The 2025 Trail Bike of the Year Tournament begins today

Join us as we compare and vote on the eight best trail bikes of 2025, highlighting their features and performance in a head-to-head bracket-style competition.
By Jeff Barber
   Last Updated:
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It’s been said before, and it needs to be said again: today’s mountain bikes, and trail bikes in particular, are so good. But with so many great bikes out there —and new ones being updated and released each year — how do you choose the best one?

You let them duke it out for the top spot.

This year, we’re pitting eight of the best and freshest trail bikes head-to-head and letting you, Singletracks readers, vote on the matchups. Each bike in this year’s bracket is either new or has been updated within the past 18 months or so, and all are worthy of serious consideration.

To compare bikes, we’ll provide an overview and comparison between them, with a focus on frame features over build components. Still, the component spec is an important driver when it comes to price, so we’ll pick comparable builds to help you compare.

So let the games begin! Click on over to our first matchup of the year, the Canyon Spectral vs. the Specialized Stumpjumper 15 EVO, and cast your vote for the 2025 trail bike of the year. May the most supreme trail bike win!

 
A graphic comparing two mountain bikes, the Specialized Stumpjumper and Canyon Spectral, displayed vertical and back-to-back. The background features a misty forest landscape and gradient colors, while the text "VS" is prominently highlighted in the center. The image is marked with a "Best of 2023" badge in the corner.
Trail Bikes
Specialized Stumpjumper 15 EVO vs. Canyon Spectral (Round 1)
A comparison image featuring two mountain bikes: the Pivot Trailcat LT on the left and the Ibis Ripley on the right. Both bikes are showcased in a dynamic pose against a gradient background with a forest silhouette. The word "VS" is prominently displayed in the center, with the text for each bike's name clearly labeled below them. An emblem indicating "Best of 2025" is positioned in the lower right corner.
Trail Bikes
Pivot Trailcat LT vs. Ibis Ripley (Round 1)
Two mountain bikes are displayed prominently against a gradient background featuring mountain silhouettes. On the left is the Santa Cruz Bronson in a green color scheme, while on the right is the Trek Fuel EX in a striking purple design. The bikes are suspended mid-air, showcasing their frame and components. An artistic "VS" symbol in teal and purple is centered between them, with text "SANTA CRUZ BRONSON" below the left bike and "TREK FUEL EX" beneath the right. A logo in the bottom right corner indicates "BEST OF 2025."
Trail Bikes
Santa Cruz Bronson vs. Trek Fuel EX Gen 7 (Round 1)
Two mountain bikers navigate a rocky trail surrounded by greenery. The first rider is ascending the path, showcasing a determined posture, while the second rider follows closely behind. The terrain is rugged with large stones and patches of dirt, under a clear sky.
Trail Bikes
New Pivot MTB shows us where 2025 trail bikes are headed