Each year ahead of Interbike we score the user-generated mountain bike product reviews on Singletracks and compile a “best of” list. There was a ton of cool gear released in 2012 so naturally competition was fierce. In the end, the following products ended up on top.
Best DH Mountain Bike: Santa Cruz V10
Best AM Mountain Bike: Kona Abra Cadabra
Best 29er Mountain Bike: Giant Talon 29er
Best Full Suspension XC Bike: Trek Fuel EX 8
Best Hardtail XC Bike: Giant Revel
Best Mountain Bike Brakes: Avid BB7
Best Mountain Bike Handlebars:Crankbrothers Cobalt
Best Mountain Bike Light: Niterider MiNewt 350
Best Mountain Bike Fork:Fox 40
Best Mountain Bike Shock:Fox RP2
Best Mountain Bike Pedals:Shimano M520
Best Mountain Bike Saddle:Specialized Henge
Best Mountain Bike Seatpost:Rock Shox Reverb
Best Mountain Bike Tire:Kenda Nevegal
Best Helmet Camera: GoPro HD
Best Mountain Bike Gloves: Fox DirtPaw
Best Sunglasses: Oakley Half Jacket
Best Mountain Bike Shoes: Shimano SH-M086L
Best Mountain Bike Helmet: Fox Flux
Best Hydration Pack: Camelbak M.U.L.E.
If you’re doing some late-season shopping for MTB gear, you can’t go wrong starting with this list. The best part is, most of these items will be back for 2013 with updates and tweaks to make them even better. Stay tuned for our Interbike coverage next week!
The Singletracks “best of” list is compiled based on average member ratings, the number of ratings, and the number of times the gear is included on member wishlists and “my gear” lists. The 2012 rating period started Sept. 1, 2011 and ended Aug. 31, 2012. Start reviewing your favorite gear today to influence the 2013 list.