THANK YOU. I'm tired of channels reviewing $9,000 bikes. Nobody can afford those. These industry guys seem to think it's normal. Why not review $5,000 version of the same bike? You know? Something that is more realistic at least. 5k bikes are still plenty expensive to have great hardware all around. And at this price point of 2k, most people will consider bikes like these. I think manufacturers need to stop using tektro brakes. Even in low end builds, simply using a shimano brakeset is much much better. Even if they're both cheap, shimano just stops better and feels better. Every tektro brake i've tried on 800-1300 dollar hardtails feels like mushy garbage.
Of course Shimano brakes are better, but they are much more expensive (at the OEM level). There are bikes sold for less than these or more than these- costs need to be controlled at all levels. Better equipment costs more money.
@@bradcomis1066 I can understand tektro brakes on $600-$800 hardtails. I cannot understand using them on anything $999 and up. Sorry, but I don't believe OEM cost is an excuse to use Tektro M275's on a $2000 bike. They are borderline unsafe on anything that isn't flat XC trails. Look at the Calibre Bossnut...people get the bike for 1100 pounds but retail is 1500 pounds(uk only bike, that's around 2k USD), it comes with the same suspension as most bikes in this video, same SX eagle, and it comes with Sram Level T Brakes. These bike manufacturers can afford to use cheap Shimano brakes instead of extra cheap because they suck Tektro's.
@@russelltaylor1500 totally agree. My first bike came with tektro auriga , and the stopping power was more than excellent. I even change the shimano deore for them. They were that good.
@@Greenfrom3 Check out the Diamondback Atroz 2/3 if your lookin for a good full squish on a budget. I ride a 2019 Stumpjumper myself, but bought the atroz 2 for my little brother. Unbelievable bang for your buck. The ride feels great, and it shreds. Would recommend sizing up if your between sizes, as the reach is on the conservative side.
Wow, even better then Pinkbike’s field test! Next up you should do cheap enduro bikes (around 2500$) or hardcore hardtails (around 1000$). But I still think that around this price range used is the way to go, for example I got a bargain 2016 Propain Tyee CF (boost spacing!) for 1400$ with high end parts (1x11 Sram XO1, Monarch Plus...) and just the right geometry (HA 65,5 STA 75,5)
@@thomasli2261 yes of course 1500$ is fine for a nice playful hardtail. If you want a full-sus with nice specks (160mm front and 150mm rear) and an aggressive style check the Nukeproof mega ( the grey versions) I've got mine for 2300$ with a discount.. But for hardtail checks commencal meta ht and the Nukeproof scout they're niceee
Wish I had seen this a few months ago...excellent video and format! Reviews for us real folks for whom $2000 for a bike is a significant purchase...y'all have a new subscriber.
This was the best budget bike review ive ever seen. Most places doing tests like these spend the whole time complaining that the $1800 bike doesnt perform as well as an $8000 bike and therefore, sucks. Then proceed to reccomend "saving up" for the $8000 version. You tested these bikes fairly against each other and gave legitimate highs and very realistic and fair lows. My brother is currently shopping for a bike in this class and price range. Your test just answered the question of which bikes he should be looking at. Great job all round. Side note: Whats up with those shimano 201 brakes. They came on my wifes new bike last year and I had the same experience youve had. They just suck. I wouldnt even let her ride with them and took them off immediately. I get that there has to be a budget brake in the lineup and that cost cutting will result in less breaking performance, but these brakes are borderline not even safe for bikes with 120-130mm of travel designed for descending steep terrain. I wouldnt even put them on my daughters 24 inch hardtail (shes 8).
*** OUR NEW $2,500 MTB TEST IS LIVE! th-cam.com/video/RfPcB4Jar9w/w-d-xo.html *** What did you think about our test and which bikes should we test next? In the video description are timeline links, bike pros/cons lists and links to manufacturer websites to help you out.
i also think you guys should do a freeride or "super enduro" bike comparision test. you could have commencal clash, rocky mountain slayer, yeti sb165 and more. i havent found any videos comparing these bikes and i would love it
Great video. UK guy here trying to push a friend from getting a second hand £500 bike from 10-20 years ago to a £1500-£2000 modern bike. This video is a great help.
@@1ndomitus In my experience if you have good speakers or headphones (monitors alike) audio mix is not an issue.. but who has it? This one is straightforward for every body..
WOW - nearly a year later do I see this video, and quite possibly one of the best if not THE best Comparison Video ever made! No BS - nothing but useful footage & information by real riders. Thanks!!
armando cardenas I’ve got the 2019 trance 3 and that there is already too much bike for me. I’m somewhat of a beginner and this bike has shown me that it can handle terrain I’m not comfortable with yet and then some
Thx, so detailed and helpful! Especially hearing per-feature comparisons within bikes in a price range. Your review helped me settle on getting an Abajo Peak (superior component spec, no obvious weak points). It can be hard to find reviews so I was very grateful to have a roundup this comprehensive. You guys did an amazing job.
The most intelligent thing to do specially at this time of the year is search for bikes from last season. They often have very nice discounts. Great review and video, nice to see some bikes that I dont have to sell my house to buy.
i tried exactly this and toughed it out all summer lol. I was not able to find my size or model by the end... So i ordered my 2020 Rocky mountain thunderbolt!
One of the best bike review vids I've seen. Honest evaluations of the Pros and Cons of each bike. A refreshing change from the rah-rah all -positive nonsense we get from so many industry rags. Subscribed. PS: I used to live in Idaho Falls
A terrific and comprehensive shootout on bikes people can actually afford in 2019. Magazines continually review cost-no-object rides that most could only dream of riding without going into a massive consumer-debt peril. Keep these coming!
Ended up buying the Giant based on this review and the fact that it was easiest to get my hands on. Was definitely a superb buy, the Stance is absolulety what you said it would be, ups and downs. Many have commented that this is the most interesting price point, and I could not agree more. These are the first full suspension bikes for many (like me), and in-depth reviews/comparisons such as this are just too hard to come by. Thanks guys, you helped a ton (well, actually you helped me spend two, since I will be gettin some front brake upgrade as you suggested).
Very good and understandable review on these bikes. I’ve been strongly considering the Vitus VRX and this review keeps me convinced that I wouldn’t go wrong with that bike.
Thank you for the review! I'd be interested in a entry level Enduro bike comparison including recommendations how you would spend an extra 200 - 300$ for upgrades. Thanx in advance! Keep up the good work!
Love your review, and I super, super, super appreciate your summary in the notes section highlighting the good and bad things about each bike and the time in the review for each bike. You guys are awesome - keep it up. P.S. My brother and folks live in Boise - I hope to someday live there, too!
fantastic review. I especially like the part where you indicate the next upgrade(s) that you would perform on each bike. So much better than telling folks to go buy $8k (or more) bikes. It is nice to know that it actually IS possible to ride a $2K bike aggressively. Most folks watching this video do not have the skills that you guys have, so these bikes should perform very well for them.
This video is a bless. For nowadays "budget" full-sus bikes gives you so much performance for their price, but saddly, usually, nobody reviews them. In my opinion it's most common bikes on a trails, and most demanded by riders. And as we see, they are pretty different in spec list and riding characteristycs. Really want to see these kind of videos every year, to know how improved modern bikes in most common category. Also it's be nice to see every year review on actual trail hardtails for 1000-1500$.
@@Vidmantas969 Law of diminishing returns. The more money you spend, the more minute the differences become to the point where you're just wasting money. Unless you're professionally racing and every ounce counts and every minute detail has to be perfect, there's not point. The only purpose to that is to either feed your ego or because spending that much on a bike satisfies some obsession. I guess some people do that just because they can and it makes them feel justified in some way.
Probably one of the best reviews so far I have seen for the regular guy!!!! Thank you!... Not everyone can spend 3 grand and up on a bike so this was right on point for me!!! Very helpful!!!! 👍👌💪
Great review, I bought a Norco Fluid FS-3 about a month ago. I really enjoy the bike. I wish you would do this review earlier in the year. You're absolutely right on with the brakes. Thanks
THANK YOU! Finally, somebody in the know reviews real world bikes that real-world people purchase and ride. I have been a serious trail rider for the past 3 years. Before I fell in love with trail riding if you told me a bike was $2,000.00 I would have laughed in your face and told you that you're crazy. I started with a budget Giant Bike I purchased on craigslist, hardtail of course. I recently finished a custom build on a hardtail and I love it. I have been thinking about my first full-suspension bike and this video tells me exactly what I had already decided. I will be purchasing the Giant or spending a little more on its bigger brother. I have 2 local dealers and that local support is why. I see there are several capable bikes in my 2k price range. MORE CONTENT LIKE THIS PLEASE! Bikes for the average real-world mountain biker! That's what we all need and want.
@@MrChangCJ I have to wait with everything going on. I really prefer the 27.5 wheels...after all consideration I will be getting the Giant when the time comes.. It is the best value and bike for the money. Thanks!
I've always bought top end bikes, recently bought a Scott genius 960 as a 2nd bike, for what's considered entry level components it's amazing just how good the bike is. The bomber z2 fork is more than good enough. My other rise has top of the line fox factory 36 and Kashima throughout with DI2. The 1x12 eagle SX changes gears 99% as good as DI2. There's a lot of kidology and marketing going on. The only thing I would change on the 960 is a decent set of wheels as I like the feel of a quicker engaging rear hub.
Super informative, great video. I appreciate that you took the time to define some of the lingo throughout, given that these bikes are targeted towards people who might not know all that stuff yet (myself included). Same goes for describing geometry not only with numbers but also with qualitative words (eg super long reach). That puts it seriously ahead of other reviews I've watched. My only ask would be for some kind of re-cap at the end, IMO this big of a review begs for a chart. All the info was in the video, but rather than have to re-watch all 20 minutes it's nice to just say "this bike was best downhill, this bike is best out of the box, this is the one we would buy, this bike would win if it had better brakes, I can't recommend this bike," etc.
Mountain biking really is a hobby for more upper middle class people, and it isn't something that's talked about. A few things in the sport are inexpensive, but most things are strangely high in price.
I have a 2015 Specialized Enduro with a Pike fork and pretty solid components. Was about 3200 MSRP. Im having trouble getting 1100 for it because it has 26 inch wheels. There are some deals to be had if you keep an eye out.
Great test! I know what couple of bikes you all helped me narrow my search for now. I'd love to see, (hopefully alot of us), the same type of test done on some trail worthy, slack, and capable hardtail 29ers next. Keep up the amazing tests and please consider the trail hardtail 29er option done in the same great way this test was executed!!!! Cheers.
Great stuff. Could I ask how tall were the testers? I'm interested in a Rift Zone and I am 176cm. The charts say I'd be a Medium but my current bikes (Giant and Trek) I've gone for a large as the Mediums felt to short. Would be interested to hear how tall you are and what you thought of the Medium rift zone fit. Thanks.
You’re on the upper edge of medium size, so you might be ok sizing up... however bike sizing can be unique between brands, so I’d recommend (if possible) seeing if you can try a Rift Zone out at a local bike shop. That’s the best way to find an answer to this question. Keep in mind wheel size is going to affect how the bike feels too.
Thanks for reviewing these bikes that are more feasible. I just bought more than entry level because it was available during these strange covid times.
Such a great video! Super informative and not biased, well done:) I would definitely like to see your thoughts on the 2000-2500 price range as well seeing as there is a pretty big jumps in performance and components for not too much more.
That Vitus is fire. I just don't know if I'll feel embarrassed riding that thing. But the whole colorway looks like th nukeproof reactor RS. I know that rear suspension is different but from a glance with the red bomber z2 fork.
@@epicwarrior1018 there is no buzz around the brand and no forums or communities for me to get any info on. Their main bikes such as the escarpe and the Sommet have been around a bit but no body talks about them nor can i find any real owners info on them. I know nukeproof is also owner by crc and I ride a nukeproof but you have Sam hill winning ews on them and you have guys on gmbn riding the scout and the megas. I still really want this bike since it comes with a good fork and shock. I will swap out the drivetrain and brakes to a lesser bike. My original plan was to buy a santa cruz 5010 and build it from the frame up or a nukeproof reactor frame but this bike comes along with actual useful parts and the whole bike cost what the frame cost on those brands . But the brand just isn't as cool to me.
@@s14tat Colin Ross rides for Vitus and the brand is pretty heavily praised on the mtb subreddit. Just ride what you think looks cool/fits your needs dude! I just ordered the VRX in 27.5 and I actually think it looks sick. Think it'll get a lot of attention for sure.
@@BEEK335 for sure. I probably will end up with the mythique vrx in a 29er sometime next year. The nukeproof scout will be my fun bike and the mythique will be the fast bike.
I know right. These bikes are TOP OF THE LINE for what 95% of us will ever need to get. Better parts than this is useless luxury for everyone but pro downhillers and big air jumpers. If you have a cheap bike and it's not fun you're not riding places that suit that bike.
This video is perfect. I'm actually looking in the market for a MTB in the $2,000 range. Good comparison. Now I have more knowledge in completing my research and coming toa conclusion. Thank you guys.
Considering these are entry level bikes, people that buy/ride them aren’t going to be anywhere near the speed/capability of those test riders, and consequently entry level brakes are going to be adequate until they progress and prob upgrade the whole bike anyway
1/2 Thank you for this video. As a budget hardtail (upgraded) owner that's looking into full sus for next season I honestly can't say how much I appreciate this review. I live in Ontario and ride "flat" gnarly rooty ungroomed trails and then try to keep up with my wife on her gravel bike the other half of the time. So weight and pedal efficiency are top priority for me. The Stance stood out in this review to me. If anyone reading this comment has any suggestions to an aspiring full sus owner, I'm all ears.
In-depth Video!... Me.... A very tech oriented 2nd season rider looking to go FS, I have been doing some serious research on the geometry of the new bikes coming out for 2020. Your video touched on every point I'm looking for, not only that, you detail the cost difference to the model up. As for " Those Brakes", The only original thing left on my 2018 fluid ht are "Those Brakes"!!. After losing some weight with Baron/Hopes, Maxxis recons, Grid crank, and a Pike Ultimate ,I tried 180mm rotors and still got the exact front feeling you guys did, forget the the rear it's the one i rely on at 160mm. These will make you to use the rears more, and now im coming in hot. They are the VERY bottom of their line, Magura mt5 were the way to go, but now it's a whole new game.
Awesome review guys. Nice to have the info on some budget friendly bikes. This will definitely help getting more people into the sport. Would love to see a review on new trail fat bikes like the Rocky Mountain Blizzard 50 and such. Keep killing it 🤟
I really like this way of reviewing! I think better than any of the "Name Brand" reviewers. I'd like to see you all review this number of bikes in incremental cost. It would be good to see a series of on-line order bikes, and LBS supported bikes, then compare the best from both worlds. I could have bought a Canyon or YT (great bikes) but I wanted to support my LBS. Nice job! I'm going with the Giant Trance 2--27.5. My LBS is putting on some aftermarket goodies now.
Amazing video. Has Vital ever done Polygon reviews? I would love to see something like a D5, D7, & T7 comparison video because I think a lot of people are turning their heads that way now but are very concerned of the actual ride feel and long term durability.
Teddy Parker I have a 2020 d5 and I can say it’s a good bike besides the slow shifting and the coil fork may not be for everyone if your not a decent sized person but slap on a new air fork and you have your self a great steal for a full squish
THANK YOU. I'm tired of channels reviewing $9,000 bikes. Nobody can afford those. These industry guys seem to think it's normal. Why not review $5,000 version of the same bike? You know? Something that is more realistic at least. 5k bikes are still plenty expensive to have great hardware all around. And at this price point of 2k, most people will consider bikes like these.
I think manufacturers need to stop using tektro brakes. Even in low end builds, simply using a shimano brakeset is much much better. Even if they're both cheap, shimano just stops better and feels better. Every tektro brake i've tried on 800-1300 dollar hardtails feels like mushy garbage.
Of course Shimano brakes are better, but they are much more expensive (at the OEM level). There are bikes sold for less than these or more than these- costs need to be controlled at all levels. Better equipment costs more money.
@@bradcomis1066 I can understand tektro brakes on $600-$800 hardtails. I cannot understand using them on anything $999 and up. Sorry, but I don't believe OEM cost is an excuse to use Tektro M275's on a $2000 bike. They are borderline unsafe on anything that isn't flat XC trails. Look at the Calibre Bossnut...people get the bike for 1100 pounds but retail is 1500 pounds(uk only bike, that's around 2k USD), it comes with the same suspension as most bikes in this video, same SX eagle, and it comes with Sram Level T Brakes. These bike manufacturers can afford to use cheap Shimano brakes instead of extra cheap because they suck Tektro's.
Its sad that Trek on their 2020 powerfly ebike has the same shitty tektro brakes
The TRP slates on my £1250 hard tail have been exellent, good power and modulation.
@@russelltaylor1500 totally agree. My first bike came with tektro auriga , and the stopping power was more than excellent. I even change the shimano deore for them. They were that good.
This was an excellent video. Hard to find reviews of bikes that are in most peoples price range. Kudos 👏🏼👏🏼
thanks @J B
so true! came to say the same!
2k thats normal tf
@Javier Estrella what bike did you get?
@@Greenfrom3 Check out the Diamondback Atroz 2/3 if your lookin for a good full squish on a budget. I ride a 2019 Stumpjumper myself, but bought the atroz 2 for my little brother. Unbelievable bang for your buck. The ride feels great, and it shreds. Would recommend sizing up if your between sizes, as the reach is on the conservative side.
You got me like:
"I want this"
*Next bike
Me: "nah i want this"
Wow, even better then Pinkbike’s field test! Next up you should do cheap enduro bikes (around 2500$) or hardcore hardtails (around 1000$). But I still think that around this price range used is the way to go, for example I got a bargain 2016 Propain Tyee CF (boost spacing!) for 1400$ with high end parts (1x11 Sram XO1, Monarch Plus...) and just the right geometry (HA 65,5 STA 75,5)
Hardcore hardtails are more expensive than $1000....
Mr. Popo Well then 1500$ should be enough right?
i would definitely want to see a cheap enduro test.2500 sounds good. At 3000 you are getting pretty awesome bikes .
@@thomasli2261 yes of course 1500$ is fine for a nice playful hardtail. If you want a full-sus with nice specks (160mm front and 150mm rear) and an aggressive style check the Nukeproof mega ( the grey versions) I've got mine for 2300$ with a discount.. But for hardtail checks commencal meta ht and the Nukeproof scout they're niceee
@@conman1395 Vitus Sentier checks that box.
A short recap would be nice at the end. Great video, keep it up ;)
Wish I had seen this a few months ago...excellent video and format!
Reviews for us real folks for whom $2000 for a bike is a significant purchase...y'all have a new subscriber.
8:52 was my personal favorite part of the whole video
This is so much more informative than the bikemag reviews. Thanks.
Fantastic production, hats off to the entire team at Vital MTB. Well done!
This was the best budget bike review ive ever seen. Most places doing tests like these spend the whole time complaining that the $1800 bike doesnt perform as well as an $8000 bike and therefore, sucks. Then proceed to reccomend "saving up" for the $8000 version. You tested these bikes fairly against each other and gave legitimate highs and very realistic and fair lows. My brother is currently shopping for a bike in this class and price range. Your test just answered the question of which bikes he should be looking at. Great job all round.
Side note: Whats up with those shimano 201 brakes. They came on my wifes new bike last year and I had the same experience youve had. They just suck. I wouldnt even let her ride with them and took them off immediately. I get that there has to be a budget brake in the lineup and that cost cutting will result in less breaking performance, but these brakes are borderline not even safe for bikes with 120-130mm of travel designed for descending steep terrain. I wouldnt even put them on my daughters 24 inch hardtail (shes 8).
*** OUR NEW $2,500 MTB TEST IS LIVE! th-cam.com/video/RfPcB4Jar9w/w-d-xo.html ***
What did you think about our test and which bikes should we test next? In the video description are timeline links, bike pros/cons lists and links to manufacturer websites to help you out.
Thank you VITAL MTB so much for this test!
Finally test of normal bikes that average joe can buy.
🙂👍
Budget (Up to $3000) Enduro Bikes! Maybe Transition Patrol NX (Coil), Nukeproof Mega, etc or 27.5 enduro bikes.
@@alexanderteo293 oh man! there are SO many capable bikes from $2500 to $3000. i like it.
Exactly what I want to see
i also think you guys should do a freeride or "super enduro" bike comparision test. you could have commencal clash, rocky mountain slayer, yeti sb165 and more. i havent found any videos comparing these bikes and i would love it
Great video. UK guy here trying to push a friend from getting a second hand £500 bike from 10-20 years ago to a £1500-£2000 modern bike.
This video is a great help.
This is the most comprehensive budget bike review I’ve seen. 👍
This is one of the best MTB-videos i have seen yet to date!
- Whats good, Whats bad, and what to upgrade!
Keep it comming! Make more tests please :D
LOVE my Commencal Meta. Got it for $2,000 earlier this year and it is stellar for the price.
Model and year?
epic warrior the 2020 tr is insane
Review without backround music? Bold but awesome..
Yeah, I don't mind music if it's appropriate in both taste & *VOLUME!*
@@1ndomitus In my experience if you have good speakers or headphones (monitors alike) audio mix is not an issue.. but who has it? This one is straightforward for every body..
Much prefer not to have music at all.
this is quickly becoming my favorite bike channel, thanks for keeping grounded, 2K is right about where I feel comfortable spending (in 2 years)
WOW - nearly a year later do I see this video, and quite possibly one of the best if not THE best Comparison Video ever made! No BS - nothing but useful footage & information by real riders. Thanks!!
Amazing! Past this level of bikes but I still love hearing about them. Vital does not get enough free for their work, major props🤘🤘
Great video I go to the eagle bike park all the time so it’s cool that you guys made a video riding on it.
I think this is the best blue collar review on the net. About time! I have the Orbea Occam that was at the 2500 mark, love that bike
I am very , very happy with my humble Giant Trance 3 27.5 2020 …. it is not about owning the most expensive bike but enjoying the one that you own .
This! Agree 100%!
@@PowerSports I love Giants . Always have .
armando cardenas I’ve got the 2019 trance 3 and that there is already too much bike for me. I’m somewhat of a beginner and this bike has shown me that it can handle terrain I’m not comfortable with yet and then some
@@armandojuan64 giant's warranty is very good from Australia
OMG!!! I live in Boise ID and watching this high quality footage of my local trails was craaaaaazy. DEFINITELY a bit of Go-pro effect going on.
Go pro effect?
@@ЕвгениГеоргиев-т1я trails look less steep and easier on a gopro than they are in real life
Thx, so detailed and helpful! Especially hearing per-feature comparisons within bikes in a price range. Your review helped me settle on getting an Abajo Peak (superior component spec, no obvious weak points). It can be hard to find reviews so I was very grateful to have a roundup this comprehensive. You guys did an amazing job.
Great to hear!
FINALLY... Someone reviews mtb’s in this price range
The lack of backing music lends the entire vid a zen like, calm quality. Very refreshing!
The most intelligent thing to do specially at this time of the year is search for bikes from last season. They often have very nice discounts. Great review and video, nice to see some bikes that I dont have to sell my house to buy.
i tried exactly this and toughed it out all summer lol. I was not able to find my size or model by the end... So i ordered my 2020 Rocky mountain thunderbolt!
Yeah, maybe pre-Cvd but with all these new bikers it’s hard to find availability for last season bikes 😩😔
Excellent review! Thank you for indexing each bike review with the time stamp in the description! 🤙
One of the best bike review vids I've seen. Honest evaluations of the Pros and Cons of each bike. A refreshing change from the rah-rah all -positive nonsense we get from so many industry rags. Subscribed. PS: I used to live in Idaho Falls
Much needed test! Thank you for focusing on the lower budget bikes! More of these types of reviews please!
The amount of work put into this video is just insane
A terrific and comprehensive shootout on bikes people can actually afford in 2019. Magazines continually review cost-no-object rides that most could only dream of riding without going into a massive consumer-debt peril. Keep these coming!
Ended up buying the Giant based on this review and the fact that it was easiest to get my hands on. Was definitely a superb buy, the Stance is absolulety what you said it would be, ups and downs.
Many have commented that this is the most interesting price point, and I could not agree more. These are the first full suspension bikes for many (like me), and in-depth reviews/comparisons such as this are just too hard to come by. Thanks guys, you helped a ton (well, actually you helped me spend two, since I will be gettin some front brake upgrade as you suggested).
Very good and understandable review on these bikes. I’ve been strongly considering the Vitus VRX and this review keeps me convinced that I wouldn’t go wrong with that bike.
Thank you for the review! I'd be interested in a entry level Enduro bike comparison including recommendations how you would spend an extra 200 - 300$ for upgrades. Thanx in advance! Keep up the good work!
Very thorough review. It’s nice to see at the $2k mark that shredding is not really hampered.
Love your review, and I super, super, super appreciate your summary in the notes section highlighting the good and bad things about each bike and the time in the review for each bike. You guys are awesome - keep it up. P.S. My brother and folks live in Boise - I hope to someday live there, too!
fantastic review. I especially like the part where you indicate the next upgrade(s) that you would perform on each bike. So much better than telling folks to go buy $8k (or more) bikes. It is nice to know that it actually IS possible to ride a $2K bike aggressively. Most folks watching this video do not have the skills that you guys have, so these bikes should perform very well for them.
where are canyon bikes? they most of the time wins all tests and they also have 2k modells...
There are shops periodically here and there. There's one where I am in Carlsbad California but I haven't popped over there yet although I mean to
This video is a bless.
For nowadays "budget" full-sus bikes gives you so much performance for their price, but saddly, usually, nobody reviews them. In my opinion it's most common bikes on a trails, and most demanded by riders. And as we see, they are pretty different in spec list and riding characteristycs. Really want to see these kind of videos every year, to know how improved modern bikes in most common category. Also it's be nice to see every year review on actual trail hardtails for 1000-1500$.
Great video for normal people! As others have said, would love to see a $2500 budget enduro list.
Not looking for a bike but this is a quality review, great job guys, subscribed
The Giant Stance has probably the best $200 upgrade out there, the Giant Trance. The Trance 29er has gotten absolutely rave reviews.
Loved this comparison review. Quick, to the point, comprehensive. Thanks!
I like how everyone is like oh a cheap 2,000 dollar bike I have a 200 bike lol
yeah these featured bikes in video is more suitable for casual city driving. Good entry level bikes start at 6k dollar mark.
Vidmantas Šulskis stfu 😂😂😂
@@Vidmantas969 omg lol
Vidmantas Šulskis You we’re either high or joking when you wrote this
@@Vidmantas969 Law of diminishing returns. The more money you spend, the more minute the differences become to the point where you're just wasting money. Unless you're professionally racing and every ounce counts and every minute detail has to be perfect, there's not point. The only purpose to that is to either feed your ego or because spending that much on a bike satisfies some obsession. I guess some people do that just because they can and it makes them feel justified in some way.
Probably one of the best reviews so far I have seen for the regular guy!!!! Thank you!... Not everyone can spend 3 grand and up on a bike so this was right on point for me!!! Very helpful!!!! 👍👌💪
See if you guys can wrangle up a batch of 27.5 bikes next.
Great review, I bought a Norco Fluid FS-3 about a month ago. I really enjoy the bike. I wish you
would do this review earlier in the year. You're absolutely right on with the brakes. Thanks
Giant Trance 3
no
Great Video and really informative for riders looking for a good first good bike
X Fusion suspension is making a comeback
THANK YOU! Finally, somebody in the know reviews real world bikes that real-world people purchase and ride. I have been a serious trail rider for the past 3 years. Before I fell in love with trail riding if you told me a bike was $2,000.00 I would have laughed in your face and told you that you're crazy. I started with a budget Giant Bike I purchased on craigslist, hardtail of course. I recently finished a custom build on a hardtail and I love it. I have been thinking about my first full-suspension bike and this video tells me exactly what I had already decided. I will be purchasing the Giant or spending a little more on its bigger brother. I have 2 local dealers and that local support is why. I see there are several capable bikes in my 2k price range. MORE CONTENT LIKE THIS PLEASE! Bikes for the average real-world mountain biker! That's what we all need and want.
What did you decide to get! I've been seeing comments that the Trance 3 29er is a better deal for just a little more $.
@@MrChangCJ I have to wait with everything going on. I really prefer the 27.5 wheels...after all consideration I will be getting the Giant when the time comes.. It is the best value and bike for the money. Thanks!
I've always bought top end bikes, recently bought a Scott genius 960 as a 2nd bike, for what's considered entry level components it's amazing just how good the bike is. The bomber z2 fork is more than good enough. My other rise has top of the line fox factory 36 and Kashima throughout with DI2. The 1x12 eagle SX changes gears 99% as good as DI2. There's a lot of kidology and marketing going on. The only thing I would change on the 960 is a decent set of wheels as I like the feel of a quicker engaging rear hub.
Super informative, great video. I appreciate that you took the time to define some of the lingo throughout, given that these bikes are targeted towards people who might not know all that stuff yet (myself included). Same goes for describing geometry not only with numbers but also with qualitative words (eg super long reach). That puts it seriously ahead of other reviews I've watched.
My only ask would be for some kind of re-cap at the end, IMO this big of a review begs for a chart. All the info was in the video, but rather than have to re-watch all 20 minutes it's nice to just say "this bike was best downhill, this bike is best out of the box, this is the one we would buy, this bike would win if it had better brakes, I can't recommend this bike," etc.
Man, I appreciate the work you put in here but if $2k is "entry level" then I'll never own an mtb.
mrkthmn It’s entry level for a full suspension
Go used.
Mountain biking really is a hobby for more upper middle class people, and it isn't something that's talked about. A few things in the sport are inexpensive, but most things are strangely high in price.
I have a 2015 Specialized Enduro with a Pike fork and pretty solid components. Was about 3200 MSRP. Im having trouble getting 1100 for it because it has 26 inch wheels. There are some deals to be had if you keep an eye out.
I bought a hardtail for $250 and it served me well. There are plenty of trails you can take it at
Great test! I know what couple of bikes you all helped me narrow my search for now.
I'd love to see, (hopefully alot of us), the same type of test done on some trail worthy, slack, and capable hardtail 29ers next.
Keep up the amazing tests and please consider the trail hardtail 29er option done in the same great way this test was executed!!!!
Cheers.
Great stuff. Could I ask how tall were the testers? I'm interested in a Rift Zone and I am 176cm. The charts say I'd be a Medium but my current bikes (Giant and Trek) I've gone for a large as the Mediums felt to short. Would be interested to hear how tall you are and what you thought of the Medium rift zone fit. Thanks.
You’re on the upper edge of medium size, so you might be ok sizing up... however bike sizing can be unique between brands, so I’d recommend (if possible) seeing if you can try a Rift Zone out at a local bike shop. That’s the best way to find an answer to this question.
Keep in mind wheel size is going to affect how the bike feels too.
Great video guys, I'm that much closer to narrowing down my choice of bike. 👍👍
I laughed when the bikes fell, this is a valuable video
Thanks for reviewing these bikes that are more feasible. I just bought more than entry level because it was available during these strange covid times.
In escence, MTB has become very expensive, I'm very happy with my Giant Trance. I think that the bike doesn´t make the rider...
Thinking of getting a Trance👊🏼👍🏼🚵🏽
I have a 15 trance. Its fucking sick.
Yea it’s crazy. It’s nowadays normal to have 15 k on different bikes
Still riding my 2013 trance x3 and ill be riding it until parts are non existent or if the frame snaps
Such a great video! Super informative and not biased, well done:) I would definitely like to see your thoughts on the 2000-2500 price range as well seeing as there is a pretty big jumps in performance and components for not too much more.
totally agree that if you jump to the $2500 range, you can get some really good builds
That Vitus is fire. I just don't know if I'll feel embarrassed riding that thing. But the whole colorway looks like th nukeproof reactor RS. I know that rear suspension is different but from a glance with the red bomber z2 fork.
Why would you feel embarrassed?
@@epicwarrior1018 there is no buzz around the brand and no forums or communities for me to get any info on. Their main bikes such as the escarpe and the Sommet have been around a bit but no body talks about them nor can i find any real owners info on them. I know nukeproof is also owner by crc and I ride a nukeproof but you have Sam hill winning ews on them and you have guys on gmbn riding the scout and the megas. I still really want this bike since it comes with a good fork and shock. I will swap out the drivetrain and brakes to a lesser bike.
My original plan was to buy a santa cruz 5010 and build it from the frame up or a nukeproof reactor frame but this bike comes along with actual useful parts and the whole bike cost what the frame cost on those brands . But the brand just isn't as cool to me.
@@s14tat Colin Ross rides for Vitus and the brand is pretty heavily praised on the mtb subreddit. Just ride what you think looks cool/fits your needs dude! I just ordered the VRX in 27.5 and I actually think it looks sick. Think it'll get a lot of attention for sure.
@@BEEK335 for sure. I probably will end up with the mythique vrx in a 29er sometime next year. The nukeproof scout will be my fun bike and the mythique will be the fast bike.
@Tacoma M. Lol. Yeah it's admittedly a very snobby thing to do.
I’ve been up all night reaserching and this video just helps me so much. Thank you for making such a good video!!!!!
I tough they were going to test the Scott spark 970? Similar price
I love how the mountainbike industry calls a $2000 bike "budget". This just goes to show how expensive of a hobby or passion mountain biking is
Budget?
Man I’m poor!👨🏻🦰
That’s mountain biking for ya
Vincent Foss $2000 is cheap? 🙀WTF?
TheKaiTetley it’s not cheap at all I shred a £500 hardtail.
William Walker no it’s not lol
I know right.
These bikes are TOP OF THE LINE for what 95% of us will ever need to get.
Better parts than this is useless luxury for everyone but pro downhillers and big air jumpers.
If you have a cheap bike and it's not fun you're not riding places that suit that bike.
This is video I been waiting for! Thanks for the test and recommendations
That vitus is a good deal the z2 fork is meant to be real good
This video is perfect. I'm actually looking in the market for a MTB in the $2,000 range. Good comparison. Now I have more knowledge in completing my research and coming toa conclusion. Thank you guys.
How come the giant almost didn’t get included because of the head angle?
It's steep
@@nalrasko402 meaning what? That it's too close to the downhill category?
@@theGiver3 lmao no, closer to xc, dh bikes are slacker
@@nalrasko402 gotcha
Theres the new trance 3 now for $2100 that embarrasses all of these bikes spec wise honestly
Awesome, I love comparison tests like this !
Diamondback Release??!!
@Jackson Archambault Plus a 66.5 head tube angle.....no go!
@@LarryRichelli why 66.5 head angle is no go? I don't get it..
Great review/comparison
I wouldn't call 2 grand a budget mountain bike, but then again I use a hardtail for downhill because I'm broke af.
May want to get a better paying job.
awesome to see these models reviewed! ultimately though, it takes a beast to keep up with group rides on these steeds.
30€ brake sets on 2k bikes that is absolutely absurd.
Actually wonder how much all the parts cost.
Purchased the Fezzari, and glad I did, Bike came less than 2 weeks after ordering it. Great value. great bike!!
There's no way he just said $2,000 dollars as a budget mtb
Why not? What shitty ass bike do you ride?
It is. Any full sus cheaper and it will break very quickly with any serious riding. It's better to buy once than buy many garbage bikes
@@durrantmiller8810 and probably thinks that $125,000+ Vette in his avatar is a budget car too. 🤦♂️
@@glennnichols4220 its a pagani so it's actually a few million
@@durrantmiller8810 well then he doesnt own that let alone a Vette. Because he wouldn't be complaining about a 2k mountain bike if he was in the sport
I loved the video! What a real budget comparison!
I was surprised when you we’re testing at the bike park I usually go to is this company based in eagle or Boise?
I got Norco fluid fs 3 just yesterday can’t wait to test how it’s done lol 😂 excitement lol
Considering these are entry level bikes, people that buy/ride them aren’t going to be anywhere near the speed/capability of those test riders, and consequently entry level brakes are going to be adequate until they progress and prob upgrade the whole bike anyway
1/2 Thank you for this video. As a budget hardtail (upgraded) owner that's looking into full sus for next season I honestly can't say how much I appreciate this review. I live in Ontario and ride "flat" gnarly rooty ungroomed trails and then try to keep up with my wife on her gravel bike the other half of the time. So weight and pedal efficiency are top priority for me. The Stance stood out in this review to me. If anyone reading this comment has any suggestions to an aspiring full sus owner, I'm all ears.
“Budget”
Also why only 29ers
Faris Guerouate well they are for full sus mountain bikes worth buying
In-depth Video!... Me.... A very tech oriented 2nd season rider looking to go FS, I have been doing some serious research on the geometry of the new bikes coming out for 2020. Your video touched on every point I'm looking for, not only that, you detail the cost difference to the model up.
As for " Those Brakes", The only original thing left on my 2018 fluid ht are "Those Brakes"!!.
After losing some weight with Baron/Hopes, Maxxis recons, Grid crank, and a Pike Ultimate ,I tried 180mm rotors and still got the exact front feeling you guys did, forget the the rear it's the one i rely on at 160mm. These will make you to use the rears more, and now im coming in hot.
They are the VERY bottom of their line, Magura mt5 were the way to go, but now it's a whole new game.
8:55 lol
Great content. I subscribed, liked and saved the video
👍
Awesome review guys. Nice to have the info on some budget friendly bikes. This will definitely help getting more people into the sport. Would love to see a review on new trail fat bikes like the Rocky Mountain Blizzard 50 and such. Keep killing it 🤟
$2000 budget? Nahhh man that’s still out of my range😅. $500-$750 review?
Great test I love the premise next could you please review affordable Enduro bikes
2 grand budget hmm
Good review! I would like to hear about the Commencal trail 29 line! Ty!
Budget😂
finding this video in 2022 and can tell you a few of these bikes have increased pretty significantly
this is the best, well put together comparison on TH-cam. Video chapter links and all the bikes listed with details in the description
Glad you liked it!
I really like this way of reviewing! I think better than any of the "Name Brand" reviewers. I'd like to see you all review this number of bikes in incremental cost. It would be good to see a series of on-line order bikes, and LBS supported bikes, then compare the best from both worlds. I could have bought a Canyon or YT (great bikes) but I wanted to support my LBS. Nice job! I'm going with the Giant Trance 2--27.5. My LBS is putting on some aftermarket goodies now.
Amazing video. Has Vital ever done Polygon reviews? I would love to see something like a D5, D7, & T7 comparison video because I think a lot of people are turning their heads that way now but are very concerned of the actual ride feel and long term durability.
Teddy Parker I have a 2020 d5 and I can say it’s a good bike besides the slow shifting and the coil fork may not be for everyone if your not a decent sized person but slap on a new air fork and you have your self a great steal for a full squish
Thank you!! , this video helped alot. You got yourself a sub