Welcome to the 2023 Value Bike Field Test

Jul 5, 2023 at 16:19
by Mike Kazimer  



There's never been a better time to get into mountain biking. Prices have dropped post-pandemic, and there are lots of deals to be had with a minimal amount of hunting around. Granted, it's not all sunshine and rainbows for companies that are sitting on large stockpiles of inventory, but that's a topic for a different time.

For riders, whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned vet looking to save some cash, in many cases the bikes that used to be considered entry-level are more capable than ever. Modern geometry plays a large role in this, as do improvements in suspension, drivetrain, and brake technology.

For this year's Value Field Test we brought in five bikes, all with retail prices below $3,500 USD. Bike prices jumped up dramatically over the last few years, but things seem to be starting to return to semi-normal, and many cases the sale prices of bikes like the YT Capra or Specialized Status make them a screaming deal.

Along with those two bikes, which have 170 and 160mm of travel respectively, we also brought in the GT Sensor Comp, Vitus Mythique, and Marin Rift Zone. Those bikes fall into the trail bike category, with 130mm of rear travel for the GT, and 140mm for the Vitus and Marin.

Why mix categories? Well, these days plenty of riders are riding enduro bikes as trail bikes, and vice versa. The goal was to bring in a good cross-section of what's available at this pricepoint to highlight their strengths and weaknesses, and to determine who the ideal candidate for a specific model would be.

Testing took place in Bellingham, Washington, and Squamish, BC. The bikes were ridden on a mix of trails that were well suited to their intended use, a healthy mix of flowy singletrack climbs and descents, jumps, and berms, plus steeper, chunkier terrain that was ideal for sussing out any potential frame or component limitations.


photo
Specialized Status 160
• Travel: 160mm rear, 160mm front
• Mixed wheels
• 63.2° / 63.7° head-tube angle
• 76° seat-tube angle
• Reach: 487mm (S4)
• Chainstay length: 426mm
• Weight: 34.6 lb / 15.7 kg
• MSRP: $3,000 USD (Was on sale for $2,250)
• More info: specialized.com

photo
YT Capra MX Core 1
• Travel: 170mm rear, 170mm front
• Mixed wheels
• 64° / 64.3° head-tube angle
• 77.4° / 77.7° seat-tube angle
• Reach: 464mm (lrg)
• Weight: 36.6 lb / 16.6 kg
• MSRP: $2,699 USD (Was on sale for $2,299)
• More info: yt-industries.com


photo
Vitus Mythique 29 AMP
• Travel: 140mm rear, 140mm front
• 29" wheels
• 65.5° head-tube angle
• 77.5° seat-tube angle
• Reach: 482mm (lrg)
• Chainstay length: 445mm
• Weight: 33.8 lb / 15.3 kg
• $2,599 USD
• More info: vitusbikes.com

photo
GT Sensor Comp
• Travel: 130mm rear, 140mm front
• 29" wheels
• 65.5° head-tube angle
• 77° seat-tube angle
• Reach: 485mm (lrg)
• Chainstay length: 440mm
• Weight: 34.2 lb / 15.5 kg
• $2,600 USD
• More info: gtbicycles.com


photo
Marin Rift Zone29 XR
• Travel: 130mm rear, 140mm front
• 29" wheels
• 65.5° head-tube angle
• 77° seat-tube angle
• Reach: 485mm (lrg)
• Chainstay length: 435mm
• Weight: 34.8 lb / 15.8 kg
• $3,499 USD
• More info: marinbikes.com

Who Tested the Bikes?

photo
Dario DiGiulio
Height: 6'3" / 191cm
Weight: 175 lbs / 79.4 kg
Notes: Tech editor, the king of customization.
2022 Trail Bike Field Test photo by Satchel Cronk.
Mike Kazimer
Height: 5'11" / 180cm
Weight: 160 lbs / 72.6 kg
Notes: Managing tech editor, serial cereal eater
2022 Trail Bike Field Test photo by Satchel Cronk.
Matt Beer
Height: 5'10" / 178 cm
Weight: 170 lb / 77 kg
Notes: Tech editor, fast... and late



We'll have Value Field Test articles and videos rolling out all week, and then we'll wrap it up with a roundtable where we debate the pros and cons of all the bikes in this round of testing.

Author Info:
mikekazimer avatar

Member since Feb 1, 2009
1,695 articles

247 Comments
  • 187 3
 Really wish more companies would spec bikes with 1x12 SLX like the Vitus (or even Deore). The shift quality of these systems isn't all that much worse than Shimano's top spec groups, whereas the bikes' drivetrains specced with the lower tier Sram systems will never perform all that well.
  • 33 2
 Fezzari Delano Peak ($3500 carbon, DVO Diamond and SLX). But I would agree with you. Shimano lower tiers perform pertty flawlessly compared to lower tier Sram.
  • 38 0
 Full SLX with a XT shifter is hard to beat for sure, I've had it on an Exie for over 18 months now. Nearly every Ibis model you can get with a SLX build.
  • 67 5
 I have an XC bike with SLX and then I bought the Status with SRAM NX. Based on the Pinkbike comment section I thought it would spontaneously fall apart after 4 rides, but it has been just fine after a year of hard riding.
  • 19 4
 @jepc: If you're kind to the bike and tune it regularly I've seen them last, but based on my experience wrenching at a shop under normal mtb use the cheap Sram stuff's shift quality deteriorates quickly even with regular tuning. Not to mention that the shift quality is much worse than Deore even when new.
  • 4 1
 while i do feel the perform is good when new to new-ish I haven't had good luck with the longevity with SLX derailleurs and brake levers. With the levers I had several develop leaks and the cam wears out quick leading to play in the levers. Found the derailleurs pivots wear out quickly too. All this is in comparison the XT level stuff which while being more expensive I think is a better long term value. Unfortunately XT isn't found on factory 'budget' builds.
  • 6 3
 Same thing about brakes
  • 28 0
 I THINK one of the most common problems with NX deteriorating is the bolt that screws into the hanger and where the whole derailleur rotates on. The system develops play here pretty quickly, but you can change that with a 20€ Upgrade, as in the X01/XX1 Bolt, which is compatible and 10 minutes install. And for me it seems to have cured most problems. Although I'm riding XT/SLX now and my SO is on the Bike with NX.
  • 36 3
 Even better. Spec them with 1x11 Deore. Same range as 12 speed, but lighter, cheaper components, and easier to adjust.
  • 3 1
 @artistformlyknowasdan: So you think Shimano uses different materials or design for the brake lever pivots (or seals?) when changing from SLX to XT? Or is that a bit more of a placebo?
  • 3 0
 @bishopsmike : there are definitely different materials used and possibly construction methods. Material is easy to prove just buy weighting the components which I've done on my kitchen scale
  • 5 0
 @bishopsmike: It is definitely different materials, the lower you go down Shim's product line the more aluminium parts get replaced by either plastic or stamped steel. Ironically the steel parts tend to be pretty soft and wear faster than the anodised aluminium bits you find in XT/XTR.
  • 3 0
 @jepc: I have a Status as well, and it's obvious that shifting degrades quickly due to play at the RD pivot. I mean, it still works, but I'm regularly adjusting cable tension and careful where I shift.
  • 1 0
 @ultimatist: agree, I've had to tighten that a couple of times. It's now part of my bolt check routine
  • 10 0
 I'm bummed none of these feature the new CUES Linkglide drivetrains. The durability and hard-shift capability sounds awesome for anyone, but particularly those in the entry-level full suspension market
  • 3 0
 Honestly, we got an SX-equipped bike and it shifts just fine. And for the NX, just buy a b-bolt kit from X01. I got it for $18, and you replace the bolt for securing the derailleur to the hanger. That alone will massively improve the shifting performance of the kit.
  • 2 0
 @ultimatist: Why not just buy the b-bolt kit? You can add bling and it doesn't really cost much, and you'll fix the problem
  • 2 0
 @Weirdo12345: can’t be that significant then…
  • 1 0
 My hardtail came nx. Only issue I've had was the cassette developed play due to the use of plastic spacers between the cogs. Replaced it with a much better quality sunrace for the same price and haven't had any problems since.
  • 2 0
 @ryanandrewrogers: I reckon that will start to show up as OEM at the end of the year.
  • 2 0
 @ryanandrewrogers: That drivetrain is meant for e-bikes and Shimano markets it as e-bike specific. I don't see any manufacturer speccing it on naturaly aspirated bikes anytime soon..
  • 1 2
 But I like Gripshift!Smile
  • 6 2
 A few months back I get a new bike with full SLX 1x12 and based on the collective wisdom of the Pinkbike comments I was expecting it to be an absolutely flawless piece of equipment superior to anything SRAM makes. I guess I'll be the contrarian and say that thus far it seems like it's noticeably worse than 1x12 GX in terms of shift quality and even basic functionality, like being able to downshift more than two gears at once, which I find to be incredibly frustrating when switching between bikes.
  • 1 0
 @artistformlyknowasdan: that's probably just the XT dimples on the lever, or the plastic XTR bits. I can't believe they'd use a different cam system and materials as that would make everything MORE expensive.
  • 1 0
 @plyawn: I suspect the material or quality of construction for the lever cam is different - all I know for sure is my replacement xt levers have lasted longer than my original slx levers
  • 1 0
 @i-am-lp: It's advertised as a durable ebike drivertrain but it weighs the same as nx/gx Eagle thanks to less speeds. It should essentially outperform those mid range SRAM drivetrains in every way.

Maybe we won't see it on naturally aspirated bikes, but that would be a real shame- especially with how cheap it is!
  • 1 0
 @artistformlyknowasdan: Shimano will regularly make subtle improvements as you go up the line. A plain steel pivot pin can get their Sil Tec coating or a hard chrome finish.
It's actually baffling to me how Shimano will make slightly different parts for related components just because. One look at how many derailleur pulleys they offer, or bearing cones, blows my mind.
  • 2 0
 @succulentsausage: even betterer, spec 10 speed Deore and use a Sunrace 11-46 cassette or Microshift Advent X 11-48. I started using both, and can't say I miss 2 fewer gears at all.
  • 6 0
 bike companies could spec bikes with Shimano 11sp drivetrains. You have almost same range, the same shifting quality and ultimatly more robust drivetrain. I operate MTB tour/Rental company Portugal and I am so happy to rent bikes with 11 or 10 (linksys) drivetrain because they just don't need constant maintance and always works well... Who needs 12speed in trail riding?
I am so happy that shimano this year went less is more way
  • 1 0
 @wilsonians: For those who are interested in this offering, its one of my favorite all-mountain style bikes ever. The base build is DVO is outstanding. I've ridden all sorts of suspensions brands and now I'm a DVO fanboy. The base build with SLX, DVO, and full carbon frame is an outstanding price at $3,499.

If you swear by alloy, or are looking for even better bang for your buck keep your eyes peeled the next little while for some new redesigned alloy offerings coming from Fezzari.
  • 2 0
 @jmd07aa: If your SLX isn't giving you four gears at once you need to have it looked at. Both XT and Deore will.
  • 1 0
 Ripmo AF Deore is a perfect example of this. They should have had it in the comparison. I just Got mine From Jenson USA for 2600$. I'm selling my status 160 now.
  • 1 0
 There is no shifting difference between the Deore 12 speed, and the Deore-SLX 12-speed.

The Deore-XT shifter on the other hand has reliability issues (little spring breaks) which is not an issue on the Deore and Deore-SLX shifters.
  • 113 18
 Where’s Levy?
  • 36 0
 heard he got a job at krispy kreme
  • 69 0
 Who's Levy?
  • 10 1
 This is turning into the Liam Gallagher posts, where ever post he makes is "Call your brother".
  • 24 1
 @DizzyNinja: Why is Levy?
  • 90 0
 Everyone asks where and why, but not how's Levy
  • 29 0
 @DizzyNinja: When is Levy?
  • 25 0
 Still investigating the sinkhole at Sea Otter 2023
  • 8 0
 @DizzyNinja: What's a Levy?
  • 133 0
 @vinay: I donno, but I drove my Chevy to it and it was dry.
  • 3 1
 Why's Levey?
  • 5 0
 @vinay: I think it's an endur-bro term meaning "lever"
  • 14 0
 He's working on a write-up of an experimental gravel bike called the Scandalous Scone.
  • 16 0
 Recently he was spotted downcountry…
  • 3 0
 Which Levy?
  • 3 0
 Levy was abducted
  • 6 0
 it keeps on raining.. i think he broke
  • 1 0
 When is Levy?
  • 9 1
 He's not around in the office, that's for sure. Hope he's OK. Enjoyed your input over the years Mike, hoping for some closure at least!


Goin to keep us all in the dark forever PB?
  • 4 0
 Levy met some new friends. They came in peace they said and he promptly took them to see his leader.
  • 1 1
 When Levy?
  • 1 16
flag NYShred (Jul 11, 2023 at 8:39) (Below Threshold)
 Likely doing nothing of any value, per usual. Outside finally figured out he's on the payroll for doing nothing? You fanboys are a sad lot.
  • 2 0
 Anton Szandor LaVey?
  • 2 1
 @DizzyNinja: everyone always asks, "Where is Levy?", "Who is Levy?", but never; "How is Levy?" :/
  • 1 0
 @jcmarshall67: alliteration wins
  • 1 0
 @jcmarshall67: "Well is Levy?" is what Yoda would have asked.
  • 62 2
 For those shopping this category - throw the new Norco Fluid on your list, too. Any others under the $3K mark we're missing?
  • 55 9
 Guerilla Gravity's "The Smash" can be had for $3495 right now. That's a carbon framed, Lyrik + Deluxe Select equipped bike for less than most manufacturer's frames.
  • 26 2
 Giant Trance and Trance X 29 both under 3K.
  • 17 1
 Canyon also makes a few models: Neuron, Spectral, and Torque all have a spec'ed bike under 3k.
  • 14 3
 Rocky Mountain Instinct 10 or 30
  • 20 58
flag rockandride6 (Jul 10, 2023 at 9:40) (Below Threshold)
 I know it's a hardtail, but I'd say the Santa Cruz Chameleon is a bike that more people should consider. I don't think anyone entering mountain biking NEEDS a FS and the versatility of that bike can't really be rivaled (not to mention the warranty and support). GX, 34 Float Performance, etc. for $2,999
  • 19 0
 Propain Tyee and Spindrift can be had for 3k in alu.
  • 16 4
 @rockandride6: that depends where you live. I'd not recommend anyone learning) getting into mtb in the sea to sky get a hard tail.
  • 10 4
 Fezzari Delano Peak ($3500, carbon, DVO Diamond and SLX)
  • 10 5
 @rockandride6: I've probably got too many bikes, but the Chameleon is one I keep going back to. It's been too the bike parks, I've done a couple of XC races (badly, with the wrong tires), and it's a great platform to learn core skills on.

@kingtut87 if your only plan is enduro then fair enough, but otherwise this is a good shout
  • 8 0
 Just bought the Optic for 3k this weekend.
  • 6 0
 @rockandride6: you don’t need a full sus but 3k is enough to get a good full sus bike. For 1-2k range a hardtail is the way to go if buying new.
  • 6 0
 @KJP1230: +1 for GG's "The Smash" - if you're in the market for an indestructible 150/150 bike that can handle over-forking, be morphed into a full-blown Gnarvana, mullet or burly XC bike, they're a great deal at $3500
  • 2 0
 Such a great list and very helpful to new buyers out there!
  • 3 2
 @HankHank: the riders around here that have hardtails either end up quitting the sport or upgrading nearly immediately as there's very little terrain here that they make sense on. Cross country in the traditional sense doesn't really exist here. You have to be a good rider to ride a hardtail here.
  • 13 0
 @xciscool: I consider hard tails more of a way for experienced riders to hone their craft and experience familiar, challenging trails in a new way. A forgiving ride will allow for inevitable learning mistakes to not be painful. Currently on the bus taking my own hardtail out for a spin.
  • 9 2
 @kingtut87: If only someone had told Chromag that no one will buy their bikes!
  • 6 1
 Bird Aether 9
  • 3 6
 @xciscool: if you don’t mind getting beat to death!

Hardtails are like riding single speed, you do it for appearances, and to make things harder.

Sure, sone folks have a tighter budget too …
  • 4 0
 Chain Reaction Cycles has a sale on Nukeproof right now and the Reactor is $2949 CAD. Add shipping and its still less than 3K USD.
  • 9 1
 @sfarnum: new riders arnt the ones buying chromags, either. Much more likely that its a good, experienced rider. Someone who would notice and appreciate the difference between a high end hardtail and an entry level one.
  • 7 1
 @sanchofula: Have to disagree, not all hardtails & single-speeds are ridden for vanity. Some people are truly insane Wink

But seriously, the folks I've ridden with who are on singlespeeds / hardtails are usually annoyingly capable, and tough as nails, if they're keeping up with us on full squish bikes. SS/hardtails built for only parking lot cred aren't ridden for long Wink
  • 6 0
 @sfarnum: everyone I know with a chromag is a shredder. You don't see many/any beginners on them!
  • 3 0
 @chrod: I am just insane but not at all capable.
  • 4 3
 @rockandride6: I completely agree with you. Not only does everyone not NEED full suspension, but some people might actually prefer a hardtail.
  • 1 1
 @Mtn-Goat-13:
I've got a Instinct Alloy 30... nice bike but heavy AF at 35.8lbs for a Large totally stock. OK, take half a pound off if you remove the tubes and put sealant in the tyres
  • 1 0
 @MumblesBarn: so curious about this bike. Have you ridden one?
  • 6 0
 Last month, I got a new Canyon Spectral AL 6 (2023) on sale for CA$3299 / US$2500 (reg. CA$3999) with a build that included a GX drivetrain, Code R brakes, Lyrik and Super Deluxe Select+. I don't think there's an equivalent U.S.-market spec, but I am really happy with the value, especially compared to some of the bikes on this test.
  • 9 2
 @sanchofula: . I recently went from full sus to a trail hardtail. For me it was about simplifying the hardware, lowering weight, risk and getting back to basics of enjoying the ride. Instead of deriving excitement from smashing through stuff at warp speed, I wanted to enjoy the simple success of overcoming smaller obstacles, usually at slower speed, using a better technique. Less risk but still enjoyable and you get more headspace to take in the scenery. Those same obstacles are boring to ride on a full sus. I'll go back to a full sus eventually, however I really enjoy my rides at the moment.
  • 1 0
 stumpy evo comp alloy is currently 3500. stumpy comp alloy is 3200.
  • 1 0
 @KJP1230: I ended up getting their race build Shredd Dogg for $4000 during this sale. I couldn't believe it. A little higher than the $3500, however I'm swapping suspension (Fox Factory to DVO [on sale]) and drivetrain (Eagle X01 to Advent X) to where my net cost will hopefully be around $3200.
  • 3 1
 @dave119: 100% agree - Just built-up a Meta HT for winter slop / hillclimb duties and find I am loving it and almost riding it exclusively. Will pull the Slash out for those 'rowdy' sessions. but getting a good fix from the HT action, brushing up on my basic skills (as close as I am willing to go to my full-rigid '90s roots) and getting to grips with riding in clips - winter fun....
  • 3 0
 @dave119: Same thinking here, I can’t afford to get hurt. The HT keeps local trails challenging without resorting to the ridiculous speeds a modern FS trail bike is capable of. FS folks might go faster than me, but they aren’t having more fun.
  • 1 0
 @El-Warpo: That's surprisingly heavy for the Instinct. I might expect that from an alloy Altitude, but not their trail bike.
  • 1 0
 @rrolly: Same bikes pretty much (they both use the same frame), apart from the larger dia. fork and some slightly wider tires, the bikes are very similar. Heck, my RMB Growler hardtail weighs 35 pounds, and that's after switching out the 7 pound Suntour XCM boat anchor fork for a Pike.
I think the days of weight watching are over; anything under 35pounds is "light" in my books now.
  • 2 0
 My local Santa Cruz dealer just told me there are still Aluminum Tallboy 4s available. Less than 3k for a D-Kit Tallboy.
  • 1 0
 @rockandride6: Unfortunately, those builds are kinda shit comparatively to a lot of these other options....largely cuz of the name Santa Cruz. RS Recon fork and NX/SX?....
  • 1 0
 @wilsonians: Fair indeed. Either of those would need replacement at some point. There is also the R kit, which is $3,400. Full NX still, but with a Pike.
  • 2 0
 slayersxc17: I've owned one for the past two years, so you could potentially accuse me of bias. However I have nothing but praise for it. The geometry is kind of wild - 507mm for a large and 430mm chain stays - but I swapped to a set of PNW bars which have a 10 degree back-sweep and so the reach is more like 480mm now.

It's an absolute ripper of a fun-bike, which I think a 130mm trail bike should always aim to be. Not the fastest down the steep stuff, not the lightest and sharpest in the climbs and tech, more just the kind of bike that makes me smile and feel pumped every time I ride it. It took the 2021 trail bike of the year in MBUK and has received rave reviews in other UK publications, but has never been tested in the US from what I've seen; I guess they don't want to have to pay Pinkbike for the privilege like other manufacturers.

If you ever find yourself in MN feel free to shoot me a message for a test ride.
  • 2 0
 @MumblesBarn: awesome to hear. Almost snagged one up a few months ago. But taking a new Norco optic out tonight for its maiden voyage!
  • 1 0
 @slayersxc17: Sweet! Enjoy Smile
  • 30 6
 Where's Levy? Is he ok?
  • 12 0
 OD'd on Monster and donny's
  • 89 5
 Who knows: you'd think PB would be stoked Levy has such a strong fan base here but zilch. Nothing. A few whispered comments by Brian Park ("no HR did not fire Levy") and comment-rumor is that he's just taking badly needed time off. Team Privacy here thinks its none-ya-biz (as if Levy's not already a public figure)... but why should we just hear us chatting about it vs. PB saying "yeah, he's taking time off" or "he's not working with PB anymore...we loved his years of work here, good luck Mike".

If you check your dashboard Levy's often online, he's still ref'd periodically in the podcast, and he's still included in the PB talk show intro. I don't need Levy's address, email or phone # - and he's just another dude, but a funny and important one - Levy will forever be the guy at PB who got me through the pandemic w/ weekly podscasts. For PB to just be mum is silly to me - Levy' was a public figure, who have following and in my view PB should just say whats up so ppl don't speculate for months on end in every comment section and how is a bunch of us rambling on about Levy not-private or helpful vs. PB just saying wtf is up?
  • 33 2
 @Mtn-Goat-13: Love Levy. To me he’s the spiritual core of PB. I’m pretty sure he’s just on a vacay.
  • 13 0
 @Mtn-Goat-13: they don’t address it in order to get more comments and clocks on articles.
  • 18 2
 @paulwatt: I hear ya my man. I love hearing it. Everyone's got their way of seeing things but Levy's the face of PB and the voice of podcast) to me. Still love Kaz and Henry's doing a great job at hosting the pod I think. Dario's a fine new addition (with sharp obs & critique skills) but...Levy is missed. Feels like PB has a big hole in its chest right now.
  • 8 1
 @xciscool: That's ironic because I've mostly tuned out more than usual lately w/ his absnce which means 90% less clicks from me. Oh well... more riding to do.
  • 41 5
 @Mtn-Goat-13: Here me out,
Lets say youre a reluctant public figure, like you started getting small time famous being a dork on a super niche website about grown ass adults riding bikes in the woods for fun. Youd never expect that to happen, and you prolly never thought one bit about the ramifications if it did.
Now youre a big fish, in a real small pond, really small when you start to think about how tiny the sea-to-sky is, and man, you can hardly go for a ride (which is prolly your straight up passion) without being noticed, talked to, asked for pics, blah blah, you get it.
You'd just want to fade away into the background, and hes prolly doing everything he can to escape it most of the time.
Levy seems like a reluctant celebrity, Henry too, Kaz seems like its water off his back, but hes not working hard to be "on" hes just who he is.
Then, just when youre trying your hardest to blend in, more internetters are yelling about how they want info, they want to know where he is, why dont we have more info about his shoe size, or bald spot, or shirt collar size (its an exaggeration, but you get it right?)

Listen, we arent owed anything, big props to the guys and gals who run, and work this gig. Theres sometimes that I wish I was doing it, but theres times I get to keep it as my passion and not my job.
Hope all the staff is out living their best lives, dont listen to any of our non-sense, and keep churning out silly entertainment. You guys are great.

Levy, hope youre out there looking for aliens, pedalling your under packed gravel bike along a lonely stretch of dusty road, headed to the next motel 8.
  • 1 0
 Maybe he's gone digging with Billy Thackray.
  • 4 2
 @onawalk: @onawalk: I weirdly agree - and disagree respectfully. I can see all your points and even nod to them. Levy had to be on camera tons & do tests and prob 350 other things you didn't list. Lots to think about here and yet - PB could still just say wtf, diplomatically - and that would be easy & non-invasive like all these comments (mine included) actually are. I only watch a snip of video here and only a blip of that is Levy / Kaz / field test etc. (vs. the podcast which was my Monster Energy Audio til Levy left) so I'm referring to Levy's status as just-a-voice-on-the-pod or online article author on PB mostly ...and I don't buy celebrity whatsoever (even when I meet them - just people and celeb worshippers are lame).

Most biz's offer basic diplomatic and usually vague statements when a well known public figure needs a break or is axed so it just feels unsettled and questioanably bizarre to me that PB hasn't made generic statement about it. But how much more "invasive" would it be for PB to inform Bike World he's chilling or left than to have 100's of BS comments (mine included) in so many articles here wondering wheres Levy, what Levy, why Levy and Levy Levy? (And in fact I think you & I may have already had this debate 34 times already).

Still - I can see your points, yet still don't agree w/ the PB radio silence. And I also hope Levy's living his dream life getting his curling fix, birdwatching, cribbage with nursing home great-aunts, scanning the skies at endless human aircraft mislabeled as aliens, and soaking up quiet mornings on the interstate overpass sipping a hot cup of monster energy fizz.
  • 1 0
 @Mtn-Goat-13: Yeah, is Levy on any of the socials? Insta, etc...? I don't really use those, but was hoping that if he is posting on them, and other PB users follow him on those channels, then maybe they'd have some updates they could pass along to us on here. I think people would be less curious/suspicious if it weren't for the way that Outside has consolidated/cut staff at most of the publictions in their portfolio without any sort of public announcement from either party, so people are bound to be worried if one of their favorite writers/presenters dissapears without a trace. All it would take is some reference to an "extended vacation" or "he's on a 3mo sabbatical", but silence tends to get people worried as it smacks of corporate HR policy.
  • 1 1
 @thekaiser: Dunno - I think he was but I don't follow any any pro riders on social media b/c its all the same - I can watch that n films / world cup, redbull, whatever. He mentioned several times he stopped using insta & I don't blame him.

Ditto all that w/ Outside / corporate style. Agreed - a simple "Levy's on vaycay" or "decided to move on" - whatever, would be better than all this BS chatter (I'm a key player in it, minus any conspiracy junk.) I'm a lightweight Levy User anyway - not consuming all the vids & everything, but was a podcast junkie til he evaporated and hey, I don't worship anyone...not even Levy...just a guy. But I enjoyed his humor, podcast style, questions, topics and the articles I read. I'm not gone but it seems sad here w/o Levy now.
  • 3 1
 @Mtn-Goat-13: JFC, they have addressed this in a semi-recent podcast post. Dude is on vacation. Takes one every year and people flip out when he's not around. He's still on the intro to the PB YouTube show.
  • 2 1
 @BigHerm: This one's different - last pod he was on was April 6 or 7 (and yeah I've been counting)...and not a peep since. But people have made your comment several times. Saw he's still on that intro, he's been name dropped a few times in the pods but nothing formal from PB (as if that's somehow a big issue). A simple PB statement would be less invasive than all this speculation & chatter tho, thats for sure.
  • 2 1
 @BigHerm: I listened to this cast but...musta missed whatever you're linking it for. Do tell... BK is always a riot, but I obviously missed something
  • 4 0
 @Mtn-Goat-13: RTFComments
  • 2 1
 @Mtn-Goat-13: the beauty is we get to respectfully disagree.

but

we can agree on
PB and Levy dont owe us any sort of explanation, we just "want" one, as a form of closure
The PBers (those that work for PB) seem to be decent people, and some of the most reluctant celebrities ever
Pinkers, we can be a bit too much sometimes, speaking for all of us
Everyone deserves to have control of their own privacy, and we should all learn to respect that....
  • 4 0
 @Mtn-Goat-13: Another big PLUS for Dario is he is a tall tester. No more people deciding between a medium and large frame. But someone who needs and XL and can call out their seat angles/pedaling performance while seated.
  • 5 1
 @Mtn-Goat-13: you sound psycho and long winded. Leave the other half of your parasocial relationship alone
  • 1 2
 @pargolf8: You have no clue who I am or anything about but I won't downvote you anyway. Its just words on a screen - get back to mowing lawns for the neighbors
  • 2 1
 @minesatusker: Agreed - haven't been following all of it but his obs have been pretty good, well spoken & dudes got wit galore
  • 20 3
 I have an assumption that none of these bikes are valuable.
Assumption cause I can speak for only two of the list, since I owned them.

The main issue IMO is that industry injects via marketing to average customer’s mind that value is a mix of a lower price and a [still] kind of good/big/cool brand. While it is certainly not.

Value doesn’t come from paying less, it comes for getting more for the same amount of earned cash; and by more I mean tangible things, not facts that the “same” bike is ridden by a fastest pro or the brand has other expensive bikes which are actually good.

If the bike has a cheapest headset or wheels as tough as lasagna running a paper-thin tires, or creaking bearings on the first week, or too small dropper length fit its size, or customer care doesn’t give a sh*t about you – it’s not valuable, regardless how cheaper it is in comparison.

Going for value one might sacrifice wider ranger of suspension or geometry adjustments and latest tech inventions but never a reliability and trustworthiness. Reliability of the whole system, meaning each single part of it, including company’s way of doing business with customers.

Perhaps (never owned one - can’t judge) Santa Cruz is more valuable then any of these listed bikes, considering the warranty, spec choices (on higher end) and praised customer support.

What I mean to say with this message is that I hope that PinkBike will address value properly, considering how seriously industry actually takes articles written here.

Thank you.
  • 14 0
 The concept of Price vs. Value is something that many have to learn the hard way.
  • 1 0
 @dsciulli19: True. While manufacturers should be responsible for their claims. Both things are out of this world sadly, which does mean that those who “get it” should be at least honest about it.
  • 3 0
 @dsciulli19: and reviewers should translate their marketing slang to real-life meanings Smile Each year reviewers seem to make more and more compromises at this. PB might be one of the best ones still, though. Again, as long as readers/riders value it and stand for what’s important for them.
  • 4 0
 I think the word choice for a roundup like this is a minefield. Value/budget/cheaper. No doubt the comments section would loudly argue the latter two don’t apply to a bike over $2,500 USD. Everyone’s definition of ‘budget’ differs too. Sometimes they just need to pick a range of bikes and the least offensive descriptor.
  • 11 0
 I'll echo this.

While on the surface my Commencal Supreme appeared to be a good value (good spec, good performance, good price), the subsequent two frame failures and the eventual warranty showdown for the ages proved otherwise.

If I paid myself my hourly wage for the amount of time I had to spend fighting with them about warranty, I easily could have paid $1000 more & bought a bike from a more reputable manufacturer that 100% stood behind its products.
  • 10 0
 Value Bike Comparison is my favorite Pinkbike review, looking forward to it!
  • 9 3
 @IsaacO: Tallboy being a prime example. A lot of the Pisgah (NC) area riders have dropped down from big enduros to the Tallboy (and similar) and are wrecking the uphills and downhills. Unless there's a ton of rock / roots & chunder on the majority of the downhills, the enduro rigs can be overkill (and I know b/c that's my main rig) whereas 90-95% of most trails are just dirt even if steep as hell and hence, all that travel & gear is often unused
  • 6 3
 yeah but you can just put lighter tires and ad susp pressure and get a trailbike like feel on an enduro bike. Most of the problems uphill and sluggishness comes from the tires and firmer susp setup does a lot to make a bike more lively.
  • 8 0
 @spaced: I could put XC tires and max out the air pressure in my heavy ass enduro bike and it wouldn't even come close to feeling as good as my spur on average trail rides. While I've taken my spur to the bike park and it actually gets by quite well believe it or not. The variety in capability in bikes now days is fantastic and if it were me who only had 3500 to spend...id want to see what the 3500 can get me across different categories as someone who only has 3500 to spend probably isn't buying multiple bikes, so they have decide what they want their primary ride experience to be like.
  • 2 0
 @spaced: do you have a real-life experience of what you've described?

160-180 travel is still as much even when stiffer. Saving ±150 grams on a tire still keeps your dinner plate of a cassette there. HTA doesn't get steeper either. At least not on these "valuable" bikes where adjustments are present for the sake of more marketing words Smile

But I'm not disagreeing with you; curious to hear if that has ever helped you for real.
  • 4 1
 @Velosexualist: I doubt they do have experience as there's a 10-15 pound Gap between light trail bikes and enduro bikes and that's not something air pressure is gonna change.
  • 5 1
 I think the “All-Mountain” category really is what most people are looking for. Think Ripmo, Bronson, or Stumpjumper evo. I loved my Ripley AF but I got sick of bottoming out the rear so much, I think I’ve bottomed out my Bronson 1 time.
  • 3 0
 I thought the cool thing in Pisgah was Ranger with a progressive coil. Man I’m biking all wrong!
  • 2 0
 @spaced: I actually agree - and I do this (YT capra w/ switchoffs being 180 fork for DH/park and DH casing tires w/ cush and coil shock) or 160 Lyrik and trail tires w/ air shock...about 5-6 lbs lighter. OFten I'm too lazy to make the switch though, but the heavier setup still bombs trails, esp rowdier ones, just fine. Its fun to play around w/ all that.
  • 1 0
 @slayersxc17: So werid - you talking about Revel Ranger - and do those come w/ prog-coil or is this an inside joke w/ all that (I dunno!) You seeing these or have buds w/ them? I tried a prog-coil recently but for me, that's what air is for - and easier to tune (tho the small bump comliance w/ coil is alwyas nice). The pop to it just doesn't feel like coil, wasn't my jam. Do tell.
  • 1 0
 @Mtn-Goat-13: Think that he’s referring to the area being heavily dependent on local fads. Riding scene is pretty rad there though. I preferred a long travel trail bike there as the climbs are mostly rough where a longer travel bike gets more traction and a steep seat tube angle is more comfortable.
  • 1 0
 i've been riding pisgah since Dec and I agree. My Sentinel was overkill for 95% of it. even my slack hardtail feels like too much bike most of the time. I think a 140 trail bike would be about the max anyone would really need.
  • 2 0
 @dualsuspensiondave: No clue what you mean - what does the "area being heavily dependeing on local fads" means. What are local fads? What is heavily dependent? And what area - Pisgah is massive, from Brevard east 150 miles over to Boone. Honest questions & very different riders all across that region. Having ridden here since 1991 I can easily say the majorty of bikes & riders I know around here just buy bikes, try out different things, have beers & fun, and aren't pretentious or endlessly fad-driven. That's not to say its not out there or trying various things out is the only way to ride, but I'm not seeing what you mean.

But ditto on that longer travel. I mostly use a 180 fork (and 50mm riser) for just about everything though the 160 fork occasionally gets in the mix. Even then my buds on 120/130 and 120/140 are still pillaging 95% of the downhills because shy of super rowdy park riding like Sugar (or select super rocky trails) most of the surfaces are 90-95% dirt.
  • 2 0
 @Mtn-Goat-13: eh. that sounds disingenuous. by pisgah most people mean the trails between asheville and brevard. also, there's definitely trends there in the bike scene like there is anywhere else. it's a nice area, and the trails are great, but come on man.
  • 1 0
 @Mtn-Goat-13: revel ranger and transition spur are run around here a good bit with a progressive spring. Mainly cane creek with their spring, I mean they are local, I have one for my 140/120 trail bike. I usually ride air just because of the amount of gravel grinding I do.
I believe on revels website you can upgrade to real snazzy coil.
  • 1 0
 @slayersxc17: Gotcha... still haven't seen a Revel anywhere tho but Roger alla that.
  • 1 0
 The point isn't greater Pisgah national Forest versus Pisgah district, everyone knows that. My question was about the scene (Brevard or not) being "heavily driven by local fads" - Which is a fully legitimate phrase to question. And that might be completely true – I'm asking an honest question but you're latching on to a regional part that is irrelevant to that. But I've been riding here for 30+ years and not seeing the "driven by local fads" part - So what I'm asking is that if I'm wrong about that, hit me with some facts. Doesn't have to be a pissing match. I'm happy to be wrong
  • 2 0
 @Mtn-Goat-13: I believe that local fad is now to ride e-bikes where ever the heck you want. The coil is fun, but you’re right definitely not quite as tunable, at least for this novice mechanic. The great thing is the terrain around here allows really any type of bike.
Shuttle Bennett over and over again, or hammer all the gravel on a cyclocross and mix in some single track. Under bike or over bike, coil or air, I’m super pumped to live and ride in this area. And now Wolf Ridge is making a bike park!!!!
  • 1 0
 @IsaacO: The gap between light trail bikes and light enduro bikes is closer to five pounds.

@Velosexualist : My current rig is a 170/180 Niner WFO that I had originally built up at 36 pounds. Changing the wheels, tires, and upping the psi made a massive difference in climbing speed.
  • 9 0
 How about the Ibis Ripley AF or Ripmo AF?
  • 3 0
 The cheapest AF is $3900. I love my ripley af though.
  • 2 0
 @grnmachine02: You can buy a Ripmo AF Deore Build for $3599 apparently
www.ibiscycles.com/bikes/ripmo-af
  • 7 0
 It was a pretty clear winner in the category a couple years back, and it seems like a good idea to bring back the old champs to see if anything has surpassed them. It’s still my go to recommendation for anyone in this price point.
  • 1 0
 @dsciulli19: Well, that's awesome then. I obviously cannot read


edit:// When I bought mine all I could get was the slx
  • 6 1
 April and May of this year seemed to see the best values in memory as extra stock was sold off at a discount. Prices have come up a fair amount now. The Spesh looked great until I saw a SRAM drivetrain. Honestly, Deore 10 speed and a Sunrace 11-46 or Microshift Adventx 11-48 are just so good, they should be the default value spec. Just my $.02
  • 9 1
 How is that Marin a grand more then the Vitus?
  • 13 0
 Gold chain man, gooooollllddd
  • 9 0
 Not consumer direct. Every hand the bike passes through needs a markup to take a cut.
  • 2 0
 @rickybobby19: Is bikesonline.com not consumer direct?
  • 1 0
 @tacofeet: No. They don’t even touch the bikes they sell.
  • 7 0
 Capra Core 1 is currently $1,999USD
  • 5 0
 That's insane value. And the larges are in stock!
  • 3 0
 Super pumped to see the Status 160 on here. I've got three other "more expensive" bikes including a HT2 and Stumpy Evo in my stable but for general shredding, this thing cannot be beat. The bike is an absolute great time. I am sure its going to get knocked for pedaling at 63.7 degrees but for value, it cannot be touched.
  • 3 0
 I'm really happy with where trail bike geo is settling. 65.5 degree HA is basically me sweet spot. I'd like to see some manufacturers offer a slightle slacker seat angle to make covering distances and undulating terrains more comfy, but other than that the current geo is dialed.
  • 3 0
 I'm rooting for the Mythique here lol. Still riding my 2020 Mythique based off the favorable PB review back in Feb 2020. It's been an awesome all around trail bike and I've now upgraded the fork, shock, brakes, and dropper. Really love the value Vitus brings.
  • 1 0
 Great you like the frame
  • 6 1
 No Levy? By gosh! It was sure to be Kaz with the angle of those saddles. #watts
  • 2 0
 yup, and every single one is slid all the way forward. they could all have steeper actual seat tube angles...
  • 2 0
 @shredddr: Must be more straight up, straight down testing. I can speak from experience and say that setup is no fun on mellow trails; leads to taint and wrist pain. I could see it on the 160/170 bikes here; but the batch of 130-140 not so much. I know it says they were tested on a variety of trails but the story of every bike needing a steeper STA is getting old.
  • 2 0
 Whenever I ride my Status 160, I feel as if I'm more perched on top of the bike, rather than sitting in it. I never feel like I'm one with the bike, which I feel on some other bikes.

Looking at all these pictures, it looks like the Status has a higher standover height, could that be what I'm feeling?
  • 3 0
 Might be on a size too small
  • 1 0
 High BB, low stack or a combination of both would do that. No idea if that's true for the Status though. (Edit: The Staus has normal stack and BBH measurements, so maybe something else is happening).
  • 1 0
 @ashmtb85: I'm on a S5, or XL, and I'm 188cm. I find the bike a little too big actually, I normally ride Large sizes
  • 1 0
 @BeaverCreaker: interesting seems like the right size for you. I have an s2 and feels a little small to me even though it's my recommended size. Try higher rise bars they will help. I ride with 60mm risers. Also you could try running more sag.
  • 6 0
 YT all the way!
  • 6 0
 That model is down to $1,999 as of this moment.
  • 3 1
 Marin Rift Zone XR, Vitus Mythique and the new Norco Fluid were on my shortlist at the beginning of 23 but went with a custom build trail hardtail with some really good parts and frame, no regrets by far.
  • 2 0
 I hate to get on here and say something nice but I kinda like the bikes they picked. They're not all shop monsters, they're affordable-ish and they're unique. Looking forward to the articles.
  • 1 0
 I'd really like to see some of the value bikes tested be the ones with actual different components. Oh good, another test with 12 speeds, Z1s, and Pikes! Just like everything else. But with the Rift Zone at least, there was an option to try X Fusion suspension with the lowest spec model. Sure it's a QR141 rear end, but they have a kit to change it over. Plus the Rift Zone 1 has one of the best colourways out right now with the blue and orange model.
  • 4 0
 Finally, we will get a legit review of a Status 160 from pinkbike. The prior entries were lack luster...
  • 1 0
 In a value comparison, price differences this big should be compensated by upgrades to the reviewer's liking to arrive at the same price for all bikes. Otherwise you're just comparing Oranges to (I don't know another MTB brand that's also a fruit..)
  • 2 0
 Fire sale bikes should be included in this test since 3k right now buys you a lot of different bikes.

Or maybe PB needs to do another field test called the "Fire Sale Field Test"
  • 3 0
 What we really want from this review is the ankle crushing slow-mo huck to flat vid... everything else is secondary.
  • 2 0
 I was just wondering, “what ever happened to the Field Tests” and boom. Looking forward to seeing PB’s thoughts on a few of these rigs.
  • 1 0
 Just demo'd a spesh status 160 at Killington bike park- for $2.25-3k that's a heck of a bike. The only trail it felt somewhat inadequate for was the DH race track, but even then it held its own plenty well to clear the gaps
  • 2 0
 The Status should be the winner here… if the NX lasts through the testing. Those T9 Butchers are going to grip like crazy.
  • 1 0
 I think the “budget” FS bike space is easily the most interesting segment in MTB right now. The level of bike one can get for $2500 is pretty astonishing provided you’re ok with aluminum frames.
  • 3 0
 man those are some real value builds
  • 1 0
 This will be interesting, once they sort out their pick they should test that against last years winner and see if it stacks up against the Norco.
  • 2 0
 Dario is claiming he is 5 lbs lighter in North America, but 5 lbs heavier in the rest of the world: CONSPIRACY!!!
  • 3 0
 "Was on sale for $X"....also known as "MSRP should be"
  • 2 0
 Just bought the YT Capra Core 1 for my daughter on an even better sale for $1999, super screaming deal!
  • 1 1
 Seems like they are missing an opportunity with some bikes like the 951 series by INTENSE or the Fezzari and Commencal bikes. Pretty lame only having a few models in a value test.
  • 3 0
 The field test of bikes that 99.9% of us should actually be riding.
  • 2 0
 Wake me up when the $15,000 bikes are here. /s
  • 2 0
 Right? Flippin’ peasants…
  • 1 0
 2 of em have shocks that go sideways and 3 of em have shocks that go up and down.
  • 1 0
 The last 3 look like the same bike on paper. Interested to see if they feel different in the test
  • 1 0
 Stoked to see the Marin - spec looks awesome for the price, would love to know how the suspension platform rides.
  • 2 0
 YT crushes this lot.
But Propains…
  • 1 0
 I can tell who the winner will be just by looking at the position of the seat on the rails
  • 1 0
 where all haters who screams that you cannot bike nowadays for appropriate price
  • 1 0
 When, Pray Tell are you posting the Specialized Status review? It seems to have gone missing.
  • 1 0
 Rift Zone seems to have a lot higher price than the others.
  • 5 0
 The Riftzone is also available in $2400 and $1800 versions.
  • 1 2
 Jesus guys be honest. You mixed categories because you couldn't get 5 enduro bikes in time. The test makes no sense but at least be honest.
  • 1 0
 Just looked at the Vitus site and the tested model is sold out too.
  • 1 0
 @BenLow2019: maybe wasnt at the time. No idea. It's just a weird comparison.
  • 6 0
 I dont think they need to have identical travel to have a test. We all live in different places with different terrain, so just because 2 people are looking for a bike and have 3k to spend, doesnt mean that they need the same amount of travel
  • 2 0
 It’s not a travel test, but it is a “value test.”

Most people in this price range will be able to get one bike for everything. This will, hopefully, give them a better idea of how the bike rides/ intended types of riding terrain versus guessing with your wallet…

I actually think it’s a great idea. Even better that they’re testing trail bikes in Bellingham.

Last time they tested in BC and claimed the trail bikes weren’t very good, because they couldn’t ride down double blacks with wooden features.
  • 1 0
 @Saidrick: I ride my 140/130mm trail bike down whistler gnar all the time, including wood features. For a bike at these prices to be good value it needs to last longer than the 'I'm just getting into mountain biking' phase.
  • 1 0
 @kingtut87:

Being able to afford one bike and being new to mountain biking are not the same thing.

But to give you a better idea of what I am talking about: Listen to Levy talk about how the ibis mojo 4 wasn’t very good in BC ( when descending down the “pointy bits”) then go watch/ read the other reviews of the Mojo4 , in Bellingham ( Freehub) and Marin ( Bike magazine) and they have nothing but good things to say about it.
  • 1 0
 @Saidrick: magazine based in squamish has a different opinion of what good value is? I'm not shocked. People in different places will place different demands on their bikes and have different expectations. I'd be disappointed if they didn't.
  • 1 0
 @kingtut87:

At the end of the day, the geographical differences in terrain don’t seem to get translated into reviews very well.

I am pretty happy that Pinkbike is testing in multiple locations, so that those differences can be fleshed out better. Because what makes a good bike up there(BC) and in other places can be very different bikes. Horses for courses…
  • 1 0
 nvm. no delete comment option. ha
  • 1 0
 They side profile of the vitus and the GT sure look similar.
  • 1 0
 Hopefully spesh updates seat angles soon.
  • 1 0
 Should have thrown a Ripmo AF in there as well. Amazing bike.
  • 1 1
 I'm surprised you guys don't have Christina test bikes too
  • 2 0
 The test bikes are larges.
  • 2 1
 Where is Leavy?
  • 2 3
 No one cares dude. why are you so concerned about another mans whereabouts? He does absolutely nothing at PB/Outside. You like internet personalities? Go follow the Kardashians to get your fix.
  • 3 2
 Sup carbon pussies
  • 1 0
 29 is dead
  • 1 0
 My favorite color is ham
  • 3 4
 464mm reach on the large Capra still blows my mind
  • 1 0
 YT’s large is a medium for everyone else
  • 6 0
 It's good for people in between M/L who don't like overly long bikes. I liked the long trend at first but I think we went too far with this and with some longer bikes I suffered on some trails. So I'm glad this one is shorter. It fits me perfectly at 179cm
  • 1 0
 @spaced: I like that when I got a 2018 Capra I didn't have to choose between medium and large. at 5'10", I was right in the middle of the recommended height range for the large and it was perfect.
  • 1 1
 Superposition Levy?
  • 8 10
 130/140 being in the same test as a 170/170 seems a little unfair to me
  • 3 1
 Even with the shorter travel, some bikes can still hold their own against longer travel rivals.
  • 2 1
 Long travel, short reach on the YT

The three 130/140 bikes look very close in geometry.

Also -- no short-link suspension designs in this comparison, interesting. All Horst except the Rift Zone.
  • 10 0
 "Why mix categories? Well, these days plenty of riders are riding enduro bikes as trail bikes, and vice versa."
  • 2 3
 @eight-n-burly: the reality is "we could not get 5 cheap bikes in time for the test" and what you are quoting kinda reads like an excuse
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