Video: Welcome to the 2022 Enduro Bike Field Test

Aug 18, 2022
by Mike Levy  


WELCOME TO THE 2022 PINKBIKE
ENDURO BIKE FIELD TEST
7 New Enduro Bikes



Words by Mike Levy, photography by Dave Trumpore

We've done a lot of Field Tests by this point, and while all of them are interesting in their own way, from value performance to short-travel trail bikes, it's the enduro edition that usually garners the most interest. That makes all the sense in the world when you consider how capable and well-rounded these long-travel bikes have become, but also because it's often where we see some exciting out-of-the-box thinking. Sure, they need to descend well, of course, but as our test fleet proves, there are a whole bunch of different ways to get that job done.

This time around we've got seven of the latest and most interesting examples, from ultra-rare steel that's welded in the US to all the carbon fiber to an aluminum bike that punches well above its price tag.


Enduro bike Field Test photo by Dave Trumpore
Matt Beer sailing past the landing on Transition's new Patrol Carbon.


7 Enduro Bikes

While the short-travel and value-minded Field Tests we do are great and all, can we agree that it's the enduro bike episodes that are the most interesting? Modern enduro bikes are wildly capable machines that seem too long, too slack, and too soft to ever impress us on a climb but, as these seven examples showed us, that's far from the case. Instead, most offer impressively well-rounded performance that won't drain your soul over a 4,000ft climb but also all the downhill performance you could ever ask for on the way back down.

But each of these seven bikes does that a little differently, from the terrain-leveling Contra to the do-it-all La Sal Peak.

Enduro bike Field Test
Contra MC
• Travel: 164mm rear, 170mm front
• 29" wheels
• 63.5° head-tube angle
• 78° seat-tube angle
• Reach: 480mm (large)
• Weight: 37.2 lb / 16.8 kg
• $4,500 USD (frame, EXT shock)

Enduro bike Field Test
Deviate Claymore
• Travel: 165mm rear, 170mm front
• 29" wheels
• 64.3° head-tube angle
• 78° seat-tube angle
• Reach: 490mm (large)
• Weight: 34.7 lb / 15.7 kg
• $3,822 USD (Frame, Fox shock)


Enduro bike Field Test
Intense Tracer
• Travel: 170mm rear, 170mm front
• 29" front, 27.5" rear
• 64° head-tube angle
• 77.4° seat-tube angle
• Reach: 475mm (large)
• Weight: 35.7 lb / 16.2 kg
• $7,199 USD

Enduro bike Field Test
Commencal Meta SX
• Travel: 160mm rear, 170mm front
• 29" front, 27.5" rear
• 63.6° head-tube angle
• 78.1° seat-tube angle
• Reach: 481mm (large)
• Weight: 35.9 lb / 16.2 kg
• $5,800 USD


Enduro bike Field Test
Transition Patrol Carbon
• Travel: 160mm rear, 160mm front
• 29" front, 27.5" rear
• 63° head-tube angle
• 77.6° seat-tube angle
• Reach: 475mm (large)
• Weight: 33.6 lb / 15.2 kg
• $6,599 USD

Enduro bike Field Test
Fezzari La Sal Peak
• Travel: 170mm rear, 170mm front
• 29" wheels
• 64° head-tube angle
• 77.5° seat-tube angle
• Reach: 485mm (large)
• Weight: 34.9 lb / 15.8 kg
• $8,200 USD


Enduro bike Field Test
Santa Cruz Megatower
• Travel: 165mm rear, 170mm front
• 29" wheels
• 63.5° head-tube angle
• 77.5° seat-tube angle
• Reach: 472mm (large)
• Weight: 34 lb / 15.4 kg
• $11,199 USD



How Do We Choose the Bikes?

Unlike some of our other Field Tests where the categories can be a bit hazy, it's pretty straightforward when it comes to the criteria for this round: they just need to be enduro bikes. But beyond that, we always want to be testing the newest and most interesting machines, and I think that Kazimer has done a good job on that front.

The new Megatower, Meta SX, Fezzari, and Patrol Carbon are safe bets if you're looking for a new bike that's sure to check all the enduro boxes, but what if you want something a bit more exotic and a lot less common?


Enduro bike Field Test photo by Dave Trumpore
The Contra MC is manufactured in Santa Cruz, California.
Enduro bike Field Test photo by Dave Trumpore
Say what you want about idlers, this thing is gorgeous.

Enduro bike Field Test photo by Dave Trumpore
The high-pivot Deviate Claymore uses a nearly hidden linkage to compress a Fox shock.
Enduro bike Field Test photo by Dave Trumpore
Intense's new Tracer gets a bottom-loading snack box.


Intense's very red Tracer might be just the ticket, while Contra's wild-looking MC, a steel virtual high-pivot bike with all the chain and the best rootbeer paint job ever, is sure to turn some heads. And if you want your high-pivot idler bike in carbon fiber, we've also got the new Deviate Claymore to compare to the US-made Contra; which one would you choose?

Yes, these bikes are really expensive, but that's why we also do our Value Bike Field Tests that see us focus on bang for your buck.


Enduro bike Field Test photo by Dave Trumpore
Alicia dropping in on the Commencal Meta SX, the only aluminum bike in this Field Test.


How'd We Test the Bikes?

I bet you already know how these Field Tests go by now: laps, laps, and more back-to-back laps on our test bikes. Matt Beer, Alicia Leggett, and Mike Kazimer did exactly that for two weeks in Bellingham, interrupted only by burritos and swapping bikes to go do some more laps. Unlike our standard long-form written reviews, Field Tests are all about comparing the bikes to each other on the same terrain and trails, on the same day, and in the same conditions.

Staying on the 'same' theme, all of the bikes have been fitted with matching Continental Kryptotal tires front and back so that none are at an advantage just because it comes with stickier rubber. This way, we're thinking about handling and suspension performance rather than worrying about how a tire we don't have confidence in will handle that nasty section of wet off-camber roots.


Enduro bike Field Test photo by Dave Trumpore
The new Claymore (and Kazimer) in the wild.

Enduro bike Field Test photo by Dave Trumpore
If you expected the Contra to climb poorly, you're wrong.
Enduro bike Field Test photo by Dave Trumpore
Meta SX or moto? Alicia popping out of another wet corner.


And speaking of roots, big bikes deserve big terrain and that's exactly what they saw while being tested in Bellingham, Washington. While there was definitely some climbing to do, our focus was to point these bikes down terrain worthy of their suspension and geometry, so they saw plenty of steep lines, rough trails, and questionable decisions.

Enduro bikes are (mostly) designed for enduro racing, and even if the large majority of them never see a start line we still wanted to know which of our seven test rigs was the quickest when the clock was running. I'll always put more weight on subjective feedback if I'm honest, but a bike that feels fast isn't always fast, which is why we end up timing a whole bunch of our riding as well.


Enduro bike Field Test photo by Dave Trumpore
The slippery conditions didn't seem to bother Matt or the Patrol Carbon.


Impossible Climb, (No) Efficiency Test, & Huck to Flat

Let's be honest: we're all here to watch the Huck to Flat video. Sadly, you'll have to wait until we get through all the reviews to see Matt Beer bottom-out all these bikes in mega-slow-mo on a pancake-flat landing. In the meantime, we skipped the Efficiency Test this time around due to time constraints, and while I assume a lot of people will be sad to not have a riveting ten-minute video about pedaling efficiency to watch, you'll still get to see how these enduro machines fared on a wet and tricky Impossible Climb.

There are also the roundtable videos, of course, that see Kazimer, Matt, and Alicia answer some tough questions about which bikes they liked the most and which ones they liked the least.


Enduro bike Field Test photo by Dave Trumpore
Jurassic Park or the PNW?


Who Tested the Bikes?

Mike Kazimer, Alicia Leggett, and Matt Beer spent two weeks testing our seven enduro bikes in ideal PNW conditions: rain, mud, and plenty of wet rocks and roots to keep everyone on their toes. As always, testing was spread between all three of them so that we have different perspectives on how the bikes performed.

And while there's definitely some agreement about many things, the team also has differing takes on what they're looking for from an enduro bike and why (or why not) some make more sense than others for how they ride.

photo
Matt Beer
Height: 5'10" / 178 cm
Weight: 170 lb / 77 kg
Notes: Tech editor, allergic to everything

photo
Mike Kazimer
Height: 5'11" / 180cm
Weight: 160 lbs / 72.6 kg
Notes: Managing tech editor, noted alien skeptic
photo
Alicia Leggett
Height: 5'10" / 178 cm
Weight: 148 lb / 67 kg
Notes: News / tech / whatever editor

photo
Continental Kryptotal tires front and back on all the bikes.
Enduro bike Field Test photo by Dave Trumpore
Kryptotal tracks.

Enduro bike Field Test photo by Dave Trumpore
If you live in the PNW, you probably own some pretty good wet weather gear.
Enduro bike Field Test photo by Dave Trumpore
They're just waiting to grab your front tire.


While this may come as a surprise to you, the truth is that I don't know how to use a video camera or iMovie. Thankfully, Satchel Cronk, Max Baron, Lear Miller, and Dave Trumpore not only know how to do that stuff, they know how to do it really well because we wouldn't have any of these videos or photos without them working roughly ten-times as hard as the people in front of the camera.

A Field Test series takes two to three weeks to film, but that's only half the battle - the videos still need to be edited, including removing all the gaffs and wrong things that I said, which takes weeks of work in a small dungeon lit by a single lightbulb at PB HQ.

Which bikes are you most interested in?




The 2022 Enduro Bike Field Test was made possible thanks to Rapha and POC, and thanks to Continental for supplying control tires for all the bikes.




Author Info:
mikelevy avatar

Member since Oct 18, 2005
2,032 articles

522 Comments
  • 233 0
 That Contra MC needs to be ridden with a top hat and stem punk goggles.
  • 17 1
 Does it also shudder with each pedal stroke?
  • 42 0
 And you can only light your pipe with matches
  • 64 0
 If you told me it had a downtube box to hold coal for the steam engine, I’d believe it

What a fun looking bike!
  • 7 1
 stE-bike.
  • 38 1
 And it needs to be ridden on a trail that goes like - up-up-down-down-left-right-left-right, b...a...?
  • 9 0
 @robomatic, that game was the best.
  • 15 1
 @mikekazimer: Hey where's the Canfield Lithium?
  • 6 1
 Canfield Balance or Lithium!@EvoRidge:
  • 8 1
 @Uriah: Another person interested in the Lithium! Just so I can get irrationally angry at anything negative they say!

I do wish PB would give Canfield, Banshee, and Knolly some more ink in these reviews. I feel like they either pick very mainstream brands, or some boutique manufacturer who is working out of a garage in Lichtenstein.
  • 2 0
 Hello, Mister George?
How much you pay for the new bike?
10,000 dollars?
Is too much
It no good.
  • 2 0
 @TheRamma: And another vote for the Lithiummmmmm!! 430 chainstays on a big big with CBF that costs half of these other bikes.... yes please I wanna know how it stacks up!
  • 1 0
 @COmoose: Right? I know the standard line is that "they test what they can get," but I called Canfield and had a Lithium to do a free test ride on the next day.
  • 2 0
 Welds on that thing look horrid !
  • 137 4
 the santa cruz is twice as much as the commencal, but guaranteed its not twice as good to ride it
  • 18 49
flag HeatedRotor FL (Aug 18, 2022 at 10:18) (Below Threshold)
 IMO(before someone gets hurt feels) except you can bet the Santa cruz has actually had its "front centre(center) " looked at, Commencal have a weird issue with just slapping all the other numbers in and then the FC and WB get huge.
  • 8 4
 Probably not even half
  • 51 2
 Still kinda surprised at the Commencal pricing. Almost $6k for a gx build on an aluminum frame from a DTC company?
  • 16 1
 @wilsonians: I bought a GX (X01 rear der) build Meta AM Race in 2017 that was over $5k CAD. That was five years ago, and given how much prices have gone up in bike gear overall, I don't think that's really that crazy.
  • 7 1
 @HeatedRotor: They corrected that AM issue with the SX model
  • 29 26
 The bike shop support thing makes a bike like the santa cruz much more appealing. Having just been burned by a piece of proprietary shock hardware coming out on my DTC bike from Germany, and the replacement getting stuck in customs over a month ago (still stuck currently), the santa cruz might not be twice as good, but it will be much more serviceable which to some is worth the premium. I'm a little biased though, as i just picked up a new megatower frame to swap the components to from my "out of service" frame.
  • 8 0
 @HeatedRotor: They made the CS longer on the newer Meta SX specifically for that reason....... so you bet wrong.
  • 3 6
 @plustiresaintdead: but they didnt "fix it" its still huge in WB.
  • 2 5
 @SickEdit: but they didnt, its still huge in WB.
  • 14 1
 IMO commencal's frames are not that great. Their upside was price and that's why I bought them. Now their price isn't that great either.
  • 12 4
 Don’t get me wrong, I’m not a fan of them, but: At least with the Santa Cruz you know the frame is going to last longer than 6 months. The same can’t always be said about Commencal.
  • 22 1
 @DCF: Who remembers the Commencal e-bike from an earlier Field Test that ate seat posts because the inner bore of the seat tube was so rough and almost unfinished?
  • 1 1
 I would never bet as low as twice as good.
  • 15 4
 @InstantBreakfast: Sadly, shop support ain't what it used to be. Specialized is being stingy, Giant is doing all their valid warranties as "crash replacements" making you ineligible if you crack another frame (and you will).

I love my local shops, but bike companies are cutting them off at the knees with the lack of warranty support.
  • 6 0
 @brightfff: that's about $3800 usd so bumping to $5800 is a 53% increase....
  • 14 0
 @InstantBreakfast: Bingo. And that's why when I order any bike frame, I always order a spare derailleur hangar, shock hardware and any small proprietary bits I can get my hands on. But honestly, I think any of the DTC bikes should automatically come with extra hardware!!
  • 2 0
 @wyorider: that was my experience with Kona through my LBS. Hard to stick with a brand when they won't even get you a new front triangle as a crash replacement.
  • 4 0
 @wyorider: totally agree! More and more companies going to lifetime warranties as a marketing gimmick and reason to charge and extra $800-$1K. Almost no one is getting full warranty, just ‘crash replacements’. I would gladly take a crash replacement only clause to get $1K off the purchase of a new bike because chances are that’s all you’re going to get anyway.
  • 11 0
 @wilsonians: the DTC brands value have fallen off a cliff - still cheaper, but should be 30% cheaper by chopping out the dealer margin. It's not what it once was - YT and Commencal are massive marketing machines.
  • 3 0
 @shredddr: $3999 for Olhins, gx and Renthal kit is still a good buy from yt. But for the most part I agree.
  • 2 2
 I built a Meta AM in 2021 for less than $6k with XTR, Zeb Ultimate, Kitsuma Air, Hope/DT wheels, Hayes Dominions, and Chromag/Garbaruk components. No dropper. Its 35lbs. There's still deals out there.

The prices on that Commencal are "currently" a bunch off. The Ohlins/full XT one on the European website is 4800 Euro without VAT. They'll ship it to you for like $250. The USD to EUR conversion is 1.01 right now. For like $5100 you can get the best one they sell to your door. Learn how to play exchange rate disparities people. Even ordering from the US site... the full Fox Factory/XT one AND the Ohlins/XT one are $6000.
  • 10 4
 @wyorider:
I mean , I cracked my v10 iscg tab because I suck and Santa Cruz didn’t even question it and replaced the front triangle. Call me a fanboy , I’m good with that
  • 3 2
 @plustiresaintdead: they made the CS longer but took it from the reach... so the wheelbase is still out of control for the kinda bike they are trying to sell.

all they had to do was drop the reach and go 435 ish with the chainstay's. making sure they decrease the front centre to re-weight the front wheel(if they intend on keeping the slack as HTA)

The SX still feels weird to ride, I own both the AM and SX framesets in large. I always wanted a 475/480 reach AM.

The still SX has the same feeling you get with the AM which is similar to the way the Sentinel rides, you need to sit on the bar to get any proper grip when hauling ass on anything thats not double black
  • 2 0
 @HeatedRotor: I will say that my supreme sx frame was advertised having a 65* HTA but actually measured 63*.Built it With a fork that had almost the same a2c and all.

Saved me the cost of buying a custom headset LoL
  • 8 2
 What baffles me most about SC pricing is even at a crazy frame only price of £3700 or $4249 when you add up the parts cost on the high end builds they aren't much cheaper than just buying all the parts and thats at full RRP, then factor in most parts are available cheaper than RRP online and you can custom build the exact spec you want rather than predefined, also not having to buy all the fancy parts just becuase you want one of the fancy parts, it will end up cheaper and a bike you like more, SC full builds (and lots of other brands for that matter) should be way more competitive considering the bulk buy component discounts they will be getting.
  • 10 0
 @maglor: SC know their market and they're not afraid to gouge it.
  • 2 0
 @shredddr: There's still very good value at some d2c brands. Look at the new Canyon Torque for example. 2.700€ for the entry-level model. A comparable bike from most traditional store-bought brands would cost around 4.000€ these days.
  • 2 11
flag CM999 (Aug 19, 2022 at 2:01) (Below Threshold)
 Got to keep the advertisers happy.
  • 9 1
 @CM999: Nah, you are wrong.
  • 3 0
 Agreed ibis ripmo af is available for way less@wilsonians:
  • 2 2
 Prolly not but the frame quantity is 10 times as much.
  • 5 1
 @maglor: and that tells you that the bike industry just tries to milk us. Prices are pathetic. Imaging the new pricing models with electronic suspension. Hahahaha. You can buy a f*cking triumph scrambler 1200 for that money.
  • 3 1
 @Here: you can see it’s the rich folk they are milking too, clearly a conscious decision they can afford it so let’s go milking, they make the top end excessively expensive and find ways to make it more so with electric and carbon everything but if you do the same parts only cost on a lower or mid spec bike it’s a lot harder to beat the full builds (although there is no frame only on SC cheaper C carbon frame, just the fancy CC) so they know they can’t get away with it as much at the lower end where price is a big consideration for people, I know less quantity makes the fancy specs cost more too but it’s the same when you’re buying the parts separate so no excuses.
  • 1 0
 @maglor: I'm a little disappointed with some of their full specs but I've never been let down by the feel or performance of a Santa Cruz. Combined with the par excellence service and warranty it's not a huge concession from my perspective, to have something I'm fully satisfied with in feel, performance, aesthetics, and the knowledge that they have my back if something unexpected happens.
  • 3 0
 @Kabrex: they still have your back if you buy a frame only tho.
  • 1 0
 @wilsonians: Commencal bikes aren’t good value anymore. The cheapest version of the Meta SX is 3.400€. That’s for an alloy-frame bike with low-end components from a D2C brand.
  • 2 0
 @Muscovir: Got to fund all those race teams somehow
  • 1 0
 @maglor: I agree, I'm a frame only guy in general -- when it's possible. Pretty tough these last few years though, and my SC dealer told me straight up there was no chance when I inquired about a Megatower V2 frame.
  • 1 0
 @Kabrex: The cynic in me suspects your dealer doesnt make much mark up on a frame only, and if it truly is an issue getting frames but not full bikes then that's just poor show from SC.
  • 112 8
 Huge range in prices. Hoping one of the less expensive bikes edges out the Megatower for the win.
  • 14 21
flag topherdagopher FL (Aug 18, 2022 at 11:14) (Below Threshold)
 Seems weird and a bit disingenuous to give frameset prices for some bikes and full build price for others. Not really a meaningful metric unless they are all for a full build. The La Sal for instance is 3800 for frameset+fork (factory x2/3Cool
  • 48 1
 @topherdagopher, in the cases where only the frame price is listed it's because the company doesn't offer full builds. If you purchased all the parts for the Contra at full price it would retail for somewhere around $11,300 USD.
  • 94 0
 @mikekazimer: maybe it would be worth adding an "as tested" price in this situation.
  • 5 0
 @thisc*nt: agreed with this. The santa cruz is obviously ridiculously priced but frame only numbers didn't don't help that much.
  • 4 5
 @thisc*nt: if ya have to ask the price you can’t afford it
  • 30 0
 @thisc*nt: Even the "as tested" line is tricky because the retail prices of the parts would make some of the bikes much more expensive than if the parts were purchased by the manufacturer. But yes, I totally agree that it can look a little weird... not disingenuous, however, as that's lying.
  • 28 1
 @mikelevy: and retail prices of the parts would make the Megatower much cheaper.........
  • 8 1
 @mikelevy: maybe a frame only cost as well for the bikes that did come with a full build. This gives an easy and fair point of comparison.
  • 5 0
 @mknott9: Why include prices in the specs at all if that's your point of view?

Having to ask the price or not is irrelevant if someone is trying to do a complete comparison between different bikes.
  • 2 7
flag mknott9 (Aug 18, 2022 at 15:20) (Below Threshold)
 @thisc*nt: because you know if it’s an sc or transition carbon spaceship it’s going to be close to or over five figures for the complete build. If you’re ready to spend that much for a bike you’re not going to care if it’s 9800 or 11k and price is really irrelevant at that level
  • 2 0
 @mikekazimer: ah that makes sense. Thanks for clarifying.
  • 5 0
 @mknott9: completely disagree. I'm absolutely fine if you choose to go through life never looking at a price tag. That doesn't make price irrelevant to everyone.
  • 1 0
 @mikekazimer: Is that a Lake Whatcom photo shoot fror the steeds? Looks like Sudden Valley near the dog park.
  • 2 0
 Didn't one of the Mikes already say that the Megatower is meh in the recent Nomad review?
  • 1 1
 @mikekazimer: That's a little disingenous; no one (should) buy a complete expecting to pay frame plus retail parts prices.
  • 1 0
 @honourablegeorge: Best comment I've read in a while. Kudo.
  • 1 0
 Which less expensive bike? I know bike prices are going crazy atm but wow
  • 3 1
 Yeah... I really wish they would finally start enforcing the $6k rule that Brian Park promised two years ago, to somewhat level the playing field.

Or at the very least get to some level of parity. Either with all the bikes costing the same (so that value can be compared) or with all the bikes being equipped with the same parts (to purely compare frame design, geometry and suspension performance).
  • 1 1
 There are only so many bikes they can test, I’m happy with the current set up/range; but it would be nice to have more comments on a) pricing and b) opinions on the other spec levels in the range
  • 1 0
 @mikelevy: In the Uk it is cheaper to buy a SC frame only and build it to the same spec as the full bikes than to buy the full bike from the manufacturer
  • 2 0
 @CM999: same here. My buddy and I just specc’ed out a full build for him
  • 87 0
 I still wish there was a "control" group. One or two favorites from previous years tests. A Specialized Enduro and a Norco Range, maybe. Are the bikes in this test better? Or are they just newer?
  • 53 80
flag William42 (Aug 18, 2022 at 10:43) (Below Threshold)
 Pinkbike primarily an advertising agency. Their job is to get you pumped on new bikes. Their job is to get you to look at bikes through the lens of "which new bike should I buy? What is the best currently out there?" not "what cool new features are out there? Is this years crop of bikes better than last years, or should I hang on to my old bike?" And you have a pretty good idea of where they'll land on the answer to that question before they even ask it, if they ever do for some reason. A media company like Pinkbike that asks that question and answers honestly this year, won't be around next year.

Which is fine. They need income from somewhere, and god knows most of the people on this website are about as likely to pay for content as they are likely to shoot themselves in the kneecap on purpose.

Look for honesty in the margins, and look for entertainment in the article.
  • 84 2
 @toast2266, we've included the Enduro previously, and it gets discussed again in the Roundtable video this time around.

@William42, that's one way to look at it, or the less jaded way would be to consider that we're reviewing new bikes so that potential buyers have an idea of the pros / cons before shelling out their hard-earned dollars.

Are this year's bikes drastically better than those from last year or the year before? In some cases, yes, but in other instances it's more of an incremental change. That's why we have comparison sections in our reviews, and try to mention what changes have made a noticeable difference.
  • 38 0
 @William42: Well you are kind of making a fool of yourself, as Pinkbike has done exactly what toast2266 is asking for in the last enduro bike field test. They compared them to a specialized enduro and Matt Beer actually said that he would prefer the specialized enduro over all the new bikes.
  • 5 1
 @mikekazimer: Awesome. Interested to hear the discussion about the Enduro.
  • 37 1
 @William42: that’s an interesting take on what a “mountain bike news” site is ought to publish. On an unrelated note, does anyone know what’s new about the 1989 Toyota Celica? I’m not seeing anything about it on the Motor Trend homepage at the moment.
  • 3 0
 I loved my 2020 Enduro, definitely the best big bike I’ve ever ridden. Felt familiar from day one, fast as F, monster truck capable, and playful enough to ride on trails with my kids.
  • 4 0
 Right? Interesting choice of bikes. While I like to hear about some of these bikes that are talked about less often, I’d also like to hear how they compare to the more common bikes in that category - trek slash, specialized enduro, norco, Rocky Mountain Altitude, etc.
  • 3 5
 @William42: kinda like there is always a Transition in the review too. . . bro-love
  • 8 0
 @Hayek: I can tell you all about my 1978 Toyota Cressida. . .
  • 6 0
 I wish they just tested all the bikes I was considering
  • 2 0
 @Spencermon: but is it jdm
  • 8 29
flag HendersonMike (Aug 18, 2022 at 15:15) (Below Threshold)
 @William42:
Don't know how you can get so many down votes for just speaking the 100% TRUTH! I love it when I have to click "show comment" to see a comment that has so many down votes, you better believe I am going to click on that! HAHAHAHA.

I am guessing everyone that DOWN VOTED YOU wither works for Pinkbike, or they work for the Bicycle Industry, or they are just plain BLIND FANBOIS.

None of us should blame Pinkbike for being an Advertising Agency, they set up shop to make money, and NOT to give it away. ALL OF us work and are in business to make money.

Since none of us pay for all the great content that Pinkbike provides, we should be grateful for Pinkbike. Pinkbike needs to do and say whatever so they can get bigger paychecks, because they too need lavish vacations and Ferraris.

I will say, to me Pinkbike does provide a lot more useful information than they do SALES PITCH. Also most of the time, the stuff they promote is worth at the very least looking into. Pinkbike is my 1 stop shop source for everything Mountain Bike Related.
  • 62 1
 @HendersonMike: ah yes, those lavish vacations and Ferraris
  • 2 3
 Ah, they know the Specialized Enduro or RM Altitude would still squash the field. Its just giving smaller companies a chance at the prize.
  • 4 2
 @Spencermon: You only shoot on film and mostly ride single speed. Of course you have a 78 Cressida. Nice work on the La Sal by the way. Excited to see how it does.
  • 1 7
flag Ispepsi (Aug 18, 2022 at 19:54) (Below Threshold)
 @alicialeggett: could use a Sugarmumma... .
  • 4 0
 Looking forward to see how the Patrol compares to the Spire.
  • 1 0
 very good point, why not run previous winners in the test just to pitch them against the new bikes. brands would shat the pants thinking they may lose to a previous model
  • 1 1
 @mikekazimer: But we already know the mega tower is the same as the old one. You have already said as much in the PB review so why test it again
  • 2 0
 @Hayek: Thanks, I'm looking forward to this test as well. That Contra is something beautiful though. I'd love one of those.
  • 1 0
 @Chondog94: it's sitting in my driveway with the carb removed about to get a new head gasket.
  • 2 0
 @stubestrong: We talk about the Spec Enduro in basically every roundtable review video at the end of all of these Field Tests. As we've said before, we don't have unlimited time to do these and if we're going to add another bike, it's going to be a new one for us to test not one we've reviewed already.
  • 1 0
 @wda1wustl: Loved my 2020 Enduro right up until the bone-headed derailleur hanger design ate my seat stay. Made me sceptical to carbon on the whole and went back to alu.
  • 81 11
 Love the Field Tests, but would LOVE to see some proper clyde representation. There are no shortage of us 200lb+ folks who ride (and ride pretty hard). How a bike handles/feels doesn't mean a whole lot when the guy testing it is 50-100lbs lighter than us big guys. I feel like there is a lot of guesswork that goes into figuring out what works for us larger folks.

Honestly, it would be awesome to see on so many product tests. How does an air or coil shock hold up when you're pushing the PSI limits or running the max spring weight? How do those side lugs hold up to hard cornering when you're 230lbs? Will those tires still provide some grip on that rock slab when the PSI is bumped up? Frames X, Y, and Z might be offered in XXL, but do they retain the same kind of stiffness as the wheelbase gets longer? Those carbon bars might be too stiff for the 160lb rider, but what about the 240lb rider?

Obviously all testing is subjective, but it would be cool to see a bit more representation for the big dudes.
  • 16 2
 Same man, pushing 250lbs and would love to see what people are running and how the bike handles thicc boys.
  • 22 2
 I agree completely. Ryan Palmer was briefly on board and I was pumped bc he was about my weight (190-200lbs). It doesn't make the perspectives of lighter riders invalid, but if a 150lb rider tells me a 38lb enduro bike feels heavy and sluggish, I feel like I would need to take that with a bit of a grain of salt. I am riding a 39lb Large Meta SX that people on the internet told me would be too big, long and heavy, and guess what, it feels perfect. The bike loves to be ridden hard and comes to life when you start pushing into it, and is super stable, but I am still large enough to be able to bunny hop easily, throw 180's etc. I don't know if I would feel the same way about it if I was 150lbs. Also, because I am in that 190-200lbs range, I had a hard time getting the bike setup based on what others said worked for them. The bike was blowing through its travel and bottoming out all over the place, until I realized I needed a lot more pressure and a lot more bottom out tokens. Meanwhile lighter riders said no tokens worked best. Having a reviewer in that heavier weight category would definitely be useful for me, and I'm sure many others as they try to figure out what bike suits them best.
  • 3 2
 @misteraustin: id like to hear more about suspension settings and whether these expensive carbon bits and frames could take my body weight.
  • 6 0
 I think the trouble is that you'd basically have to do a whole different round of field testing. The advantage of having everyone the same size is that they can do the switch bikes between each other each lap thing without different much/any change to the set up. For big guys to be properly represented you need either a second set of frames (ideally XLs esp if the CS lengths stay the same and so the feel might be different), or at least the pressures would need to be changed substantially if the riders were 5'10"-5'11" but much heavier.

I do think it would be a really fun feature to find some bigger testers and choose a couple of bikes that seem like they would be most susceptible to differences across rider size (frames particularly stiff/flexy, heavy, or with notably different frontend to backend ratios between sizes).
  • 6 0
 It's definitely not a coincidence that all the PB testers are similar in height and weight as it makes testing multiple bikes with multiple people way more simple and practical. A few tweaks and the next rider is off.
  • 3 0
 @MarcusBrody: I mean certainly you'd need to change tire pressures and shock/fork pressures, but I'd expect the testers are doing this already, if they want the bike to feel the way they want it to. A 5' 11" (180cm) rider who is 210lbs thicc and a 6 foot (183cm) rider who is 160 lbs should both be riding a size large, but may have different perspectives. It seems like it would be perfectly feasible, and worked fine when they had Palmer in the mix. (Bring back Palmer @RobinThurston)
  • 30 14
 You should start fattybike.com
  • 2 0
 @MarcusBrody: I think we're all aware that it's easier to test the same size bike with a few tweaks when all the riders are relatively similar.

Even if it's not a bunch of different frames, I think it would be cool to have a feature where one big dude does a long term test and swaps a bunch of different parts (shocks, forks, bars, wheels, tires, etc) to see how they hold up and perform under a larger rider.
  • 28 2
 @unrooted: PlumpBike
  • 19 8
 @unrooted: There is a special place in hell for people that make fun of heavy people who are exercising. Same crap happens in gyms.
  • 4 1
 I know one of the main guys that helped design the Fezzari La Sal is 6’4”, 260lbs, if that does anything by for you. Fezzari will help tube the shock for you at that weight too. Where the bike is progressive it actually can benefit from a smaller negative air can to bring down the positive air pressures. Fezzari can help tube that for bigger riders.
  • 3 0
 could be just like moto- X with a 250 and a 500 class only in lbs Wink
@unrooted:
  • 5 0
 You're looking for the new Canfield One.2. Full 29", can go 203mm or 190mm rear travel. Aluminum. Can buy frame only if you want. Big meaty bike built with a steep seat tube for dropper compadability. That's the heavy weight guys 'long travel enduro bike'

peace
  • 8 4
 @carters75: So heaven is full of fit fatties???
  • 3 0
 230-240lbs here, and definitely not gentle or "smooth" in my riding. I ride a lot of bikes an almost across the board: frames arock, suspension can be dialed up, components are hit & miss and stock wheels WILL fail...
  • 1 0
 @thisc*nt: I've always been able to find bikes weaknesses. I've finally realized as a big, smash monkey I need the best suspension and progressive kinematics, everything else feels loose and sloppy. Things have gotten better for us gorillas but suspension tunes haven't gotten there yet
  • 1 0
 Just get Matt and Kaz a hundred pounds worth or ankle/wrist weights and a weighted vest. Problem solved
  • 5 1
 @mildsauce91: ChonkBike?
  • 2 1
 Word up. 200+ Add 10lbs for gear plus, .5 L water, 80 F, Cush core and no liaison shuttle …. Whole different test.
  • 3 2
 Be nice to know how these bikes ride with a fully grown male rider for sure.
  • 2 4
 @tiffe: Idk. I grew up roofing and the bigger guys were always the biggest wimps and complainers. Not very manly at all.
  • 2 2
 Here you go: If you’re heavier, buy heavier shit. It’s not rocket surgery
  • 2 2
 @emptybe-er: exactly where is this heavier shit that you speak of? DT Swiss has weight system limits and Trek has weight system limits. Those are examples of two of the largest manufacturers of bike equipment on this planet.
And I will hazard a guess that you are a short tiny person.
  • 3 2
 @emptybe-er: Really? Is that all there is to it?

Heavier doesn't mean stronger. Big guys want performance as well and (for the most part), we don't know what still performs under bigger dudes. Those carbon wheels that are "too stiff and not compliant enough" under a 160lb rider might be perfect for a larger rider, but do I want to drop $2k on a guess? If I'm looking to upgrade my brakes, are there options that give me some modulation along with all the power? The opinion of a 170lb rider means almost nothing to me.

I get that the feel and performance of all parts is pretty subjective, but it would be nice to have SOMETHING to work with.
  • 2 1
 100% this. There's no reason they can't have a 5'11 -6ft 210lb tester as well. Psi is easy to adjust and usually spacers can be added in minutes trailside. I know plenty of riders that fit into that category that have good cardiovascular fitness (I e. They could keep up with the svelte testers). Hell, they can be unfit and die on the climbs for all I care since it's the downs that stress the components more. Also, the opinion of someone not in top shape on how a bike climbs mike be interesting when they don't have the shear watts to clear some features.

I'm losing weight just to make buying bikes easier. I'm finding being under 190 makes tuning your average bike easier.
  • 2 2
 @eh-steve: everyone questioning why they (PB) can't have a heavy tester are living in some alternative reality. If you are 5'11 and are a full time tech-editor or bike tester you are probably riding Mountain bikes several hours on a regular day (everyday day) , and a good part of the entire day when doing field tests. If this is your life, you are not going to be 200 pounds, you will be 140 pounds.
  • 3 0
 @IMeasureStuff: ok the last few years, I have rode over 3000+ kms each year of singletrack with a single day of lifts last year. This year I decided to double up and do 2 days of bike park style riding . I live in central Ontario so we still a few hills on each ride as well. So being 6’, I am down to the light weight of 240 lbs. so explain this to me again how this magical weight loss occurs.
  • 1 0
 @IMeasureStuff: lol, wut. Both Mike's are skinny and sit between 160-170. Somehow neither are 140 but full time editors. What do you measure again?

Jordie Lunn was 5'10" and 205. He was fit and built. Someone built like him could take a bike way closer to it's limits.

Speaking of which Craig Lunn would be an awesome reviewer. He raced when he was younger, bikes road religiously and still rips up trails. he'd be amazing on the impossible climb (puts down watts and has serious technical chops) and he'll ride anything down (I've seen him on double blacks, I assume he wouldn't shy from pro lines). That being said I'm pretty sure he's sub 200lb (but still more than either of the Mike's).
  • 1 0
 @tiffe: ok how about this, don’t buy super light shit. I’m a mechanic and work on a few guys bikes over 200. One is 6’5” 230 and had no issues ripping an xl Intense tracer, 70/30 enves, enve carbon bar, xtr 2 pot brakes. He goes through tires and brake pads but other than that no issues. He’s definitely a ripper and if he wasn’t as smooth he’d have more failures.
  • 1 0
 @jsnfschr: No matter what it’s all gonna be relative. Buy brakes that everyone already knows have great power, use metallic pads. Yes a rim that feels stiff will not feel nearly as stiff with 100 additional pounds. Plenty of info out there for heavy folks. And rarely are lighter bike components stronger unless you’re comparing the absolute bottom to the top range.
  • 2 0
 @eh-steve: my bad, was meant to type 160 pounds and not 140.
  • 3 0
 @emptybe-er: I do not buy light stuff and run a 203 in the back and a 223 in the front of my 5010 V4 plus rims 40mm +. Still does not change the fact that a product review by someone weighing less then 200 lbs is basically useless except for debate about colour choices when it comes to the major components. Lots of riders are heavier then 200 lbs kitted up.
Personally I am lucky enough to stay under 250 lbs and actually be on the tables for products at the edge of the cutoff. Totally sucks for those pushing 275-300 that the industry basically ignores their existence. I realize it is a niche market but it does exist.
  • 1 0
 @IMeasureStuff: So either is a bulk and some squats away from being 190 (i.e. put on some muscle mass). Either that or a drinking problem. Kaz has the edge being taller, but Levy could pull off a tatted beer belly.

I know plenty of people that would be "overweight" by BMI that are fit. When I worked a nightclub nearly every bouncer would have been "oerweight" by BMI, some actually had cardiovascular fitness in addition to muscle.

One of my buddies does around 1600m elevation of pnw singletrack a week in the pnw and hovers around 200lb (that's a normal work week, bike trips would be significantly more). While that's not "I review bikes for a living" level biking, that's also not your avg weekend warrior. And again, Jordie Lunn. If he was still alive I'd love to see him smashing on all the enduro bikes. Imagine him doing huck to flat.
  • 49 0
 yesterday everyone was bashing transition for being on the heavy side, but the patrol is lightest in the test. i know, specs make a difference in total weight-tires etc. but it's cheaper than the SC by 5K...
  • 11 1
 I think they were mostly bashing the aluminum Patrol
  • 2 1
 I was just about to point out the same thing. This Patrol is the GX build too... it could be built in the 31-32lb range if you wanted to spend the extra cash on weight savings.

Im sure the Patrol is going to hold its own in this comparison, but I can already see that the Float X shock (again GX build) is going to come up short in some situations compared to all of the X2 equipped bikes.

Actually, both of the mullet bikes have "trail bike" shocks... so I'm not sure we will have clear answers to the mullet v. full 29er debate either.
  • 5 2
 I was randomly looking through pictures the other day and came across my old Miami Vice Nomad on a scale at 28.5 lbs. Was built out with an X2, 170 fork, standard parts and wheels. Nothing weight conscience at all. WTF happened!?
  • 17 0
 @salespunk: too many warrantied frames.
  • 7 0
 @salespunk: 29ers and longer bikes add weight.
  • 4 1
 My house is cheaper than a SC
  • 1 0
 My 2022 Sentinel GX is 31.2 pounds, with flat pedals, and aluminum wheels.

Saved 3+ pounds over the Guerrilla Gravity Pistola I was on which had ~25mm less travel…

Loving it! But the reach could be a little longer.
  • 44 0
 Very curious about that Tracer actually, which is the first time I've said that about an Intense product in a long while.
  • 8 4
 I own one, it's amazing. The S build shown here is extremely well equipped for the price. Mullet or bust for me. I came from a 29'er and in this category I will always seek a mullet. 29'er all day for CX but once it gets fast and rowdy there are too many benefits for a mixed wheel setup.
  • 2 0
 @jayracer7474: how tall mate?
  • 11 2
 @jayracer7474: you ride a 29er for cyclocross?
  • 7 2
 @RonSauce: 29 = 700c just like 27.5 = 650c

Also I wish they had an alum version of the new tracer for a rad park build so that you wouldn't have to worry about the carbon as much.
  • 3 0
 I just got mine in white last week and love it!!! Was sending it first lap at Sun Peaks.
  • 7 2
 @NorCalNomad: Intense not doing US made aluminum bikes is such a huge miss for them.
  • 1 0
 @NorCalNomad: My first carbon bike...Holding up great. I did switch brakes over to Saints as they have never given me a problem in almost 10 years.
  • 1 0
 @RonSauce: no, this is my only bike now.
  • 1 0
 @chrismac: 6' and I ride a large
  • 4 0
 @NorCalNomad: Soz mate 27.5” == 650b. 650c is different.
  • 1 3
 @NorCalNomad: yes road rims are 700c as are 29" mtb, road bikes and cx are not 29".

650b being 27.5 is irrelevant since the "twenty-seven and a half inches" is 100% marketing and isn't even an approximation of size.
  • 2 0
 That Tracer looks amazing.
  • 2 0
 @jayracer7474: would you size up to an xl if you were 6’3”?
  • 39 0
 I need to know whether mullet bikes or 29ers are better... definitively. No "mixed" messages please.
  • 85 0
 "Motherf****er say 'it depends' one more time!"
  • 13 1
 @Lanebobane: I dare you..... i double dare you!
  • 3 1
 @deez-nucks: Now it's serious. The double dog dare!
  • 2 0
 One size is better than the other... You can't choose both !!
  • 4 0
 I hearby lobby for 28.25 wheel sizes
  • 43 10
 I'm sorry, but the Fezzari is so ugly
  • 19 1
 It's okay it's not your fault, we're all in this together
  • 10 2
 Agreed... I somehow really dislike bikes with bent top tubes... Looks inelegant.
  • 2 0
 @mtnranger: it more how the link intersects the drop and covers up the opening. No clean lines on that bike.
  • 13 1
 I can’t ride anything that sounds like a cheap Italian duty-free airport luggage brand.
  • 6 1
 @blissindex: Yeah, right? There is something about Fezzari that just sounds like a sketchy off the shelf bike.
  • 1 0
 heinous
  • 35 2
 I think I'm too poor for MTB anymore
  • 27 4
 Would it be dumb to have - besides a range of bikes - a range of testers with different body built? I mean I am a 110 kg(242,5lbs) guy looking at ~70 kg testers and I am wondering if I would have the same experience with the same bike.
  • 50 0
 Excellent questions and a valid point for sure. In a perfect world, one of us would be much bigger. The challenge is bike sizing - we need editors who can ride the same size so we don't have to get more bikes than we want. It's often not feasible to have multiple sizes of the same bike. I'll add this to the podcast question list.
  • 27 1
 @mikelevy: hit the gym, the donut shop or both
  • 5 0
 @mikelevy: Just eat more donuts, Levy!
  • 5 0
 @mikelevy: let alone the massive difference in balance between a size S and a size L, considering most companies use the same CS length but grow the front end quite a bit, the size S would like have a very sharp front end where you can do a lot of the imput with your feet while the L would need you to move quite a lot more for the same result. You can only take a review for the size that is tested really which makes those review pretty useless for many people until bike companies start to grow their bikes globally across the sizes and not just adjust reach.
  • 5 1
 @RM888 in the design and data world you're an "outlier." You have to make decisions to fit the majority of users the best when designing something. Unfortunately that means that often the outliers needs often don't get addressed as well. But if you start designing for outliers you end up with a product that isn't as good for most people. Hopefully you knowing that you're a bigger dude you've gotten use to applying a "personal filter" on reviews of products. Like paying close attention to when they talk about suspension and setup if they are saying it needed a lot of dampening to get it to work right that should probably be a clue for you that it might be hard for you to get setup well for your outlier needs.

@Balgaroth Saying that a review for one frame size only holds up for that frame size isn't true or accurate. Yeah on the XS and XXL sizes it might be a bit different (see previous comments on outliers) but it's going to be similar across the majority of the sizes.
  • 11 6
 Try finding someone who is 110kg, good at bikes, good at writing/presenting etc, etc and basically no one is. Most people who ride bikes for a living are closer to 70kg cause you know... exercise.
  • 8 1
 @NorCalNomad: I get that the XXL and big folks may be the outliers, but I also know (at least in my riding community), there are a lot of folks riding who are 200lb+ riding M-XXL sized frames. Heavier riders, whether they're overweight, jacked or somewhere in between aren't uncommon at all.
  • 2 0
 @Upduro: both, get that dirty bulk going
  • 12 0
 @djyosh: I try to eat as many as I can tbh
  • 1 0
 I’m 103 kg. Meet all of your criteria, and live in Bellingham. But I broke my leg last week, so I’m not that helpful right now. I agree it’s a less common combination though. @plustiresaintdead:
  • 1 0
 What do you mean? @shredwhiteandblue:
  • 5 0
 @NorCalNomad: bike review remains interesting for component and suspension design of a bike across all sizes but that's about it. Now I shouldn't complain since I am 1m80 which is very average and fit the size L which are mostly tested. But I know that I prefer bikes with a Front to Rear center ratio of minimum 1.8, preferably somewhere around 1.75 which don't exist anymore with the current long and slack bikes that forgot to grow their rear ends at the same time. 2 Fun facts for you:
- I recently tried a bike that has 10mm extra reach and slacker HA compared to mine with 10mm less CS length, so while the overall size of the bike was roughly the same, that bike was terrible to corner, 2 brothers own the same bike in the same size and both complained the bike was hard to corner from day one, ratio of said bike is around 1.90, mini 1.80.
- I added an angleset to my girlfriend Liv Hail going from 66HA to 64HA, she is riding a size S on which she is very comfortable. She isn't a bike nerds like me so didn't know what to expect. First spin with the bike she immediately complained that her bike wasn't turning as well anymore. Her ratio went from 1.66 to 1.74, imagine if she had to ride a bike with a 1.90 ratio she would have killed me.
Having a good ratio allows you to have the benefits of a long front end to not go OTB in the steep and loading the front tire while still having a bike that corners well. And there is no reasons aside from bike brands lazyness that all bike sizes couldn't benefit from the same balance ratio.
Last fun fact, one of the bike that was deemed the best cornering bike of its time was the 222 (non-evo) which had a ratio somewhere around 1.6 in size L.
  • 2 0
 @Balgaroth: Intresting point. Just calculated the ratio of my 29er/180mm freerider and it´s 1,77.
Stable as a monster truck, still handsome - and it climbs good.
This is probably why i love this machine.
  • 2 0
 @Balgaroth: I’m an XL bike guy and have always had the balance issue on the larger sizes. Both my bikes are 1.8 which is the BEST I could do for XL DH bike and trail bike… it’s insane how much better things felt getting on those and insanely better cornering. Now I imagine if they were even more balanced…
  • 3 2
 @stormracing: Yeah, it's fine to like what you like, but longer rears don't make a better cornering bike for lots of people. Before "balanced" became the online geometry obsession, it was all about ultra short chainstays for better cornering. I don't think there has to be a winner, but lots of people (me included) have the opposite experience from you.

Are you guys who need longer chainstays lighter riders? What about leg length? The PB riders that love longer rears are all relatively longer-legged, light people. I'm wondering if that has something to do with it.
  • 1 0
 @TheRamma: 73kg and 87cm legs - you could be right
  • 1 3
 @Werratte: I'm 90 kg (and not even fat, just built like a linebacker), 1.83m height, and 79 cm, I like a long reach and short stays! Still doesn't mean you proportional people don't deserve a good bike fit, too. Just worried us hobbits aren't going to get left behind.

It's my new pet theory, because I physically can't stand chainstays >435 mm, but like a reach of 475-490mm.
  • 2 0
 @TheRamma:
Steve explains what's wrong with some bikes im corners:
m.youtube.com/watch?v=i5R60JHJbxI
  • 2 0
 @TheRamma: you might be onto something. I am 1m80, 87cm legs, 85kg, roughly 15/18% fat with most of my weight being located in my legs and glutes. We I had bikes with adjustable CS I always preferred longer settings usually around 445mm as this is deemed long by today standard. I can ride bike with long reach and short CS but feel like I really have to move a lot for the front end to bite and corner properly whereas longer CS allows me to do most of the imput using my legs while remaining more centered on the bike. Main advantage I see to this is that when you get tired short CS bike tend to quickly produce a lot of understeering, which you won't get with long CS. Also I used to race alpine skiing and still train and ski quite a lot (reason of the heavy low end) which maybe bias my style with wanting to imput with my legs while remaining neutral up top. Interesting discussion either way.
  • 2 0
 @Balgaroth: I could nearly copy all of your text, besides the weight and the skiing... okay, and i am around 13 to 14% fat (not too bad, for a 55 years old, aint it?).
My Spindrift has exactly the 445mm CS and i took a size M with a 50mm stem because of the balance and the weight on the front.
  • 1 0
 @Balgaroth: yeah, I'm a very top heavy rider. Despite training my legs, and having decent strength, I just carry a lot of weight in my shoulders. God, when I'm on a lifting cycle I look like a cartoon dude who skips leg day at the gym. My long torso and short legs also put that weight over the bars more. It's why I think I like a higher FR/RC bike.

I'm never arguing for companies not to make 450+ CS bikes, just that not every bike with a long reach needs long stays.
  • 1 0
 @lightone: yeah, it's a good analysis from a smart person, but I think there is more variability in terrain, suspension kinematics, and body type that it can account for.

Still glad he's working on it, not trying to be dismissive.
  • 1 0
 @NorCalNomad: I get it I am an oulier, but it could be usefull to know what to search for when I am looking for new bike, suspension.
As an example I am always trying to search for more close ratio between the shock stroke and rearwheel travel. I imagine that frame has its limits when shock stroke is 50mm with 170mm rearwheel travel when I want to set up the airpressure/spring weight. I would be more than curious what look for in other aspects as well to get out the max of a bike as on outlier.
  • 2 0
 @TheRamma: This guy fux
  • 25 0
 “eleventy-two hundred dollars” has to be one of the prices for a bike I’ve ever heard
  • 23 1
 Is it going to be available first for the beta subscribers Big Grin ?
  • 1 1
 I very weirdly got a new issue of Beta a few weeks ago and all of the editors listed were the people listed on this field test?
  • 1 0
 @salespunk: Yeah, me too. As far as I'm concerned it was Fake Beta.
  • 3 0
 Beta is dead.
  • 15 1
 PB definitely needs to incorporate at least one BIG day with the bikes. Think 5K of climbing and 35+ miles because that is how these bikes get used a lot of the time. Yes we are all focused on descending, but how they feel during rides that have hours in the saddle make a difference as well.
  • 6 5
 That is ridiculously impractical. Its not that hard to extrapolate performance on a long ride based on a shorter loop.
  • 10 0
 It'd be nice to do this, but the Field Test is more about back to back comparisons and we just don't have the time to do 4-6 hour rides on all the test bikes we have on hand for an FT. That's not the case with our standard long-form reviews, though - those bikes see much more saddle time and plenty of monster rides.
  • 3 1
 5k of climbing around Bellingham can be done in about 20 miles which they are probably doing every ride day. Either way, it’s easy enough to figure out a bike’s characteristics by comparing the bikes lap to lap.
  • 2 1
 @mikelevy: understood the logistics would be difficult in a two week test
  • 2 3
 I agree 100% Bikes need to be taken for a good ride. Who wants to go out for 20+ miles and 5k of climbing with DH tyres on? What are these bikes like when the terrain goes up and down and not just down for 1000ft
  • 3 0
 @CM999: You must not be familiar with Bellingham. A huge climb is associated with every ride here. Everyone of those bikes were ridden up and down with heavy tires. That’s how it’s done.
  • 3 0
 @CM999: sounds like you're after an xc bike.
  • 15 0
 price, weight, travel, looks - gotta be the Patrol that comes out on top
  • 12 0
 VERY interested to hear how the tires performed! Can you compare/contrast with Maxxis DD MaxxGrip Assegai/DHR2? Pretty please @mikekazimer
  • 12 3
 Fezzari and Contra are my top interests. I've already seen lots of reviews of the new Hightower, but the Fezzari and Contra have me really looking forward to the discussion videos. Also Intense. Intense has always been there, but somehow not getting much attention in my circles. Intense comes in an out over the years, so I'm looking forward to that one too.
  • 4 3
 I've got a bike check/review of the la sal peak coming out on my wife's youtube channel, Fife and Flow in the next couple of weeks. I haven't ridden the Contra, but man it looks cool. Feel free to reach out to me if you have any Fezzari questions.
  • 1 0
 *oops. swap hightower for MEGA. That's too much bike for what I do. But I'd love to try such a high end bike.
  • 1 1
 @andrewfif: Have you ridden the newest Stumpjumper Evo? That's what I ended up getting because my local shop had the size and model I wanted already out on the floor.
  • 1 0
 I haven’t m, but my friend about my size and better than me spent the last year riding one as a reviewer and he loved it and ripped on it. Have fun! @Evo6:
  • 12 0
 I wouldn’t really want to take my lunch out a snack box on the underside of the bike
  • 8 0
 Definitely something we talk about in the review, having to flip the bike upside down for access.
  • 15 1
 If it's not already nicknamed the "poop chute," it should be!
  • 3 1
 My lunch comes out of my bottom, not in.
  • 2 0
 They should have called that ‘the dirtbox’
  • 3 0
 @watchtower: Noice. For once we can say 'south park already did it' instead of 'simpsons already did it'

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Red_Hot_Catholic_Love
  • 1 0
 @rich-2000: Should have called it "the piehole".
  • 12 3
 Dang. Weights are just crazy now. When you can get an SL E-Bike that weighs only a couple pounds more than most of these, there's got to be a problem. My still fantastic 2017 S-Works Enduro, M, 650B, weighs in an 31lbs with pedals AND Airliner inserts. All stock otherwise. 2.8 tires no less. I get to ride the newest Specialized hotness when I want, and didn't take the opportunity to upgrade to the current generation because: A) only 29. B) honestly could not sense any difference other than it feeling like I stole my big brother's bike. Yea, I'm a bit of a shorty with short inseams.

So WTAF with the weights these days? Honestly asking.
  • 2 0
 Not to mention, that 2017-19 enduro is one of the best looking bikes ever. The slimmed down frame tubes of the brace were such a huge improvement over the previous generation. Also, you got swat box, which is so clutch.
  • 6 2
 Nothing is free. If you want more capable components, that typically means it’ll cost you in weight. Modern “enduro” spec components are heavier than what we rode in 2017.

e.g. the Fox 38 is over half a pound heavier than the 36. Enduro casing tires are about half a pound heavier each than their trail casing siblings. It adds up quick but you pay that price to go quicker back down.
  • 2 0
 @jalopyj: Yea, Zeb and the like are chonky for sure. But then I have to ask, were bikes and components like mine snapping like twigs? I can appreciate a weight penalty for much better engineering, but personally I don't see it. Bigger, chonkier, I guess more robust, but actually really better in overall performance? Don't see/feel it. Mind you, we're talking over 10% increases in weight, that aint no small thing.
  • 1 0
 @twonsarelli: AKA The X-Wing.
  • 3 3
 @jalopyj: Only because the engineers choose to make them heavier rather than use proper engineering to do the job
  • 3 2
 @CM999:

Strong, light, cheap. Pick two. Barring a revolutionary change in material science or significant, quantum leap forward in innovation, this has always has been the axiom.
  • 4 0
 @jalopyj: That used to be true now its pick 1. Cheap doesn’t exist.
  • 1 1
 The proletariat screamed for lifetime frame warranty and weight is the trade-off. These bikes weigh as much as e-bikes.
  • 1 0
 @jalopyj: It’s wagon wheels making bikes heavier. Forks have to be heavier to deal w larger wheel, frames, etc. Tires and wheels are heavier, frames are heavier. Components aren’t heavier to make them more durable than they were before, that happened in the 90’s
  • 11 0
 The Deviate seems to have an Argotal up front though.
Also, where is the Grim Donut?
  • 4 1
 Asking the real questions.
  • 10 0
 I'm really interested to hear about those tires actually after a lot of use by different people.
  • 8 1
 How many $8.5k bikes does Fezzari actually sell? I'm sure they sell a bunch of bikes at lower price points, but at $8k, I just don't see them being cross shopped with the premium brands.

Maybe there's a few customers out there who need to have top of the line parts (AXS, Fox Factory, etc), but can't afford other brands $10k bikes?
  • 1 0
 True. I also wouldn't spend 8k on a Fezzari. But if I was on a budget and needed a new Enduro bike, the La Sal would surely be on my shortlist. It's available at a price point at which most of the others haven't even started yet - which possibly makes it the most relevant bike here for a lot of riders.
  • 6 0
 Maybe a “best of class” or “where are they now” field test, where you take the precious winners after 4 or 5 years of pumping out ((((mega high quality free content that should not be taken for granted))))) these Annuals, to show us where and how that enduro, spire (I’m partial and very biased) and such and such editors favorites and what not- stack them up after all that time and those seasons on all them bikes and give us a greatest hits soundtrack
  • 1 0
 This. That would be so much more interesting than that model from that boutique brand that will probably sell like 5 bikes a year.
  • 9 3
 Came here for the unjustified hate towards Intense. Leaving disappointed.

Nothing on the paint. Nothing on them being discounted. Only one comment on how they’re not made in the USA out of aluminum. Get it together Intense, pinkbike should be way more emotional over the new Tracer?
  • 5 1
 @superburner there are some comments on the silly storage UNDER the down tube. Everything else is just normal intense. If it was good looking we'd say something but no one expects them to get that right.
  • 9 3
 Gwin climbing the ranks; peanut gallery piping down!
  • 1 1
 I don't usually have a go at them, but that paint job really lets the side down IMO. I winced when I saw it.
  • 4 1
 Who thinks that making the access to the lunch box in the muddiest part of any bike. Clearly Jeff has never ridden in mud
  • 6 0
 @CM999: Well..... As frequent access storage it might have drawbacks, especially in mud but I'm coming around to the Intense storage system.

1. The more common 'top of the downtube' sandwich box kinda makes your frame look like Tupperware. Under the downtube does have better aesthetics.
2. I take tools and a tube on every ride and almost never use them. Due to frequency of use, access isn't really an issue. If I flat and need a tube and a pump, there's a good chance the bike is going upside down. Now the under frame storage access point is exactly where I need it.
3. That's a part of the frame that can take a beating. If there's damage then I've compromised a $30 cover and not a $3.5k frame.
4. It provides internal frame access in an area that can be problematic for cable routing. I've had to pull BB's to run a dropper and this would presumably address that.
5. Keeps the extra weight of tools at the lowest point of the frame.
6. Easy to clean out the inside of your frame if you ride in the mud and wet.

So I'm not sure that it works as effective storage for snacks and a cellphone but beyond that I've talked myself into it.
  • 1 0
 @CM999: just curious, are most people really thinking of these as snack/lunch boxes? I see them as a place to put tools, tubes, and first aid. Things I will only access in a pinch. I would never want to stop and open up my bike to grab a snack. So to me I think that lower location makes a lot of sense. But maybe I’m missing something.
  • 1 0
 One thing about the Tracer that absolutely sucks is that it's only available as a mullet. That seems to be the only major shortcoming. Apparently they will release a 29er version very soon though.
  • 9 1
 The contra mc looks so cool
  • 8 0
 I need to see the review of the Contra - looks amazing!
  • 2 2
 It better be @ 37.2lbs.
  • 5 0
 @GBoyd: Spoiler - it is.
  • 3 0
 agreed!
  • 6 0
 Kaz, are you skeptical that aliens exist, skeptical about what aliens are saying (do they speak to you?), skeptical about the government denial that aliens are among us?
  • 30 0
 Yes.
  • 16 3
 It certainly doesn't need to be aliens from another planet, but something strange is happening and it's weird that everyone isn't looking for answers and talking about it. Be skeptical, but be curious as well.
  • 13 0
 @mikelevy, wait, where else would aliens come from? You don't believe in lizard people now, do you?
  • 17 2
 @mikekazimer: Maybe they're not aliens and they come from here and we can't see them? Maybe they come from another dimension? Maybe it's us from another timeline? Aliens from another planet is probably the easiest one to believe, but who knows.
  • 6 1
 @mikelevy: Yeah maybe we're the aliens and the original inhabitants have transcended this dimension but still use Earth as some sort of dimensional waypoint or portal. Maybe they brought us here to cover their tracks, like "no interdimensional beings here, just some dumb humans".
  • 3 0
 @mikelevy: literally the entire MIB movie franchise plot
  • 1 0
 I think they take human form and destroy us at normal things for kicks, like Nino's perfect season, that's not human
  • 1 0
 @mikelevy: You only need to figure out a way to get Kaz to read "Fingerprints of the Gods" by Graham Hancock
  • 7 0
 But, but why didn't you include the new Geometron with the new chain drive thing?!?
  • 2 0
 I think that monster is in a class of its own...
  • 2 1
 one word: Availability
  • 1 1
 @hamncheez: I don't think that's it. All Nicolai (Geometron) bikes are available with a lead time of 10 days.

I'm sure they didn't include it just because the Supre Drive most likely doesn't hold it's own (yet) against established drivtrain systems and they probably didn't want to ruin Cedrics party.
  • 6 2
 Can't wait! I'm very interested in the La Sal and I've always thought Deviate's were awesome.

I will say that I know it's not the focus, but I do really care about how these bike climb. I live a mile or two from a trail system with some rough and nasty stuff even on certain cross country trails (Bootleg Canyon outside of Vegas), so when I upgrade from/add to my first gen Bronson, I'd consider an enduro bike like these, but I still like to ride up the singletrack rather than shuttle/grind up the road when I can.
  • 3 0
 I can’t speak to the Claymore, but my Highlander has been the best technical climbing bike I’ve had. I’ll ride 1-2 miles on the road to get to the local trails, and it seems proper tires are more of an impact than the suspension. I need worry more about my fitness than the minor percent of power I lose to the idler.

Other bikes I’ve owned are faster on a gravel/fire road climb, but the Highlander absolutely kills singletrack climbs, IMO.
  • 3 0
 @padrefan1982: The Highlander was a bike I desperately wanted and swore to myself I'd buy if I got a job in Scotland that I was interviewing for (I didn't). The rocky, loose desert trails I currently ride reward traction more than pure efficiency, so it still might be a good choice.
  • 2 0
 @MarcusBrody: I think you’re onto something there. I was able to take my Highlander to St. George Utah last spring for a week. Many climbs were rocky and loose and the bike ate them up. It’ll get up most anything if you can keep the legs moving.
  • 1 0
 Not that it's in this test but the WAO Arrival with the 170 links could be THE bike in this category with outstanding climbing efficiency and ability.
  • 6 0
 Can we not get an Enduro in for a solid baseline? Feel like the last trail test all the questions were about how the bikes compared to the SJ Evo.
  • 11 0
 We chat about it in the Roundtable discussion. It still holds its own even after being on the market for 3 years.
  • 3 1
 @mikekazimer: I was recently in the market for a new frame and was very close to puling the trigger on an Enduro. The geometry now seems slightly dated, but still very solid. Additionally, it does have the shock down low and the in frame storage is genius. Why every bike manufacturer is not clamoring to design that into their trail and enduro frames I don't know. I became a huge fan of MX/mullet bikes over the last couple of years and knew I'd run whatever I bought with that set up. Putting the Enduro in the high setting and then putting a 27.5 wheel out back puts it pretty close to what I was looking for. However, it simply made more sense for me to go to a bike built around a mixed wheel set up. I ended up ordering a new Nomad as yr first ride sold me on it. It crosses all the eyes and dots the tease or something like that and I can't wait to unleash it for whatever shenanigans I can get into.
  • 2 1
 @hellbelly: please can you educate me on how the geometry of the enduro is slightly dated ?
  • 2 0
 @Simzesun: Perhaps I needed to add this disclaimer "for me". My current bike has a slacker head angle than the Enduro and as noted I could get the Enduro close to what I'd want it would be a compromise elsewhere especially in the seat angle. These are very small differences, but they add up to noticeable changes in performance and ride feel. Personally, I also prefer shorter wheelbase bikes and find longer ones are trickier to handle in the slow speed tight technical terrain I routinely ride, maintenant.
  • 5 0
 One of the main reasons I’ve had a Transition as my last 5 bikes, is because they are built and tested on the trails I ride. Curious to see if that Patrol reigns supreme with the home court advantage…
  • 7 3
 Every year the test should include the previous years winners from say the last 2 years? Just for comparisons sake.

Maybe just weigh the frames with shock to keep it simple? Everything else just muddys the waters

Separate test for all the hi pivots, followed by a test pitting the best hi pivots vs the best non high pivot.

Would rather see the Cannondale Jekyll and maybe an Evil or any other bike that people may actually buy?
A contra, Fezzari or a Deviate?? How many of those have you ever seen or will ever see?
  • 3 0
 Yes frame weights with or without shocks, I don't care. But from their perspective that would require stripping down each bike. In an ideal world each mfg would show a photo of their frame on a scale, in each size, so we could be sure of what hardware and size is on each bike.
  • 4 0
 I've seen a decent number of Fezzaris in the wild... they're a pretty reasonable budget / DTC choice. Not really the same thing as the boutique brands like Contra/Deviate. Generally agree about getting attainable bikes in the field tests though.
  • 4 0
 We compare these bikes to some of our previous faves from earlier FTs in the upcoming roundtable video. The reason we don't have more/older bikes is time constraints.
  • 2 3
 The Contra & Deviate are the only two I'm really interested in seeing the reviews (even though I'm very unlikely to buy either). PB have done a great job of selecting a spread of bikes here, the only one weak point is the Fezzari IMO, which I see as a US-only budget brand but somehow it's very expensive.
  • 1 0
 @mikelevy: I spoke too soon, can't wait for you're roundtable.You guys are the best in the business.
  • 3 0
 It would be interesting to pair a Cube Stereo ONE77 against these High-End bikes, i mean you can get a ONE77 with Rockshox Ultimate and full XT topped with Raceface parts and descent geometry for 4000€.
Is the frame really that bad on a Cube?
www.cube.eu/en/2022/bikes/mountainbike/fullsuspension/stereo-one77/cube-stereo-one77-race-29-desertngrey
  • 1 0
 I recently test rode a Stereo One77, but the cheaper version with Fox suspension. Very decent bike, actually considered buying one but ended up choosing the Canyon Torque.
  • 7 0
 Transition is gonna be the top dawg...made for PNW
  • 5 0
 Interesting that it's the lightest bike on test, especially given how much shade was thrown its way on the announcement article.
  • 3 0
 @kingtut87: I think some people misunderstood that the frameset weights included the rear shock.
  • 5 0
 Transitions are too heavy.. wait, the Patrol is the lightest in the test and far from the most expensive, what???
I am so confused!
  • 5 2
 Unsure how you could grade this in the test, might even come down to polling the audience, but it would be great if warranty and after sale service were factored into the reviews. If you ride a bike for multiple seasons, ride hard, or are a heavier person this is a decision making factor. I've warrantied bikes from both Santa Cruz and Commencal and the experiences were night and day. 11k for a bike is crazy, but its a little easier to swallow if you get free hardware and bearings for however long you own the bike, and warranties are quick and hassle free. I know both SC and Transition kill it here.
  • 2 0
 IMO, you’re always going to get better warranty service on the continent where your manufacturer lives. Of course these bigger companies have offices and warehouses abroad, but it’s never going to be the company headquarters.
  • 3 0
 Thats why the frames are so expensive. You are paying up front for the warranty replacements and “free bearings”
  • 3 0
 I can tell you right now that I'd go with the Commencal. Competitive weight, WAY better pricing and a proven WCDH and EWS pedigree. Any gains the other bikes may have will be marginal at best and at that point it just boils down to how exclusive you want to look in the parking lot.
  • 1 0
 They're going to point out the wide chain stay width of the Commencal and complain that their calves rub while riding.
  • 3 0
 I just want to say thank you to the entire team, I'm excited for it all to get released and will consume it all. There will basically be a movie length worth of content by me and all for free behind no *insert dirty word*. How you all churn out such high quality content always amazes me, no doubt beyond those infront of the camera, behind the camera and AV peeps there's all the planning, logistics, web people too!
  • 2 0
 I wouldn't mind seeing a review of a v1 vs. v2 bike. For example, if you own a Megatower v1, is a Megatower v2 worth the $$$. What are the differences in terms of riding experience, times on the test track ,etc.? Toss in there for extra credit, what if you have a v1 + cascade link, are you just getting a snackbox and some fresh paint (not to under value the snackbox or a kick-ass paint job)?
  • 6 0
 When do we get the budget enduro bike field test?
  • 3 0
 Not a terrible idea.
  • 2 1
 @mikelevy: we also need a Budget quality field test - Be honest like Paul Aston.
  • 3 2
 They wouldn’t be able to include a SC if they did that
  • 5 1
 I'm glad to see my Bird Aeris 9 isn't in the test....because I don't want anyone else to be riding one...at least not where I live. (;
  • 1 0
 How you getting on with it? I’m debating a frame swap from my privateer 141 to the Aeris 9 for a bump travel and for geometry that I think will suit me better. The 465 reach on the 141s medium is a hair long.
  • 1 0
 @jalopyj: They are pre-orders for September. So I'll let you know in October. I've always wanted one of their bikes but after they updated the Aeris, I put in a pre-order. At $1800 w shock...can you go wrong?
  • 3 1
 Thought for sure there would be some comments on the position of the Deviant link. Man it's really sticking out there. Reminds me slightly of very old VPP before they figured out how to tuck the lower link in the frame. Maybe it tucks a little when loaded or isn't as bad as it looks in the picture? Certainly a good looking bike otherwise. Looking forward to the review.
  • 6 0
 I had the shorter travel version a year or two ago and thought the same thing, but it rotates up and out of the way when you're on the bike. Pretty sure I never hit it, and don't think we had any issues with this one either. Something to keep in mind, though.
  • 2 0
 @mikelevy: just went out to scope my Claymore as it's not something I've run into. I don't know how far up it goes when it's sagged but totally unweighted a 32t ring hangs lower than the link does. My girlfriends highlander and 30t is a bit of a toss up unweighted though.
  • 1 0
 @mikelevy: Thx for the response! Good to know.
  • 3 0
 @dancingwithmyself: I’m not sure how similar the Highlander’s link is to the Claymore, but my Highlander has over 1200 miles since Jan of this year and the link itself looks great riding in some very chunky and rocky areas. I’ve been running a lower bash for most of that mileage, but I was more concerned about destroying chainrings than the link. As others have stated, I think in most cases you’d contact chainring well before hitting the link.
  • 6 0
 I thought Satchel Cronk and Max Baron were the new Conti tire names
  • 2 0
 Shhh, those are the top secret 2025 model names.
  • 1 0
 @mikekazimer: don’t forget Skye Schillhammer
  • 5 1
 Shame something like the new Bird Aeris 9 couldn't have got into the test - Pick a mid/high range build and see how it stacks up vs the conventional (and more expensive).
  • 4 2
 This is purely a shootout of the Ohlins equipped Tracer vs. Megatower. I'm going to pick the Intense and grab a bag of popcorn...I think suspension characteristics will beat out high pivots this year. I know it's not updated, but I've always been curious how the RM Altitude would hold up against the California brands. West Coast vs. West Coast friendly competition.
  • 4 2
 The pic of the Contra's downtube-that's some unimpressive welding work. Carbon can hide the sins of poor manufacturing but welds that groady are what I'd expect from a kid in shop class. The blingy idler and flash paint-just lipstick on a pig.
  • 3 2
 Yep. I don't care where it's made; that's bad welding. Looks like poor paint finish at a pivot too. Piping up about made in the USA, and that's the product? I'll take a Taiwanese frame, please! I hope they get it sorted, because it looks like an interesting bike
  • 33 0
 @Tambo: Hey Guys! Evan from Contra Bikes here...Yes I completely agree that downtube weld isn't pretty. The bike that Pinkbike rode (what you see pictured) was the second prototype of the newest design. They needed the bike earlier than expected for this review, so this was the most recent bike I could provide them. Those plates were laser cut slightly oversized, then mitered on a manual mill by me. By trying to miter it to fit the tube, I made the ends where it met the tube quite thin and the fit wasn't perfect which made the plate really tough to weld. The production frames have a precise laser cut plate that doesn't require mitering. There is a nice consistent pocket for the weld to sit in and this will make it much easier to get a clean/straight consistent weld. Lesson learned!

As for the paint finish, this color shifting wet paint job, although beautiful, is not at all durable. The local powder coaters were moving locations when this bike needed a paint job so I went with wet paint on this bike from a local frame painter. The production frames are all powder coated, which provides a way more durable finish.
  • 4 1
 @EvanTurpen: Glad it's just a blip and production versions will be pukka. Good luck with it!
  • 1 3
 Clearly they never ride in mud where they designed that bike
  • 4 0
 @EvanTurpen: way to take ownership on this one. Also, way to get a bike out for this test on a short timeline. Sometimes you just have to run whatcha brung.

Looking forward to seeing (maybe test riding) these in the wild in their tidier final form.
  • 5 0
 Finally a Transition Patrol !!!!
  • 6 2
 In an enduro bike test they didn't include the Specialized Enduro. That's not very enduro of you.
  • 7 1
 It has been tested before, or did I miss any updates on that frame?
  • 5 2
 @bok-CZ: just making an Enduro joke.
  • 1 0
 @bok-CZ: Hardly anyone knows it, but Specialized has actually updated the current Enduro frame several times to iron out the reliability inadequacies of the original design. The last update started rolling out this year. They claim to have changed the carbon lay-up of the head tube area because the original design had a pretty bad design flaw. The forums are full of pictures of Enduros with cracked head tubes.
  • 1 0
 @Muscovir: Yeah I know about its realiability issues, would not consider that as a major update which would lead to different review. Localy we see more chainstays broken
  • 3 0
 This is exciting! I've been thinking my 160/~145 bikes could be a bit bigger and I'm looking forward to hearing about these.
  • 16 11
 Sad to see not a single full 27.5” bike
  • 6 2
 Surprised that neither of Canyon's enduro bikes are in the list but the Fezzari is.
  • 3 0
 We recently tested the Strive, so we weren't going to re-test it given the time constraints: www.pinkbike.com/news/review-the-2022-canyon-strive-is-longer-slacker-shapeshifter.html
  • 4 0
 have you see the issues canyon have right now? a solid 4/5 bikes are having BB inserts cracking on all the CF models for 22+ models.
  • 5 7
 @mikelevy: Yet you test every SC despite them being the same as each other.
  • 6 3
 @CM999: I know, super weird, right? Testing the new Santa Cruz bikes that so many people are interested in - holy shit, we're the worst! We test almost everything, dude, including bikes you're not interested in and that you think are too expensive but that other people like and can afford. I'm reading all your comments and I'm not sure if you need a hug or just something else explained to you.
  • 1 0
 @mikelevy: That's honestly sad. The Canyon Strive or the Torque would have been a way more relevant addition to the test than the Contra.
  • 4 1
 Okay top comment in the carbon patrol article yesterday was about how heavy the bike is, yet it's the lightest in this lineup ... *Eye roll*
  • 1 2
 I too roll my eyes every time I read "weight" comments in any biking forums.
  • 2 0
 I mulleted my 21 meta tr race. 160fr 140r. Looking forward to the SX review. How much difference does 20mm travel make? Is doing more yoga a better option to soak up the hits?
  • 2 0
 i've got a wrp'ed TR as well. fun little ripper. tho i have have pondered the feasibility of running a longer stroke shock in lieu of the clevis to eke out a bit more cush. curious if there's a standard shock spec that would do the trick...
  • 1 0
 @xy9ine: I’m looking into this now. The wrp link is 11mm longer eye to eye. So going back to the original link would mean on a mullet you could run an old imperial shock. 222mm by 67mm stock should yield 160-170mm travel.
  • 1 0
 Very curious to see how the Intense suspension works on this version of the Tracer. I have a 2017-2021 version and it's horrible. Every rock and root causes the bike to hang up like nothing I have ever experienced before. Visually the axle path looks similar?
  • 1 0
 Ive got an idea
If PB could just test aaaaalll the FS bikes currently available
aaaand report back to us , which one is the absolute best of the bunch, I think we’d all be good
I mean pfhhh
that’s all we’re really asking right?
welp there ya go problem solved
I’ll get my coat
  • 2 0
 Anybody else really hoping the contra has the fastest times in the test?

At this point (they just reviewed the megaplower) its one of the high pivots... come on homemade steel contraption!
  • 1 0
 @alicialeggett - curious with the bikes with more progressive suspension curve - do you still run the default amount of volume spacers in the bikes with the air shocks? I'm the same weight as you and I am finding progressive frame with default spacers still to ramp up too much on the bigger hits.
  • 2 0
 I'm interested to hear their findings related to the torsional stiffness of the contra. That rear triangle has a long unsupported arm running to that upper link.
  • 3 0
 Curious what the Pink Bike crew have to say. I got to sprint Evan’s first prototype up a steep climb. It felt very solid and climbs amazing, lots of traction and efficiency. The linkages in the virtual high pivot design look very strong despite the large rear triangle. It’s cromoly steel, so will have different feel to carbon or aluminum. More like a BMX bike. Tortional flex you’ll feel in bikes will be mostly rear wheel dish and tire squirm.
  • 1 0
 How many takes was it to get one where no bike fell over? Great production work on this video!

Here's an idea, take a leaf out of the Semanuk book and do a continuous shot field test video........
  • 9 5
 Unless a Mullet bike can accept both wheel sizes forget about it.
  • 3 4
 This. While I like my mulleted bike I wouldn't want to run a mullet that couldn't become either wheel size. I suspect that when wheel sizes settle out, a same-size wheel choice will win out over mullets for most situations.
  • 1 0
 why? you go from 29 to 27.5, realise its better and then have no reason to have anther 29 wheel laying around
  • 3 3
 I had been looking at bottom-bracket pivoting frames for a single speed, but everything I read said that they all pedal terribly and that the design died out for good reason. I'll be very interested to see how the Tracer does. Bellingham looks like such a heavenly place to ride. Great job on the riding shots.
  • 13 1
 The lower link rotates around the Tracer's bottom bracket, but the virtual pivot that the axle rotates around isn't there.
  • 2 0
 @mikelevy: Gotcha, thanks!
  • 2 1
 I believe the issue is you would have 0% anti squat. That being said Starling has www.starlingcycles.com/bikes/beady-little-eye which uses high shock pressures to compensate
  • 1 0
 I live in Bellingham... No Tracer pedals a lot better then my Kona Process. Also at 6 foot I'm over the pedals and can drive the bike uphill great under load.
  • 3 1
 That contra needs to figure out how to accommodate a few more pullies in that drivetrain. Maybe there would be room for a third 3rd derailleur pulley?
  • 4 0
 All I care about is the Contra MC
  • 2 0
 Funny how we soon have bikes go in to the same price range that a small apartment would be. Thank god i have a box of crayons to draw them both.
  • 4 0
 How much is eleventytwohundred ?
  • 1 0
 A lot :-)
  • 5 1
 Ahh finally the $10,000 plus bike review we’ve all been waiting for!
  • 4 1
 None of these antiquated things have motors how we supposed to get to the top
  • 1 0
 If i was going to buy one, it would be the Commencal. Geometry looks dialled, and the price is not bad. The one I want the most out of all of these? The Deviate, that thing just looks so good.
  • 2 0
 So @mikelevy isn't among the test riders this time around? Well I guess he's mainly interested in diesel off-road trucks these days Wink
  • 2 0
 Catch me at Pinktruck for more misguided opinions and terrible takes Smile
  • 5 0
 @mikelevy: I thought it was mikes_flame_war.ca/my_hill_to_die_on.aspx
  • 2 0
 @vapidoscar: That's definitely comment gold haha
  • 1 0
 I would have expected the new Specialized Eduro to have dropped in time for this field test (3 years since the current model debuted).

Maybe they’re giving it the solo, long form review?!
  • 2 0
 Would have like to have seen the Propane Tyee, Orbea Rallon, and Specialized Enduro. All are long travel Enduro bikes claimed to pedal uphill well.
  • 1 0
 Here's the Rallon: www.pinkbike.com/news/review-orbea-rallon-m-ltd-2022.html
Enduro has been around for a long time and we've tested it and talked about it a lot.
  • 2 0
 @mikelevy: thanks for the link and taking the time to reply. Really enjoy all the field tests. You guys do an amazing job of making it entertaining and informative!
  • 1 0
 Solid list. Several bikes in here that I'm glad are getting attention, and look forward to the review. Have been interested in the Fezz and Deviate.
  • 4 0
 At last a meta review
  • 4 2
 Really interested to know how the mullets perform. My guess is the Commencal will take the win though.....
  • 4 2
 The SX is a tank , I wouldn't be surprised if it's fast going down but they're gonna bag it on everything else.
  • 3 1
 @PhoS: Max has openly stated that he doesn't care about climbing or efficiency at all. The only thing that matters to the brand is going down.
  • 2 1
 @salespunk: My point was that the SX is more of a freeride/park bike than an enduro. The AM hasn't seen an update so I guess that's why they didn't pick it.
  • 2 0
 @salespunk: what? They dont care about effeciency but max himself said "well you have to get to the top"
hence the aggressive anti squat in those bikes, Single pivot with low progression but heaps of anti squat make for a weird mix.
  • 4 1
 A bottom loading snack box huh? For if you're too pooped to eat?
  • 11 1
 Intense Poop Chute, hope it doesn’t get loose from use
  • 1 1
 @sjma: its already full of trail grit
  • 2 0
 @sjma: Ugh I wish I had thought of that while we were filming
  • 1 0
 @mikelevy:
Should have called it the dirtbox
  • 5 0
 @rich-2000: Prison pocket
  • 3 0
 Eleventy-two hundred dollars
  • 6 3
 Banshee? Knolly? Where the Canadian brands at
  • 3 0
 i think it's been quite a few years since banshee was cdn based. i believe keith is operating out of the UK?
  • 2 1
 @xy9ine: Maybe you're right. I thought they were BC based, but perhaps Keith moved out to the UK
  • 3 0
 Interested to see what you think of the Patrol and Meta
  • 1 1
 Good to see a couple high pivot bikes in there to mix things up. Must be challenging to evaluate while switching between high and low pivot bikes because it seems they require a different riding style to a certain extent?
  • 1 0
 Sorry to hijack this comment, but I've wondered the same thing about going back and forth between an o-chain and a normal ring (in my case WT elliptical) Not so much on pedalling, but on the feel/resistance of the pedals when standing. Anybody got experience and thoughts?
  • 1 0
 @dancingwithmyself: Not necessarily a hijack, here's a thread that combines our subjects..
m.pinkbike.com/forum/listcomments/?threadid=235756

Haven't tried it, but maybe the best way to test it would be to have identical long travel bikes, one with the o-chain. Run the suspension soft on both to see if you can feel the difference between them after many runs. Some people swear by it, others not so much. It probably makes a difference but might not necessarily make you faster.
  • 4 0
 That Contra is pure sex.
  • 2 0
 Commencal Meta. $5800, doesn’t crack or break, and destroys anything on trail. Excellent bikes for the money.
  • 3 0
 This years list is stacked.
  • 4 2
 “ oh the mega tower is so expensive blah blah blah blah blah” - every Pinkbike comment ever
  • 2 1
 Be nice to see an average person's review of these bikes. Would give a totally different point of view and one that is more in line with the majority of people.
  • 1 0
 Agreed. Would be a nice prize to give away! However might need to restrict height (at least) and weight (maybe), probably contravenes equal opportunity laws...
  • 5 1
 I’m an average person and my review is that they are all too expensive.
  • 3 0
 Yeah, but how are those tires?
  • 3 0
 The Contra reminds me of Brooklyn Machine Works.
  • 2 0
 DID HE SAY ELLEVENTY TWO?! holy crap Santa Cruz even had to make up a new number for their wildy overpriced bike.
  • 2 0
 Dang, PB comes out to Sudden Valley and I missed the chance for an awkward selfie with Levy.
  • 1 0
 How did we choose the bikes? Simple, they just had to be Enduro bikes...except the Patrol, which is a freeride bike, but otherwise they're all enduro bikes...
  • 3 1
 Must put the Vitus Sommet mullet in there… bike 2022 imo
  • 2 1
 kidding? its to cheap and just as good quality as Spesh/trek etc it doesnt match in price so wont be included or reviewed.
  • 2 4
 They can only have bikes that allow them to award best bike to Santa Cruz at twice the price of everything else
  • 3 2
 FEZZARI something something FONT KERNING something something GRAPHIC DESIGN barf

Am I doing it right?
  • 2 0
 I would have gone for logotype over font but other than that, you’re pretty much on the mark.

It’s now far more discreet than the last time a Fezzari bike was reviewed so they did actually take heed of the comments.
  • 2 0
 Can we all be thankful there's no shudder inducing wink in the intro?
  • 2 1
 As usual I didn’t have to scroll too far into the comments to see people whinging about expensive bikes.
  • 3 1
 You guys gonna say you like the Specialized Enduro best again? Haha
  • 1 1
 the storage under the down tube pretty much sums up Intense for me. A good idea executed in what seems to be a practical joke manner. SMH
  • 2 2
 AstonMTB has set the standard for bike reviews now. Will be a lot of people watching this looking for similarly ruthless honesty.
  • 2 0
 Odd question, but where are his reviews. I've found the pages to the competition links but not the reviews somehow. Are they piecemeal on his IG page?
  • 1 0
 @MarcusBrody: On his website, and youtube
  • 1 1
 Enduro mtb are reasonable but theres a reveiw they had not long ago where one picture showed a crack but wasnt mentioned lol. frame quality needs to be just as important as how the bike rides. brands are absolutely taking the p1ss, they know they lack quality but the current bike market is so out of control people just buy it anyway. Paul is starting to call them out and soon there will be a turn in the bike world when brands work towards trying to price themselves the cheapest as the market will be so saturated - just a time thing.
  • 4 2
 Yeah a rail, Firebird, or Giga. Maybe next time
  • 1 0
 Looks like there's a lot of dirt on the inside of the Tracer storage box. Soggy burrito anyone?
  • 2 0
 Top pic is a gnarly move. Props
  • 1 0
 Would be good to know if fox fixed the cause for high fail rate of the X2 shock
  • 1 0
 So the Patrol which everyone claimed was heavy for carbon is the lightest bike on test?
  • 1 0
 The fact that the Transition is the LIGHTEST bike in test is blowing my mind!
  • 2 0
 I'm sure its been said, but man these things are heavy.
  • 2 0
 Nice work on what is a huge and largely thankless task. Thanks
  • 1 0
 @mikekazimer You had me at eleventytwohundred !!!
  • 1 0
 I thought the $8500 La sal was an all X01 axs with envy am30 wheels?
  • 2 1
 Nomad getting a separate review?
  • 2 1
 Nomad wasn't out in time to be part of the test
  • 1 0
 Mike has lost weight...less donuts?
  • 3 0
 I heard he has a tapeworm
  • 7 0
 @Paco77: Tapeworms are great, I can eat whatever I want and my pet comes with me wherever I go. His name is Timmy the tapeworm FYI
  • 1 0
 @mikelevy do canoes have curly bars?
  • 4 0
 If they did I'd canoe all the time
  • 2 2
 I'll watch these vids, but where am I supposed to go for long-form writing now?
  • 14 0
 The library? Just kidding. There are written articles that will accompany all of the Field Test videos.
  • 1 0
 Very interested in the Intense and Patrol.
  • 1 1
 With so many races being held at ski resorts they ned to change the spelling to EnDHuro series
  • 2 5
 You all need an adult human person of slightly below average mass (188.5 LBS) testing bikes. I see the average weight of a guy in the US over 20 years old is 197.9 lbs. I'm not fat, I am 15 lbs under the average, I ride and eat cheeseburgers, and the last time I weighed 170 lbs was in 7th grade.
  • 5 0
 I'd like to see a weight distribution for all males over 20 in the US and one for mountain bikers. Probably not safe to assume average biker weight is 200. (FYI I bring the average up so I agree Kyle Straight should be the designated tester.)
  • 14 0
 I too enjoy riding and eating cheeseburgers.
  • 15 0
 Average weight of an American male isnt exactly an accurate picture of the typical mountain biker
  • 1 1
 @mikekazimer: you guys should be friends...
  • 5 0
 @arrowheadrush: e-bikers, on the other hand...
  • 4 0
 @MtbSince84: ebikers in my area definitely have a bit of a different shape than the man powered riders
  • 1 0
 Why should I buy a Megatower over the Patrol?
  • 1 0
 Bikers Edge sold their Sentinel for one because they believed it paid no penalties but felt much gooeier
  • 1 0
 As always, Commencal wins
  • 2 0
 Not YT or Canyon?
  • 2 1
 YT bikes sell anyway, canyon having quality issues... like really big mass issues at the moment on CF models.
  • 1 0
 @HeatedRotor: didn't know Canyon is at it again.

As for "They sell bikes anyway" - You do realize this test has a Santa Cruz?
  • 1 0
 Yeah, weird. I'd really have liked to see the Canyon Torque among the tested bikes.
  • 1 0
 @HeatedRotor: Care to elaborate where exactly Canyon has "quality issues"?
  • 2 1
 @Muscovir: join the spectral FB group, The Alloy insert in the CF frames are cracking, ive had 2 on the mullet model. ended up selling the 3rd frame. the 125/150 and mullet models are all effected.

They also have the stupidest headset system that flexes all over the show and grinds into the fork steerer.
  • 2 0
 @HeatedRotor: yeah wtf is up with their headsets? I had to jury rig it to use normal spacers and now the bottom piece of it just spins around. Doesn't seem like they expect their bikes to last more than a year
  • 2 0
 @Dogl0rd: Canyon are a frustrating brand, They make some amazing bikes that ride awesome but their QC is so poor. Canyon is for sure the brand i would pay more for if their frames were up to par. i cant fault the Service from Canyon AUS at all, super fast but i would rather just ride my bike than worry about what day of the week im rebuilding the bike with a new frame.

The CF headsets are a joke as they've tried to save money by using the Ebikes headset mandrill, upper is52 headsets are pathetic, i get why - in theory the headtube is stronger due to how massive the bearing load is spread compared to say a zs44.(most common upper), but Canyon were never known for headtube issues and thats usally easily worked around with a much thicker design.
  • 1 0
 @HeatedRotor: I also have paint flaking off my chain or seatstay by the axel, and the bike came poorly assembled with loose brake rotor bolts and no grease in the headset, brake bleed was also very bad. And this is the second frame they sent because the first arrived with a crack in it.

Really disappointed, but for the spec my Torque CF7 is >$1.5k cheaper than most other comparable bikes so I kept it :/
  • 1 0
 @Dogl0rd: was the 1500 less worth it now though? genuinely asking.
  • 2 0
 @HeatedRotor: it was a good deal of frustration - at least I have some experience in working on bikes. It would have really sucked for a new rider to have their front brake rotor fall off. They also would have had trouble with the brakes, but I re-bled myself.

Aside from needing to tighten some things and ship a bike back the rest is all cosmetic. The bike rides solid otherwise. Hard to say if I would do it again. That headset is such a turn off though.
  • 2 0
 @HeatedRotor: Sorry to hear that. I don't use FB so I can't look it up: Is it the inserts themselves that crack or is it the structure of the frame?

I recently bought a Torque AL and purely in terms of descending performance it's the best bike I ever owned by a longshot. Although truth be told I wasn't totally happy about the state the bike arrived in at my house. But the Canyon support was beyond awesome. Sorted things out quickly, professionally and generously.

10/10 would buy again, especially since comparable bikes from other brands are easily 1.5k€ more expensive.
  • 1 0
 @Muscovir: its not actually the frame or the insert, its the bonding between the two. - the alloy frames of the torque/spectral have been faultless in their current shape.
  • 1 0
 @Muscovir: had the same experience as you in terms of price, build, and descending capes
  • 2 3
 Not another Santa Cruz that looks the same as every other one. Surely there are other brands that make make enduro bikes that could have been included
  • 3 5
 Not enough bikes in this comparison for me, and missing some very obvious (and more readily available) brands like Trek, Specialized, Ibis, Mondraker etc. I have never even heard of Contra.
  • 3 1
 That's why we included the Contra Wink We've got the bikes that were available at the time, and we'll ALSO test the bikes you listed that we couldn't / didn't include. There is only so much time.
  • 1 0
 Is that really how you pronounce Commencal?
  • 1 0
 Sometimes
  • 1 1
 "we test the newest and most interesting machines" - where's the Structure Cycleworks SCW1 ?
  • 1 0
 Google will tell you that we've already reviewed that bike Wink
  • 1 0
 I enjoy these Field Tests. Thanks for the quality content!
  • 9 9
 I LOVE my new SC MT2!! #fanboyvibes
  • 5 7
 LMAO someone downvoted me for saying that I love my bike. LOL the hate is real.
  • 4 2
 @fredro: Snobs be hatin' on ubiquitous bikes.... Smile
  • 2 4
 Contra, Fezzari and Santa Cruz all need some beautification. Transition and Deviate are the best looking of the bunch. But if picking, I'd go for the most inexpensive.
  • 1 1
 say what you will...but dang those are some sexy steeds for sure.
  • 2 1
 No Banshee no care.
  • 1 3
 jeeeeeeeeeez am i watching joe millionaire ?! ride the bike allredy it dosnt need introduction , weve all seen them on their website 10 times allredy
  • 1 1
 Interested in absolutely zero of these bikes. Try harder.
  • 2 2
 Andorra wins
  • 4 6
 Pumped for this. Wish you guys had included the Forbidden Dreadnaught and the new Devinci Spartan.
  • 2 4
 @mikekazimer: but the field test is all about comparisons between bikes, this is what we are actually looking for (except some alien jokes of course).
  • 17 0
 @lkubica, unfortunately there will never be a 'perfect' Field Test - it's not possible to test every single bike on the market all at once, and there will inevitably be lots of 'What about XXX?' comments. We do try to get in an interesting mix of bikes, and this crop was especially fun to test.

We put a lot of time and effort into making these, and hopefully they provide some insight into the pros / cons of each bike, with some alien jokes thrown into the mix.
  • 3 1
 They can't include every possible bike. Plus some bikes like the Kavenz VHP16 would just demolish the competition and it wouldn't be fair to include them.
  • 1 0
 @mikekazimer: will you talk about how they match up with the rest of the field?
  • 2 1
 @mikekazimer: So why does every one have to include a Santa Cruz
  • 1 0
 @CM999, they don't, it just happens that Santa Cruz came out with a whole bunch of new bikes this year, so it made sense to include them.
  • 1 0
 @mikekazimer: Beta always tested a bigger fleet. Why not you guys?
  • 1 0
 @danoiz: More time on fewer bikes = better reviews
  • 3 5
 Also HUGE shout out to Mike Storm for keeping the Chuckanut trails running so good.
  • 1 4
 Strange, how he barely walks by the commencal, didn't show the flip chip, or any clips....
  • 2 0
 There's a full-length review coming that shows all the bike's details
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