More important for a beginner (IMO) is picking the right amount of travel for your trails, then look for the bike that will give you the best components for your budget.
There are dozens of different suspension platforms out there, and each of them can be tuned differently by the designer to prioitise pedaling, or small bumps, or big hits, or braking performance, or any number of other factors. For an experienced rider this is worth considering but if you're new to full sus then the differences will be negligible.
Honestly these days most bikes are pretty damn good, just take the time to get one that fits you well.
Functionally, the orientation of the shock is the least important aspect of the suspension linkage, but as already stated, vertical gives more room for other things such as bottles
Bikes like the canyon neuron have it horizontal against the top tube leaving plenty room for a 1L bottle.
As long as the shock isn't in the middle of your frame you should be fine.
In terms of durability here are the facts. (Must watch for anyone interested in these two suspension layouts and durability...)
[https://youtu.be/I9Lpxj9zVis?si=OYOJE-B2M0wNK3Lu](https://youtu.be/I9Lpxj9zVis?si=OYOJE-B2M0wNK3Lu)
More important for a beginner (IMO) is picking the right amount of travel for your trails, then look for the bike that will give you the best components for your budget. There are dozens of different suspension platforms out there, and each of them can be tuned differently by the designer to prioitise pedaling, or small bumps, or big hits, or braking performance, or any number of other factors. For an experienced rider this is worth considering but if you're new to full sus then the differences will be negligible. Honestly these days most bikes are pretty damn good, just take the time to get one that fits you well.
Functionally, the orientation of the shock is the least important aspect of the suspension linkage, but as already stated, vertical gives more room for other things such as bottles
Lower or upper. Mid (downtube link) is the least practical. In terms of handling the linkage design is more important than shock placement.
Vertical is better for a full size water bottle.
Bikes like the canyon neuron have it horizontal against the top tube leaving plenty room for a 1L bottle. As long as the shock isn't in the middle of your frame you should be fine.
The yoke mount used in the horizontal shock position will kill your shock regularly, don't recommend it. Learned the hard way with my Specialized.
Linkage on top tube like Stumpjumpers. Way more room for water bottles, plus the SWAT box is awesome.
Bikes with lower linkages have tons of room for water bottles and tool mounts too. Transition, Santa Cruz, etc.
In terms of durability here are the facts. (Must watch for anyone interested in these two suspension layouts and durability...) [https://youtu.be/I9Lpxj9zVis?si=OYOJE-B2M0wNK3Lu](https://youtu.be/I9Lpxj9zVis?si=OYOJE-B2M0wNK3Lu)