For any serious mountain biker focused on speed, efficiency, and conquering challenging terrain, the cross country (XC) mountain bike stands as the pinnacle of performance engineering. Over the last half-decade at Flow Mountain Bike, we’ve rigorously tested a wide array of XC bikes, from the innovative Trek Supercaliber to the budget-conscious Canyon Lux World Cup and the subtly refined Cervelo ZFS-5. These aren’t just bikes; they represent the cutting edge of XC evolution.
Modern XC courses demand more than ever before. This evolution is reflected in the bikes themselves, which now boast features once reserved for trail bikes. Dropper posts, wider handlebars, and more powerful brakes are now commonplace, enhancing rider confidence and control on technical sections. Frame designs are adapting, accommodating wider tires for increased grip, and slacker head angles are becoming the norm, providing stability at high speeds. Furthermore, models like the Orbea Oiz, Scott Spark, and Specialized Epic 8 are pushing the boundaries of suspension travel, delivering enhanced traction and comfort across rough trails.
Rider on a Merida Ninety-Six RC 9000 cross country mountain bike speeding through a trail, showcasing the bike’s capability on challenging terrain.
The advancements in XC bike technology have made these machines incredibly versatile and, dare we say, genuinely fun. Gone are the days of twitchy, uncomfortable XC bikes. Today’s models are surprisingly capable on a wider range of trails, blurring the lines between XC and trail bikes. Many can even be modified with longer stroke shocks and forks, transforming them into lightweight trail shredders.
But with so many impressive new models hitting the market, the crucial question remains: which XC bike reigns supreme? We’ve compiled our top 14 full-suspension XC mountain bike reviews to guide you through the best options available. We’ll delve into what impressed us, what fell short, and ultimately, which bikes stand out as the best of the best.
2025 trek top fuel 120mm xc
Trek Top Fuel: The Adaptable XC Performer
Pros: Exceptional traction from ABP suspension, superb fit and handling, versatile travel and setup options, thoughtful component choices.
Cons: Frame not the lightest in class, lacks remote lockout cable routing, single water bottle mount, stiff Bontrager RSL cockpit.
The 2025 Trek Top Fuel represents a significant evolution, though its visual similarities to the previous generation might be deceptive. This 4th generation model features a redesigned frame with slimmer tubing, resulting in reduced weight and improved compliance and tracking on rough trails.
A key innovation is the unique 4-position Mino Link at the lower shock mount. This allows riders to fine-tune geometry and rear suspension leverage, and easily switch between 120mm and 130mm of rear travel simply by changing the shock stroke. Coupled with its compatibility with 120-140mm forks, the latest Top Fuel is arguably the most adaptable XC bike on the market.
Our initial test of the Top Fuel 9.8 GX AXS in its stock configuration revealed its all-around excellence. Subsequently, by increasing fork and shock travel, fitting more aggressive tires, and swapping components, we transformed it into a high-performance 140/130mm trail bike.
More recently, we explored the other end of the spectrum, setting up the Top Fuel as a 120/120mm travel XC bike. With a RockShox SID fork and refined rear shock setup, it proved remarkably capable in this configuration. While racers prioritizing absolute minimum weight might look elsewhere due to the 2.6kg frame, lack of remote lockout routing, and single bottle mount, the Top Fuel compensates with exceptional handling and technical prowess, making it one of the best 120mm travel bikes available today.
The 2024 Specialized S-Works Epic 8 XC bike featuring RockShox Flight Attendant suspension, highlighting its cutting-edge technology.
Specialized Epic 8: The Smart Suspension XC Racer
Pros: Active and efficient suspension, custom-tuned fork and shock, modern XC geometry, integrated SWAT storage, lightweight and practical frame.
Cons: Premium pricing across the range, particularly the S-Works model.
Since its debut in 2002, the Specialized Epic has been a dominant force in XC racing. Initially known for its Brain shock and hardtail-like efficiency, the Epic evolved significantly for 2024. Specialized moved away from the Brain system, increasing suspension travel to 120mm both front and rear. Combined with progressive XC geometry and a Hi/Lo flip chip, the Epic 8 delivers a significantly smoother and more capable ride on descents compared to previous iterations.
Despite the increased travel, climbing prowess remains a key strength, thanks to the lightweight frame and intelligent 3-position suspension system. Custom RockShox internals in the SID fork and SIDLuxe shock offer Open, Lock, and a “Magic Middle” setting that provides a responsive pedaling platform.
Most Epic 8 models feature a TwistLoc remote for suspension mode switching, while the flagship S-Works model incorporates the advanced RockShox Flight Attendant system for automatic suspension adjustment. While the S-Works commands a premium price, it sets a new performance benchmark for XC suspension technology.
The Epic 8 is packed with smart features including SWAT downtube storage, a hidden steering limiter, and guided internal cable routing. For a comprehensive overview, see our detailed Specialized Epic 8 review.
The 2024 Specialized Epic 8 EVO Pro cross country mountain bike, showcasing its trail-oriented build and capable suspension.
Specialized Epic EVO: The Trail-Ready XC Bike
Pros: Impeccable handling, smooth and capable suspension, trail-focused component spec, SWAT storage, mechanic-friendly frame design.
Cons: Fox shock and dropper post reliability issues, high entry price, no alloy frame options.
Joining the Epic 8 race bike, the Specialized Epic EVO is a new XC bike for 2024 built on the same full carbon frame, complete with SWAT storage, a Hi/Lo geometry flip chip, threaded bottom bracket, and guided internal cable routing. While retaining 120mm of rear travel, the Epic EVO features a longer 130mm Fox 34 fork up front.
To further emphasize its trail capability, Specialized equipped the Epic EVO with more powerful brakes, grippier tires, and a longer travel dropper post. A shorter stem and wider handlebar contribute to a more relaxed riding position.
The result is a distinct on-trail feel. The Epic EVO offers a plusher ride and greater confidence on challenging descents. It’s remarkably capable for a bike with 130/120mm of travel.
While the burlier components add weight, and the chunkier tires impact climbing efficiency compared to the Epic 8 race bike, the Epic EVO excels in fun and capability. The absence of a remote lockout might deter racers, but for riders prioritizing trail enjoyment, the Epic EVO is a top contender. Our Specialized Epic EVO review provides a deeper dive.
The 2024 Canyon Lux Trail CFR cross country mountain bike, highlighting its in-frame storage and modern trail-oriented design.
Canyon Lux Trail: The Smart Storage XC Trail Blazer
Pros: Excellent suspension performance, efficient pedaling platform, precise handling, clever storage solutions, exceptional value across the range.
Cons: Ride can be firm, cockpit ergonomics could be improved, cluttered cable routing.
The Canyon Lux Trail, introduced in 2021 as a longer-travel variant of the Lux race bike, received a significant overhaul for 2024. The new model features a completely redesigned carbon frame, boasting 120mm of fork travel and 115mm of rear travel. Notably, it’s Canyon’s first mountain bike with integrated internal storage, featuring a well-designed hatch and an optional top tube-mounted multi-tool.
Practicality extends to the threaded bottom bracket and tool-free thru-axles, although cable routing takes a less refined approach. Control lines routed through the headset create a busy cockpit. Considering the Lux Trail’s inherent efficiency, eliminating the remote lockout could have simplified the setup and improved dropper post lever ergonomics.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Lux Trail delivers outstanding trail performance. While heavier than the Lux World Cup, it remains remarkably agile on twisty singletrack and inspires confidence on descents thanks to its plush suspension and long-stroke dropper post. It’s a genuinely fun bike on technical terrain, as detailed in our Canyon Lux Trail review.
The 2024 Cervelo ZFS-5 120 X0 AXS cross country mountain bike, emphasizing its sleek design and road bike heritage.
Cervelo ZFS-5: The Roadie-Inspired XC Debut
Pros: Smooth and refined ride quality, plush and responsive suspension, lightweight yet practical frame, premium component package.
Cons: 100mm XC builds lack a dropper post, headset cable routing may be undesirable for some.
The Cervelo ZFS-5 marks Cervelo’s entry into full-suspension mountain bikes, leveraging the expertise of sister brand Santa Cruz. While sharing DNA with the Blur, the ZFS-5 is a distinct model built around its own unique carbon frame, claimed to be exceptionally light at 1,718g. Geometry differs too, with our test bike featuring a slack 66.6° head angle.
The ZFS-5 is available in two configurations: a 100/100mm travel XC race bike and a more versatile 120/115mm travel trail bike. The frame remains consistent, with travel adjustments achieved through shock and fork variations.
Even in the longer travel configuration, the ZFS-5 exhibits neutral pedaling performance and surprising responsiveness. The lightweight chassis excels on climbs, and modern geometry provides balanced handling across diverse trail types. Combined with a premium build kit and plush, poppy suspension, the ZFS-5 is an exhilarating XC bike that’s simply a joy to ride. Our Cervelo ZFS-5 review offers complete details.
The 2024 Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.8 GX AXS, a striking and high-performance cross country race bike.
Trek Supercaliber: The Race-Focused IsoStrut Innovator
Pros: Striking frame design, powerful pedaling efficiency, responsive handling, contemporary component selection.
Cons: Limited travel less forgiving on very rough terrain, complex shock servicing and tuning, premium price.
The Trek Supercaliber, visually arresting and performance-driven, underwent a complete redesign for 2023. Trek introduced two new frames with updated geometry, increased travel, and a redesigned IsoStrut shock now manufactured by RockShox.
The signature IsoStrut suspension platform remains, but rear travel increases to 80mm for enhanced grip and comfort. Despite the increased travel, the Supercaliber maintains exceptional pedaling efficiency due to a higher main pivot that boosts anti-squat. A dual remote lockout is included, though the rear suspension is so responsive under power that it’s often unnecessary.
Descending performance is improved through a slacker 67.5° head angle, longer wheelbase, and 110mm fork. Almost every Supercaliber model comes standard with 2.4in tires and a dropper post, a welcome feature.
While not the most forgiving bike on extremely rough terrain, especially compared to 120mm travel bikes, the Supercaliber excels in razor-sharp handling and explosive pedaling performance, bridging the gap between a hardtail and a traditional full suspension bike. Our Trek Supercaliber review provides a comprehensive analysis.
2023 orbea oiz m10
Orbea Oiz: The Elegant and Adaptable XC Climber
Pros: Lightweight and aesthetically pleasing frame, excellent geometry, plush and easily adjustable suspension, wide range of spec options including alloy models.
Cons: Headset cable routing, frame can be noisy, limited clearance for a second water bottle.
The Orbea Oiz has evolved to be purpose-built around 120mm of travel, both front and rear, allowing for optimized geometry. This commitment, combined with standard 2.4in tires and a dropper post, makes the Oiz a highly capable and enjoyable XC bike.
It remains remarkably light, with the top-end OMX carbon frame claimed to weigh just 1,750g including the shock. It’s also impressively quick uphill thanks to efficient pedaling and remote-activated suspension.
The Squidlock remote, while not perfect, offers functional suspension control. The Medium setting firms up the rear shock damping while leaving the fork open, creating an excellent technical climbing mode that maintains front-end compliance. This also sharpens steering on flowy singletrack. For in-depth ride impressions, see our full Orbea Oiz review.
2023 specialized epic world cup pro
The 2023 Specialized Epic World Cup Pro, designed for ultimate cross country racing efficiency and hardtail-like responsiveness.
Specialized Epic World Cup: The Hardtail-Esque XC Rocket
Pros: Exceptional automated efficiency, superb geometry, tunable shock, clutter-free cockpit, very lightweight, dual bottle compatibility.
Cons: Ride can be harsh outside of race pace, Brain fork can be jarring on rough terrain, proprietary shock is unproven long-term, expensive.
The Specialized Epic World Cup, a brand-new model for 2023, represents a four-year project to create the ultimate XC race bike, blending hardtail responsiveness with full suspension control.
Specialized collaborated with RockShox to develop the new SIDLuxe WCID shock, replacing the Brain damper with a clever air spring design allowing independent tuning of the negative chamber. This results in a tunable system delivering hardtail-like acceleration in its firmest setting.
The proprietary shock provides 75mm of rear travel, paired with a custom RockShox SID SL fork with 110mm of travel and an updated Brain damper. The frame is a new carbon fiber chassis, claimed to be among the lightest available.
Geometry is progressive, with a 66.5° head angle and a substantial 58mm BB drop, creating a responsive and engaging ride best suited for aggressive, fast riding. Riders seeking a plusher, more versatile XC bike might prefer the longer travel Epic EVO.
However, for outright efficiency, the Epic World Cup is a leader, offering a remarkably clean cockpit without lockout controls. Our Specialized Epic World Cup review offers a complete picture.
2023 canyon lux world cup cfr team
Canyon Lux World Cup: The Lightweight Race Value Champion
Pros: Organic pedaling efficiency, precise handling, high-tech bearings, dual bottle compatibility, exceptional value for the price.
Cons: Race-tuned suspension may not suit all riders, headset cable routing, fork feels under-gunned, no dropper post included.
Positioned alongside the longer travel Lux Trail, the Canyon Lux World Cup is the purebred race machine of the two. It features 100mm of travel and a new carbon frame that Canyon claims to be one of the lightest on the market.
Updated geometry enhances balance and stability at speed, complementing the race-tuned chassis and suspension, which provide outstanding pedaling efficiency and responsive handling through tight singletrack.
While the stout frame encourages aggressive riding, the Fox 32 SC fork can feel under-gunned. The absence of a dropper post on any Lux World Cup model is also surprising. Combined with the firm suspension, the Lux World Cup is less plush and confidence-inspiring on rough terrain compared to bikes like the Scott Spark or Merida Ninety-Six.
For a more versatile XC bike, the Lux Trail is recommended. However, for a lightweight, agile, and highly efficient race bike, the Lux World Cup offers an unmatched combination of features and value. Our Canyon Lux World Cup review details the stock bike, and our long-term review explores the Lux World Cup’s full potential with component upgrades.
The 2022 Scott Spark RC, known for its progressive geometry and plush 120mm travel suspension, suitable for rowdy trails.
Scott Spark RC: The TwinLoc Controlled Trail Conqueror
Pros: Progressive geometry, plush and traction-rich suspension, versatile chassis, split-personality TwinLoc system.
Cons: Relies heavily on remote for pedaling efficiency, headset cable routing increases maintenance, frame can be noisy.
The latest Scott Spark generated significant buzz upon its 2021 launch. Replacing a highly successful XC bike, the 4th generation Spark features a high-tech carbon frame with a cleverly hidden rear shock and updated TwinLoc remote. It also pushed geometry boundaries with adjustable headset cups and increased suspension travel to 120mm at both ends, redefining World Cup-level XC bikes.
Despite advancements, the Spark still utilizes a handlebar remote and two cables to control suspension. The remote is essential to maximize performance, as pedaling efficiency is intentionally soft and drivetrain-neutral in the full travel ‘Descend’ mode. Remote-averse riders may not find the Spark appealing.
However, for those comfortable with remotes and headset cable routing, the Spark offers adaptable performance, excelling as both a technical climber and a fun descender. Plush suspension and a low bottom bracket enhance cornering, providing traction and comfort in challenging situations. It’s a truly impressive and highly capable XC race bike. Our Scott Spark RC review provides a full account.
The 2022 Giant Anthem Advanced Pro 29 1, highlighted as one of the best all-around cross country race bikes on the market.
Giant Anthem: The Lightweight Live Valve Racer
Pros: Very lightweight frame, fantastic all-around handling, updated Live Valve system excels in XC racing, near-flawless contemporary build kit, clean cable routing.
Cons: Original test frame cracked, Live Valve adds complexity and cockpit clutter, single bottle mount.
The Giant Anthem, a popular and enduring XC bike, underwent a complete redesign in 2022. Moving from Maestro suspension to a simpler single pivot design, the new Anthem frame shed significant weight, becoming one of the lightest options available.
While weight decreased, suspension travel increased by 10mm, now offering 100mm of rear travel paired with a 110mm Fox 34 SC or RockShox SID fork. Dropper posts and 2.4in Maxxis WT tires are standard across models, along with longer reach and a modern 67.5° head angle.
While most Anthems have manual remote lockouts, our test bike featured the Fox Live Valve system. While adding cockpit clutter and an external battery pack, Live Valve delivers a smoother and faster transition between Open and Firm settings, particularly advantageous for XC racing. Its firm platform provides efficient pedaling, while active suspension handles descents, eliminating the need for manual lockout toggling. For long-term insights, see our Giant Anthem review.
The 2021 Merida Ninety-Six RC 9000, noted for its value and excellent handling in a high-performance cross country race bike.
Merida Ninety-Six RC: The Value-Packed XC Performer
Pros: Modern XC geometry, responsive suspension, excellent component spec for the price, dual bottle compatibility.
Cons: Pedaling not the snappiest, not officially compatible with 2.4in tires, inconsistent TwistLoc remote, headset cable routing complicates servicing.
The Merida Ninety-Six, updated in late 2020 with a new carbon frame and suspension design, offers 100mm of rear travel. The Ninety-Six RC variant features a 100mm fork, faster tires, and a race-focused build kit.
Unlike many XC bikes, the Ninety-Six uses a non-proprietary rear shock, appealing for long-term ownership. Its affordability, offering carbon full suspension race bikes for under $6K, is also a major draw.
The frame accommodates two bottles and includes a top tube accessory mount. However, internal headset cable routing is less practical, increasing potential for moisture and dirt ingress. The TwistLoc remote on our test bike proved inconsistent.
Geometry and suspension performance are significantly improved in the Ninety-Six RC. The flex-stay design reduces weight and enhances lateral stiffness. While hardcore racers might find the rear suspension slightly sensitive under power, traction is excellent, and progressive linkage provides impressive big-hit control, inspiring confidence on technical race courses. Our Merida Ninety-Six RC review provides complete details.
The 2021 Merida Ninety-Six 8000, described as a versatile and fun cross country bike package at a great price point.
Merida Ninety-Six 8000: The Playful and Capable XC Trail Bike
Pros: Poppy and playful ride, confidence-inspiring geometry, plush suspension, excellent traction, awesome value.
Cons: Aggressive tires reduce rolling speed, not officially compatible with 2.4in tires, headset cable routing, remote lockout adds cockpit clutter.
Alongside the race-oriented Ninety-Six RC, standard Merida Ninety-Six models share the same carbon frame and 100mm rear travel. However, the 8000 model increases fork travel to 120mm, slackening the head angle to 67° for improved descending stability. Burlier tires and brakes further enhance its technical terrain capability.
It retains desirable features of the Ninety-Six RC, like dual bottle mounts and an integrated chainguide. Merida includes a proper-length dropper post and a saddle-mounted multi-tool.
Similar to the RC model, headset cable routing is a downside. Given the Ninety-Six RC’s race focus, the regular Ninety-Six models could benefit from eliminating the remote lockout for a cleaner cockpit.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Ninety-Six 8000 is an exceptional trail bike. Suspension is supple over small bumps and well-supported on larger impacts. Aggressive tires provide excellent grip on loose terrain. Combined with a stiff carbon frame and slack geometry, this lightweight bike punches above its travel class. Read our Merida Ninety-Six 8000 review for more.
The 2021 Cannondale Scalpel Carbon 2, showcasing its unique four-bar suspension design and Lefty Ocho fork for technical terrain prowess.
Cannondale Scalpel: The Lefty Ocho Equipped Trail Weapon
Pros: Progressive and traction-rich suspension, smooth pedaling, precise and plush Lefty Ocho fork, dual bottle option, integrated STASH tool system.
Cons: Not the firmest under power, proprietary fork and PF30 BB might deter some, no dropper post on complete builds.
The Cannondale Scalpel, the longest-standing bike in our list, was updated in early 2020. This 8th generation model utilizes a unique chainstay design with a solid leaf-spring section, mimicking a four-bar linkage with reduced weight and enhanced lateral rigidity.
On the trail, the Scalpel is impressively smooth for a 100mm travel XC race bike, offering excellent traction and uninterrupted pedaling over rough terrain. It’s also nicely progressive with good big-hit support. While the sensitive rear suspension might feel soft to some, it can be firmed up by reducing sag or using the dual lockout for sprinting.
Long-distance riders will appreciate dual bottle mounts, and the integrated STASH tool system is excellent. Less appealing are the PF30 bottom bracket and proprietary A.I. drivetrain offset.
The Lefty Ocho fork, while divisive, provides exceptionally stiff and sensitive performance due to its needle-bearing internals and triangular slider, offering noticeably superior performance compared to conventional forks in back-to-back testing. Our Cannondale Scalpel review has complete details.
2023 pivot mach 4 sl team xtr
What Else is Out There in the XC Bike World?
Our XC bike review isn’t exhaustive, and many excellent full suspension race bikes remain untested by us.
Notable examples include the BMC Fourstroke, Mondraker F-Podium, and Ibis Exie, though these are less common in Australia. We recently tested the new Pivot Mach 4 SL and were thoroughly impressed. We aim to conduct a longer-term test to include it in future comparisons.
We will continue to add new models as we test them and welcome reader suggestions for bikes to review next. Brands interested in having their bikes tested are encouraged to contact us.
The updated 2024 Mondraker F-Podium, a cross country bike we are eager to test and compare against the best in the market.
The Quest for the Lightest XC Mountain Bike
Weight is a critical factor in XC racing. For weight-conscious riders, the question arises: which is the lightest XC bike?
Our bike reviews include confirmed weights (tubeless setup, no pedals). However, varying price points and component specs make direct weight comparisons challenging. Some XC bikes are still sold without dropper posts, further skewing weight comparisons.
The Canyon Lux World Cup CFR Team is the lightest XC bike in our list at 10.22kg. The Specialized Epic EVO Pro, at 12.1kg, is the heaviest, but features more travel, a dropper post, and more aggressive tires.
2023 canyon lux world cup
XC Mountain Bike Frame Weights Compared
Frame weight provides a more direct comparison. Manufacturer-claimed frame weights (frame, rear shock, basic hardware) are listed below:
- Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup – 1,712g
- Cervelo ZFS-5 – 1,718g
- Giant Anthem Advanced Pro – 1,735g
- Specialized S-Works Epic 8 – 1,795g
- Orbea Oiz OMX – 1,798g
- Scott Spark HMX SL – 1,870g
- Canyon Lux World Cup CFR – 1,894g
- Cannondale Scalpel Hi-Mod – 1,910g
- Santa Cruz Blur 4 – 1,933g
- Trek Supercaliber SLR – 1,950g
- Specialized Epic EVO – 1,965g
- Merida Ninety-Six RC – 2,064g
- Pivot Mach 4 SL – 2,087g
- Canyon Lux Trail CFR – 2,104g
- Specialized Epic 8 EVO – 2,210g
- Trek Top Fuel – 2,600g
The 2024 Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup, boasting the lightest full suspension frame in this comparison at a claimed 1,712g.
The Specialized Epic World Cup claims the lightest full suspension frame at 1,712g (S-Works frame and shock).
However, manufacturer-claimed weights should be viewed with caution, as details like paint, size, and included hardware are often unclear.
We have weighed stripped test bike frames to verify manufacturer claims:
- Giant Anthem – 1,807g (w/Fox Float DPS)
- Canyon Lux World Cup CFR – 1,941g (w/Fox Float DPS)
- Specialized S-Works Epic 8 – 1,950g (w/RockShox SIDLuxe)
- Trek Top Fuel – 2,600g (w/RockShox Deluxe)
The Anthem and Lux World Cup weights are close to claimed figures, and the Top Fuel is spot-on. However, the Epic 8 was 155g heavier than claimed, partly due to paint and a downtube protector, as detailed in our S-Works Epic 8 review.
The 2022 Canyon Lux Trail CF 9, showcasing the trend of modern cross country bikes adopting longer travel forks like the Fox 34 SC and RockShox SID.
Choosing the Best Cross Country Mountain Bike for You
From our extensive testing of fourteen top XC bikes, the “best” bike ultimately depends on individual priorities.
For Maximum Efficiency:
The Trek Supercaliber and Specialized Epic World Cup stand out for pure efficiency. These short-travel specialists excel as sprinter’s bikes, eliminating the need for remote lockouts and allowing riders to focus on the trail. The Epic World Cup’s clean cockpit and tunable shock are preferred, while the Supercaliber offers simpler setup and a dual-lockout for those who prioritize it. Both bridge the gap between hardtails and full suspension bikes, but at a premium price.
For Versatility and Capability:
The Trek Top Fuel, Canyon Lux Trail, Orbea Oiz, Scott Spark, and Specialized Epic EVO offer greater comfort and capability. Longer travel platforms and bigger forks provide enhanced grip on technical climbs and smoother descents.
The Epic EVO and Top Fuel are the most trail-oriented in stock form, lacking remote lockouts (which racers might dislike). Lighter tires can enhance XC and multi-day race performance, and the Epic EVO’s dual bottle capacity is advantageous for such events. The Top Fuel is unique in its ability to transform into a 140/130mm trail bike, offering multiple personalities for tinkerers.
The Lux Trail, Oiz, and Spark are more race-ready with 3-position remote suspension systems, but feature integrated cockpits that might complicate maintenance. The Spark excels in versatility due to its adjustable head angle, plusher suspension, and compatibility with longer travel forks.
2023 canyon lux world cup
For Best Value:
The Canyon Lux World Cup and Merida Ninety-Six offer exceptional value. These are the best value XC bikes we’ve tested, providing excellent specs for the money through direct-to-consumer (Canyon) or local bike shop (Merida) channels. The Lux World Cup, with its business-like handling, is closer to the Supercaliber and Epic World Cup. The Ninety-Six, with its plusher ride, aligns more with the Oiz and Spark.
For Best Overall Performance:
The Giant Anthem, Cervelo ZFS-5, and Specialized Epic 8 strike a balance of attributes without excessive integration or proprietary components. These modern XC bikes feature excellent geometry, traction-focused suspension, and lightweight frames.
The 2024 Cervelo ZFS-5 120 X0 AXS, recommended as a top cross country bike choice for riders who prefer to forgo remote lockouts.
The Giant Anthem range offers contemporary builds and great value, though its single bottle capacity and press-fit BB might deter some. The Cervelo ZFS-5 is more practical with a well-designed, high-quality frame and excellent ride quality, particularly the 120/115mm travel version. It’s an outstanding choice for those not concerned with remote lockouts.
The Top Pick: Specialized Epic 8
The Specialized Epic 8 narrowly earns our top spot. It excels as a descender with more supportive suspension, a slacker head angle, and longer wheelbase, while remaining a capable climber thanks to custom-tuned RockShox dampers. SWAT storage adds all-day practicality.
While the flagship S-Works model is expensive, lower-tier Comp or Expert models offer many of the same features at a significantly reduced price, making the Epic 8 the best overall XC bike available.
The Specialized S-Works Epic 8, crowned as the best overall cross country bike in this comprehensive review, albeit at a premium price point.
Flow’s Final Word on the Best XC Bikes
This concludes our review of the top 14 best XC bikes tested at Flow Mountain Bike.
This list is continually evolving as we test more bikes, ensuring direct comparisons against the competition.
This ongoing test series underscores the remarkable advancements in modern XC bikes. Each bike impressed us in unique ways, catering to diverse rider preferences.
If a new bike isn’t currently feasible, consider exploring our article on the top 8 upgrades for your XC bike. Performance and capabilities can be significantly enhanced with strategic modifications to your existing bike.
Bikes Tested:
- Cannondale Scalpel
- Canyon Lux Trail
- Canyon Lux World Cup
- Cervelo ZFS-5
- Giant Anthem
- Merida Ninety-Six 8000
- Merida Ninety-Six RC
- Orbea Oiz
- Pivot Mach 4 SL
- Scott Spark RC
- Specialized Epic 8
- Specialized Epic 8 EVO
- Specialized Epic World Cup
- Trek Supercaliber
- Trek Top Fuel
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