Sub-10kg (22lb) has long been the gold standard for Lightweight Mountain Bikes. However, with modern cross-country (XC) courses demanding more technical skills and riders opting for wider tires and dropper posts, achieving that sub-10kg benchmark is increasingly challenging. While hitting that exact weight might be rarer, many brands still offer hardtails and even some of the best full-suspension mountain bikes that dip below the 10kg mark.
While the real-world riding difference between a 10.2kg and a 9.8kg bike might be negligible, the psychological boost and bragging rights of owning a sub-10kg machine are undeniable. The evolution of XC riding, with its demands for 29-inch wheels, robust tires, and capable forks, makes hitting that weight target tougher than ever. Larger wheels, tires, and forks inherently add weight compared to older 27.5in or 26in wheel sizes. However, the improved rolling speed of 29ers is now essential for XC performance. Even top racers like Nino Schurter are increasingly using wider 2.4in tires, and many favor wide rims and handlebars.
Dropper posts, crucial for enhanced control on technical descents, are now standard for most racers despite adding 400-500g over fixed posts. Similarly, the prevalence of wide-range cassettes and efficient 1x drivetrains, while simplifying gear changes, can sometimes be heavier than older double chainring setups. Remote lockouts for the best XC forks, essential for maximizing climbing efficiency, also contribute to the overall weight.
Guy Kesteven riding the Scott Scale RC SL 2023
Best Lightweight Mountain Bikes Under 10kg: Our Top Picks
1. Best Lightweight XC Bike: Cervelo ZHT-5
The Cervelo ZHT-5 studio shot with Bike Perfect Editors Choice badge
Cervelo ZHT-5
Key Features: Super light, exceptional ride quality
Expert Review Highlight: “Outstanding grip and fatigue smoothing, feisty kick and precise targeting.”
Specifications:
- Weight: 8.8kg
- Suspension Travel: 100mm (front hardtail)
- Groupset: SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptional grip and vibration damping for a hardtail.
- Lively acceleration and precise handling.
- Race-ready lightweight frame with a lifetime guarantee.
- Agile and responsive for XC riding.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Steep, race-oriented geometry may not suit all riders.
- Limited availability in some regions.
- Frameset not sold separately for custom builds.
- Headset cable routing can be complex.
Cervelo, renowned for its road racing pedigree, has entered the mountain bike arena with the ZHT-5 hardtail and its full-suspension counterpart, the ZFS-5. While the ZFS-5 full-suspension model slightly exceeds the 10kg mark, the ZHT-5 effortlessly achieves it. However, the ZHT-5’s appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Its low weight translates to rapid acceleration and nimble climbing, but tester Guy Kesteven discovered it delivers surprising confidence and grip for a race-focused hardtail.
In his initial ride review, Guy noted, “There was consistently more cornering and lean-in grip than anticipated. Focusing ahead on the trail, rather than dwelling on technical details, the ZHT-5 tracked with laser-like precision, delivering a truly exhilarating ride.”
For an in-depth look, read the full Cervelo ZHT-5 hardtail first ride review.
2. Best Value Lightweight XC Bike: Canyon Exceed CFR LTD
Canyon Exceed CFR LTD bike shot with best value badge
Canyon Exceed CFR LTD
Key Feature: Exceptional value in a lightweight XC package.
Expert Review Highlight: “Excellent lightweight performance package, reasonable price for top-tier specs.”
Specifications:
- Weight: 8.9kg
- Suspension Travel: 100mm (front hardtail)
- Groupset: SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent lightweight performance at a competitive price.
- High-end component specification, including a dropper post.
- Boutique-level build quality and performance.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Traditional XC geometry and ride feel, not as progressive as some competitors.
Canyon has evolved from humble beginnings at German XC races to a global cycling powerhouse, accumulating numerous World Cup and World Championship victories. The Exceed CFR LTD hardtail showcases a classic XC geometry with a 69-degree headtube angle, 1,154mm wheelbase, and 455mm reach (size large). It boasts an exclusive paint finish and a complete bike weight of just 8.9kg.
The build kit features a SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS drivetrain and a remote lockout RockShox SID SL fork. SRAM Level Ultimate brakes provide stopping power, while Reynolds Blacklabel XC wheels paired with Maxxis tires ensure rapid rolling.
Guy Kesteven’s test ride revealed a sharp, classic XC feel: “The Exceed CFR’s unfiltered stiffness, incredibly low weight, and direct power transfer will be a revelation for serious racers. They will appreciate the quick, climb-friendly steering from the steep head angle and 740mm handlebars.”
For budget-conscious riders, Canyon offers various Exceed models with more affordable component packages. These retain the same frame geometry but with different components and slightly increased weight. However, even the lower-spec Exceed CF models remain impressively lightweight, staying under the 10kg mark.
Explore the complete review of the Canyon Exceed CFR LTD.
3. Best for State-of-the-Art Cross-Country Tech: Scott Scale RC SL
Scott Scale RC SL
Scott Scale RC SL
Key Feature: Cutting-edge technology and adjustable geometry for peak XC performance.
Expert Review Highlight: “Super light, super stiff frame and wheels, phenomenal attention to detail.”
Specifications:
- Weight: 9.1kg
- Suspension Travel: 100mm (front hardtail)
- Groupset: SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptionally light and stiff frame construction.
- Ultra-lightweight and stiff wheelset.
- Aggressive, easily adjustable geometry for customized handling.
- Outstanding attention to practical performance details.
- Top-of-the-line, exotic component specification.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Extremely high price point.
- Uncompromising, race-focused ride quality.
- Heavier than some might expect for a top-end lightweight hardtail.
Scott has completely revamped its Scale cross-country hardtail, marking a significant departure from the previous six-year design. The new Scale RC SL features a radical redesign, representing a revolution in Scott’s hardtail race bike technology.
Constructed from Scott’s HMX SL carbon fiber, the frame incorporates refined carbon layup, construction techniques, and hardware. New features include adjustable headset cups, similar to those found on the Spark, allowing for +/- 0.6-degree head angle adjustments. The geometry is adjustable from 67.9 degrees (stock) to 67.2 degrees (neutral cups included) or a slack 66.7 degrees (for XC standards). The seat angle is 75.3 degrees in the standard 67.9-degree head angle position, and the reach is 463.6mm on a medium frame.
During the Scale’s launch event, Guy Kesteven put the bike through demanding paces. Despite the intensity, the bike’s performance was clear: “Between gasping for air, burning legs, and oxygen deprivation, it was evident the new Scale is incredibly, brutally fast. While not the absolute lightest hardtail and the DT Swiss hub engagement has a slight lag, once engaged, the power delivery is incredibly direct.”
Component highlights include Trickstuff Piccola Carbon brakes, a Quarq power meter, Syncros carbon finishing kit, and the incredibly light Silverton SL2-30 CL carbon wheels (claimed 1280g per wheelset), the same wheels chosen by Tom Pidcock for the Olympics.
While the Scale RC SL’s price is astronomical, the Scale RC World Cup model offers a more accessible price point while still remaining under the 10kg mark.
For comprehensive details, read the full Scott Scale RC SL review.
4. Best for Race-Proven Tech: Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2
The Trek Supercaliber viewed from the side on a trail
Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2
Key Feature: Race-proven IsoStrut suspension technology for efficient pedaling.
Expert Review Highlight: “Super efficient pedaling, firmly fast ride feel, balanced XC handling.”
Specifications:
- Weight: 9.75kg
- Suspension Travel: 100mm (front) / 60mm (rear)
- Groupset: SRAM XX SL Eagle AXS T-Type
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptionally efficient pedaling platform.
- Firm and fast ride feel for race performance.
- Balanced handling characteristics for XC courses.
- 200g weight reduction compared to the previous generation.
- Dropper post included on all models.
- Smart design details for racing and maintenance.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Complex multi-cable routing.
- PF92 bottom bracket standard.
- Fitted with skinny XC tires.
- 60mm rear travel might be insufficient for some riders.
Trek innovated with the Supercaliber, creating a unique full-suspension design featuring IsoStrut – a compact yet fully functional remote-controlled Fox air shock delivering 60mm of rear travel. While 60mm might seem minimal compared to the 120mm travel becoming common on modern XC bikes, the Supercaliber has proven its race-winning capabilities at the Olympic and World Championship levels.
While not as plush as longer-travel XC bikes, the IsoStrut suspension offers sufficient compliance to enhance traction and prevent stalling on square-edged hits compared to a hardtail. It retains a firm feel, allowing riders to maximize the performance benefits of a sub-10kg mountain bike when pushing hard on the pedals. During testing, Guy Kesteven rarely felt the need to engage the shock lockout.
For a deeper analysis and comparison with the Specialized Epic World Cup, read Guy’s full Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 review.
5. Best for Ultimate Lightness and Simplicity: Orbea Alma M-Ltd
Orbea Alma M LTD 2023
Orbea Alma M-Ltd
Key Feature: Rigid fork option for unparalleled lightness and simplicity.
Expert Review Highlight: “Forgiving frame, customizable options, rigid simplicity and reliability.”
Specifications:
- Weight: 7.6kg (with rigid fork)
- Suspension Travel: N/A (rigid)
- Groupset: SRAM XX Eagle SL AXS T-Type
Reasons to Buy:
- Surprisingly forgiving frame for a rigid hardtail.
- Customizable component selection through Orbea’s MyO program.
- Dependable simplicity and reliability of a rigid setup.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Rigid fork descending demands skilled riders with strong wrists.
- Not necessarily a budget-friendly option despite its simplicity.
While Orbea’s Alma OMR carbon fiber race hardtail frame isn’t exceptionally light on its own (weighing just over 1kg), Orbea has taken a radical approach to achieve incredibly low complete bike weights for climbing dominance. While most riders will opt for a suspension fork, Orbea’s 550g Spirit Rigid fork offers a significant 800-1,000g weight saving over a 100mm suspension fork, bringing the complete bike weight well below 8kg.
The uniquely shaped, flattened top tube is designed to dissipate vibrations from the rigid front end, and the carbon fork legs offer a smoother ride than expected. Slim seat stays enhance compliance, while ample material around the bottom bracket and chainstays ensures efficient power transfer. The rigid fork maintains the same axle-to-crown length as a 100mm suspension fork, preserving the bike’s agile, short-wheelbase handling.
The same OMR frame is used on the top four Alma models, with four additional Alma models utilizing slightly heavier OMP frames. Orbea’s ‘MyO’ customization program allows riders to personalize component choices to fine-tune cost, weight, and ride characteristics. Extensive color options (fully custom on top-tier models) further enhance personalization, with each Alma built to order in Orbea’s Basque factory. Orbea’s direct-to-consumer model generally offers good value, although delivery times may be longer compared to purchasing an off-the-shelf bike from a local shop.
6. Best Lightweight Cross-Country Hardtail Frameset: Mondraker Podium Carbon RR SL
Mondraker Podium Carbon RR SL 2024 studio shot
Mondraker Podium Carbon RR SL
Key Feature: Ultra-lightweight hardtail frameset for custom builds.
Expert Review Highlight: “Incredibly light frameset, leaf-sprung ride feel.”
Specifications:
- Weight (Complete Bike): 8.6kg
- Suspension Travel: 100mm (front hardtail)
- Groupset: SRAM XX SL Carbon Eagle T-Type
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptionally lightweight frameset, ideal for custom builds.
- Frame design provides a unique, compliant ride feel.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Limited availability in some markets.
Mondraker claims the Podium Carbon RR SL frame to be among the lightest production cross-country frames available. Launched in 2021, Mondraker’s ‘Forward Geometry’ ensures it remains relevant among modern XC bikes.
Forward Geometry, pioneered on DH race tracks by Cesar Rojo and others, initiated the trend towards super-short stems paired with extended reach frames. Mondraker was the first major brand to implement this concept across its entire range, from gravity bikes to XC machines.
Mondraker states the Podium Carbon RR frame weighs a mere 775g, providing an incredibly light foundation for a custom, lightweight build. While designed a few years ago, the Podium’s geometry has been updated with a 463mm reach, 68.5-degree headtube angle, and a 70mm stem on a size large.
If budget allows, the Podium Carbon RR SL frameset provides an exceptional starting point for building an ultra-lightweight, climb-conquering hardtail.
7. Best Lightweight Full-Suspension Frameset: Specialized S-Works Epic 8
Specialized S-Works Epic 8 pack shot
Specialized S-Works Epic 8
Key Feature: Lightweight full-suspension frame with race-optimized geometry.
Expert Review Highlight: “Superlight sub-1,800g frame with awesome geometry, stiff, tough, and practical.”
Specifications:
- Weight (Complete Bike): 10.49kg (size Large)
- Suspension Travel: 120mm (front) / 120mm (rear)
- Groupset: SRAM Eagle AXS XX SL, T-Type
Reasons to Buy:
- Superlight frame (sub-1,800g) with excellent geometry.
- Stiff, durable, and practical for aggressive riding.
- Updated pedaling kinematics for enhanced efficiency.
- Up to 1.7 liters of internal frame storage.
- High-end SRAM/RockShox AXS XC componentry.
- Excellent Specialized/Roval wheels, tires, and finishing kit.
Reasons to Avoid:
- S-Works Epic 8 complete bike is heavier than the previous generation.
- High-tech features come at a premium price.
- Flight Attendant suspension adds complexity and weight.
Specialized recently updated its S-Works Epic cross-country bike, resulting in a highly capable and fast race machine. The Epic 8 is packed with advanced technology, including RockShox Flight Attendant suspension, wireless shifting, and a power meter. While these features enhance performance, they also contribute to a slightly higher overall weight.
The previous generation S-Works Epic managed to dip below 9.7kg, while the current S-Works Epic 8 complete bike weighs 10.49kg. However, Specialized claims the latest frameset is 260g lighter. Therefore, building an S-Works Epic 8 with carefully chosen components and budget in mind could potentially result in a sub-10kg full-suspension XC bike.
If minimizing weight is the primary goal, opting for a build without computer-controlled suspension might be necessary. However, the Specialized S-Works Epic 8 frameset still offers benchmark XC performance.
Learn more in the Specialized S-Works Epic 8 review.
8. Best Lightweight MTB for Technical Riding: Scott Spark RC SL EVO AXS
Scott Spark RC SL TR bike
Scott Spark RC SL EVO AXS
Key Feature: Lightweight, long-travel XC bike for technical courses.
Expert Review Highlight: “Ultralight, long-travel race weapon, seriously fun on technical trails.”
Specifications:
- Weight: 10.4kg
- Suspension Travel: 120mm (front) / 120mm (rear)
- Groupset: SRAM XX SL AXS T-Type (with power meter)
Reasons to Buy:
- Ultralight frame with generous 120mm travel.
- Capable and fun on technical trails.
- Includes a power meter and dropper post as standard.
Reasons to Avoid:
- High-end build results in a very expensive bike.
- Slightly over the 10kg target weight.
Scott’s updated Spark XC platform features a bold new design and progressive, trail-ready ride characteristics. It’s precise and responsive, making it suitable for aggressive riding. The latest Spark suspension is the best iteration yet, offering excellent bump absorption and speed maintenance in ‘Open’ mode. Scott’s TwinLoc system allows toggling to a firmer ‘Traction’ mode for climbing or full lockout for sprints, with corresponding adjustments to the front fork.
While the top-end Spark RC SL EVO AXS model slightly exceeds the sub-10kg target, its uncompromising spec, including a robust Fox 34 fork, dropper post, power meter, and wider tires, justifies the slight weight increase. The 120mm travel allows riders to fully exploit the bike’s trail capabilities.
Our review of the more affordable Scott Spark Team Issue AXS model highlighted the Spark’s impressive overall performance.
9. Best for Riding On and Off the Race Track: Giant Anthem Advanced 29 1
Giant Anthem Advanced 29 1
Giant Anthem Advanced 29 1
Key Feature: Versatile XC bike for racing and trail riding.
Expert Review Highlight: “Calm and controlled geometry, well-controlled suspension, very capable spec list.”
Specifications:
- Weight: 10.7kg
- Suspension Travel: 110mm (front) / 100mm (rear)
- Groupset: SRAM GX Eagle Transmission
Reasons to Buy:
- Stable and predictable geometry.
- Well-tuned and controlled suspension performance.
- Capable component specification.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Lower shock mount area can collect dirt.
- Only one bottle cage mount.
- Lacks downtube protection.
- No internal frame storage.
Giant’s Anthem is another XC bike that slightly misses the 10kg mark in its stock configuration. However, with its lightweight frame and strategic component upgrades, achieving a sub-10kg weight is achievable.
Previous Anthem models featured Fox’s Live Valve system, which automatically adjusted suspension settings but added weight. For 2024, Giant has removed Live Valve, making the current Anthem Advanced Pro 29 1 the lightest Anthem to date. Careful component selection, particularly in the drivetrain, could bring the Anthem Advanced 29 1 under 10kg. Giant also offers the Anthem as a frame-only option for custom builds, including a distinctive paint finish.
Beyond its potential for lightweight builds, the Anthem Advanced 29 offers excellent ride quality. Our review of the Giant Anthem Advanced Pro 29 1 (with Live Valve) revealed that it feels more like a trail bike than a pure XC race bike. It provides composed handling on descents and excellent rear tire traction on climbs.
What You Need to Know About the Best Lightweight Mountain Bikes: Buyer’s Guide
Why Trust BikePerfect? Our cycling experts possess decades of experience in testing bikes and gear. We provide unbiased opinions based on rigorous testing. Learn more about our testing methodology.
What are the Lightest Mountain Bike Frames?
The primary factor adding weight to modern mountain bikes is the shift towards full-suspension designs over best hardtail mountain bikes. While hardtails remain lighter, most professional XC racers now opt for full-suspension bikes, even on less technical courses.
Full-suspension bikes offer greater fun and forgiveness for non-competitive riders. However, they inherently add weight due to the rear shock (approximately 250g), pivot bearings, mounting hardware, and additional frame components. Even ultra-light full-suspension frames like the 1,870g Scott Spark are significantly heavier than their hardtail counterparts, such as the Scott Scale. Softail designs, like Trek’s Supercaliber, bridge the gap between hardtails and full-suspension in terms of weight and suspension functionality.
Are Cross-Country Race Bikes Lighter?
Professional cross-country race bikes are exceptionally light due to high-end components often unavailable or prohibitively expensive for general consumers. However, some brands offer premium models that are even lighter than their sponsored team bikes. This is often because consumer bikes are not bound by sponsorship agreements. For example, RockShox SID Ultimate SL forks are heavier than Fox 32 Step-Cast forks, and Shimano XTR components are generally heavier than SRAM XX1. Without sponsorship constraints, brands sometimes equip consumer bikes with cost-no-object components to create ultra-lightweight, flagship models.
What is the Lightest MTB in the World?
Bikes like the Orbea Alma M-Ltd and Scott Scale, which can be configured with rigid forks, represent the extreme end of lightweight mountain biking. Further weight reduction can be achieved by converting to a single-speed drivetrain, eliminating gears entirely. For enthusiasts seeking the absolute limits of lightweight construction, resources like weightweenies.starbike.com offer a glimpse into extreme weight-saving techniques. Custom builders like Gustav Gullholm (Dangerholm on Instagram) showcase how Scott Spark and Scale bikes can be reduced to as little as 7kg through modifications like sanding, paint stripping, and ultra-light carbon fiber components.
Note: We have relied on manufacturer-provided weights in this guide. For precise weights, we recommend using scales when purchasing. Please contact us if you identify any significant weight discrepancies so we can update our information.
How We Test Lightweight Mountain Bikes
Our bike testing process involves riding a wide variety of trails, from smooth singletrack to technical wooded sections, in diverse weather conditions, ranging from dry to wet. We conduct long-term testing over several months to assess the durability and performance of bikes over time.
Meet Our Testers
Image: Headshot of experienced mountain bike tester Guy Kesteven.
Guy Kesteven
Guy has been testing and writing about mountain bikes since the 1990s, with millions of words published across thousands of bike and gear reviews.
Image: Headshot of mountain bike and gravel expert Graham Cottingham.
Graham Cottingham
Graham brings nearly 20 years of off-road riding experience, encompassing downhill, enduro, and gravel disciplines.
