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Stuff Reviews :: Bicycles
Issue 151 Stuff Review: Commencal Surpreme & Surpreme DH Issue #151
Here's a gravity-fed two-for-one. Justin rides two flavors of the Commencal Surpreme. by Justin Steiner
 
Issue 150 Stuff Review: Transition TransAM Issue #150
Transition Bikes of Ferndale, Washington, believes that riders should have an option that returns them to a simpler and more basic feel of mountain biking. by Adam Lipinski
 
Issue 150 Stuff Review: Kona Abra Cadabra Issue #150
Justin climbs aboard the revised version of the "backcountry" Kona Abra Cadabra. by Justin Steiner
 
Issue 150 Stuff Review: Gary Fisher Rumblefish Issue #150
I like technical trails. I like bikes. So the Rumblefish, marketed as a "29er Technical Trail" bike, seemed to be something I'd want to throw a leg over. by Eric McKeegan
 
Issue 150 Stuff Review: KHS XTC 535 Issue #150
Lee hops aboard the KHS XCT 535, a middle-of-the-road version of this longer-travel cross country full suspension bike. by Lee Klevens
 
Issue 149 Stuff Review: GT Marathon Carbon Expert Issue #149
The Marathon Carbon Expert, the base model of the four-bike Marathon line, features 100mm of front and rear travel. by Shannon Mominee
 
Issue 149 Stuff Review: Felt Nine Race Issue #149
The 2010 Nine Race is a third-year 29er from a company that prides itself on meticulous design. by Matt Kasprzyk
 
Issue 149 Stuff Review: SuperCo Charger Issue #149
The Charger's main intended uses are dirt jumping trails, parks, and street shredding. SuperCo's foundation and design roots shine through on one of the best-riding hardtails I've ever thrown a leg over. by Sean Methven
 
Niner W.F.O. Issue #148
Many of you may be familiar with the WFO 9, as Niner has been showing this bike at Interbike for the last couple of years. In many ways, this bike has dual appeal; long-travel 26" riders may be intrigued by a 29er that meets by Justin Steiner
 
Santa Cruz Tallboy Issue #148
Maurice hops on the carbon fiber 29" Santa Cruz Tallboy for a nice test. Read what he has to say about it. by Maurice Tierney
 
Carver Killer B Issue #147
The 650B, or 27.5", wheel size is something relatively new in mountain bikes. The 650B Carver Killer B seemed perfectly at ease in a variety of cross country environments. by Karen Brooks
 
Rocky Mountain Altitude 29 Issue #147
This bike would make a killer all day backcountry explorer, technical trail bike, or Super D racer. A bike like this would be pretty hard to beat for all-around use. by Eric McKeegan
 
Giant XTC 29er 2 Issue #147
Giant has entered the 29"-wheel game with three XC hardtails for 2010. Riders looking to step up from their first mountain bike or wanting to try a 29"-wheeled bike should take a serious look at the XTC 2. by Shannon Mominee
 
Pivot Mach 5 Issue #146
The Pivot Mach 5 has a lot going for it: an incredibly plush suspension, great pedal feel, all-arounder geometry, and a stiff, well-made frame. by Karl Rosengarth
 
Norco Jubei 1 Issue #146
The Norco Jubei 1 is a 29er hardtail with Pacific Northwest attitude. If you're looking for a fun, comfortable 29er that isn't afraid of nasty technical sections, then the Jubei 1 is for you. by Andrew Crumpler
 
Specialized Epic Expert Carbon Issue #145
Racers and riders looking for one hell of a fast race machine should consider the Epic Expert Carbon. The payoff for experimenting with suspension is a lightweight, efficient bike that climbs like a champ. by Shannon Mominee
 
Turner Sultan Issue #145
This bike should appeal to riders with a preference for quick steering and higher speed in rough terrain, and the dw-link should appeal to just about everyone who likes suspension. by Eric McKeegan
 
Trek Top Fuel 9.8 Issue #144
The Top Fuel lives up to its billing. This is a high performance machine that's built for going fast. The Top Fuel combines high efficiency pedaling with a high performance, race tuned suspension. by Karl Rosengarth
 
Singular Cycles Swift Issue #144
I've taken the Swift on Boston area trails and killer singletrack in northern Vermont, and I haven't found a weakness. For the type of riding that I do—long trail rides—it's perfect. by David Alden-St.Pierre
 
Gary Fisher Roscoe 2 Issue #144
Overall, I think Fisher hit their target well. This is a bike you can pedal all day long, while delivering 140mm of supple, predictable, and supremely competent travel. by Justin Steiner
 
Salsa Cycles Fargo Issue #143
With the Fargo, Salsa is attempting to walk the tightrope between rigid mountain bike and touring bike-something they are aptly calling an adventure touring mountain bike. by Justin Steiner
 
Haro Beasley Issue #143
With Haro's 2009 offering of the 650B Beasley 1x9, a 650B riding experience is now available to those who are disenchanted by a custom-build price tag. by Sarah Hansing
 
Scott Genius Issue #143
A high-end bike we have here, but with something to offer that you can't get anywhere else: zero to six inches of travel in a very light package. by Maurice Tierney
 
Diamondback Mission 3 Issue #142
As one could guess, the rougher the better for this bike. The big tires, stiff front end and well-damped Fox fork goaded me into picking the bad line or stuffing it hard into a rough corner. by Eric McKeegan
 
Everti 29R Issue #142
The 29R lived up to my expectations of what a titanium frame should feel like: vibration-damping, responsive, solid, and light. It has a compliant, all-day ride quality that provided me with endless comfort. by Shannon Mominee
 
Jeff Jones 3D Spaceframe Issue #141
This is the kind of bike that turns the heads of both riders and casual observers, with its graceful lines masterfully executed in titanium, but this bicycle is about much more than good looks. by Karen Brooks
 
Commencal Meta 6.2 Issue #141
The Meta 6 is classified as a marathon downhill/enduro bike. For me, this translates into a bike that is tough enough for the tortures of bombing down hills, but that also pedals uphill decently. by Adam Lipinski
 
Ellsworth Evolve Issue #141
The Ellsworth Evolve is the company's ground-up foray into the 29er world of cross-country mountain bikes, designed to ride similarly to their highly regarded 26"-wheeled models. by Michael Tierney
 
Eastern Woods Research OWB29er Issue #140
Compared to the other 29ers that I've ridden, the EWR has a decidedly sporty nature. The OWB29er's handling is well-mannered, yet there's a playful streak that's available when you choose to tap into it. by Karl Rosengarth
 
Mongoose Otero Issue #140
No two ways about it, this is a lot of bike for the money. The frame is worthy of a few upgrades in the future. Entry-level full suspension just got easier to afford. by Eric McKeegan
 
Yeti Cycles AS-R Alloy Issue #140
The AS-R is Yeti's cross country race offering with 3.89" of single-pivot rear travel. The AS-R provides a smooth, fast ride with a lot of control, and it pedals efficiently. by Shannon Monimee
 
Yuba Mundo Issue #139
The Mundo cargo/utility bike has a gross capacity of 440lbs. and a well-positioned rack, making it easy to properly distribute the load for optimal handling. by Harry Geyer
 
Specialized Stumpjumper Pro Issue #139
It was a real blast to rail down more open, loose, rocky trails, and this is where the suspension gained that sought-after bottomless feeling, and the bike came closest to greatness. by Karen Brooks
 
Pivot Mach 429 Issue #139
Chris Cocalis of PIvot said that his goal was to build a bike that is stiff, responsive, and handles really well. And, I have to say, he certainly hit the mark with the Mach 429. by Justin Steiner
 
Redline D660 Issue #138
I found the D660 to be a great do-it-all bike from riding on trails, to more daring stunts and racing. Kudos to Redline for creating a unique, innovative, and appealing 29er. by Andrew Crumpler
 
Lapierre X-Race 300 Issue #138
Lapierre's X-Race 300 is a fun and capable cross-country machine. Its firm platform climbs and descends like a champ. by Shannon Mominee
 
Steelwool Tweed Issue #138
Steelwool has created a very utilitarian bike, ready to carry you to the coffee shop or coast to coast. The traditional good looks are backed up with solid geometry and tubing selection. by Eric McKeegan
 
Trek Remedy 9 Issue #138
The relatively light weight of the Remedy 9 really helped make this a great all-around machine. Ride-wise the Full Floater rear suspension resulted in one of the plushest rides I've had in a long time. by Maurice Tierney
 
Black Cat Custom Hardtail Issue #137
I've been riding 29" bikes for quite a few years now, and honestly didn't expect this bike to turn out to be so playful while still working well for just riding around in the woods. by Eric McKeegan
 
Engin Cycles Custom 650B Singlespeed Issue #137
The Engin Custom, in all of its 650B glory, won me over with solid performance dressed in a sexy design. by Sarah Hansing
 
Jamis Dragon 29 Issue #137
Jamis has done well with the Dragon 29 and presents a bicycle that's forgiving yet responsive enough to keep things interesting and fun. by Jeff Lockwood
 
Kona Hei Hei 2-9 Issue #136
If you spend most of your time riding technical, rough, rocky trails, and aren't a gram counter, I would strongly persuade you to consider this bike if you're shopping for an affordable dually 29er. by Justin Steiner
 
Lynskey Pro29 Custom Issue #136
They built the bike that I wanted and it came out better than I expected. It fits me well, inspires confidence, and makes me want to ride more. by Andy Bruno
 
Gary Fisher Superfly Issue #136
The Superfly might be further incentive for racers to drink the 29er Koolaid. A 29er racing machine such as this makes perfect sense to me. by Karen Brooks
 
Santa Cruz Blur LT Issue #136
The new Blur LT represents years of passionate riding and engineering, the latest in fabrication technology and the epitome of what an average trail bike has come to be. by Maurice Tierney
 
GoPro Helmet Hero Issue #136
With a base price is $169, the GoPro Helmet Hero is a compact, self-contained video/still camera that keeps things simple and affordable. by Karl Rosengarth
 
GT Sanction 1.0 Issue #135
The 2008 "all mountain" GT Sanction is the steroid indulgent yet laid-back big brother of the 2004 GT I-Drive XC that I reviewed. There are so many changes that I hardly recognized the legacy. by Adam Lipinski
 
Ahrens Whole Shot Cyclocross Frameset Issue #135
Mike Ahrens, who began fabricating bicycles in 1996, is a mountain biker with the vision, tools, and knowledge to create steel and aluminum handmade frames for the mountain, cyclocross, and road rider. by Shannon Mominee
 
Vassago Jabberwocky Frame And Fork Issue #135
In my opinion Vassago put together a solid 29er singlespeed offering for the price point. If you are looking for a steel frame and fork, make sure to include the Jabberwocky on your short list. by Joe Whitehair
 
2008 Raleigh Sojourn Issue #135
The Sojourn is perfect for those looking for an affordable and mostly bombproof touring bicycle. With a price tag of $1,100, the Sojourn is very well equipped. by Justin Steiner
 
'Beckler' – Santa Cruz Heckler With 650B Wheels Issue #135
With help from Santa Cruz, White Brothers, Pacenti and a few other companies, we've got an interesting creation here at Dirt Rag HQ—a longer-travel 650B bike. by Eric McKeegan
 
On-One Inbred 26 Issue #134
The unique design of the On-One Slot Dropout means that you can pull the rear wheel with no conflict from the disc caliper, no readjustment necessary. by J. P. Wares
 
Surly Big Dummy Issue #134
For those carrying heavy loads on a regular basis this may be the perfect bike; messengers and cyclists looking to eliminate or substantially reduce their need for a car would seem to be prime candidates. by Eric McKeegan
 
Trek Fuel EX 9 Issue #134
Riders looking for an all day sucker should give the Fuel EX 9 some serious play. The rear suspension does an admirable job of keeping pedal-induced suspension bob in check, while remaining active over small bumps. by Karl Rosengarth
 
Rocky Mountain Element 50 Issue #133
This bike is competent in both spec and performance. The frame is worthy of future upgrades, but the stock spec has nothing that needs to be replaced before lining up at that first race. by Eric McKeegan
 
Norco Evolve Issue #133
With the Evolve, Norco is offering an affordable out-of-the-box complete trials bike. It has a great spec for a great price. The Evolve is an amazing bike and I enjoyed my time riding it. by Jeremy Holdorf
 
Ventana El Capitan Issue #133
How does this 29er from Ventana ride? Cadillac comes to mind. I don't mean a big and heavy dinosaur, I mean the highest technology and quality available. by Maurice Tierney
 
Co-Motion Demon Issue #133
Riding the Demon felt solid with very good energy transfer. I didn't notice any lateral flexing or movement from the S&S couplers. The cockpit is aggressive and racy. by Andy Bruno
 
Moots Mooto-X Uno Issue #132
Moots has been using Ti since 1991, and they have been tinkering with 29er frames since 1998, so they are good candidates for producing a winning combination. by Karen Brooks
 
Trek 69er Single Speed Issue #132
In my opinion, Trek found an amazing middle ground in terms of handling-quick and playful, yet stable and confident at speed. by Justin Steiner
 
Niner R.I.P. 9 Issue #132
The Niner R.I.P. 9 matched my riding style perfectly and allowed me to experience 29" wheels coupled with 4.5" of rear travel. by Shannon Mominee
 
Felt Virtue Two Issue #131
The design of the rear suspension does its job of letting the suspension stay active and allows the rear wheel to roll over bumps while climbing. by Lee Klevens
 
Salsa Casseroll Issue #131
The Casseroll is a well-designed road bike for folks who don't wax their calves and salivate at fantasies of winning the local crit, but who don't want a sluggish cruiser either. by Eric Matthies
 
Misfit Psycles diSSent Issue #131
Misfit designed the diSSent 29" singlespeed to feel like a 26"-wheeled bike, only with bigger wheels—and it performed as advertised. by Colin Field
 
Pacenti 650B Issue #131
If you've been asking yourself, "How can I rationalize buying yet another bike?", along comes Kirk Pacenti with your answer—650B. by Andy Bruno
 
Diamondback Mission 3 Issue #130
The Mission begged to go fast and never backed down. It's the kind of bike that I'd take everywhere, for every ride. by David Alden-St.Pierre
 
Marin Rift Zone Issue #130
The Rift Zone's suspension shines when the trail heads downhill or is lumpy. by Shannon Mominee
 
Brodie Bruzza Issue #130
This bike can be dropped and jumped like a big bike and pedaled around with ease, more so than any all-mountain full suspension I have ridden. by Chris Skolnick
 
Willits Monster X Issue #130
I have a hard time imagining a bicycle that is better at carrying you to work, and allowing you to rip down some singletrack on the way home. by Justin Steiner
 
Ibis Mojo Issue #129
On this bike, you're a champ. There's absolutely nothing like a 5.5" 26lb. bike to make you feel like Muhammad Ali, floatin' like a butterfly and stingin' like a bee. by Michael Browne
 
Specialized Epic Marathon Carbon Issue #129
The Epic Carbon Marathon is an efficient, race-ready 100mm suspension bike that I found easy to adjust to match the trail conditions and my whims. by Karl Rosengarth
 
Jamis Dakar XCR Comp Issue #129
The $1785 Dakar XCR Comp is a platform that a sport-level racer could be happy with for years, upgrading as parts wear out. Not a bad deal at all. by Karen Brooks
 
Van Dessel Gin and Trombones Issue #129
If you're a racer in the market for a high-end 'cross bike, the Gin and Trombones is definitely a contender. by Thanita Adams
 
Bianchi Rita Issue #128
Rita is Bianchi's 29"-wheeled singlespeed, constructed from an Easton Ultralite Aluminum frame with horizontal dropouts and a RockShox Reba SL fork. Rita is a fun, reliable machine with great geometry. by Shannon Mominee
 
Novara Fusion Issue #128
Novara describes the Fusion as their "luxury" commuter—and with good reason. The Fusion comes out of the box with just about everything you would need to commute. Just throw a leg over and you're ready to roll. by Andy Bruno
 
Santa Cruz Nomad Issue #128
The Santa Cruz Nomad is an all-around mountain bike that can delve into the big-bike-downhill-stunt category with ease. This is the kind of bike that many average-yet-dedicated mountain bikers are riding these days. by Maurice Tierney
 
Gary Fisher HiFi Deluxe GS Issue #127
The HiFi Deluxe GS is the high-end women's specific model in Gary Fisher's new trailbike line that replaces the Cake line and features an updated take on the original Genesis geometry. by Karen Brooks
 
Scott Ransom SL Issue #127
The Ransom SL handles all the terrain on the mountain—super steep, long climbs, ultra-tech rock sections, high-speed rutted out downhills—with a great blend of climbing prowess and downhill stability. by Sean Methven
 
SRAM Rival Groupset Issue #127
SRAM has entered the heavily dominated cyclocross and road markets with their reliable, consistent, and comfortable to use Rival groupset. by Shannon Mominee
 
Coconino Cruiser Issue #127
Out of Steve Garro's one-man operation in Flagstaff, AZ comes a fine, fillet-brazed singlespeed that is one of the first 29" cruisers ever made. I can only describe the ride as fun. by Maurice Tierney
 
Raleigh XXIX Issue #126
The heart of the Raleigh XXIX is a Dirty Red 4130 double butted chromoly steel frame with s-bend stays and matching rigid fork. Around $750 buys an affordable 29er singlespeed that's a solid performer. by Michael Browne
 
Kona Paddy Wagon Issue #126
The Paddy Wagon is a bike that you can grow with as a commuter or urban rider. Singlespeed or fixed, fenders or not. Out of the box it is a completely capable machine. by Brad Quartuccio
 
Ground Up Custom Singlespeed Issue #126
Jeff Guerrero's custom singlespeed frame is a functioning work of art that was hand crafted by fellow mountain bikers in the United States, and comes with a somewhat indulgent $1,700 price tag. by Jeff Guerrero
 
Cannondale Rush 3 Issue #126
The Rush manages to be all that anyone could want out of a full suspension trail bike. It pedals well, and the suspension feels buttery without feeling sloppy. It tracks well and is plenty stiff. by Thanita Adams
 
Dahon Flo Issue #125
Dahon's Flo is a high-end hardtail mountain bike engineered to come apart in halves and pack into a piece of standard-sized luggage by using Ritchey's Break-Away technology. by Eric Matthies
 
Trek Remedy 6 Issue #125
The Remedy 6 features 5.75" of travel in the front and 6" in the rear. For about $2419 you get a bike that's capable going up, a blast going down, and that will help you redefine your limits as a rider. by David Alden-St.Pierre
 
Dean Ace 29er 3.0 FS Issue #125
My goal of a relatively "large and light" frame has been achieved by means of the superior craftsmanship, innovative design, and the lightweight materials of the Dean Ace 29"-wheeled 3.0 FS. by Michael Tierney
 
Salsa Dos Niner Issue #125
Unlike a slew of bandwagonesque manufacturers debuting 29"-wheeled bikes for '07, Salsa has been making 29ers for several years now. Experience does indeed make the best teacher. Their Dos Niner frame is a softail creation. by Karen Brooks
 
Orbea Alma 29 Issue #124
From the Euskadi region of the Pyrenees, Orbea is the first major manufacturer to offer a full carbon frame with 29" wheels. by Brad Quartuccio
 
Lenz Leviathan Issue #124
After putting it all together and taking it for a ride, there really wasn't much to comment on, except for, "It kicked ass." by Maurice Tierney
 
Giant Anthem 1 Issue #124
The Anthem handsomely addresses my usual full suspension complaints: heaviness and sluggish handling. It is noticeably lighter than my hardtail and as responsive as most aggressive cross-country race bikes I've ridden. by Sue George
 
Haro Sonix VL120S Issue #123
Haro has positioned the Sonix VL120S as a fun, strong trail bike that hits the sweet spot of most trails you can throw at it. by Jeff Lockwood
 
Transition Vagrant Issue #123
The Vagrant is a jack-of-all-trades: it can be ridden on your local XC loop, most DH trails, ridden around the city, and taken to the local jump trails. by Sean Methven
 
Voodoo Dambala 29er Issue #123
Many framebuilders don't make 29ers for smaller riders, but Thanita was happy to find that Voodoo makes the Dambala in her size. by Thanita Adams
 
K2 T:Nine Summit Issue #123
The Summit is a women's cross-country full suspension bike designed with input from K2's T:Nine Alliance Team, a group of five avid female cyclists with differing demographics. by Karen Brooks
 
Mongoose Teocali Super Issue #123
Intended for all day enduro-style riding that may include small jumps, drops, and/or stunts, the bike's long travel and slack geometry inspire confidence. by Jeff Guerrero
 
Redline 925 Issue #122
The 925 is Redline's urban fixed-gear bike and while it's an inexpensive rig, it is definitely more than minimal. by Kent Peterson
 
Gary Fisher Fat Possum XT Issue #122
So what can we learn about a high-forward pivot design in 2006? It's at least a 15-year-old design. But it works, with or without a high-tech shock. by Maurice Tierney
 
Iron Horse Azure Expert Issue #122
The Azure is the DW Link's first short travel application—90mm. It's racy, yet smooth, and ever so close to being twitchy. It accelerates without hesitation and climbs without wandering. by Michael Browne
 
Cotic Soul Issue #121
When on the hard push through winding singletrack, this bike shines. Cutting through the tight stuff, zig zagging in between trees, the Soul stands out from other hardtails I've ridden. by Max Kellogg
 
DeSalvo Mantis Issue #121
Forget the clunky steel bikes of yesteryear; current steel tubing can be as thin and light as other alloys. It's plenty stiff, but provides a lively and compliant ride. Factor in affordability, and steel still shines... by Thanita Adams
 
Specialized Tricross Comp Issue #121
The Tricross achieves what it set out to do in terms of being capable of handling varied surface conditions in a single ride. by Brad Quartuccio
 
Kona Lisa DS Issue #121
So—you're a woman in the market for an entry-level, full suspension bike. Kona is a brand well worth researching, especially if solid and durable are catch words for you and you plan on aggressively learning to ride. by Thanita Adams
 
Redline Flight Monocog Issue #120
About five or six years ago the singlespeed thing really started to take off—and Redline saw, and seized, the opportunity to capitalize on their BMX bloodline by introducing a singlespeed mountain bike. by W. Jeffrey Lockwood
 
Lemond Poprad Issue #120
According to the folks at Lemond, their goal for the Poprad was to produce a reliable cyclocross race bike with stable and confident handling that could also serve as a commuter or a road training machine. by Karl Rosengarth
 
Surly Pugsley Issue #120
The Pugsley is Surly's take on creating a bicycle that can accept significantly larger than normal tires. Ice, snow, wet rocks—many otherwise sketchy surfaces become rideable with the Pugsley's larger footprint. by Brad Quartuccio
 
Kona Dr. Dew Issue #119
Designed for commuting, the Dr. Dew's frame bridges the gap between road and cyclocross geometry, but utilizes a sloping top tube to achieve a more commuter-friendly standover height. by Jeff Guerrero
 
Ellsworth Moment Issue #119
While not my first choice for areas with less than 500ft. of elevation change, the Moment's efficient suspension and big hit pedalability is ideal for longer runs where speed and gravity play a part in the day's adventure. by Michael Browne
 
Maverick ML7.5 Issue #119
One word comes to mind when I think of Maverick: indulgent. It's as if owner Paul Turner (the guy who started RockShox) is satisfying some kind of wanton lust to make exciting and different mountain bikes. by Maurice Tierney
 
Carver 96er Issue #118
Having different sized front and rear wheels on a mountain bike is not a new idea. by Brad Quartuccio
 
BMC Fourstroke 03 Issue #118
BMC designed the Fourstroke for performance-oriented XC riding, and it shows. When properly set up in race mode, the Fourstroke 03 is one helluva endurance racing machine. by Karl Rosengarth
 
IRO Rob Roy Issue #118
The Rob Roy's basic style falls under the cyclocross genre, this is a bike that can really be used for whatever the rider wishes, from road cruising to offroad exploring. by Karen Brooks
 
Specialized Enduro Pro Issue #118
The Enduro Pro is the second in line of the five-bike Enduro family right behind the S-Works, which means it comes outfitted with some of the industry's best components and a $4400 price tag. by Joel Kennedy
 
Commençal Meta 4.10 Issue #117
Climbing, sprinting, descending, bunnyhopping...everything felt tight and responsive—not in the endless travel way that some bikes feel, but in the "I'm here to race" sort of way. by Michael Browne
 
Cannondale Prophet 800 Issue #117
The Prophet is Cannondale's newest entry into the 5.5" travel mountain bike market, oft times referred to as the "all mountain" category. by Jeff Guerrero
 
Raleigh Rush Hour Issue #117
Component nit picking aside, the Rush Hour is dead on. For the person looking for an off-the-shelf fixed gear bicycle, the Raleigh Rush Hour is worth a look. by Brad Quartuccio
 
Giant Reign Issue #116
Maestro is Giant’s latest contribution to the realm of rear suspension design. by Maurice Tierney
 
Scott RC 24 Issue #116
The senior management at Scott needed something for their own kids to ride. They didn't want to go outside the company, so they decided to design a bike. Enter the Scott RC 24, a high quality, lightweight bike for kids. by Mark Sauers
 
Gaansari St. Clair Issue #116
This bike is about riding around and going places; the St. Clair is a solid choice for the person who is perusing that small handful of retrogrouch manufacturers who hand build bikes with that classic look, feel and intent. by Thanita Adams
 
Orbea 29er Issue #116
After receiving the Orbea, I hung my other bikes on the rack and used it for everything for well over two months. I had some fun on the trails with this bike. by Mike Pfaltzgraff
 
Santa Cruz Jackal Issue #116
Santa Cruz designed this frame to take on anything the streets or dirt jumps could throw at it. From the flowing hydroformed top tube to the stout rear stays with beefed up replaceable dropouts, this frame is ready to shred. by Sean Methven
 
Vulture Cycles 29er Issue #115
Vulture Cycles is a two-human custom frame shop in Bend, Oregon with a love for one speeds and 29ers. I dreamed up a plan for a versatile ride, with the ability to run singlespeed or gears being the criteria. by Maurice Tierney
 
Trek Fuel EX 9 Issue #115
Besides smoothing out all the rough, mountainous terrain I could throw its way, the Fuel EX felt especially stable on off-camber trails (with drop offs) and on paved and fire roads. by Sue George
 
Gary Fisher Paragon 29er Issue #115
Overall the Paragon rides with a certain flow. This is no doubt a combination of the large wheels, the quality suspension fork, and the well thought-out frame. The whole package is a good one. by Brad Quartuccio
 
Redline Conquest Pro Issue #114
The Conquest Pro lets me do my favorite kind of riding: exploring. The bike is capable of tackling singletrack, yet it allows me to cruise the miles of pavement between trails without grinding along like a ruptured duck. by John Hinderliter
 
Bianchi G.U.S.S. Issue #114
Bianchi's singlespeed geometry is race-oriented with a slightly longer top tube than their same sized cross country bikes. On trail, the G.U.S.S. felt strong and light like a high-end aluminum mountain bike should. by Jeff Guerrero
 
Mongoose Ritual Issue #114
Black, 4130 chromoly steel, singlespeed, BMX-style tires on 24" Alex rims with 135mm rear dropout spacing, a durable dirt jump seat, three piece cranks with a 36/16t gear combo...cool. by Jason Schwinabart
 
Kona King Kikapu Issue #113
While Kona is well known as a maker of bikes for huckers and big mother truckers, a cursory glance at their catalog shows that they make bikes to suit riders of all shapes and sizes. by Jeff Guerrero
 
Dean Colonel Issue #113
This is quite possibly the overall best riding frame I've ever had the pleasure to swing a leg over. I recommend checking out Dean's offerings to anyone on the lookout for a mid-priced titanium frameset. by Brad Quartuccio
 
Litespeed Sewanee Issue #113
If one has an interest in the occasional contest against fellow riders, the rewards of XC full suspension are getting sweeter all the time, and the Litespeed Sewanee is a fine example of this progression. by Karen Brooks
 
Ventana X-5 Issue #112
The X-5 was introduced last year, but Ventana made some changes to its design for 2005. For someone of my stature, this is a lot of bike, definitely inspiring me to push my derring-do up a notch. by Thanita Adams
 
Motobecane Fantom Team Issue #111
Although I swapped a few parts to suit my needs, the Fantom Team sports plenty of spec highlights worth mentioning, especially considering the reasonable $1995 price tag. by Karl Rosengarth
 
Cannondale Chase Issue #110
If you are on a tight budget and are looking for a bike that is built to take some serious abuse, look no further, my friends. by Sean Methven
 
Jamis Exile Issue #109
The Jamis Exile is one example of a type of bike I've sold hundreds of, but haven't ridden in a decade—a solid mid-level hardtail, a good choice for a first "real" bike or a budget racer. by Karen Brooks
 
Haro Werx EXT Issue #108
The Haro Werx EXT arrived one fine fall day and was determined by another, unnamed test rider to be too much bike. At this I laughed and immediately signed myself up. by Joel Kennedy
 
IF Ti Deluxe Issue #106
At $2,825 for the frame alone, the Ti Deluxe is intended to be the absolute best hardtail mountain bike on the market. by Jeff Guerrero
 
Burley Runabout Issue #106
Comfortable. Stable. Reliable. Those are the first three words that come to mind when I think about the Burley Runabout. by Michael Browne
 
Project IRO: Jamie Roy Issue #105
After admiring the local fixed gear riders for a few years, I felt it was time. I wanted a smoother spin. I wanted to track-skid. by Brad Quartuccio
 
Sinister Ridge Issue #104
Well Dirt Rag did it again, they went against their better judgment and sent me another bike to test ride. by Jason Schwinabart
 
Surly Karate Monkey Issue #103
With 29" wheels, disc tabs, horizontal dropouts and a derailleur hanger, the Karate Monkey just might be the most versatile mountain bike ever devised. by Maurice Tierney
 
Tomac 98 Special Comp Issue #102
It's the middle son of a three bike 98 Special family, and it's intended purpose is long-haul, aggressive trail riding of the all around variety, as you might guess by its 98mm of rear wheel travel. by Joel Kennedy
 
Rocky Mountain ETSX-50 Issue #101
When the opportunity to test Rocky Mountain's adjustable travel (3.5", 4" or 4.5"), disc specific, full suspension ETSX-50 was presented, I jumped at the chance and haven't looked back by Jeff Guerrero
 
Marin Mount Vision Issue #100
Jeff flogs the Marin Mount Vision, which features some interesting suspension. by Jeff Lockwood
 
Santa Cruz Heckler Issue #99
...For my money (all loaners), the bike with the least compromise and the most surprising performance has been the 2003 Santa Cruz Heckler. by Joel Kennedy
 
Ellsworth Id Issue #98
The Id is Ellsworth's newest machine, and with up to 6 inches of rear wheel travel, it fits somewhere between the Truth cross country race bike and the Dare long travel bike. by Maurice Tierney
 
Dean Ace 3.0 Issue #97
I've raced and ridden the Dean in just about every situation and location I could this summer, and as you might have guessed from the above description, I never wanted a better bike in the past three months. by Jeff Guerrero
 
Phat Cycles First Class Cruiser Issue #96
The First Class is a one-bike parade—a traffic stopper and a jaw dropper. It's an expression of street attitude in chromoly and steel. This is not a bike that is comfortable with Lycra. Denim or leather would work better. by Chris Cosby
 
Retrotec Issue #95
Retrotec is more of a tribute to an idea and tradition than it is an actual company. Curtis Inglis builds his own fillet brazed Inglis Cycles frames on his family's Napa Valley farm, but he also builds Retrotec frames... by Joel Kennedy
 
Kona Beer Issue #94
This is the bicycle formerly known as Bear Dee-Lux. Since Kona owners like beer, and someone else already makes a bike named Bear, the name has been changed to protect the innocent. by Maurice Tierney
 
Giant AC Air Lite Issue #93
All conditions, huh? That's a bold statement when it comes to naming a product and implying how it's to be used. Giant has a line of bikes that's called All Conditions and I'm going to describe the Air Lite version. by Joel Kennedy
 
Rocky Mountain Slayer Issue #93
by Todd Lubic
 
Whyte PRST-1 Issue #93
by Chris Cosby
 
Gary Fisher Sugar 2+ Disc Issue #92
How sweet it is. How sweet is it? by Jeff Guerrero
 
Cannondale Cyclocross Ultra Issue #92
by Michael Browne
 
Ritchey Ni-Ti Issue #92
by Joel Kennedy
 
Commuter Bike Issue #92
by Maurice
 
Fireman’s Texas Cruiser Race Issue #91
by Mark Taylor
 
Van Dessel Buzz Bomb Issue #91
by Joel Kennedy
 
Cannondale Scalpel 800 Issue #90
How sharp is the Cannondale Scalpel 800? Michael Browne lets us know. by Michael Browne
 
Empire Custom Frame Issue #90
by Jeffrey D. Guerrero
 
Seven Cycles Sola Issue #90
by Philip Keyes
 
Bergwerk Moonraker Issue #89
by Jeremy Holdorf
 
Merlin XLM Issue #88
by Doug Pippel
 
On One Inbred Singlespeed Issue #88
by Stephen P. Rogers
 
Cannondale Jekyll 600 Issue #88
by Adam Lipinski
 
Razor Rock Racing Singlespeed/Slalom Hubs and Stiffy Disc Brake LeversRazor Rock Racing Singlespeed/ Issue #88
by Lee Klevens
 
Schwinn Rocket 88 Stage 3 Issue #86
Nice selection of parts, cool Fox air shock in the rear with adjustable rebound, Manitou SX-R with adjustable preload, compression damping and rebound damping up front. by Michael Browne
 
Strong Custom frame Issue #86
The differences between a production built bike and a custom designed frame are numerous, but it all boils down to fit and function. Just as a custom tailored suit fits you like an "off the rack" brand could only hope to... by Chris Cosby
 
GT Avalanche Issue #85
I thought it would be interesting to get a pair of "blue collar" mountain bikes (affordable, yet capable, bikes), and have two different riders test them. by Lee Klevins and Jeffrey D. Guerrero
 
Gunnar Rockhound Issue #84
The heart of the Rockhound is its air hardened steel frameset: Reynolds 853 main triangle and True Temper OX Platinum stays. Both of these air hardened steels have higher strength-to-weight ratios than conventional chromoly.. by Karl Rosengarth
 
Willits Brand New Sheriff Issue #84
To Wes Williams of Willits Brand Bicycles, the only option when it comes to mountain bike wheels is 29 inch. by Adam Lipinski
 
Santa Cruz Bullit Issue #82
So here I am. The new guy on the block, the "hee-haw" intern, trying to hold my own here at Dirt Rag. Head swagmeister Karl deems me worthy of the new Santa Cruz Bullit that just arrived. by Michael Browne
 
Vicious Cycles Motivator Issue #82
Just what is a 29" inch mountain bike? It's a mountain bike designed to use 700c rims. When you install WTB's 700c Nanoraptor mountain tire, the tire's outside diameter measures 29". by Karl Rosengarth
 
Norco Torrent Issue #80
The meat: A partially monocoque aluminum alloy hardtail mixed with Easton Elite tubes. The stock: A 110mm travel Marzocchi QR20 Z3. The barley: Hayes fully hydraulic disk brakes. by Tom Mitchell
 
Big Bear Bikes Burro Issue #80
As one can infer from its namesake, the Burro is not exactly a quick race-type of bike. Perfect, as I am far from the quick race-type of rider. by Brad Quartuccio
 
Cannondale Raven 700SX Issue #79
The bike beneath me becomes one with my mind and body. It is weightless as it glides effortlessly over the dips, bumps and turns of my path. The first trail ride atop the Cannondale Raven 700SX blew all of that away. by W. Jeffrey Lockwood
 
KHS ProST Issue #79

KHS has a great idea: softails for the masses. Usually you'd have to spend 3 or 4 grand for the pleasure of owning a short-travel, pivotless suspension bike. by Philip Keyes
 
Soulcraft Option Three Issue #79
Soulcraft uses Reynolds 853 air-hardened tubing on the front triangle and a combination of Columbus and Reynolds 525 on the rear. Sean’s skills are evident in the design and construction quality of this bike. by Doug Pippel
 
Gary Fisher Sugar 1 Issue #79
The Sugar 1 is 24.6 lbs. out of the box, rides like a hardtail Supercaliber with 2 1/2" of forgiveness, has tunable air shocks front and rear and an electric paint job. by Chris Cosby
 
GT Zaskar X Issue #78
Yep, it's a pretty sweet bike. But the Zaskar X is something more. It has attitude. It has something that most companies leave behind when they get big. Hardcore punk appeal. by Dave Alden
 
Koski Snow Sports — Mono Trac Issue #78
Dual-suspension ski bike, with 8 inches of coil-over-oil travel front and rear. Lightweight 6061 T6 aluminum alloy frame, made in Taiwan by major bicycle contractor. Elan "junior skis" front and rear. by The Committee
 
Orange Mountain Bikes Mr. XC Issue #78
So the company is Orange, what was the bike? The Mr. XC, yes, that’s Mr. XC to you, and I pity the fool who don’t like its plush, well-balanced suspension compression. by Adam Lipinski
 
Surly 1X1 Issue #78
You see, most bikes being built nowadays share a similar geometry and most ride just fine. The 1X1 is one of them, except that it has no bells and whistles to distract you. by Lee Klevens
 
Matt Chester Utilitiman Issue #78
One blustery January day, I get a call from Matt Chester, and he tells me he wants to build me a bike for product testing. He says I'd be the perfect tester because I like to ride in the winter, I dig rigid forks... by Karl Rosengarth
 
Kona Jake the Snake Issue #77
Right out of the box, Jake and I were off to a quick start. He’s one smooth operator. I like the way he made me feel—silky smooth. The movement was fluid and, even though I was in a new position... by Elaine
 
Fort 2x1000 Issue #77
Let me tell you how serious this frame is about cyclocross racing—it has no waterbottle bosses! This bike is intended for an hour of all-out effort, and if you’ve got time to get a drink of water you’re not going hard enough. by John Hinderliter
 
Ellsworth Truth XC Issue #77
You first notice the Olde English embossed font of the Ellsworth logo and realize quickly this bike is going to have a unique feel. Easton Ultra Lite forms the front triangle of this fully floating ride... by Chris Cosby
 
K2 Razorback RS Issue #77
You want it straight? The K2 Razorback RS should be on everyone’s short list of lightweight, race-ready dualies for Y2K. It excels on steep climbs, hugs tight corners like velcro, and explodes onto the straight-aways. by Philip Keyes
 
Independent Fabrications Planet Cross Issue #77
The Planet Cross is a simple, well designed and made cross bike. The neatly welded Reynolds 853 frame has several nice added touches. A down tube gusset and a reinforced seat tube slot add extra material... by John Herron
 
Sycip Spezial Slalom Bike Issue #76
Sycip is Jay and Jeremy Sycip, brothers who went to art school and decided to start a custom bike company. Jeremy is the head builder and designer. Jay is designer, color coordinator and lunch room monitor. by Maurice
 
Klein Mantra Race Issue #76
In a nutshell, the Mantra is a high pivot unified rear triangle design with 7 inches of rear travel, that can still be pedaled and even raced cross country if you ever feel inclined to do so. by Adam Lipinski
 
Dean Z-Link Issue #76
The Z-Link is their offering in the long travel full suspension XC category. One look and you can see this bike is built for fun, whether you’re out of bounds or on the race circuit. by Chris Cosby
 
Ionic Steelhead Comp Issue #76
Who is Ionic, you say? Well it seems that my knowledge of Greek history is pretty sparse. But I do know that Ionic Cycles has been busy electrifying their little space in Boise, Idaho since 1994. That’s where they manufacture by Lee Klevens
 
Merlin Fat Beat Issue #76
When I asked Merlin's designer to describe the concept behind the Fat Beat, he told me he wanted to make an XC bike with enough suspension to take the edge off, without wasting pedaling energy or inducing a lot of waggle. by Karl Rosengarth
 
1989 Team Stumpjumper Issue #74
The story from 24 hours of Canaan this year is the story of a ten-year-old bike that has not passed it’s prime—Stutterin’ Prick. by Maurice
 
Gunnar Crosshairs Issue #74
According to Richard Schwinn (top dog at Gunnar), the Crosshairs is a general purpose road bike disguised as a cyclocross bike. Gasp, did he say ROAD bike? In Dirt Rag? Yew becha. by Karl Rosengarth
 
Jamis Diablo Pro Issue #72
Dual suspension, disk brakes, out of the box at 27.6 lbs. The Hayes hydraulic disks have slotted bosses for easy, no-drag setup. by Karl Rosengarth
 
GT i-drive XCR2000 Issue #72
Try and try. Ride and ride. And still can’t find much wrong with this i-drive thing. I’ve ridden it a lot, over various types of terrain, and it’s just so well mannered, yet...Oh well. by Maurice
 
Mongoose DX 10.7 Issue #70
The top-of-the-line Mongoose now comes dressed in titanium alloy. The DX10 Ti series mountain bikes are new additions to the Mongoose line-up for 1999. New, but old. Mongoose assembled a veteran supporting cast to help them. by Karl Rosengarth
 
Ventana El Conquistador de Montanas Issue #70
Ventana builds their tandems one at a time, in many sizes—we ordered ours as 21x16 thinking that Elaine or Karl would be doing most of the stoking ‘til young Maurice was big enough. by Maurice
 
Giant XTC SE1 Issue #69
I hurried up and rode the Giant several times over two weeks this fall, in hopes of giving you an idea of what’s coming up. I also notice that this is the first bike I will be riding with Shimano’s new Mega 9 drivetrain... by Maurice
 
Kona NuNu Issue #68
With a spec list including a 7005 aluminum alloy frame, LX rear derailleur, Mavic X138 rims, STX-RC cranks, Avid 1.0 brakes and an RST 381 suspension fork, the $700 NuNu was designed to deliver comfort and durability... by Karl Rosengarth
 
Santa Cruz Chameleon Issue #66
Santa Cruz designed their Chameleon to perform like its reptilian namesake. Their goal was to produce a versatile bike adaptable to multiple environments-cross country, dual slalom and single speeding. by Karl Rosengarth
 
Iron Horse ARS 7.0 Issue #65
Iron Horse designed the ARS 7.0 to be an entry level sport racer. Their goal was to make a light, dependable bike that was affordable. Iron Horse's approach was to fashion double butted 7005 series aluminum tubing... by Karl Rosengarth
 

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