Pinkbike Awards - Mountain Bike of The Year Nominees

Dec 22, 2015
by Pinkbike Staff  


new MTB awards logo 2015
Mountain Bike of the Year: Nominees


What sort of attributes should the Mountain Bike of the Year winner possess? The champ obviously has to offer best-in-class performance, that much is a no-brainer, and it's something that all three of our candidates can lay claim to in one way or another. But beyond that, the MBOY nominees include the ultra-pricey Trek Remedy 29 9.9 that makes other do-it-all bikes look like they'd be better described as do-it-all-so-so bikes, Cannondale's questionably coloured Habit Carbon SE that is among the best handling rigs out there, and YT's insanely priced, carbon fiber Tues CF Comp downhill bike that looks and rides like it should cost twice as much as it actually does.

Will a 208mm travel downhill bike win, or is it the 140mm travel 29er that's going to take home the MBOY honours? And don't forget about the 120mm travel, 27.5'' wheeled bike that dares to be different.







Trek Remedy 29 review

Trek Remedy 29 9.9

For when you have $9,000 burning a hole in your pocket

Given that it has a $8,799.99 USD price tag on it, the Remedy 29 9.9 better perform well. But it doesn't... it performs incredibly well, almost to the point where it's not fair to other bikes in the same travel bracket, not to mention shaming some shorter and longer travel machines when talking about areas where they should be able to easily beat the Remedy. The 140mm travel 9.9 weighs just 25.8lb, a number helped in no small part by its obviously lightweight frame and XX1 drivetrain, but let's not look past the dropper post and 140mm travel Pike RCT3 fork, components that say, "I may be light, but I'm ready to get rowdy if you are."

The Remedy 29 9.9 is here because it blurs the lines between categories - I'm trying really hard not to refer to it as a "quiver killer" but that is basically what Trek has created. The bike ascends like a Saturn V rocket, but it's also the very same chassis that's won hairy stages at Enduro World Series events, making it an all-rounder that's worthy of putting on your list of dream bikes. Of course, the 9.9's price is also a good reason that many of us will only be able to dream of it.





Cannondale Habit Carbon SE Original photo by Clayton Racicot

Cannondale Habit Carbon SE

Low on travel, big on fun

It's probably not out of line to say that the 120mm travel Habit Carbon SE's mother might have been a cross-country whippet and its father a husky trail bike, with their 27.5lb offspring clearly growing up to be a high-spirited thing that doesn't give a shit if it confuses people about its intentions so long as the rider is having fun. Sure, you could do a cross-country race on the Habit, and no one would tell you that you can't show up to an enduro with the bike, but, having spent a handful of months rallying the turquoise machine around B.C., I can vouch that it's best suited to simply riding like a delinquent as often as possible.

The $4,480 USD Habit's otherworldly handling is the reason it made the shortlist, and it's like a cross-country bike if cross-country bikes were more about having a good time than breathing through your eyeballs for a few hours while pretending you're enjoying yourself. You can ride it all day without feeling like you're being punished for something, but then it reminds you exactly why you're out there: for fun. It's also a good reminder that travel doesn't define a bike, and neither does its appearance.





YT CF Comp Review

YT Tues CF Comp

Pick all three: performance, carbon fiber, and saving money

You may not agree with YT's direct-to-consumer sales model, but there's no denying that their business plan allows them to absolutely slaughter the competition when it comes to what you get for your dinero. Case in point: $4,295 USD will buy you the 208mm travel Tues CF Comp, a mostly carbon fiber downhill bike that includes things like a RockShox BoXXer Team RC fork, a Vivid R2C shock, SRAM's Guide brakes, and a DT Swiss wheelset shod with a 2.4” Maxxis HighRoller II tires. And, almost unbelievably, spending another $500 USD will get you the CF Pro model that comes with BOS suspension and a seven-speed X01 DH drivetrain, although it's the Comp that we reviewed earlier in the year.

It wouldn't matter how well the Tues is priced if its geometry was wack, but it most certainly isn't - the bike features smart numbers that won't hold any downhiller back. The bike rides extremely well, even forgetting about its superb price that looks like it's lifted out of a Black Friday sale flyer, all of which puts it firmly on the Mountain Bike of the Year candidate list.


Click here for information about the judging and selection criteria for Pinkbike's Year-End Awards.




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Member since Jul 22, 2013
3,465 articles

407 Comments
  • 424 18
 That's a bit... disappointing.
  • 261 13
 Literally the 1st time I have been aware of the cannondale habit !
  • 137 11
 Hmmm if PB would have reviewed the Evil Following maybe it would have made it? But hey...merry Christmas Charlie Brown.
  • 66 6
 Yeah, no Evil Following or Ripley LS?
  • 48 22
 Are these the nominees for exact middle of the pack? All 3 are... I'm sure they're ok, but bike of the year?

I'm sure those companies spend more on advertising on PB than the ones making bikes I'm actually excited about...
  • 82 18
 @Weens, what bikes are you excited about? I'm always interested in what else is out there. I can assure you that the amount a company spends on advertising has nothing to do with whether or not a bike is selected. These three selections were our favorites out of all the bikes we (PB's tech editors) rode and reviewed over the course of the last 12 months.
  • 50 14
 Another vote for the Evil Following or at least the Insurgent... What a disappointing list.
  • 15 10
 I don't really understand these picks either.. If it's for just the straight up BEST bike, I'm not so sure the YT would be in there.. And if its considering price and value, why put in a $9,000 enduro rig?
  • 122 15
 Did anyone read the article? It clearly explained why they were picked and it is, of course, a subjective opinion... what is the with the public revolt? I highly doubt any of you guys spent significant saddle time on anything other than your own steeds so I ask you - how are you qualified ? These are favorite picks, nothing more nothing less.
  • 18 46
flag chyu (Dec 22, 2015 at 11:07) (Below Threshold)
 Whoever pays the bills.
  • 16 6
 As others have asked, have you guys actually ridden any of these bikes? Or are you just basing your opinions off of how they look? Which is what I think a lot of pinkbikers seem to do. I have zero opinion on a bike until I have actually ridden it, preferably for a long period of time.
  • 21 4
 I think it'd be cool to see an aggressive hardtail in the mix. Kind of a niche but so is a full on dh rig. The new slack/short chainstay/dropper post and a 34 or pike hardtails are severely underrated in my opinion
  • 32 9
 @mikekazimer I'm really excited about bikes like the Transition Patrol, Evil Following, Yeti Sb6c, or Ibis Mojo Hd3. The Trek Remedy is a great bike, it's just a bit boring in terms of geo and suspension. Not that boring doesn't work, clearly it works really really well. But it doesn't have the exciting appeal as some of the more unique offerings.
  • 4 1
 edit: Is that not a DRCV? If they've fixed that weak point on the Trek, then it may be a superb bike...
  • 24 4
 Don't be ridiculous with your conspiracy of who pays the bills. For one, PB is so popular and almost every bike brand and component maker advertises on here, its like accusing the New York Times of picking their favorite movies of the year based on advertising spend. Simply put, PB is the most popular Mtn Bike media outlet and they don't need to sell out their critiques because there is no shortage of companies buying ad space here. Secondly, all three of these bikes are often spoken of across numerous mags and sites, for exactly the reasons they are nominated here. Sure, there are other highly buzzed bikes like The Following (and other 29er enduro rigs), but they obviously did not instill the excitement in the editors that these three did. What you see is that they each bring something new to the table: Remedy climbs like an XC and descends like an AM, Habit created a new category between XC and Trail, and the Tues brought high spec DH bikes down to a more approachable level of consumer.
  • 30 6
 A 29er and a Lefty? Come on we are on Pinkbike.com, easy win for Tues.
  • 16 4
 The Yeti sb6c should have gotten some love in this category - at least they tried something different. And it's podium proven...
  • 8 2
 The YT Tues also got dh bike of year twice already from Dirt. It ain't no budeget, middle of the road bike. It performs. I wanted to see the sb6c, as that was my favorite bike of the year that I had a lot of seat time on. But the rear triangle breakages maybe held it back.
  • 19 5
 I don't get it. Guys who have ridden lots of bikes share their experience with us. If you did not recognize those as good bikes, then you should be grateful for broadening your mind. Seriously, think a while, have you ridden all those bikes they did ? No ? So how can you tell they are wrong ?
  • 33 14
 I'm going to make a list of my own….
1. Santa Cruz Nomad. Because I own it and it does everything well. Thought I'd still need my DH bike for Whistler, but after a couple days on the Nomad in the park, the Aurum went up for sale. I've ridden this bike hard for over a year now and only had to do the pivot bearings once. Great bike. Best I've owned. I know it won last year, but so what.
2. Giant Reign. Huge bang for the buck and all the right angles
3. Norco Range. Smartly spec'd. Good bang for the buck. Oh and they all come stock with 170mm forks this year! Pretty rad. FSR suspension lay out. easy on the eyes too!
I'm going to throw in a wild card….
4. Evil Following. It just looks rad. I would love to take one for a rip. Very intrigued. Also, when's that Wreckoning coming out?
  • 3 1
 MDRipper many of us do not have the opportunity to ride all these sweet bikes, I for one rely on reviews of bikes parts and products. So many pepole may be basing the opinion of boty on reviews they read and word of mouth.
  • 5 26
flag drivereight (Dec 22, 2015 at 12:31) (Below Threshold)
 1. Santa Cruz Bronson
2. Santa Cruz Bronson
3. Santa Cruz Bronson

*Product of the year- THE PLUS SIZES!!

That's my list.
  • 6 0
 I believe they limit these to bikes introduced this year; the SC Nomad was a nominee last year.

That said, it'd be nice to see some bikes that are pushing envelopes and taking things in a new direction. Maybe a short travel 29er with modern geometry like the Evil Following or Transition Smuggler, or a 27.5+ bike.
  • 20 0
 One thing is certain that subjective opinions will never make everyone happy, ever. Being a long time racer (from mid 90's -present) and advocate of mountain biking, I have owned more bikes than I can remember (30+) and tested even more. On top of that, I run a race team that has access to several solid brands over the years (Evil, YT, Canfield, Intense, Trek, SC, GT) so we definitely put a lot of time on various bikes.

It will always be hard to narrow it down with having so many bike categories but for the pure fun of things lets just make our own TOP 3 BIKES for 2015 (with a few words) so everyone can have their cake and eat it too:

1) Evil Following / Insurgent (Same brand, same ride = Awesome)
2) Trek Remedy 29 / Slash (Hard to argue their overall performance)
3) YT Capra (enough said)

I know, I cheated and place 5 up their but they are tied for me, it could go either way... Happy holiday's to all
  • 4 1
 I would've thought that for all the talk about it, the Intense M16 might've got a mention. I don't know anything about how it rides, but have seen it pop up on PB a number of times this year and, well, 'murica and stuff...
  • 50 1
 @mikekazimer Maybe it's time for PB to do a top bike of each category? Then you'd see a couple Enduro, Trail, DH, and XC bikes nominated. Not trying to play to the crowd here. But, the scenario above means there is a battle between bikes that would otherwise never compete. And this improves the PB consumer interaction / reaction when they can root / vote for their favorite bike in their segment.

I know what you're going to say. Bikes nominates are released that year, and that there aren't enough bikes released in each category to compete. I would say that used to be the case but that things are changing. Especially when you don't create super narrow definitions.

Enduro:
Remedy 29 / Bronson / Following / Stumpy 6+

Trail:
Habit / 5010 / etc...

DH:
Tues / V10 / Demo / etc...

Then you could also have categories like: Hardtail / XC / etc

Give it a thought...
  • 2 0
 Yes, ideally to have expanded category options would provide the best case scenario. I am sure most people have 2 bikes or more so it will always differ from the bikes people use the most our like the most.
  • 3 1
 As long as it doesn't get tipped over on accident ..
  • 2 1
 The sb6c that is..
  • 2 0
 We own a lot of bikes Between the boys Mike I and would never think of owning one of these, but it's pretty opinion based.
  • 2 0
 Is it just me or does anyone else get annoyed everytime pink bike copy and pastes the same boxxer team rc spec for that yt. Wtf guys. It's been at least 3 times this has happened.
  • 5 2
 Absolutely confused why these bikes are up for bike of the year.
  • 6 11
flag taskmgr (Dec 22, 2015 at 13:39) (Below Threshold)
 I can name a dozen bikes that are more deserving.
  • 5 10
flag Chridel (Dec 22, 2015 at 13:55) (Below Threshold)
 And they are never influenced by companies who are advertising on their page?
  • 3 1
 When almost every company that can afford to, does advertise on PB, how can they be influenced? That means they are influenced by almost everything. At the most, you could say they ignore the really obscure stuff not made in much quantities and that may just be because they don't know about it. If they were really influenced, then all the brands that have advertised on here in 2015 should be on some big list, with lots of categories, so they are sure to fit in all their sponsors. They couldn't care less. YT could stop advertising and 10 other companies would pony up for their spot on the page. That's how it is when you are the leading media outlet.
  • 12 1
 Knolly Warden
  • 3 2
 @mikekazimer
If those were the pinkbike editor's favorite choices of ALL the bikes you had the chance to ride over the last year may I ask what kind of trails you guys were riding?
Seems like there needs to be more categories. IE - AM / gravity enduro / XC etc...
I have a hard time imagining the crackandfail would match up well against a TON of gravity enduro built bikes out there....
  • 6 3
 My real problem is that pinkbike only rode 4 DH bikes this season. I'm getting tired of reading basically the same reviews for a shit ton of enduro bikes but they only ride 4 fucking DH bikes the whole year.
  • 34 7
 "The Trek Remedy is a great bike, it's just a bit boring in terms of geo and suspension."
-Pertinent numbers, but not the sum of all the parts and how it rides.-

"Absolutely confused why these bikes are up for bike of the year."
-Probably because PB thought they should be and they didn't ask you, go figure.-

"1. Santa Cruz Nomad. Because I own it and it does everything well."
-It's ok, it's still a good bike, other people's opinion may vary.-

"I don't think any of these bikes would have been in my top 5 or even top 10."
-And when you start reviewing bikes you are more than welcome to submit your opinion in award form.-

"Literally the 1st time I have been aware of the cannondale habit !"
-It's ok, I live under a rock too.-

"That's a bit... disappointing."
-Buck up man, it's an opinion based award, unfortunately not your opinion.-

"I'm butthurt. My current bike is not on the list and I know it's the best evarrr because I ride it."
-That about sums it up.-
  • 4 3
 Way to go Pinkbike, you just gave us Americans one more thing to be get all butt-hurt about.
  • 4 0
 No Carbon Warden?... that came out in the last 12 months. Like others mentioned, the new rigs from santa cruz are awesome as well. But to each his/her own...
  • 2 1
 Pretty sure top contenders should be Canyon Strive and Yeti SB6, but maybe they are just talking about bikes that made their debut in 2015...
  • 1 3
 Not Cayon or Yeti, spend as much money in advertising with PB as Trek or YT!!!!! Let's see a long this one last!!!
  • 2 0
 If you think YT spends anywhere near as much money as Trek on advertising, you're living in a fantasy. If this were all about advertising dollars, it'd be a bike from the Big 3, every time. Sell more, advertise more.
  • 2 0
 Well isnt the YT Capra at least 99% as good as the trek, for 50% of the price...
  • 1 0
 as of all types on nominee awards they are always fixed its only in the interest of the person who judges it.
  • 1 0
 @hamsterpants I agree that trek might not be the most exciting thing to look at, but your shortlist of 'exciting appeal' looks like the familiar rundown of desirable small-to-medium US boutique brands. Surely the Europeans and 'big' companies make exciting bikes too?
  • 8 1
 @mikekazimer , Probably you dont care, but I think the selection makes perfect sense and is quite nailed! and as used as you are to haters, just ignore them...! The habbit personally does it for me, trying to get my hands on one since the day I first saw it, its simply a bike that makes sense.
  • 2 3
 @mtnryder56- The Capra is a big Enduro machine while the Remedy is an xc light trail bike.
  • 2 0
 Duh! What $9K bike does not ride incredible?
  • 4 1
 There are a lot of really good bikes out there who would deserve a nomination, but these are some pretty solid picks. Props to pinkbike for choosing bikes they have actually ridden enough to review, way to many people here are scandalized but have only ridden the bikes on paper. I'm sure the evil following is awesome, but who am I to say it should win if I've never even seen one on the trails, let alone took one for a spin.

I've only tried the remedy, and it's definitely the most balanced bike I can think of. It could hold it's own in a XC race, and we saw how capable it is in the EWS competing against the latest and greatest enduro bikes. I felt confortable on it from the get go. Pinkbike picked the model they reviewed, but you can get the 9.8 for 5800$,the main difference being X1/xt groupset instead of XX1/xtr. I don't know if it's the best, but it's for sure a very very solid bike.

The cannondale is a bit of a wildcard, but it's the kind of bike that makes sense for a lot of people who don't have the terrain/skills/riding style to justify a slack long travel bike.
  • 3 0
 Agree with your comments @lanka, except your final one. It takes more skill to ride quick, short travel bikes in rough terrain, than it does a big bike. Watch the latest Orange video (on their hardtail) to see this in action. Most trails are not DH trails and most riders are riding bikes too big for the terrain, but it is kind of like those soccer moms driving the big, jacked up SUVs to the mall. It gives them more of a sense of security, even though they would probably have more fun and go faster on the type of trails they are riding with 120mm instead of 160mm.
  • 3 0
 You're absolutely right @Rubberelli, and people can ride whatever they like as long as it makes them happy. But it's still the kind of bike that makes most sense, people usually don't really need the travel, it's the slack geometry that actually give you confidence, and the habit is slack enough that you don't feel like you're going to die when things get rough.
  • 4 1
 If they changed the name of these picks from "bike of the year" to "bikes we really like right now" it would cut down on a lot of the criticisms.
  • 2 0
 @Zimmer68 that's a stupid award though, it should represent everything that came out in 2015, much more meaningful.
  • 3 2
 @jhlenterprises, From Pinbike's SB6C review: "The broken frame is a worrying thing, isn't it? I can't say that our SB6C, which was said to be a pre-production version, is recommendable given that it failed during testing." Yeah, that does sound like a bike-of-the-year winner right there.
  • 3 0
 It's okay @jhlenterprises, I understand that Pinkbike was given a pre-production version it's only flaw has been clearly fixed for regular production. I would also assume the Yeti SB6c would be in the top 3 bike-of-the-year nominees.
  • 1 0
 No Patrol??
  • 1 4
 I call baloney on the "ascends like a Saturn V rocket" statement about the Remedy. I don't doubt that it is a great bike, but this sounds like what a used car salesman would say in trying to get me to buy something.

We want you guys to review the bikes. When you give us such obvious gross exaggerations, I'm sorry but I don't believe you anymore. And no, I am not taking the "rocket" comment literally, but I simply do not believe that the Remedy climbs anywhere near as well as a bike like my Mojo HD3.
  • 6 1
 I call baloney on your statement, I don't know if you're trying to justify your purchase, but I don't see why a 29er with less travel and steeper geometry would not climb anywhere as well as your Mojo HD3. See northshorebikeshop comment below...
  • 3 4
 Didn't even know crack'n'fail still made bikes!?
  • 2 1
 The only time I've ever been on the Remedy is when I rented my girl one. I didn't really look at the bike at all, I just spun it around to show her how to use the dropper post. I thought I was on an XC bike. I didn't realize it was some great descender or anything. But it sure felt like it could take a hill like a Saturn 5.
  • 1 0
 @dthomp325 it won the EWS 2 years in a row, guess that dosen't matter? I've ridden it and it'll be my next race bike regardless of the review. Yeti has been great in the warranty dept with me thru the years, and the SB6 has one for 5 years now. The Canyon is pretty Badass as well, I'd love both!!!!!
  • 2 2
 I thought yeti would have been in it too, overpriced or not.

Evil? Are you crazy? Looks fast, rides fast, breaks fast.
  • 2 1
 And PB's review Yeti broke, so no surprise it didn't make their list. If I recall, there was another media outlt whose Yeti review model also broke, but I could be mistaken on that.
  • 3 1
 ...also a pre-production batch and also fixed before actual production. Have you heard of any actual production SB6c frame breaking?
  • 3 0
 @dirtworks911 I haven't heard any complaints, and with a 5 year warranty not even worried about it.

Can even count how many carbon spesh's I've seen broken this year, lol
  • 2 1
 Graves was close to winning the year before on the SB66 too. You can't argue with those stats. It must be an awesome bike, but awesome riders help. I mean, Danny Hart won the worlds on a Glory.
  • 1 0
 In disastrous conditions. Doesn't count in some ways as the variables increased tenfold. Ask Marc Beaumont about that haha or Matti lehikonnen
  • 1 4
 Typically, manufacturers make sure the press get stress tested products to review. This is standard public relations for any product whatsoever. This is why Consumer Reports buys all their products at retail- because they know that review models are quality assured before shipping. I can't say if someone at Yeti was asleep at the wheel or if there really is a production problem, but you can bet they sold many less models this year because of that screw up. All you can infer from Graves' victories is that a model built by Yeti withstood all stages of one race. He might have a new bike every race for all we know and they may be manufactured sturdier than retail versions. This is what the skateboard companies do for their pros. And Graves left Yeti this season. Might have been just for the money or it might have also been bike related. Sam Hill has said he went to Nukeproof for the bike.
  • 2 1
 @rubberelli being a guy who worked in the industry, I can tell you that if Graves broke some frames, you'd never know unless it was in the middle of a race and a photographer caught it on film. These guys don't roll like the rest of us at that level. Multi bikes, all the spare parts they need, full factory support. As for if he left for the money or because he didn't like the bike....really?!?!? Hahahaha! Cmon
  • 1 2
 A pro rider and his income are usually closely tied his results and if they are not confident on what they are riding, they might take less $$ frome a frame manufacturer to keep the income fron his component and apparel sponsors up by winning more. I find it hard to believe anyone but Spesh will pay Gwin more in 2016 and they definitely want #1, but he clearly will be on a new bike in 2016, according to Rob Warner.
  • 1 1
 @rubberelli not true. It's about the money…..and I have a secret for you….there's a german company that is going to pay an American rider a truck load of money to ride their bikes in 2016.
  • 1 0
 When is this german company gonna contact me?! Wink
  • 2 0
 soon….. hahhaa
  • 1 1
 I heard that Gwin wants to use the demo but on his own team. If this YT banter is true it would be cool. He did joke about the suspension working "good" without a chain after Leogang, which could have meant it doesn't work well with one @protour
  • 3 1
 All suspension works better w out a chain.... it's not a new thing.
  • 1 1
 Thanks to Warner, this was dropped a week or so ago @theedon. I believe your YT call as well. I wish it had been Intense, but that's life. Obvious from the piece that Loic will be on Spesh limiting the money they had for Gwin.
  • 1 1
 If Spesh can't afford Gwin how do you think YT will? Maybe because I'm in America but I've never even seen one in person. They are not a big company with deep pockets...
  • 1 1
 @Alias530 Hahahaha!! You'll see.
Anyhow, specialized can afford anyone. They didn't want him. The money is in enduro. Wait and see what happens to DH race teams over the next 2-3 years. Times they are a changing. Companies focus are sifting. Nobody is buying DH bikes
  • 1 0
 If Gwinn races on a YT next year, It would take that company to the next level. They would probably have no problem paying him from sales generated
  • 2 1
 While this may very well be Spesh's strategy @theedon and enduro bikes are vastly outsellung DH rigs, no one watches EWS races, they are way too expensive to film well, and WC viewing is up, so it is YT who is the smart one. Gwin races the Tues, films some videoa of him on the Capra and they have literally paid for him after selling a few hundred bikes (if he's gettig $500k as some are saying). It sounds like the suits at Spesh are not correlating race team success with sales of non-DH models even though pretty much all racing of any type, and any machine, is almost always some custom rig that people cannot afford or isnt even street legal.
  • 2 1
 specialized doesn't need him to sell bikes. They have a solid core team as it is. Him and Troy get the same exposure and Troy and Graves are better brand ambassadors then Gwin who's just chasing the money. wwjd? Results are good, but being a good person and not full of yourself with great results is just as good. amazing results and a genuinely good humble guy like Graves, now that's a guy to keep around.
  • 2 2
 @makripper - Gwin is constantly posting stuff on Instagram with all the Specialized hashtags... Brosnan posts way less and with zero hashtags. Just a small part of marketing but I'm having trouble understanding how Brosnan is a better brand ambassador. He comes across as an ungrateful little a*shole who crashes all the time then whines like he DESERVED the win.
  • 1 2
 Let's face it, if people are buying a bike because of a DH rider, that rider is most likely named Gwin, Hill, Atherton, Bryceland, Peat or Minnaar. It takes time to build up a loyal fanbase unless you're the Rat, with a certain screw- it-all attitude that instantly propelled him to bike superstardom. Other than that, you chase team wins. I'm betting Loic goes to Spesh so they may stay as the dominant team, with the Syndicate providing tough competition.
  • 1 1
 @Alias530 and graves has less followers on pinkbike than me. whats your point? a brand ambassador is someone who accurately portrays an image. Look at Ropelato and the benedicts, and all the other cool people working for and with them. @Rubberelli The rat has been on the WC scene for years! I think if first started seeing him come up around 2006? that's not instant by any means.
  • 1 3
 @makripper He does not have less followers than you... followers on a pinkbike account is very different from mainstream marketing like instagram. That's nitpicking though, just trying to say that Brosnan doesn't seem into the "game" as much as Gwin. Skill aside, I'd rather have Gwin promoting for my company on social media by the way he does it.
  • 1 2
 I have never, nor do I know anyone who has ever bought a bicycle because of what pro gets paid to ride it. Who cares? NO ONE
  • 1 1
 Oh sure, and who has ever bought a sports product because their favorite athlete endorses it, or a product a celebrity endorses? Obviously the entire mega billion marketing industry based on third party endorsements doesnt work at all and the largest corproations in the world are just flushing their money down the toilet because people would buy their product no matter what. That sounds comoletely reasonable.
  • 1 1
 @theedon is naïve and apparently impervious the powers of advertising. You and all of your friends have bought something because you saw someone ride it/race it you just don't know it. Does that mean you carefully buy only what your favorite pro runs? No, not necessarily, but you see these bikes, and you see them raced... successfully and a lust grows inside you. You can't control it. Wink
  • 2 0
 Nah man. Most get what they can afford. Got my giant because it's best bang for the buck or lack of not because some dude rides it.
  • 1 0
 Shhh @darkstar63, you will put all of the marketers out of business if consumers realize what is happening to them is purely suggestive.
  • 2 1
 @DARKSTAR63 !!! I just realized that you're the same guy that was arguing with me about my PUSH shock! Are you stocking me? How's mountain biking in Connecticut?!?! What I buy has nothing to do with what a pro rides. Promise @DARKSTAR63 !! Haha! Do you think everyone is a brainless zombie?
  • 1 0
 I kid ... mostly. I'm just saying, advertising works- and It works on most people, even though they would like to think it doesn't. To think otherwise is slightly ignorant. I also buy what I like , and not what the "pros ride" but I can admit that seeing bikes and parts in the World Cup adds to their sex appeal.
  • 1 0
 @makripper - unless you're talking about used bikes, most bikes cost about the same for a given spec level (comparing carbon frames to carbon frames, XX1 to XX1, X01 to X01, XT to XT, etc), within a couple hundred anyway. This sport is expensive enough that a couple hundred doesn't (shouldn't) matter.
  • 3 1
 @Alias530 LOL I got my carbon Giant glory advanced for just over 5k, brand new from store. I don't what fantasy world you live in. IF you try really hard you can spend as much as you want. There are lots of people who just throw there money at pretty fancy things. I am guessing you are trying to justify a purchase? let me guess, you also have an iphone too right?
  • 2 1
 let me guess, you also have an iphone too right? LOL!
  • 3 1
 @brncr6 the 6s plus 128gb is around 2,000 CAD. I would have way more friends and people would like me more if i had one!
  • 1 0
 @makripper wtf are you blabbing about?

I'm saying that similarly equipped bikes cost about the same. For example, Santa Cruz Tallboy vs Specialized Epic. Both with a carbon frame and X01 build kits will cost "ABOUT" the same. If you step down to the aluminum frame and or a X1 or GX groupset, they'll again cost "ABOUT" the same. Exceptions obviously exist for brands like YT that sell direct or boutique brands with limited production.

The same as Android vs iPhone. Flagship models both cost about the same. Sure, you can get a phone that "has the Android operating system on it" for cheaper than the cheapest iPhone but it's a low end piece of shit. Flagship comparable Android and iPhone models both cost about the same.
  • 2 0
 @Alias530 no they don't. a galaxy s6 32gb is 700$ CAD and an iphone 6plus 32gb is $1150 what planet do you come from where those prices are similar?

a top of the line trek DH bike is 12k a top of the line giant DH bike is just over 8k.
  • 1 0
 To my knowledge they do not make a 32gb iphone 6. About $150 separates them but the I-phone is a 64gb....

The Session 9.9 is $9999, Giant Glory Advanced $8500 msrp. Sram spec vs Shimano/Fox. The Session is nice, the Glory may edge it out "value" wise but it's not a landslide victory imo. I'd rather have the Session. I don't know why the 30% difference in Canada...
  • 1 0
 oops your right about the phones! still a huge difference if you look at specs too. the specs of the iphone are shit compared to the galaxy s6.

my bad, the session 9.9 in Canada is $12,999.99 figure that out! the session is shimano/fox and the giant is sram/RS i'd say it's pretty even. I'd even bet on the Giant being lighter with the ex471's, xo drivetrain vs saint as well as you could upgrade the fork to air for $200 if you wanted to save almost a pound more...
  • 1 0
 I love Trek but I'll also be the first to admit that they can be in outer space sometimes on their pricing.... I was looking into a Remedy carbon frameset and they want crazy money. Yeah I would be pretty happey with a Glory, and I'm betting you are right, between the Boxxer WC and Sram groupo it's got to be lighter.
  • 1 0
 same here man, I always wanted a Trek too. they are so sick! It's a shame it's gotten a little out of hand. I do ok salary wise, but couldn't imagine spending that much on a bicycle that i will just reck haha
  • 1 0
 I currently ride a 2011 Remedy as my go to trail bike and I love it. I bought a 2010 frame used, broke it and purchased the one I'm riding now at crash replacement pricing from Trek. I would like to get something more "current" but the bike just rides so damn well. I'm not ready to move on.
  • 2 1
 @makripper I'm thinking you are too dumb to converse with but I'll try again... the planet I live on is America, where flagship phones cost about $600-700 without contract renewal or $200-300 with contract renewal. You can't compare your stupid Canada price gouging shit to the rest of the civilized world.

Secondly, you can't compare "top of the line" to "top of the line" between different companies when that means two different things. A top of the line Civic is going to cost a lot less than a top of the line Lambo, but that's not a fair comparison because they top out at different levels.

Comparing a carbon framed bike with the same components between manufacturers will be about the same. For example, Evil Following X01 build and Stumpjumper Expert. The Stumpjumper is $600 cheaper, but comes with X1 instead of X01, hence the price gap.

Trek's higher level carbons are stupid expensive. That aside, compare bikes with similar specs (ex: carbon frame with X01 build or aluminum frame with SLX build) and you'll see that prices are all in the same ballpark. I'm not talking about last years clearance shit. I'm talking about current retail prices.
  • 2 0
 planet #murica fff yeaaaaa. a top of the line civic is not a top of the line honda. top of the line honda is actually acura. so what are you trying to say? maybe your english don't work no good now.

no one is talking about last years clearance shit but you. pahaha man you dont have good englush
  • 2 3
 Wtf are you even talking about? I'm saying that comparing "top of the line" from Brand X is not necessarily a fair comparison to "top of the line" from Brand Y, because "top of the line" means different things to different manufacturers.

Comparing apples to apples, bikes are similarly priced or they wouldn't sell. Same groupset, frame material, and fork are going to be within a couple hundred bucks of each other. I'm waiting for you to prove me wrong. You have to put words in my mouth in order to make me wrong, which makes YOU wrong.

I wouldn't expect some idiot child 15 year old like you to understand.
  • 2 1
 Bro dont even me.
  • 145 2
 I'm butthurt. My current bike is not on the list and I know it's the best evarrr because I ride it.
  • 10 0
 When did you switch to Patrol then.... :p
  • 17 1
 I agree. I spent so much on it, I can't believe that PB is not championing it and validating my buying decision, which in reality was entirely based on a discount I was able to receive, rather than what was most praised by PB.
  • 40 9
 I think an e-bike should be represented since it is the fastest growing and currently most innovative genre in MTB.
  • 9 7
 Hahaha........... He said E bike........go join a motocross forum it might be more your speed.
  • 3 0
 God damn @WAKIdesigns , don't say that, we're all in denial. lol
  • 5 0
 It's too early to be drunk Waki.
  • 117 16
 I don't think any of these bikes would have been in my top 5 or even top 10.
  • 28 18
 What's your list? ... and have you ridden all three of these?
  • 8 2
 That Remedy is just a great bike, especially with the new shock. Not as burly as the Enduro 29er, but I believe a much overall better bike. If I was to go back on a 29er that would be it.
  • 6 1
 @EnduroFAn84: This isn't a list of your or my picks for BOTY, It's PB's.
  • 4 1
 I know that, I'm just stating my opinion
  • 7 6
 We want your top 5 !
  • 25 30
flag EnduroFan84 FL (Dec 22, 2015 at 13:18) (Below Threshold)
 1. Evil insurgent 2. Transition Scout 3. Pivot Phoenix 4. Santa Cruz v10 5. Nicolai Mojo geometron
  • 7 1
 How many of these have you actually rode? My bet is most PB editors have ridden most of them. I have certainly seen lots of SC, Evil and Pivot ads on here, so that can't be it...
  • 12 1
 Ouch, did you fellas demand his top 5 list just to neg prop it?! LOL
  • 4 0
 Plus, he made a pretty good list. The V10 is the only one I've ridden, but the others all sound interesting.
  • 2 0
 No I haven't ridden any, I was asked what my top five was so I gave the top five bikes that I would buy based on reviews and what I've heard. I never said I was qualified to nominate bikes for this list I just said that these aren't on my top five list of bikes I would buy.
  • 1 0
 Here is my list of the five that sound the most interesting: 1. Liteville 601 MK 3, 2. Nukeproof Mega TR 29, 3. Intense M16c, 4. Canondale Habit, 5. Specialized Demo.
The Habit is the only one I've demoed (fun as shit) and most of the others I'm interested based on what I read on PB or else because it looks weird and Aaron Gwin dominated on it. But I will let PB tell me that the Remedy and Tues were more worthy.
  • 5 1
 So you criticised PBs top bikes, which they based on their reviews of the bikes, but then made your own top 5 based on online reviews?
  • 2 1
 I didn't criticize PB's list. In fact, I am conceding that they know much more than I.
  • 2 0
 Didn't know it was looked down upon to judge bikes and how they suit your riding style based on reviews. Also I didn't say I had a bike of the year list just a bikes I would buy list.
  • 3 0
 I didn't down prop you @EnduroFan84 I really was curious about what you would pick. If I could buy one bike right now, money no object it would be an Evil Following. The Insurgent looks good too but there is something funky cool about the 29 platform to me. I have never owned a 29, and at this point in my riding life I like to ride bikes that are different, things I have not tried.
  • 4 0
 If money was no object, I would pay Yeti to make a custom TLD painted SB6c (large) that had a toptube that was 0.75" longer while keeping the seattube height the same, threaded BB shell, and with Trek's ABP on the rear just for shits and giggles. I would build it up with the new float X2 shock but with a custom climb switch, an inverted 170mm 36 Talus (170mm to 140mm), with a full 2017 Saint "Trail" 11 speed groupo that comes with carbon cranks, a 11 x 42 cassette, and brakes that have more modulation than their current ones. I would also throw a 165mm Rock Shox Reverb with Kashima coating (to match my Fox stuff) that wouldn't have to be warrantied, ever. If I could get all this, I wouldn't even be upset if it didn't come with Enve wheels. Wink
  • 90 11
 Two bikes for Dentists and retirees and 1 bike that essentially is getting the title of the "Peoples bike"... should be an easy win for YT haha
  • 4 3
 Because it's a good deal makes it an easy win? Since when does a bike geek buy a bike solely based on the low price? I don't think they factor the price in their evaluation. That's just a bonus for the consumer.
  • 7 1
 I was more talking about which one was going to be the most well received by the pinkbike public. I guess at least 33 people agree with me... haha
  • 3 3
 basically since... ever. or how many full enve, kashima/öhlins/ bos builds do you see around your town?
  • 2 8
flag Rubberelli (Dec 22, 2015 at 11:30) (Below Threshold)
 The Habit is only $200USD more than the Tues.
  • 9 11
 Guys, guys! just because I said the habit and 9.9 was for retirees and doctor types doesn't mean it just has to do with the price... hahaha Relax everyone lol I personally have yet to see a guy below the age of about 55 on a cannondale.... man haha people are so angry on pinkbike haha holy hahaha.
  • 3 3
 I see Jekylls all the time at the bike park.
  • 15 1
 I saw one Jekyll at the bike park this year...and it was cracked.
  • 4 1
 YT FTW.
  • 5 3
 Crackandfail for a reason
  • 4 1
 @dcm6861 Frames snap when ridden past what they were intended for. Do you really want me to post my snapped Specialized album? Snapped frames are almost entirely as a result of rider error and (lack of) judgement.

"But I was just riding it along…."
  • 4 3
 @allix2456 Don't get defensive. Cannondale earned this nickname a long time ago.
  • 4 0
 They sure did! Like in the 90's when they dared to make these radical new things called 'Mountain Bikes' and then again when they dared to add rear suspension to them. Of course, every other frame manufacturer was having failures as well. Cdale just had the perfect moniker to make a funny nickname out of. BTW- Cdale has a lifetime warranty on their frames.
  • 2 0
 Advanced designed like the cantilever drop outs leading the way... Cannondale is legendary!
  • 49 8
 Vote for the discount bike just cause the bike industry needs a punch in the throat for its price structure
  • 21 9
 This punch in throat they need is to eliminate bike shops?
  • 14 15
 Sure, why not eliminate bike shops. I haven't been satisfied with one in years.
  • 12 2
 You must live in a bad spot. About 80% around me are great.
  • 2 0
 If the structure of the bikes shops results in the large of a price discrepancy, then, maybe. YT and their ilk are here now. It's up to bikeshops to respond to the market pressure and be good at what they do. If they are good they will make it. If they just lament changing market standards, they will die off.
  • 1 0
 The market changing will be entirely dependent up the bike brands who would choose to sell direct rather than to shops. Luckily, bikes are like clothes rather than electronics. People want to try them on first. So while some will shop online for a discount, most seem to want to kick the tires first.
  • 4 1
 Really? Get rid of bike shops? I guess I was unaware that the majority of riders have all the necessary tools and know how to do 99% of repairs to their bikes. Look up the price of master mechanic tool set, factor in the knowledge of countless hours of training, service certification, and expirience, then maybe you'll understand the need for bike shops. Don't get me wrong we will and are seeing a shift in how things will be done in the bike industry and shops that don't adapt will die, but bike shops as a whole aren't the problem.
  • 1 0
 I think you're right about good shops surviving. I think the problem is over priced bikes from the manufacturers.
Bike shops are going to pay for the industry being too greedy.
All I use shops for is buying maintamce parts. No way I'm paying a 35% mark up on a bike. I'll buy used before I support that.
  • 1 0
 A 35% mark up isn't the industry being greedy that's the base mark up for a business owner to make a little money not just trade dollar bills. Any new bike sold at a shop usually comes with at least a year of free service, professional assembly, and some one to go to bat for you if there's an issue (warranty or otherwise) with the bike. All of those things take time which means they all have monetary value. Not mention the ridiculous amount of insurance a bike shop has to pay for. The mark up isn't the problem...the wholesale is the problem. Bike shops don't determine what the manufacturer approved price is.
  • 2 0
 There it is....the industry is the problem.
  • 2 0
 The truth is no one part of the industry is "the problem". There are many moving parts, and many ways to skin the cat. That's why so many people can't imagine shops going away-they deal with a good one, or are lucky and have many good ones! The people saying shops can go bye-bye probably haven't had a good experience recently. No one model works across the board. That was my original point. If shops look at what is changing and figure out how to benefit from it they will succeed, and probably majorly. If they whine about online sales, they will be overtaken by online sales. I wonder if the Dunbar Cycles storefronts hate the Dunbar website sales. Sites can compliment stores!
  • 2 0
 The industry as the problem argument really comes down to the cost of R&D. It is a cycle of constant innovation which costs money. It is not Diamondback making the big $$$, by not innovating, sourcing its own parts rather than going to a third party for a build kit, and selling them cheaply ($1k for a FS) to large store chains that don't provide the services of a bike shop. It is the brands building $8k superbikes making the $$$ with the consumer demanding the latest and greatest and a shit ton of service to go with that huge purchase. It is supply and demand after all. The guy buying the $1k Diamondback at Sports Authority may own the bike for 5-10 years, ride it 4 times a year and get it tuned up once over the life of the bike and buy one set of new tires for it costing $20 each. The $8k enthusiast rides his 4 times a week, goes through a couple of sets of $75 each tires a year, spends hundreds on the bike, and sells it and gets a new one every three years. If every superbike maker were to build the exact same models as they do this year for the next five years, no changes, those $8k bikes could be $2k bikes by year three. But that's not where the demand is. It's in the latest and greatest and whoever is doing that would be making the big $$$.
  • 1 0
 I'll take the year 3 super bike for 2KSmile
Good points. I like the trickle down of innovation, but I'm not willing to pay for it in year one. As for great support from manufacturers for new bikes...that's debatable. I know 3 guys who have lost the better part of a season waiting for replacement parts for new bikes.
The shop ships the parts away. 6-8 weeks later the part comes, or in one case 10weeks. If I spend over 5K on a bike and there is a manufacturers mistake, I want a loaner bike till it gets replaced.
Here ,there was no offer of a loaner bike during the wait. What did I just pay the shop a 35% mark up for?
  • 1 0
 You're in luck @warehouse because Dback and even big boys like Spesh and Cdale have discount models that are not the latest and greatest and cost way less. 35% is relatively little markup btw. Most things you buy in this world have a higher markup than that. I worked for a brewery. We sold 12packs for $10 to wholesalers, who sold yhem to stores, who sold them to consumers for $20. Bike brands usually sell directly to shops which is why it is as little as 35% markup.
  • 1 0
 @warehouse it sounds like the shops in your area are a large part of your disdain for the lbs model. That sucks and I'm genuinely sorry to hear it.
  • 2 0
 Oh yeah they suck alright. I buy the occasional tube, that's about it. The closest good shop is 45 mins. That's where I go for actual service. The far shop is the kind that should survive. Great service, no attitude. Really, my attitude towards the indistry is based on bad experience with my local shop. It's not fair of me to paint the whole industry with the same brush.
  • 37 2
 Error 404: Bike of the Year Not Found
  • 43 14
 These are the nominees? very dissapointing
  • 24 14
 This article seems to be missing the "sponsored" tag.
  • 19 3
 @Frowzy, what would your choices be?
  • 8 1
 Have you guys ridden these bikes? The amount of whining going on down here is unreal. Ive spent a lot of time on several bikes this year, and that Remedy 29 is the real deal. PB is not the only media source praising the Trek, its freaking amazing.
  • 13 0
 I was honestly expecting the sb6 to at least be a nominee. Won the ews overall, excellent looking and has an original suspension design. Either way I'm just glad there's not a Nomad on the list, if I have to spend another year listening to my nomad owning friends about how it's the best ever I'll probably shoot myself
  • 6 0
 @mikekazimer I thought maybe the Canyon Strive would be on the list
  • 5 0
 @Tmackstab.. That's awesome.
Its like the Federal Election.. 3 shitty choices.
  • 2 0
 "the amount of whining going on down here is amazing" This quote should be adopted as the motto of the pinkbike comment section. Well said!
  • 23 2
 I, Joe Rider, disagree with your professional opinion formed of a career riding and writing detailed reviews of a bunch of different bikes, and want to see a hyped up mtb-hipster bike from a brand I deem cool to be made bike of the year. In fact, sirs, I demand it. I demand it, I say.
  • 26 4
 Tues no question
  • 31 2
 Well it is Tuesday after all!...
  • 19 0
 needs the HD3 and insurgent
  • 24 7
 Hey now, let's all just be glad that there are no plus bikes on this list.
  • 23 7
 the remedy is one of the best bikes out there
  • 3 3
 Depends how you ride. I thought it was terrible.
Wallowy crap drcv might feel how some people like their bikes to feel.
But not others.
And they're designed where it's flat. And everyone still runs long stems. So when you put a short stem on it for more aggressive riding.
It just isn't a long enough bike for the size.
And when you buy the next size up to get a better wheelbase.
The seat tube is too tall and usually can't fit the 6" dropper we'd all love.
Plus, The bearings get pressed right into the carbon bb shell. So that loosens up with time and you've gotta get trek special edition bigger bearings.
Till those get loose too and you have to glue them in. Which voids the warranty. Even though the defect is their fault in the first place.
But all that doesn't mean it can't be the best bike in the world for someone.
  • 1 0
 OK, so assuming you think the Remedy is great, does it really "ascend like a Saturn V rocket" or is that just bullshit sales talk?
  • 2 0
 i have a remedy 29 model 7 2014 and the bike shreds. i take it to the park and the local trails because it simply can do it all.but my model did have room for improvement starting with the suspension. i got a aurom 150mm and push industries upgrade for the shock and it is a beast now.i take it off 20 foot drops and it takes it like a champ.when you have to go up it climbs very well but it is no rocket..................but there test bike only weighs 25 pounds compared to mying which weighs near 33 pounds...........so i do not doubt that there model ascend like a rocket
  • 13 0
 Wow...."pick your favourite bike and be a dick about it" would be appropriate here.
  • 1 0
 Here being pinkbike?
  • 16 2
 Transition Patrol....done!
  • 10 0
 What? I can't believe the Knolly, Scott, Yeti, Canyon, Norco, Polygon, Evil, Specialized, Felt, BMC, Giant, Santa Cruz, Intense, Ellsworth, Kona, Transition, KHS, KTM, Banshee, Diamondback, Morpheus, Liteville, Rocky Mountain, Morewood, GT, Madison-Saracen, LaPierre, DeVinci, Mongoose, Turner, Jamis, Bulls, Orange, etc. didn't make the list. What were you guys thinking?
  • 3 0
 Madison is lead sponsor for Saracen bikes factory race team...just saying.
  • 2 0
 @VwHarman- Didn't know that.^^^ But I also forgot a bunch including Commencal, Canfield, Bergemont and probably 100 more. My point is there are a gazillion bike labels, and so many models within those brands that there's no way you can pick a few bikes to review and make the esteemed readers of Pinkbike happy. Besides, we all know that the new carbon Warden is the best bike ever.
  • 2 0
 Truthfully, I learned that not too long ago as well, and just passed it on! Your not wrong-the reality is that if you have enjoyed riding a bike in a generally downhill direction, you are spoiled with options. I remember when I started riding actual fun stuff (read not xc) the bikes we had in 1998 or so. It is a treat to ride new bikes. They are stupidly good!
  • 1 0
 Oh God - how did I forget Ibis? The HD3 is funomenal!
  • 12 1
 I have a remedy 29 and I love it more than any other bike I have or have ever owned
  • 12 1
 leov uses the remedy 29 instead of the slash because it is way better
  • 6 3
 Leov's remedy is very unique, far from stock model.
  • 5 3
 yes but its the frame that really matters
  • 2 0
 And the 2016 remedy is pretty close to what the team uses now
  • 7 0
 Shit, It might be just my opinion but the winner should be a bike you can fly with at the bikepark and the day after you can pedal it to the top of the mountain without having to struggle with too less travel, a shitty pedal efficiency or worrying about breaking it...
  • 4 3
 Yeti sb5c
  • 7 1
 So, you're casting your vote for the Remedy?
  • 3 0
 Remedy gets my vote. I own the 2015 remedy 7 27.5 and it's an amazing bike. You honestly can ride it at a bike park and the only place where it feels like it's getting out of its league is really techy chunky natural trails. A dropper post and a fork that's stiffer than the revelation would make it a VERY capable bike on everything from bike park to long xc climbs.
  • 10 0
 That time of year when we vote for bikes we mostly have not ridden and choose our favorite.
  • 15 5
 Hmmmm.... did the peanut gallery ride all of these bikes before offering informed opinions?
  • 5 1
 I have rode the trek and the YT. I haven't ridden the Cannondale. I actually don't even know where the nearest Cannondale dealer is if I for some reason wanted to ride it haha
  • 14 2
 I guess I just won't ever understand the mentality.... if you have a sports car that's the fastest around the track, but it's outside an everyman's budget, do we not talk about it? I love reading about bikes, even ones that are currently out of reach.
I love reading about Porsches and I love reading about 10k mountain bikes.
  • 14 2
 Like the Trek for instance... I have not ridden it, but going off the overwhelming positive reviews from multiple sources and the sheer fact that it's a 25lb long travel 29 inch bike with progressive geometry I'll bet it flat out rips. I don't doubt that blows most other machines away. A bike like this deserves credit, the price tag to me is irrelevant.
  • 5 8
 Honestly the car world is not the bike world in any way, The car world loves Halo Projects. The bike world loves to see affordable shred sleds, and therefor when companies come out with bikes only affordable to those with a ton of cash they aren't as well received.

The bike of the year should be a bike that can be attained by the largest percentage of riders and their budget, and is capable to take on the widest range of challenges found when riding a mountain bike. Out of these 3 if they hadn't picked the Remedy 9.9 I wouldn't have disagreed with them; being able to spend a few weeks on one its understandable why these bikes are very very popular.
  • 5 2
 I don't agree. YOU love to see affordable shred sleds. Others do too, but people also like to read about all kinds of bikes. Also, the criteria is not at all what you think it SHOULD be, it's what's stated at the top of this page. Besides, two of these bikes are 5k? Is that completely out of reach? I don't think so ... not when we are talking about "best in class performance" I sometimes get the feeling the "largest percentage of riders and their budget" here on Pinkbike is $00.... Which is fine, but who wants to read that article?
  • 2 11
flag Kitejumping (Dec 22, 2015 at 11:21) (Below Threshold)
 Talking about the trek for example, I don't need to ride it to know it wouldn't be as fun as a canfield riot or evil following (two other 29ers with similar travel). Just looking at the geometry specs the chainstay length is too long for my tastes, I'm sure it is a great bike for xc racers that want more travel but wouldn't be my pick for bike of the year on a site that is more AM/DH/freeride oriented.
  • 4 1
 @brockfisher05 :

You can buy a Cannondale at BSP. There's a store in Langley, probably about 15 min's by car from your home.

I disagree that BOTY should be a bike that can be attained by the largest percentage of riders and their budget. Simply because one person is a doctor doesn't mean I'm ready to plunk down $9000. On the other hand there are people who work have a fraction of that income and would spend $7-8K on a bike, in a heart beat. Forget personal budget, focus on a bike that performs better than the rest and all you have to do is look at a lower spec'd version if your budget is compromised.
  • 5 1
 First of all let's get this out there, I want to ride an Evil Following, that bike looks killer. But that said, geometry numbers can be deceiving, they tell a part of the story to an educated rider but It's not the end all. The overall balance is important, it's why not every bike deserves the shortest chain stay possible. the Trek appears to be much more than an XC bike, it's clearly capable of Enduro wins and is the weapon of choice for Trek's riders over the Slash, which on paper at least, would seem the best choice.
  • 2 1
 I'm just basing my opinion off those who I have talked too and how I see it. It's alright that you disagree.
  • 4 2
 So Justin Loev is an XC racer? Must have missed how he destroyed the field early in the year on a Remedy or glorified XC rig. Winning enduro rounds definitely has no place on PB you're right.
  • 4 1
 I've ridden the Remedy a couple times. Once to try and it, and again a couple years later because I'd heard so many people raving about it. I was not impressed either time.
  • 11 3
 "I'm just basing my opinion off those I've talked to, lol, hahahaha" 27 yrs old.
"I don't need to ride the Trek because I know its not fun because of it's geometry" 28 yrs old.

Sometimes I think the most dangerous/annoying person in the world is the dude between 26-29 who thinks he knows everything. Grow up you two clowns, especially the douche with the "lol. hahahahaha" shit. Your the diarrhea of the internet, not adding a thing to the discussion other than your worthless and bullshit opinion.
  • 9 0
 "you kids get off my lawn!" -47 years old.
  • 3 0
 Are you implying the bike world doesn't love halo projects? I just read an article about the geometron 29r that was built to prove that 29rs suck. I remember a bible of bike test issue from around 2013 that directly referred to the carbon v10 as a Halo bike. People still talk about the Honda dh bike. Including minnaar in that last soho bikes interview. Bike industry isn't the same scale as auto, sure, but we still love halo projects.
  • 1 0
 @deadtime having demoed like 15 bikes this year back to back over a weekend I came to the conclusion that you can tell how a bike handles based on its geo before riding it, it's a personal preference. Just like an XC racer would probably hate a slack ht unstable short cs bike, I found for MY style of riding bikes with long chainstays are not as fun. For the speeds hit in enduro races a more stable bike lIke the remedy or sb6c would be ideal. IMHO there should be more categories for different uses.
  • 2 0
 Are you suggesting that you have taken the "mature, I'm an established, older gentleman who is worldly and experienced and I've learned from scholars the world over" and then call someone another word for poo? I fail to follow the logic there..
  • 1 2
 I was that age myself once and probably just as insufferable and maybe still. And maybe I was a little cranky cuz I didn't get my nap!
The Remedy is obviously a great bike (I haven't ridden it). I get a little sensitive when I spot negative bias towards a brand, whether that's Specialized or Trek, the two brands that bring it out the most. When the two guys I was referring to post over 10 comments, all negative, I just feel the need to respond in kind. Regardless of price or geometry the bike must be special or it wouldn't get so much publicity or praise. Now, I gotta go get those pesky kids off my lawn.
  • 1 0
 @deadtime "The Remedy is obviously a great bike (I haven't ridden it)." Then how do you know? All we know for certain is that Spec and Trek are the two biggest brands. They have to build bikes any potential customer will get along with, and they have the marketing muscle to get publicity and praise. This is how it works for any consumer good, and when you're a single minded 20something with special needs it's frustrating.
  • 1 1
 @scottzg You know it's a good bike based on the reviews, and the people you meet while riding. What your implying is that the reviews might not be honest and the people I meet have generic needs. If Kazimer gives a good review to an Evil or Ibis or yeti is it to be believed more than the review he gives to the Spesh or Trek? I say no, and it sounds like you say otherwise. I'm not nearly the cynic you are. Do you honestly think a company with the resources like Trek or Spesh would spend huge amounts on research/development and then make a boring bike and then spend huge amounts on bribes to hide that their bikes aren't good? That's called paranoia.
  • 2 0
 I'm not really cynical, i just think a bike that's designed for mass appeal isn't gonna have much to fuss about when you're writing reviews for an unknown audience, and all bikes are pretty great (and fairly similar) nowadays. Big brands are gonna get lots of reviews and riders and they're good bikes. Boring isn't the issue, but some riders are looking for a bike that is compromised in some ways so it will excel in others. Fanatics.

Me, I'm 30% bigger/taller than your average cyclist, and that's a problem. Brands/models that push the envelope for light weight, run proprietary shocks (spec/trek), or high leverage ratios (spec) are dismissed out of hand. It's not the bike's fault.
  • 12 1
 what ?
  • 7 1
 This will be an unpopular opinion... but lefties are extremely nimble and loads of fun. I've never had a Habit but I had a Lefty Rush and that thing cornered like a beast. As far as XC is concerned, I think the trouble and cost of maintaining a Lefty is worth it.
  • 2 0
 To be honest I'd be as inclined to buy it as the other three! The remedy, it may be nice, there's no getting away from it, but for the second or two it may slash on my strava times, I'd use the money to buy a TVR s2!!!! It'll be way more fun and won't lose 6k of value in a years time!!!!! You've got to be a complete prick to buy one, unless it's got discount or is subsidised by a hook up deal or summat!!!! (Unless you have bear cashews rolling around, then fair play!!!!) :-)
  • 6 0
 Hey, these aren't my favorite songs! No 'Stairway to Heaven?' What about 'Who Let the Dogs Out?' Didn't even mention 'Low Spark of High Heeled Boys.' You guys are lame!
  • 7 1
 Why would one not agree with the direct-to-consumer sales model? Unless pinkbike readers are a bunch of big wigs from the big bike companies...I think we are A-OK with it
  • 8 3
 Because its directly opposed to the LBS model. I realize that there are many shops that don't care about MTB, but those that make it their focus can be a primary source of stoke/energy in a riding community. Being able to touch product, try on gear and test ride a bike are still big selling points. Local knowledge of trails, tires, gear and setup can make or break a customers riding experience. Having someone in your corner when you have a failure/warranty issue makes the process smooth and easy. This model is still the best way for a company to represent themselves to the consumer. The product will cost more but its not without its benefits.
  • 3 1
 The only way doesn't make it the best way. Money talks, and for the most part that is all the company (profit) and consumer (final bill) ultimately care about. This model satisfies that. Local knowledge is great, but it doesn't result in customized models from a LBS. It results in the LBS saying, oh you want a 50mm stem not a 90mm? Well that's gonna cost ya...

Warranty tends to be a reflection of the bike company itself, not the man in the middle.
  • 7 0
 I'm not saying that its the only model, I see them as being able to coexist because there will always be consumers who know what they want or don't have a shop nearby that caters to their needs. But not all shops are the same, and I'd say the majority of consumers are not hard-core enthusiasts who follow the industry with a microscope (like a lot of Pinkbikers seem to). They need/want someone with experience and opinions to guide them through the purchase process. At my shop I specifically stock and recommend products that excel on our local trails, I don't just push whatever the latest trends are unless I've ridden them and feel they're worth it. Hell I still sell more 26" tires then any other size. I offer fully custom built bikes from the frame up, or you can do a complete package and I'll swap out whatever you want for something of equal value at no extra charge. Don't like the tires? No problem. Short stem/wide bar? Lets do it. Want to add a chainguide to a complete bike? Buy the part at a reduced cost, no charge for the install. Are you saying that YT will change out parts to tailor it for what you want? They going to switch you to Magic Mary's if you don't like High Roller 2's?

Every brand has failures, how it gets handled makes all the difference. If you didn't buy your bike from a shop, then you're having to contact company/obtain RA (which can be a nightmare itself depending on the brand), disassemble, ship, then reassemble. That's a lot of time that most people who can afford a decent bike would prefer not to waste, if they are even capable of properly doing the work. Most consumers would rather bring it in, have it fixed free of charge, and pick it up when its ready. I have to eat the labor and shipping but that's part of the deal.

Again, I never said LBS model is the only way. But its still the right choice for a lot of consumers and companies who are concerned with the quality of the process AND the product.
  • 2 0
 That makes sense and I cant disagree with it. I've never had the pleasure of walking into a shop that operates like that. Your business will be just fine if this opposing model becomes more prevalent. Hopefully this internal industry competition forces more LBSs to operate like yours to be successful.

I was the one who said the LBS is the only way, because up until this point, it literally has been. I still don't understand why people wouldn't "agree" with this model, as the article states. I don't even get the sense from you that you don't agree with it.
  • 3 0
 I understand why it exists, and now that its a reality I can adapt or go under. Our economy is built on providing something cheaper than the other guy, but that raises a greater question of 'overall purchase value'. Does the better price come with a sacrifice in service/experience? To stay relevant the LBS has to provide something that mail-order/consumer direct brands can't. I still feel that both brand and consumer can potentially be better served by 'boots on the ground' versus 'drone strikes' through the mail/email if a shop executes properly. On a personal level I don't agree with the consumer direct model because fundamentally it goes against everything I've spent the last twelve years building, a true small business experience where the customer can trust the owner/employee implicitly. Professionally, I welcome any and all competition because at the end of the day I'm willing to bet on my people skills, my knowledge of the industry, my passion for riding, and the belief that the right bike with the right setup can truly change someone's life.

Cheers
  • 6 0
 No Camber/Stumpjumper? In-frame storage was the most revolutionary thing we saw this year. Yeah, I know, it's Spec. Still, pretty awesome idea.
  • 7 1
 Gimmick of the year
  • 4 0
 I think a lot of people are disappointed because this is primarily a DH/Freeride/Enduro audience. Obviously, there are a lot of DJ, BMX and XC/Trail riders here too. It's just that 2 of the bikes on the list fit into the XC/trail category.

Yes, YT definitely belongs on the list in my humble opinion but with all the great reviews on Yeti and Pivot why are they not on the list?

I personally would have 10 nominees for each category/discipline. You can't possibly compare a DH rig to that of an XC rig can you?
  • 4 0
 The reason I hate to go to Oscar parties, outside of the fact that watching them is like watching paint dry, is that people are absolutely certain those three movies they haven't seen yet are not worthy and there is no way that they are as good as the ones that they have seen.
  • 4 0
 As so many others I'm not really happy with that list. I do realize, that this is about the personal preference of the PB testers, but still... Well, at least I can see why the Habit made it on the list. As so often, Cannondale does things a little differently.

But the other two?

This is not budget bike of the year, right? So, what exactly does the Tues do better than an Intense M16c or Santa V10?

And with the Tues on the list, allround capability or "do it all bike" also does not seem to have been the selection criteria, so why not a bike like the Kona Process 167? Or, as others have already mentioned, the Evil Insurgent? The Pivot Mach4?

And if alround capability does matter, why not the Specialized S-Works Enduro?

My personal bike of the year would have been the Scott Voltage, by the way. A DH bike for the average rider, not designed to win World Cups on, but simple, quite affordable, and capable of accepting a dual crown as well as a single crown fork, the perfect Park machine.
  • 10 3
 Cant see a knolly podium !?!
  • 7 0
 Where's my kid's balance bike?
  • 12 4
 No Evil Following? Weak
  • 5 0
 Still hasn't been reviewed.
  • 4 2
 Fail x2 @ pinkbike then! haha
  • 3 3
 Aren't Evil just vaporware for 15 yr old kids to fap over?
  • 1 2
 As opposed to all the old ass hipster trash on your profile?
  • 1 0
 What, the stuff that firstly exists, and secondly still works now / hasn't broken? FTR as you are stalking, I have modern stuff too, I'm just not a fashion victim to buys what the industry tells me to buy Smile
  • 3 1
 The Evil Following received the best reviews across the board in its category and the cost is the same or less as others in its class. You're just being a bandwagon hater.
  • 7 0
 This Trek looks familiar...
  • 4 0
 If the habit is the evolution of the Rize, then it would be the winner. The ones who've ridden a Rize they now what it is versatility. If you don't live somewhere hilly you won't understand.
  • 4 0
 Some decent bikes. But why only three nominees? And why only one DH rig??

What about the Rocky Mountain Maiden? I know it's got hellofa price tag but same goes for the Trek remedy pictured above.......

*confused*
  • 3 0
 Did you read the Maiden review? They didn't love it any more than most other DH bikes, why would it be bike of the year?
  • 3 0
 What are you doing? Are you bringing logic and common sense here? This is the pinkbike comment section-no room for that here!
  • 6 0
 Really? Yeti SB4.5 and Evil Following are way better than those two trail rigs...
  • 3 0
 YT FTW but who really cares? I love PB but you've got to remember that the Internet has become a data acquisition system and our responses to polls, Best Ofs, or anything that generates opinions, are the currency of the realm.
  • 4 0
 Worst bike of the year;

Rocky Mtn Instinct 970 msl - because I cracked the carbon frame twice

Rocky Mtn Alltitude msl - becasue anybody i know who rides one cracked the carbon also.
  • 1 0
 It's true most of Rockys bikes since the pipeline and Dh race should be on that list too.
How sweet was the rm6 warranty machine?
  • 5 0
 Wouldn't a 3 category bike be better?
DH
Enduro
XC

Makes more sense right? Probably not
  • 5 1
 The remedy rides amazing. I don't get the hate? Take one for a spin on your local trails before you get your panties in a knot.
  • 6 0
 WHAT HAPPEN TO CANFIELD?????
  • 6 0
 I couldn't care less........I LOVE my bike. That's all that matters.
  • 3 1
 I've never seen anyone riding those bikes around the shore / Squamish . That list is pinner , Chincey , XC spec euro bikes and a DH bike ? everyone sold thier DH bikes this year that I know and no one rides anymore even at Whistler lol . Lefty is automatic DQ
  • 1 1
 +1 on the auto DQ haha! Those forks are an abomination.
  • 4 2
 Trek Remedy 9.9 is EXPENSIVE however is an awesome bike. However, their 2015 Remedy 9.8 has the same chassis with lower level components for $5,500 and weighs only 26 1/2 lbs. It's a much much better deal and have already won Bike of the Year from other publications.
  • 6 1
 Kona. Process series......or evil following.... Come on..... I don't get it.
  • 2 0
 Well, I actually like the picks. I also like Boost, so shoot me. The Remedy has been on my short list for a while -- Trek has done a great job refining that bike, and right now it is near perfect. Maybe not unique or boutique, but you can't deny its level of refinement. Any bike that is just plain fun to ride deserves a spot as well, and it sounds like the Cannondale fits that bill (they could have thrown the Stache on there as a hardtail, but that would be 2 from Trek and whoah, the outrage would be just too incredible). And the YT has a lot of capability for a great price. Most of us don't have the option of lift-assisted riding on a weekly basis, so spending a ton on a DH bike doesn't make sense -- but the YT can put a lot of capability in your quiver for a relatively low investment.
  • 5 2
 Curious to know the agreement in terms of ad and stuff that have the two big americans and YT with Pinkbike. The Supreme DH v4 was pretty much one of the bikes that did the most noise in 2015. Disappointed not to see it.
  • 3 1
 @remymetailler, it's not a conspiracy, we just haven't been able to spend any time actually riding the Supreme DH V4. Plans are in the works to get aboard one in the future.
  • 1 0
 And what about the Meta V4?
  • 4 5
 Remy Metailler joins the conspiracy circle destroying Pink bikepark... I read a blog post from an ethically correct journalist where he posted a receit from Cannondale:

Review of Habit 1200$
Positive footnote Pinkbike take 500$
Deduction for delivering top build -100$
Deduction for supplying Richard Cunningham with premium beard oil -230$
Shipping back (UPS economic) 75$
Ad in the banner above 125$ per day
Positive comments from fake PB user accounts 50$ per comment (deducted after a month)
Product of the year nominee 25000$
Winner of the Product of the year 650000$ (10% discount)

I'm waiting for Jared Graves or Troy Brosnan to chime in, saying that Spec pays Pinkbike so much for advertising, that they are just showing up as ungrateful basterds - The Lawsuit is being prepared as we speak. May wait forever though... Big Grin
  • 1 1
 Shouldn't the worlds biggest bike media be testing all of the bikes before they start calling anything bike of the year?
And if that isn't possible.
Maybe give it a different title.
Like
Best bike we rode.
Calling something bike of the year without testing them all is misleading.
Besides that.
One of your choices is a lefty.
And nobody besides some Lycra wearing no mountain living roadie on dirt has your back on that one.
  • 1 0
 @mikekazimer "Bike of the year" actually is misleading. Is there a list of the bikes you have tested? (For example Remy would have known that you just haven't tested the Supreme V4, which might be the reason why it's not a nominee).
Also, it's noble of you to answer to those who complain about the list.

@ mcdog Meta V4 is a great bike, but compared to the Supreme V4 there's no comparison (Supreme innovates, plus its works and looks nice considering the weird design)

@remymetailler I hope ad money from big brands doesn't influence this award. If it does, pb is betraying the trust of thousands of passionate mtbikers, which as we all know would be the worst crime ever.
Rémy, should I question your honesty when you say that the Supreme V4 is so great?

I hope the only fact we can blame pb for is for saying "850mm bars are too narrow".
  • 2 0
 Guerrilla Gravity Megatrail is tops on my list and Dirt Rag Editors choice too! But its all subjective. Made in Colorado and you can buy them direct or via your LBS. Pretty solid pricing for made in US too and will be cheaper for 2016 by $500!
There are some seriously awesome bikes out there too from Smaller companies...Canfield, Evil, Black Market etc. Find one that fits your needs and with good customer support and values that work for you. Great to see YT on the list up there with the big dogs. $9k Trek really?? Or you could have 2 ripping bikes from rad companies like above mentioned..choices..its all good.
  • 2 0
 I've been waiting for something like the habit for a long time. . Perfect for brisbane. I still use an old rush lefty for when in back home. . It's a genuinely fun bike to ride. Yes there are a whole bunch of bikes in my stable including a v10c but its always the rush that is just fun.
  • 5 0
 what was the selection criteria again?! three bikes we like?
  • 8 0
 Cheers.....

I like this bit the best.

"Nominees will be judged primarily upon their ultimate performance, technical design aspects, component specification, and application to their category. Suggested retail pricing and perceived value will be considered, but will not be emphasized."
  • 3 0
 Which kinda contradicts the bit above it saying " In rare cases, a prototype or a limited production bicycle that is not available for public sale may be accepted for nomination without review or a first ride preview, providing that it is a visually and technically new design and that it has proven to be overwhelmingly successful in professional competition by two or more competitors. "
  • 1 0
 Any set of choices will always cause an argument, buuut, given that the criteria are:

"Nominees will be judged primarily upon their ultimate performance, technical design aspects, component specification, and application to their category. "

Leaving out the SB6 seems to me to be an anomaly.

I would be interested in hearing from @mikekazimer why it does not make the cut. I would have thought that it comes up very highly in all criteria, and perhaps top of the class in "ultimate performance". It may be out of the "dating rules" but I thought that it is a 2015 bike...
  • 1 0
 It would be great to see a Hardtail and DJ in the mix. Maybe pick one from each genre of riding have a top 5-10. I could reach a broader spectrum of riders, and would be more informative for those looking to purchase and/or learn about the advancements of the sport outside of enduro and DH
  • 3 0
 Interesting choice. If these are the top picks of all the bikes you guys have ridden this year I would love to give them a go. Merry Christmas all ????????
  • 5 0
 Insert everyone's comment about how their bike should be nominated...
  • 1 0
 I might be wrong, but what (according to the rules) was the big change that the already existing tues made it into top 3?

I guess I'm not the only one who would like to see the full list of "new" bikes where you have taken these 3 bikes out of. Perhaps we would better understand it.
  • 1 0
 I'm glad that @mikekazimer is here to shed a little light on this dark a drery.......drery......(is that a word?) .....situation.........in particularly glad that these children were here to witness that......not only was it FRONTIERE jiberish.........but clearly stated what HAD to be said.......
  • 1 0
 Just wait until the Bronson 2 has podium prominence in 16' - killer bike - but then again I'm one of those poor suckers who rides "other" bikes only to get back on it and think "why did I bother ever thinking another bike would come close" - Cue the Santa Cruz hate lobby hahaha
  • 1 0
 I do agree, the trek looks a bit oldschool. but a friend of mine has one and he´s incredibly fast on our home trails....
I am/was very lucky to ride some nice enduro bikes in the last 2 years: specialized enduro 29er, cannondale jekyll team, cube stereo in sub 25lbs and the devinci spartan as latest. now riding EVIL the following since two weeks. faster than on any of those bikes before. uphill and downhill. it is incredible. hard to describe. it does everything better than the 29er specialized but never feels to short on travel. very nice feedback. very well balanced. it is so maneuverable, you would never think its a 29er while riding. it is my biggest surprise since years. the only thing which sucks: BB is very low, even in the HIGH setting. almost 8mm lower than the spartan O_O... after weeks still hitting stones ecc on almost every uphill Smile ... hard to admit: for my skills 130+120mm on 29er is not just ok but faster!....and I think for the skills of the most of my buddies. sad this bike was obviously not ridden by the PB stuff for a long period (otherwise I bet it was here, too!).
  • 1 0
 WOW! no one here heard of pivot before? As for the habit making a "new category for trail bikes" the Mach 4 has had that category longer than the habit. I'm sure the habit is a good bike but the mach 4 is a great bike. Would also like to see evil the following vs pivot mach 429 trail shoot out.
  • 1 1
 I own a Remedy 27.5 and I think they are great bikes, but the geometry really needs an update. The seat tube is way too slack to really make the bike climb well. 67.5* on the 27.5 and 69* on the 29er really makes ascending steep switchbacks not very fun, way too wheelie-happy.
  • 1 0
 Nicolai Geometron? A genuine step outside the box in terms of design and very customer oriented in terms of spec and setup. And before anyone asks, no I do not own one (although I'd like to)!
  • 6 3
 Wow, it's like a presidential election....trying to pick the one with the least fleas.
  • 3 3
 Might not be the top contender but the giant Reign but current geometry added great value components delivered fantastic enduro and DH value to those not wanted or able to spend 9k and above on bikes. They did resonably well in wold cup races and looked good doing it.
The canondale....really? Is pinkbike getting its advice from Trump? The nominations make as much sense to me as Trumps statements.
  • 2 1
 A Reign was raced at WC?
The Habit is probably the funnest bike you have never ridden.
  • 1 0
 Obviously you haven't been subjected to the "E" trend. DH riding is not the only style that has a WC event. But if I'm not totally wrong I believe Whistler had a DH race with a several "trail" bikes and at least one rider was on a Reign.
Yes there are many bikes I have never had a chance to ride. You, have you had the chance to ride every bike offered today? Likely not. But thanks for the point
  • 1 0
 World Cup only has XC, DH and 4X events and they don't have an event at Whistler. There are numerous other leagues around the world holding events and certainly Reigns are used in both Enduro and DH races on less gnarly tracks. Sea Otter is a good example,where you can see guys racing short travel bikes in the DH competitions. But the WC DH is the elite pro level and it is rare to see any bike with less than 8" of travel raced. but i think you may see more 6" 29ers racing some of the less rough WC tracks.
  • 1 0
 www.enduroworldseries.com I stand corrected it's not a World Cup but a World Series.
There are marginals out there riding all kinds of Suspention set ups and wheel sizes.
Maybe one day we'll get some Frankenstein 29 plus DH bike ? Who knows?
I've had my share of bikes, I like them slack and rigged for the way down. The reign has its short comings but it's one hell of a bike for the value. Mind you i switched the wheels and dropped some weight here and there. I got mine down to 26lbs and it's been a blast.
Tones of great bikes to choose from these days with a confusing amount of set ups. Whatever you chose to ride there will always be someone who will have a different view and Someone who can blow by you on q hardtail no matter the trail your on.
In my neck of the woods I know people who ride all kinds of rigs, DH, trail, enduro, xc hardtails and everyone can rip it up. What matters is enjoying yourself and enjoying your ride.

My point on the Reign was that they basically populated western Canada's trail systems this summer. At least one bike shop in Squamish couldn't get enough of them in. The bikes were basically unavailable in either Alberta or BC by June. You needed to be lucky to find one. I guess riders considering price, geometry and value got what they were looking for. Summer race circuits had many and so did the resorts.

It was a surprise that it had not made on to this list. I however think there were better bikes this model, Alu or carbon appeared to be somewhat popular.
  • 1 0
 PB reviewed the 27.5 Reign in 2014, so last year is when it would get nominated.
  • 2 1
 I have seen zero of these bikes on the trails this year, or anything even remotely like them. I'll just crawl away on my 29er Carbon Hardtail XC weight weenie bike back into the shadows till next year... #southFLproblems
  • 2 1
 Davidccoleman@ I live in the same area as editor and have not seen them either so don't feel bad! Treks are none existent where I live. . . . Expectedly $9000 ones!
  • 4 1
 Seriously pb ? so much bike could be here. the Nomad? Evil? Devinci Troy and their kickass price? Canyon Strive? name it..
  • 2 0
 Pivot Mach 429 Trail. 2015 bike of the year. The bikes above were nominated because the companies paid to be nominated. It's a joke.
  • 2 1
 "It's also a good reminder that travel doesn't define a bike, and neither does its appearance. "

read, ugly and inappropriate
  • 3 0
 A better approach would be to have 3 categories: trail, xc, and dh.
  • 2 0
 .....ahhhhh, seriously? Nobody mentioned PIVOT! Is it because the 429 Trail is considered a 2016?
  • 1 0
 How much different could any of these bikes be from each other? Other than the YT is a bike a normal person could almost afford.
  • 2 2
 And the YT is the model no one would ever buy. If you're springing for CF, you'd be an idiot not to get the pro. The base Al model is the middle finger to the bike industry pricing.
  • 3 0
 I don't know, I bought the Pro and now think I'd rather have bought the Comp, just purely because its performance isn't really any worse and its DH bike destined to be smashed up, so would have saved me several hundreds of dollars (plus fork/shock servicing would have been much easier). Not that I'm unhappy with my Tues, it goes like stink and looks amazing, plus the V4L leverage ratio seems to be smooth and yet soak up all my f**k ups!
  • 5 2
 Can we have a poll to see what pb users would choose?
  • 4 0
 Based on bikes the majority of us haven't ridden? What's the point? $1000 says people are going to not vote for for the Evil Following or Trek Remedy simply because they're 29ers. I get what you're meaning but the whole thing is skewed from the get go.
  • 1 0
 That's a good point. Maybe if it was a list of bikes that have done particularly well in racing/numbers sold that we could all vote on
  • 3 0
 The remedy is super legit
  • 5 2
 Bitch, bitch, bitch. Stop the epic wining.
  • 3 1
 I'm surprised the Nicolai Geometron didn't make it. These seem to be very sick bikes too though
  • 1 0
 @mikekazimer My favourite trail/all mountain/ enduro bike is the propain tyee cf and freeride/downhill bike would have to be the propain spindrift
  • 3 1
 Wait, wait. Why isn't the bike that I personally own on the list. This is very disappointing...
  • 3 1
 This can not be right PB what about EVIL following ????? come on get your stuff together PB
  • 1 2
 YT, keep dropping prices in the industry that barely allows for bike shops to make margin already. Cannondale Habit, not a big fan on Cannondale MTB's for a long time due to the invention of bb30, the lefty, and how they chew linkage bearings at the bb. Trek wins it for me and I wont ever buy a 29" full suspension.
  • 1 0
 Remedy is lighter than the following is it not? Seems they both go up and down crazy well. The new stumpy 29 is right there too. Id opt for the lightest rig I could.
  • 1 0
 I bought an Orbea Rallon and must say its a beast of a bike, having moved from a Nomad previously, and think it should be given an honourable mention.
  • 1 0
 Let all the pro level legends, mechanics, bike designers, and marketing gurus ( IN THEIR OWN MINDS) unite!!!
  • 1 0
 If i was loaded i would give the Trek a run but since i'm not, it's YT all the way.
  • 1 1
 This YT stuff is getting my nerves.... Evrybody talks about them. I tried most of them and i don't even like them. bikes with no soul.
  • 1 0
 Ok so why did I buy the Remedy 29 9.9 , as an engineer myself it was a no brainer, backed with podium wins.
  • 6 4
 Remedy looks fun the others, no thanks
  • 3 1
 I agree with the Remedy and the Tues but why the habit?
  • 5 0
 Because it creates a category between XC and Trail, meaning it is about as playful as a bike can get before it becomes a body-jarring XC race machine. It is probably all most people will ever need. Reminded me of my Blur.
  • 1 0
 Well, BOTY should be smth which really made this year special not just same good bikes . The Following
  • 2 1
 Who on here is complaining about the consumer direct model? I suppose bike shop owners.
  • 2 0
 People with issues with their bike
  • 1 0
 I bought "consumer direct" from evil and have had the absolute best support I could ask for.
  • 3 2
 I'm bitter about the fact that a good bike costs 4 grand.
Every year the prices go up $500. All I see is a greedy industry
  • 1 0
 There should be a bike which has the power to reign on the bike of the year throne.
  • 1 0
 Should've have showcased either the Enduro, The Following or Tracer T275c. Tracer gets my vote.
  • 2 0
 No 2010 Intense Tracer (what I ride)??? Outrage!! LOL
  • 1 1
 Well there goes time from my life I'll never have back. I guess no one can handle CONSTRUCTIVE criticism on this site. No worries, this will be my last comment.
  • 2 0
 I really thought my ex would of been up there..
  • 5 4
 None of them, no question.
  • 2 0
 Foes Mixer????????
  • 1 0
 Mojo geometron ticks all the boxes for me
  • 2 0
 Tues !!!
  • 2 0
 Patrol anyone???
  • 1 1
 And the bike of the year goes to... Fill in blank. That list is whack!!!!! ....Evil Insurgent.
  • 2 1
 Hm......i hope there will be additional Nominees right?
  • 4 7
 Hey Pinkbike :
Why don't you create a people's choice bike of the year contest for readers who actually purchased new bikes for the year? Have them do a survey that rates the bike on a scale in the outcome and let the numbers speak for themselves. That would be the most objective method, wouldn't it?
  • 23 1
 But how many people are going to say they don't like a bike they purchased for themselves? As tech editors, we're in the fairly unique position to be able to extensively ride dozens of bikes each year, which is the basis for the Pinkbike Awards.
  • 1 1
 @squishybike: Because you can buy fake votes/reviews for your business online (AKA stacking the deck), I'd prefer a list that has been crafted by people who can explain why a bike is really good rather than a bunch of bike nerds creating 20 aliases each and voting for a Supercycle Hooligan. Not that it would ever happen, hmm?
  • 6 0
 Mike is exactly right. Most readers are not in any position to compare and rate bikes like this. No regular riders are ever going to throw a leg over dozens the top new bikes each year and would thus have no basis for comparison. Everyone would just vote for the bike they own. All you would get is a popularity contest.
  • 1 0
 Popular bike would seem like bike of the year.
  • 1 0
 But didn't test ride the evil following out of all the bikes I'm amazed
  • 1 0
 the idea wasn't to have users say they like their bike or not, or to vote for their bike vs another bike- but to instead create a set of review criteria for users to rate aspects of their bikes to come up with an overall review score... you know, like mtbr does. OR AT LEAST let users make requests for bikes to be reviewed... otherwise it seems like a waste of time. It takes more than your tech editors being able to extensively ride "dozens" of bikes each year for your bike of the year honour to mean anything to your readers... many of whom seem to think the Evil Following should be on your short list. Then again you're giving haters something to hate (which seems like the majority of your readers) so they're probably happy. I'm just offering ideas to help you guys avoid the backlash over this 'contest' but never mind, it sounds like you've got it dialled.
  • 3 1
 It's obvious that the Pinkbike Awards are based on how much advertising they do with the website , very sad!!!!! Indeed!!!!
  • 1 0
 Hey @mikekazimer, you should use your magic and remove the neg props from this one so it is not hidden because your explanation to this is pretty much a spot on refute to all the harsh criticism.
  • 1 0
 Thats if no more than 3 bikes
  • 4 3
 1. YT capra (first year in the USA)
2. Evil Following
3. Evil Insurgent
  • 1 0
 Just pick "Saving Money" to send a message
  • 1 0
 Bronson is not chopped liver
  • 1 0
 Transition Scout. Hands down.
  • 1 0
 Habit? What about the rocky thunderbolt?
  • 1 1
 OK, so we're up to choose wether we like 27.5'' and 120mm travel, 140mm travel or 208mm travel. This makes sence.... NOT!
  • 1 0
 Not a single mention of Santa Cruz, Specialised or Transition.......
  • 1 0
 Those 5 bikes, I would think they're all good, one way or another...
  • 2 1
 Following??
  • 2 1
 boooring
  • 1 0
 definitely the tues
  • 1 0
 YT Tues CF Comp
  • 1 0
 TAXI !!!
  • 1 1
 Megatrail, Following, Nicolai GeoMetron,
  • 1 0
 Agree that the GeoMetron should be in there.
  • 2 1
 will they post 2nd part?
  • 6 7
 And the winner is................ The companies who offer us the most money
  • 1 0
 No M16? Bah!
  • 2 0
 Read the review in Decline...
  • 1 2
 If I had to pick a bike that didn't have 26 inch wheels. YT Tues all day every day
  • 2 1
 None..
  • 1 4
 You've voted a bike with a lefty in the running for bike of the year?
How about surveying how many of those blew up for their sponsored racers.
Oh that's right. You'd get lied to anyway.

You guys are boneheads
  • 1 2
 What happened to the evil? Pinkbike forreal sell them self to the big companies
  • 1 0
 Let the moaning begin.
  • 1 1
 Of these 3, it's got to be the Tues.
  • 1 1
 cannondale wins, because it is different
  • 4 5
 Where are the good bikes, what a bummer
  • 3 6
 Trek is clearly an important financial support for Pinkbike so this result is normal. But I follow the trend, the choices are so timorous..
  • 3 0
 I see plenty of YT adds on Pinkbike too.
  • 4 2
 So yes, nominees reflect the other side of the coin of free websites specialized in biking. They have to thank advertisers.
  • 1 1
 V10!
  • 1 1
 just .... LOL
  • 1 1
 Wait...... What?
  • 1 1
 None of the above ...
  • 2 3
 I disagree on the 29 inch remedy I would rather have the 27.5
  • 1 0
 I thought the same thing until I rode them both (at least for the selected model here) the difference in the builds resulted in a huge difference in ride quality. Sram 1x11, and pike on the 29er vs shimano 2x10 and fox float fork on 27.5. I rode the 9.8s back to back and found the 29er to feel smoother, manual better and grip corners better while still being really comfortable in the air
  • 1 2
 Fvck this list..no fat bike, no care.
  • 4 6
 Lol, I really am giving up on pinkbike...
  • 6 5
 please do, you wont be missed. what wrong with these picks?
  • 5 7
 WHO PAID YOU TO CHOOSE THESE BIKES?
  • 8 10
 top three PB Sponsors?
  • 6 9
 Love how the author is going down the list neg repping everyone who doesnt sack ride his choices
  • 2 0
 Back that up with proof and you'll have a legion of followers. Myself, I won't hold my breath waiting for it.
  • 2 1
 or they are awesome preforming bikes. what would have chosen instead? @owlie
  • 1 0
 Maybe the strive, specialized 6fattie, I dunno, But if you look at the list of advertisers on the PB homepage, Trek is listed first. Not even alphabetical
  • 3 6
 wtf is this crap LOL cannondale?! seriously?! 29er?!? yt!?!?
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