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Are you searching for the best new trail mountain bike? We constantly research the latest and greatest models and buy and compare. Our review currently focuses on 22 of the best trail mountain bikes you can buy, focusing on mid and short-travel options for everyday riding. We want to help you find the model that best suits your intended riding style, geography, and budget; with so many options on the market, we understand the challenge. Our team of professional mountain bike testers spent countless hours riding and testing these bikes while focusing on and scrutinizing every aspect of their design, performance, and component specification. We hope this review helps you find your next bike no matter where or how you ride.
Expensive, still not a full-on enduro bike, a touch on the heavy side
Costly, No frame storage, Wiggly dropper post
A little heavy, SRAM Code R brakes, bar/stem combo limits adjustability
Overkill for tame trails, Fox 36 Rhythm fork, moderate weight
Geometry isn't adjustable, no frame storage, costly
Bottom Line
The new and improved Ripmo V2 is the best all-around trail bike we've ever tested
A versatile mid-travel 29er that leads with its suspension design and follows with exceptional build quality
The new Fuel delivers progressive geometry, a host of modern features, and a spectacular ride right off the bike shop floor; this bike crushes
A heavy-hitting longer travel trail bike with an innovative, highly adjustable geometry
Highly active suspension system with tremendous attention to detail, this bike may be perfect, but it lacks the adjustability and storage of many of its modern rivals
Redesigned for the 2020 model year, the Ibis Ripmo V2 is even more impressive than the original. The head tube angle has been pulled back to 64.9 degrees, the wheelbase lengthened, and the suspension curve tweaked for more progression at the end of the stroke. While those changes may sound minor, the new Ripmo is notably more confident and capable in aggressive terrain and at speed. Despite the geometry changes, this bike maintains its mythical climbing abilities, excellent low-speed handling, and maneuverability in tight, technical terrain. The DW-Link suspension provides a calm and stable pedal platform, excellent small bump compliance, and great mid-stroke support; the increased progressiveness is noticeable on bigger hits. Ibis was spot on with the design of the V2 as there was nowhere this bike didn't perform well for our testers. Whether scrambling up a steep climb or charging down a descent, this bike was comfortable, composed, and intuitive. Our testers aren't always on the same page, but it was easy for them to agree that the Ripmo V2 is one of the best bikes they've ever ridden.
The Revel Rascal XO Transmission is more than it would appear on paper. The 130mm carbon framed bike doesn't look exotic or have wild geometry numbers but don't judge this book by its cover. The Canfield Brothers Suspension design gives this bike tremendous traction and a spry, playful feel. A solid pedaling platform, deep stroke support, and uncoupled sensitivity are hallmarks of this design. Focusing pedaling forces around a center of curvature instead of an instant center creates a consistent feel everywhere in the travel. The bike has modern geometry values but resists the super long and slack treatment that is so ubiquitous. This gives the bike a shorter wheelbase and snappy handling, keeping it fun when the trails aren't extreme. This Rascal is a better climber than the outgoing model, given its steeper seat tube angle, especially on larger models. Equipped with the SRAM XO Transmission drivetrain and Revel's RW30 Thermoplastic Carbon wheelset using Industry Nine Hydra hubs, your inputs are quickly rewarded. Top-notch suspension from RockShox and a thoughtful selection of parts leave little to be desired. The Rascal's numbers, suspension, and specs all come together to create a bike that is more than the sum of its parts; synergy comes to mind.
The geometry is not adjustable, and the frame doesn't have downtube storage, which may be on some rider's must-have lists. While adjustable geometry certainly adds to a bike's versatility, the Rascal sits in a Goldilocks zone that we'd be reluctant to mess with. We found some nits to pick with the saddle and some excessive play in the dropper, but nothing that stands in the way of wholeheartedly recommending this bike. Aggressive riders looking for a courageous bike with a big mountain appetite will be thrilled; Revel actually guarantees your happiness with their bikes.
The Yeti SB140 is a mid-travel trail bike that's down for any trail, any time. This 140mm 29er will impress you with its ride quality, delivering performance beyond what the geometry table explains. The feel of this suspension is sublime; it's immediately clear that you're on a premium product. Whether you're riding fast-rolling flow trails, hard scramble climbs, all-day alpine missions, or airing out the jump line, Yeti has you covered. Climbing traction is outstanding, while positioning is predictably ideal; the rear wheel tracks through technical terrain and rough climbs with magnetic grip. Pointing it downhill is equally impressive; the Yeti maintains incredible small bump sensitivity throughout its travel. Accurate and confidence-inspiring, the SB140 devours all but the nastiest sections of vert. The bike embodies precision and balance; it has that trail bike swagger but feels a bit more mature.
There are a lot of “perfect, do-it-all bikes,” but this is a connoisseur bike, and the nuances of its performance may not be apparent to novice riders. If your list of demands for a new trail bike includes frame storage or adjustable geometry, the SB140 won't make the cut. Similarly, keep shopping if you're trending toward more aggressive trail bikes. The Yeti feels agile, athletic, and wildly capable; it never feels like it relies on its big fork to do the talking. It delivers heroic levels of traction, allowing you to find new limits to cornering and braking. The Yeti SB140 will slay the vast majority of singletrack trails in North America; what are you waiting for?
The newest version of the Specialized Stumpjumper EVO stands out for its unprecedented adjustability and confidence-inspiring downhill performance. The carbon-framed 150mm travel 29er is a ripping longer travel trail bike with an innovative design that allows the user to adjust the head angle between 63.5 and 65.5 degrees and raise or lower the bottom bracket by 7mm. This allows the rider to choose the geometry that best suits their riding style or terrain and quickly and easily switch it back and forth. In its steepest and highest settings, it's an aggressive yet highly versatile trail bike. When dropped into low and slack, it changes character and becomes a gravity-eating machine. You can take it on a long trail ride today and crush bike park laps the next; the Stumpjumper EVO has you covered. This bike is very stable and confident descending, and the updated FSR suspension platform delivers a refined ride that is both supple and supportive. Considering its downhill prowess, it also climbs comfortably and efficiently. Its length isn't an asset in tight spots, and its slacker geometry settings can seriously alter its uphill handling. Specialized continues its on-bike storage dominance, and now you can store water and tools in the SWAT compartment. The Comp build we tested is the least expensive in the range, yet it comes ready to rip at a competitive price.
The Ibis Ripley GX underwent a complete overhaul for the 2020 model year. Besides keeping the same travel as the previous version, 120mm in the rear and 130mm in the front, the Ripley was fully redesigned. Building on the success of the longer travel Ripmo, Ibis took many of the design features of that bike and applied them in this shorter travel package. The reach and wheelbase were extended significantly, the head tube slackened, and the seat tube steepened to bring Ripley's geometry up to date. The result is an impressively well-rounded bike that climbs even better and descends far more confidently than the previous version. It still maintains much of its lively and playful trail manners, though that is no longer its defining characteristic. This versatile short travel ride scampers uphill and charges back down, only limited by travel length. If you're looking for a short travel trail bike that can do it all, check out the Ibis Ripley.
The Norco Optic joins a growing list of aggressive short-travel trail bikes and is at the head of its class. This 29er has 125mm of rear-wheel travel and a 140mm fork paired with a modern long and slack geometry that you'd normally find on a bike with more travel. Despite its modest travel numbers, the Optic prefers steep and rough trails and comes to life as speeds increase. The Horst-Link rear suspension design feels dialed, and this bike feels like it has more travel than the numbers suggest. On the climbs, it can't quite match the liveliness or efficiency of some of the more XC-oriented bikes out there, although it is comfortable and capable in most uphill situations. It makes up for whatever ground it loses to other bikes on the climbs with its supernatural descending capabilities. The C2 SRAM build we tested is competitively priced, and it comes with a shred-ready component specification that won't force you to shell out any extra cash on immediate upgrades. If you're looking for a shorter travel trail bike and prioritize downhill performance above all else, the Norco Optic is worthy of serious consideration.
In recent years, several consumer-direct brands have made waves in the mountain bike industry by selling quality bikes for less than their mainstream counterparts. Ari (formerly Fezzari) is among those brands, and the Delano Peak is their mid-travel trail bike that sports 135mm of rear-wheel travel paired with a 150mm fork. The geometry of this carbon fiber 29er is current, and our testers were thoroughly impressed with this do-it-all machine. On the descents, it likes to go fast, feels super stable at speed, and is confident and composed in hard-hitting terrain. At the same time, it maintains responsive handling and isn't so long and slack that it's a handful in tighter spots or at lower speeds. The steep seat tube angle provides a comfortable and efficient seated position for those long climbs and scrambling up techy sections. Power transfer feels direct down into the pedals, although we used the compression damping switch on the rear shock to maximize efficiency on the ups and in rolling terrain. The Elite build we tested is also spectacular for the price. If you want to save a little money without sacrificing performance, this dialed mid-travel ride is among the best values.
The YT Izzo is the shortest travel model in their line of trail, all-mountain, and gravity mountain bikes. With 130mm of front and rear wheel travel, this lightweight carbon 29er is YT's most trail-oriented model, with a fairly modern geometry that lends itself more toward the XC side of the trail riding spectrum. Weighing in at just 27.5 pounds in the size large we tested, it's also the lightest trail bike we've ever tested. This bike is fast, agile, and very responsive. It's a spirited climber and thrives in rolling terrain under a rider who likes to stay on the gas. It absolutely rips on the descents, with a playful and precise demeanor that eats up smooth and moderately aggressive terrain alike. The Core 4 build we tested is a fantastic value. The Izzo wouldn't be our first choice for super aggressive riders or terrain, but that isn't its intended purpose. Not all trail bikes need to be the same, and we feel the Izzo meets the need for a light, fast, and agile bike made to carry speed and ride many miles on your bike.
Measured Weight: 29 lbs 14 oz (large) | Front Travel: 130mm
REASONS TO BUY
All-around high-performance
Stable at speed
Dialed modern geometry
REASONS TO AVOID
No chainstay protection
So-so fork specification
The Specialized Fuse Expert 29 is a new model for 2020 and features an updated frame design and 29-inch wheels. Previous Fuse models have been tester favorites, and the new version easily took the top spot as our favorite hardtail. The new Fuse 29 has a more progressive modern geometry that is longer and slacker than the old model but remains conservative enough to perform well in virtually every situation. This bike charges downhill, devouring flow trails; it had our testers grinning from ear to ear after every ride. Not an XC race bike, the Fuse still climbs effectively, given its nearly 30 lb weight. The brushed aluminum finish and subtle purple lettering give it a cool appearance. The Fuse is a solid value with a component specification that is ready for anything you are. If you're looking for a do-it-all trail hardtail, look no further.
Out for some comparison testing on the local trails
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Why Trust GearLab
Our professional mountain bike test team spends a lot of time riding, researching, tinkering, and thinking about mountain bikes. Our experienced testers are industry veterans, competitive racers, salty shop guys, and local trail devotees who have spent years putting test bikes through their paces. The vast and varied terrain of the northern Sierra in the greater Lake Tahoe area is the headquarters for testing. Big backcountry epics, shuttle laps, flow trails, and chunky raw downhills are all out the backdoor of our bike-testing home base. We don't simply ride these bikes for a week or two and then move on. No, these bikes are passed between riders for months and tested for hundreds of miles each.
Our Senior Mountain Bike Review Editor,Joshua Hutchens, has been in the bicycle industry since the age of 12. This native Californian spends an inordinate amount of time on two wheels. His extensive experience in bike shops, bike parks, and on the trail has helped him develop a critical eye for what matters. He has traveled the world as a bicycle guide, leading tours of spectacular locations. Joshua has ridden and raced almost every discipline of cycling and now coaches youth mountain biking. Neighborhood kids know him as Papa-wheelie, and he's been known to ride no-handed wheelies. A meticulous mechanic, he brings skills and curiosity to our process.
Jeremy Benson is an East Coast native who has been riding mountain bikes since the early 1990s. He moved to North Lake Tahoe in 2001 and has been obsessively riding the area trails ever since. A competitive gravel and mountain bike racer, Benson spends more time in the saddle than most while testing, training, and riding just for the fun of it. He is also especially tough on and critical of gear and has spent over a decade working as a product tester and reviewer in both the ski and mountain bike industries. Benson is a local trail expert and the author of Mountain Bike Tahoe, a comprehensive guide to the trails of the Lake Tahoe region.
Pat Donahue is our former Senior Mountain Bike Editor turned bike shop owner and has been riding a revolving door of bicycles for a decade and a half. He has ridden well over 100 bikes in that time and is passionate about connecting people with the right bicycles. He has ridden and tested bikes in a huge range of locations and trails ranging from burly bike park laps to heinous all-day epic rides. He has an affinity for super steep and chunky trails and is especially adept at testing the durability of wheels and tires.
Other than measuring and weighing the bikes we test, we spend lots of time riding them to identify their strengths, weaknesses, and performance differences.
Credit: Laura Casner
Analysis and Test Results
Our team is continuously scouring the market for the latest and greatest mountain bikes. When we see a great new bike released, we buy it and put it through our rigorous testing process. Each of our testers spends weeks riding each bike before passing it on to the next. When testing is complete, we compare notes and cross-examine to bring you this all-encompassing trail mountain bike review. Each bike is ranked in terms of fun factor (worth 25%), downhill performance (35%), uphill performance (35%), and ease of maintenance (5%). We compare the best of the best below. The bikes' intended applications, build qualities, and prices range widely. Our favorite trail bikes shine even with less-than-ideal components, and the best are appropriate for a wide range of terrain.
If you appreciate a good value, consumer-direct brands like Fezzari (pictured here), YT, Canyon, and Commencal typically beat the mainstream brands on price.
Credit: Laura Casner
Value
With such an enormous variety of bikes, pinpointing which will offer the best value for your needs can be a big task. We assess overall performance and how the bikes performed relative to price. Sure, you can buy a bike that requires a second mortgage on your house, but you certainly don't have to. Many of the reasonably priced bikes we test are just as much fun as the high-priced competition. The Polygon Siskiu T8 is a great example. This affordable bike has a modern trail riding geometry, comes with components ready to rip, and is quite nice for the price. Consumer direct brands like YT, Canyon, Ari, and Commencal also provide a lot of value to the consumer and typically sell bikes for less than the mainstream competition.
Charging down some chunder on the Ibis Ripley.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Fun Factor
Thomas Aquinas once said, “Fun factor is critical when evaluating a trail mountain bike.” We ride bikes for fun, and we assume you do too. That's why fun factor is worth a hefty 25% of the final score.
The Ibis Ripley epitomizes a modern, zippy, fun-loving trail bike. Everything about piloting this carbon-framed 120mm travel 29er is a blast. The latest model made the Ripley far more well-rounded, though it's still happy seeking out boosts and trail-side shenanigans. Plenty of overused, cringe-inducing terms are used to describe trail bikes these days. Phrases like poppy, snappy, and flickable are hurled around all willy-nilly. That said, the Ripley is a poppy, snappy, and flickable bike, and the recent overhaul has also made it far more competent on the climbs and in steeper and rougher terrain on descents. It also comes in aluminum, and the Ripley AF shares the same playful demeanor, albeit at a slightly heavier weight.
Fun means different things to different riders. If you like a quick, snappy, and playful ride, the YT Izzo is tons of fun.
Credit: Laura Casner
The Trek Fuel EX 9.8 also has a very high fun factor. This mid-travel 29er climbs extremely well, shreds downhill, and operates with razor-sharp handling. This bicycle is fun on a huge range of trails, and you'll never feel like it's overkill. A bike that is fun on any trail you put in front of it is somewhat of a rarity. Likewise, the mid-travel Revel Rascal is a blast to ride. The Rascal's moderate geometry gives it a very well-rounded performance, while its unique CBF suspension design provides a damp and refined ride feel. The YT Izzo Core 4 proved to be incredibly fun to ride. This lightweight, quick, and playful bike had us pushing the pace on the climbs and descents. It handles with precision and an energetic lively feel that we found to be an absolute blast.
Just because a bike isn't expensive doesn't mean it can't be a blast to ride. The Polygon Siskiu T8 is a prime example.
Credit: Laura Casner
The Polygon Siskiu T8 is an impressively versatile bike, given its extremely affordable price. Here at OutdoorGearLab, we find versatility to be very fun. The Siskiu performs well above its asking price, and we feel it is one of the best values for a trail bike that you can find. This rig is a reasonably efficient climber with a calm pedal platform. Once at the top of the hill, downhill performance is incredibly fun, composed, and confidence-inspiring. This bike is more fun to ride than many that cost twice as much.
The Ripmo V2 is a confident and hard-charging descender.
Credit: Laura Casner
Some of the longer travel and harder charging options are quite fun in their own right. The Santa Cruz Hightower 3 C S, Ibis Ripmo V2, and Specialized Stumpjumper EVO are a blast for steep, aggressive trails. These long-legged 29ers climb nearly as well as their shorter travel counterparts and really shine when the pitch steepens. They are extremely fun in that they are not limited to certain trail types; you can jump aboard one of these bikes and ride as aggressively as you want. They may not be the most efficient bikes, but they are as close as you can get to a do-it-all mountain bike.
Trail bikes are all about versatility. The very best models perform as well on the climbs as they do on the descents.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Downhill Performance
Ripping the descents is undoubtedly the lynchpin of a fun mountain bike experience. While all of the bikes in this review are categorized as trail bikes, some are more fun to ride downhill than others. A bike's geometry, suspension platform, and component specification are the primary factors that influence its downhill performance. This metric is worth 35% of the final score.
The Ibis Ripmo V2 is an impressive descender, especially considering how well it climbs. The Ripmo has modern geometry and instills confidence when rolling into some sketchy terrain. A 160mm fork is paired with a 2.5-inch Maxxis Assegai and creates a supremely confident front end. Rolling into a steep chute or nasty rock garden is confidence-inspiring. The Ripmo is great over small bumps and has a calm yet sporty rear end, while the long-and-low geometry delivers an extremely stable ride at high speeds. Similarly, the Specialized Stumpjumper EVO is capable of tackling super aggressive terrain. This 150mm travel 29er charges hard, and its FSR suspension design devours bumps, chunk, and drops as if they weren't even there. Add to that the fact that you can dramatically alter this bike's geometry with simple adjustments, and you can set it up how you like for your riding style and terrain.
We can't find enough good things to say about the Ripmo, this bike has “rip” in its name for a reason.
Credit: Laura Casner
The Gen 3 Santa Cruz Hightower is a highly capable and confidence-inspiring descender amongst mid-travel trail mountain bikes. It places riders in a confident position to work down a steep section of trail and provides excellent stability at speed. It is difficult to find the Hightower's speed limit, and the 145mm VPP suspension keeps the rear end calm, especially on bigger impacts. This bike is capable of tackling seriously rough and steep descents; there is no question that this bike rides more aggressively than 145mm of travel suggests. The Ari Delano Peak also impressed us on the descents. This mid-travel ride fooled us into thinking it had more travel than it actually did, with impressive stability at speed and a geometry that didn't flinch when the trail got steep and rough. While testing, we found ourselves pushing our limits of speed and terrain and exceeding our expectations of what this bike was capable of.
The new Bronson comes alive in steep, rough terrain and is a great choice for aggressive riders.
Credit: Laura Casner
Another standout performer on the way down is the new Santa Cruz Bronson. This 150mm travel bike has been a mainstay in the Santa Cruz line for nearly a decade and was updated for the 2022 model year with a revised geometry and a move to mixed wheel sizes, also known as mullet or MX. The 29-inch front wheel provides a confident and stable front end, while the 27.5-inch rear wheel keeps the rear end quick and lively. Thanks to the fairly long wheelbase and slack head tube angle, we found the Bronson to shine in steep, aggressive terrain while still remaining highly maneuverable for quick direction changes, slashes, and playful antics.
The Specialized Stumpjumper EVO is one of the burliest bikes we've tested, and its adjustable geometry means you can set it up how you like for your style or the trails you ride.
Credit: Laura Casner
We would be remiss not to give kudos to some of the shorter travel trail bikes for their impressive downhill performances. Modern geometry trends are taking the capability of bikes with less travel to new heights, and bikes with a little less travel may be more appropriate for a lot of riders and riding locations. The Santa Cruz Tallboy may be short on travel with just 120mm in the rear and a 130mm fork, yet this bike is capable of tackling just about anything you are. This bike is a blast to ride on all types of terrain and is only limited in more aggressive terrain by its modest travel numbers. The Ibis Ripley is another shorter travel rig that rips on the descents. It has a touch steeper head tube angle than the Tallboy with identical amounts of travel and strikingly similar geometry. This lively and quick-witted bike will have you riding most things faster than ever while seeking the fun line down the hill.
Today's shorter travel trail bikes, like the Norco Optic C2, are impressive descenders too.
Credit: Laura Casner
The Norco Optic C2 is a short travel bike with an aggressive geometry that is an absolute blast on the descents. The Optic is keen to party, assuming high speeds and steep, rough trails are your kind of party. This bike punches well above its short travel pay grade and will inspire the confidence to charge harder than you'd expect for a 125mm trail bike. While not particularly aggressive, the YT Izzo is a downhill slayer on the right terrain. This bike carries speed exceptionally well and slices and dices the trail with sharp handling.
The lightweight YT Izzo proved to be one of the fastest climbers we've tested.
Credit: Laura Casner
Climbing Performance
While grinding uphill may not be as adrenaline-inducing as charging a descent, it is equally important in a trail mountain bike. Being able to ascend a long climb comfortably is critical in choosing a bike. It is no surprise that short-travel bikes dominate this category. It is worth noting that some of the longer travel options provide exceptional uphill skills, especially when you consider how aggressively they attack the descent. Generally speaking, the geometry of a bike is the primary element dictating rider comfort and handling, while the suspension platform plays a major role in efficiency. Climbing performance is worth 35% of the final score.
The YT Izzo is an exceptional mountain bike that stands out for its impressively light weight of 27.5 lbs and quickness in the ascents. Its carbon construction keeps it light and comfortable. It's a fast-rolling bike that rewards riders who push the pace. On the other hand, the Ibis Ripley with its playful modern geometry, great traction, and lightweight construction. Its DW-Link suspension system provides excellent traction without feeling too aggressive. While not be the most efficient pedaler, it is a top choice for technical terrain. Additionally, its upright climbing position and rider placement directly over the bottom bracket makes it an ideal choice for those who enjoy technical climbs.
The Trek Fuel EX 9.8 is an excellent climber. It is especially impressive when you consider how capable this bike is on the downhill. The ABP suspension is active enough to deliver fantastic rear-wheel traction while still offering a firm pedal platform. Pair this dialed suspension design with carbon wheels and sticky rubber, and you have a formidable uphill weapon. The Fuel EX 9.8 is a bike that you can climb on all day long while still being able to shred down the hill.
but does it climb like a goat?
Credit: Casey Montandon
The Ibis Ripmo V2 is a surprisingly effective climber. Thanks to the steep seat tube angle, riders are placed in a comfortable and upright position right on top of the cranks. Seated climbing efficiency is impressive, and standing climbing loads are calm with a very minimal amount of pedal bob. There is little need to use the climb switch on this 147mm bike. It rides fairly high in its travel to help keep your pedals from smashing rocks or obstacles. There's no doubt that this is one of our most confident descenders, with uphill abilities far better than you'd expect from this ripping 29er.
You gotta get up to get down. The Ripmo V2 is great at both.
Credit: Laura Casner
The Yeti SB 140 is also a sure-footed climber. The suspension performance of this bike enhances traction while keeping the rider in the optimal position.
The most important thing is matching you bike with your riding style and terrain.
Credit: Laura Casner
Maintenance
Mountain bikes can be quite expensive and require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly. It is recommended to refer to the product manuals of each bike component to determine the necessary service schedules. Regular servicing is essential for maintaining the longevity and performance of your bike.
Full Suspension vs. Hardtail
It is undeniable that a full suspension trail mountain bike outperforms a hardtail bike in just about every ride category. However, hardtail bikes have a maintenance advantage. Those pivots, seals, and bearings must be maintained to keep your bike running smoothly. It is recommended to clean, regrease and torque your suspension pivots multiple times a year. This will also ensure that your bike operates quietly and efficiently but will cost you at least some time in the work stand.
If you ride often and hard, you'll need to maintain your bike more regularly.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Maintenance Schedule
Just like keeping up with regular car services, smaller, more frequent services can save you big bucks in the long term. Here's a quick and dirty primer:
Before Every Ride — Check tire pressure, brake function, axle torque levels
After Every Ride — Clean and lube chain, wipe down stanchions
Weekly — Clean off mud and debris, check spoke tension
Bi-Weekly — Check for and tighten any loose bolts, check headset for proper tightness, clean pivots, check fork and shock pressure
Monthly — Check chain wear and brake pads. Replace as necessary
Annually — Complete professional overhaul
A well maintained bike will keep you on the trail and out the bike shop.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Ease of Maintenance Ratings
Some bikes are more challenging to maintain than others. We ranked the ease of maintenance for the bikes in our test based on the following criteria:
Suspension Pivots — How often they need to be serviced, how complicated that service is, and how expensive the bearings or bushings are.
Fork and Shock — These are the most expensive components on your bike and also the most complicated. Suspension products should be serviced at least once a year. Manufacturers will tell you to replace wiper seals far more frequently. This all depends on trail conditions and how frequently you ride. We rate the forks and shocks based on how often the oil and seals need to be changed, how often they require a complete rebuild, and how costly and accessible that service is.
Dropper Post — Just like any suspension product, a dropper post needs to be serviced periodically. Certain designs require far more attention than others. Mechanical droppers are often preferred as opposed to hydraulic units, which have a high number of seals that wear and require replacement. Having a dropper post means more maintenance (and fun), and most quality mountain bikes come with one.
Brakes — Brake pads wear, and the hydraulic fluid needs to be bled to have air pockets removed from the lines. This should be done annually. We score Shimano brakes a little better than SRAM. Shimano has a long service interval and uses mineral oil and a simpler bleed process. SRAM brakes require corrosive DOT 5.1 fluid and a more complicated bleed process.
Drivetrain — Chain, cassette, and chainrings all wear together. Chain wear is measured by elongation, and we can't give you an exact amount of mileage, but we typically replace chains at around 1200-1500 miles and replace cassette and chainring with every other chain. We don't account for drivetrain wear and tear in the rankings.
Tires — Different rubber compounds burn at different speeds. Expect to purchase one or two sets of tires per season for your trail mountain bike. We don't consider tires in the rankings.
Wheels — It is important to have proper spoke tension on your wheels. It is a good idea to have them trued and tensioned at least once a year to avoid serious issues. We don't include wheels in the score, either.
Our fork and shock ease of maintenance rankings reflect the manufacturer's recommended service intervals. According to owner manuals, Fox suspension items require less attention than RockShox, but anecdotal evidence suggests otherwise.
Mountain biking is a blast. The most important thing is to get a bike that matches your riding style and suits your terrain, then get out and ride.
Credit: Laura Casner
Conclusion
There are lots of amazing bikes, and bike gear, on the market these days, and our list of favorites keeps growing every year. Currently, the Ibis Ripley and Norco Optic C2 are standouts in the short-travel category. These trail mountain bikes are ideal for the rider who doesn't feel the need to ride a longer travel bike but still wants an impressively capable ride. The Specialized Stumpjumper EVO and Ibis Ripmo V2 are outstanding longer travel options. These bikes are perfect for folks who want to ride a wide range of terrain and charge hard when given the opportunity. The Trek Fuel EX 9.8 is the best mid-travel bike in our test, with well-rounded performance and capabilities beyond its travel class. The Specialized Fuse 29 was easily the best all-around trail riding hardtail we've tested, and those seeking a great value should be sure to check out the affordable Polygon Siskiu T8.
