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Shopping for mountain bikes used to be easy, but now with a plethora of options from various brands, it can be overwhelming. Let us help you! Check out our top 2023 picks for the best mountain bikes.
Once upon a time, shopping for mountain bikes was a breeze. Only a handful of brands produced quality bikes, and even then, there were only a few models to choose from. Fast forward to today, and almost every brand has an extensive and complex lineup, filled with different wheel sizes, geometry options, and suspension travel. It’s now more challenging than ever to determine which type of bike is the best fit for you, but don’t worry – we’re here to simplify things. Check out our top picks for the best mountain bikes in 2023.
From ultralight Cross country whips to pedal-friendly downhill bikes, these standout mountain bikes cover every category. Bikes have never been more capable, reliable, and versatile than they are now, making it an exciting time to be a mountain biker. But with such a big purchase, you want to make sure you’re choosing the right one. That’s why our top picks all feature good, modern geometry, smart component specs, and well-designed suspension for efficient climbs and smooth descents. So why wait? New bike day is just around the corner!
Santa Cruz Hightower
Out of all the amazing aspects of mountain biking, the turns have to be the most exhilarating. Although, navigating through a rock garden comes in at a close second. And nothing beats completing a long journey through multiple trails, starting at sunrise and finishing as the sun sets with bruises, scratches, and adrenaline coursing through your body. But perhaps the ultimate thrill is letting go of the brakes and charging towards a jump, determined to make it across. The Hightower Mountain Bike by Santa Cruz Bicycles understands the importance of all these experiences and excels in every aspect of aggressive trail riding like no other bike can.
The Mountain Bike, Distilled. Photo: Santa Cruz/evo.
- Travel: Front: 150 | Rear: 145.
- Wheel size: 29”
- Price: $3,799.00 – $11,549.
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Santa Cruz Megatower
In the grand scheme of things, you won’t regret choosing the Santa Cruz Bicycles Megatower Mountain Bike. Sure, it may have seemed excessive with its extensive travel capability, hefty brakes, and built-in storage. But mountain biking was your passion, and you wanted the best possible bike for zooming down your favorite trails at top speeds. The S builds from Santa Cruz always find that sweet spot between just enough and way too much, which is precisely where the Megatower shines. It was truly the prime era for mountain biking, and we couldn’t get enough!
A Downhill Bike That Goes Everywhere. Photo: Santa Cruz/evo.
- Travel: Front: 170 | Rear: 165.
- Wheel size: 29”.
- Price: $5,649.00 – $11,699.
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Santa Cruz 5010
The Santa Cruz Bicycles 5010 Mountain Bike is a game changer for trail enthusiasts, with its unmatched ability to discover new lines, transfers, and gaps. It effortlessly navigates through obstacles like a true fun bike. This highly efficient short travel bike is designed to tackle everything from dirt jumps to long backcountry rides, making it surprisingly versatile and perfect for all the playful aspects of mountain biking. It’s like an ebike, but instead of relying on a motor, it runs on pure exhilaration. A “whee-bike,” if you will. In short, the 5010 is the ultimate thrill-seeking bike in real life. Do yourself a favor and get one!
A Two-Wheeled Trail Cheat Code. Photo: Santa Cruz/evo.
- Travel: Front: 140 | Rear: 130.
- Wheel size: Mixed Wheel
- Price: $5299 – $10,649.
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Santa Cruz Tallboy
With a budget-friendly price tag, the Santa Cruz Bicycles Tallboy Mountain Bike surpasses many others in its class. This trail-blazing bike has been designed to be easily accessible to all riders, without fancy electronic shifting or costly carbon parts. Forget wasting time and energy debating over expensive components and construction materials. Get out there and hit the trails with this top-notch bike at your side!
An XC Bike for the Responsible Lunatic. Photo: Santa Cruz/evo.
- Travel: Front: 130 | Rear: 120.
- Wheel size: 29”
- Price: $3,599.00 – $10,399.
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Devinci Marshall A 29 SX 12s
With its versatile geometry, intelligent design, and reliable components, the Devinci Marshall A 29 SX 12s Complete Mountain Bike is a top choice for those looking for value. Its 130mm Split Pivot suspension offers surprisingly smooth handling on rough terrain, complemented by the 140mm suspension in the front for an all-around perfect trail experience. Crafted from lightweight yet resilient aluminum and equipped with durable parts, this mid-travel bike is a smart investment for any avid rider.
Photo: Devinci/evo.
- Travel: Front: 140 | Rear: 130.
- Wheel size: 29”
- Price: $2,649.
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Devinci Spartan Carbon 29 GX 12s
Just when you think things have calmed down, the Devinci Spartan Carbon 29 GX 12s Complete Mountain Bike arrives to knock your current bike out of the water. It has everything you could want: optimal chainstays for each size, a geo flip chip, a high-pivot version of their Split Pivot suspension, and it’s all covered in signature Devinci style. It’s not easy to make such a powerful machine look sleek, but Devinci manages to do it effortlessly every time. A true enduro racer that can handle anything, the Spartan 29 will quickly become your favorite bike.
Devinci Spartan Carbon 29 GX 12s Complete Mountain Bike. Photo: Devinci/evo.
- Travel: Front: 170 | Rear: 160.
- Wheel size: 29”
- Price: $6,199
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