Exploring the Pinnacle of Price: The Most Expensive Mountain Bikes in 2024

The cost of living is climbing, and the mountain bike industry is no exception. While fantastic deals can be found on previous year models and some prices have adjusted slightly downwards, the upper echelon of mountain bikes continues to reach staggering prices, rivaling the cost of entry-level cars or motorcycles. In 2024, innovation in components and technology is driving prices sky-high, but what exactly do you get when you invest in the Most Expensive Mountain Bike?

Recent years have witnessed remarkable advancements in mountain bike technology. SRAM’s groundbreaking Transmission, eliminating the vulnerable derailleur hanger, and their Maven brakes, delivering exceptional stopping power, exemplify this progress. Fox’s Transfer Neo wireless dropper post offers lightning-fast action and enhanced durability, while the latest iterations of Fox’s Live Valve Neo and RockShox Flight Attendant represent significant leaps in electronically controlled suspension.

Specialized Stumpjumper frame showcasing internal cable routing for brake hoses only, highlighting the move towards wireless technology in high-end mountain bikes.

However, alongside these innovations, some design choices, like frames exclusively compatible with wireless electronic drivetrains, raise eyebrows. While currently limited to SRAM, with Shimano expected to follow suit, these advancements come at a premium.

The combination of cutting-edge suspension technology, battery-powered components, and advanced frame designs culminates in eye-watering price tags. This article delves into some of the most expensive mountain bikes of 2024, examining models tested by our team and others that remain aspirational dream bikes.

Top-Tier Mountain Bikes of 2024: Pedal Edition

Specialized S-Works Epic 8: $24,000 AUD (Approximately $16,000 USD)

Specialized’s S-Works Epic 8 represents the pinnacle of cross-country mountain bike technology and performance, justifying its position among the most expensive mountain bikes.

Specialized’s flagship cross-country race machine, the S-Works Epic 8, leaves little room for improvement in terms of specification and trail performance. However, this near-perfection comes at a cost, boasting a staggering $24,000 AUD price tag.

For this price, expect nothing less than top-of-the-line components. The S-Works Epic 8 is equipped with a full SRAM XX SL Transmission drivetrain, including a power meter, SRAM Level Ultimate brakes, a Reverb AXS dropper post, and RockShox SID/SIDLuxe Flight Attendant electronic suspension. Rolling on Roval Traverse SL carbon wheels with Quarq TyreWiz 2.0 tire pressure sensors, this bike requires charging nine batteries! Investing in SRAM’s Four Battery Charger might be wise for owners of this high-performance machine.

Close-up view of the SRAM XX SL Transmission drivetrain components on the Specialized S-Works Epic 8, highlighting the premium, wireless technology.

Detailed shot of the RockShox Flight Attendant suspension system on the Specialized S-Works Epic 8, showcasing the electronic control and integration.

Full bike shot of the Specialized S-Works Epic 8, demonstrating its sleek design and high-performance XC race geometry.

While $24,000 AUD is an astronomical price for a bicycle, especially a non-motorized one, the Flight Attendant electronic suspension significantly contributes to the cost. Opting for a non-S-Works model without electronic suspension can save you around $10,000 AUD. Having tested the S-Works Epic 8, we can attest to its exceptional performance, making it arguably the highest-performing XC bike we’ve ever ridden. For an in-depth look, check out our detailed review of the Specialized Epic 8.

Trek Slash 9.9 XX AXS T-Type Gen 6: $20,000 AUD (Approximately $13,300 USD)

Trek Slash Gen 6 featuring SRAM XX AXS T-Type drivetrain, emphasizing the advanced components and high-pivot suspension design.

The Trek Slash Gen 6, equipped with SRAM XX AXS T-Type drivetrain, exemplifies a high-performance enduro mountain bike with a price tag reflecting its premium components and advanced suspension.

Trek’s enduro beast, the Slash, underwent significant updates for 2024, featuring a new high-pivot suspension platform and mixed-wheel configuration. The carbon fiber Slash range starts at $9,999 AUD for the 9.8 GX AXS T-Type build, offering aluminum wheels and RockShox Select+ suspension.

For those willing to double their investment, the Slash 9.9 XX AXS T-Type tops out at $20,000 AUD. This flagship model boasts top-tier RockShox Ultimate suspension, an XX Transmission drivetrain, Trek’s ABP high pivot suspension, a Vivid shock, a robust Zeb fork, Bontrager carbon wheels and cockpit, and integrated downtube storage.

Close-up view of the RockShox suspension components on the Trek Slash, highlighting the high-performance enduro-focused setup.

Detail shot of the Bontrager carbon cockpit and controls on the Trek Slash, showcasing the premium components and integrated design.

Action shot of the Trek Slash in a trail environment, demonstrating its enduro capabilities and high-pivot suspension in action.

We tested the well-equipped GX AXS Transmission version of the Trek Slash Gen 6; you can find all the details in our comprehensive review.

Interestingly, the previous iteration of the most expensive Slash in our 2022 roundup was priced at $16,600 AUD with a similar high-end specification, including Flight Attendant suspension, indicating a potential shift in pricing strategies despite component advancements.

Yeti SB160 Turq XX AXS T-Type: $16,990 AUD (Approximately $11,300 USD)

Yeti SB160 frame in a studio shot, emphasizing its premium Turq carbon construction and distinctive Yeti design.

Yeti SB160, known for its premium construction and performance, often associated with a higher price point in the mountain bike market.

Yeti bikes, often jokingly referred to as “bicycles for dentists,” have consistently occupied the higher end of the price spectrum. The Yeti SB160, launched in late 2022, remains one of the most expensive framesets available, priced at $7,490 AUD for the Turq series frameset alone. The top-spec XX AXS T-Type build reaches $16,990 AUD, featuring a premium Turq series frame, SRAM XX Transmission drivetrain, and Fox Factory suspension.

Yeti, similar to Santa Cruz, offers framesets in two carbon grades. The premium ‘Turq’ series uses a higher-grade carbon fiber and layup for optimized stiffness and compliance. The ‘S’ series frames utilize a revised layup, reducing manufacturing costs but adding approximately 225g per frame.

Yeti’s Switch Infinity link suspension system on a Yeti SB160, illustrating the brand’s proprietary suspension technology.

Yeti’s Switch Infinity link, a key component in their suspension design, controls suspension movement, contributing to the bike’s high performance and price.

Close-up view of the Switch Infinity link on a Yeti SB100, providing a detailed look at the suspension technology.

While we haven’t tested the SB160, its reputation and our experience with other Yeti models suggest it’s an exceptional machine. Notably, Richie Rude has ridden an SB160 to victory in the EWS/EDR season overall in both 2023 and 2024, a testament to its race-winning pedigree. While purchasing an SB160 doesn’t guarantee professional-level speed, it certainly can’t hurt.

Ibis HD6: $16,790 AUD (Approximately $11,200 USD)

Ibis HD6 in a natural outdoor setting, showcasing its versatile design and capability for both trail and bike park riding.

Ibis’s latest iteration of the Mojo HD platform, the HD6, features a redesigned aesthetic and a mixed-wheel setup. Retaining the DW Link suspension platform, the HD6 offers a versatile and capable suspension package. Priced at $6,390 AUD for the frame and Fox Float X2 shock, or $16,790 for the top-tier complete build, the HD6 is a significant investment.

Action shot of the Ibis HD6 on a technical trail, highlighting its descending capabilities and mixed-wheel configuration.

Detail view of the Ibis HD6 frame and suspension components, showcasing the DW-Link system and frame construction.

Rider’s perspective of the Ibis HD6 cockpit and controls, emphasizing the bike’s trail-oriented design and ergonomics.

The HD6 has become our long-term test bike, proving its suitability for demanding pedal-powered missions and bike park adventures, while also serving as a platform for testing new components. Its balance of climbing efficiency and descending prowess, combined with customizable setup options, makes the HD6 a compelling choice for riders seeking a bike capable of aggressive riding and steep terrain, yet still efficient for long days in the saddle. Dive deeper into the HD6’s performance in our comprehensive review.

Santa Cruz Hightower XX AXS RSV: $16,999 AUD (Approximately $11,300 USD)

Santa Cruz Hightower in a vibrant purple color, showcasing its modern design and premium components.

Santa Cruz, consistently positioned in the premium segment of the market, continues this trend with the latest Hightower. The top-tier XX AXS RSV build retails for $16,999 AUD and is equipped with high-end components including Fox Factory suspension, a SRAM XX Transmission drivetrain, Maven Ultimate brakes, and Reserve 30HD carbon wheels with Industry Nine Hydra hubs.

Close-up shot of the Santa Cruz Hightower’s SRAM XX Transmission drivetrain and Reserve carbon wheels, emphasizing the high-end specifications.

Detail view of the Fox Factory suspension and Maven Ultimate brakes on the Santa Cruz Hightower, highlighting the premium component selection.

Santa Cruz Hightower frame detail showing the VPP suspension linkage and frame construction, emphasizing the brand’s engineering and design.

In return for the investment, riders benefit from Santa Cruz’s proven VPP suspension platform and a lifetime warranty on the frame and wheels, including crash replacement for the latter. Santa Cruz frames are renowned for their robust construction, durability, and easily serviceable bearings, with free replacements available through their warranty program.

Santa Cruz has moved away from aluminum models, increasing the entry cost to the brand. They offer two carbon fiber grades, with the more affordable C frame being slightly heavier than the premium CC option. We attended the launch of the latest Hightower in Valle Maria Piemonte, Italy; read our detailed review for complete information.

Pivot Switchblade: $17,999 AUD (Approximately $12,000 USD)

Pivot Switchblade showcasing its updated frame design and geometry for enhanced trail performance.

Pivot’s third-generation Switchblade platform, a 160/142mm travel trail bike, boasts enhanced capabilities for 2024. While visually similar to its predecessor, updates to the frame, geometry, and suspension platform have improved its descending abilities and overall appeal. Pivot, consistently positioned in the premium market segment, prices the top-tier Switchblade at $17,999 AUD.

As expected at this price point, the Switchblade features top-tier components, including Fox Factory suspension, SRAM XX Transmission, and DT Swiss XMC 1501 carbon wheels. Our medium-sized test bike weighed in at a respectable 14.14kg, delivering a responsive and agile ride. Geometry and DW-link suspension improvements over the previous model enhance descending capabilities, providing a smoother, more stable ride at speed. This enhanced versatility may attract riders who previously considered the longer-travel Firebird, as the new Switchblade offers a more adaptable option for riders not requiring 170mm of travel.

Close-up view of the Pivot Switchblade’s Fox Factory suspension and cockpit, highlighting the premium components and setup.

Detail shot of the SRAM XX Transmission drivetrain on the Pivot Switchblade, showcasing the wireless electronic shifting technology.

Action image of the Pivot Switchblade on a trail, demonstrating its all-around trail riding capabilities and balanced design.

Forbidden Dreadnought V2: $16,999 AUD (Approximately $11,300 USD)

Forbidden Dreadnought V2 in the ‘Bloody Sabbath’ colorway, emphasizing its high-pivot suspension design and aggressive enduro aesthetic.

Forbidden Bikes, based in Cumberland, Canada, has championed high-pivot suspension since its inception in 2019. The 2024 Dreadnought V2, a 160mm rear travel high-pivot enduro bike, is compatible with both 29in and mixed-wheel configurations.

Similar to the Trek Slash, the Dreadnought’s high-pivot suspension aims to deliver a bump-absorbing and stable ride via a rearward axle path, albeit through a different suspension design. While the Slash utilizes Trek’s ABP four-bar platform with a high main pivot, the Dreadnought employs an inverted four-bar layout called the Trifecta suspension platform.

Rear suspension detail of the Forbidden Dreadnought V2, showcasing the Trifecta high-pivot suspension system.

Front view of the Forbidden Dreadnought V2, highlighting the RockShox Zeb fork and aggressive enduro geometry.

Top tube detail of the Forbidden Dreadnought V2, showing the frame construction and unique colorway.

While we haven’t tested the Dreadnought, we are eager to compare its suspension characteristics against other high-pivot designs. Framesets start at $7,299 AUD, with the top-tier XO build kit reaching $16,999 AUD. This premium build includes a SRAM XO Transmission drivetrain, RockShox Zeb and Vivid Ultimate suspension, Maven Ultimate brakes, and Crankbrothers Synthesis Carbon wheels.

Do Motors and Batteries Inflate the Price Further?

E-MTB technology has progressed rapidly. Early e-mountain bikes were heavy with unnatural power delivery. In 2024, lightweight e-MTBs are emerging, approaching the weight of traditional bikes with impressive power and torque. We also see full-power motors that eliminate descending clatter and integrate with electronic drivetrains for auto-shifting capabilities.

Significant R&D investments by brands to lead in the e-MTB category, combined with increased manufacturing and shipping costs, contribute to the staggeringly high prices of top-tier e-MTBs.

Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo: $23,500 AUD (Approximately $15,700 USD)

Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo, recognized as a benchmark in full-powered e-MTBs, equipped with top-of-the-line components.

For the ultimate e-MTB experience, the S-Works Turbo Levo stands out, retailing for $23,500 AUD. Specialized’s Turbo Full Power 2.2 motor delivers 90Nm of torque and 565W peak power. Its on-trail performance is exceptional, complemented by premium components like SRAM’s XX Transmission drivetrain and Fox Factory suspension. This e-MTB is comparable to a McLaren in the bike world—excluding McLaren’s own e-MTB offering, which, surprisingly, is priced lower.

We have extensively reviewed the Levo range and have been testing the Turbo Levo Pro, just one step below the S-Works, since mid-2023.

Trek Slash+ 9.9 XO AXS T-Type: $17,999 AUD (Approximately $12,000 USD)

Trek Slash+ e-MTB, blending high-pivot suspension with a quiet TQ motor system.

TQ HPR50 motor integration on the Trek Slash+, highlighting the compact and quiet e-MTB motor system.

Suspension components and frame detail on the Trek Slash+, showing the high-pivot design and e-MTB integration.

Full profile shot of the Trek Slash+ e-MTB, demonstrating its overall design and integration of e-MTB components.

Trek’s Slash+ combines its high-pivot suspension with the quiet TQ HPR50 motor. With 170mm of travel, 50Nm of torque, and a 580Wh battery, it offers a compelling ride experience, but at a premium price. The Slash+ range in Australia includes two models, both with the same carbon frame and TQ HPR50 motor. The 9.7 SLX/XT model starts at $11,500 AUD, while the 9.9 XO AXS T-Type reaches $17,999 AUD.

Intriguingly, the non-motorized Slash 9.9 XO AXS T-Type, with nearly identical specifications to the Slash+, also retails for $17,999 AUD. This price parity suggests e-MTB pricing might be becoming more competitive with traditional bikes.

Scott Lumen eRIDE 900 SL: $25,599 AUD (Approximately $17,000 USD)

Scott Lumen eRIDE 900 SL, highlighting its lightweight e-MTB design and premium components aimed at minimizing weight.

Scott’s Lumen eRIDE, launched in 2023, is a lightweight electric mountain bike, weighing a claimed 15.5kg. Representing Scott’s most advanced and expensive bike to date, the 900 SL model retailed for $25,599 AUD at launch, making it one of the most expensive mountain bikes and the lightest e-MTB we had encountered.

The Lumen features the quiet TQ HPR50 motor and a 360Wh battery, with optional 160Wh range extender compatibility. It also includes a Fox Nude 5T rear shock integrated within the frame, Fox 34 fork, Syncros Fraser SL RC one-piece cockpit, and Syncros Silverton SL2-30 wheels with carbon spokes, all contributing to its lightweight and high price.

We tested the Lumen eRIDE 910, featuring the same HMX carbon frame and motor, but with a more affordable build. Its lightweight and responsive nature, combined with the near-silent TQ motor, provided the most natural e-MTB ride feel we’ve experienced. Read our full review for detailed ride impressions.

Integrated Fox Nude 5T rear shock within the frame of the Scott Lumen eRIDE, showcasing innovative lightweight design.

Syncros Fraser SL RC one-piece carbon cockpit on the Scott Lumen eRIDE, highlighting weight-saving and high-end component choices.

Syncros Silverton SL2-30 carbon wheels with molded carbon spokes on the Scott Lumen eRIDE, emphasizing the focus on lightweight and premium components.

Honourable Mentions from Abroad

For those seeking even more exclusivity and expense, looking beyond domestic options reveals unique and costly bikes. Importing frames is feasible, but factor in import taxes and potential GST, which can significantly increase the final price of these boutique frames.

Actofive P-Train: $11,300 AUD (Frame Only, Approximately $7,500 USD)

Actofive P-Train CNC aluminum high-pivot enduro frame, emphasizing its unique construction and adjustability.

Full frame view of the Actofive P-Train, showcasing its distinctive CNC machined aluminum construction.

Actofive P-Train, from Dresden, Germany, is a CNC aluminum high-pivot enduro bike with impressive adjustability. Its frame is constructed from two CNC-machined 7075 aluminum billet halves, bonded with industrial adhesives for optimized stiffness and compliance.

CNC machining detail on the Actofive P-Train frame, highlighting the precision manufacturing process.

Frame joint detail of the Actofive P-Train, showing the bonded construction of the CNC machined halves.

The P-Train frame, priced at a staggering $11,300 AUD excluding shock and import duties, is likely the most expensive frame available. With a four-to-six-month lead time, it represents ultimate boutique exclusivity. We’ve yet to see one in person, but remain captivated by its unique design and construction.

Nicolai Saturn 14 Swift HRZ: Approximately $16,500 AUD (Approximately $11,000 USD)

Nicolai Saturn 14 Swift HRZ lightweight e-MTB, showcasing its German-engineered frame and progressive geometry.

Nicolai bikes, another German brand, are known for progressive geometry and hand-made frames, representing engineering artistry with a corresponding price tag. The Saturn 14 Swift HRZ, their first lightweight e-MTB, features a Bosch SX motor and 400Wh battery. Equipped with a SRAM XO Transmission drivetrain, DT Swiss XMC 1501 carbon wheels, and Hope Tech 4 brakes, it’s priced around $16,500 AUD, excluding import duties and freight, potentially reaching $20,000 AUD total. Despite its industrial appearance, it weighs a claimed 20.5kg, a reasonable figure for a robust e-MTB.

Nicolai Saturn 14 Swift HRZ frame detail, highlighting the German craftsmanship and industrial design aesthetic.

Bosch SX motor integration on the Nicolai Saturn 14 Swift HRZ, showing the lightweight e-MTB motor system.

Flow’s Final Thoughts

This overview presents some of the most expensive bikes currently available, showcasing the pinnacle of mountain bike technology and design. This is not an exhaustive list, but rather a glimpse into the high-end market.

For those seeking the best and willing to invest, these machines offer incredible performance and features. However, excellent and reliable bikes are available at significantly lower price points. Most of the bikes highlighted are also offered in more affordable configurations. Direct-to-consumer brands like Canyon and Polygon provide exceptional value in both pedal-powered and e-MTB categories. Additionally, the current industry overstock situation presents opportunities for finding great deals on previous season models at local bike shops.

The pricing comparison between the Trek Slash and Slash+, with identical prices for similar builds, is a key observation. This could signal a trend towards e-MTB pricing becoming more aligned with non-motorized bikes. We anticipate e-MTB prices to become more accessible as motor and battery technology continues to advance and mature.

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