trek cross country bike

Top 13 Best XC Bikes | The best cross country mountain bikes ridden & reviewed

Wil reviews & rates the best xc mountain bikes.

Over the past five years I’ve been working at Flow, I’ve had the chance to review some of the best cross country mountain bikes on the market. From the strikingly svelte Trek Supercaliber, to the plush ‘n’ progressive Merida Ninety-Six, to the lethally lightweight Specialized Epic World Cup, we’ve tested some absolutely incredible full suspension race machines.

While all of these bikes possess their own unique strengths, quirks and on-trail personalities, together they represent a broader evolution in the sport of XC as a whole. As race courses become more technical and demanding, we’ve seen the widespread adoption of dropper posts, wider handlebars and more powerful brakes, which have helped to elevate rider confidence and control. Frame designers are employing wider chainlines to accept bigger tyres, and head angles are getting slacker to improve high-speed stability. And in the case of bikes like the Orbea Oiz, Scott Spark and Specialized Epic 8, we’re also seeing notable increases in suspension travel to deliver more traction and comfort on rougher trails.

Not only have all these improvements allowed elite athletes to ride faster and harder than ever before, they’ve also made the premise of owning a shorter travel bike all the more appealing for everyday riders. Indeed modern XC bikes are no longer the horribly dainty, overly-twitchy, crash-fests of old. Far from it. A lot of them are actually — dare we say it — fun to ride . In most cases they’re surprisingly versatile too. Many possess the ability to accommodate a longer stroke shock and a bigger fork that allows them to morph into a lightweight trail bike.

That’s all well and good, but out of all the snazzy new models we’ve been testing, which is the best? Here we’ll be taking you through the top 13 full suspension XC bikes we’ve tested, what’s impressed us, what hasn’t, and which gets our pick out of the lot.

Specialized Epic 8

• Highs: Active suspension, clever custom-tuned fork & shock, contemporary geometry, SWAT storage, lightweight & practical frame design
• Lows: S-Works model is eye-poppingly expensive, SRAM Level brakes, no alloy models

The Specialized Epic has been one of the most well-known XC bikes on the circuit since its introduction back in 2002. Built around the distinctive Brain shock, the Epic was infamous for its automated hardtail-like efficiency. The proprietary inertia valve added weight and complexity however, and it also made for quite a demanding ride quality across rough terrain.

For 2024 the Epic has received its most significant evolution yet. Not only has Specialized ditched the Brain entirely, it’s also increased suspension travel to 120mm front and rear. Combined with progressive XC geometry and an adjustable Hi/Lo flip chip, the Epic 8 is a vastly plusher and more capable descender compared to its predecessor.

It’s still quick up the climbs too thanks to its lightweight frame and clever 3-position suspension system. Featuring custom internals courtesy of RockShox, the SID fork and SIDLuxe shock offer open and lock modes, as well as an in-between Magic Middle setting that delivers a satisfyingly pert pedalling platform.

Most of the Epic models come with a TwistLoc remote to switch between the three suspension modes, though the flagship S-Works model does it automatically with the latest RockShox Flight Attendant system . It comes with a stupendously high sticker price to match, but it’s no doubt the performance benchmark when it comes to XC suspension.

There are loads of other neat features to be found on the new Epic 8 including SWAT downtube storage, a hidden steering limiter and guided internal cable routing. See our in-depth Specialized Epic 8 review for the rundown.

• Specialized Epic EVO
• Highs: Impeccable handling, smooth & capable suspension, trail-ready build kit, SWAT storage, mechanic-friendly frame furnishings
• Lows: Fox shock and dropper post issues, high starting price, no alloy models

Alongside the Epic 8 race bike, the Specialized Epic EVO is a brand new XC bike for 2024. It’s built around the same full carbon frame that features SWAT storage, a Hi/Lo geometry flip chip, threaded BB and guided internal cable routing. It also features 120mm of rear travel, but up front you’ll find a bigger 130mm travel Fox 34.

To further boost its trail credentials, Specialized gives the Epic EVO more powerful brakes, grippier tyres, and a longer stroke dropper post. The riding position is also more relaxed thanks to a shorter stem and wider handlebar.

All of that result in quite a different feel out on the trail, with the Epic EVO offering a plusher ride quality and more confidence when charging rough descents. Indeed it is remarkably capable for a 130/120mm travel bike.

The burlier component package does mean the Epic EVO is heavier, and along with the chunkier tyres it doesn’t zip up the climbs quite as effortlessly as the Epic 8 race bike. The lack of a remote lockout will also make it a turnoff to racer types.

If you’re not so serious about racing however, the Epic EVO is undoubtedly one of the most fun and capable XC bikes out there. Check out our Specialized Epic EVO review for more.

Canyon Lux Trail

• Highs: Great suspension, naturally efficient, crisp handling, clever storage solutions, top value spec throughout the range
• Lows: Not the most forgiving ride, cockpit ergonomics could be better, messy cable routing

The Canyon Lux Trail first arrived in 2021 as a slightly longer travel offshoot of the Lux race bike. To keep the costs down the two models shared an identical rear end, with the Lux Trail adopting a unique front triangle that was notably slacker and longer. Along with a 120mm travel fork and a more practical build kit, it was a clever and relatively inexpensive way to add another model to the lineup. Still, it wasn’t exactly perfect.

Addressing our previous criticisms, Canyon totally overhauled the Lux Trail for 2024. Featuring a brand new carbon frame, the Lux Trail is equipped with a 120mm travel fork and 115mm of rear travel. It’s also the first Canyon mountain bike to feature internal storage. The hatch is well executed too, and we like the optional multi-tool that sits in a dedicated mount underneath the top tube.

The practical approach extends to the threaded BB and tool-free thru-axles, but not quite to the cable routing. The main control lines pass through the headset, making for quite the nest in front of the bars. Given how efficient the Lux Trail is, we reckon Canyon could have easily ditched the remote lockout in favour of a tidier setup and better ergonomics for the dropper post lever.

Those complaints aside, the Lux Trail is a fantastic performer out on the trail. It is heavier than the Lux World Cup, but it’s still terrifically agile through twisty singletrack. You can also push it a lot harder on the descents thanks to the smoother suspension and long-stroke dropper post, making it a load of fun to ride on technical terrain. See the full story in our Canyon Lux Trail review .

Cervelo ZFS-5

• Highs: Beautifully smooth ride quality, plush & poppy suspension, lightweight but practical frame, superb spec package
• Lows: 100mm XC builds don’t come with a dropper post, headset cable routing may be a turn off for some

Although the ZFS-5 is Cervelo’s first ever full suspension mountain bike, the roadie brand was able to get a solid head start by drawing on the valuable experience of its sister brand Santa Cruz.

Indeed the ZFS-5 shares much of its DNA with the Blur, though it’s worth noting that they are two separate bikes. The ZFS-5 has been built around its own unique carbon frame that’s claimed to be one of the lightest on the market at just 1,718g. It also features different geometry with our test bike sporting a devilishly slack 66.6° head angle.

You can get the ZFS-5 in two distinct flavours. There’s a flat-out XC race bike with 100/100mm of travel, and a more versatile trail bike with 120/115mm of travel. The frame is identical between the two, with a longer-stroke shock and fork switching up the vibe.

Even in its longer travel guise, we found the ZFS-5 to offer neutral pedalling performance that responds surprisingly well to hard efforts. The lithe chassis makes it a pleasure to climb with, and the modern geometry means it’s terrifically well-balanced across a variety of trail types. Add in the excellent build package along with the plush and poppy suspension, and you’ve got an absolutely ripping XC bike that’s a whole lot of fun to ride. See our Cervelo ZFS-5 review for everything you need to know.

Trek Supercaliber

• Highs: Striking frame design, powerful pedalling performance, responsive handling, contemporary build kit
• Lows: Short travel is less forgiving on really rough trails, shock servicing and tuning are more involved, expensive

Easily one of the most striking XC bikes on the market, the Trek Supercaliber has been completely redesigned for 2023. Trek has introduced two new frames that feature updated geometry, an increase in travel and a totally new IsoStrut shock that’s now manufactured by RockShox instead of Fox.

You’ll still find the distinctive IsoStrut suspension platform out back, though rear travel has been increased to 80mm to provide more grip and comfort. Despite this, the Supercaliber retains its incredible pedalling efficiency thanks to a higher main pivot that boosts anti-squat. There’s a dual remote lockout at the handlebar, but it’s really not necessary for the rear suspension since it’s so responsive under power.

Descending performance has also improved due to a slacker 67.5° head angle, a longer wheelbase, and a 110mm travel fork. Almost every Supercaliber model comes standard with 2.4in tyres and a dropper post too, which is fantastic to see.

It’s still not the most forgiving bike on really rough terrain, especially compared to 120mm travel bikes like the Spark and Oiz. I also wasn’t impressed with the cockpit ergonomics on our SLR 9.8 GX AXS test bike, and the nest of cables in front of the handlebar is messy compared to the much cleaner Epic World Cup.

There’s no denying its razor-sharp handling and explosive pedalling performance however, which successfully splits the difference between a hardtail and traditional full suspension bike. Check out our Trek Supercaliber review for the full story.

• Highs: Lightweight and elegant frame design, superb geometry, plush and on-the-fly adaptable suspension, lots of spec options including alloy models
• Lows: Headset cable routing, not the quietest bike, limited clearance for 2nd bottle

Whereas the previous Orbea Oiz was available in both 100mm and 120mm travel variants that utilised the same chassis, the latest Oiz is now purpose-built around 120mm of travel front and rear. This commitment has allowed Orbea to optimise the geometry and bring it right up to date. Along with the increased travel and the fact that it comes with 2.4in tyres and a dropper post as standard, the Oiz is one of the most fun and capable XC bikes out there.

It’s still incredibly light, with the top-end OMX carbon frame claimed to weigh just 1,750g including the shock. It’s also impressively quick up the climbs thanks to its efficient pedalling manners and remote-activated suspension.

The Squidlock remote isn’t perfect, though it is plenty functional with the Medium suspension mode firming up the rear shock’s damping while leaving the fork entirely open. This helps to steepen the angles and lift the BB, providing a terrific technical climbing mode that maintains front-end compliance over rocky and rooty terrain. It also sharpens up the steering when you’re speeding along flowy singletrack. If you’re keen to know how it rides, see our full Orbea Oiz review .

Specialized Epic World Cup

• Highs: Exceptional automated efficiency, superb geometry, tuneable shock, clutter-free cockpit, very lightweight, dual bottle ready
• Lows: Ride can be unrelenting when not at race pace, Brain fork is jarring on rocky terrain, proprietary shock is yet to be proven in the mass market, expensive

A brand new model for 2023, the Specialized Epic World Cup is the result of a 4-year project to build the ultimate XC race bike that combines the responsiveness of a hardtail, with the big-hit control of a conventional full suspension bike.

To achieve this lofty goal, Specialized ditched the Brain damper and collaborated with RockShox to build a new SIDLuxe WCID shock. Instead of an inertia valve, the new shock utilises a clever air spring design that allows you to tune the negative chamber independently of the positive spring. The result is a tuneable package that delivers hardtail-like acceleration in its firmest setting.

The proprietary shock delivers just 75mm of rear travel, and that’s paired to a custom RockShox SID SL fork with 110mm of travel and an updated Brain damper. It’s all built around a new carbon fibre chassis that is claimed to be one of the lightest on the market.

While rear travel is conservative, geometry is very progressive with a 66.5° head angle and a hefty 58mm BB drop. It all adds up to create a responsive and highly involving bike to ride, though one that prefers to be pushed hard and fast to get the most out of it. With this in mind, riders who prefer a plusher ride quality and are after a more versatile XC bike will be better off looking at the longer travel Epic EVO .

But if you value outright efficiency, the Epic World Cup is one of the best on the market while offering a stupendously clean cockpit with no lockout to worry about. Get the full story in our Specialized Epic World Cup review .

Canyon Lux World Cup

• Highs: Organic pedal efficiency, precise handling, high-tech bearings, dual bottle ready, very appealing spec for the money
• Lows: Racy suspension feel won’t suit all tastes, headset cable routing, fork feels under-gunned, no dropper

Sitting alongside the slightly longer travel Lux Trail , the Canyon Lux World Cup is the purebred race machine of the two. It’s equipped with 100mm of travel and a new carbon frame that Canyon claims to be one of the lightest on the market.

The updated geometry has paid dividends on the trail, with the Lux World Cup offering improved balance and stability at speed over its predecessor. It ties in well with its race-tuned chassis and suspension, which provides outstanding pedal efficiency and responsive handling through tight singletrack.

Given how hard you can push the stout frame, the Fox 32 SC does feel somewhat under-gunned up front. We’re also surprised that Canyon doesn’t offer any of the Lux World Cup models with a dropper post. Combined with the firm suspension tune, the Lux World Cup isn’t as plush or as confidence-inspiring on rough terrain as more contemporary bikes like the Scott Spark or Merida Ninety-Six.

With that in mind, those chasing more of an XC all-rounder should check out the Lux Trail instead. If you’re after a lightweight, agile and deadly efficient race bike though, you’d be hard pressed to find anything that packs in the same level of features and spec for the money as this. See our Canyon Lux World Cup review for the lowdown on the stock bike, though if you’re curious about what’s possible with a few spec changes, check out my long-term review for a deep-dive into the true capabilities of the Lux World Cup.

Scott Spark RC

• Highs: Progressive geometry, plush and traction-rich suspension, versatile chassis, split-personality TwinLoc system
• Lows: Reliant on remote for pedalling efficiency, headset cable routing adds maintenance frustration, noisy frame

The latest Scott Spark made quite the impression when it launched in 2021. Replacing what was perhaps the most successful XC bike on the market, the 4th generation Spark dropped jaws thanks to its high-tech carbon frame and cleverly hidden rear shock. Featuring an updated TwinLoc remote, the Spark also introduced envelope-pushing geometry with adjustable headset cups. It also pushed the envelope with its suspension, extending travel out to 120mm at both ends — a genre-defining statement for World Cup-level XC race bikes.

Despite all the advancements, the Spark still relies on a handlebar remote and two cables to control its suspension. You’ll need to use the remote a lot to get the most out of it too, since the pedalling performance is deliberately soft and drivetrain-neutral in the full travel ‘Descend’ position. If you’re not a fan of remotes, then the Spark won’t be the bike for you.

If you’re happy to flip levers though, and you can live with the internal cable routing through the headset, the Spark offers adaptable performance that makes it both a brilliant technical climber and a fun descender. The plush suspension and low-hanging BB allows you to rip through turns, providing traction and comfort in situations that can scare lesser bikes. It really is impressive, and it all adds up to create one of the most capable XC race bikes we’ve ever tested. Get the full story in our Scott Spark RC review .

Giant Anthem

• Highs: Very lightweight frame, fantastic all-round handling, updated Live Valve is brilliant for XC racing, near-faultless contemporary build kit, nice cable routing
• Lows: Our original test frame cracked, Live Valve adds complexity and clutter, single bottle only

As one of the most popular and long-standing XC bikes on the market, the Giant Anthem underwent a wholesale redesign back in 2022. Moving away from its classic Maestro suspension design in favour of a simpler single pivot arrangement, the new Anthem frame has shed a hefty amount of weight and now stands as one of the lightest options on the market.

While weight has gone down, suspension travel has gone up by 10mm. There’s now 100mm of rear travel that’s paired to 110mm travel Fox 34 SC or RockShox SID. You’ll also find a dropper post and 2.4in Maxxis WT tyres on each model, as well as longer reach measurements and a contemporary 67.5° head angle.

Though most Anthems come with a manual remote lockout, our test bike came fitted with the Fox Live Valve system. The electric wires add clutter to the cockpit, and an external battery pack protrudes from the underside of the top tube. The overall packaging also means the Anthem is one of the few new XC bikes on the market that won’t fit two bottles.

That aside we’ve been mighty impressed with the performance of the Live Valve system, which offers a smoother but still lightning-fast transition between Open and Firm settings. It’s especially advantageous for XC racing where its firm platform delivers stompable efficiency, while giving you access to plush and active suspension on the descents. No need to toggle remote lockouts, just focus on the trail ahead. To hear about our long-term experience, check out our Giant Anthem review for more.

Merida Ninety-Six RC

• Highs: New-school geometry, sensitive suspension performance, excellent spec for the money, dual bottle capability
• Lows: Not the snappiest pedaler, not officially compatible with 2.4in tyres, inconsistent TwistLoc remote, headset cable routing adds servicing complexity

The Merida Ninety-Six arrived in late 2020 with a new carbon frame, an updated suspension design and 100mm of rear travel. It’s available in two variants, with the Ninety-Six RC getting a 100mm travel fork, faster tyres and a more race-focussed build kit.

Unlike many XC bikes, the Ninety-Six features a non-proprietary rear shock, which is appealing from a long-term ownership perspective. Also appealing is the fact that you can get a Ninety-Six for less than $6K, which is almost unheard of these days in the world of carbon full suspension race bikes.

The updated frame has room for two bottles, and features a neat accessory mount underneath the top tube. The otherwise practical approach is somewhat tarnished by the use of internal routing through the headset though, which gives moisture and dirt more opportunities to penetrate the bearings. The TwistLoc remote isn’t the tidiest solution, and the unit on our test bike proved to be frustratingly inconsistent.

Thankfully there have been big improvements to the geometry and suspension performance of the Ninety-Six RC. The simple flex-stay arrangement has dropped weight, while also bolstering lateral rigidity. While hardcore hammerers may find the rear suspension to be a little sensitive under power, there’s excellent traction on offer. The progressive linkage also delivers terrific big-hit control, which in combination with the solid chassis and sorted geometry, sees the Ninety-Six RC inspiring a load of confidence on technical trails at racing speeds. See our Merida Ninety-Six RC review for everything you need to know.

Merida Ninety-Six 8000

• Highs: Poppy & playful ride quality, confidence-inspiring geometry, plush suspension, masses of traction, awesome value for money
• Lows: Aggressive rubber tempers rolling speed, not officially compatible with 2.4in tyres, headset cable routing, remote lockout adds clutter

Alongside the racier Ninety-Six RC, the standard Merida Ninety-Six models actually feature the same full carbon frame with 100mm of rear travel. Where things differ is with the fork, which increases the travel to 120mm and slackens the head angle out to 67° for improved descending stability. Along with burlier tyres and bigger brakes, the Ninety-Six 8000 amps up the capability for riding more technical terrain.

It still incorporates many of the same features that we love about the Ninety-Six RC. The frame will accommodate two bottles for proper long-distance trail rides, and we like the tiny integrated chainguide. It’s great to see Merida including a proper-length dropper post, along with a nifty multi-tool that hides underneath the saddle.

Unfortunately the same downsides also carry over, with the headset cable routing being our main bugbear. And given that Merida has the Ninety-Six RC as the race bike, we reckon it could have done without the remote lockout on the regular Ninety-Six models to help declutter the cockpit.

That doesn’t take away from the fact that the Ninety-Six 8000 is an absolutely belting ride out on the trail. The suspension is supple over small chatter and beautifully supported on bigger wallops, while the aggressive rubber delivers masses of grip on loose terrain. Paired to the stout carbon frame and slackened geometry, this bike is a lightweight pocket rocket that rides well beyond its short travel platform. Read about our experience in the Merida Ninety-Six 8000 review .

Cannondale Scalpel

• Highs: Progressive and traction-rich suspension, smooth pedalling performance, precise and plush Lefty Ocho, dual bottle option, STASH tool system
• Lows: Not the firmest bike under power, proprietary fork and PF30 BB will be a turnoff for some, no dropper post on complete bikes

As the oldest bike in our list, the latest Cannondale Scalpel arrived back in early 2020 just as the world started to implode from the Covid-19 pandemic. Representing the 8th generation of Cannondale’s flagship full suspension race bike, the Scalpel employs a novel approach for its chainstays with a solid leaf-spring section just forward of the dropouts. This allows the suspension to behave like a conventional four-bar linkage, albeit with less weight and improved lateral rigidity.

On the trail the Scalpel is impressively smooth for a 100mm travel XC race bike, delivering excellent traction and uninterrupted pedalling performance over rough terrain. It’s also nicely progressive with plenty of big-hit support, though like the Merida Ninety-Six, the sensitive rear suspension may feel a little soft to some. This can be solved by running less sag for a firmer feel, or simply using the dual lockout for out-of-the-saddle sprinting.

Long distance riders will appreciate the option to carry two bottles, and the integrated STASH tool system is excellent. Less appealing is the PF30 bottom bracket and proprietary A.I drivetrain offset.

The Lefty Ocho is equally divisive, but while the long 55mm rake results in a tight trail figure for insanely quick steering response, its needle-bearing internals and triangular slider means it is exceptionally stout and very sensitive under load. Indeed the difference was abundantly clear when we back-to-back tested it with a conventional Fox fork. Get all the details in our Cannondale Scalpel review .

What else is out there?

Of course our XC bike group test is far from being exhaustive, as there are plenty of other full suspension race bikes on the market that we’re yet to review.

Some notable absentees include the BMC Fourstroke, Mondraker F-Podium and Ibis Exie, though these are admittedly bikes that we don’t see a lot of here in Australia. I did recently get the chance to swing a leg over the new Pivot Mach 4 SL and came away thoroughly impressed, and we’re hoping to tee up a bike locally for a proper long-term test so that I can include it in this list.

We’ll continue to add new options as and when we get our hands on them, and we’d love to hear from you about what bikes you’d like to see us review next. And if there are any brands out there reading this that want us to test out their bike, feel free to get in touch!

What’s the lightest XC bike?

Of course any discussion about XC racing wouldn’t be complete without talking about weight. For those who are hunting grams, you may be wondering; what’s the lightest XC bike out there?

In all of our bike reviews you’ll find a confirmed weight, which is taken with the tyres set up tubeless and with no pedals installed. However, since we’re not always testing bikes at the same price point (we’ll often receive whatever model is available at the time), those weights aren’t really comparable. Also, some XC bikes are still sold without a dropper post, which obviously tilts the weight balance in their favour.

For those reasons, it’s no surprise that the Canyon Lux World Cup CFR Team is the lightest XC bike in this list at 10.22kg. The heaviest bike is the 12.1kg Specialized Epic EVO Pro, though it does feature more travel, a full-length dropper post and much more aggressive tyres.

Frame weights

Where things get a little easier to compare is frame weight. Shown below are the claimed weights from each manufacturer, which is for a frame with the rear shock and basic hardware;

• Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup – 1,712g
• Cervelo ZFS-5 – 1,718g
• Giant Anthem Advanced Pro – 1,735g
• Specialized S-Works Epic 8 – 1,795g
• Orbea Oiz OMX – 1,798g
• Scott Spark HMX SL – 1,870g
• Canyon Lux World Cup CFR – 1,894g
• Cannondale Scalpel Hi-Mod – 1,910g
• Santa Cruz Blur 4 – 1,933g
• Trek Supercaliber SLR – 1,950g
• Specialized Epic EVO – 1,965g
• Merida Ninety-Six RC – 2,064g
• Pivot Mach 4 SL – 2,087g
• Canyon Lux Trail CFR – 2,104g

Coming in at just 1,712g for the S-Works frame and shock, the Specialized Epic World Cup is currently the lightest full suspension frame in our list.

However, since these claimed weights are from the manufacturers it’s important to take them with a pinch of salt. It’s not always clear whether a listed weight is for a painted frame, or even for what size. Often chainstay protectors and cable ports are omitted, and many brands regularly leave out the rear thru-axle.

As for confirmed weights, I have had the opportunity to strip a couple of test bikes down to see how close they were to the manufacturers claims. Listed below are the weights for the frame, shock and key hardware, but no thru-axle;

• Giant Anthem – 1,807g (w/Fox Float DPS)
• Canyon Lux World Cup CFR – 1,941g (w/Fox Float DPS)
• Specialized S-Works Epic 8 – 1,950g (w/RockShox SIDLuxe)

Both the Anthem and Lux World Cup are pretty close to their published figures, though the Epic 8 is 155g heavier than Specialized’s claimed weight. Part of this delta is due to the paint job on our test bike and the downtube protector, which you can read about in more detail in the S-Works Epic 8 review .

So which is the best XC bike out of the lot?

Out of the twelve options in our list, which is the best XC bike we’ve tested? Which bike should you choose?

Honestly, I’ve been impressed with the performance of all of these bikes. And really the answer to the above question is going to come down to what your priorities are.

Most efficient

For those who value maximum efficiency, the Trek Supercaliber and Specialized Epic World Cup are the most efficient XC bikes we’ve tested. These short travel specialists really are a sprinter’s dream, allowing you to forget about remote lockouts so you can concentrate on the trail ahead. I personally prefer the clean cockpit and tuneable shock on the Epic World Cup, though it’s worth noting that set up is simpler on the purposeful Supercaliber, and for many folks its dual-lockout will be a must-have. Regardless, each option does a bang-up job of splitting the difference between a hardtail and a traditional full suspension bike, albeit at a very high price.

Most versatile

If you’re after more comfort and capability, the Canyon Lux Trail, Orbea Oiz, Scott Spark and Specialized Epic EVO are no doubt the most versatile XC bikes in our list. These have all committed to bigger forks and longer travel platforms, and that gives them more grip on technical climbs, along with a smoother and calmer ride on the descents.

The Epic EVO is the burliest and heaviest of the lot, and the fact that it doesn’t have a remote lockout system will be a turn off for the racer crowd. A lighter and faster-rolling set of tyres would be an easy way to inject a bit of extra speed for the occasional event, but overall this is a bike that prioritises fun over racing. For all-round XC ripping, the Epic EVO is my pick of the bunch.

In comparison, the Lux Trail, Oiz and Spark are very much race-ready out of the box thanks to their 3-position remote suspension systems. However, they all come with highly integrated cockpits that I find less appealing from a maintenance perspective. When it comes to outright versatility, it’s the Spark that takes the cake with its adjustable head angle and the ability to fit a longer travel fork.

If it’s bang for buck you’re after, then you’d struggle to look past the Canyon Lux World Cup and Merida Ninety-Six. These are the best value XC bikes we’ve tested, offering great spec options for the money whether you want to source your new bike online through Canyon or buy a Merida from your local bike shop. On the trail these two bikes do ride quite differently, with the Lux World Cup being closer to the Supercaliber and Epic World Cup thanks to its business-like handling and efficient pedalling manners. The Ninety-Six is plusher and more progressive, giving it a fun-filled ride quality that puts it closer to the Oiz and Spark.

Best overall

The three bikes that manage to balance all of those attributes without going over-the-top with integration and proprietary components are the Giant Anthem, Cervelo ZFS-5 and Specialized Epic 8. These are all terrific examples of a modern XC bike, featuring excellent geometry and traction-seeking suspension, while also featuring some of the lightest frames on the market.

You’ll find contemporary build kits and great value for money across the Giant Anthem range, though some folks may be put off by its single bottle capacity and press-fit BB. The Cervelo ZFS-5 is more practical in that regard thanks to its well-considered frame design that’s finished to an incredibly high level. It rides beautifully too, and I particularly enjoyed testing the 120/115mm travel version. Indeed for those who aren’t fussed by remote lockouts, it’s an absolute scorcher.

The best XC bike

Just edging it out for top spot is the brilliant Specialized Epic 8. It’s a better descender with more supportive suspension, a slacker head angle and longer wheelbase, though it still scampers up technical climbs thanks to the custom-tuned RockShox dampers. The nifty SWAT storage is also really well executed and gives the Epic 8 proper all-day appeal.

Very few riders will be able to afford the flagship S-Works model, but if you can then you’ll be getting your hands on the best XC bike that money can buy. Personally I’d be looking towards the cheaper Comp or Expert models, which incorporate many of the same features at a drastically lower price point.

Flow’s Verdict

So there you have it folks – those are the top 13 best XC bikes that we’ve tested here at Flow!

As mentioned earlier, this isn’t an exhaustive list. As we test more bikes however, we’ll be adding them here so that we can compare them directly with the competition.

What this ongoing test series has made abundantly clear is that modern XC bikes are getting really bloody good. All of these bikes have impressed us in one way or another, and their unique personalities and quirks will make them appealing to different riders.

If getting a new bike isn’t in your current budget, then consider checking out our article on the top 8 upgrades for your XC bike . There may actually be a few modifications you can make to your existing bike to level-up its performance and capabilities, while helping to scratch that new bike itch.

Bikes tested

• Specializerd Epic 8
• Canyon Lux Trail Review
• Cervelo ZFS-5 Review
• Trek Supercaliber Review
• Specialized Epic World Cup Review
• Orbea Oiz Review
• Canyon Lux World Cup Review
• Scott Spark RC Review
• Giant Anthem Review
• Merida Ninety-Six Review
• Merida Ninety-Six 8000 Review
• Cannondale Scalpel Review
• Submit for Review
• Terms & Conditions

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Results have arrived, the 13 best xc-cross-country mountain bikes 2022: singletrack mtb speeders.

To cross the finish line first, beat your own PRs, or just explore local trails, you want a fast cross-country MTB by your side. For those who live to pedal, these are the best XC bikes around.

Written by: Bruce Lin

Published on: Apr 6, 2022

Posted in: Bikes

There exists a special breed of mountain biker, whose M.O. is to cover ground as quickly as possible. These riders crush climbs, blast down flow trails, and sometimes, they even wear lycra (though it’s not required!). Their weapon of choice? The cross-country (a.k.a. XC) bike. These hardtail and full-suspension trail missiles are designed to keep weight low and speed high. For riders who love to pedal hard and explore faraway trails, these are the XC bikes they need to keep on their radar. 

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Best XC-Cross Country Hardtail Mountain Bikes

For minimal weight and maximum efficiency, nothing beats the XC hardtail. The rigid rear end makes sure every watt goes from the pedals into the ground. They are perfect for less technical trails, flow trails, and rides that mix in fire roads, gravel, and even some pavement. These are our favorite fast hardtails.

Specialized Epic HT

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Specialized replaced its long-running Stumpjumper Hardtail with the new Epic Hardtail in 2017, which takes its name from the brand’s ultra-successful full-suspension XC bike. Weight weenies loved it because, at the time of its release, the 895-gram Epic HT frame was the lightest frame Specialized had ever produced, road or mountain. In 2020, it received a geometry update with a slacker head tube to enhance its downhill capabilities. 

Trek Procaliber

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Trek took a traditional hardtail and added extra comfort with its IsoSpeed Decoupler technology to create the Procaliber. First used on the Domane endurance bike, IsoSpeed fully decouples the seat tube from the top tube. A set of bearings and elastomers allow the seat tube to flex independently so it can absorb bumps and vibration without the extra weight of rear suspension. 

Cannondale F-Si / Scalpel HT

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Supposedly, “F-Si” means "For those with Serious Issues.” It’s a joke, but it gets at the core of what the Cannondale F-Si is all about. XC racers obsess over having the most efficient, agile, and lightest race bike possible. They’re the type to ride the F-Si. Its party piece is Cannondale’s distinctive single-sided Lefty Ocho fork . For 2022, the F-Si was replaced by the Scalpel HT, which has dropped seat stays and a slacker head tube angle.

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With the DV9, Ibis wanted to create an affordable cross-country hardtail for racers on a budget. But just because it’s affordable, doesn’t mean it’s a slouch. It has a lightweight carbon frame with clearance for wide 2.6” tires. It’s compatible with 100mm-120mm forks and has a nice, slack 68.5-degree head tube angle that makes it easy to transition from fast and flat short track races to steep and gnarly downhills. 

Specialized Chisel

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Carbon fiber isn’t for everyone, and some just prefer aluminum . You can pretty much think of the Specialized Chisel as a slightly slacker aluminum version of the Epic HT. To increase stiffness and strength while reducing overall weight, the frame uses the same D'aluisio Smartweld technology found on Specialized’s ultra-popular Allez Sprint. The Chisel is perfect for a budget race rig or newer XC riders building their skills. 

Best XC Full-Suspension Mountain Bikes

XC racing has evolved over the last decade, favoring gnarlier courses with technical features and big descents. To keep up, modern full-suspension XC bikes have taken geometry cues from trail and enduro bikes, while maintaining efficient pedaling platforms for uphill assaults. Full-suspension bikes provide more traction and comfort on rough trails. Here are our favorite fast full suspensions.   

BMC Fourstroke 

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In the cross-country world, the BMC Fourstroke is kind of a big deal right now. It’s the bike of choice for multi-time XC world champion Pauline Ferrand-Prévot, and most recently, it was piloted to Olympic Gold by rising star, Tom Pidcock. The Fourstroke is pretty progressive too, with long and slack geometry for tackling downhills, and a sleek BMC RAD integrated dropper post that looks like a standard seatpost. 

Trek Supercaliber

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The Supercaliber is Trek’s lightest, most efficient full-suspension XC bike, and it too recently won Olympic Gold under Jolanda Neff. It uses Trek’s unique IsoStrut suspension system with a frame-integrated shock that provides 60mm of travel. That is just enough to take the edge off bumps and harsh impacts while maintaining hardtail-level weight, stiffness, and efficiency. It’s the perfect compromise for those torn between a hardtail and a full-suspension bike. 

Scott Spark RC

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The Scott Spark is a modern XC legend thanks to the exploits of Nino Schurter, current world champion and one of the greatest XC racers of all time, and his teammates, Kate Courtney and Lars Forster. The Spark received a massive overhaul in 2022, switching to Bold’s hidden-shock suspension with 120mm of travel, but the previous generation 100mm bike is still a threat in any race and perfect for riders not ready to commit to a new school 120mm bike. 

Specialized Epic

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No list of XC bikes would be complete without the Specialized Epic, one of the most popular and successful XC race bikes of all time. The Epic’s suspension uses Specialized’s proprietary Brain damper. An inertia damper keeps the suspension stiff and efficient for pedaling but during impacts, it opens up instantly to allow the suspension to move. This means you never have to think about locking and unlocking the suspension while riding.

Cannondale Scalpel

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Cannondale’s Scalpel has been in production for nearly 20 years and it has always prioritized low weight and efficient rear suspension. Of course, the Scalpel also comes equipped with Cannondale’s trademark single-sided Lefty fork , which really helps it stand out from the crowd. It’s not all for show though. The Lefty’s unique design provides more fore-aft stiffness than traditional forks so you can charge harder into technical terrain. 

Canyon Lux CF

The Canyon Lux is all about efficiency and agility, and its 100mm of travel is stiff and well-controlled so the bike leaps forward whenever you get on the gas. Of the bikes listed here, it has the steepest and most traditional geometry numbers, so it will appeal to riders who want their mountain bike to fit and feel like their road or cyclocross bike. That’s exactly why Mathieu van der Poel chose to ride the Lux to his multiple World Cup victories.  

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The Orbea Oiz (pronounced like “Oy-eth”) was developed in the mountainous Basque Country in Northern Spain. It features a rear shock that is neatly recessed into the top tube to create a sleek silhouette and free up space to fit two water bottles. It also has an impressive race pedigree with several World Cup XC wins and a win at BC Bike Race. For riders who are a bit more downhill-focused, the Oiz TR beefs things up with 120mm of travel front and rear.  

Santa Cruz Blur

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Santa Cruz doesn’t just make downhill-shredding freeride, enduro, and trail bikes. The Blur brings Santa Cruz attitude to the XC world, and it’s sure to appeal to the cool kids on the trail. The first generation Blur used Santa Cruz’s tried and true VPP suspension system. Then in 2022, it got updated to the same single-pivot flex stay system seen on nearly every other bike on this list. Either way, the Blur is a bike that goes fast uphill and shreds back down. 

I’ve had the pleasure of riding most of the bikes on this list. Among my favorites have been the Santa Cruz Blur, Cannondale F-Si, and Orbea Oiz. I’m currently riding a Specialized Epic (albeit the Evo version ) and absolutely loving it. For my future bike, I’m incredibly curious about the Trek Supercaliber. I often find myself wishing I could own both a hardtail and a full suspension, but I don’t have the space or funds. The Supercaliber could be the perfect solution because it manages to split the difference. Ultimately, if your goal is to beat your personal bests out on the trail, you can’t go wrong with any of these bikes. 

Which XC bike would you choose? Or do you think there’s some other XC bike that belongs on this list instead? Let me know in the comments!

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Best cross-country mountain bikes 2024 | 13 top-rated XC mountain bikes and our buyer's guide

The top cross-country bikes as rated by our expert reviewers, plus our buyer's guide for everything you need to know

Andy Lloyd / Our Media

Joe Norledge

Cross-country is one of the most exciting disciplines within mountain biking. Races are often close, with elbow-to-elbow action right until the line, and the best cross-country mountain bikes combine everything we love about mountain biking – riding fast, uphill and downhill.

Cross-country mountain bike technology has advanced quickly in the last few years. Cross-country bikes are now lighter, faster and more capable than ever, while many cross-country race tracks have become more demanding at the same time.

If you’re thinking about buying a cross-country bike, then read on for our pick of the best bikes reviewed by our expert testers.

We’ve also put together a buyer's guide so you can learn everything you need to know about cross-country bikes at the end of this article .

If you’re tempted to start riding competitively, we’ve got a separate beginner's guide to cross-country racing .

Best cross-country mountain bikes 2024, as rated by our expert testers

Lapierre prorace cf 9.9.

• Fast, fun, comfortable and good value
• Frame compliance adds speed
• £5,999 / €6,799 as tested

The Prorace is Lapierre's top-end carbon race hardtail and uses its 3D Tubular concept that the brand has employed on its road bikes since 2015 to boost compliance. This is effectively a triple-triangle design, which sees the seatstays separated from the seat tube.

We found this really helped when climbing because the frame reduces the amount the bike skips and slips around and it smoothes out the trail when descending, too. That said, don't expect it to tame the trails to the extent of a full-suspension bike.

The Prorace handles well and the geometry gives it a fun and engaging ride, even if it's not the most progressive.

This SRAM-heavy build features a RockShox SID SL Ultimate fork up front, a wireless AXS drivetrain and a set of Level TLM brakes.

We really rate the Maxxis Rekon Race tyres, their low-profile, densely packed tread rolling fast on smooth surfaces, balanced with their suppleness.

• Read our full Lapierre Prorace CF 9.9 review

Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2

• Direct feel with capable geometry
• One-piece bar and stem plus narrow tyres
• £10,800 as tested

The Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 is a thoroughbred cross-country race bike, delivering razor-sharp handling and a direct feel under power. 

With its IsoStrut rear shock partially hidden in the top tube, the Supercaliber is intended to offer the efficiency of a hardtail with the comfort of rear suspension.

Pair this with the updated and more capable geometry and you have a bike that balances efficiency and composure. 

If you want a top-spec race bike for more demanding trails, the Supercaliber would be a great choice, but you might want to swap in some wider tyres. 

• Read our full Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 review

Vitus Rapide FS CRX

• Balanced modern geometry and smooth suspension
• Excellent spec for the money
• £3,999.99 as tested

Vitus’ Rapide FS CRX is a great performing full-suspension cross-country bike that packs a punch with its value-for-money spec.

The unidirectional carbon frame utilises a four-bar linkage system and a flexstay design to deliver 100mm of suspension travel.

One look at the geometry sheet tells us Vitus has drawn from its experience in the trail and enduro market for the Rapide’s design – the reach comes in at 500mm in size large. The head angle, at 67 degrees, is also rather slack and the 77-degree effective seat tube is bang on trend.

The Vitus is decked out with some of the best components on the market, including a RockShox SID SL Ultimate fork and Shimano XT brakes.

On the trail, the Vitus Rapide FS CRX is quick to pick up speed and efficient under power. Pointed downhill, the capable suspension and geometry make for a confidence-inspiring ride.

• Read our full Vitus Rapide FS CRX review

YT Izzo Uncaged 7

• A riot of a descender that still climbs like the best of them
• Makes the most of YT’s signature value for money
• £6,299 / $6,499 as tested

With the Izzo, German direct-to-consumer brand YT has entered the world of XC with a bang.

Packing 120mm of suspension controlled by a four-bar linkage, the Izzo Uncaged 7’s carbon frame also features adjustable geometry.

A flip chip offers 0.4 degrees of adjustment to the head and seat tube angles and a 5mm bottom bracket height adjustment, enabling riders to set their bike up to suit a variety of trails.

The Izzo’s geometry is very progressive, with a 66.5-degree head angle and 77.5-degree effective seat tube angle in the slack setting. The reach comes in at 475mm in size large.

As we’ve come to expect from YT, the spec offers incredible value for money. The Izzo is equipped with top-of-the-line RockShox SID and SIDLuxe Ultimate suspension, SRAM G2 Ultimate brakes and a wireless XX1 AXS drivetrain.

On the descents, the YT’s balanced suspension and capable geometry make it a riot to ride fast and it comfortably takes on trails well above its pay grade.

Despite packing more travel than most other XC bikes, the Izzo also excels on the climbs, offering a supportive pedalling platform and fast-rolling performance.

• Read our full YT Izzo Uncaged 7 review

BMC Fourstroke 01 Two AXS

• Decent geometry and an eager climber
• Great suspension feel
• £8,300 / $8,999 / €8,499 as tested

BMC’s Fourstroke piloted Tom Pidcock to Olympic Gold . On our trails, it made for a fairly poised race-ready ripper.

The Fourstroke’s geometry is up-to-date and it climbs with near-impeccable pedalling manners. It pumps through rolling terrain well and the bike eggs you on to accelerate and push yourself towards your limits on a wide variety of trails.

The SRAM GX Eagle AXS drivetrain performed flawlessly and the Fox suspension package felt supple.

However, it does require a tyre change to fully unlock its potential because the stock Vittoria Barzo tyres made the ride feel nervous and skittery. We’re not fully sold on BMC’s RAD integrated dropper seatpost, but admittedly it looks aesthetically pleasing.

• Read our full BMC Fourstroke 01 Two AXS review

Cannondale Scalpel HT Carbon 4

• Impressive all-round capability
• Good spec for the price tag
• £2,600 / $2,300 as tested

The Scalpel HT Carbon 4 is the most affordable bike in the Scalpel line-up, aimed at the gnarlier end of cross-country.

Cannondale has evolved the typical XC race geometry by offering slacker head angles, giving the Scalpel HT handling character similar to an enduro bike. Steeper seat tube angles retain climbing ability and we were impressed by the traction provided by the zones in the rear triangle.

The Scalpel HT Carbon 4 features a RockShox SID SL fork and uses both Shimano XT and Deore drivetrain and brake components.

• Read our full Cannondale HT Carbon 4 review

Giant Anthem Advanced Pro 29 1

• Excellent modern geometry
• Agile yet confident handling
• £6,999 / $7,500 / AU$9,099 as tested

The Giant Anthem saw a refresh in late 2021 with updated geometry, a longer 110mm-travel suspension fork, and flexible seatstays and chainstay to simulate the articulation of a pivot point.

This particular model uses the Fox Live Valve suspension system . The system has electronic link sensors on the fork and frame, which automatically open and close the fork and shock’s compression circuit when a bump is detected.

With its modern geometry, the bike climbs reasonably well, although there is some bob. Heading downhill, the bike feels stable and secure over loose surfaces with supple suspension (Live Valve settings-dependent).

The Anthem is equipped with a Shimano XT drivetrain and brakes, which offer next-to-identical performance to Shimano XTR. The bike has own-brand carbon wheels and handlebars.

• Read our full Giant Anthem Advanced Pro 29 1 review

Intense Sniper XC Expert

• Composed on climbs and descents
• A carbon-everything frameset
• £3,699 as tested

Although Intense is best known for its gravity-oriented bikes, the Sniper XC has an engaging ride quality that’s fast around a cross-country race course.

The geometry is nice and modern, with a long 468mm reach and a 67.5-degree head tube angle, which is slack for a cross-country bike.

The Sniper climbs well, bearing in mind there is no remote lockout. There is some pedal bob though, especially when sprinting.

The bike descends assuredly, offering a smooth ride on rough descents while maintaining stiffness.

Shimano’s third-tier SLX drivetrain performs excellently, as does the Fox Performance suspension. The bike comes with a dropper seatpost.

• Read our full Intense Sniper XC Expert review

Merida Ninety-Six RC 9000

• A classic-feeling race bike with inspired handling manners
• Solid spec choices
• £7,300 / €8,900 as tested

Although Merida’s Ninety-Six seems conventional with its 100mm of suspension travel front and rear, it features trail-friendly geometry with a 68.5-degree head tube angle and a steep 76-degree seat tube angle.

The bike features a Shimano XTR groupset, Fox Factory-level suspension and own-brand finishing kit.

We found it to be a rocket ship up the climbs, with the active suspension helping you maintain speed up rough and loose climbs. It has plenty of character through corners thanks to its reactive steering.

On descents, the Ninety-Six is slightly more nervous than the long reach would suggest.

The rear shock can lurch deeper into its travel than expected.

• Read our full Merida Ninety-Six RC 9000 review

Pivot LES SL 29 Pro XT/XTR

• Geometry inspires confidence
• Fast and fun
• £6,750 / $6,199 as tested

Pivot's LES SL is a carbon race bike with clean lines and an innovative carbon construction, in that the frames are moulded from the inside out to reduce imperfections. The carbon frames have also been optimised to provide the same ride feel, whatever the size.

The bike climbs well, with the frame feeling stiff but not to the point of being harsh. The winning geometry also means there's room to shift your weight around to maintain traction.

Heading down the other side, the LES SL handles well, thanks to its moderately long reach, head tube angle and 60mm stem. It holds its speed well over chattery trails and the handling feels precise.

The LES SL is adorned with a host of Pivot-branded kit, a Factory-level Fox 32 StepCast fork and a Shimano XT groupset, with an upgraded XTR rear derailleur.

The only real criticism we can level at the bike is the spec doesn't represent the best value for money when compared to its competitors.

• Read our full Pivot LES SL 29 Pro XT/XTR review

Santa Cruz Blur C X01 AXS RSV

• The brand’s lightest cross-country bike yet
• Inspired geometry with dependable handling
• £8,099 / $9,149 as tested

This Santa Cruz Blur is a bang-up-to-date cross-country mountain bike, with 100mm of suspension travel both front and rear. The Blur's geometry is just right – not so long and slack to feel sluggish, but stable enough for descents.

The bike offers a precise and composed ride, descending with plenty of confidence. It’s comfortable, fast and reactive, making it ideal for short races or marathon events.

Our only major reservation is that the TwistLoc lever-based lockout is not as intuitive to use as others. We found we needed to twist it quite far around the bar to lock the shock and it’s not the lightest either.

• Read our full Santa Cruz Blur X01 AXS RSV review

Scott Spark RC Team Issue AXS

• A radical but modern XC bike with an internal shock layout
• Bang up-to-date geometry
• £4,699 as tested

Scott’s latest Spark RC underwent quite a radical update, getting a new internal shock suspension layout and upping the travel to 120mm at both ends.

Despite the shock not being visible, setting up the Spark was incredibly easy and there’s a sag meter printed on the non-driveside seat tube and seatstay junction for guidance.

The updates result in a bike that’s dominant on the descents, despite not being specced with a dropper seatpost or particularly wide handlebars. Grip is excellent uphill and Scott’s TwinLoc remote lockout lever is incredibly easy to control from the bar.

The bike is specced with a SRAM GX Eagle AXS wireless electronic groupset, which impresses all who test it, and the suspension comes courtesy of RockShox, with Scott’s in-house brand, Syncros, featuring heavily for the rest of the build.

• Read our full Scott Spark RC Team Issue AXS review

Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup

• Reacts to pedal input like a hardtail
• Performance comes at the cost of versatility
• £12,000 as tested

The Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup is unapologetically XC race-focused.

The bike is an exceptional climber, thanks in part to the tyres and Roval Contact SL wheelset. Pedal bob is virtually eliminated when you run the rear shock in its ‘No Gulp’ setting, making the Epic feel a lot like a hardtail.

The 75mm of rear travel takes the sting out of descents rather than flattering your skills, but with a bit more thought, the bike can certainly compete against 120mm-travel XC race bikes.

This isn’t a hugely versatile bike. The suspension and harsh cockpit will leave you wanting a more forgiving ride when cruising around. But if you’re heading off to a race, this bike will reward your full-gas efforts. 

• Read our full Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup review

Cross-country mountain bike buyer's guide

What is a cross-country mountain bike.

A cross-country mountain bike is designed to cover a variety of off-road terrain as quickly as possible. It needs to be equally capable of climbing and descending, while also being efficient when pedalling on flatter terrain, or picking a line through tight, twisting singletrack.

Cross-country bikes are usually the lightest type of mountain bike you can buy for a given price and are often made from carbon fibre, although more affordable aluminium options are also widely available.

XC bikes have less suspension travel than trail bikes and enduro bikes , so won’t be as adept on very steep, rough and technical trails. That being said, in the right hands – for example, a professional rider – a cross-country bike is surprisingly capable.

While cross-country bikes are designed mainly for racing, they’re equally at home on mellower trails, or a big day out in the hills when you’ll value the all-round capability of an XC bike on varied terrain.

What about downcountry?

Before we go any further, we need to quickly mention downcountry bikes.

Downcountry is a fairly new term within mountain biking. In essence, it refers to bikes that blur the line between dedicated cross-country race bikes and more forgiving trail bikes.

A downcountry bike will have a little more suspension travel than a cross-country race bike; normally in the region of 120 to 130mm at the front and 110 to 115mm at the rear.

It will also have geometry that leans more towards descending performance than pedalling efficiency. For example, a slacker head angle, longer reach and longer wheelbase.

Finally, the componentry will be chosen with descending in mind, with more powerful brakes, larger/grippier tyres and a dropper post.

For riders who want a fast, versatile bike for a variety of terrain, downcountry bikes fill that gap. If this sounds like the type of bike for you, then check out our buyer’s guide to the best downcountry mountain bikes .

Hardtail vs full-suspension for XC racing

The first decision you need to make when buying a cross-country bike is whether you want a hardtail or full-suspension bike .

A hardtail only has suspension at the front through the fork , while a full-suspension bike has suspension at the front and rear.

There are pros and cons to each for cross-country riding, and this will influence which option will be best for you.

Hardtail bike for XC riding

For a given spec, a hardtail will nearly always be lighter than a full-suspension bike. So if you live somewhere hilly, or just prioritise climbing performance above all else, then a hardtail could be a good option.

With suspension only at the front of the bike, a hardtail is simpler in its design, making it easier and cheaper to maintain than a full-suspension bike.

Finally, for the same cost, a hardtail can often come with a better spec than a full-suspension bike, so may require less, if any, upgrading in the future.

Full-suspension bike for XC riding

While a hardtail will typically be lighter, more affordable and simpler to maintain than a full-suspension bike, when it comes to descending performance, a full-susser will win every time.

They’re also more comfortable than a hardtail, which is especially important for longer rides or races.

On rough, flat terrain, full-suspension bikes will often enable you to pedal more efficiently because the rear suspension soaks up any bumps in the ground.

As we’ve already mentioned, they will usually be heavier. However, this gap has narrowed over recent years, and at the top end, they may only weigh a kilo or two more than a hardtail.

For many riders, the relatively small weight penalty of a full-suspension bike is worth the benefits of better descending, more comfort and increased pedalling efficiency on rough terrain.

What to look for when buying a cross-country bike

Now you’ve decided between a hardtail and full-suspension bike, here’s what else you need to look out for when buying a cross-country bike.

Cross-country bikes have traditionally had ‘steeper’ geometry figures than trail or enduro bikes. The logic was that the ‘quicker’ handling made cross-country bikes better in tight singletrack and elbow-to-elbow racing.

However, modern cross-country racing now takes place on much tougher courses, which are equal parts tricky descents and lung-searing climbs, so geometry has had to keep up with this trend.

Head angles as slack as 67 degrees and reach figures once only seen on trail bikes are not uncommon on modern cross-country bikes.

They will also have steeper seat angles of around 74 to 75 degrees, which puts a rider's hips in a better position over the bottom bracket for pedalling efficiency.

Prime examples of modern cross-country geometry are the Specialized Epic and the BMC Twostroke.

Frame material

There are two main frame materials to choose from: carbon fibre and aluminium.

When it comes to professional racing, every rider will use carbon fibre; it’s lighter than aluminium and can be designed to be stiffer, so makes perfect sense if all you're worried about is going as fast as possible, with little concern for budget.

The downside of carbon is it’s more expensive than aluminium, and in certain situations, more susceptible to crash damage.

Aluminium is more affordable and better at resisting damage from certain impacts. This makes it ideal if you’re looking to save money or want your bike to be as durable as possible. The latest aluminium frames can be impressively light, too.

Titanium and steel cross-country bikes do exist, but these are in the minority.

How much does a cross-country mountain bike weigh?

Your power-to-weight ratio is important for success in cross-country, so naturally riders want the lightest equipment possible, while still being able to withstand the demands of hard riding or racing.

You might find a top-spec hardtail weighing in at under 8kg, which is incredibly impressive considering what these bikes are capable of. More affordable models typically weigh anywhere from 9 to 11kg.

When it comes to full-suspension bikes, a top-spec model could come in just under 10kg, with more affordable bikes weighing anywhere from 12 to 14kg.

While overall bike weight is a factor, especially if you’re an elite racer, there are much better and cheaper ways to get faster when you’re starting out – such as training.

So, try not to get too hung up with weight early on. There’ll be plenty of time to start counting those grams and emptying your wallet as you progress gradually through the ranks.

On modern cross-country bikes, nearly every model will feature 29in mountain bike wheels .

While 29ers took a while to truly catch on, they’re now considered a smart option for many riders, thanks to their ability to roll over obstacles more easily, and arguably provide better pedalling speed.

In some circumstances, such as for particularly short riders, it may be best to go for smaller 27.5in wheels, but for most people, 29ers are the way to go for XC bikes.

If you want more information, we’ve got a guide to mountain bike wheel sizes , covering the pros and cons of 26in, 27.5in and 29in wheels.

Tyre choice comes down to a balancing act between rolling resistance/speed and grip, so the best cross-country tyres will usually have smaller tread blocks than trail or enduro tyres.

XC tyres may also have thinner sidewalls to save weight, and in some cases be made out of a slightly harder compound, which can roll faster.

However, remember a harder compound will, in theory, provide less grip, and thinner sidewalls offer less puncture protection. As we said, there’s always a compromise to be made somewhere.

Cross-country tyres were traditionally much narrower than trail or enduro tyres – but, as the sport has changed, the tyre sizes have increased, so you’ll now find cross-country tyres in the 2.2in to 2.4in range.

How much travel do you need?

When it comes to suspension travel , nearly all cross-country bikes will have 100mm of front and rear travel.

As we’ve already mentioned, downcountry bikes up this travel a little, with around 110-115mm at the back and 120-130mm on the front.

That said, it’s also worth bearing in mind how the Scott Spark, a pure XC race bike, now has 120mm at both the front and rear. As we said, XC race bikes are changing.

Scott knows a thing or two about making great cross-country bikes – the outgoing Spark was hugely popular on the XC scene – so it’ll be interesting to see if longer travel on dedicated race bikes will start to catch on.

Just like the best trail mountain bikes , cross-country bikes have almost exclusively moved to 1x drivetrains , with Shimano and SRAM mountain bike groupsets dominating the market.

1x drivetrains have one chainring at the front (removing the need for a front derailleur), with a wide-ranging 11- or 12-speed cassette at the back to still provide a big spread of gears.

Stronger professional riders have been known to run up to a 38-tooth chainring at the front. However, at the amateur level most riders will normally go for a 32- or 34-tooth chainring instead.

Cassette sizes usually range from a 10- or 11-tooth sprocket for the hardest gear to a 51- or 52-tooth sprocket for the easiest climbing gear.

This is a pretty big spread and should keep those legs turning up the steepest of climbs.

Cross-country bikes will commonly be fitted with lightweight disc brakes. These will have smaller rotors, with most riders opting for 160mm front and rear.

Some particularly powerful riders may pop a 180mm rotor on the front, and the lightest riders may go for a 140mm on the rear, but in general, 160mm is what’s seen most commonly.

XC disc brakes won’t be quite as powerful as the brakes you’ll find on an enduro bike, but they’re more than capable for the job at hand.

On the most affordable bikes, these may be cable-actuated disc brakes, but from the mid-range and up, you’ll find hydraulic mountain bike disc brakes on all cross-country bikes.

Dropper posts

The best dropper posts enable you to lower your saddle height at the touch of a button or lever mounted on your handlebar. This helps with descending because you’re able to move the bike and your weight around more easily.

Droppers were once unheard of in cross-country racing because most riders thought they were too heavy and unreliable. But as the sport and dropper technology has progressed, they’ve become more popular, with many pro riders making the switch.

Dropper posts aren’t necessarily cheap, but if you can afford one, or your bike already comes with one, they can be a great addition for a relatively small weight penalty (around 400 to 500g).

For many riders, adding a dropper post can really increase the descending capability of a bike, which is why it’s one of the smartest mountain bike upgrades you can make.

How much should you spend on a cross-country bike?

You can spend anywhere from £500 all the way up to £10,000 on a cross-country bike. While elite riders may want the best money can buy, most keen amateur racers will usually spend between £2,000 and £5,000 on their XC bike.

That said, more affordable bikes in the £750 to £2,000 range are still excellent options for beginners or riders looking to save money.

As ever, it’s a case of weighing up your priorities when it comes to price, component choice, weight and so on, before taking the plunge.

• Best mountain bikes under £3,000
• Best mountain bikes under £2,000
• Best mountain bikes under £1,000
• Best mountain bikes under £750

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Weight / ML - 15.28 kg / 33.68 lbs (with tubes)

At a glance

820 is an excellent entryway to a world of off-road adventures. It’s the most affordable mountain bike in our lineup and the ideal choice for beginners who are interested in the MTB life but also want a hybrid bike that’s as equally suited to light trails as it is to potholed city streets.

Where To Buy

Specifications

• Frame Trek Custom Steel, rack mounts, 135x5mm QR
• Fork SR Suntour M-3030, coil spring, 100x5mm QR, 75mm travel
• Crank Shimano Tourney TY301, 42/34/24, 170mm length
• Front Derailleur Shimano Tourney TY500, 31.8mm clamp, top swing, dual pull
• Rear Derailleur Shimano Tourney TY300, long cage, 34T max cog
• Shifters Shimano Tourney EF41, 7 speed
• Brakeset Tektro alloy linear-pull
• Handlebar Size: XS, S Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 15mm rise, 660mm width Size: M/L, L, XL Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 15mm rise, 690mm width
• Seatpost Size: XS, S Bontrager alloy, 29.2mm, 12mm offset, 300mm length Size: M/L, L Bontrager alloy, 29.2mm, 12mm offset, 330mm length
• Stem Size: XS Size: S
• Grips Bontrager SSR
• Headset 1-1/8'' threadless

Q: How much is a 2020 Trek 820?

A 2020 Trek 820 is typically priced around $400 USD when new. Be sure to shop around for the best price, and also look to the used market for a great deal.

Q: Where to buy a 2020 Trek 820?

The 2020 Trek 820 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: How much does a 2020 Trek 820 weigh?

A 2020 Trek 820 weights ML - 15.28 kg / 33.68 lbs (with tubes).

Q: What size 2020 Trek 820 should I get?

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Best cross-country XC mountain bikes: Thoroughbred racing steeds

• Alan Muldoon
• April 16, 2024

The best cross-country (XC) mountain bikes are all about raw speed. But their light weight and excellent efficiency also makes then ideal for fast, flowing singletrack as well as racing.

XC Race Bike Test opener Credit: Mick Kirkman

Welcome to a lean, mean collection of the best cross-country mountain bikes built for speed, all put through their (race) paces by our expert team of reviewers. Lighter and faster than the more versatile bikes from our list of best mountain bikes , these whippets are not for the faint-hearted.

While all these bikes bring distinctively different approaches to what makes an XC race winner, there is a thread that ties them all together: all are rolling on 29in wheels. From hardtail to full-suspension options, some feature traditional XC geometry, while others are a little slacker in the head angle with more suspension to take on the increasingly technical modern cross-country tracks, and also thanks to the growth in popularity of down-country bikes .

Best cross-country mountain bikes: hardtails

The latest Trek Procaliber 9.7 keeps the same comfortable frame but gains a SRAM wireless T-Type transmission.

1. Trek Procaliber

Best xc hardtail for a compliant ride.

Frame: OCLV Mountain Carbon | Frame sizes:  S, M, M/L, L, XL, XXL  | Suspension travel:  110mm f  | Weight: 11.01kg | Rating: 10/10

Reasons to buy:

• Comfortable as well as speedy
• Wide size range

Reasons to avoid:

• Lacks a dropper post for modern XC courses

We tested the Trek Procaliber 9.7 a few years ago and it blew the competition away to take the top step of the podium in our group test. The current model hasn’t changed significantly – it still uses the same OCLV carbon frame with effective, trail-smoothing IsoSpeed decoupler, that lets you save energy and channel more into effort into reaching the finish line first.

When we tested it we were blown away, writing: ‘From the first pedal stroke the Procaliber took the lead in this test and never faltered. We were instantly won over by its effortless turn of speed, in part thanks to the carbon wheels, but it’s also about the more forgiving ride quality of the frame. Bumps just didn’t chip away at our speed as much as they did on the other bikes on test. And even when we were out of the saddle, the Procaliber was still the smoothest bike here.’ High praise indeed.

Read our full test review of the Trek Procaliber 9.7

Giant’s XTC SLR 29 1 is dressed to impress.

2. Giant XTC SLR 29 1

Best budget xc race hardtail.

Frame:  ALUXX SLR aluminium  | Frame sizes:  S, M, L, XL  | Suspension travel:  100mm f  |  Weight:  12.29kg | Rating:  10/10

• Giant Crest forks adds accuracy
• Needs lock-on grips
• Tall top tube height

A light frame, precise fork, and stellar handling ensured the Giant XTC emerged out in front when we tested four budget XC race hardtails. There’s an obvious pedigree bred from years of racing development, and the result is a bike that we described as “startlingly fast yet totally forgiving”.

Whether you’re planning to dip your toe into XC racing, have a crack at a marathon event, or fancy the challenge of a long-distance trail such as the South Downs Way, the Giant XTC SLR 29 1 is up for the fight.

Read our full test review of the Giant XTC SLR 29 1

The Voodoo Bizango Pro won our hardtail of the year test in 2022, and carries so much pace that it would make a superb starter XC bike.

2. Voodoo Bizango Pro

Best budget mountain bike for racing and long rides.

Wheel size:  29in |  Frame sizes:  S, M, L, XL |  Weight:  13.2kg |  Suspension travel:  130mm front |  Rating:  10/10

• Good geometry and superlative spec choices
• Low weight and comfy ride feel
• BB could be a finger’s width lower
• Fatter tyres and more standover clearance would be welcome

The Voodoo Bizango has smashed pretty much any test it’s ever entered, winning our Hardtail of the Year award multiple times, earning regular podium places on our list of  the best hardtail mountain bikes , and impressing everyone who rode it. It must have been very tempting for Halfords to stick with the old frame, add a modern colour, fettle the spec and keep mixing up that winning mix.

We’re extremely glad they didn’t then. For Halfords’ sake, standing still in the ultra competitive hardtail market is suicide. And for our sake, the new Bizango Pro is much the superior bike to anything Voodoo has made before, and ultimately more fun to ride. Great brakes mean you can go faster in the happy knowledge you can stop when you need to, while the 12-speed shifting means you can cruise the hills faster than plenty of full-sus bikes out there. And then there’s the fork, it’s hugely superior to anything we’ve tried before on a £1k hardtail: air-sprung so you can set the sag to your weight, effective rebound dial for control, and a really smooth feel.

Read the full Voodoo Bizango Pro review

Scott’s Scale has an enviable racing pedigree.

3. Scott Scale

Best chassis for upgrade.

Frame: 6061 Custom butted aluminium | Frame sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL | Suspension travel:  100mm f  | Weight: 12.97kg | Rating: 9/10

• Composed ride
• No tubeless-ready tyres
• Basic fork gets overwhelmed easily

Some brands use race teams for marketing, others focus on product development; Scott clearly does both. As such, the Scale is a finely tuned XC race machine with a huge trophy cabinet to prove it. It’s a light bike for the money, and with a stance and fit that will appeal to performance-minded riders, it will come as no surprise that the Scott feels quick straight off the mark. In our review, we explained this was “assisted no doubt by the wide 92mm bottom bracket shell and boxy, flattened chainstays”. Which meant that “putting the power down out of the saddle feels both natural and rewarding”.

Unfortunately the fly in the ointment is the basic RockShox Judy fork. It doesn’t have the damping control to match the speed you can generate from the chassis, so you end up using more energy to stay on line and maintain that valuable momentum. Given that the frame deserves it, we’d recommend stepping up to the Scale 960 at £1,699 which runs a stouter Fox 32 Rhythm.

Read our full test review of the Scott Scale 965

Best cross-country mountain bikes: full-suspension

The new Specialized Epic WC is as much brain as brawn.

1. Specialized Epic 8

Techno tour de force.

Frame:  FACT 12M Carbon | Frame Sizes: XS, S, M, M/L, L, XL  | Suspension travel: 120mm f, 120mm r | Weight: 10.49kg | Rating: N/A

• Superlight yet impressively controlled and practical frame
• Automatic Ai suspension leaves you with more mental capacity for tactics
• Perfect race componentry
•  Premium performance comes at a premium cost
• Flight Attendant auto-suspension is bound to be an opinion divider

Specialized always likes to be one step ahead of the competition, whether it’s on the race track or the shop floor, and the new Epic 8 is the most advanced XC bike on the planet. Of course, that also means that the price tag is out of this world.

But you do get a mind-bendingly fast machine that’s now in its 8th iteration – hence the name. Perhaps the most impressive part of this bike is the way it blends old-school know how – excellent handling, efficient pedalling, capable suspension – with a fork and shock that work together under the control of a sophisticated brain to make sure you’re always in the optimum mode. Which lets you get on with the job of showing your competitors a clean pair of wheels.

Read our full review of the Specialized Epic 8 WC

Trek’s Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 builds on a winning formula.

2. Trek Supercaliber Gen 2

Best money-no-object xc race bike.

Frame: SLR OCLV Mountain Carbon | Frame Sizes: S, M, L, XL | Suspension travel: 100mm f, 100mm r | Weight: 9.75kg | Rating: 9/10

• Conventional frame configuration
• Predictable handling and suspension
• Race-ready build
• Press-fit BB servicing sucks (but you’ll find them on most XC race bikes)
• Narrow tyres and no power meter on the top spec

Don’t be fooled by the dropper post; Trek’s new Supercaliber is still a pure-bred XC race bike that thrives on speed and success. The latest frame design is a subtle evolution of the original, which means it’s more about ironing out the creases than starting from scratch. The proprietary IsoStrut suspension minimises weight while maximising stiffness, so you get a smoother, faster ride, without losing forward momentum in a sprint or on the climbs. 

As we said in our review, “ the stiff frame, progressive suspension and increased anti squat all boost ego when you’re putting the effort in”. And while the dropper post adds a tiny bit of weight to the sub-10kg package, it lets you attack on the descents as well as the climbs. 

Read our full review of the Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2

Integrated suspension system conceals the RockShox NUDE 5 shock inside the full carbon frame.

3. Scott Spark RC

Best xc bike for on-the-fly suspension optimisation.

Wheel size:  29in |  Frame sizes:  S, M, L, XL |  Weight:  11.12kg |  Suspension travel:  120mm f/120mm r |  Rating:  9/10

• Ruthless in its efficiency
• Hidden shock should need less maintenance
• Remote suspension adjust
• Suspension could be more supple in Descend mode

Scott’s Spark has won more trophies than any other race bike, with double Olympic gold back in 2016. This latest version gets a sleek new frame and more modern geometry, meaning that while the Scott Spark has lost none of its potency, it has now become even more versatile. It also gets a hidden shock for reduced maintenance, and remote suspension control for uphill efficiency without compromising on downhill confidence. It’s also one of the sleekest, cleanest designs on the planet.

Read our full review of the Scott Spark RC WC AXS

Santa Cruz Blur is not the stiffest race bike, but it’s one of the lightest and a lot of fun to ride.

4. Santa Cruz Blur

Punches well above its weight.

Frame: CC carbon, 100mm | Frame Sizes: S, M, L, XL | Suspension travel: 100mm f, 100mm r | Weight: 10.41kg | Rating: 8/10

• So light it barely needs any human propulsion
• Rear suspension is not the firmest under power

The Santa Cruz Blur barely makes an impression on the scales, weighing a scant 10.4kg in size large with the build kit shown above. But it certainly makes an impression on the trails, with a comfortable ride and effortless momentum over sections that would have most XC bikes tensing up and slowing down. There’s no shortage of urgency to the acceleration, and it’s surprisingly capable downhill, but there are better climbing XC bikes.

We found the suspension tune gave loads of grip, but absorbed some of our energy on the climbs. Luckily there’s a remote lockout to compensate, but it’s not as sophisticated as Scott’s TwinLoc system.

Read our full test review of the Santa Cruz Blur XC CC X01 AXS RSV

How we tested

Each of the bikes above was put through its paces in a rigorous testing process, ridden hard over many miles by experience bike testers. Judged on performance when sprinting, climbing, descending, riding features such as drops, jumps, root sections and rock gardens, only the bikes which scored highly in reviews have been included here. These are the best of the best.

Evie Richards performs at UCI XCO World Championships in Glentress, Scotland on her Trek Supercaliber // Bartek Wolinski / Red Bull Content Pool.

What is XC racing and what makes a good race bike?

In many ways, XC racing is the foundation upon which our sport has been built. Yes, new styles and disciplines come and go, or morph in the way that 160mm-travel all-mountain bikes transformed into enduro rigs. Cross-country racing, however, has weathered the storms of fashion and remains ingrained in riding culture to this day, and with the success of the Olympics and stars such as Evie Richards, Tom Pidcock and Mathieu van der Poel now couldn’t be a better time to try one of these addictively fast machines. If you want something more versatile, check out our buyer’s guide to the best down-country bikes as these bring a little bit more suspension travel and allow you to broaden your riding horizons.

Like all survivors, XC racing has prospered by evolving. Long gone are the three-hour mud-fests on non-challenging terrain. Courses are now shorter and more demanding, challenging riders and equipment, while pushing the visual aspect to make it more appealing for spectators.

A typical XC race loop now features punchy climbs, descents worthy of any EWS stage plus more purpose-built features for the TV cameras. XC riding and racing is thrilling to watch because it is no longer purely a test of raw fitness; it’s about pushing skill levels and bike handling as much as heart rates.

We had to borrow Lycra from our sister publication for this XC hardtail test.

Full-suspension Vs hardtail: which makes the best XC race bike?

We love hardtails at mbr. XC race bikes have never been in a better spot, the bikes rising to the challenge of modern courses and the demands of the next generation of racers.

And while most of the racing elite have smoothly transitioned to 29er full-suspension bikes, if you’re just getting into XC racing, a trusty 29er hardtail is a much more affordable way to get your hands on a lightweight, efficient bike. Which is why we have several XC 29er race hardtails selected for this list.

The Scott Spark RC is one of the most iconic race bikes of modern times.

Which bike should I choose for cross-country mountain biking?

As XC courses have evolved, so too have the bikes. As such, modern XC races will probably see very few races won on a hardtail, with lightweight full-suspension bikes proving to be the most efficient over the majority of race courses. Even at the highest level of World Cup racing, the pros have realised that effective suspension and confidence-inspiring geometry can bring bigger gains than just weight saving and efficiency alone.

So for most riders, a full-suspension XC bike will reduce fatigue on a modern race course, allowing you to use that saved energy to attack the competition. And when you’re not between the tape, a full-sus race bike can also hold its own as a trail bike, giving extra versatility.

Riders like Tom Pidcock are bringing a fresh injection of style and excitement to XC racing.

However, if you’re toying with trying a few XC races, but also fancy the idea of a gravel bike, an XC hardtail would make a better tool. Why? Well, they’re likely to be just as fast as a gravel bike on most actual gravel roads, but with the right cockpit and geometry for bombing off-piste when the opportunity arises. And who wants to spend their life grovelling along a gravel road when you could be ripping some prime singletrack?

Bike Station Blog

10 Best Cross-Country Mountain Bikes in 2022

• Post author By Tom
• Post date January 4, 2022

If you’ve been fruitlessly searching for the best cross-country mountain bike in [current_year], you’re in the right place.

Cross-country riding puts more emphasis on endurance than trail riding. In order to achieve optimum performance on rocky ground, cross-country bikes tend to be super light. These are often hardtail mountain bikes with front suspension only.

So, are you looking for something bigger and better than a road bike to punish rough terrain? If so, you’re in for a treat. We’ll showcase the top ten mountain bikes ideal for these purposes. We’ll also be showing you what to look for on the buying trail. Read on and you’ll learn how to find the best cross-country mountain bikes — the easy way.

Page Contents

Short on Time? See our Top Rated Products From 3 Categories

X-Caliber 7

• Suspension lockout
• Smart wheel size
• Shorter chainstays

Where To Buy

Trek Marlin 5

• Independent brake and gear levers
• Mounts in place for rack and kickstand
• Agile handling

Scott Genius 960 Complete 2021

• Rugged aluminum alloy
• 11-speed drivetrain
• Easy three-position shock adjustments

The Best Cross-Country Mountain Bikes

1. trek marlin 5 cross country mtb.

Key Features:

• Independent brake and gear levers for improved positioning
• Mounts in place for rack and kickstand along

Key Specifications:

• Dimensions: Wheel Size: 29 Inch, Frame Size: 18.5 Inch
• Weight: 32.17 lbs
• Available Colors: Matte Royal

First up, Trek proves you can get a cheap cross-country mountain bike without compromising quality with the entry-level Marlin 5. This bike will take you nearly everywhere, from commuting on city streets to hitting a rocky mountain trail. Front suspension with 100mm of travel combined with 21 speeds gives you a rugged yet nimble mountain bike.

If you plan to use your Marlin 5 commuting, you’ll appreciate the integrated mounts for your rack and stand. The super light aluminum frame gets you up to speed, and then you can take advantage of mechanical disc brakes to stop on a dime. With independent brake and gear levers, you can manipulate positioning with great precision.

Backed by an unbeatable lifetime guarantee, the  Trek Marlin 5 Cross  is one of the best mountain bikes for beginners. Whether you choose the 29 or 27.5 cross-country mountain bike, you’re in for an all-terrain treat.

2. Trek X-Caliber 7 Cross Country MTB

• Dimensions: Wheel Size: 29 Inch, Frame Size: 17.5 Inch
• Weight: 29.53 lbs
• Available Colors: Mulsanne Blue/Anthracite

Next up in our cross-country mountain bike reviews is the  X-Caliber 7,  another fine model from Trek’s deep bench.

The X-Caliber is one of Trek’s enduringly popular XC  hardtail mountain bikes  packing an Alpha Gold aluminum frame. Lightweight yet durable, you’ll also find this bike remarkably maneuverable thanks to the tapered head tube. Shorter chainstays further enhance handling.

The RockShox 300 Silver air fork comes with 100mm of travel and lockout. You’ll find most bumps nicely cushioned. With rebound adjust, you can tweak set-up nicely in line with your weight.

You can upgrade the dropper post with ease thanks to internal routing ports. This feature comes in handy if you want to raise and lower your saddle on the go. Pop a stand and rack on your Trek X-Caliber 7, and you’ll be all set for a hard day on the trail. This is one of those bikes that performs just as well when you’re racing as when you’re barreling cross country.

3. Marin Wildcat Trail 5

• Light and durable 6061 aluminum frame
• Shimano, MicroShift, & Marin for inexpensive drivetrain with great performance
• Shimano MT201 Hydraulic Disc Brakeset for clean levers with power
• Dimensions: Wheel Size: 27.5 Inch, Frame Size: M
• Weight: not specified
• Available Colors: Gloss Charcoal/Coral/Dark Coral

The  Marin Wildcat Trail 5  shows why the 29-er trend is in no danger of dying out. The bigger wheels on this bike allow you to harness plenty of momentum on the trail.

The 130mm Maestro suspension helps you achieve control and comfort alongside great traction and blistering speed. This model is an adaptable full-suspension cross-country mountain bike with highly effective active rear suspension. While not a full carbon bike, you’ll get carbon fiber components in the suspension.

The ALUXX SL Aluminum build gives you a frame that’s built to withstand some serious punishment without weighing you down as you shoot off cross country. You’ll get 12 speeds, which is the optimum set-up for the best cross-country mountain bikes.

The raking design, impeccable brand heritage, and ambitious frame design make this an absolute must if you have exacting tastes and a fluid budget. Snare strength, power, and style in one appealing bike. This is the best cross-country mountain bike for racing.

4. Trek Procaliber 6

• IsoSpeed – mixed drivetrain and hydraulic disc brakes
• 1 x 12 drivetrain
• Shimano hydraulic disc brakes
• Weight: 26.92 lbs
• Available Colors: Matte/Gloss Black, Purple Phaze

The  Trek Procaliber 6  is hands down one of the most effective mountain bikes for dirt trails.

The innovative IsoSpeed decoupler means the seat tube can rotate separately from the junction between the top tube and seat stay. This aspect improves vertical compliance without any impact on pedaling efficiency. The result is a smoothness you don’t typically find on hardtail mountain bikes.

You get the 1 x 12 drivetrain you want when you’re zooming through bike parks or snaking up and down a trail. It yields ample choice of gears without overcomplicating things. With all that potential pace comes excellent stopping power thanks to hydraulic disc brakes from Shimano.

Are you just starting to get interested in competitive racing? If so, the Procaliber 6 gives you the best cross-country parts on a commendable frame with a fair price tag in the bargain. What’s not to love?

5. Scott Genius 960 Complete 2021

• X-Fusion NUDE Rear Shock  for excellent small-bump sensitivity
• Virtual 4 Link Design for perfect balance and control to the platform
• Easy wheel size changes
• Dimensions: Wheel Size: 29 Inch, Frame Size: S & L
• Weight: 32.4 lbs (14.7 kg)
• Available Colors: Matte Juniper Blue/Brushed Metal

The  Scott Genius 960   is one of the most versatile bikes on our list today. From whizzing around city streets to mountain biking on a trail to competitive cross country, the Tallboy lets you do it all.

110mm VPP suspension allows you to ride in comfort as well as style. The DPS valve has both compression and rebound pistons resulting in solid lockout without sacrificing bump compliance. The shocks come with a three-position lever.

The SRAM NX drivetrain is a 1 x 11 set-up so you can shoot quickly out of the blocks, accelerate uphill, and get just the right gear when you’re twisting downhill at speed.

The wheels are 29s with spokes triple-crossed to aluminum hubs. This results in a smooth trail feel along with remarkable robustness. The Tallboy A D serves up versatility and performance at a reasonable price point. It’s not cheap, but it’s not a bank-breaker, either.

6. Orbea Alma M-Team Bike 2021

• Alma Carbon OMX frame with internal cable routing and a BlockLock headset
• Shimano XTR drivetrain provides incredibly reliable shifting in the most demanding terrain
• Shimano XT hydraulic disc brakes offer confidence-inspiring stopping power
• Dimensions: Wheel Size: 29 Inch, Frame Size: L
• Available Colors: Golden Blue/Carbon

If you’re prepared to forego front and rear suspension in favor of a hardtail mountain bike, why not road test the  Orbea Alma M-Team  ? This fantastic 29er comes with a featherlight frame and race geometry that enables you to pick up some serious speed.

The frame is made from Orbea OMR carbon. The overhauled geometry serves up stability without the added weight of bonded sections. The head angles, seat angles, and the tube angle are all configured with speed in mind. The fork and rear triangles are extra-stiff and tremendously efficient.

The 12-speed drivetrain from Shimano XTR gives you a broad enough gear choice without introducing too much complexity. Easy to use and equally simple to maintain, this is one of those bikes that’s a genuine pleasure to ride.

Whether you opt for the smaller 27.5-inch wheel frame or you roll with the enduringly popular 29er, you’re in safe hands with the Alma M15.

7. Santa Cruz Bicycles Tallboy C S

• Carbon C frame provides strength and stiffness
• SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain
• VPP 120mm suspension
• Dimensions: Wheel Size: 29 Inch, Frame Size: XS, S, M
• Weight: 30 lbs
• Available Colors: Black

One of the pricier bikes for those cross-country trails, the iconic  Santa Cruz Bicycles Tallboy C S  has a highly capable carbon C frame. It gives you the ability to climb hills without feeling fatigued and to barrel downhill at considerable speed.

The VPP 120mm suspension gives you a pair of short links that rotate in opposite directions, allowing for precisely fine-tuned shock rates to suit everything from  enduro mountain bikes  to road bikes.

The seat tube angle is 73 degrees regardless of whether you go for a small, a size large, or an XXL.

A SRAM Guide R brake set means you can confidently stop on a dime even if you’re navigating the most complicated of trails. Despite the heavyweight performance of these brakes, the components are blissfully lightweight.

Tough and lightweight 29er alloy wheels complete an alluring package and make this one of the strongest cross-country bikes in a crowded vertical.

8. Procaliber 9.7

• Portable, durable, light for taking and riding
• Central folding design is compact and can be placed anywhere
• Shock absorber is comfortable and the rebound is strong
• Dimensions: Wheel Size & Frame Size: not provided
• Weight: 30 speed
• Available Colors: White Red

With a BallisTec carbon frame and a carbon handlebar, the  Procaliber 9.7   lives up to its name. What else makes it so good aside from that space-age material?

Next-level geometry helps you to work your way up the sharpest inclines and head down the steepest slopes with ease and precision.

While your ride won’t be cushioned like a  full-suspension mountain bikes , that’s not the effect you’re looking for with XC bikes. The superlight XC fork helps ensure handling is agile enough, and you won’t be rattled around too much. The Shimano XT 1 x 12 drivetrain is the ideal rig for XC biking. You’ll have gears to suit all occasions with no upkeep.

If you’re motivated primarily by the bottom line, this bike is not for you. If, on the other hand, you’re looking for an ultralight and highly efficient cross-country steed, put your trust in HCMNME.

9. Schwinn S29 Mens Mountain Bike

• Special tires are puncture-resistant
• Highly sensitive disc brake pads are wear-resistant
• Disc brake pads are stable and durable
• Dimensions: Wheel Size: 26 Inch, Frame Size: M & L
• Weight: 48.5 lbs
• Available Colors: Black Blue

Last but certainly not least, in our quest for the finest cross-country bikes, the  Schwinn S29  allows you to power your way up sharp inclines then coast downhill at full clip even if you’re navigating awkward trails.

Like most of the bikes we explore today, this bikes comes with  26-inch wheels so that you can dial it in according to your size and tastes.

The KLYHCHN  gives you the stability you need for cross country trails without compromising speed and agility under other conditions. The Lefty fork provides valuable steering precision set against the rigidity you need.

Weighing just over 23 pounds, this carbon gem is slightly beefier than others but still no heavyweight. If you have a flexible budget and demanding tastes, you won’t be disappointed with this fantastic KLYHCHN  softail.

10. Niner Rip 9 RDO 29 2-Star Bike 2021

• RDO carbon frame with CVA suspension, wide tire clearance, and a geometry flip chip
• Niner Alloy wheels paired with Schwalbe tubeless-ready tires
• KS LEV Si dropper post quickly lifts and lowers your saddle with the press of a lever
• Dimensions: Wheel Size: 29 Inch, Frame size: M
• Available Colors: Satin Carbon

Next up in our quest for the best XC mountain bikes is the  Niner Rip 9 RDO , a lean and mean racing machine as well as one of the best bikes for cross country riding. What makes it so good?

The Hydroformed process consists shaping the aluminum into lightweight. This makes the frame snappy and excelent designed for trail riding.

Packing a boosted rear end, you’ll get less twisting and the benefit of larger wheels. The 12-speed drivetrain, a SRAM GX Eagle, comes with a 10-50T cassette. You’ll be able to confidently negotiate just about any type of terrain from city streets to challenging XC trails.

The Hydroformed aluminum frameset gives you all the support and durability you need while weighing comparatively little. Its components are built for performance without destroying your bank balance, making this one of the best options if you’re looking for power and pace on a budget.

5 Things to Consider When Choosing a Cross-Country Mountain Bike

When you’re looking for XC mountain bikes, focus on the following areas when assembling your shortlist:

• Wheels and tires
• Bike geometry

1) Suspension

Suspension design is arguably your most important consideration. Hardtails are typically favored over full-suspension bikes as they are lighter. Rear suspension adds weight that you could thoroughly do without when you’re snaking around demanding trails.

That said, you might want a rear shock if you plan to ride predominantly on rocky paths and trails with plenty of roots getting in your way.

The bulk of hardtails have a suspension fork with 100-120mm of suspension travel. You’ll get the same amount for rear travel if you opt for a full-suspension alternative.

When you’re considering which suspension platform would make the best fit, don’t forget that it’s all about what kind of terrain you plan to be tackling. Get this right, and you’ll find the right bike with ease. Get it wrong, and you’ll be making an expensive mistake.

2) Wheels and Tires

Next, give due consideration to the wheels and tires.

When you’re choosing between 27.5-inch wheels and 29-inch wheels, the dominance of 29er wheels makes your decision pretty easy. The vast bulk of XC bikes come with 29s.

What’s the benefit of larger wheels? Well, you’ll roll more readily over rocky terrain, and you’ll also find you can maintain speed more easily.

Carbon wheels are stiffer and lighter with the inbuilt benefit of being extremely responsive, too. There’s a price to pay for this improved power transfer and enhanced steering, so be prepared to dig deeper for carbon. Alloy wheels make a reasonable alternative, and they come in at a much better price point.

3) Bike Geometry

The geometry of your XC bicycle will dramatically impact the overall bike feel. This is another area of these bikes that’s changed quite significantly over recent years. Manufacturers are prioritizing aggressiveness and descending.

Slackness has not reached the point of trail bikes, but head angles are certainly slacker. While you can find the occasional 66.5-degree head, the standard head falls somewhere between 68 and 70 degrees. This set-up will help when the trail gets steep and technical while still providing the responsiveness you need to feel comfortable.

Seat angles are usually 74 or 75 degrees for traction and weight distribution.

Shorter chainstay lengths improve both power transfer and traction.

4) Seat Post

There’s little to fire up a healthy debate among riders than the issue of rigid posts vs. dropper posts.

If you opt for a titanium or carbon rigid post, this will shave off some precious weight, but you’ll pay the price when it comes to heading downhill. Unless you’re planning to get involved in some serious racing, the weight saving probably isn’t worth fussing about.

Dropper posts, on the other hand, might weigh very slightly more, but they make descending a whole lot easier.

The cockpits on XC bikes have evolved over time. Where handlebars were once incredibly narrow, these days, they have widened while stems have shortened. Why? Well, the modern configuration ramps up stability and keeps your weight nearer the front than the back.

Typical handlebar width on cross country machines is anywhere from 720mm to 760mm.

Standard stem length of 60mm is more in line with dedicated trail bikes or mountain bikes. With the largest frames available, this could nudge up to as much as 90mm.

What Is a Cross-Country Mountain Bike Used For?

As the name makes abundantly clear, the core purpose of these bikes is for riding cross country.

Although this is the primary use, many XC bikes are also designed to accommodate the needs of commuters, too. If you’re looking for this, make sure the bike comes with mounts for a rack and kickstand.

You might also ride a cross-country bike on a range of trails from fire roads to quite technical singletracks. If you’re competing, cross-country racing spans everything from short, gritty sections to hardcore endurance events.

When you buy a XC bike, and you’re getting a great deal of versatility.

Which Material Is Better for Your Bike? Aluminum Vs. Carbon

You’ll need to decide between an aluminum frame and a carbon frame when you’re scoping out cross-country bikes, but which material is best?

While you can still find steel and titanium frames, it’s aluminum and carbon that rule the roost in 2020.

Aluminum once reigned supreme, but carbon fiber has become far more accessible, so it’s vying for primacy.

Carbon frames give you all the stiffness you need without too much weight thrown in. The malleable nature of carbon makes from superb aerodynamic tubing, as well.

One thing to note with carbon frames, though—it’s tough to detect damage. That can lead to failure under stress when you very least need it. If you take a serious tumble, you should rigorously inspect your carbon frame afterward.

Aluminum frames are alloyed with another metal. You’ll pay less while the material is still pretty light and stiff. The major drawback of aluminum comes in the form of a harsh ride that not everyone enjoys.

How Relevant Is the Wheel Size for a Cross Country Mountain Bike?

How relevant is wheel size, then?

According to research [1], wheel size “does not significantly influence performance” when trained mountain bikers are riding cross country. It’s generally considered that “personal choice” is usually the reason for choosing one size wheel over another.

The good news?

With the dominance of 29ers, you can stick with that size and get solid cross-country performance.

• The effect of mountain bike wheel size on cross-country performance – NCBI
• Categories Categories: Mountain Bike - Buyers Guides and Reviews

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Review Of Trek Marlin 7: A Good Choice for Trail Enthusiasts?

Trek Marlin 7 is the flagship model from the Marlin lineup. This is a race-ready trail bike that doubles as a daily commuter or a leisure two-wheeler. Thanks to its attractive price, it will find its way into the hands of a variety of adventure-hungry riders.

Marlin 7 Gen 2 is the most expensive model from the beginner-friendly Trek Marlin series. However, its $1,030 price is more than justified.

This is an affordable cross-country bike with race-ready geometry and a much better RockShox fork compared to other cheaper Marlin series models.

If you’re more serious about mountain biking and you want the key to the door of real trail riding , then you should read the rest of our detailed Trek Marlin 7 review. You’re guaranteed to like it.

Trek Marlin 7 Quick Overview

Trek marlin 7 main features, does trek marlin 7 fit your needs, verdict: good value or not, trek marlin 7.

The secret to Marlin 7’s success on the entry-level MTB market is the fact that it combines race-ready elements to budget components to offer a versatile package that fits diametrically different needs, such as trail riding, leisure riding, and commuting.

Key Specifications:

• Frame:  Alpha Silver Aluminum
• Fork: RockShox Judy, 100 mm (80mm for XS)
• Cassette: Shimano Deore M4100, 10 speed
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano Deore M5120
• Brakes: Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes
• Rims:  Bontrager Connection, double-wall
• Tire Size:  27.5″/29″ x 2.20″
• Weight:  13.47 kg / 29.7 lbs

Get From Trek

Trek has obviously put a lot of effort into making Marlin 7 Gen 2 a gateway model to some of their higher-priced and higher-specked lineups such as Roscoe or Supercaliber.

Marlin 7 has features from both the entry-level and the mid-range world. It has excellent competition-worthy suspension , brakes, and frame, coupled with a low-level Shimano groupset and a heavier-than-ideal wheelset.

With a few smart upgrades, it can certainly become a bike that can lead you to a cross-country race podium!

Light and Efficient 1×10 Drivetrain

One of the high points of the Trek Malin 7 bike is its light and efficient 1×10 drivetrain. It’s built with an 11-46T cassette.

This means that it has an excellent range of gears .

High-Performing 100mm RockShox Fork

The RockShox Judy fork on Marlin 7 is a big improvement compared to the SR Suntour forks found on other lower-priced Marlin models.

It puts 100mm of travel under your hands but also equips you with a preload function and a Turnkey lockout. Therefore, you can lock it with the flip of a switch even when you’re riding.

The coil spring might make the fork feel a bit inefficient if you are very short and light, but if you have an average weight, you’ll be happy with it.

This fork is ready for fast descents , rocky terrain, and more technical trails.

Budget-Friendly Components

Shimano Deore components are an upgrade from the previous combination of Shimano Altus and Shimano Acera.

Deore is part of the Shimano lineup, the groupset is the cheapest group marketed towards real mountain bikers.

Deore is well-built and reliable, it even shares some features with more expensive groupsets.

Race-Ready Frame Geometry

By far the most important part of any bike is its frame. Trek Marlin 7 can be proud of its Alpha Silver Aluminum frame as its light, compliant, and nimble on the trails.

The race-inspired geometry makes this bike good both at tight and demanding singletracks, as well as at straight downhills attacked at high speeds.

Its 69.3-69.5-degree head tube angle combined with a 73.5-71.9-degree seat tube angle puts you in a good position to have maximum control.

Reliable Hydraulic Disc Brakes

The Shimano MT200 hydraulic brakes are a phenomenal mid-range choice. They are capable of providing you will all the braking power you need when attacking high-speed descents.

Combined with the aluminum Bontrager Connection double-wall wheels and knobby Bontrager XR2 Comp tires, you’ll get  maximum confidence in bends and in wet conditions.

These wheels are not tubeless-ready . Still, they can be easily converted to a tubeless setup which would give Marlin 7 even better trail properties.

To figure out whether or not Marlin 7 is the right bike for you, you first need to define your needs. If trail riding is your hobby or you believe that it might become that, then you should definitely buy Marlin 7. This is a race-ready bike that you can enter amateur competitions with or just have fun with your friends.

But, Marlin 7 is still not too trail-specific that it cannot accomplish other tasks as well. If you can only afford one bike and you want to be able to commute on it as well, this bike can do that.

A few miles on paved roads to get to work will feel like second nature. Best of all, on the way back home, you can hit some trails and end your day the right way.

Geometry & Sizing

Other marlin models.

• Marlin 4 – MSRP $630- Has a lightweight aluminum frame, plenty ogf gears, 100 mm of front suspension, and strong mechanical disc brakes.
• Marlin 5 – MSRP $740 – Combines a light aluminum frame, plush SR Suntour suspension, entry-level Shimano drivetrain, and powerful hydraulic disc brakes in a good-looking trail package.
• Marlin 6 – MSRP $850 – This model is built with an Alpha Silver Aluminum frame, a mid-range Shimano drivetrain, burly tires, and comes with 100 mm of front suspension travel with lockout.
• Marlin 7 – MSRP $1,030 – Trek’s race-worthy model with an Alloy frame, superior RockShox front suspension, quality drivetrain, Shimano components, and improved Shimano hydraulic disc brakes.

Excellent geometry ensures agile steering and the coil-spring RockShox fork provides impressive shock absorption even on rocky surfaces.

The entry-level components keep the price in check but can be upgraded if need be. However, casual riders and first-timers on the trails can enjoy the original setup for years and miles to come.

• Efficient RockShox suspension
• Race-inspired geometry
• Strong Shimano hydraulic brakes
• Wide-range 1x10 drivetrain
• Three attractive colors
• Budget groupsets

Related Topics:

Rad Power Bikes RadTrike Review: A Feature-Rich Electric Tricycle

Charge City Electric Bike Review: Practical, Elegant, and Made for Urban Dwellers

Aventon Level.2 Review: A Reasonably Priced Fully Equipped Commuter

42 thoughts on “ review of trek marlin 7: a good choice for trail enthusiasts ”.

hi jeff im planning to buy marlin7 1,030 dollar DO I NEED TO CHANGE THE PEDAL IM GOING TO PERU INKAS TRAILS DO YOU THINK IS GOOD BUY TO TRAVEL THERE AND MAKE SOME HILLS IN MACCHU PICCHU TRAIL MOU

Hey Miguel, in my opinion, the stock pedals are perfectly fine. The only reason why you might want to change them is if you want to switch to clipless shoes and pedals. Otherwise, stick with the stock ones and enjoy your trip!

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The 10 Best Hardtail Mountain Bikes For Ripping Trails and High-Performance

Whether you want a lightweight cross-country rocket or a cheap trail ripper, one of these picks will work for you.

A “hardtail” is a mountain bike with front suspension but no rear suspension. This design can be lighter and less expensive than a mountain bike with rear suspension, as well as simpler to maintain. Think of a hardtail as the workhorse of the mountain bike world.

Sometimes hardtails are simply the best tool for the job, depending on the circumstances. For instance, those just learning to mountain bike may prefer the handling of a hardtail. Kids are often better off with a hardtail for several reasons, particularly the reduced weight. Sometimes the terrain where you ride simply doesn’t warrant a full suspension bike. Or, finally, it might be personal preference drives your desire to ride a hardtail.

Whatever the case, hardtails are alive and well, and we take a closer look at a wide range of bikes to suit your needs from the most basic to advanced racing machines.

Looking for more riding options? Check out our picks for the best electric bikes , folding e-bikes , and commuter bikes .

The Best Hardtail Mountain Bikes

• Best Overall: Specialized Rockhopper Elite 29
• Best Electric Hardtail Mountain Bike: Aventon Ramblas
• Best Trail Hardtail Mountain Bike: Trek Roscoe 7
• Best Hardtail Mountain Bike Deal: Salsa Rangefinder 29 Deore
• Best Cheap Hardtail Mountain Bike: Eastern Alpaka 29

What to Consider in a Hardtail Mountain Bike

Why you can trust us, how we tested hardtail mountain bikes, our full hardtail mountain bike reviews.

If you are looking for the best high-performance mountain bikes (full suspension and hardtail, electric and analog), check out our Bike Awards coverage. You’ll find 11 exceptional, award-winning bikes rigorously vetted by our editorial team.

If you’re in search of an efficient race machine, a carbon fiber hardtail might be the bike for you. Hardtails also make great adventure bikes for bikepacking off-road and other long-distance riding shenanigans. Build a hardtail with a longer-travel fork and wide tires and you’ll have a fun ripper for romping around your local trails —and you’ll save money and weight compared to many full suspension options.

For decades, hardtails have appealed to riders due to the infinite ways you can build them up and for their simplicity. Here’s what you need to know about hardtail mountain bikes.

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You almost always get more bang for your buck with a hardtail. The design allows manufacturers to either reduce the bike’s overall price or include better components than you would find on comparably priced full-suspension rigs.

Hardtail frames lack rear shocks, pivots, linkages, and the associated hardware. Thus, they are generally lighter than comparable full-suspension frames. For riders who climb a lot, the weight saving can make a difference—both physically and mentally. 

Carbon fiber frames have the best strength-to-weight ratio of any material but are typically more expensive than metal-framed bikes. Despite this, there are desirable characteristics in all frame materials.

Wheel Sizes

Hardtails come with many wheel sizes and gearing options. You’ll find wheel sizes of 29- or 27.5-inches, standard tire widths (up to 2.6-inches), plus-size (2.8- to 3-inches), and fat tires (3-inches and wider). Some hardtails will accept different wheel and tire sizes, allowing you to swap out options to suit your riding needs.

Great for Kids and Tweens

The explosive growth of youth cycling programs and NICA (National Interscholastic Cycling Association) racing got a ton of kids onto the trail and needing mountain bikes. With their combination of lightweight, lower cost, and wheel size options, hardtails make ideal bikes for young riders starting out or teens who quickly outgrow bikes.

Maintenance and Durability

Fewer moving parts mean fewer things that could potentially go wrong, and higher-quality parts mean those parts are less likely to need fixing. The simplicity of not having a rear shock and rear suspension system increases the durability of the bike as it requires less maintenance and fewer replacement parts.

Ride Quality

A hardtail can feel more responsive than a dual-suspension bike when pedaling. The lack of rear suspension creates a more efficient-feeling pedaling platform, so acceleration feels more immediate. 

Climbers especially appreciate the extra responsiveness, though you lose some traction (especially under braking) without the rear suspension. Still, for a fast, efficient ride, nothing beats a hardtail.

Find the Right Fork

After the frame, the fork is arguably the most important part of a hardtail's build kit. You’ll find suspension forks with as little as 80mm of travel on some cross-country bikes, while trail or all-mountain hardtails may have forks with 140mm of travel or more. 

Some hardtails still use forks that lack any suspension. These rigid forks are typically the lightest weight and require no maintenance.

Build One Up

Hardtails also make an excellent second, third...or 10th bike to have around—to loan to friends, for when your primary bike is in the shop, or for dabbling into other areas of riding. 

Many brands (particularly small or mid-sized) offer frame-only options that you can build up on your own or with the help of your local shop. Perhaps you have some old parts kicking around and collecting dust. Well, hardtails are a simple and cost-effective way to put those parts to use!

Bicycling has been vetting and reviewing bikes, gear, and accessories for more than 50 years. The bike recommendations here are based on the extensive work of the test team, which includes Deputy Editor Tara Seplavy, Senior Test Editor Matt Phillips, Test Editor Dan Chabonov, and Maintenance Editor Gabe Ortiz. Together, they have more than 60 years of ride-testing experience and insight that they bring to every recommendation they make.

For hardtail mountain bikes, Tara Seplavy oversaw these selections based on the team’s collective testing experience, as well as her own extensive knowledge of the category.

Chris Case has been riding and racing all manner of bikes for over 30 years. His first “real” bikes were mountain bikes; his racing days began on the rooted trails of southern New England. Formerly the managing editor of VeloNews magazine, he now guides gravel cycling and bikepacking tours with his company Alter Exploration . His garage is filled with his family’s precious collection of bikes, neatly organized and maintained for daily riding, racing, and adventures. Follow him on Instagram at @chrisjustincase .

Many of these bikes were tested by Bicycling 's team of gear editors, which mapped out rides featuring most of the trail elements that you’ll likely encounter. Bikes were pushed hard on flow trails, up steep climbs, down pucker-worthy rocky descents, and through rock gardens. Editors rode these bikes on the terrain best suited for each bike, as well as terrain entirely unsuitable, to see how far the limits could be pushed.

The bikes that weren’t ridden by Bicycling ’s editors were carefully chosen based on their value, quality of parts, our experience riding similar models, and how the overall package meets the needs of the intended rider.

We also consulted with hardtail devotees and coaches who work with junior riders to assess the best choices for younger and beginner cyclists.

Specialized Rockhopper Elite 29

The Rockhopper has been a mainstay of Specialized’s product line longer than most mountain bikers have been alive. The brand spent decades perfecting the Rockhopper into the well-rounded mountain bike platform it is today. And that experience—paired with learnings from its World Cup-winning high-end bikes—translates into a refined quality on the trail.

“The Rockhopper Elite climbs efficiently, is quite capable on singletrack, and isn’t too nervous when descending,” said test rider Tara Seplavy, Bicycling ’s deputy editor.

That is to say, it does everything decently—a quality many buyers in this price range want and expect from a mountain bike.

While the Rockhopper’s frame lacks a tapered headtube and thru axle rear end, the bike strikes a modern and lightweight appearance. The frame has routing for a dropper seatpost (if you wish to add one), its cables route internally on the front triangle, and it has rack mounts.

The components on the Rockhopper Elite don’t jump out, but they also don’t let you down. The air-sprung RockShox Judy TK fork does not perform to the level of the higher-end Recon fork model (more flex under braking and harsher riding). But it is easy to set up for different weight riders and has a crown-mounted lockout for pavement sections.

Specialized offers a bevy of Rockhopper models between $650 and $1,400. We consider the Comp ($950), Elite ($1,150), and Expert ($1,300) models most suitable for trail riding. Specialized also has 27.5-inch wheel Rockhopper variants in these models to fit shorter-height riders.

Aventon Ramblas

With its torquey mid-drive motor, name-brand components, and $2,700 price tag, Aventon’s Ramblas hardtail looks to flip the script and change the perception of hardtail e-bikes—and it succeeds.

At the heart of the Ramblas is Aventon’s all-new A100 motor. The mid-drive unit features 250 watts of sustained power/750 watts of peak power and 100 Newton/meters of torque. It is cleanly mounted to the Ramblas’ front triangle, low-slung on the frame but with sufficient clearance for riding over rocks and logs.

“The bike felt comfortable, proportional, and balanced from the first rip around the trailhead,” Seplavy said.

The Ramblas is well-appointed for its price. Overall, the components are well-suited for a trail-use mountain bike—1x12 SRAM Eagle drivetrain, 4-piston SRAM brakes, 35mm stanchion RockShox fork, dropper seatpost, and 2.4-inch-wide tires. They are all underpinnings of a solid mid-range trail bike—and for a $2,700 hardtail e-MTB, these features are unmatched in the market.

“After riding the Ramblas and checking out other hardtail e-MTBs over the past several years, I think Aventon just reset the entire category with this bike,” Seplavy said.

Trek Roscoe 7

There is so much to love about this bike that it’s hard to decide where to start. The 12-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain (with a 30T chainring and 10-51T cassette) provides a massive range, with gearing low enough to ease the pain of climbing steep hills. Its 29-inch wheels (27.5-inch on XS size) carry speed while maintaining maneuverability on technical trails, and the 2.6-inch tubeless-ready tires offer great traction and a plush ride.

The 140mm travel RockShox Recon SL SoloAir fork has plenty of travel for getting rowdy and can be locked out for added efficiency, such as when climbing a paved road. And speaking of rowdy, a dropper post is a very cool addition and adds to the Roscoe's versatility.

Salsa Rangefinder 29 Deore

The Salsa Rangefinder is one of the least expensive bikes in this test and one of the heaviest. Neither significantly takes away from its abilities on the trail.

“I was pleasantly surprised by the Rangefinder’s performance in most situations,” Seplavy said.

The Rangefinder’s extra heft comes from its oversized aluminum frame, heavy 120mm SR Suntour XCM fork, extra-wide range cassette, and 29x2.6-inch Maxxis tires. These parts, though, also make the Salsa more confident and capable on the trail than the bike’s weight might suggest.

On dirt, the Rangefinder lumbers along. It’s also not light or race-oriented. As Seplavy put it: “The Salsa is not a ‘go fast and take chances’ style bike.”

The Rangefinder's slightly upright positioning, steep seat angle, and low gearing allow you to sit and spin up climbs, despite the bike’s weight.

The Rangefinder is capable, though not fully confident when descending. The wide Maxxis Rekon tires and thru axle fork provide extra grip over roots and precision when picking a line through rocky sections of trail. But the Tektro Gemini brakes with 160mm rotors are insufficient at higher speeds or when the gradient pitches steeply downward. The fork’s lack of damping adjustment also made the fork ping-pong off of rocks when they came in quick succession.

Salsa provides options for riders seeking a Shimano-equipped Rangefinder or one with plus-sized wheels. It offers three other Rangefinder models between $900 and $1,500. Each model has 27.5+ or 29-inch wheel variants. There are Shimano Deore 10 -, 11 -, and 12-speed drivetrain Rangefinder models.

Eastern Bikes Alpaka 29

The Alpaka boasts features that try to emulate a high-end experience at an entry-level price. The aluminum frame is paired with a 100mm travel spring coil fork with a mechanical lockout feature. Stopping power comes from 160mm hydraulic disc brakes with adjustable reach levers.

The 9-speed X-Gear drivetrain is compatible with Shimano and SRAM aftermarket parts. But the 11-34-tooth cassette matched with a 32-tooth chainring up front will limit your ability to climb the steepest pitches.

While the bike‘s quick release hubs are not as secure or fashionable as thru axle wheels, they get the job done at the price. And though the Kenda 2.2-inch tires provide ample traction, the frame is designed to accommodate up to 2.4-inch rubber if you need more cushion and grip.

The cockpit comprises Eastern-branded contact points along with a Velo saddle and grips, completing the package with a touch of comfort not often seen at this price.

Giant Talon 29 1

The Giant Talon 1 is the biggest sleeper in our testing. The Talon’s frame doesn’t have an aggressive trail bike silhouette. It does not look oversized and burly. The plain black paint and blue logo also help to subdue the Giant. Appearances and first looks are often deceiving.

“Once on the trail, the Talon 1 surprised me with its capabilities. It rides like a bike that should cost a couple of hundred dollars more,” Seplavy said.

The Giant’s good ride feel comes down to its fork. The house-brand 100mm travel SXC-32-2 RL fork features 32mm aluminum stanchions, an alloy steerer, and an air spring. These shave weight off the bike while improving stiffness and steering precision. The fork’s rebound adjustment and air spring help you tune the fork for your weight and local trails—a big plus for a bike at this price.

The Tektro M275 brakes on the Talon 1, however, were underwhelming. They slowed the bike down but lacked modulation and a good feel at the lever. The Deore 10-speed drivetrain shifted smoothly but was over-geared for steeper hills compared to the other bikes tested.

Giant offers three models in the Talon range, with the Talon 1 as the most expensive and best equipped for trail riding. For a more premium Giant hardtail trail bike, check out the Fathom 29 models . Starting at $1,500, the Fathoms have longer travel forks, tubeless tires, and dropper posts.

Liv Lurra 2 27.5

The Lurra 2 is Liv’s latest creation for the value-minded hardtail fan.

Designed for performance-minded trail riders who want to rip singletrack, the Lurra offers dedicated frame geometry for the XS and S frame sizes which boast 27.5-inch wheels. Up front, the 130mm Giant fork and 2.6-inch Maxxis tubeless tires offer grip and comfort for roots, rocks, and ruts, and the Giant Contact 100mm dropper seatpost is a nice touch, allowing you to get low and ride with more control. Equipped with a Shimano Deore drivetrain and Tektro disc brakes, the pair offer dependability rather than flash.

The Lurra is generously adorned with multiple water bottle mounts: a set underneath the top tube allows for secure mounting of a small gear pack to fill with snacks or tools or other small items, while a trio on the downtube and another set underneath the downtube allow for multiple mounting positions of two water bottles.

Zize Yonder

While most brands make bikes rated for riders up to 200 or 250 pounds, Zize exclusively focuses on bikes for heavyweight riders. With its chromoly frame and fork, heavy-duty wheels, and Clark's hydraulic disc brakes, the Yonder accommodates riders up to 550 pounds.

The Yonder also features a 100mm wide bottom bracket shell and 3-inch wide 26-inch WTB tires for added rider stability. The bike has a dependable Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain, but the gear range is not low enough for optimal riding up steep hills. Though the Yonder is expensive, consider this bike if you're a heavier rider looking to get into off-road riding.

Specialized Riprock

The Riprock 24 is an excellent bike for kids who want to take their riding skills off-road. Designed to accommodate riders between 3-foot-11 and 4-foot-8, this bike comes with 24-inch wheels, a 1x9-speed MicroShift group, and hydraulic disc brakes.

While many mountain bikes for kids use a suspension fork, the Riprock 24 features an aluminum rigid fork. Most bikes at this price use heavy suspension forks that don't work for lightweight riders, but the Specialized’s rigid fork saves weight and looks great. This makes the Riprock 24 well-equipped for young riders' trail riding adventures. Offered in four colors, this bike is also available with 20-inch wheels for riders between 3-foot-5 and 4-foot-4.

Cervélo ZHT-5 GX

Yes, you’re reading that right: Cervélo makes mountain bikes. Though the brand may be more famous as the bike sponsor of the Tour de France-winning Visma-Lease a Bike race team, Cervélo has created this podium-worthy ride for ripping on the dirt.

Sporting a 907-gram (claimed) carbon frame, 69-degree head angle, and long reach top tubes, the ZHT-5 is made for speed. This SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed equipped model also comes standard with a 100mm travel RockShox Sid SL Select fork, e.thirteen TRS Race tubeless wheels, and a RaceFace cockpit.

Expert Chris Case On When to Go Full Suspension Versus Hardtail And Whether to Choose Aluminum Or Carbon.

Is full suspension better than a hardtail.

It depends on the application and terrain. Of course, there are certain types of riding when a full suspension bike is going to provide a faster, safer, and more enjoyable experience—for example, on rockier, more technical downhills. 

Conversely, some situations and locations are better suited to hardtails, for instance, in places where non-technical trails are abundant. If bikepacking is your thing, hardtails can be easier to load up with gear since the opening of the main triangle is easier to fill with a frame bag. But that’s not to say a full-suspension rig won’t work for bikepacking.

Much of the time it’s either personal preference or budget.

Aluminum or carbon?

There are pros and cons to every frame material. Carbon is typically lighter, can dampen more vibrations, and so forth, but if you’re hard on your equipment or crash often, the chances of causing irreparable damage to a carbon frame are higher than with metal frames.

Aluminum is often heavier, and some will say it offers a stiffer, less comfortable ride. But when you factor in saddle choice, tire size and pressure, and the comfort of other touchpoints, it’s hard to isolate the variable of the frame as the only factor on how a bike feels.

I prefer riding metal bikes (titanium) because we have enough disposable stuff in this world already. And carbon is ultimately disposable. Eventually, there will come a time when it is either outdated or broken, and you can either dispose of it or hang it on your wall. I look forward to the day when I can give my titanium bike to my daughter for her to ride.

What do the pros ride?

It used to be that XC racers wanted the lightest machine possible, which was often the hardtail model. Now, however, though many of them still care about weight, there are incredibly light full-suspension race bikes, and having suspension is helpful on the manufactured and natural courses that pros tend to race on (at World Cups, for example).

Chris Case, former managing editor of VeloNews magazine, has been riding, racing, and adventuring by bike for nearly 30 years. His cycling pursuits have taken him to destinations across the U.S. and Europe, Taiwan, Costa Rica, Israel, and beyond. He has stood on the podium at several cyclocross national championships, and is a silver medalist at master’s cyclocross worlds. Today he guides adventurous gravel cycling and bikepacking tours through his company, Alter Exploration.

As Deputy Editor, Tara Seplavy leads Bicycling’s product test team; after having previously led product development and sourcing for multiple bike brands, run World Championship winning mountain bike teams, wrenched at renowned bicycle shops in Brooklyn, raced everything from criteriums to downhill, and ridden bikes on six different continents (landing herself in hospital emergency rooms in four countries and counting). Based in Easton, Pennsylvania, Tara spends tons of time on the road and trail testing products. A familiar face at cyclocross races, crits, and bike parks in the Mid Atlantic and New England, on weekends she can often be found racing for the New York City-based CRCA/KruisCX team. When not riding a bike, or talking about them, Tara listens to a lot of ska, punk, and emo music, and consumes too much social media.  

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Cervelo ZFS-5 120 XO cross country mountain bike review

Resplendent in black, the cervelo zfs-5 120 xo axs is one stealthy bike. we are loving the zfs-5, read more to learn about this incredible bike..

Photographer: Gerard Lagana | Words: Mike Blewitt

Tester : Mike Blewitt

Riding Experience : Many years staunchly grounded on XC bikes

Generally Rides : Factor Lando XC, Norco Revolver 120 HT

Height : 178cm

Weight : 72kg

Bike Test Track : Greater Brisbane

Cervelo are known in the bike world as a no-compromise road, triathlon, cyclocross and gravel brand. As a premium bike manufacturer Cervelo don't do entry level bikes, they excel at high performance bikes driven by refined design. If they came out with a slogan that 'Life is a race' it wouldn't be a huge surprise – they chase outright performance with their designs, and they deliver. In the World Tour, they won all three grand tours in 2023 – which is pretty impressive. But as far as we are concerned, 2023 was exciting as they released their first full-suspension mountain bike the ZHS-5. The full-carbon, cross-country mountain bike arrived in the wake of the release of their hardtail mountain bike, the ZHT-5
.

There have been examples of road-biased brands venturing off road in the past. But more recently we have seen deep levels of investment in these dirty forays. Wilier have a World Cup XCO team that has racked up a number of victories, and the new Pinarello Dogma XC hardtails and full-suspension bikes are doing quite well indeed under the likes of Pauline Ferrand-Prevot and Tom Pidcock. Their designs are far better than seen from Pinarello in previous attempts. Ridley have another iteration of their XC bike out now, and Factor also have their Lando XC and FS, both of which I tested in 2022. And I know call a Factor Lando XC my own, with a bit of a custom build.

Making a full-suspension cross-country bike is a logical step for entrenched road brands. It's a bike for their existing drop bar market, who may choose to venture off-road to tackle the Cape Epic, Swiss Epic, or even BC Bike Race or something more adventurous. But the recent crop of bikes from the aforementioned brands are not messing around, with truly capable and highly refined designs landing on the dirt.

Cervelo have a range of six bikes in the ZFS-5 line up, in both 100/100mm builds, and 120/115mm builds. The frame on each build is the same, but the parts spec are different, with the suspension changes impacting the geometry and handling. Pricing starts at $17000 for the top spec 100mm build with SRAM's XX SL, dropping all the way to $7800 for the GX Eagle equipped 100mm version. The 120 XO AXS model I have on test sells for $12000, with XO Transmission, Fox Performance Elite suspension, an AXS Reverb dropper and lovely Reserve carbon wheels.

Cervelo state that the ZFS-5 is 'progressive but racy' being aimed at tackling hard XCO courses. I think the 120mm models like I have on test could be a perfect match for tackling some of Australia's XC events and global stage races. But the proof would be in the ride.

Initial Impressions

Resplendent in black, the Cervelo ZFS-5 120 XO AXS is one stealthy bike. The frame has slender tubes with neat internal routing, and a svelte alloy swing link for the shock. The matte black finish means you look past a lot of the detail, but the frame quality and build is impressive. Yes, it looks a lot like a Santa Cruz Blur, and they have the same parent company. The Blur TR as comparison is a little steeper with less bottom bracket drop and a lower head tube, along with an overall shorter wheelbase. It also has internal routing via ports behind the head tube and two carbon variants. Similar, yes – but different handling and options.

The frame itself uses a flexstay, with the post mount rear brake being a separate mount to allow the flex point to work, while also allowing the use of a 4-piston brake and potentially a 180mm rotor. XC riders deserve to stop, too. The chain stay has plenty of chain slap protection as well, that didn't budge all test. There is clearance for the stock 2.4” tyres, and the bike can take upto a 38t chain ring, which is important for a bike designed for World Cup performance. There is a OneUp chain guide as well, a nice touch as dropped chains do not mix well with racing. Cervelo use a Universal Derailleur Hanger as you would expect, and of course there is no hanger with the stock XO Transmission group set. The frame uses a threaded bottom bracket, and there are mounts on the down tube and seat tube for water bottle cages – a perfect match for anyone tackling stage races and marathons, or getting the training hours in for XCO.

I'm not a huge fan of cables or hoses going through the headset. It is very neat, and while it is just one hose thanks to the AXS drivetrain and dropper, that brake hose still goes through the headset bearing. With the SRAM Level Silver Stealth levers there's not much extra hose – but you'll need some when it comes time for a new headset bearing and the hose must be cut and then reconnected with fresh hardwear – expect to lose

10-15mm each time you do this. It may not happen a lot in our dry(ish) environment, but this move by the bike industry puts increased service costs on the end user.

While $12000 is no small amount of money, you don't always get the exact spec you want with race level bikes unless you get the top dog. And wheels are an area that often gets something 'pretty good'. Not so on the Cervelo, with Reserve Carbon XC|28 wheels. They're light at around 1450g, with a 28mm internal width rim laced to DT Swiss 350 hubs with 24 spokes each end. Wrapped in 60tpi Maxxis Rekon 2.4 3C tyres, it's a wheel system that is ready to rock.

The Float DPS is the higher volume model, with a two position switch to firm it up, plus another option to tweak compression damping to three levels. There's routing for a remote lock out shock, but only the 100mm builds have those. The fork is a Fox 34 SC in 120mm with a 44mm offset to match the 66.6 degree head angle.

With the clean AXS setup, the Race Face cockpit with low-rise 780mm carbon bar and short 60mm stem all falls into place well. The 780mm bar is a very comfortable width, but those going bar-to-bar may wish to trim it a little to suit. The Prologo saddle, svelte grips and long-ish 125mm AXS dropper are all brilliant finishing parts to a thoroughly specced bike.

At 11.41kg our large test bike is pretty light, considering the AXS dropper isn't a fly weight and the Maxxis Rekon tyres are pretty chonky. But it is a very capable build. With suspension set at 145psi in the rear and 78psi in the fork, I fitted my pedals and a couple of cages and hit the trails.

On The Trail

The Cervelo is hands down one of the quietest bikes I have ridden. While this was evident by the end of the test after many hours aboard the ZFS-5, even my first ride was impressive. Sure, an AXS drivetrain and dropper means there's not many cable outers or hoses to rattle, but with such slick shifting from the Transmission group set, zero chain slap and just very neat finishing on the bike, it all adds up.

My first impressions on the bike were that it felt quite tall – I had dropped the stem below a spacer, but the riser bar still gives a higher position to my normal setup. More telling is the bottom bracket drop and head tube height, which are both more than my regular ride. Throw in a slightly shorter reach at 457mm on large and a 66.6 degree head angle on the 120mm models and your position on the ZFS-5 is very centered and planted. Many might expect an XC bike from a brand known for road bikes to be skittish and nervous – but initial handling had no signs of that. With a 75 degree seat tube angle it is easy to stay centered, and it is pleasing to see Cervelo implementing size specific chain stays to maintain balance across the four sizes. The large has 437mm stays, which are pretty middle-of-the-road in this class of bike.

I have ridden on 2.4” Maxxis tyres, wide carbon wheels and with a Fox 34 SC and DPS shock for much of the past few years, so these items are very familiar. However, the newest Float DPS shock has a bigger aircan which can allow lower pressure. With about 20% less than in my own DPS shock, the ride dynamic is noticeably plusher than on my Factor Lando XC – by all accounts a comparable bike being a 120/115mm travel bike from a road brand. The ride is so supple on trail chatter and small bumps that I stopped more than once to check whether I had too much sag, or a slow leak in the back tyre. While the shock tune may differ on the 100mm builds, on this model you end up with a bike that takes out so many small bumps that comfort is incredible, and so is traction.

While I haven't been riding my best in a horribly humid and sticky Queensland summer, I still gave a few Prs a nudge on the Cervelo ZFS-5, and I think that is due to how well it feels planted to the ground for traction. But it is anything but a barge. Use the leverage of the wider bars, and the agility that the moderate reach provides and you have an agile bike that has plenty of pop when you load up the suspension. This bike comes alive when you switch out of passenger mode and opt to work the trail. While that is the remit of many short travel, aggressive trail bikes, it is not normally matched with the ability to ride efficiently and comfortably as well – which is a trait that any endurance athlete will find attractive for a bike that may be used for events with 4-6 hours in the saddle.

On the climbs, the centered position and 32t chain ring meant I felt like I could climb anything, being forward enough with ample gears thanks to the 10-52 Transmission cassette. I'd likely prefer a 34 or 36t chain ring, but that is a personal choice depending on terrain, fitness and event focus. The suspension does pedal very well, but I preferred to reach for the lock out when riding to the trail or on long, smoother climbs. On anything with some bumps, the suspension stayed open, with the opportunity for gobs more traction being far more appealing to getting rid of any movement. While I can see that the 100mm models have remote lock out, no dropper and therefore more of a race focus – I cannot ever see the 120/115mm being a trail bike. Instead, I see them as the modern choice for many endurance mountain bikers, with more travel at little weight penalty. So it is a shame that the 120 models don't have remote lock out. Similarly, it is surprising to see the 100mm models without a dropper. Cervelo are backing a number of top Australian mountain bikers, and while most are on 100mm variants, some have 110mm forks, all have dropper posts and all use remote lock outs across their custom builds.

When descending, the Cervelo is highly impressive. The Float DPS really excels here, and so does that extra bit of bottom bracket drop, keeping the bike planted into corners when the pedals are weighted. Being so light it responds well to input, but at times I did find the front end started to feel vague – specifically in rockier corners or at higher speeds trying to chase friends with more talent. Being familiar with the bars, tyres and fork, I looked to the 24 spoke wheels and slender frame. Neither ever felt flexy, but at the points when chasing friends on downcountry bikes, something in the front end wasn't feeling as tight as it should be. And that's ok – this isn't a trail bike, nor a downcountry bike. The Cervelo ZFS-5 120 XO is a cross-country super bike with a bit more travel and a very plus trail feel.

Our Take It should be no surprise that the Cervelo ZFS-5 is a high performance cross-country platform. While some may expect a mountain bike from a drop bar specialist to be twitchy and underdone, nothing could be further from the truth. If you are looking for a bike to take to Reef to Reef, or across to the Volcanic Epic, Cape Epic, Breck Epic – or anything epic – the Cervelo ZFS-5 can be that bike. The ZFS-5 120 XO AXS is a premium 120/115mm travel bike that brings high level design and production into one of the most exquisitely finished bikes I have ridden here at AMB. While my personal preferences may see a few subtle changes to the cockpit, tyres and gearing, the reality is this bike is ready to go from stock.

Much like other bikes such as the Orbea Oiz, Norco Revolver, Factor Lando XC and Pivot Mach 4 SL, the two travel variants are based on the one frame design with a different rear shock stroke and fork. So an investment in a ZFS-5 isn't a restriction to one variant or another. That said, I think the 120 models would be a popular choice for many riders looking at a new top-spec cross-country bike. While this model is far from cheap at $12000, it does represent great value when compared with similarly specced bikes. Cervelo state that they wanted it to be racy and progressive, and ready for modern XCO courses. I think it caters for XCO racers at the World Cup – but more importantly, the Cervelo ZFS-5 is a stand out choice for those doing battle from club races through to global marathon and stage race events. The ZFS-5 would be a standout choice if a capable cross-country bike is in your sights.

Full Specs on the Cervelo ZFS-5

Brand Cervelo

Model ZFS-5 120 XO

Weight 11.41kg (as tested)

From cervelo.com/en-AU

Available Sizes S, M, L (tested), XL

Frame Material Carbon fiber

Fork Fox Float 34 SC Performance Elite, 120mm

Shock Fox Float Performance Elite, 190x45 (115mm)

Shifter SRAM AXS Rocker

Derailleur SRAM AXS XO T-type

Crank SRAM XO T-type, 175mm, 32t

Bottom bracket SRAM DUB BSA threaded

Chain SRAM XO 12sp

Cassette SRAM XO T-type 10-52 12sp

Wheel Set Reserve 28|XC on DT Swiss 350

Tyres Maxxis Rekon 29 x 2.4” EXO, 60tpi

Brakes SRAM Level Silver Stealth, 4 piston, 180/160mm

Stem Race Face Aeffect 60mm, 35mm clamp

Handlebars Race Face Next R Carbon, 780mm, 20mm rise

Seatpost RockShox Reverb AXS 125mm drop, 30.9mm

Saddle Prologo Dimension ND

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‘Incredible people’: Bike riders raise awareness of Parkinson’s in cross-country trek

Three bike riders, each suffering from Parkinson’s disease, rode through Red Rock Canyon as part of a mission to raise awareness about Parkinson’s disease.

Three cyclists hopped on their bikes for a trip through Red Rock Canyon early Sunday morning, but it wasn’t just any ride — it was part of a mission to raise awareness about Parkinson’s disease.

The three, who each suffer from the disease, are on the Las Vegas leg of a cross-country journey after logging 2,000 miles since leaving Virginia on May 1.

Bill Bucklew, 54, of Chicago, Steve Iseman, 58, and Li Jiang, 33, both of Toronto, were joined by riders Pat Donahoo, 66, of Las Vegas, Aiden Woodley, 21, of Chicago and Iseman’s son, Jett, 22, who do not have the disease, on the 31-mile bike trip that included the Red Rock Loop.

Known as The Long Ride for Parkinson’s, the purpose of the grueling trek, on paved and gravel roads, flats and hills, is to raise awareness about the nervous system disorder that usually affects people after age 60, causing limb tremors, problems walking and muscle stiffness, according to the Mayo Clinic .

The team, seeking to end their trip in San Diego before July 4, is out to show that having Parkinson’s doesn’t necessarily mean giving up challenging and demanding physical exercise or losing a positive outlook on life.

“So we started at the Boardwalk in Virginia and we’re well over 2,000 miles now, across the country,” Bucklew said. “We’ve been in at least six states and stuck our toe in maybe one or two additional and we’ve seen everything from incredible weather to beautiful vistas to incredible people who have helped us.”

The ride does have its ups and downs.

“We had one day where we’d done a tremendous amount of due diligence to see that it was paved road and it ended up being 75 percent gravel,” Bucklew said. “We had eight flat tires amongst the team and luckily we had enough inner tubes to keep going.”

“And then we’ve had days where we’re just mostly downhill descent, and you just feel great,” he said.

The riders rest along the way in hotels and Airbnb rentals, and a motor home that sleeps six accompanies them, said their volunteer driver, Mike Morris, 62, of Michigan.

Bucklew, who now is unable to walk due to his symptoms, said it’s extremely taxing for him each morning, when his muscles are very stiff and he must spend two hours stretching to find relief — as well as treating small blisters — prior to mounting his recumbent trike to resume the trip.

“We always try to get out around 7:30 a.m., but every day is different,” he said.

Power of exercise

Bucklew, Iseman and Jiang, who conquered the Appalachian Mountains, travel 60-something miles a day and have grown their muscle strength over the last month. That’s part of the group’s message: Exercise is great for battling the disease.

“We come from a variety of backgrounds, but the only thing that slows Parkinson’s disease currently is exercise,” Bucklew said. “So one of the things we’re trying to highlight is you don’t need to ride a bike across America to get the level of exercise to see an improvement. But all three of us have seen tremendous improvements in our own lives with the disease through regular exercise.”

His nonprofit organization, Uncorked Adventures, was created with the goal of raising awareness and funds for research to cure Parkinson’s. The organization is donating the funds it receives to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s and the Davis Phinney Foundation for Parkinson’s, Bucklew said.

Iseman, a devoted cyclist, said he is living proof that exercise is a great benefit to those with Parkinson’s.

Two years ago, he permitted researchers to conduct tests on his body before and after strenuous activity, “and they were able to conclude that not only can you arrest the development, you can reverse it. You can reverse it to a degree, and there is nothing else that has that sort of effect.”

‘We want to set examples for people’

Donahoo, an avid bike rider, and his wife, Cidney, 61, who has Parkinson’s, are both “ambassadors” from their Summerlin home for the Davis Phinney Foundation, serving as advocates for those with the neurological disorder.

Among the local events he has helped promote is Parkinson’s Awareness Night at Las Vegas Aviators baseball games, Donahoo said.

One day after visiting a clinic for her Parkinson’s in 2011, Cidney told her husband, “I’m going to ride my bike across Iowa,” he said. “I said, ‘If she’s going to do it, I’m going to do it.’ And we’ve done Iowa 11 times.”

Jiang said she was diagnosed with the disease at the unusually early age of 21.

“For many people with Parkinson’s, when they are diagnosed, they withdraw from their job, they withdraw from their family, friends, they withdraw from their hobbies and their world shrinks,” Jiang said.

But later she got into cycling weekly with Iseman in Toronto, and “now I like to try crossing the country with cycling,” Jiang said. “That’s a huge growth for myself.”

“We want to set examples for people so they can get inspired to do new things — to do things they love,” Jiang said.

Contact Jeff Burbank at [email protected] or 702-383-0382. Follow him @JeffBurbank2 on X.

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