Bike park party laps, wild races, epic backcountry expeditions, and after-work trail blasts – the Best Enduro Bikes are engineered to handle it all. But what defines the cutting edge in enduro bike development, what features truly matter, and what should you prioritize when choosing your new ride? We rigorously tested 14 of the most thrilling enduro bikes to bring you the answers.
What’s in This Test:
Image alt text: Group shot of the best enduro bikes of 2024 lined up in a scenic outdoor location, showcasing a diverse range of models and brands.
Enduro bikes are undeniably captivating. And it’s not just us at ENDURO Magazine who are enthusiastic. Our recent reader survey, with input from over 23,000 riders, confirmed that enduro bikes remain a top choice. Whether you’re a current owner, aspiring buyer, or simply admire their capabilities, enduro bikes represent peak trail performance. When you roll out your enduro bike, you’re signaling it’s time to push your limits on the trail. From shuttle runs and bike park sessions to epic Alpine adventures and quick after-work rides on your local trails, modern enduro bikes take it all in stride. They are purpose-built to shred, encouraging you to open up the throttle and ride harder, instilling confidence with their robust components and ample suspension travel.
It was time to gather a selection of bikes and head to a prime location, characterized by challenging trails and a relaxed atmosphere, to put this year’s most exciting enduro contenders through their paces. The enduro bike landscape has evolved significantly since our last comprehensive test, with new technologies, suspension designs, and innovative features emerging rapidly. But how substantial are the advancements in modern enduro bikes, and what does the current trajectory of development look like?
Image alt text: Rider on a best enduro bike navigating a rocky section of trail during testing, demonstrating the bike’s capability in challenging terrain.
Image alt text: Close-up shot of enduro bike suspension components in action, highlighting the technology designed for optimal performance on demanding trails.
Image alt text: The Santa Cruz Megatower GX AXS, a top contender in the best enduro bike test, showcasing its frame design and components.
What Defines a Great Enduro Bike?
While specifications like suspension travel and frame geometry provide initial insights into a bike’s intended purpose, the true essence of a top-tier enduro bike lies in its component selection and, crucially, a cohesive overall design. But how does an enduro bike differ from a trail bike? The distinction is straightforward: as highlighted in our recent trail bike comparison test, modern trail bikes excel as versatile all-rounders, delivering balanced performance for both climbing and descending, prioritizing fun and covering varied distances. Enduro bikes, however, take performance a step further, particularly on descents, empowering riders to unleash their potential and push harder, even at high speeds and across demanding terrain. This enhanced downhill capability naturally involves some trade-offs in climbing efficiency, but it doesn’t imply that enduro bikes are incapable climbers or unsuitable for extended rides. The best enduro bikes featured in this group test demonstrate exceptional versatility, performing admirably in bike parks and on long backcountry adventures, holding their own against dedicated downhill and trail bikes. Moreover, their robust construction and components are built to withstand significant abuse.
If you’re still uncertain about which type of bike aligns best with your riding style and needs, we recommend exploring our interactive buyer’s guide. It offers tailored recommendations and valuable information to guide your bike selection process.
For this comprehensive group test, our objective was to identify the quintessential enduro all-rounder – a bike capable of delivering maximum riding enjoyment across a spectrum of conditions, from rugged backcountry trails to tight singletrack and steep technical descents. Whether you’re tackling challenging mountain terrain or exploring your familiar local trails, from the famed NATO Base trails of Finale Ligure to Whistler’s legendary A-Line, the best enduro bike of 2024 must excel in diverse trail environments and consistently deliver an adrenaline-fueled riding experience. As always, we prioritized the fun factor over pure speed, leaving our stopwatches behind to focus on the overall riding experience.
Image alt text: The Ibis HD6 GX AXS, crowned as the best enduro bike in the 2024 test, pictured on a challenging section of trail.
Enduro Bikes Featured in This Test: A Diverse Lineup
Given the vast array of bike models available, selecting the right bike to match individual needs can be a daunting task. Similarly, assembling a representative test field presents its own challenges. Our primary consideration is always rider preferences, insights we gather annually through our extensive reader survey. And as a reminder, our annual survey is currently open, and we encourage your participation. Your feedback is crucial, shaping not only our editorial direction but also influencing the broader bike industry. Take the survey now and let your voice be heard!
Consequently, our 14-bike test group predominantly features enduro bikes from your preferred brands, along with a few selections from our editorial team’s top picks and some exciting new models that may be unfamiliar to you.
| Bike | Price | Travel | Weight in kg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bold Unplugged Ultimate | € 8,999 | 170/160 mm | 15.5 |
| Canyon Strive CFR LTD | € 6,999 | 170/160 mm | 16.1 |
| GIANT Reign Advanced 1 V2 | € 6,999 | 170/160 mm | 15.1 |
| Ibis HD6 GX AXS | € 8,898 | 180/165 mm | 15.2 |
| Norco Sight C1 | € 8,499 | 160/150 mm | 16.2 |
| Orbea WILD M-LTD | € 12,030 | 170/160 mm | 22.3 |
| Propain Tyee 6 CF MIX | € 6,214 | 170/160 mm | 16 |
| RAAW Madonna V3 | € 6,500 | 170/160 mm | 16.7 |
| Rocky Mountain Altitude C70 | € 8,400 | 170/160 mm | 16.5 |
| Santa Cruz Megatower GX AXS RSV | € 8,299 | 170/165 mm | 15.4 |
| SCOTT Ransom 900 RC | € 9,999 | 170/160 mm | 15.7 |
| Trek Slash 9.8 XT | € 7,899 | 170/170 mm | 16.1 |
| Yeti SB160 T3 | € 10,890 | 170/160 mm | 15.6 |
| YT CAPRA CORE 4 | € 4,499 | 170/160 mm | 17 |
The price range within our test selection spans from €4,499 to €12,030, demonstrating that affordability doesn’t necessarily compromise component quality or overall performance against higher-priced competitors. We also included returning champions from previous tests, defending their titles, alongside some less conventional choices, exciting new technologies, and potential trendsetters featuring high pivot rear suspension systems. In the quest for the best enduro bike of 2024, many manufacturers presented their top-of-the-line flagship models. However, premium pricing doesn’t automatically equate to superior performance, and in some instances, we specifically requested more affordable builds, believing they would offer comparable or even enhanced trail capabilities.
As the reigning champion, the YETI SB160 T3 was an essential inclusion in our 2024 test. The same applies to the Canyon Strive CFR LTD, which previously earned our coveted Best Buy award. Both bikes, however, feature slightly updated specifications compared to last year, now equipped with the new SRAM Transmission groupsets. Another recent test winner, the Orbea WILD M-LTD, which topped our sister magazine E-MOUNTAINBIKE’s “best eMTB of 2024” comparison, also joined the fray. With its exceptional trail performance, robust components, and well-suited geometry, it stands as the only e-mountain bike truly deserving of consideration within a test field of modern enduro bikes. But how would this electric contender, also the most expensive in the group, fare against its purely pedal-powered rivals in our 2024 enduro bike showdown?
Image alt text: The Yeti SB160 T3, a previous test winner and strong contender for best enduro bike 2024, showcasing its aggressive geometry.
Image alt text: The Canyon Strive CFR LTD, recognized as a Best Buy in previous tests, participating in the 2024 best enduro bike comparison.
At the opposite end of the pricing spectrum, the YT Capra Core 4 is the most affordable bike in our test, retailing at an enticing €4,499. Despite its accessible price, it boasts a high-quality component package, including premium suspension and an electronic Transmission drivetrain – a very promising combination! The Propain Tyee 6 CF MIX also impresses with a well-rounded spec and a sensible price point, offering extensive customization options through Propain’s online configurator, with direct-to-consumer delivery. But does this approach translate to real-world performance?
The Bold Unplugged Ultimate and SCOTT Ransom 900 RC share a strikingly similar aesthetic, owing to their unique design featuring a fully enclosed rear shock. However, beneath the surface, these enduro bikes diverge significantly – after all, true value lies within, doesn’t it?
Image alt text: The Orbea Wild M-LTD, the only e-mountain bike in the test and winner of eMTB awards, competing against traditional enduro bikes.
Image alt text: The Propain Tyee CF MIX, offering extensive customization options, being tested on challenging enduro trails.
Image alt text: The SCOTT Ransom 900 RC, featuring a distinctive enclosed shock design, undergoing rigorous testing in the 2024 enduro bike comparison.
Giant, as one of the world’s largest bike manufacturers, certainly lives up to its name. Yet, the new Giant Reign Advanced 1 V2 remains a relatively uncommon sight on trails, a situation we aim to change! This enduro machine from the Taiwanese brand not only boasts a solid component package at a reasonable price but also delivered some surprises on the trail – more details to come!
While Norco categorizes the Sight C1 as a trail bike, its high-pivot suspension design enables remarkable high-speed performance, effectively blurring the lines between categories. But can it truly compete with its more overtly enduro-focused counterparts in this test? The Norco isn’t alone in employing high-pivot suspension; the Trek Slash 9.8 XT also utilizes a sophisticated high-pivot system, which impressed us during initial testing, albeit with a few minor reservations.
Image alt text: The Santa Cruz Megatower GX AXS RSV, a rider favorite and contender for the best enduro bike title, captured during testing.
The Santa Cruz Megatower GX AXS RSV is undeniably a rider favorite within the enduro category, making its inclusion in our 2024 test essential. With its iconic frame silhouette and VPP (Virtual Pivot Point) rear suspension, the Megatower is instantly recognizable as a Santa Cruz. But is the consistent application of the VPP suspension design across their entire mountain bike range a strategic advantage? Located near Santa Cruz headquarters is another renowned bike brand, Ibis Cycles, who entered their new Ibis HD6 GX AXS into our test. Like most Ibis bikes, the HD6 utilizes a DW-Link suspension system but distinguishes itself within their lineup with a unique aesthetic. As an editorial team insider tip, expectations were exceptionally high for this bike, which remains a relatively rare sight on European trails.
With its externally routed cables, understated alloy frame, and robust frame bearings, the new RAAW Madonna V3 embodies a distinctive design philosophy. It’s also the most highly adjustable bike in the test, offering extensive geometry and suspension kinematics customization. Will this adjustability allow every rider to find their perfect setup? The Rocky Mountain Altitude C70 is another newcomer, injecting fresh design language into the Canadian brand’s portfolio with its striking aesthetics, offering numerous customization options through its integrated shock and proven RIDE-4 system.
Image alt text: The Rocky Mountain Altitude C70, a new model with a striking design and customizable features, tested for best enduro bike 2024.
Image alt text: The RAAW Madonna V3, known for its adjustability and robust design, participating in the enduro bike group test.
Our 2024 Enduro Group Test Location: San Romolo & Molini di Triora, Italy
The quaint Italian village of San Romolo is a renowned destination for downhill and enduro professionals, and a favored testing location, because the terrain is truly exceptional. Sandy trails interspersed with fast straights, relentless rock gardens, and challenging root sections, all complemented by well-designed berms, define the riding experience. This demanding environment pushes both rider and bike to their absolute limits, quickly revealing which bikes are podium contenders and which fall short. It’s the ideal proving ground for modern enduro bikes. Located just above the larger town of San Remo, and within an hour’s drive of Finale Ligure, San Romolo may no longer be a hidden gem, but it remains considerably quieter than other popular Ligurian mountain biking destinations, largely due to the rugged nature of its trails – which is precisely what makes it so appealing!
Image alt text: Scenic view of the San Romolo, Italy, enduro bike testing location, featuring mountainous terrain and lush greenery.
Venture further inland, and you’ll discover another idyllic village, Molini di Triora, increasingly recognized within the international mountain biking community. Here, alongside a unique and charming atmosphere, you’ll find a wealth of Alpine-style trails, characterized by hero dirt and a distinct character that perfectly complements the raw challenge of San Romolo. In essence, these locations provided the perfect conditions to thoroughly evaluate the 14 enduro bikes in our comparison test.
Image alt text: Rider testing an enduro bike on a flowy trail in Molini di Triora, Italy, showcasing the diverse terrain of the test location.
Image alt text: Mountainous landscape in Molini di Triora, Italy, highlighting the Alpine-style trails used for testing the best enduro bikes of 2024.
Of course, we embraced “la dolce vita,” indulging in exceptional coffee, Aperol Spritz, and perhaps a few too many pizzas – essential for recovery between demanding test runs. While the 14 enduro bikes were the stars of the show, a 15th ride deserves recognition – our primary shuttle vehicle, a Land Rover, generously provided by our partners at Enduro Rides.
Meet the ENDURO Test Crew: Diverse Riders, Shared Passion
Image alt text: Peter, an enduro bike tester, expressing his priorities for an all-around bike with reliability and thoughtful design.
Peter: When I hop on an enduro bike, my goal is pure enjoyment and escape. I want a bike that eliminates worries about trail difficulty or climb length. Essentially, I seek a well-rounded machine with reliable components and intelligent design details.
Image alt text: Juli, an enduro bike tester, emphasizing her preference for visually appealing bikes and playful handling on trails.
Juli: I’m drawn to aesthetically pleasing bikes, particularly those with a unique flair. I enjoy bike maintenance and appreciate intricate integration, even if it demands extra effort. On the trail, I prioritize a responsive and playful bike, ideal for popping off features and pumping through rollers for speed.
Image alt text: Benne, an enduro bike tester, focusing on practicality and value for bike park riding, prioritizing performance over high-end components.
Benne: For me, enduro bikes are tools for bike park laps and shuttle runs. I prioritize value and trail performance over premium components. As long as the bike performs well and can be customized to my preferences, I’m satisfied.
Image alt text: Simon, an enduro bike tester, highlighting his focus on fitness and backcountry riding, seeking a reliable and efficient enduro bike.
Simon: Healthy living, work-life balance, and exercise are paramount. I avoid junk food and prioritize outdoor activities, ideally epic backcountry rides on an enduro bike. I seek a reliable bike that climbs efficiently yet excels on descents.
Image alt text: Michi, an enduro bike tester with a shuttle company background, emphasizing reliability, ease of maintenance, and intuitive handling in a bike.
Michi: Running a shuttle company means I spend considerable time on bikes. Reliability and ease of maintenance are crucial, ensuring I return safely after a long day. Great looks are a bonus!
2024 Enduro Comparison Test: By the Numbers
Image alt text: Infographic summarizing key statistics of the 2024 enduro bike comparison test, including number of bikes, testers, and test days.
Image alt text: Wide shot of the diverse group of enduro bike testers posing with the lineup of test bikes in the Italian landscape.
Image alt text: Infographic detailing the suspension travel and weight ranges of the enduro bikes tested in the 2024 comparison.
Image alt text: Infographic illustrating the price range and dropper post travel averages of the enduro bikes in the 2024 test.
Image alt text: Testing the Trek Slash 9.8 XT, an enduro bike with high-pivot suspension, on challenging Italian trails.
Image alt text: Cornering shot of the Santa Cruz Megatower GX AXS RSV during the 2024 best enduro bike test, demonstrating its handling.
Image alt text: Infographic highlighting key component specifications of the tested enduro bikes, like brake rotor sizes and drivetrain types.
Image alt text: Action shot of a rider on an enduro bike navigating a berm during the 2024 testing process in Italy.
Image alt text: Rider on a best enduro bike tackling a technical uphill section, showcasing the climbing ability of modern enduro bikes.
Our Enduro Bike Test Criteria: Beyond the Numbers
A capable enduro bike must be prepared for any adventure, without hesitation, complaint, or, most importantly, failure. Shuttle runs, bike park sessions, Alpine traverses, and quick after-work trail rides – an enduro bike should excel in all. A bike’s capability and character are shaped by numerous interconnected factors. What are its limits? What rider, terrain, and riding style does it best suit, and when should riders consider alternatives? These core questions drive our reviews. To understand a bike’s essence and provide valuable purchase advice, we move beyond rigid scoring systems. We analyze the multitude of factors defining its character and individual features that differentiate it from competitors.
Enduro bikes inherently embody compromise, balancing seemingly opposing traits. The best enduro bike of 2024 should be agile, responsive, and fun, yet simultaneously composed and confidence-inspiring at high speeds. Climbing performance also contributes to the overall assessment, though to a lesser degree. Naturally, build quality, components, aesthetics, and frame features are crucial – if you’re investing in a bike, it should be done right. However, all these criteria ultimately serve one primary goal: riding fun! Skeptics might question the measurability of “fun.” We believe it is measurable, and we’ve broken down the key criteria to demonstrate why.
Image alt text: Close-up shot of an enduro bike’s cockpit, highlighting the controls and rider interface critical for handling and performance.
Enduro Bike Handling: Intuitive Control is Key
Judging a bike’s handling solely on geometry figures is not only inaccurate but also misleading. Despite similar geometry numbers, handling can vary dramatically, influenced by suspension design, the relationship between measurements (like reach to stack ratio), and bike setup. A well-designed enduro bike positions the rider centrally, feels intuitive and easy to maneuver, and forgives minor riding errors. Whether you are a novice rider or fatigued after a long day, predictable and intuitive handling is invaluable. Conversely, some bikes demand constant concentration and advanced skills, requiring active weight shifts to maintain traction. Lapses in focus can quickly lead to crashes. Geometry adjustability via flip chips or similar systems, without compromising balance, enhances versatility, allowing riders to fine-tune a bike’s character.
Image alt text: Rider skillfully navigating a tight corner on a Giant Reign Advanced 1 V2 enduro bike, demonstrating agile handling.
Image alt text: Enduro bike tester confidently riding a challenging downhill section, emphasizing the importance of bike handling in demanding terrain.
Composure vs. Agility: The Ideal Balance in an Enduro Bike
Few riding qualities are as inherently opposed as composure and agility. However, the best enduro bikes adeptly blend these seemingly contradictory traits. Composure extends beyond simply blasting through rock gardens at high speed. It encompasses having ample reserves to absorb significant impacts and instill rider confidence – the very foundation of riding fast. Agility describes a bike’s responsiveness and ability to change direction swiftly and efficiently while maintaining control.
Image alt text: The Propain Tyee CF MIX enduro bike showcasing its agility and playful character on a flowing trail section during testing.
Enduro Bike Suspension: Performance Beyond Components
Suspension performance is not solely determined by component quality but is significantly influenced by shock tuning and setup. Trail testing is essential to truly evaluate suspension performance. Ideal suspension strikes a balance: high traction and responsiveness with sufficient mid-stroke support, playful pop, and ample bottom-out resistance for aggressive landings. Bikes like the Ibis HD6 GX AXS and Yeti SB160 T3 excel at absorbing harsh impacts and maximizing traction, allowing riders to focus on the trail ahead. Crucially, they remain responsive, allowing riders to interact with the terrain and launch off trail features.
Enduro Bike Climbing Prowess: Efficiency and Comfort
Despite their downhill focus, the best enduro bikes must also climb efficiently. A comfortable and balanced riding position suitable for long days in the saddle is essential. Efficient pedaling, minimizing physical exertion to reach the trailhead, is crucial. This requires suspension that pedals effectively while maintaining traction. While enduro bike climbs often prioritize fire roads and flowy ascents over technical singletrack, climbing ability remains a factor.
Image alt text: Rider on a best enduro bike climbing a scenic trail, demonstrating the importance of uphill capability in enduro riding.
Image alt text: Enduro bike tester pushing uphill on a challenging section of trail, emphasizing the need for efficient climbing performance in enduro bikes.
Enduro Bike Component Specification: Durability and Performance
We all prefer riding over wrenching. Component selection should prioritize intended use and durability. However, manufacturers sometimes compromise durability to reduce weight and improve spec sheets. Five bikes in our test used lighter tire casings like MAXXIS EXO+, requiring higher tire pressures to prevent pinch flats, sacrificing traction and damping. Pairing fragile tires with expensive carbon rims risks costly damage. Rocky San Romolo trails proved particularly harsh, resulting in tire and rim failures, both alloy and carbon.
Image alt text: Close-up of robust enduro bike brake components, highlighting the trend towards larger rotors for enhanced stopping power on descents.
Positively, most manufacturers now equip enduro bikes with larger brake rotors. All bikes in our test, except the Norco Sight (with a 180mm rear rotor), featured 200mm rear rotors, with some even sporting massive 220mm front rotors. All test bikes used four-piston brakes. Long-travel dropper posts and short seat tubes are increasingly common, with an average dropper travel of 196mm in our test – excellent! Notably, 9 of 14 bikes featured SRAM’s electronic Transmission drivetrain, known for smooth and reliable shifting.
Weight and Enduro Bike Performance: Beyond the Scale
Weight remains a significant factor for riders and manufacturers, influencing trail performance. However, weight distribution is more crucial than absolute weight.
Image alt text: Rider carrying an enduro bike uphill, illustrating the impact of bike weight on climbing efficiency and rider effort.
Image alt text: The Norco Sight C1, a lighter enduro bike, demonstrating its nimble handling and climbing ability in the 2024 test.
Uphill, lower weight saves energy and enhances liveliness. Downhill, the benefits of light weight diminish as momentum takes over. Well-positioned weight can enhance stability and composure, especially beneficial for beginners. Heavier bikes often inspire more confidence on larger jumps, unless slopestyle tricks are the goal. Excessively light bikes can feel unstable, twitchy, and fragile, undermining confidence. Are lighter bikes nimbler? Not necessarily. Suspension performance outweighs weight. The heaviest bike in our test, the Orbea WILD M-LTD, proves this point, excelling with its supportive suspension and surprising agility despite its weight, outperforming lighter bikes like the Rocky Mountain Altitude C70. Even the heaviest analog bike, the YT CAPRA CORE 4, is agile and outperforms many lighter competitors. Weight distribution, center of gravity, rotating mass, and front-rear weight balance all contribute to a bike’s overall performance and must complement geometry, kinematics, and componentry.
Image alt text: Rider adjusting integrated storage compartment on an enduro bike, highlighting the practicality of frame features.
Smart Features: Practicality Enhances the Ride
Intelligent frame features enhance enduro bike enjoyment. Integrated storage or tool mounts allow riders to ditch backpacks or hip packs, improving comfort, especially in warm weather. Threaded bottom brackets simplify bearing replacement, saving time and hassle. All test bikes had bottle cage mounts, eight featured top tube tool mounts, and six offered downtube storage. Manufacturers are increasingly adopting user-friendly storage compartment designs, even when muddy or wearing gloves. BOLD and SCOTT place compartment openings at the downtube bottom, but ground-facing openings can collect dirt, hindering closure. The BOLD required cleaning for proper closure. Overall, 12 of 14 bikes offered integrated storage or tool mounts, a clear trend. More storage is better, reducing items carried on the body, minimizing injury risk from impacts on tools or CO2 cartridges.
Image alt text: Close-up of integrated tool mount on an enduro bike frame, demonstrating a convenient feature for trailside repairs.
Image alt text: Integrated storage compartment on the Rocky Mountain Altitude C70, showcasing a design feature for carrying essential gear within the frame.
Internal cable routing, frame protection, standard spares, and mudguards reduce wear and enhance aesthetics and enjoyment. Generous chainstay, seat stay, and downtube protectors ensure a quiet ride and frame protection. However, some test bikes suffered from unwanted trail noise, detracting from the experience, especially considering their price points. The Trek Slash 9.8 XT and Rocky Mountain Altitude C70 were notable examples.
Image alt text: Close-up of frame protection on the Trek Slash 9.8 XT enduro bike, highlighting a feature designed to protect the frame from trail debris.
Enduro Bike Spec vs. Performance: Trail Worthiness Matters Most
Price is secondary in our test. Performance should justify cost. We don’t assess value based on spec sheets or component bling. Trail performance and rider benefit are paramount. High-end components are meaningless if they underperform on trails. Affordable bikes with lower-tier specs can offer excellent value if they excel where it counts – on the trail. Conversely, seemingly well-specced budget bikes can receive poor ratings if they fail to deliver on the trail. The synergy of suspension, geometry, and components is what truly matters.
Image alt text: Detail shot of the Trek Slash 9.8 XT frame, emphasizing the importance of frame design and construction in enduro bike performance.
2024 Enduro Bike Test: Tops & Flops – Key Takeaways
Tops:
Image alt text: “Spec Galore” – Symbolizing the top trend of high-quality components on many 2024 enduro bikes tested.
Spec Galore: Many test bikes boasted near-flawless components, leaving little to be desired in terms of specification.
Image alt text: “Out of Sight, Out of Mind” – Representing the top feature of integrated storage solutions in many 2024 enduro bikes.
Out of sight, out of mind: 12 of 14 bikes offered integrated on-bike storage for essential trail gear, increasing convenience.
Image alt text: “Nit-picking” – Illustrating the top aspect that minor flaws were found because overall performance was high in the 2024 enduro bike test.
Nit-picking: Complaints were often minor, reflecting the overall high performance level of most test bikes.
Image alt text: “All-round qualities” – Symbolizing the top characteristic of balanced agility and composure in modern enduro bikes.
All-round qualities: Modern enduro bikes strike a remarkable balance between agility and composure, performing well across diverse trails.
Flops:
Image alt text: “High failure rate” – Representing the flop trend of tire and wheel damage due to thin casings in the 2024 enduro bike test.
High failure rate: Thin tire casings and rocky Italian trails led to numerous tire and wheel failures during testing.
Image alt text: “Catapult” – Illustrating the flop of limited dropper post travel due to long seat tubes on some 2024 enduro bikes.
Catapult: Long seat tubes and short-travel dropper posts on some bikes, like the YT CAPRA and Propain Tyee, limited rider maneuverability on descents.
Image alt text: “Ear plugs, please!” – Symbolizing the flop of rattling noises from some 2024 enduro bikes during testing.
Ear plugs, please! Rattling noises from some expensive bikes, like the Rocky Mountain Altitude, detracted from the riding experience.
Image alt text: “Stubborn when dirty” – Representing the flop of storage compartments being difficult to operate when dirty on some 2024 enduro bikes.
Stubborn when dirty: Ground-facing storage compartment openings, like on the BOLD Unplugged, collected dirt, hindering closure and requiring cleaning.
2024 Best Enduro Bike Awards: Best in Test & Best Buy
Overall, all tested enduro bikes performed impressively. Minor criticisms aside, the differences between bikes are noticeable, even for less experienced riders. Handling, riding character, and overall design must align with individual rider needs and preferences. Our quest for the best enduro bike of the year was fiercely competitive, resulting in a clear winner, a Best Buy recommendation, and other notable mentions.
Image alt text: The Bold Unplugged Ultimate enduro bike, noted for its climbing ability and nimble handling in the 2024 test.
Image alt text: Close-up of the Bold Unplugged Ultimate’s integrated shock design, a unique feature of this enduro bike.
To provide clarity, we’ll first briefly summarize the highlights and drawbacks of bikes that didn’t secure podium positions. Starting with BOLD and their Unplugged Ultimate, pioneers of enclosed shock designs, it stands out as one of the best climbers, thanks to its TracLoc system. Downhill, it’s exceptionally nimble but slightly lags behind in high-speed sections, demanding experienced riders due to its direct handling.
Image alt text: The Canyon Strive CFR LTD enduro bike, featuring Shapeshifter technology for adjustable geometry and suspension.
Image alt text: Action shot of the Canyon Strive CFR LTD being ridden on enduro trails, demonstrating its all-around capabilities.
The Canyon Strive CFR LTD, with its Shapeshifter technology, also offers effective climbing assistance. After earning Best Buy in our previous enduro test, it conceded to competitors this year. However, the Strive remains a strong all-rounder, balancing composure and agility effectively, performing well uphill and down. It delivers a potent package at a fair price, directly to your door.
Image alt text: The Giant Reign Advanced 1 V2 enduro bike, praised for its balanced handling and reliable performance in the 2024 test.
Image alt text: Rider testing the Giant Reign Advanced 1 V2 on challenging terrain, highlighting its capabilities as an enduro bike.
The Giant Reign Advanced 1 V2 is also reasonably priced and performs well on paper and on the trail. With high-performance components and intuitive handling, it balances composure and agility, offering a harmonious package suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
Image alt text: The Norco Sight C1 enduro bike, classified as a trail bike but performing with composure in the 2024 enduro test.
Image alt text: Norco Sight C1’s high pivot suspension system in action, contributing to its composed ride and downhill performance.
Despite being classified as a trail bike, the Norco Sight C1 is surprisingly composed compared to many enduro competitors. Progressive geometry and high-pivot suspension contribute significantly to this. The Ride Aligned program simplifies bike setup.
Image alt text: The Orbea Wild M-LTD e-enduro bike, excelling in climbing and offering customizable features through Orbea’s configurator.
Image alt text: Orbea Wild M-LTD being tested uphill, highlighting its exceptional climbing performance as an e-enduro bike.
The Orbea WILD M-LTD, the sole e-mountain bike and most expensive bike in the test, is the undisputed climbing king. Downhill, its suspension and composure excel, partly due to its weight, which impacts agility. Orbea’s online configurator allows extensive customization of components and aesthetics.
Image alt text: The Propain Tyee 6 CF MIX enduro bike, customizable and quiet on trails, offering agile handling.
Image alt text: Propain Tyee 6 CF MIX being ridden on flowing trails, emphasizing its agility and fun-to-ride character.
The Propain Tyee 6 CF also offers customization via its online configurator, explaining our downhill-oriented test build. It’s remarkably quiet on trails but positions the rider high, requiring attentive high-speed riding. However, it’s one of the most agile bikes, excelling on flow trails.
Image alt text: The Rocky Mountain Altitude C70 enduro bike, designed for rough descents and customizable with RIDE-4 system.
Image alt text: Rocky Mountain Altitude C70 descending rapidly, showcasing its downhill capabilities and suitability for rough terrain.
The Rocky Mountain Altitude C70 excels on straight, rough descents, allowing for rapid vertical gains. Less intuitive on tight, twisty trails, requiring more rider input. It’s a specialist for rough terrain rather than an all-rounder, but highly customizable with numerous adjustment options.
Image alt text: The Santa Cruz Megatower GX AXS RSV enduro bike, praised for its agile handling and well-rounded performance in the 2024 test.
Image alt text: Santa Cruz Megatower GX AXS RSV being ridden on technical enduro trails, highlighting its suspension and handling capabilities.
The Santa Cruz Megatower GX AXS RSV maintains Santa Cruz’s refined aesthetics and practical frame features like the Glovebox. Agile, balanced handling and capable suspension make it a strong all-rounder with solid uphill performance.
Image alt text: The Scott Ransom 900 RC enduro bike, featuring TracLoc system and integrated design, tested in the 2024 comparison.
Image alt text: Scott Ransom 900 RC being ridden uphill, demonstrating its climbing efficiency aided by the TracLoc system.
The latest Scott Ransom 900 RC is a well-designed enduro bike with high integration, clever details, and top trail performance. If you prioritize uphill speed with the TracLoc system and can manage its direct handling, the SCOTT is agile, though less composed.
Image alt text: The Trek Slash 9.8 XT enduro bike, known for its high pivot suspension and composed downhill performance.
Image alt text: Trek Slash 9.8 XT descending on enduro trails, showcasing its traction and stability provided by high pivot suspension.
The Trek Slash 9.8 XT is recognizable with its high-pivot suspension and distinctive look. It’s incredibly composed and generates excellent traction. Less nimble on slow, tight trails, requiring more effort. Noise and component spec are areas for improvement.
Image alt text: The Yeti SB160 T3 enduro bike, a previous test winner maintaining its high performance and balanced handling in 2024.
Image alt text: Yeti SB160 T3 being ridden on varied terrain, highlighting its agility, composure, and excellent suspension system.
Defending champion YETI SB160 T3 lived up to expectations, nearly retaining its title. It balances agility and composure exceptionally well, remaining a top performer. Intuitive handling and outstanding suspension are highlights. Missed the top spot by a narrow margin.
Image alt text: The YT CAPRA CORE 4 enduro bike, praised for its outstanding balance and value in the 2024 enduro bike comparison.
Image alt text: YT Capra Core 4 being ridden dynamically, emphasizing its playful character and suitability for trail surfing.
The YT CAPRA CORE 4 is undeniably one of the best bikes in the test, despite not being the absolute top performer. It excels in balancing agility and composure. Ideal for playful riders and trail surfers, offering excellent value and fun for beginners and advanced riders alike.
Best Enduro Bike of 2024 – Best in Test: Ibis HD6 GX AXS
Image alt text: The Ibis HD6 GX AXS, awarded Best in Test for the best enduro bike of 2024, showcasing its winning design.
Ibis HD6 GX AXS | 180/165 mm (f/r)
15.2 kg in size 3 | € 8,898 | Manufacturer’s website
The Ibis HD6 GX AXS harmoniously blends tradition and modernity. While not inexpensive and lacking integrated storage, it surpasses the entire test field, proving a savage yet composed trail weapon. Remarkably nimble for its capability, combined with incredible suspension, it feels unstoppable. Also excels on climbs – a well-deserved Best in Test!
Best Enduro Bike of 2024 – Best Buy Tip: RAAW Madonna V3
Image alt text: The RAAW Madonna V3, awarded Best Buy for the best enduro bike of 2024, highlighting its adjustable geometry and durable design.
RAAW Madonna V3 | 170/160 mm (f/r)
16.7 kg in size L | € 6,500 | Manufacturer’s website
The RAAW Madonna V3 boasts a timeless aesthetic and exceptional adjustability for geometry and suspension kinematics. Despite being among the more affordable bikes and prioritizing durability and maintenance, it’s a top all-rounder, impressing with strong suspension and a balanced blend of composure and agility. Combined with its extremely fair price, the RAAW Madonna V3 rightfully earns our Best Buy Tip!
Image alt text: Group shot of the enduro bike testers celebrating the conclusion of the 2024 best enduro bike test in Italy.
Stay tuned for a future article exploring the biggest surprises, key findings, and our predictions for the future of enduro bikes.
Looking for even more bike capability or a more relaxed ride?
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Words: Peter Walker Photos: Peter Walker
