We're going to take a closer look at our Top 5 bikes of 2017
Just to recap
- 5th - Mondraker - Foxy Carbon
- 4th - Transition Bikes - Scout
- 3rd - Specialized - Enduro Pro Carbon
- 2nd - Santa Cruz - Hightower LT
- 1st - Scott - Genius 700 Tuned
The Spanish brand have been around since 2001, but they really made a name for themselves around 2013, when they first introduced Forward Geometry. In essence this is all about making the geometry longer and they've been at the forefront of this new geometry drive ever since.
We just love the clean lines, layup and colour ways on this model and from what we're told it favours aggressive riding but is equally at home on quick trail centre trails.
Transition Bikes - Scout
Hailing from Bellingham in the USA, The Scout is Transitions mid travel (150mm) powerhouse and sets up light and well balanced. They make a big play of their Speed Balance Geometry which ensures you can take wheel traction to a whole new level. We love the consistency of build and the all around trail slaying feel of this stunning bike.
Specialized - Enduro Pro Carbon
Specialized continue to produce some exceptionally well dialled bikes and this is certainly no exception. With a slacker front end, a longer top tube, shorter chainstays and a lower BB this bike is sure to stick to the trails. We also love the SWAT door on the downtube for a little extra 'enduro' storage.
Santa Cruz - Hightower LT
Why reinvent the wheel! Santa Cruz have simple refined one of the all time best bikes. The 2017 Hightower LT is slightly more DH orientated, thanks to a reworked rear linkage and 150mm of travel. Not cheap, but then with the attention to detail and all around riding pleasure this bike delivers, what's not to love.
Scott - Genius 700 Tuned
So taking top spot for 2017 is the Genius
Aptly named as far as we are concerned. This bike offers up innovation from front to back including the very sleek 1 piece bar and stem. All that tech doesn't add weight though and Scott claim this bike is the lightest trail frame available.
So light, long and slack. That's got to be a recipe for success!
THANKS
All the remains to be said on this is a huge thank you to all the manufacturers, bike shops and of course you guys, our partners, who have put their faith in us in 2017.
We can't wait to see what new geometry, components and layups bike manufacturers dream up for us this year. Here's to an exciting 2018.