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Our team of testers spent months weighing, measuring, analyzing, and riding these bikes to compile this list of the best trail bikes, enduro rigs, hardtails, fat bikes, and budget mountain bikes.
Credit: Laura Casner
By Joshua Hutchens ⋅ Senior Review Editor ⋅ Updated April 14, 2025
Whether you seek adrenaline or quiet time in nature, a quality mountain bike can help you escape into the woods to enjoy some cardio and trail time. Our team of testers lives for mountain biking; we spend an inordinate amount of time and energy seeking the perfect line and bike to ride it.
For trail riding without limitations, our favorite trail bike is the Ibis Ripmo V3 GX AXS. It's as versatile as it is capable, with the latest in geometry and kinematics. There are models of this bike at almost every price point.
Want something different? The Revel Rascal XO Transmission doesn't have wild looks, but its performance is out of this world. There's more to those suspension acronyms than hype, and Revel's CBF suspension is incredibly good.
We understand how daunting it is to shop for a mountain bike. Comprehending all of the nuances of geometry and performance can feel overwhelming, but we're here to help. Of the dozens of mountain bikes we've tested, these are the standout favorites. We've tested other gear, like the best bike helmets, top mountain bike shoes, and bike racks for your vehicle.
Editor's Note: We updated this mountain bike review on April 14th, 2025, to add the new Ibis Ripmo V3.
Slays the descents but outclimbs many smaller bikes
True size-specific geometry
REASONS TO AVOID
Not the lightest bike
Fairly expensive
The Ibis Ripmo V3 GX AXS blew away the competition with its outrageous combination of climbing and descending prowess. The third iteration of the Ripmo is the best trail bike I've ever ridden. Improving on the past Rimpo wasn't a simple task, but an intense focus on the geometry of every size and features like frame storage and mixed wheel compatibility gives Ibis another home run. Simply put, this bike outrides every other bike in its category. The geometry hints at exceptional downhill handling, but the Ripmo sacrifices nothing in the climbing department.
With incredible high-speed stability and unfaltering big-hit performance, the Rimpo lets you push harder than any other bike I've ridden. Very few bikes can shake a stick at the Ripmo; the Santa Cruz Hightower is in a similar category but doesn't have the Ripmo's uphill performance and hustle. The Stumpjumper 15 is a great all-around trail bike, but the Ripmo offers the advanced rider a more aggressive platform for higher-output riding.
The Ripmo is far more athletic than its numbers indicate, with lively, energetic handling and an ultra-responsive DW-Link rear end. Every size has unique geometry that hones in on the rider's center of mass, and Ibis added an Extra Medium size to give riders between 5'8" and 6' a more dialed fit. The general scope of the geometry has slackened the front end by a half degree (now 64.5) and added it to the seat tube angle, which is size-specific. Superlatives like “quiver killer” are totally appropriate with the Ripmo, as this is one bike that can do it all well.
The Ripmo V3 is a well-balanced, aggressive trail bike with a fantastic combination of uphill and downhill performance. This bike is ideal for the rider who loves to climb but doesn't want to sacrifice performance on the way back down. “The bike is a true unicorn of engineering that I'm proud to be effusive about,” says our lead tester. Riders wanting this performance for fewer shekels should consider the aluminum-framed Ibis Ripmo AF NX.
The newest iteration of the Santa Cruz Hightower 90 is the most brawny and capable Hightower yet. With a touch more travel, the bike now sports 145mm of rear wheel travel from the 4th-generation VPP and a 160mm fork. A slack front end (64.2/63.9 degrees) and an exceptionally long wheelbase that lets it ooze confidence at high speeds. New kinematics give the bike a wide-open feel with less anti-squat, so while it has more travel, it's quicker to get on the gas. It also gives the bike a bit more traction, whether headed up or down the mountain.
Designed to be a do-everything, go-anywhere trail bike, it's not the kind of trail bike for every rider. This bike responds well to heavy input and aggressive riding styles. Less aggressive riders may find the bike to be too slack, too rowdy, and too heavy. Weighing in at over 34 pounds, before loading up the glovebox, the Hightower isn't light, but once you're up to speed, it feels anything but heavy.
Has the higher weight, slacker front end, and longer wheelbase made the bike less agile? Yes, but the trade-offs in terms of its confidence and stability make that agility feel less important. The bike still carves the corners and finesses the big lines, but with more confidence and authority.
The Hightower is available in five sizes and C or CC carbon. We tested the C frame with the SRAM 90 Mechanical Transmission kit and Maven brakes. While all of Santa Cruz's 9 build kits are quite expensive, this one feels like the best value, providing performance that won't hold you back at a price that won't end your marriage (hopefully).
Talk about punching above your weight class; the Revel Rascal XO Transmission is a wildly capable bike that employs the Canfield Brothers Formula suspension and some cutting-edge thermoset carbon technology. The geometry gives this bike a playful disposition, while its suspension allows you to test the limits of a 130mm travel bike. The bike's numbers are modern enough to make it versatile but not so modern that it loses its poppy, agile feel. Revel didn't just apply the longer/slacker formula for the update; they honed in on how a mid-travel trail bike should ride with 436mm of rear center inside its 1222mm wheelbase. The CBF suspension gives the bike phenomenal traction, whether clawing up a rooty section or braking through the chunder. "This bike reminded me of the Trek Top Fuel 9.8 GX AXS, not because of how similar its dimensions are but how dialed its geometry and kinematics are," remarked tester Joshua Hutchens. Both bikes display outstanding ride quality that their numbers alone don't allude to. Seasoned riders will be especially impressed with how isolated the suspension is from rider input. The build includes top-of-the-line suspension from RockShox and a drivetrain built for abuse.
The Rascal doesn't have adjustable geometry but new for 2025, it does get in-frame storage. While adjustable geometry can enhance a bike's versatility, we'd never complain that the Rascal isn't versatile. In fact, the bike seemed to excel in trails that were “a bit too much” for other bikes with similar geometry and travel. Conversely, the Rascal never felt like too much bike, even on mellow XC trails. If you're a performance-oriented rider seeking a bike without compromise, you'll love the Rascal; Revel even guarantees it! Our head tester had this to say, “I ride dozens of expensive mountain bikes each year, but the Rascal is a standout bike that feels worth the premium price tag.” Revel offers three complete build kits of the Rascal starting at $4500.
The Yeti SB 140 is a top-notch mid-travel trail bike that feels precise and efficient. This 140mm 29er delivers exceptional ride quality and performance that isn't totally explained by its geometry. Whether tackling steep climbs, fast-rolling flow trails, high alpine epics, or hitting the jump line, the SB140 is up for it. With excellent climbing traction and near-ideal positioning, its long 440mm chainstays keep the rear wheel planted through technical terrain and rough climbs. The Yeti is equally impressive when you point the 65-degree front end downhill, maintaining excellent small bump sensitivity throughout its travel. The headtube angle isn't extreme, giving the bike a spry, agile feel. “I loved how well-balanced the Yeti felt and how precisely it tracked,” remarked tester Joshua Hutchens. The SB140 inspires confidence in all but the steepest terrain where its speed limit feels within reach. While still a shredder, this bike feels more refined, like off-roading a Range Rover.
If you're looking for a new trail bike and want frame storage or adjustable geometry, the SB140 isn't going to wet your whistle. Similarly, if you're a more aggressive rider, you may want to keep shopping those longer, slacker rigs. “The Yeti offers agility and athleticism with less reliance on mass and travel,” wrote one of our testers. Yetis aren't cheap but complete builds of the SB140 start at $6000. Its exceptional traction allows you to push the limits of cornering and braking, making it an ideal companion for tackling most of the singletrack terrain in North America. Hop aboard a Yeti SB140 and enjoy how this bike deftly handles trail duty. If that all sounds great, but you want something a bit more rowdy, check out the Ibis Ripmo V3 GX AXS or Specialized Stumpjumper 15 Comp
Mino-Link provides adjustable geometry and leverage
BITS bag with downtube storage
Can be run with 130/140mm suspension
Mullet (MX) wheel compatible
REASONS TO AVOID
Wheels are heavier than we'd like
Short saddle isn't for everyone
The latest generation of the Trek Top Fuel 9.8 GX AXS delivers modern geometry and some slick updates. Now labeled as a “down-country” bike—though that term can be a bit puzzling, the 120mm OCLV carbon trail bike isn't shy on capability. The bike crushes the ascents, rivaling a modern XC ride's quick, responsive handling and a remarkably supportive pedaling platform. Handling is nimble and quick, with a 76.3-degree seat tube angle that helps you maintain your pedaling power efficiently, even on steep grades.
Descending prowess is enhanced by the ABP suspension that decouples braking forces from the suspension. A headtube angle of 65.9 degrees slows the steering enough to get rowdy without affecting its spectacular climbing performance. A wheelbase of 1227mm provides stability and a higher speed limit than you might imagine. "While testing, I felt the “short travel” designation sold the bike short; the Top Fuel has flow, finesse, and true trail pedigree," says tester Joshua Hutchens.
A clever 4-way Mino-Link lets you adjust the geometry and desired leverage, and Trek also made the bike compatible with a longer shock and fork to let you run 130 / 140mm travel. Big wheels are fitted to M, ML, L, and XL models, while the S gets 27.5" wheels; the former are mullet (MX) compatible. Frame storage with the Bontrager Bits keeps your tube and tools organized and quiet.
The Top Fuel is a well-balanced trail bike with abundant adjustability. One of our testers said, “It challenges the assumption that trail bikes should have more travel.” Trek is so sure of the bike that it's backed with a 30-day Unconditional Guarantee.
Wheel Size: 29" | Weight: 33 lbs 10 oz (size large, set up tubeless)
REASONS TO BUY
Excellent Climber
Outstanding Value
Geometry keeps this bike fun at slower speeds
REASONS TO AVOID
Optimal on moderate terrain
Less aggressive rubber
Heavy for its travel
The Canyon Neuron 5 is a trail bike that leans in to its XC roots. 130mm of travel paired with slightly steeper geometry than most trail bikes give it a snappy, responsive ride quality. This bike is most fun even when the terrain isn't incredibly challenging. The Neuron resists being too long, too slack, and, as such, too extreme. Not every rider wants or needs a big travel trail slayer, and this bike is optimized for those less rowdy days in the saddle. Tester Pat Donahue had this to say about the Neuron, “The handling is crisp and responsive, and the bike climbs with the same athleticism that characterizes its ride.” Ascending trails and fire roads on this bike is a joy; the bike rewards your input. If you're less likely to steer into the chunky line or hit the trail side jumps, the Neuron has your number.
While the Neuron excels in mild terrain, steering it into the rougher, choppy bits of trail exposes its limits. The responsive geometry is overwhelmed at higher speeds. The 2.4-inch Schwalbe tread with low, efficient knobs are fast but find their speed limit when the trail gets loose or technical. Riding steep sections of trail is totally possible, but it requires more skill and courage on the rider's part. The bike's weight had little effect on how we rode it, but it did feel heavy in technical situations.
The Norco Fluid FS 4 is our pick for the best budget mid-travel mountain bike. This bike is so competent that we quickly forgot that we were riding a “budget bike.” Whether tearing down a high-speed flow trail or charging down a chunky trail, the Fluid was very composed and was as fun as a barrel of monkeys. Pair this brilliant on-trail performance with a stellar build kit that features a wide-range cassette and long-travel dropper post, and it was a very easy choice for Best Budget Mountain Bike.
Our complaints with the Fluid are all relatively minor. Our XL test bike tipped the scale at over 36 pounds, which is apparent in every aspect of its performance. We generally test large frames, so comparing the weight of this extra large frame isn't exactly apples-to-apples. “I found the climbing performance adequate, but would love to see a climb switch on the shock for use on fire roads or smooth double tracks,” says tester Pat Donahue. Budget-conscious shoppers should also check out the Polygon Siskiu T8.
Fezzari may not be a household name in the mountain bike market, but the consumer-direct brand is hoping to change that by producing quality bikes of all kinds, including the Kings Peak Comp fat bike. With a geometry reminiscent of a regular trail bike, the longer and slacker Kings Peak has a very familiar feel when the rubber hits the snow and/or dirt. Fezzari's 23-point custom setup ensures a comfortable fit, and the angles are spot on for typical fat bike riding while still being surprisingly capable when taken out of the normal fat bike comfort zone. With a sleek carbon frame and a weight of only 31 pounds, this bike pedals efficiently across virtually any surface and looks good while doing it. The frame and fork feature a wealth of mounting points for water bottles and other accessories, making it easy to gear up for bike packing or far-flung adventure rides. While not exactly flashy, the build is perfectly functional. Fezzari also offers a more expensive build and a number of component upgrades to choose from.
Aside from a couple of minor gripes, we loved the Kings Peak Comp. We love SRAM Eagle drivetrains, but the SX version isn't impressive. It works well enough, but we find the shifter particularly problematic. It's consistently hard to position it ergonomically. The slipping grips on this bike could easily be remedied with a simple pair of lock-on grips. The Clarks M2 brakes work well enough to control typical fat bike speeds, but we are unsure of their long-term performance and durability. Otherwise, this bike was excellent, and it gets our recommendation. We also recommend the Ibis Ripmo V2 XT if conditions don't require a fat tire and you want the best trail bike all around.
The Fezzari Kings Peak proved to be the best all-around fat bike we've tested.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
How We Tested
Our testing process is based on identifying the best MTB bikes on the market and putting them through extensive hands-on testing. Our team of testers ride these bikes to their limits to see how each bike performs in a wide variety of terrain. We do endless laps at bike parks, all-day epic rides, huge multi-thousand-foot climbs, and gnarly descents. Our team has been testing mountain bikes in this rigorous manner since 2017. You name it: trail bikes, enduro bikes, hardtails, fat bikes, electric mountain bikes, and mountain bikes under $3000, and we've tested them. Over the past seven years, we've spent over $200,000 purchasing the mountain bikes we review (usually at retail) to remain as objective and unbiased as possible. If we ever use a media bike or demo bike from a manufacturer, we insist on paying demo or rental fees. We're very careful about maintaining our autonomy and remaining free of influence to bring you the best and most unbiased mountain bike reviews.
Why Trust GearLab
Our Senior Mountain Bike Review Editor leads our test team. Joshua Hutchens is a lifelong mountain biker, coach, former racer, guide, and shop owner who rides with finesse and style. He's ridden hundreds of different mountain bikes over the years and can identify the subtlest nuances between the bikes he tests. For many years, Hutchens has received testing input from a diverse group of professional bike testers. Former GearLab Mountain Bike Editor turned bike shop owner, Pat Donahue is a talented rider with a preference for steep and chunky descents. He is particularly tough on and critical of the gear he uses and has a keen eye for the performance characteristics that make a great bike. Kyle Smaine was raised at the bottom of some of the area's most iconic trails. Kyle was a talented professional skier with a healthy collection of halfpipe medals. Kyle made incredible contributions to our mountain bike testing and reviews for which we are eternally grateful.
Putting the Ripmo V3 to the test.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
How to Pick the Best Mountain Bike for You
Purchasing a mountain bike is an expensive endeavor and can be downright scary. Slapping down the credit card for a large purchase requires serious research. All of this research can bring to light loads of jargon and terms. Terms like mid-travel, short-travel, and enduro are always thrown around. OutdoorGearLab is here to make sense of it all.
We will explain the different types of mountain bikes and what they are designed for. Once you settle on a bike category, you will need to consider wheel and tire sizes. 29-inch, 27.5-inch, or a mix of the two; they all have strengths and weaknesses. Female riders have to decide whether they need a women's bike or can tweak an unisex bike to fit them better. We will walk you through all of these decisions.
Types of Mountain Bikes
It is essential to be realistic about the terrain you want to ride, as the right mountain bike will vary depending on where you will ride. Determining what sort of trails you have in your hometown is important. Also, it can be worth considering if you will be regularly traveling to bike parks or trail centers.
Find your self a bike that inspires confidence.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Cross-Country Bikes
Cross-country bikes are very much a niche category. If you are reading this, chances are most of these bikes probably aren't for you. Folks interested in a true cross-country bike are likely thinking about racing and value weight and efficiency over fun, comfort, and practicality. XC bikes are fun on a more limited range of trails. Stiff and brutally efficient, cross-country bikes are either hardtails, meaning they have no rear suspension, or they have about 100mm of rear suspension. Steeper geometry, a low stem, and firm and unforgiving performance are features of these bikes.
Riders who gravitate to very smooth trails might enjoy the outright efficiency of these bikes. If you want a playful ride or live where the trails have roots and rocks, these probably aren't the best choice unless you're planning to race on the XC circuit. A short-travel trail bike is almost as efficient while offering a far more fun and capable ride.
Little playful pops a plenty, the Rascal seems to seek out the fun.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Trail Hardtails
Hardtail mountain bikes are a great option if you'd rather get out and ride than regularly tackle steep or rough terrain. Simple, low maintenance, and speedy — these no-frills bikes do not have a rear suspension but feature more aggressive trail bike geometry. As a result, they are very efficient pedallers and are perfectly capable of getting a little rad. Less experienced riders will gain valuable skills on these less forgiving bikes, which benefit from excellent line choices and proper form. Hardtail trail bikes are relatively versatile but require caution on descents, as they can be somewhat harsh. Riders who prefer to attack steeper, rougher terrain regularly should consider a full-suspension bike.
Since hardtails require less technology, they are usually less expensive than full-suspension bikes. A lower price point makes hardtails an excellent option for passionate riders on a budget. If you think these are the bikes for you, check out our review selection of hardtail mountain bikes.
This is an outstanding bike that inspires confidence.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Short-Travel Trail Bikes
Short travel bikes are excellent if you value variety and efficient climbing and aren't hell-bent on slaying descents. Short-travel trail bikes feature about 110-130mm of rear-wheel travel. They are practical for those looking for full-suspension confidence and comfort without sacrificing efficiency. Riders who like to pound out serious miles will feel comfortable aboard these short-legged steeds. Bicycles in this category would be an excellent option for those who ride flatter terrain or live in mountainous areas but don't want to push the envelope to get aggressive on the descents. Riders seeking a more well-rounded climbing/descending experience might be interested in pulling some more heft with a mid-travel bike. If this seems like the balance of bike skills you've been looking for, check out the 110 to 130mm options in our constantly updated review of trail mountain bikes. Travel numbers appear in the Suspension & Travel row of our Test Results and Rating Table.
A short-travel trail whip with excellent adjustability and a bit more bravado than most 120mm bikes.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Mid-Travel Trail Bikes
Mid-travel bikes are an MTB sweet spot perfect for anyone who destroys descents but still values climbing skills. These bikes are very versatile and provide strong performance in all areas. They balance climbing skills and descending capabilities beautifully and are comfortable on the overwhelming majority of trails. Mid-travel bikes are just as comfortable making the occasional trip to the bike park as they are doing a 30-mile trail ride. This suspension range, 130-150mm, works for a large portion of riders. If you live in a primarily flat or smooth region, these bikes could prove to be overkill. If the highlight of each of your rides is flying down the super-gnar, you should look into an enduro/long-travel rig. If you're interested in this multi-faceted and fun category, head over to our ever-evolving trail mountain bike review to read about fantastic daily drivers in the 130 to 150mm range. Find travel numbers near the bottom of the Test Results and Rating Table.
Enduro bikes are for riders who focus more on the descent than anything else.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Enduro Bikes
Enduro is an often overused buzzword, and enduro bikes love to bomb technical descents and climb just enough to get to the top. Long-travel, or enduro, bikes are awesome for those who don't mind carrying some extra bike around in the name of getting rowdy. With 150 to 170mm of travel, they pedal reasonably well, but efficiency is far from their defining trait. These bikes are not the best for long-distance rides and will not set any climbing records. Enduro bikes are designed for high speeds and rough downhills. Those looking for freeride lines or park laps will be more than comfortable aboard these shred sleds.
The SB140 gives you the confidence to make hard moves and ride steep lines.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Choosing Bike Components
Once you know what kind of mountain bike suits your riding style and terrain best, a few component decisions will help you narrow down the field considerably.
Wheel Size
Not all that long ago, all-mountain bike wheels were all 26 inches in diameter. Now, 27.5-inch and 29-inch versions are far more common on the trail. The 26-inch wheel size is all but forgotten. The benefit of bigger wheels is that they make trail features smaller by comparison. As a result, you can roll over obstacles on the trail more efficiently and with less effort. Bigger wheels are also faster and carry speed and momentum well through chunky terrain. The argument for smaller wheels is that they are easier to maneuver and, therefore, more fun. For a few short years, many riders thought 27.5-inch wheels were the sweet spot between the rollover benefits of 29ers and the agility of 26-inch bikes. Modern frame geometry has drastically improved 29" performance, enabling more precise and playful handling than ever before. Mixed-wheel sizes have become more popular. A 29-inch front wheel paired with a 27.5-inch rear is commonly referred to as a “mullet” or MX setup, with business in the front and party in the back. The idea is that it combines the best traits of both wheel sizes. The larger front wheel rolls over obstacles more easily and provides stability and confident handling, while the smaller rear wheel offers agility and maneuverability for the rear end of the bike. One may want to consider their body size when choosing a wheel size, as smaller wheels may feel more comfortable for smaller riders, while larger wheels might work better for larger riders on larger frames. Many frames now offer a few wheel-and-tire size options. It's still valuable to think through which one you want to commit to. We don't know anyone who regularly switches between wheelsets.
The Assegai delivers unrivaled cornering traction.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Tire Size and Rim Width
Normal tire widths have slowly been getting wider over time. Previously, 2.35-inch tires were considered relatively standard, but now they tend to run in the 2.4-2.6-inch range on wider rims. Wider tires have more air volume and a larger contact patch, offering increased traction and a slightly softer ride, though they may provide more resistance when heading uphill. While slightly less popular, plus-sized or mid-fat tires. These run from 2.8 inches to 3 inches. We like the 2.8-inch versions as they offer traction and often give you defined cornering knobs to dig into turns. Three-inch tires provide you with plenty of grip but often a more vague cornering feel due to smaller, more uniform knobs. To get geeky about tires, check out our review of mountain bike tires.
Tires are easy to switch out and are among the most cost-effective ways to upgrade the performance of your bike. Rims are a much pricier and more time-consuming fix. Anything less than a 25mm rim is now considered narrow for an aggressive trail or enduro bike. We recommend trying to find something in the range of 28mm to 35mm, with the sweet spot right around 30mm. For less aggressive bikes, it's less critical, but traction is traction. We like it on all of our bikes. It's a good idea to ask manufacturers or dealers what range of tires you can run on their rims.
Clean lines and excellent engineering give the Ripmo a distinct look.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Choosing a Complete Bike Build
Frame. Aluminum vs. Carbon is your first big decision point. Choosing an aluminum frame typically involves substantial cost savings. It's typically slightly heavier, flexes more easily, and doesn't have the strength of modern carbon. If you're just trying to get out on your bike, aluminum is great. Carbon fiber is more expensive, lighter-weight, and stiffer than aluminum as a frame material; it's also superior at dampening vibrations. Consider carbon fiber if investing in your bike is a priority and you plan on having it for an extended period. Carbon fiber ages better than aluminum.
Fork and Rear Shock. Suspension components range widely in price. The differences between low-end and high-end suspension componentry are significant, though it may not be apparent to riders just starting out. A higher-end fork and rear shock will be more adjustable to your weight, riding style, and personal preference. Heavier or more aggressive riders will find more comfort and durability with coil-sprung suspension than shocks that rely solely on air reservoirs.
Wireless AXS shifting is hard to beat, but the robust drivetrain has a small weight penalty.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Drivetrain. It's important to note if the drivetrain has one (1x) or two (2x) chainrings. Two chainrings require a front derailleur, meaning you have shifters on both sides of your handlebars. We prefer single-chainring setups that offer simpler shifting, fewer moving parts, and more room for a dropper seatpost remote. Most modern mountain bikes use 1x drivetrains, which typically have 11 or 12 cogs on the cassette, giving the rider approximately 500% gear range.
Wheelset. Higher quality is better, but pay attention to the rim width. Narrow rims create more flex where the tire spreads toward its contact patch. Wider rims and tires made for them increase traction, stability, and comfort. Like bike frames, rims come in aluminum or carbon fiber. While carbon wheels are typically much more expensive, they're also more durable and compliant.
Seatpost. We highly recommend a dropper seat post. Here's a review of some of the best dropper posts on the market. If you're not a convert already, it will change your game more than any other single shift. By lowering your saddle height, you lower your center of mass, and that can make tricky technical terrain much more manageable. Sometimes, it's worth jumping up to a higher-quality complete build to get one, and sometimes, it makes more sense to purchase one separately.
The Stumpy feels confident, inspiring, and capable.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Women's Bikes
The majority of mountain bikes are considered unisex models. What makes any bike a woman's bike is whether or not a woman is riding it. The problem with only providing unisex models for both men and women is that these bikes are set up for the average rider. The average rider still skews male and is around 30 pounds heavier than a woman of approximately the same height (according to women's MTB company Juliana and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Men are also taller than women on average. This means that frames can be too big, and standard shock tunes can be too stiff for smaller, lighter riders.
Several bike manufacturers address this issue by making women-specific models. Some take a step further and branch off into separate, women-specific companies. Examples of the latter include Santa Cruz's Juliana and Giant's Liv. It used to be more common to build women's bikes from the ground up with unique geometry. Now, most companies offer unisex frames with lighter shock tunes, different colors, and women-specific touchpoints. These touchpoints include women's saddles, smaller grips, and sometimes shorter cranks and narrower handlebars.
Juliana bikes are Santa Cruz built frames that use different paint schemes and components but they are not fundamentally different from Santa Cruz bikes.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Setting frame design aside, we find sizing and shock tunes to be the most essential elements of a woman's mountain bike. First, a bike has to fit. Second, its fork and shock need to respond proportionally to the rider's weight. These days, many manufacturers are using lighter shock tunes on their smaller bikes to suit smaller riders better, and there has been a move away from inseam-based sizing.
Consumer Direct vs. Local Bike Shop
Consumer direct sales are a growing trend in the mountain bike industry. More and more brands are selling their bikes directly to the consumer, cutting out the local bike shop. With the middleman cut out of the sales chain, companies can sell their bikes at extremely attractive prices. Brands like YT, Commencal, and Canyon are the biggest consumer-direct brands in the USA but smaller boutique manufactureres like Revel are also cashing in on the convenience of dealing direct.
Convenience and savings often come at a cost, and buying consumer-direct is no different. Purchasing a mountain bike at a bike shop buys you a relationship with a shop and maybe some small complimentary services. Quick repairs and warranty services may often be conducted for free. In addition, your local bike shop can be a wealth of knowledge, and well-trained mechanics can spot issues before they become problems.
More bikes mean more specific talents and more to maintain.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Multiple Bikes?
Having a quiver of mountain bikes is the definition of luxury. A multi-bike quiver can be the best solution to get the most out of this fantastic sport and your available terrain. That said, it certainly isn't cheap. Having a short travel bike and an enduro bike will have you covered on the bulk of trails. Since this is somewhat unrealistic, we place a lot of emphasis on mid-travel trail bikes. These are often the best solution as they are comfortable on a wide variety of terrain. Long rides, shuttle laps, after-work hot laps - these bikes can do it all. You can always rent a longer travel bike for an occasional trip to the bike park.
Some people are lucky enough to have year-round trails in their backyards. For the rest of us, the off-season and time constraints are real. Luckily, there have never been more options for training at home if you can't get on the trails. Many of the top-rated exercise bikes have evolved into interactive machines you can ride solo or with groups. These bikes now allow you to join a live group ride or follow some of the most scenic road rides around the globe. Perhaps even more intriguing are the latest bike trainer options, which allow you to train on your favorite bike with most of the features of high-end stationary bikes. And for those who want to use the off-season as an excuse to specifically take a break from riding, a great home treadmill from our review might be the call.
Remember, we do this because it's fun. Enjoy your ride!
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Conclusion
This guide should help make your big mountain bike decision a little bit easier. Be sure to think through the process in its entirety. The most important thing about deciding which mountain bike to buy is to be realistic about your skills, goals, and where you ride. The above-mentioned list of bikes is the best of the best. Rest assured, OutdoorGearLab will keep buying, riding, and reviewing the top bikes in the industry to keep this list current.
—Joshua Hutchens, Jeremy Benson, Pat Donahue, and Kyle Smaine
