Latest mountain bike news

A mountain bike with a sleek design, featuring a white and blue frame, positioned on rocky terrain. The bike has large tires suitable for off-road conditions and a prominent front suspension fork, showcasing its capability for rugged trails.
min
Map of the most popular mountain bike trails in the United States and Canada for the year 2017, featuring various trail locations marked across the regions of both countries.
  19
Close-up of a bike tire featuring a rugged tread design, partially covered in snow. The tire's surface is detailed with distinct, square-shaped knobs, which provide traction for winter riding conditions. The background shows a snowy landscape.
4 min
A mountain biker navigating a rocky trail on a hillside, with mountains and a cloudy sky in the background.
  2
A close-up view of a person wearing a CamelBak hydration pack, positioned on their lower back, while holding onto a bicycle handlebar. The background features a forested area, suggesting an outdoor activity like biking or hiking.
  4
A winding dirt path through a tranquil forest, surrounded by tall trees and patches of green moss. Sunlight filters through the branches, casting gentle shadows on the ground.
  3
A person riding a mountain bike on a rocky terrain, with large boulders and sparse vegetation, under a clear blue sky.
min
A close-up view of a bike suspension tool mounted in a workshop, featuring a metallic silver body with a blue label and a clamp at one end. Various bike tools and equipment are visible in the background, arranged on a wall.
min
A person riding a mountain bike on a gravel path alongside a river, surrounded by trees and rocky terrain. The scenery features hills in the background and a clear sky.
min
A scenic view of a mountainous landscape at sunrise, featuring rugged peaks illuminated by warm sunlight. In the foreground, a rustic wooden fence and scattered bushes blend with the natural surroundings, while a house is nestled among the trees in the distance. The scene captures the tranquility of nature, with a mix of rocky terrain and evergreen trees.
  4
A mountain biker rides along a narrow rock arch in a desert landscape, with cloudy skies overhead. The scene captures the thrill of outdoor adventure and the natural beauty of the terrain.
  6
A close-up image of a brightly colored, worn shoe resting on a large stone, surrounded by natural elements such as dried leaves and small plants. The shoe features a black toe with red accents and visible text printed on the side.
  2
Group of four outdoor enthusiasts posing together by a body of water. They are smiling and wearing casual attire, with logos visible on their shirts and hats. The background features a recreational area with boats and greenery under a clear blue sky.
min
A mountain biker riding over rocky terrain on a sunny day with a clear blue sky. The cyclist is dressed in a black and pink jersey and gray shorts, focusing on navigating the challenging landscape.
  4
A group of mountain bikers in various colored outfits and helmets are lined up next to a starting banner on a dirt path. The setting appears to be a grassy area with hills in the background, under overcast skies. Some participants are holding umbrellas due to the weather, while others are on their bikes, preparing for the race.
  7
Alt text: A detailed view of a mountain bike featuring a black and green frame, showcasing the suspension system and handlebars. Images include close-ups of the shock absorber and fork with branding, highlighting the bike's advanced components.
min
A mountain biker climbs a dirt trail on a hillside, surrounded by rocky terrain and sparse vegetation under a partly cloudy sky.
5 min
Four containers of Nikwax cleaning products are displayed on a red background. The products include TX.Direct Wash-In and TX.Direct Spray-On on the top, and Basewash and Tech Wash bottles on the bottom.
min
A scenic landscape view featuring rolling hills and a valley, with a winding river and patches of trees. In the distance, snow-capped mountains rise against a cloudy sky, illuminated by sunlight breaking through the clouds.
min
A black and yellow GT mountain bike frame is positioned on a workbench. The frame features a stylish design with prominent branding and is equipped with a shock absorber. A small piece of wood is supporting the frame, and the background shows a power outlet and a row of electrical sockets along the wall.
min
A blue fat bike with oversized tires is displayed against a textured white background. The bike features a sleek design, with a modern frame and disc brakes. Additionally, a graphic reading "Coming Soon" is positioned at the top left corner, adding a promotional element to the image.
min
A mountain biker performing a jump off a wooden ramp in a forested area, surrounded by trees and greenery. The rider is wearing a helmet and protective gear, showcasing an action shot that captures the thrill of the sport.
min
Two people riding mountain bikes along a dirt path in a desert landscape. The scene features sparse vegetation and a distant mountainous horizon under a cloudy sky.
  6
  2
A mountain bike with orange handlebars and two water bottles mounted on the frame is parked beside a trail sign featuring symbols for biking and hiking. In the background, a rocky mountain range and clear blue sky are visible. The scene is set in a natural outdoor environment with scattered shrubs.
  23
A mountain biker skillfully navigates a rocky trail on a bicycle, with a wooden bridge in the foreground. The landscape features rugged terrain and sparse vegetation, showcasing the challenging environment of the bike ride.
  6
Close-up of a man’s face with a focused expression, accompanied by the text "dirtTV" in the top left corner and the words "BEYOND THE BIKE 'NEEDLES'" prominently displayed. The background is dark, emphasizing the subject's features.
min
A black fat bike displayed in a shop, featuring oversized tires with white rims and a sleek frame design. Various bicycle accessories and other bikes are visible in the background, showcasing a vibrant retail environment.
  7
A person riding a mountain bike on a narrow dirt trail surrounded by tall grasses and rocky terrain, with hills in the background under a partially cloudy sky.
  2
A spacious bicycle shop featuring a variety of bicycles on display. The interior has high ceilings with bright overhead lights and large windows allowing natural light. Rows of bikes are arranged around the shop, with a counter where staff assist customers.
  9
Logo of "Bell Built" featuring a hexagonal design in red with the words "BELL BUILT" prominently displayed. The tagline "MAKING TRAILS" is included, accompanied by a gear symbol.
min
A cluttered bike shop filled with numerous bicycles, both on the floor and hanging from the ceiling. Various styles and colors of bikes are visible, including a bright yellow bike prominently displayed amongst many others. Price tags are attached to most bikes, and posters and signage decorate the walls of the shop. The overall atmosphere is busy and vibrant, highlighting a vast selection of bicycles.
  12
A person standing outdoors in a black t-shirt, speaking towards the camera with a scenic background featuring trees and mountains under a clear blue sky. A video player interface is visible at the bottom.
min
Buzzwords and catch phrases come and go with time, but there are three catch phrases that are on fire right now in the mountain bike industry: "27.5," "enduro," and "one-quiver bike." (...not to mention anything with the words "fat" or "plus.")

Over the course of this review, I'll explain how the design of the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/All-Mountain-bikes/GT-Force-Carbon-Pro_1351">GT Force Carbon Pro</a> either caters to these hot trends, or rejects them.

<a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/money-shot-2_1024x696-e1390942216602.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-43605" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/money-shot-2_1024x696-e1390942216602.jpg" alt="money-shot-2_1024x696-e1390942216602" width="620" height="421" /></a>

<strong>"27.5"</strong>

This one is pretty simple, since the GT Force is a 27.5-specific design, featuring the tweener 27.5/650b wheel size. Sure, it's the hot thing in the market, but I've been covering the 650b trend since before everyone started calling it 27.5, and I've gone on the record many times with the opinion that the long-travel all-mountain/enduro niche is the perfect spot for 27.5 wheels to rest. The Force occupies this position superbly, as a truly aggressive enduro machine. More on that below.

For more on the bike specs, as well as a detailed analysis of the frame design, be sure to check out <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-reviews/on-review-gt-force-carbon-pro-27-5650b/">my "On Review" article</a> for a thorough break down.

<strong>"Enduro"</strong>

For those who are unfamiliar, enduro racing is a relatively new race format, in which only the descents are timed. However, in order to get to the descents, riders often have to pedal up a significantly long climb. Enduro races are usually held over the course of multiple days, with multiple downhill stages per day, and the cumulative recorded descent times decide who wins and loses. Thus, this race format requires physical fitness, but it puts a premium on bike handling and downhill speed. Since this is how I treat my everyday rides, this format sounds like a ton of fun to me!

[caption id="attachment_43606" align="alignnone" width="620"]<a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/IMG_0077_1000x6661-e1398198078965.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-43606" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/IMG_0077_1000x6661-e1398198078965.jpg" alt="Shredding rocks on Uncle Nazty. Photo: Ryan K." width="620" height="413" /></a> Shredding rocks on Uncle Nazty. Photo: Ryan K.[/caption]

For true Enduro racing, GT <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-news/news-gt-announces-new-sanction-enduro-rig/">announced their brand-new Sanction</a> just a couple of weeks ago, which sports 165mm of travel. The stock Force is just shy of that at 150mm. But before the Sanction dropped, the Force was GT's main enduro-oriented offering, with many riders racing enduro aboard this rig in 2013. And since the Sanction won't be available to the public until this fall, I bet there will still be plenty of racers aboard the Force this year.

This bike has all the characteristics of a great enduro race rig. Thanks to the 30-pound weight, 3x10 drivetrain with a super low granny gear, and the fantastic Fox CTD suspension, I was able to easily dial down my suspension, drop gears, and climb, climb, climb on this bad boy. Once at the top of the climbs, just open that suspension up, drop the post, shift up, and get ready to rip! In fact, I'll be racing the entire <a href="http://www.bigmountainenduro.com/">Big Mountain Enduro</a> series this year, and unless something changes between now and then, I'll probably be racing it aboard the Force! Stay tuned for more info on how it rides in a real-life enduro race.

[caption id="attachment_43607" align="alignnone" width="620"]<a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/IMG_0104_1024x682-e1398198315257.jpg"><img class=" wp-image-43607" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/IMG_0104_1024x682-e1398198315257.jpg" alt="IMG_0104_1024x682" width="620" height="413" /></a> Sand Dunes trail. Photo: Brink M.[/caption]

<strong>"One-Quiver Bike"</strong>

For some reason, riders these days seem to be searching for the elusive "one-quiver bike." With bike weights dropping, suspension getting better and better, new-and-improved drivetrains, and the venerable dropper post, we are undoubtedly getting closer to the ideal one-bike-for-everything. However, searching for a true quiver killer is like searching for the fountain of youth: it will prove ever elusive.

As I recently mentioned in <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/uncategorized/the-single-speed-addiction/#comments">the comments section</a> of an article here on Singletracks, "I’m not saying that singlespeeds aren’t awesome, I’m simply saying that there’s no one bike that is THE best at everything." Even with full suspension carbon wonder bikes, there is still no one bike that is THE best at everything. Here's the rub: even in the wide world of 150-160mm-travel all mountain bikes, longer, slacker bikes will be more stable and descend better, and bikes with a shorter wheelbase and steeper geometry will be snappier and climb better.

Now, there are plenty of companies who are trying to find the perfect middle ground that will allow their enduro rigs to do both equally well, but when I ride the Force, I think that GT realized that they could create either a bike that climbs well, a bike that descends well, or a bike that does both moderately well, but neither <em>really</em> well. So, their solution was to create one bike that climbs extremely well, and one bike that descends extremely well. The Force is undoubtedly the descending-oriented rig (with the Sensor as the climbing-oriented bike). This Force just isn't a one-quiver bike... and that's a good thing!

[caption id="attachment_43608" align="alignnone" width="620"]<a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/14-2-e1398198495803.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-43608" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/14-2-e1398198495803.jpg" alt="Trail: Uncle Nazty" width="620" height="349" /></a> Trail: Uncle Nazty[/caption]

When pointed downhill, the Force absolutely rails! The long chainstays, slack geometry, durable frame, and aggressive parts kit have allowed me to absolutely brutalize endless rock gardens, absurdly steep descent, gnarly rock rolls... the works!

While I am unabashedly a 29er fan, I've admitted that I would way rather ride a 650b rig than a 26er nowadays. After coming off  a recent review of a fantastic 29er all mountain rig, I was a little unsure how the Force would stack up. However, there is at least one department that the 27.5 wheels truly excel in, and that is cornering. Cornering on the Force is unreal, due in large part to the spot-on geo, and also thanks to the smaller, more maneuverable wheels. Also, the awesome stock tire choice of the 2.4" Continental Trail King tires is incredible! I love these kicks so much that I might have to write up an entire article for them alone, so stay tuned.

In short, when descending on a bike that is actually pedalable, (aka barring full blown DH rigs), the GT Force is one of the most confidence-inspiring bikes I have ever ridden. There is no question in my mind that when descending, this bike can tackle far more than I am personally capable of. And to me, that's a good thing in an aggressive bike!

[caption id="attachment_43609" align="alignnone" width="620"]<a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/IMG_0117_1024x682-e1398198568422.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-43609" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/IMG_0117_1024x682-e1398198568422.jpg" alt="Trail: Sand Dunes. Photo: Brink M." width="620" height="413" /></a> Trail: Sand Dunes. Photo: Brink M.[/caption]

<strong>Adjustments</strong>

[caption id="attachment_43610" align="alignright" width="266"]<a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/IMG_0040-2-money-2.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-43610" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/IMG_0040-2-money-2-266x400.jpg" alt="2014 160mm Fox TALAS installed on the GT Force." width="266" height="400" /></a> 2014 160mm Fox TALAS installed on the GT Force.[/caption]

I mentioned above that this bike can climb plenty well for enduro races, and that's totally true: I've logged several 30-40-mile, mostly XC rides on this bike, and it's been more than manageable. However, don't expect it to climb as easily or as confidently as a bike with steeper geometry. But since this bike is so capable in its stock form, it made me think: are there any adjustments that could radically transform the way this bike rides?

The one thing that could truly help the handling on the climbs is a steeper head tube angle. And while the stock 150mm Fox 34 Float Fork is great, the lack of travel adjust is a little unfortunate. Thankfully, I had the opportunity to install and test a new 160mm 2014 Fox 34 TALAS with travel adjust.

This fork did indeed transform the way the Force rode! The 10 extra millimeters of travel made it even burlier and more aggressive on the descents, but a quick flip of the lever brought it down to about 140mm on the climbs, meaning that the head tube angle was steeper and more controllable while climbing. With the installation of one fork, the Force got both more aggressive on the descents AND more reasonable on the climbs. It's like magic!

Also, if you purchase a Force and then decide that you want a little speedier, more trail-oriented rig, the tires and wheels are a good place to look for a change. While the 2.4" Trail Kings offer unreal traction, they're heavy and slow when it's time to pedal. Also, while the stock e13 wheels were pretty reliable, they are by no means lightweight.

So if, at some point in the future you want to change things up, there are plenty of ways you could tweak and modify the Force to make it fit your local trails, conditions, and your riding style.

[caption id="attachment_43613" align="alignnone" width="620"]<a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/IMG_0091_1024x682-e1398200103166.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-43613" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/IMG_0091_1024x682-e1398200103166.jpg" alt="Trail: Sand Dunes. Photo: Brink M." width="620" height="413" /></a> Trail: Sand Dunes. Photo: Brink M.[/caption]

<strong>Minor Gripes</strong>

I have no major gripes with the frame or the bike as a whole, but there are a couple bones I have to pick with the stock component spec. Normally I wouldn't care as much about the components hung on a rig, but since there are only two build kit options (both with relatively similar issues), GT, in my opinion, just doesn't offer enough build kit options for the wide array of riders that are out there. At the very least, a frame-only option to allow riders to truly build their dream bike would be a smart idea.

In the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-reviews/on-review-gt-force-carbon-pro-27-5650b/">On Review article</a> I mentioned having some issues with the brakes. After some maintenance, the brakes are now performing reliably. While maybe they aren't my favorite set of brakes, after a little upkeep they're currently getting the job done.

The thing I really have the hardest time wrapping my head around is the drivetrain. For a bike that is seemingly so aggressive and descending-oriented, it seems quite unusual in this day and age to spec a 3x10 drivetrain. Sure, this drivetrain has allowed me to spin up some of the steepest climbs, but even with a clutch-style derailleur I've had to combat dropped chains and undue chain slap. If it was me, I'd at least have a 2x10 on here and/or a chain guide. But with this bike's disposition towards downhill gnar, I think a 1x11 drivetrain would be ideal for this application. It would provide much better chain retention, a simpler overall setup, and better rock clearance

However, despite mentioning those small gripes with this current rig, it seems like GT has gotten on the same page: their new enduro killer, the Sanction, is a single ring-specific frame and will be available with a frame-only option, to allow absolute customization.

<strong>Bottom Line</strong>

The GT Force Carbon Pro is an enduro force to be reckoned with as it blasts down absurdly technical descents with nary a thought for the terrain it travels over. While it may sacrifice a bit on the climbs in exchange for descending prowess, that's intentional. The Force is unabashedly all about descending, and it is unnervingly good at it.

MSRP: $7,050.

[caption id="attachment_43612" align="alignnone" width="620"]<a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/IMG_0073_1000x6661-e1398199977103.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-43612" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/IMG_0073_1000x6661-e1398199977103.jpg" alt="Trail: Uncle Nazty. Photo: Ryan K." width="620" height="413" /></a> Trail: Uncle Nazty. Photo: Ryan K.[/caption]

<em>Many thanks to <a href="http://www.gtbicycles.com/">GT Bicycles</a> for providing the Force Carbon Pro for review!</em>
min
A mountain biker navigating a rocky downhill trail, leaning forward with intensity as he expertly rides his blue bike through a rugged, natural landscape surrounded by trees and rocky terrain.
min
An artistic arrangement of Shimano XTR bike components, including a crankset, cassette, chain, and derailleur, set against a dark blue background. The text "SHIMANO XTR" and "ENGINEERED FOR THE WAY YOU RIDE" is prominently displayed.
  6
A fat tire bike parked on a snowy trail, with mountains and a cloudy sky in the background.
  7
min
A man wearing a black helmet, a dark plaid shirt, and black pants is standing next to a mountain bike. He is holding an orange object in one hand and has a relaxed expression while posing against a textured gray background.
min
A bright turquoise mountain bike with striking pink accents. The bike features a sturdy frame and is displayed on a stand against a green backdrop, indicating a bicycle event or exhibition.
  2
A cyclist navigating rocky terrain on a mountain bike, wearing a helmet and a red shirt, with trees in the background. The cyclist appears focused and is leaning forward, showcasing a dynamic riding posture.
  9
A high-performance mountain bike suspension fork with a black and silver design, featuring adjustable settings and a sturdy crown. The fork is shown from a frontal perspective, highlighting its sleek lines and branding.
  3
A sleek black fat bike positioned on snowy ground, showcasing its wide, knobby tires and sturdy frame. Pine trees in the background add a natural, wintry setting. The bike features a minimalist design with a small storage bag attached to the frame.
  4
A mountain biker performing a wheelie on a rocky trail, with a mountainous landscape in the background under a clear blue sky. The rider is wearing a helmet and protective gear, showcasing an adventurous moment in an outdoor setting.
  8
Close-up view of a mountain bike tire showcasing its textured tread pattern, designed for grip and traction on rough terrain. The background features blurred earthy tones, indicating an outdoor setting.
  2
A cyclist riding along a winding dirt trail on a rocky, arid landscape with sparse vegetation, surrounded by hills and distant mountains under a clear blue sky.
  4
Illustration of a cyclist riding a mountain bike over a winding path, set against a map outline of Georgia. The design includes the text "Georgia State Parks" and "Biker" at the bottom, with earthy colors reflecting outdoor adventure.
  5
A cyclist riding a mountain bike on a snowy trail in a mountainous landscape, with trees lining the path and clouds in the sky.
  2