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Bikepacking & Adventure Cycling

13 Best Touring Bikes For Worldwide Travel 2024

Looking for top-tier traditional touring bikes? You’re in the right place. As the cycling industry evolves, particularly in the gravel and bikepacking realms, the landscape of adventure cycling has changed dramatically. Yet, traditional touring bikes, once the go-to for adventure, remain as relevant as ever for fully loaded, long-distance journeys.

What Are The Best Touring Bikes – Our Recommendations

Panorama forillon, koga worldtraveller.

• Tout Terrain Silkroad

Bombtrack Arise Tour

• Falken Jagd Hoplit +

Surly Disc Trucker

Decathlon riverside touring 900, vivente gibb, salsa marrakesh, genesis tour de fer, co-op cycles adv 1.1.

While gravel bikes gain popularity for their versatility, traditional touring bikes continue to be the definitive choice for extensive touring on paved roads and beyond, including off-road expeditions. Today’s variety of touring bikes, catering to a wide spectrum of adventures and terrains, can seem daunting.

This article aims to simplify your decision-making process by focusing on the type of adventures you’re planning. We’ve curated a diverse collection of modern, capable touring bikes suitable for everything from month-long trips to lightweight, credit card-style touring. Here, you’ll find a touring bike for every cyclist, regardless of your preferred style or destination.

Light Touring or Gravel Touring Bikes

Kona sutra se.

(A Classic All-Road Touring Bike with Modern Touches)

Price: $2,199 USD (about $3,446 AUD)

Bomb proof, rock solid, smooth and comfortable ride. with traditional touring bike components; Brooks Saddle, bar-end shifters and Deore groupset

Weight :  14kg (30.86 lbs)

Frame/Fork Material : Frame – Kona Cromoly Butted . Fork –  Kona Project Two Cromoly Disc Touring

Groupset & Drivetrain :  Shimano Deore, 26/36/48t crank and Shimano Deore 11-36t 10spd cassette

Gear Ratios :  19.90″ to 120.50″ (0.72 to 4.36 ratio)

Geometry (M) : Stack/Reach ratio – 1.56 chainstay 445mm – wheelbase 1,073mm – (steering) headtube angle 70.5 deg – trail 71mm – Fork offset/rake 50mm. Bottom bracket drop 72mm

Tires and Wheel Sizes (Tire Clearance) :  700c x 40mm With a max tire clearance 29×2.3″ (Check clearance with racks)

• Many mounting options
• Comfy, smooth and rock solid bike
• Clearance for 29×2.3″ tires
• Able to ride MTB sections
• Traditional bar-end shifters
• Rides well loaded or light
• A little sluggish when you need that extra speed for endurance bikepacking events
• Breaks have been known to freeze during winter
• Derailleur hanger is known to break slightly easier then others
• Have had issues with paint quality overtime

The Kona Sutra, my personal bike of choice, embodies the essence of a traditional touring bike while incorporating a 1x gravel drivetrain, a unique twist on the classic design. While the SE model maintains the frame of the Sutra LTD but stands out with its more versatile gear range. An especially notable feature is the stock Brooks saddle, a hallmark of comfort and quality.

On my own Kona Sutra LTD, I’ve managed to fit tires as large as 29×2.3″ without fenders, suggesting the potential for even broader options beyond the standard 700x40c Schwalbe Marathon Mondial tires that it usually sports.

The detailed specifications below are tailored to the touring bike variant of the Kona Sutra. However, if you’re intrigued by the prospect of a build more suited to off-road adventures, I highly recommend reading our review of the Kona Sutra LTD .

This bike is astonishingly versatile. I frequently use mine on challenging mountain bike trails , and it’s proven its worth time and again, effortlessly handling jumps and rugged terrain. Its performance as a commuter is equally impressive, proving itself capable of handling a diverse range of conditions.

In comparison to its peers, like the Trek 520 and Surly LHT, the Kona Sutra boasts superior specifications on paper. It features a full Deore groupset and includes bar-end shifters, which add a touch of traditional touring aesthetic.

A bombproof, fun machine that can take you anywhere. Offering a smooth and comfortable ride, it stands out as a rock-solid choice for both enthusiasts and serious cyclists alike.

(A true Swiss Army knife for on-the-go travel bike)

Price: $2,399 CAD (about $2,747 AUD)

Weight :  13.15 kg (29 lbs)

Frame/Fork Material : Frame – REYNOLDS 525  Steel Fork –  CUSTOM CR-MO 4130 Steel

Groupset & Drivetrain :  2×11 microSHIFT XLE, FSA – FSA OMEGA 2X MEGAEXO, 46/30T crank and MICROSHIFT XLE 11-42T cassette

Gear Ratios :  19.85″ to 111.81″ (0.71 to 4.18 ratio)

Geometry (M) : Stack/Reach ratio – 1.55 chainstay 455mm – wheelbase 1,050mm – (steering) headtube angle 71.8 deg – trail 67mm – Fork offset/rake 50mm. Bottom bracket drop 76mm

Tires and Wheel Sizes (Tire Clearance) :  700c x 44mm With a max tire clearance 700c x 50

The Forillon by Panorama Cycles is a steel all-road touring bike that combines a mid-component range with a budget-friendly price, making it an ideal choice for adventurers looking to explore the world. This bike is designed for efficient riding across various road types and maintains stability and ease of handling even when fully loaded with luggage.

At its core, the Forillon is a testament to strength and reliability, a theme that is evident in its choice of components. It features 36 spoke double-walled rims with reinforced eyelets, paired with robust 700x50mm tires, ensuring durability and stability on diverse terrains. The frame and fork of the Forillon are constructed from high-quality materials, including Reynolds 525 steel tubeset and 4130 steel, known for their resilience and long-lasting performance.

The Forillon stands out with its integrated kickstand plate and a plethora of mounting options, which include front and rear racks, fenders, and triple cage mounts on the fork and under the downtube. These features make it an excellent choice for riders who require a bike that can carry substantial gear on extended tours.

Other noteworthy aspects of the Forillon include its low bottom bracket, long chainstays, and a 2×11 drivetrain, all contributing to a comfortable and stable ride.

The bike also boasts mechanical BB7 brakes and bar-end shifters as part of its well-rounded build kit. Additionally, the frame and fork are treated with an anti-corrosion internal ED coating, enhancing the bike’s durability.

The Forillon is not just about functionality; it also has an aesthetic appeal. The frame graphics, inspired by topographic maps and created by Vancouver-based artists Pellvetica, add a unique touch to the bike’s design.

Offered in three sizes and weighing 29 pounds for the medium build, the Forillon is available at a retail price of $2,149 CAD (approximately $1,675 USD) through PanoramaCycles.com. This bike is a reliable, versatile, and stylish choice for those looking to embark on long-distance, all-road touring adventures around the globe.

(The Ultimate Expedition Touring Bike)

Price: Approx $6,000

Weight :  17.5 kg (38.6 lbs)

Frame/Fork Material : Full Aluminium Build

Groupset & Drivetrain :  Shimano Deore XT groupset or Rohloff drive belt

Geometry (M) : Stack/Reach ratio – 1.57 chainstay 477 mm – wheelbase 1,170 mm – (steering) headtube angle 69.5 deg – trail 82.4 mm – Fork offset/rake 50 mm. Bottom bracket drop 60 mm

Tires and Wheel Sizes (Tire Clearance) : Possibility to mount tires up to 72mm wide

• Can be packed up to 120 kg
• Super stiff for touring
• Built for durability & serviceability
• Includes mini-kick stand on the front rack and other accessories
• Life time warranty on the frame
• More standard touring equipment then most bikes
• Top of the line components
• Dynamo hub and lighting system as standard.
• Not the lightest touring bike on the block
• Quite expensive then most

The KOGA Worldtraveller series, recognized for its robust and versatile trekking bikes, is an ideal choice for all kinds of cycling trips. These bikes are designed to comfortably carry all your essentials, whether you’re gliding over smooth asphalt or tackling rugged gravel roads.

A notable aspect of the series is its unique alloy build. Despite the current popularity of steel touring bikes, the alloy construction of the Worldtraveller provides a solid and reliable alternative.

This bike remains stable and performs smoothly under a touring load, even when outfitted with sensible width tires. This combination of strength and smooth ride quality sets the Worldtraveller apart in the realm of long-distance touring bikes.

The series has been recently updated, with the new WorldTraveller model featuring a total load capacity of 180 kg. It can accommodate tires up to 72mm wide, enhancing its suitability for various terrains. The integrated rear carrier and new frame design contribute to improved rigidity and cycling performance.

For those interested in an electric version, the E-WorldTraveller includes the Bosch Smart System and a 750Wh battery. Customization is a key feature of the range, offered through the KOGA Signature programme.

The Worldtraveller range comprises several models:

• The standard WorldTraveller, a versatile trekking bike with numerous attachment points for luggage.
• The E-WorldTraveller, an electric variant with a Bosch motor and 750Wh battery.
• The E-WorldTraveller Suspension model, featuring a suspension fork with 100mm travel.
• The Worldtraveller Classic, a proven model known for its reliability.
• The Worldtraveller-S, offering choices in front forks, groupsets, and drive belts.

KOGA also offers extensive customization options through their Signature programme, allowing riders to tailor their bike to their preferences. Test rides are available to prospective buyers, showcasing the bike’s capabilities.

Tout Terrain Silkroad II 275

(A Steel Expedition Dream!)

Price: From €5,349 / $5,835 USD or $8,711 AUD

Weight :  From 14 kg (30.09 lbs)

Frame/Fork Material : Full Steel Build

Groupset & Drivetrain :  Rohloff drive belt

Geometry (M) : Stack/Reach ratio – 1.52 chainstay 455 mm – wheelbase 1,081 mm – (steering) headtube angle 70.5 deg – trail 73 mm – Fork offset/rake 47 mm. Bottom bracket drop 60 mm

Tires and Wheel Sizes (Tire Clearance) :  27.5″x2.0″ / With a max tire clearance 26″ x 2.0″ (50mm) with mudguard, 27.5″ x 2.0″ (50mm) with mudguard, 700C x 42 mm with mudguard

• Steel frame and oversized tubing create a robust structure
• Suitable for various terrains and heavy loads
• Standard with Rohloff hub or belt drive
• Customisable
• High-end components and features contribute to a higher price point
• Limited tire clearance
• Limited availability in certain regions

The Tout Terrain Silkroad is a high-end touring bike designed by the German company Tout Terrain. Known for their specialization in steel bikes for about 15 years, Tout Terrain’s Silkroad incorporates several innovative features and is built for durability and versatility.

The bike’s frame is made from steel tubes manufactured and welded in Taiwan, chosen for their ability to be easily repaired and modified. The Silkroad frames are among the first to pass rigorous safety testing, supporting a combined weight of rider, bike, and luggage up to 180kg/400lb. The bike uses oversized, thick-wall tubing to build a strong structure, which is beneficial for carrying front and rear luggage.

Key features include a steering limiter to prevent cable damage, an integrated steering lock to stabilize the bike when parked, and the option for either double-legged or rear-mounted kickstands. The Silkroad also boasts an integrated stainless steel rear rack designed to be indestructible and compatible with both regular panniers and the specially designed QL3 system panniers.

For power and lighting, the Silkroad uses 12mm thru-axles front and rear for maximum stiffness and alignment, and incorporates SL dynamo wiring in the fork for powering lights and USB chargers. The lighting system features Schmidt lights and a dynamo hub, and a Cinq Plug5 Plus USB charger integrated into the steerer tube.

The bike is equipped with a 14-speed Rohloff hub for the drive system, known for its reliability and efficiency, especially in challenging conditions. It also features a belt drive, preferred for its low maintenance requirements. Hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable stopping power, and the bike allows for the use of up to 203mm rotors.

The Silkroad offers different wheel size options, with 27.5″ being recommended due to the availability of high-quality tires. The bike is also fitted with Tout Terrain’s in-house “Black Label” components and a Selle Royal saddle from the Scientia range.

(Classic Touring Bike Aesthetics)

Price: $1,499 USD / $2,240 AUD (Estimates)

Weight :  14.7 kg (32.4 lbs)

Frame/Fork Material : Frame – 4130 double butted CrMo, heat-treated front triangle, TA sliding dropouts, rack/fender mounts . Fork –  4130 CrMo, TA, rack/fender mounts, internal hub dynamo cable routing

Groupset & Drivetrain :  BOMBTRACK AMES forged aluminium crank and MICROSHIFT CS-H103 10-speed, 11 – 42T cassette

Gear Ratios :  19.62″ to 115.53″ (0.71 to 4.18 ratio)

Geometry (M) : Stack/Reach ratio 1.51 – chainstay 435mm – wheelbase 1,045 mm – (steering) headtube angle 70.5 deg – trail 68mm – Fork offset/rake 55mm. Bottom bracket drop 70mm

Tires and Wheel Sizes (Tire Clearance) : With a max tire clearance of 700C x 40C / 700C x 35C with fender

• Includes dynamo, quality Tubus racks, and lighting for an affortable price
• Microshift bar-end shifters give you the seamless and classic touring bike feel and look
• Affortable price tag
• Only has 32 spokes on wheels
• The mudguards are know for being low quality and breaking
• The frame length is a little short, for that extra stability when under a load, shorter then most touring bikes.

Offering a blend of traditional touring design and modern components, all wrapped in an eye-catching metallic green color that is sure to turn heads.

At its core, the Arise Tour features a double-butted steel frameset known for its adaptability and resilience. Enhancing its touring capabilities are the Tubus touring racks and aluminum fenders, designed to handle all your storage needs while protecting you from the elements. Illumination for those early starts or late finishes is provided by a full lighting system from KT and Supernova, ensuring safety and visibility in all conditions.

The bike’s transmission system is built for reliability over long distances. It features Microshift’s ultra-reliable bar end shifters and a 10-speed clutch mechanism. The wide-range 11 – 42T cassette and a subcompact 46 / 30 chainset make for a versatile and efficient setup, ideal for tackling various terrains with ease.

When it comes to braking, the Arise Tour relies on TRP Spyre C mechanical calipers, coupled with a 180 mm rotor upfront. This setup offers controlled and effective braking, particularly important on those thrilling long descents.

Every component on the Arise Tour has been meticulously selected for its proven reliability and durability. The goal is to let you focus on the joy of riding, rather than worrying about bike maintenance.

FalkenJagd Hoplit +

(Pinion Titanium Touring Bike)

Price: €6,798 / $7,415 USD / $11,000 AUD

Weight :  17 kg (37.5 lbs)

Frame/Fork Material : Full Titanium Build

Groupset & Drivetrain :  Belt Drive

Tires and Wheel Sizes (Tire Clearance) :  WTB Trail Boss 27.5 x 2.35″ / Clearance for 650b x 3″ or 29er x 2.6″

• High quality components made of titanium and almost everything on the bike is tianium not just frame and fork
• Copes well on all surfaces
• Ultimate touring bike build!
• Very expensive

The Falkenjagd Hoplit PI Plus is a standout travel and expedition bike, designed for those who seek durability and reliability on long bike trips. Named after the elite warriors of antiquity, this bike lives up to its name with its robust build and high-quality components.

At the heart of the Hoplit PI Plus is its titanium frame, known for being extremely stable, scratch, and corrosion-resistant. The frame design, featuring a longer head tube and a slightly shorter top tube, facilitates a more upright sitting position, optimal for touring.

A key aspect of its design is the lower bottom bracket, which, by lowering the center of gravity, especially when carrying luggage, results in improved stability.

The bike’s rear triangle is notably sturdy, with chainstays designed for increased tire clearance and comfort. The rear dropouts are a technological marvel, allowing for longitudinally adjustable quick-release axles to optimize belt tension, and incorporating an integrated stand holder and a strap lock.

The Hoplit PI Plus is equipped with the Pinion P1.18 gear hub and a low-maintenance Gates CDX toothed belt, ensuring a smooth and reliable ride. It can accommodate either 28 or 27.5-inch wheels, offering flexibility depending on the rider’s preference for smooth running or damping.

This bike is an all-terrain champion, providing maximum comfort even under high payloads, thanks to its wide tires. It stands out for its high-quality titanium components, including the frame, fork, spacers, stem, handlebars, seatpost, luggage rack, and bottle cage.

Other features include a SON hub dynamo and lighting, a comfortable Brooks Cambium C17 saddle, Falkenjagd Titan Axios racks, Pitlock thru axles with theft protection, Magura MT7 4-piston disc brakes, and SKS Bluemels B65 mudguards.

The Hoplit PI Plus version extends its capabilities with its ability to take tire widths up to 3.0 inches (650B) and 2.6″ (29″). It boasts specially adapted chainstays and rear dropouts, which are adjustable in length for optimal belt tension. The bike’s design also ensures neatly laid cable pulls and flat mudguard and light mounts for a secure and aesthetic finish.

Trek 520 Disc

(The Longest-Running Touring Bike On The Market)

Price: $1,829.99 USD

Weight :  14.2 kg (31.31 lbs)

Frame/Fork Material : Steel frame / Alloy fork – Trek butted chromoly disc touring, 135×5 mm QR, Tire Clearance: 2″, Color: Diablo Red and Alloy disc touring fork, rack mounts, 100×5 mm ThruSkew.

Groupset & Drivetrain :  Shimano Alivio with 48/36/26T crankset and 9-speed 11-36T cassette.

Gear Ratios Inches :  19.79″ to 119.81″ (0.72 to 4.36 ratio)

Geometry (M) : Stack/Reach ratio – 1.49 chainstay 450mm – wheelbase 1,048mm – (steering) headtube angle 71 deg – trail 65mm – Fork offset/rake 52mm. Bottom bracket drop 70mm

Tires and Wheel Sizes (Tire Clearance) :  700x38c / With a max tire clearance 29 x 2″

• One of the most budget friendly options in the list
• Steel frame is rock solid and feels great
• Perfectly comfortable touring bike
• Long chainstays and a slack head-tube angle offer a stable, comfortable, semi-upright riding position, suitable for both touring and commuting.
• Trek’s history of producing the 520 model since 1983 adds to the trust in the brand and model.
• Frame is however a little on the heavier side
• Stock pedals suck (order replacements if you consider this bike)

The Trek 520 stands as a testament to durability and adventure in Trek’s lineup, holding the title of their longest-running model. This true touring bike is designed for those who yearn for long journeys, offering a perfect blend of stability and comfort through its touring-specific geometry.

With a sturdy steel frame paired with an aluminum fork, the Trek 520 balances strength with practicality, weighing in at a manageable 31.4 lbs / 14.2 kg. It’s equipped with both front and rear racks, ready to handle all the gear you might need for your adventures, making it an ideal choice for the avid tourer.

Renowned for its solid build and reliable performance, the Trek 520 has been field-tested and established as an industry standard. It’s a bike that’s not just ready for your next touring adventure but is also built to last, promising at least a decade of enjoyable riding experiences.

However, it’s important to note that this bike demands regular maintenance to remain in peak condition, particularly in keeping the drivetrain clean to avoid gear hopping. But this small trade-off is worth the exceptional experience it offers, especially considering its versatile gearing range that makes conquering hills feel effortless.

For those looking for even more versatility, the 520 Grand is also an option to consider. Excelling in bikepacking, trail riding, and handling a mix of gravel and pavement, it expands the horizons of where the Trek 520 can take you.

(A staple dirt tourer, just like its predecessor Long Haul Trucker)

Price: $ 1,749 USD or $2,600 AUD

Weight :  15.2 kg (33.5 lbs)

Frame/Fork Material : Frame – Surly Long Haul Trucker, 100% Surly 4130 CroMoly steel. Fork –  Surly Long Haul Trucker, 4130 CroMoly, lugged and brazed

Groupset & Drivetrain :  3 x 9 Alivio, Sora drivetrain. Shimano Alivio 48x36x26t crankset and Shimano Alivio, 11-34t, 9 speed cassette.

Gear Ratios :  19.42″ to 111.40″ (0.76 to 4.36 ratio)

Geometry (M) : Stack/Reach 1.58 ratio – chainstay 450mm – wheelbase 1,076mm – (steering) headtube angle 71 deg – trail 57mm – Fork offset/rake 45mm. Bottom bracket drop 50mm

Tires and Wheel Sizes (Tire Clearance) : 26″ x 46mm With a max tire clearance for 26” x 2.1” tires with or without fenders, or 700c x 47mm with or without fenders

• The steel frame is robust
• 20-30mm taller frames and a 30mm taller handlebar, offer a more comfortable riding position.
• 10 frame sizes, catering to a wide range of rider heights
• Has the heritage of the LHT
• Toe overlap issues
• Not ideal for singletrack or technical trails due to its long wheelbase and less agile handling. (If you want to go off-road)
• No longer has the Shimano 3X10 bar-end shifters
• Smaller frame sizes have an increased standover
• The reduced chainstay length effects its capability as a touring bike
• It now has 32 spokes instead of 36
• No kickstand frame mounts
• A downgrade in drivetrain to Shimano Alivio from the previous Shimano XT
• The price has also increased

The Surly Disc Trucker, known for its reliability and no-nonsense approach, is a drop-bar steel touring bike. A staple among touring enthusiasts, this bike is recognized for its ability to handle long, loaded rides comfortably, though it doesn’t necessarily stand out in terms of its specifications.

Having personally ridden the Long Haul Trucker for thousands of kilometers, I can attest to its suitability as an excellent introduction to bicycle touring.

The 2021 model of the Disc Trucker however, sees some significant updates, including a taller frame and handlebar, additional tyre clearance, user-friendly STI shifters, and more mounting points, along with internal fork dynamo wiring and TRP Spyre brakes.

However, it loses some features like the Shimano 3X10 gearing and bar-end shifters. The Disc Trucker is well-suited for road travel and light off-road conditions but may not be the best choice for more technical or agile riding needs.

(Best Value for Money Touring Bike You Can Buy!)

Price: £1,299.99 / $1,650 USD or $2,463 AUD

Weight :  17.1 kg or 37.7 lbs

Frame/Fork Material : triple-butted aluminium

Groupset & Drivetrain :  Shimano XT Trekking groupset – 26-36-48 triple chainring – (11-36) cassette

Gear Ratios :  18″ to 80″ (0.64 to 2.91 ratio)

Geometry (M) : Stack/Reach ratio – 1.47 chainstay 458 mm – wheelbase 1,096mm – (steering) headtube angle 71.5 deg – Bottom bracket drop 54 mm

Tires and Wheel Sizes (Tire Clearance) :  28 x 1.75″ tires / With a max tire clearance up to 29 x 2.4” (estimated)

• Can carry up to 170 kg
• 33 mounting points for various accessories and luggage
• Equipped with Shimano Deore XT and a Brooks B17 saddle (High quality components.)
• Integrated Dynamo Hub
• Lifetime Warranty on frame, suspension, stem, handlebars, and rack.
• Insane value – priced competitively with comprehensive features.
• Heavier at 17kg, which may affect maneuverability and speed.
• Basic Pedals and Grips may need upgrading
• USB charger effective only at higher speeds
• Potential issues with exposed wiring for lights
• Despite having a mount, a kickstand is not included
• Steering lock mechanism to prevent over-rotation may take getting used to

The Riverside Touring 900, by Decathlon, is a highly robust and versatile touring bicycle ideal for multi-day trips, commuting, and carrying heavy loads. A bombproof touring bike, along with the bikepacking friendly Touring 920. These bikes are ready for adventure and for unbeatable value. 

The 900’s key features include a strong and comfortable frame capable of carrying up to 170kg, internal cable routing, 33 mounting points for customization, and reliable Shimano Deore XT components. The bike is equipped with a Brooks B17 Imperial saddle, known for its comfort and durability, and TRP Spyke dual-piston mechanical disc brakes for reliable stopping power.

It also features a USB cycle-to-charge socket integrated into the stem for charging devices on the go, and robust aluminum mudguards. Before embarking on a major trip, it’s advisable to test the bike’s charger to ensure it meets your requirements. Consider whether you’ll need an extra power bank, as the charger requires extensive cycling to power your devices effectively. While it functions, its capacity is just sufficient for navigation purposes with the screen active.

However, it has a heavier frame at around 17kg. But if you don’t tour for speed that little extra weight shouldn’t bother you. And it comes with basic pedals and grips that might need upgrading for better comfort. But for the amount of touring bike you get you can’t beat it for value!

(Legendary Australian Touring / Expedition Bike)

Price: $6,600.00 AUD or $4,420 USD

Weight :  16.8kg (Estimated)

Frame/Fork Material : Full Steel Build – Double butted Cr-Mo touring frame and 1-1/8″ full Cr-Mo, threadless, mudguard, lowrider and electric cable mounts, through axle, steering stabiliser hook.

Groupset & Drivetrain :  Andel crankset – BCD 130mm, 5 arm, 165/170/175mm, with FSA QR-1 self-extracting crank bolts. With Rohloff speedhub 500/14, 36H, CC DB, black, external transfer box, OEM axle plate, quick release

Gear Ratios :  extra low gear ratios down to 15.9″ to 83.6″ with options in between or traditional 20.0″ to 105.2″

Geometry (M) : Chainstay 464 mm – wheelbase 1,087mm – (steering) headtube angle 71 deg – trail 67 mm – Bottom bracket drop 75 mm

Tires and Wheel Sizes:  Options for: 700C×40 (for road), 27.5 × 2.00 (for tracks), 27.5 × 2.80″ (all-rounders).

• Designed for minimal upkeep, ideal for long tours.
• Made from 4130 chromoly steel, offering stiffness and resilience, especially suitable for touring
• Superior mudguards, ergonomic handlebars, and intelligent dynamo light.
• Integrated rack and rear disc caliper, reducing the need for spacers and long bolts
• Comprehensive Tool and Spare Kit: Enhances self-sufficiency on long trips.
• One of the heavier touring bikes in this list
• Not the most beginner friendly bike – The comprehensive nature of the bike might be overwhelming for new cyclists.

The Vivente World Randonneur (VWR), particularly The Gibb model, stands as a pinnacle of touring and transportation bicycles in Australia. This bike, admired for its meticulous refinements over the years, now incorporates a series of desirable upgrades, culminating in a nearly perfect touring experience.

At its heart lies the Rohloff SpeedHub 500, a 14-speed hub gear known for its unparalleled range and reliability. While this hub adds to the cost and weight of the bike, its maintenance-free nature and durability make it a worthwhile investment for serious riders.

The bike’s 4130 chromoly steel frame ensures resilience and comfort, making it ideal for long rides. Its geometry is finely tuned for stability and ease of handling, enhancing the overall comfort during extended touring. The bike is also notable for its comprehensive tool and spare kit, ensuring riders are well-equipped for any situation.

The hydraulic disc brakes provide consistent stopping power, a crucial feature for safety and reliability. The dynamo-powered USB outlet is a thoughtful addition, allowing riders to charge devices on the go. While the bike may be somewhat daunting for beginners due to its complexity and the initial friction in new gears, its overall design is geared towards low maintenance and high performance.

(Entry Level Traditional Steel Touring Bike Design)

Price: USD $2,049 (About $3,211 AUD)

Weight :  12.25 kg (27 lbs)

Frame/Fork Material : Full Steel Build – Marrakesh Triple Butted CroMoly – BB Standard: BSA, 68mm, Threaded – Tire Clearance: 50c – Color: Gold

Groupset & Drivetrain :  Shimano Alivio – 11–36t, 9-speed cassette and 48/36/26t crank

Gear Ratios :  20″ to 121″ (0.72 to 4.36 ratio)

Geometry (55 cm) : Stack/Reach ratio – 1.55 chainstay 455 mm – wheelbase 1,055 mm – (steering) headtube angle 70.8 deg – trail 64 mm – Fork offset/rake 55 mm. Bottom bracket drop 77 mm

Tires and Wheel Sizes (Tire Clearance) :  Teravail Rampart 700c x 42 mm / With a max tire clearance 700c x 40mm tires with fenders and 29 x 2.0″ or Apparently you can run up to 27.5 x 2.6″ tires

• More then enough eyelets for storing gear
• Rohloff hub compatible drop out
• Very comfortable ride
• Traditional touring bikes design and aesthetics – bar-end shifters for example
• It comes with 42 mm tires but the minimum tire for fenders is 40 mm!
• Can only use the Salsa rear pannier rack due to how it attaches to the dropouts.
• The rear drop out swingplate is non-standard. A potential problem if it is damaged with limited access for parts
• The 2020 models in particular has paint chipping issues – even though it looks great
• Smaller frames may have limited space inside the frame for bikepacking frame bags and room for drink bottles
• Heel-striking is a potential issue on smaller frames

Made from a burly steel but heavy frame (not as heavy as some other bikes in this list) the Marrakesh offers a rock solid, stable and comfortable ride as you would expect in a touring bike.

With a dual capability for both off-road and on-road adventures. This bike is versatile enough for touring, commuting, or leisure riding, offering a comfortable experience across various terrains.

Despite its somewhat hefty build, the Marrakesh doesn’t compromise on maneuverability or performance. It comes equipped with front and rear racks, although fitting mudguards requires a slight reduction in tire width from the stock 42 mm tires to a maximum of 40mm. 

The bike’s solid construction is further complemented by a reliable Shimano Alivio groupset, Microshift bar-end traditional touring bike shifters, and TRP Spyre-C disc brakes. Additionally, its wheels and tires are tubeless-ready, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

However, a notable concern for potential owners, particularly those with smaller frame sizes, is the chainstay design. The positioning of the rack is forward by about 20-30mm compared to other models, which impacts the bike’s handling, making it more akin to a shorter gravel bike when loaded.

This setup also raises the possibility of heel strike, a drawback that could affect the bike’s overall appeal as a touring option.

(The Most Budget Friendly Option In This List)

Price From: $1,590 + USD

Weight :  15.6 kg (34.40 lbs)

Groupset & Drivetrain :  Shimano Tiagra

Geometry (M) : Stack/Reach ratio – 1.52 chainstay 455 mm – wheelbase 1,083mm – (steering) headtube angle 71 deg – trail 56 mm – Fork offset/rake 55 mm. Bottom bracket drop 75 mm

Tire Clearance:  700x35mm, with fenders, but the frame can accomodate 700x38mm without.

• 36 spoke wheels – strong for bicycle touring
• High quality Busch und Müller lights
• Well-balanced geometry ensures a stable yet responsive ride.
• Budget friendly option
• The Sunnywheel fenders might be a little narrow
• Limited tire clearance only up to 38 mm
• At 15.6kg, it might be considered heavy for some riders
• Not as capable off-road thanks to limited tire clearance

The UK-designed Genesis Tour de Fer 30, drawing inspiration from its sibling, the popular Croix de Fer, stands out as a remarkable blend of innovation and tradition in the world of touring bikes. This model is unique for its slightly longer build than most other touring bikes, providing an added level of stability and comfort for those extensive journeys.

But is it really a “Do-It-All Tourer?” With limited tire clearance, therefore limited off road capabilities it is better suited to traditional road only touring.

At the heart of the Tour de Fer 30 is the reliable Reynolds 725 steel frame, noted for its strength and relative lightness, making it a dependable companion for long-distance travels. The bike’s design is complemented by a chromoly steel fork with quick-release dropouts, further enhancing its durability and resilience.

A standout feature of this touring bike is its high-quality Busch und Müller lighting system, powered by a dynamo hub. These lights not only offer superior illumination for safer riding but also add a touch of sophistication to the bike’s overall design.

The shifting and drivetrain responsibilities are adeptly handled by Shimano’s Tiagra groupset, which includes a triple chainset offering a wide range of gears, ideal for tackling diverse terrains and steep inclines. The 10-speed cassette ensures low-maintenance, consistent performance, a crucial factor for long tours.

In terms of braking, the Tour de Fer 30 is equipped with TRP’s Spyre cable disc brakes, known for their consistent and sufficient stopping power. While they may not be as powerful as hydraulic brakes, their ease of maintenance, especially in remote locations, makes them a practical choice for touring.

The bike rides on robust Sun Ringlé Rhyno Lite rims and is fitted with the legendary Schwalbe Marathon tyres, renowned for their durability and puncture resistance. This combination ensures a smooth and reliable ride across various surfaces.

Finishing touches include Genesis branded components like a 27.2mm seatpost, a flared handlebar for comfortable handling, and a saddle designed for long rides. Practical features such as full-length mudguards, bottle cages, and spacious racks (including a Tubus Tara low-rider front rack and an AtranVelo Tour 365 rear rack) enhance its functionality for touring and commuting alike.

(The Most AFFORDABLE Touring Bike At the Time of Writing!)

Price: 1,699.00 NOW ONLY $1,358.93 USD

Weight :  13.61 kg (30 lbs)

Frame/Fork Material : Full Steel Build – Double-butted chromoly steel and Chromoly steel fork with 15mm thru-axle.

Groupset & Drivetrain :  Shimano Deore, 48/36/26T crank and 10 speed 11-34T cassette.

Gear Ratios :  21″ to 120″

Geometry (M) : Stack/Reach ratio – 1.54 chainstay 455 mm – wheelbase 1,054mm – (steering) headtube angle 70.5 deg

Tires and Wheel Sizes (Tire Clearance) :  Schwalbe Marathon with puncture protection 700 x 38mm / With a max tire clearance up to 50mm

• Reliable Shimano Deore and Deore LX parts for the drivetrain
• Double-butted chromoly steel frame provides stability and a smooth ride
• Can support up to 300 lbs. including rider and gear (140 kg)
• Comes with spare spokes
• Getting on the heavier side but mid range weight compared to other bikes in this list.
• Tight clearance for fenders
• You could question the practicality of hydraulic disc brakes for touring bikes

The Co-op Cycles ADV 1.1 emerges as a robust and reliable touring bike, well-suited for long-distance journeys and heavy-duty touring. A very suitable bike for tackling steep inclines with heavy loads, which is what you want in a touring bike.

Its double-butted chromoly steel frame ensures a stable and comfortable ride, even under heavy loads, and the bike can support up to 300 lbs. The combination of a Shimano Deore crankset and Deore LX rear derailleur, along with the Tektro HY/RD hydraulic disc brakes, underscores its focus on durability and performance.

The bike is particularly noted for its excellent performance on long tours, with users reporting successful journeys over thousands of kilometers. It is equipped with puncture-resistant Schwalbe Marathon tires and comes with custom front and rear racks for carrying essential gear. An ultra-low gear option is also available, making it easier to navigate steep terrains.

However, some riders have noted the bike’s weight as a potential drawback, particularly when compared to lighter adventure options. There are some concerns about the practicality and maintenance of the hydraulic disc brakes for touring purposes.

Comparing These Bikes

Below, I’ve compiled a table featuring key information for each bike, making it easier for you to compare and decide which one best suits your needs. I hope this helps!

Why You Should Trust Cycle Travel Overload’s Advice

Hey I’m Codey Orgill and have been exploring this world by bicycle for over 8 years now! I have a long history with touring bikes, first being introduced to the world of bicycle travel with a classic Novara Randonee touring bike, then a Surly Long Haul Trucker and I now ride the Kona Sutra Touring Bike .

I have ridden my bikes across 10+ countries so far and a lot of trips where I live here in Australia! Lover of bikes and so passionate about researching, riding, and writing 🙂 about adventure-focused bicycles. That’s why I started this blog ! Have helped over 1 million people find, compare, and decide on their dream adventure bike! Nothing means more to me than getting more people out into the world on two wheels!

What Makes A Good Touring Bike? Criteria For Choosing These Bikes

First I wanted to focus on mostly more traditional touring bikes in this list. As I plan to put together a updated guide for off-road touring bikes better suited for bikepacking type adventures.

Comfortable and Stable Geometry & Design: A top priority was the bike’s geometry. We looked for models with a long wheelbase, (average touring bike wheelbase: 1050 to 1070mm) and chainstay to ensure sufficient heel clearance during pedaling, (average touring bike chainstay: 445 to 470mm) and to accommodate rear panniers. The ideal geometry also contributes to a stable center of gravity, enhancing balance and creating a smoother ride. Additionally, a front center of (around 600 millimeters) is ideal for toe clearance and compatibility with front panniers, a typical setup for world-spanning adventures. For predictability and more stable steering a 60 to 70 mm trail is ideal!

Upright Riding Position : An upright riding position is crucial for comfort during long tours. We sought a stack-to-reach ratio of about 1.5 or higher to avoid a hunched-over posture, reducing back strain over extended periods.

Gear Ratio : The gear range was another vital factor. We looked for bikes with a broad spectrum of gears, especially low-end ratios for climbing with a heavy setup. Ideal bikes offer gearing as low as 18 inches for steep ascents and up to 120 inches for comfortable descents, accommodating various touring conditions. However if you are doing lighter touring and commuting, typically up to a 25 inch low gear is a pass, but not for fully load adventures.

Wheels and Components : Quality components are non-negotiable for durability and performance. We ensured that each bike had robust components unlikely to fail during extended tours. Wheel strength is vital, so we preferred bikes with a high spoke count, ideally 36 spokes to support the weight of a fully loaded touring setup. But some of the lighter touring bikes or not so good build quality bikes may have 32 spokes which isn’t ideal.

Weight Considerations : While weight is a factor, it’s less critical in touring bikes. Most selected bikes weigh around 13 to 15 kilograms or heavier, standard for this category. With added gear, this weight increases significantly, but our focus was more on reliability than lightness.

Other Considerations: The bike’s load capacity is a pivotal feature, with higher capacities being more advantageous. Ideally, a robust touring bike should be able to support a total weight ranging from 130 to 180 kg. Additionally, factors like frame stiffness and the configuration of the kickstand are also important considerations for these types of bikes.

What Are Touring Bikes? The Different Types of Touring Bikes

Touring bikes can be broadly categorised into four distinct types, each tailored to different touring needs and preferences. While there are even more nuances within these categories, this classification provides a solid foundation for understanding the diverse range of touring bikes available in the market.

Traditional or Classic Touring Bikes

Traditional or classic touring bikes are built to be tough and withstand the rigors of long, continuous cycling over days, months, or even years. Unlike road bikes, these are designed with a focus on durability and stability. Typically made from steel, these bikes feature an upright geometry, longer chainstays, and are often equipped with fenders and a rear rack for panniers. The wheels are usually 700c with a high spoke count (32 or 36-hole) to endure the demands of bike touring. While classic touring bikes traditionally had rim brakes, mechanical disc brakes are becoming more common in this category. Both flat and drop bars are seen on these bikes, which often have a vintage look, as their design emphasizes functionality and longevity over aesthetic changes.

When discussing traditional touring bikes, the Novara Randonee instantly springs to mind as the quintessential example. With its bar-end shifters, classic steel frame, and comfortable touring geometry, it embodies everything a touring bike should be. This bike holds a special place in my heart as my first introduction to the world of bicycle travel. I’m eternally grateful to both the bike and Eric, the generous legend who gifted it to me. Thanks, mate!

Expedition Touring Bikes

Expedition touring bikes are designed for epic, long-duration trips, such as around-the-world adventures. Made primarily from steel for robustness and ease of repair, these bikes typically feature 26-inch wheels and rim brakes. The choice of these components is strategic, as they make it easier to repair and replace parts, even in remote corners of the globe. These bikes are built for resilience and are capable of carrying all essentials for extended journeys, making them a top choice for serious long-term touring enthusiasts.

These bikes are quite similar to traditional touring bikes but offer even more adventure focused components and parts as standard like kick stands, Dynamo hubs and light setups, and trekking bars or flat swept back alt bars are often more common on these bikes for that extra comfort in the saddle. The Koga WorldTraveller is a perfect example of this category of bike.

Adventure Touring Bikes

Adventure touring bikes or off-road touring bikes are crafted for rougher terrains, such as loose dirt, single tracks, and off-road wilderness paths, making them ideal for exploring less-traveled roads. These bikes are essentially a blend of road and mountain bikes. They usually come with drop bars and either mechanical or hydraulic disc brakes, offering strong stopping power for diverse conditions. Adventure bikes can accommodate a variety of wheel sizes and have clearance for wider tires. Many models are also equipped to handle dropper posts, adding to their versatility for different types of terrain.

For example, the Tumbleweed Prospector is engineered for supreme reliability and performance in rugged terrains. Its design eschews trendy materials for durability, particularly excelling with the Rohloff SPEEDHUB, an internally geared drivetrain known for its resilience in diverse conditions, from deserts to snowy mountains. Unique features like the Phil Wood eccentric bottom bracket and custom cast dropouts, coupled with a design focused on maximum mud and tire clearance, make the Prospector a top choice for adventurous global expeditions.

Light touring or gravel touring bikes are similar to gravel bikes in that they offer the flexibility for both on-road and off-road use, but with the added functionality of eyelets for attaching racks. They are designed for carrying lighter loads and are more suited for shorter bike tours or bikepacking trips. Generally lighter in weight than traditional touring bikes, they provide a versatile and adaptable solution for cyclists who prefer a mix of on and off-road experiences. These bikes are often interchangeable with gravel bikes, focusing on a balance between lightness, flexibility, and durability.

In this category, the distinction between gravel and touring bikes becomes more nuanced, existing on a spectrum. Some gravel bikes are adeptly equipped for touring and off-road adventures , thanks to their tire clearance, touring-inspired geometry, and build quality. Others, however, are better suited for lightweight touring, with their capabilities leaning more towards smooth roads or light gravel paths due to certain limitations in design and gearing. This diversity means that while some models excel in rugged conditions, others are ideal for less demanding journeys. A good example of a lighter touring bike would be something like the Fuji Touring Disc or the Salsa Journeyer.

How To Choose A Touring Bike

When it comes to choosing the perfect touring bike, understanding your specific needs and priorities is key to narrowing down your options and making an informed buying decision. Every touring bike offers a unique combination of features, and what works for one cyclist might not suit another. By focusing on what is most important for your touring experience, you can filter through the plethora of choices and find a bike that aligns perfectly with your requirements.

1. Prioritize Your Touring Environment : Are you planning to ride mostly on smooth roads, rugged trails, or a combination of both? The terrain you expect to encounter is a primary factor in determining the type of touring bike you need. For instance, if off-road adventures are your main focus, a bike with sturdy tires and a durable frame, like an adventure touring bike, will serve you well. On the other hand, if you’re sticking to paved roads, a traditional touring bike with smoother tires would be more appropriate.

2. Comfort vs. Performance : Long-distance touring demands comfort, especially if you’re spending several hours a day on the bike. Consider bikes with a geometry that offers an upright riding position, reducing strain on your back and shoulders. However, if speed and performance are more important to you, a bike with a more aggressive geometry might be preferable.

3. Load Capacity and Accessories : Assess how much gear you need to carry. If you’re planning a self-supported tour with lots of luggage, look for a bike with a high load capacity, robust racks, and multiple mounting points. Conversely, if you prefer light touring with minimal gear, a bike with fewer rack options but a lighter frame might be better.

4. Maintenance and Durability : If you’re touring in remote areas, consider the ease of repair and maintenance of the bike. Bikes with simpler, more robust components are easier to fix on the road. The bike’s durability also plays a crucial role, especially in challenging conditions.

5. Budget Considerations : Set a realistic budget and stick to it. Higher-priced bikes usually offer better quality and more features, but there are also great mid-range and budget options that can meet your needs effectively.

Panniers for Touring Bikes

Much like the diverse range of touring bikes available, the market is also rich with various styles of panniers to suit different touring needs. Whether you’re setting off on an extensive cross-country adventure or planning a brief weekend escape, selecting the appropriate panniers can greatly elevate your experience. In this article, we delve into the world of panniers, offering insights into robust touring options, streamlined micro bikepacking choices, and minimalist solutions for those who favor a lighter setup.

What About Specific Touring Bike Handlebars and Saddles?

When embarking on bike touring or bikepacking, comfort is paramount, especially considering the main body contact points with your bike. A crucial aspect of this comfort is finding the right handlebars, which can greatly impact your experience over the many miles ahead. This article focuses on what to look for in touring handlebars and presents some of the best options available.

Choosing the right saddle for your bike touring or bikepacking adventure is a decision that can significantly affect your comfort on long rides. In our latest article, we address the essentials of bike saddle comfort and how to select a saddle that reduces discomfort for extended periods in the saddle.

A comfortable bike saddle is crucial, especially when you’re planning to spend days, or even months, pedaling across diverse landscapes. It’s not just about picking any saddle; it’s about finding the one that fits your unique body shape and riding style. We explore the factors that contribute to saddle comfort, from shape and size to materials and design.

Are Touring Bikes Good For Commuting?

Touring bikes are a great option for commuting due to their unique combination of durability, comfort, and carrying capacity.

Designed for long distances and varied terrains, these bikes are robust enough to withstand the daily wear and tear of urban travel, ensuring longevity.

he upright and relaxed geometry of touring bikes offers significant comfort, which is crucial for daily commutes, especially over longer distances.

This design effectively reduces strain on the back, neck, and shoulders. One of the key advantages of touring bikes for commuters is their ability to carry loads. Equipped with racks and multiple mounting points, they are ideal for transporting work essentials, groceries, or other personal items. Want to use a touring bike for commuting?

While touring bikes are versatile and perform well on different surfaces, making them suitable for various commuting routes, they are generally heavier than road bikes.

This might not be ideal for those who need to frequently carry their bike.

Additionally, they might not be as fast as road bikes, which could be a consideration for those with longer commutes seeking speed.

Moreover, the focus on durability and functionality often makes touring bikes more expensive than some basic commuter bikes.

Despite these considerations, touring bikes offer a reliable, comfortable, and practical solution for daily commuting, balancing efficiency and stability, especially when carrying loads.

Other Touring Bike Reads

• The Tips, 67 bike travellers wish they knew earlier – Beginner Bike Touring Advice
• Best Bike Touring and Bikepacking Handlebars – Everything You Need to Know
• Gravel Bike For Touring – 6 Best Gravel Bikes For Touring!
• 12 Best Front Bike Racks For Touring & Bikepacking
• Best Off-Road Adventure Touring Bikes 2024
• Best Flat Bar Touring Bikes & Expedition Bikes
• Best Touring Bike Kickstands & Everything You Need To Know

About The Author

Codey Orgill, a seasoned bicycle adventurer, has been exploring the world on two wheels for over 10 years. Since embarking on his initial cycling journey, Codey Orgill has traversed numerous countries, experiencing a series of epic adventures.

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What’s The Best Touring Bike? (2024 Edition)

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Touring bike buying advice is a popular topic, so I update this post regularly to keep the details current. If you find any out-of-date information, consider leaving a comment to let me know. Thanks!

Choosing a new touring bike can be pretty stressful for a newcomer to cycle touring – especially when you start looking at the price tags. 

So it’s no surprise the most common question I’ve been asked in 18 years of running this blog is some version of the following:

“Help! What’s the best touring bike for my upcoming cycle tour?”

It’s a perfectly understandable question to ask, because there are a lot of options out there – but answering it calls for a bit of context .

Your choice of touring bike should be mainly informed not by online reviews or paid-for content by sponsored bloggers, but by the kind of tour you’re planning, your unique physiology , your riding preferences as a touring cyclist, and – an oft-forgotten factor – what bikes are geographically available to you.

So the “best touring bike” for a young Brit planning a low-budget tour in Europe would be totally different to the “best touring bike” for an experienced American planning a once-in-a-lifetime, multi-year adventure from Prudhoe Bay to Tierra del Fuego.

Similarly, the best bike for a rider measuring 5 feet (152cm) tall, who also has reduced neck mobility, would be different to the best bike for a fitness enthusiast trying to win a bikepacking race like the Tour Divide.

And if you ask fellow cycle tourers on forums like Reddit what they think is the best touring bike, the answers will inevitably reflect what’s worked best for them , not what’ll work best for you.

(Yes, I am a fellow cycle tourer, but I’m not just going to tell you what touring bike I ride, any more than I’m going to tell you what colour pants I’m wearing!)

Simply put, there are diverse answers to the question of what is the “best touring bike”.

Luckily, touring bicycles are a mature product with decades of heritage. And despite the the confusion created by the rise of bikepacking as an industry buzz-word , there are still plenty of good commercial touring bikes on the market today. These are bikes that have been designed to meet the needs of a broad range of touring cyclists, and are readily available through local bike shops and dealership networks around the world.

In this post, we’re going to take a look at the best of them. The list below showcases some of the most time-proven touring bikes being made and sold in 2024, across the full spectrum of budgets, as well as a few lesser-known models to demonstrate what touring bikes for riders with specialist requirements might look like.

Perhaps you’ll find your perfect touring bike here. Perhaps you’ll realise you’re looking for something else altogether. Or perhaps you’ll find something more interesting to read among everything else I’ve written about cycle touring and bikepacking.

This is not an exhaustive list of every single touring bike on the market.

I’m a veteran bicycle traveller with 18 years of real-world experience, and my goal is to help you make the right choice , not to churn out AI-written spam to get on the front page of Google and generate affiliate commission.

My hope is to give you a taste of the diversity of touring bikes available today, rather than overwhelming you with unexplained jargon and things to click on. The journey of buying a new touring bike is not a short one. Reading this post will just be the beginning!

The list of touring bikes below is arranged in ascending price order. I’ve mentioned the worldwide availability of each bike, roughly speaking, and the manufacturer-suggested retail price (MSRP, aka: RRP or list price) in £/€/$ as applicable.

Cube Touring

Decathlon riverside touring 520, fuji touring ltd/disc ltd, ridgeback expedition, ridgeback panorama, surly disc trucker, oxford bike works expedition.

• More rider-recommended touring bikes
• Bonus: The secret to actually choosing the right touring bike

(Many good touring bikes previously on this list have been discontinued, including the Adventure Flat White, Dawes Galaxy, Revolution Country Traveller, and Surly Long Haul Trucker, to name just a few. That’s life!)

Summary: Feature-rich flat-bar trekking bike Availability: Worldwide List Price: £800 / €730 / US$760 / CA$1,090

The entry-level touring bike from the major German bike maker Cube is the affordable and simply-named Cube Touring . The basic model in this extensive range is currently one of the cheapest off-the-peg touring bikes on the market, and is widely distributed across Europe and North America.

If you’re used to the appearance of British or American designed tourers, you’ll notice some big differences, such as the flat handlebars and adjustable stem, the resulting upright riding posture, and the front suspension fork, as well as other details like a kickstand, a hub dynamo, and LED lights as standard. These are all fairly typical features of touring bikes from German and Dutch makers, where utility and comfort takes precedence.

To cater for a diverse customer base, the Cube Touring range comes in several frame variations and sizes, including the classic diamond frame (5 sizes), women’s specific with a sloping top-tube (3 sizes) and a step-through frame for riders with impaired mobility (3 sizes), all in a choice of two colour schemes.

The ‘semi-integrated’ rear rack, which is held in position by the mudguard/fender, is unorthodox, and the seat stays and front fork don’t have standard mounting points, complicating any modifications to the bike’s luggage-carrying capabilities. Riders looking for an entry-level touring bike that can be upgraded in the future may also decide to pass on the Cube Touring for these reasons.

The rest of the specification is impressive at this price. The entry-level Shimano V‑brakes and drivetrain components are sensible. As with any bike, you’ll want to fit your own preferred saddle, but the inclusion of ergonomic grips, lights, fenders and a kick-stand makes the Touring more or less ready to hit the road right out of the box.

All that said, the bike’s strongest selling point is the price. The recent disappearance of several popular entry-level touring bikes has left a gap at this end of the market – one that the Cube Touring happily fills.

• Check out the full Cube Touring range on the Cube website .
• Find your local dealer in Cube’s online directories of stockists in the UK and Europe , the USA , and Canada .
• Don’t buy this bike online. Support your local bike shop ( UK list )!

Summary: Good value forward-thinking light tourer Availability: UK, Europe, Australia List Price: £800 / €800 / AUD1,800

There’s no denying the success of Decathlon ’s no-frills approach to designing, manufacturing and selling sports and outdoor gear. The Riverside Touring is the entry-level model in Decathlon’s new foray into touring bikes, and for many riders will be a welcome addition to the sparse options at this lower-budget end of the market.

The Riverside Touring 520 is based on an aluminium frame, whose geometry sits somewhere between the old-school rigid mountain bike and today’s trendy gravel/hybrid rides. The frameset sports a big range of mounting points for more or less any luggage configuration you might imagine, including a front lowrider or fork cages, a traditional rear carrier rack should the semi-integrated stock rack not be to your tastes, and no less than five bottle cages.

The riding position of the Riverside Touring leans towards relaxed and upright, with the sloping top-tube helping with mounting and dismounting, and flat bars with so-called ergonomic grips and bar-ends atop a stack of head-tube spacers, all pointing to a bike designed with the casual or newcomer rider in mind. Comfortably wide 1.75″ tyres will be equally content on asphalt and gravel at the 700C (28″) wheel diameter.

Looking at component choice, Decathlon have specified a 1×11 drivetrain (ie: a single front chainring driving an 11-sprocket rear cassette); unusual on a tourer where riders tend to benefit from a wide and fine-grained range of gear ratios. The hydraulic disc brakes are also an unorthodox choice for a touring bike. 

Both will have traditionalists up in arms, citing increased chain wear rates, a reduced choice of gear ratios, and the near-impossibility of repairing hydraulics on the roadside. But a quick scan of the many customer reviews of this bike suggest that these concerns are academic. In the regions of the world this bike is likely to be used, spares and repairs for this bike will be abundant. And if you want to take it further afield, you can always fit cable disc brakes and/or a regular drivetrain.

Certainly one of this bike’s great strengths is how widely available it is for test-riding, Decathlon having hundreds of locations across the UK, Europe, Australia, and increasingly further afield, including Turkey, India, China, and the list goes on . Indeed, I can easily imagine a first-time tourer with a reasonable gear budget walking out of the store with not just the bike but a full set of luggage and maybe some camping gear too.

There are only four frame size options, however. Taken together with the wheel size, this may prevent those with short body lengths from finding a good match with the Riverside Touring 520.

In summary, while Decathlon have leaned pretty far into the crossover between classic touring and the gravel bike trend, there’s little to find fault with at this price – and there’s considerably more scope for upgrades here than other entry-level touring bikes in this list.

• Buy the Riverside Touring 520 in the UK from Decathlon .
• The bike is also available from Decathlon branches across Europe , Australia , and beyond .

Summary: Sporty steel-framed light road tourers Availability: UK/Europe/USA List Price: €1,000/1,500

Japanese manufacturer Fuji’s entry-level touring bikes are the Fuji Touring LTD and Disc LTD . The cheaper Touring LTD is the flat-bar model with rim brakes, while the Touring Disc LTD features drop bars and cable-actuated disc brakes with integrated shifter/brake levers. 

They’re both built on a Reynolds 520 cromoly steel frameset, with classic touring geometry and all the usual mounting points. Both bikes feature 36-spoke 700C wheels on Shimano hubs, and mudguards/fenders and a reasonably solid rear rack as standard, but no front rack or lowrider (you can of course add one later).

The Touring LTD has a Shimano Alivio V‑brakes and a 3×9‑speed chainset from the midrange of Shimano’s mountain-bike series of components, while the Touring Disc LTD has a 3×9‑speed Shimano Sora chainset with slightly higher gear ratios, making it more oriented towards lighter-weight road rides, as well as the ubiquitous TRP Spyre cable-actuated disc brakes found on so many touring bikes. For the extra money, the Disc LTD has a generator (dynamo) hub built into the front wheel which is already hooked up to the integrated front headlight – a nice touch.

The Fuji Touring LTD and Disc LTD come in no fewer than seven frame sizes, allowing precise fitting and fewer compromises for short or tall riders.

In summary, both models represent high ambitions in a good-value package aimed at a rider who wants a classic, no-fuss steel-framed touring bike, with the Disc being the sportier and more road-oriented of the two.

• Find a list of global dealers on the official Fuji website .

Summary: Beefy yet comfortable long-haul all-rounder Availability: UK List Price: £1,350

Launched in 2014, tweaked in the years since and now thoroughly tested on longer trips, the Ridgeback Expedition  is a strong contender for best value expedition touring bike on the market.

The current model shares design principles with many more expensive touring bikes designed specifically for worldwide expeditions beyond the developed world: wide-range 3×9‑speed mountain bike gearing, chunky 26-inch wheels, and a comfortable upright riding position. Unusually for a British tourer, it comes with flat bars and bar-end grips for a variety of hand positions. Cable disc brakes are now fitted as standard (the first incarnation had drop bars and V‑brakes).

The Ridgeback-branded integrated grips and bar-ends are modelled on the very popular but expensive Ergon range. The latest version of the Ridgeback Expedition also sees a brazed-on kickstand mounting plate added to the non-drive-side chainstay (though not an actual kickstand).

In many ways, as well as being excellent value for money, the Ridgeback Expedition is one of the most full-featured off-the-peg bikes in this list for extremely demanding trips where comfort and durability over time are paramount. Upgrade the rear rack, add a front lowrider and your favourite saddle, and you’ll be ready for the most remote of the planet’s backroads.

• Read my full review of the legacy 2014 Ridgeback Expedition here , and check the comments for feedback from long-haul riders.
• Like the rest of Ridgeback’s range, the Expedition should be available from any authorised Ridgeback dealer .

Summary: Classic British fully loaded drop-bar tourer Availability: UK List Price: £1,600

The Ridgeback Panorama  is a British-designed, Reynolds 725 cromoly-framed, disc brake-equipped, classic touring bike with a durable selection of 3×9sp drivetrain components from both road- and mountain-biking ranges. 

Its road-oriented frameset is prime for being built up into a fully-loaded, long-haul, asphalt touring machine. Both a front lowrider and a rear rack are fitted as standard – Tubus lookalikes, not the genuine articles, but still a welcome addition for fully-loaded riders who are just getting started.

Potential weak points on the Panorama include the integrated shifters/brake levers, which break away from the principle of separating possible points of failure (although you could theoretically swap them out for bar-end or even downtube shifters). The wheelset components are also nothing to write home about; get the spokes re-tensioned before taking this bike on a long-haul tour.

In spite of these question marks, the Panorama has been around for a long time and is very much tried and tested:  read Tim & Laura’s detailed guest review of the Panorama after a 6,000-mile road test , after which they completed their round-the-world trip on the same bikes.

• The Ridgeback Panorama is available from these authorised UK dealers .

Summary: Customisable road/gravel adventure bike Availability: Worldwide List Price: £1,600 / US$2,050 / CA$2,800

Back in 2012, when the jury was still out on disc brakes as a reliable choice for long-distance touring, Surly produced a disc-specific version of their legendary Long Haul Trucker touring bike, cunningly naming it the Disc Trucker . It has since evolved into one of the most versatile and tried-and-tested touring/adventure bikes on the planet.

The Disc Trucker platform had a major update in 2020, about which more detail on the Surly blog. Wheel diameter now complements frame size, ie: bigger wheels suit taller riders and the vice-versa, for a total of eleven frame/wheel size combinations. If, having tried all the Disc Truckers for size, you still can’t find a good fit, you should probably visit a bespoke framebuilder.

The frame geometry is tight and nimble, with integrated gear/brake levers adding to the sporty vibe. This lack of mechanical separation won’t please everyone, but will certainly please riders looking for a performance boost over the uncompromising solidity often seen in the expedition bike niche.

Similarly to the Kona Sutra (see below), the latest Disc Trucker has bolt-through axles, clearance for fatter tyres, and versatility improvements such as multiple fork mounts for fenders, cages or lowriders, to match the kind of wilder, mixed-terrain rides for which the Disc Trucker is increasingly used.

As ever with Surly, racks and mudguards remain excluded, the intention being for you to fit your own according to your needs.

The garish fluoro-yellow paint option of the current Disc Trucker won’t be for everyone, but Surly tell us that it’s also available in hi-viz black.

• Click here to read my full review of the legacy 2014 Disc Trucker .
• To find a place to test-ride one, start with Surly’s global dealer locator .

Summary: Adaptable, performance-oriented road/gravel tourer Availability: Worldwide List Price: $2,100 / £1,900

Canada-based bike manufacturer Kona have long inhabited the left-of-centre in cycling. The Sutra range, too, is progressively-minded, being one of the first mainstream touring bikes to switch to disc brakes back in the early 2010s.

Since then, Kona have adopted the stiffer and stronger bolt-through axle standard (another first amongst bikes in this list), and tightened up the frame geometry to produce a nimble and sporty cyclocross-inspired steel frameset which remains a touring bike at its core.

In 2022, Kona diversified the platform into several models, including the LTD and SE. The standard Sutra went in a more lightweight direction than in previous years, switching to a road drivetrain and cable-actuated hydraulic disc brakes. Today, this performance-oriented version of the Sutra remains Kona’s ‘modern take on the classic touring bike’ (in their own words), with a Shimano GRX 2×10-speed road-bike gearing, drop bars with integrated shifter/brake levers, mixed-terrain Schwalbe Marathon Mondial tyres, and a Brooks B17 saddle and Brooks bar-tape as standard. This all points to the blend of on-road and off-road use increasingly preferred by riders going on shorter, wilder adventures.

The 2024 Sutra’s luggage-carrying capabilities are diverse and adaptable. For those wanting to use the bike as a fully-loaded world tourer, standard rack mounts are provided on the seatstays and rear dropouts, suitable for fitting any standard pannier rack (perhaps a Tubus Cargo or Logo to match the Tara front low-rider already fitted). For those wanting to stay nimble, frame and fork mounts exist for more or less any combination of bolt-on cages and harnesses.

The Kona Sutra comes in six fine-grained frame sizes. This year’s paint colour is Satin Midnight with bronze gloss decals, in case you were wondering.

• I’ve been riding a Kona Sutra myself since 2012 and I love it.  Read my original long-term review of the legacy model here .
• The Kona website has a handy  list of worldwide dealers so you can find a place to test-ride the Sutra.

Summary: Bespoke, round-the-world expedition bike Availability: UK & Worldwide List Price: from £2,789

Originally a one-off “ultimate expedition bike” built to my exact specification, Oxford Bike Works have been refining and custom-building bespoke Expedition s to order since 2015 from their workshop in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, England. Many have now circled the globe. It’s not cheap, but you get what you pay for.

As standard, each bike features a hand-built Reynolds 525 cromoly steel frame, a choice of 26″ or 700C hand-built wheels, top-end Tubus racks, rim or disc brake options, Microshift thumbshifters, and tons of other expedition-specific touches.

From a baseline specification, each bike is custom-built to the rider’s exact needs and preferences after an in-person consultation and fitting session at their workshop. While most of their customers are from the UK, they will also ship finished bikes elsewhere in the world in special cases.

Oxford Bike Works have now moved all frame production to the UK, both minimising their carbon footprint and allowing even more individual tailoring – especially attractive for riders with diverse physiologies who may find that the commercial bikes in this list don’t cater well for their needs.

• Check out the full specifications of the Oxford Bike Works Expedition .
• Read my 10,000-word epic, How To Build The Ultimate Round-The-World Expedition Touring Bike (With Pictures) , which details every design decision that went into this bike.
• Don’t buy this bike online (you can’t anyway). Support your local bike shop ( UK list )!

Yet More Rider-Recommended Touring Bikes

This is not an exhaustive list, because if it was we’d be here all day. But the following bikes have also been recommended by readers of this blog over the years since I first published this post. All have also proven themselves capable touring bikes over time and miles:

• Bombtrack Arise Tour (Germany & Worldwide)
• Cinelli HoBootleg (Italy & Worldwide)
• Fahrradmanufaktur TX-800 (Germany)
• Genesis Tour De Fer (UK)
• KHS TR 101 (USA)
• Temple Cycles Adventure Disc 3
• Trek 520 Disc (USA & Worldwide)
• Vivente World Randonneur (Australia)

…and you’ll find even more options in my massive list of heavy-duty expedition touring bikes available worldwide .

Remember: don’t buy a touring bike online. Support your local bike shop ( UK list ) and have your bike chosen, fitted and customised by an expert whose job depends on getting it just right, just for you!

Bonus : The Secret To Actually Choosing The Right Touring Bike

Finally, I’m going to tell you a secret. 

It’s something other cycle touring bloggers won’t tell you, because they’d prefer you to click on their affilliate links, buy a bike online, and earn them commission.

If you’re having trouble choosing between the touring bikes listed above, the reason is probably because – on paper – they are basically all the same .

They all cost several hundred pounds/dollars/euros. Most of them have steel touring-specific frames, wide gearing, relaxed riding positions, a pannier rack and extra mounts, and drivetrains from the middle of Shimano’s mountain-bike or road-bike ranges. They’re all built primarily for paved roads, but could handle a dirt track or gravel road if need be. They all have two wheels, handlebars, and a saddle.

So how should you choose between them?

The answer is actually very simple.

Visit a touring bike specialist ( UK list ) and take a few bikes for a test ride. 

In doing so, you will discover that the “best touring bike” is the one that’s available in your area and has been set up for you by a touring bike specialist who’s taken the time to understand your needs.

I’ve written a longer post about what to do when you get to this stage of the touring bike buying process, when you’ve got a shortlist of bikes you found online but you’re struggling to choose between them .

And if what I’ve shared with you here still isn’t enough, you can check out even more deep-dive posts about detailed aspects of touring bike choice, including

• three critical questions you should ask at the start of the touring bike buying process ,
• a discussion about what exactly defines a touring bike ,
• my take on what’s really going on when you can’t decide between two bikes ,
• a hugely in-depth article on how to custom-build your own expedition bike ,
• a summary of the debate over disc brakes versus rim brakes ,

and more on my absolutely massive advice and planning page .

Because of all the things you’ll buy for a cycle tour, the bike is the one purchase you really can’t afford to get wrong.

Bogged down in research for your next big bicycle adventure?

I wrote a whole book to help with that. How To Hit The Road is designed to be read at your leisure, making planning a bike tour simple and achievable, no matter the length, duration or budget. Available globally as an ebook or paperback.

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Also relevant to this post:

• How To Custom Build The Ultimate Expedition Touring Bike (With Pictures)
• Surly Disc Trucker Touring Bike: Legacy Review & Detailed Photos
• The Best Cheap (Sub-£1,000) Touring Bikes for Low-Budget Adventures

Comments ( skip to respond )

323 responses to “what’s the best touring bike (2024 edition)”.

Wow. An actual person. Writing. Pen to paper. This is just O so refreshing! Thank you!!! (At 76 years of age-and an English major to boot, circa 1970–I get so tired of the shit being published today. Gawd–I have to guess at what some stupid software program is ATTEMPTING to say!)

You’re welcome. It’s fast becoming my unique selling point!

I can’t find a Kona Sutra SE anywhere, I think they’re discontinued, so if anyone knows where I can find one let me know.

Yes, you’re right – it looks like Kona have simplified things for their 2024 range, and the plain Sutra is now their classic touring bike once again (as it was for years before the SE was introduced). It looks like you’ll need to add your own rear rack for fully loaded touring, but all the frame fittings appear to be there. I’ll update this post shortly with the new model. Thanks for highlighting it!

My wife’s bike is a basic 2000 Kona Hahana. Persuaded the dealer to sell only frame headset seatpin bars. . Built up better wheels etc tubus racks. Tierra del Fuego to Quito plus many more trips. Still going strong 20 years later. My lovely lightweight Univega bought as a frame lasted until 2013 .The frame broke in Albania survived for 60 km held together with nylon cord and cone spanners. Got it welded by local blacksmith. Now have Surly Troll. Ok .….but will have to go back to Square taper bottom bracket. Wife’s old square tapers have done about 30000 miles. Progress or fashion? Charlie and Bethan

All I can do is repeat the old saying that if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!

Anyone got their hands on a Decathalon Riverside Touring 900? Looks like good all round value, but rarely in stock on their website! Would love to hear some real world feedback on this bike…

I second that – real world stories appreciated!

Hi Tom, I recently cycled from Amsterdam to Genoa covering 2500km in total. I flew into Amster with the bike boxed up. I took with me a carbon frame Ridley Kanzo Adventure, it has all the mounting points and relatively relaxed geometry. I road over every type of terrain and the bike didn’t let me down. What I liked with this bike was that I could arrive at my destination in the evening, remove my pannier bags and then have a light weight roadie feeling for exploring whatever region I had made camp in. The bike also had great performance in the hills. Another plus was that when flying and the bike is boxed up, it’s relatively light weight to transport. This meant that at the start and end of my tour getting the bike boxed up from campsite to train to airport was not such a struggle.

Thanks, Kerry. I really like this approach and I’m heartened to hear carbon frames are now being built to take light luggage loads. Thanks again for sharing!

The 30 year old touring bike you already own becomes the second best, as the next one you buy must necessarily be even better.

I’ve recently gone from a Claud Butler Majestic to a Crossmaxx 28″ Pinion. Naturally, I’m absolutely certain, it’s the best touring bike I could possibly have bought (given my criteria and priorities).

First, let me make this perfectly clear, I’m not a seasoned tourer, so much of what I will say is strictly coming from an amateur. I had to look for a new touring bike after my 85 Schwinn Le Tour Luxe got hit by a hit-and-run driver and bent the fork beyond repair, but that bike worked great for my needs.

I could not buy a touring bike from anyone in my city of 350,000 people because no one carries them, the only shop that could have ordered me the Trek 520 but there were some things about the bike I didn’t like, plus it was expensive and with lower end parts, much how I felt the Surly Trucker was, having no choice I had to turn to the internet. in 2019 I compared the Kona Sutra SE, Surly Trucker, Fuji Touring, Masi Giramondo 700c, and one other I can’t recall the name. After much debate, I narrowed it down to either the Kona or the Masi, and ended up with the Masi because of the price of $1,450 at the time, the Kona would have cost me $1,950, but in 2019 they didn’t have some of the stuff they now have on that bike so to make it work I had to make some changes which would have cost me even more; the Masi had the best gear ratios for climbing steep grades with a loaded bike of any bike I saw, and at the time Masi was using 180mm rotors on the front and 160 on the rear and I liked the idea of the bigger rotor on the front, Masi has since reduced the front rotor size to 160.

I did make some changes to the Masi, put on RedShift Shockstop suspension stem and seat post, a change I would have done to any other touring bike I would have bought, now I feel like I’m riding in a Cadillac. The stock Kenda Drumlin tires are junk and heavy, I replaced those with Schwalbe Amotion 38c tires; and the WTB saddle was also junk, so replaced it with a Brooks C17; I ended up not liking the front Tubus Tara rack and replaced it with a Blackburn Bootlegger rack which works better for my needs. 

I think the Masi Giramondo 700c is a very worthy touring bike that a person should at least look at, especially if on the lower budget end of things.

Thanks for this detailed contribution – it’s always good to hear about rider experiences with touring bikes other than those listed here. For other readers’ reference, here’s a link to the California based manufacturer webpage for the Masi Giramondo .

About to begin a year of touring with Breezer Radar Expert. A review of it here https://cycletraveloverload.com/breezer-radar-expert-review-best-budget-gravel-bike/ (not me) I changed the tires to Schwalbe G‑One Overland Evo 28″ 50–622 for this purpose 😉

I’m considering the Priority 600, as my new touring bike and wondering if anyone has any history of using one or opinions of this bike? Thx

For reference, here’s a link to the Priority 600 . I have no personal experience of this bike, but I have published my own detailed thoughts on internal gearing systems such as the Pinion gearbox in the context of cycle touring here (most of the same logic applies to belt drive).

I am a multi day ultra cyclist, so tend to go minimalist. However, I have done big touring rides in the past on my trusty 1993 Cannondale T1000 (my 21st birthday present). I think that a Daws Super Galaxy or Cannondale, still make excellent budget touring bikes. I have been racing and touring on a Niner RTL Steel, which is makes an excellent touring bike, with great touring geomtry and lots of mounts for racks — I use a 1x 46t Shinano GRX groupset with an 11–50 cassette. Gravel bikes can may great touring bikes

Happy you’re reinforcing the mantra that the best touring bike might be the one you already have – even if it’s 30 years old! As for gravel bikes, many of them would certainly make good tourers – just not sure I’d advise anyone to buy a gravel bike for touring if touring-specific bikes are also available.

I think I have been riding the “Best” touring bike for the last 7 years. — https://photos.app.goo.gl/wP8vs7T5hLpNjSBX8

What an absolute beast! Something with that much detailed customisation can hardly fail to serve its rider’s needs best.

Yes HP and Tom, I would like to know about the Marrakesh too!

Interestingly enough, I still can’t find any long-term rider reviews of the Marrakesh. There are, however, plenty of spam reviews which combine manufacturer specifications and stock photos with meaningless filler like “combining Alivio Trekking derailleurs with the Shimano Sora shifters, you won’t have any problem slowing down or torquing up the bike when needed” (yep, actual quote). As a rule, bikes only get on this list when a consensus emerges from the community of people who’ve used them on tour. I just wish I could find more decent trip reports from people riding this one!

Great list, but where’s the Salsa Marrakech?!

I’ve done a few tours on it and can vouch for it’s quality. She’s an absolute beast and rides like a dream! Packed with touring features and has really well worked out geometry.

PS I don’t work for Salsa.

PPS love the blog mate. Did a 6500km+ around Asia a few years ago and your blog was really reaaally useful. ???

Thanks for the comment! The Marrakech was launched in 2015, which in cycle touring circles makes it a newcomer 😉 but you are correct that enough time has gone by now to see real-world results, so I’ll consider it for the next update. Thanks again!

I am looking to buy either Fuji disc touring LTD 2021( priced at 1336 euros) or Trek 520 2021( priced at 1600 euros) . I am really confused , as I don’t understand even though both have very similar specs, why is the trek 520 priced at 250 euros higher? Is trek somehow supposed to be better for some reason that I cannot comprehend or is it price cause of the brand “trek”?

Hi Badri. Prices may differ for many reasons, including import taxes, exchange rates, retailer profit margins, and of course simple pricing decisions by the manufacturer. But my main advice still remains this: if you can’t choose between two bikes on paper, it’s time to visit your local bike shop and take both for a test ride!

Hi I’m from newzealand and touring bikes well decent ones aren’t that easy to come by at the moment because of covid .but I found a Kona sutra the guy had only done about 100 km on it decided he wasn’t going to cycle so sold it and I happen to be at the right place at the right time.great bike to ride and I’m looking forward to my first tour on it in one months time Peter

Unlikely you monitor this anymore, but I’ve been comparing my 80s road bike to modern touring bikes (Croix de Fer and Kona Sutra) and the geometries look the same. Am I missing something or are modern specialist tourers actually very similar to old-school road racers?

Hey Hugh. Actually I make a point of replying to every comment, and I update this post monthly 🙂

Long ago I inherited a hand-built road bike from my grandfather. It was the first bike I’d owned that wasn’t a mountain bike and I was amazed at how fast and light it was, despite being a steel frame. It was a bit on the small side for me, but you’re right that the geometry was quite close to a classic road tourer. The biggest differences you’ll probably find are in the weight (heavier-gauge tubing designed for carrying luggage) and the wheelbase proportional to frame size, although the trend today seems to be for more compact and sporty designs. But the short version is yes, there are certainly a lot of similarities!

Sorry to burst some people’s bubbles.But I want to save you the hassle and frustration. I’ve been touring around north,central and south america,now in Turkey & the Balkans for the last 4.5 years on a 3x9 ‚11–36 cassette Surly Troll 26″ and I can tell you that 26″ anything is absolutely obsolete!! DEAD!! It has been a total nightmare! I can find zero parts for it, anywhere. Definitely forget tires. Impossible! Literally nothing anywhere. Traditional wisdom is gone out the window, China has flooded the market with 27.5/29″ and all the components for these sizes and that’s what killed the 26″ over the last 5+ years. Seriously , almost everything I have for my bike I had to buy off Amazon and getting lucky once or twice when a mechanic spent days looking for parts for me. I’ve spent days and more than 2 weeks stuck in cities looking for what was considered simple parts found “easily”! :9 speed shifters,cassettes,chains,26″ tires,disc rotors 160mm,BB,brake pads,etc…Nada!! Super frustrating! I can’t buy a new bike now but I will sell this 26″ 3x9 Troll in a flash the first chance I get or throw it straight into a river. It’s a shame because it’s a great bike. You can almost still get things for it online, but I think soon these parts will be plased out soon. Due to Covid the shipping is taking weeks and many parts are out of stock now too. I thought that being in Europe people still ride 26″ bikes I might find parts,but no.I’ve been once again stuck Tirana for more than 2 weeks just for a cassette and chain and have to take inferior parts now. If I had a 27’5 or 29″ and 10/11 speed I would have more options. My friends who toured 5–10 + years ago can’t believe this change. All 26″ inch bike frame builders out there need to know this.The market has changed, traditionalists be warned. Good luck!

Hello Ian and thanks for your comment. You certainly sound frustrated! For balance, and for the benefit of my other readers, I’d like to add a few observations:

1. 26″ is a wheel size, not a cassette sprocket count, chain width, shifter indexing system, disc rotor size, etc. It affects rim, spoke, tyre and tube availability. 2. You’re right that the industry is currently swamped with trendy new wheel sizes like 27.5 and 29. But most existing bicycles in the world have 26-inch wheels. These bicycles will always need spare parts and are unlikely to disappear overnight. 3. As for “literally nothing anywhere”, I just walked into my local supermarket and found an aisle of brand new bicycles, all adult sizes of which had 26-inch wheels, and a rack of spare tyres right next to them. I’ve said this before: it’s not just specialist bike shops that sell bikes. This is critical to remember when looking for 26-inch wheel parts in far-flung lands.

That’s all I wanted to add. I hope you get things sorted in Tirana. And I hope you’ll share with us the location of the river you throw your Surly Troll into!

Im fairly sure the Surly Long Haul Trucker promotion pictures are of frames with a different wheel size they are designed for. The picture here looks like a 60cm frame for 700c wheels but fitted with 26″ wheels. This is the same for the picture here as it is on their website, which looks like a 58cm frame for 262 wheels with 700c wheels in place. I own a Surly LHT and theyre great bikes but the frame sizeing can be a bit confusing and the promotional pictures dont help.

I would respectfully disagree, based on the fact that the brake shoes are visibly aligned correctly with the rims. If the wrong sized wheels were fitted to the frame, this wouldn’t be possible. In the past, all sizes of LHT frames have been available for both 700C and 26″ wheels, so I’d guess we’re looking at one of the larger frame sizes for 26″ wheels with the correct wheels indeed fitted. The proportions do look weird at a glance, but it is in fact how these bikes were sold. FWIW the sizing scheme of the Truckers has changed now, so wheel size better complements frame size throughout the range, as mentioned in the latest update to the post above.

Hello Tom — I have a Koga Miyata Globe Traveler which I bought in 2005 from a dealer in Lexington, KY — Pedal The Planet. (Ironically, in 1985, I did a world tour on a Miyata bicycle.) I bicycled the Lewis and Clark Trail that summer, St. Louis to Astoria, OR. 10 years later in 2015 I began a charity ride of the perimeter of the U.S. for Habitat For Humanity and Save The Children (website: usperimeterride.org) and concluded that 12,000 journey in 2017. I’ve been very happy with my Koga Miyata all these years. I’m 71 now, and don’t know if I have any expedition type tours left in me … but I keep thinking. Just wondering your thoughts on the current Koga bikes. I’ve seen a couple of comments here regarding Koga bikes — some positive and couple not (the one regarding the cracked frame). I think that there are no longer any Koga dealers in North America. Am I correct in thinking that? I believe there used to be one in Toronto, and a dealer out in Santa Barbara, CA, that handled parts. Pedal The Planet where I bought my Koga Miyata is no longer in operation. Thank you for all your info on your website!

Aaaand Long Haul Trucker is gone as well. Seems like Surly are phasing out some of the touring bikes.

Same source — LHT FAQ, third answer I think.

That’s tragic – although on closer inspection it does say “for the time being”…

Sadly, Surly will discontinue the Troll model in 2021.

Hi Lukas! Do you happen to have a source for this? I’ve checked the Surly website and social media channels and haven’t found any mention. I just want to be sure that my readers are getting accurate information. Cheers!

Someone asked the question on Surly’s website in Thorn section — Q&A. They asked whether Thorn will be renewed for 2021 and someone from the staff said that they will no longer offer this model. 

https://surlybikes.com/bikes/troll

FAQ section, should still be the first question asked. 

I was planning to build a tourer on Troll frame and I guess now I should buy it before it’s gone.

I wrote ‘Thorn’ by mistake, should be Troll (I also consider Thorn for my build and must’ve been thinking about it.)

Thanks for the reference, Lukas, that’s very useful. I guess it reflects the diminishing popularity of the 26-inch platform, at least for new bikes (and thus for profit margins).

In the premium category I’d add one of the IDWorx bikes such as the All Rohler or oPinion BLT. I visited their HQ last week and Gerrit and his team are amazing. They won ‘bike of the year 2020’ award for their BLT off-road touring bike. https://www.idworx-bikes.de/

I had the Off Rohler in this list since visiting their stall at Eurobike 2014 – it almost wins the ‘most expensive off-the-peg touring bike in the world’ award! I’m keen to see what they’ve created since then. Thank you for the link and the suggestion!

They arent’ cheap that’s for sure. I tried to trade in my wife for a titanium bike, but they only take euros.

Once they start to explain the engineering behind each component you can understand why they arrive at those prices. Also it’s a 4th gernation family of bike builders, they hand build the bikes, their staff are properly-paid, they have sunk lots of money into R&D and make many bespoke components. The attention to detail is astonishing. I spent nearly a day at their HQ with the attention of the owner, his wife, two dogs and their chief engineer. (He did his Masters theisis on Pinion gearboxes). We rode in the German countryside and tested a score of bikes. The customer service is out of this world. If you can afford it, I’d would recommend IDWorx.

Hi Tom, thanks for your help! Now im planning a big tour for a few years in Africa and America, now i have an Avaghon 26 series with Rohloff and Magura but im thinking to change with a 29″ wheels( im 1,81 cm tall ). What do you think about Surly ECR? Thnaks, Fabio.

I have never ridden the ECR so I can’t speak from experience, but I know it’s a well respected frameset. Your height suggests a 29er would be more comfortable in the long run. For planning a big tour you might want to check out my list of expedition touring bikes – this will also help you see quickly which framesets are Rohloff-compatible. Hope that helps!

I think I have “the best” touring bike available… judge for yourselves. Full suspension mid-drive eTouring bike and trailer evolution. https://photos.app.goo.gl/wP8vs7T5hLpNjSBX8

Hey Tom. Love this website. Is this still current? I can’t find a stockist that has the Flat White. Even Adventure’s own website doesn’t seem to link to it. Or am I missing something obvious? Thanks

It’s still listed at https://www.adventureoutdoor.co/bike/flat-white — I’ll be updating this article this month and will see if I can find any current stockists.

A look at secondhand market worth it as I picked up Thorn Mercury Rohloff for £1200 (pretty much the price of the hub alone) also have a rohloff on my ti 29er and it has been on 2 other mtb before that ……. pretty much fit and forget.

Hi Tom I am preparing for a number of long term trips in the near future and researched bicycles heavily (including use of your excellent website) and settled on the Ridgeback Expedition. However I have now made three attempts to buy one at cycle shops in a variety of towns and no-one seems able to sell me one! I decided to contact the compnay directly, but no phone number and they say that they take two weeks to answer e‑mails. So I would suggest that customer service might be a factor in choosing the bike to buy (these are not cheap acquisitions after all) and any company that cant even manage to communicate with customers at the point of purchase isn’t likely to have ana dequate after sales customer support! Not sure what to do now, but it definitely will not be a Ridgeback anything Dave

Local bike shops don’t tend to sell a wide variety of bikes here in the UK, they make there money from servicing bikes and selling components so it’s not really a surprise you can’t find a bike shop that sells them. A quick google search has just shown several reputable online retailers that supply the ridgeback expedition and will provide you with any customer support you might require after purchase.

Hope this helps

Thx for the info. About same specs as my modded Moonrun. I use SKF bracket spindle but have cheaper headset but works fine for years now. For carrying stuff I use strongest on market today and that is the rear rack made by Thorn. Fitted with M6 steel bolts I can come a way with most everything I throw at it. I had the frame professionally modified by Marten from M‑gineering after which it was powder coated.

Hello, Thanks for this nice article. Why is the TX-800 striked-through in the list ?

You don’t have the Surly Ogre(700c) or Troll(26″) on your list. I got the Ogre because it was suggested over the LHT or disc version because they are a little more rugged. I went from the US to Panama on an Ogre and never had a problem with it beyond needing new tires, I went with the Ogre because I had a really nice set of 700c rims. NEVER EVER go to Latin America with anything but 26″. I read a few blogs on crazyguyonabike.com and with off road touring the LHT(or disc version) needs welding.

Hello Tom. I cycled Armenia three years ago in a short tour and met an old french man Thierri, walking all the way from france to there. one month after getting home he came to me in Tehran and stayed for few days. in his Photoes, i saw you. i knew you in advance beacause of your movie. The intention of writing for you is that we’ve been in contact for one year or so but suddenly i lost him and i Thought you might remember him and have any news of him. I really hope he is doing well and being healthy. thanks sorry for misspeling

best wishes Saied

Yes, he’s safe and well and back living in France. A true legend and inspiration!

I’m currently cycling in Vietnam from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi. 2000km via the coast, in some pretty demanding scenarios. I’m riding the Cinelli HoBootleg 2018 Touring Bike which has been as tough and reliable as I had hoped it would be. I’m 1000km in of the 2000km and think it’s been a great bike. Intrigued it wasn’t listed in the line up.

Should it be? I think so yet if there is a reason for not rating or listing can you let me know? Recognise you cannot list all Touring Bikes yet it does have a great name in many other review pages.

Anyway — I rate the Cinelli!

One other thing, I think the Trek 920 should be listed. The bikes you have reviewed are very traditional and the Trek 920 certainly makes the available options a little more spicy. Touring bikes are surely headed in the Trek 920 direction wouldn’t you say? D

Tom, what do you think about Verso Tour Gitane? I’m from Argentina, and here there aren’t so many good bikes, and I can buy one Gitane, but I’ve never heard about this model. Thank you

I also haven’t heard about this one. On paper it looks like a pretty decent European-style ‘trekking bike’ – the adjustable stem and the Magura hydraulic rim brakes remind me of some better known German and Dutch models. The drivetrain choices are close to what we use for the Oxford Bike Works Expedition. I’d take a careful look at the rear rack, which doesn’t look too sturdy from the photos, and consider upgrading the tyres if you’re going on a long trip.

This bike has a lot of critical components made from aluminium: the frame, forks and rear rack. The front rack would appear to be the chromoly Tubus Ergo. Going on your previous comments about aluminium Tom you could rule this bike out for some types of touring, for example, where a frame, fork or rack break would cause a major disruption.

Thank you for post. Lot of good reading. However i am bit lost in a choice now. Do you think you can shine a bit light to it ? 

I just now finished 300km testing tour on my road bike Coyotee Route 66. I changed a lot of things in a bike like butterfly handlebars, wheels, saddle, etc etc… 

I was riding in UK from Birmingham to Warrington. But after i come back i had a pain all over my body. And i started to think about a choice all over again… 

Now In 3 days i should start trip about 4000km from UK to Portugal. Do you recommend to buy a new bike this short before? 

I explored variety of options of bikes but seems more or less simmilar. I am concern if i will go for normal touring bike riding will be bit boring. Where Surrly Troll seems bit more fun. I was also thinking about hardtail mountain bike with fork suspension. But this seem as quite slow and tiring on road. And also what you think about newer types as using cargo bike (YUBA), hybrid bike should i think about it ? And also if you have any experience with using electic bikes. With a range above 100miles seems as interesting. Go for it or not ?

Thanks a lot for your answers.

Thanks for the article, i plan to travel from Texas to the bottom of South America next year. I was planning on buying a bike there. Do you know much about American bikes and what would be good for that trip, i’m Over 6 ft and about 95kg now. I’m in china now so i don’t think buying one here would be good but, i’m open

The Surly LHT or Disc Trucker is the classic American tourer and widely available. For your height/weight I’d go for a 700c model in L or XL frame size.

Thanks for this great review. I travel now for last 5 years with a Koga World traveller bike. Very happy with it. Please include in your evaluation next time!

Bought a Koga World traveller three years ago, have been very happy with it. BUT, this summer while on a trip in Scotland I saw a nasty crack on the welding. Tried to identify a Koga dealer, and all those mentioned on their website no longer do Koga. I contacted the customer service via their website form and it took them a week to get back basically telling me to contact the seller. I bought the bike in France, so that wasn’t going to help me much! So I went to the nearest reputable dealer in Pitlochry, they confirmed my worry that the bike was too dangerous to use so bought a cheap, but very good Giant mtb, and continued the holiday. Picked the broken Koga bike up on the way back to France and went to the seller.

The bike has been sitting in the seller’s workshop for THREE WEEKS as they wait for KOGA to instruct them on how to proceed (they are no longer a Koga dealer). The frame comes with a lifetime warranty, but a warranty doesn’t fix a bike. The seller has sent photos, and sent more photos at Koga’s request, but still no instructions. They have contacted the nearest Koga dealer in France and no answer from them either. I even went to the nearest dealer in Germany to see if they could help and they refused.

I have emailed, tweeted, tried calling, but nothing seems to get them to react now.

So my advice would be to stay away from Koga unless you are ok with paying a lot of money with no assurance that you will get any form of support if you have a problem on the road.

This sounds like a terrible story and I’m sorry to hear about it. It does seem unusual that one of the most reputable high-end touring bikes would develop such a fault in the first place, however. I’d be interested to hear what solution eventually arises – I would have thought a crack in a weld under warranty would point to a brand new replacement frame.

Tom I have a dawes titanium (not disks) and I was thinking of upgrading the wheels and brakes for longer audaxes. Do you have any suggestions.

thanks David

If I were you, I’d pay a visit to my nearest professional wheelbuilder.

New Trek 1120 is a whole new dimension. Gearing up now for a Canadian ride.

Having been the proud owener of several Koga bikes for around the world trips unfortunately, since 2016 the quality has been declining. For the amount of money it cost, it is simply not worth it. For 2000 € (which the price of a Koga bike) you can get a lot of bicycle elsewhere.

Hi Tom! Thanks for an interesting article! I’m dreaming of bike adventures, both longer trips and weekend trips and try to find a new bike that can make those dreams come true. Mostly, though, I’ll use the new bike for my everyday commute in Sweden. I’ve been watching the Verenti substance tiara/sora — seems like decent components and good value which I’m pretty sure will fill my commuting needs. But how do you think it would do for longer adventures? I’m mostly concerned about weight, geometry and key component durability. I would be very grateful of a brief opinion! http://www.wiggle.se/verenti-substance-tiagra-adventure-road-2017/

Hi all, Great article — many thanks. Very useful while choosing a bike to undertake a cycle across USA in 2018 (I’ve never had a touring bike before). I chose Trek 520 (Disc brake variety) in the end which I’m really happy with. Good value at £1,000 versus other bikes available, comes with pedals and rear pannier rack and very swish gear changers. Reviews on Trek website largely very positive as well. I went for because I’m quite tall (193cm/6foot4) so was struggling to find a big enough frame in any touring bikes. Surly do large frames but are more expensive (~£1500) and no extras like pannier rack. In the end the 60cm Trek frame firs me very well — we checked standover length and top tube length and because of the geometry of the bike it actually matches some other manufacturers who produce larger frames (eg 62cm). Feel free to contact me on [email protected] if you have any questions or thinking of buying the bike, I’d be happy to help.

Ollie, London

If it is a choice between a smaller and a larger frame, my preference is for the smaller frame because a) provided the steerer hasn’t been cut yet, it is almost always possible to achieve a good fit by putting on a longer stem and raising the seatpost (swapping for a longer one if necessary) b) bigger frames are harder to pack for travel c) it can feel more manoeuvrable

Punish the thing, make the bike work for you, and don’t be limited by the bike or its stuff. Bikes get stolen, plans go squiify and so what if we decide to take the really cruddy road upppp that turns into gravel then kind of goat track then.. and you land up pushing and doing singletrack downhill to .. mud and gravel and finally .. So, my bike came out of a skip, a rusty 2012 Scott Speedster S30. Thrown out! Square section BB, road rims and tyres (I know.. but a good spoke key makes life simple). wide range 9x2 gears. But it takes racks.. The boom in road cycling means 700c and road bike bits are much easier than they were a decade ago — even in Yemen and Iran. Total build cost of my bike: £100 including panniers. Bits and pieces off gumtree, pinkbike, etc. If it get bent, hah. If it gets nicked, hah. The no-compromise bits: ‘fit’ / setup, the saddle, my most comfy/worn SPD shoes, tubeless with goop.

Brilliant! Thanks for sharing this!

Hey this is great stuff! However, do you have recommendations for bikes in the US? ‑j

Sure – many of the bikes in this article are from U.S. manufacturers, Surly and Kona being the obvious two. Also check out REI’s range of tourers under the Co-op Cycles brand.

Hi Tom, love your site. I need to thank you not only for an informative site in general, but also for helping me make a decision on a touring bike. Until recently I lived in Darwin, Australia. It’s reasonably isolated and the choice of bike brands is severely limited. Thus, test riding anything decent is out of the question. My wife was fortunate enough to get the opportunity to work in France for 6 months so I saw this a a great chance to purchase the bike of my dreams. Armed with advice from your site (and others) I narrowed it down to two bikes — the VSF TX-400 with Shimano drive train, and the Rose Activa Pro 2. As there wasn’t a Rose dealer where we were living in France, the TX-400 was the winner. That was August last year and I haven’t had even a twinge of regret. I love it. Keep up the great work mate. I look forward to following your adventures (and Charlie’s) for many years to come. Cheers, Derek.

I am surprised that Ridgeback is still fitting aluminium racks to its high-end touring bikes when most other brands fit cro-moly. Aluminium whilst okay for components such as wheel rims, handlebars, and seatposts, is too fragile for heavily loaded racks with thin small diameter tubes and suffers too easily from metal fatigue.

I am surprised that serious riders will still accept an add-on rack of any kind steel or not. Every connection is a weak link. Tout-Terrain, Panamericana. http://www.en.tout-terrain.de/bicycles/panamericana/ — not interested in the pinion gearing but you can’t beat the frame.

Hi Tom and readers, Does anyone out there have any experience with or notion of what to do with the following problem? (saddle soreness — chafing). My girlfriend has a typical german woman’s uprightish trekking bike by bulls, and we did just one two week tour on it last summer. She’d never toured before. She found her “intim Bereich” (intimate area) got rubbed a lot by the saddle (wasn’t an issue with short local trips previously), so I ended up buying and trying a new saddle, then a series of the best rated woman’s saddles out there, and all of them did the same rubbing thing. Biking shorts and a gel pad didn’t help fully or much. She thought being more upright helped the rubbing, by taking pressure off the front of the saddle and putting it more on the sitz bones, so I got some big curvy bar ends and cranked them way back, so she can sit totally upright. I even added a nice suspension seatpost. But somehow the pain won’t go away. I’m really at a loss about what to do. I wonder if a new frame would help at all. Anyone find a saddle that really helps with sensitive bottoms? I’m leaning towards getting her a recumbent, but can’t really afford it, and she doesn’t tour with me a lot. I ride a bacchetta giro 20 myself and highly recommend it for touring! Thanks for any advice!

hi Jeff and all, dr. jim parker from cruzbike has compiled some very revealing facts regarding health issues cyclists commonly are facing, i.e. genital numbness & e.d. besides the usual (wrist,back & neck). i do suffer from groin pains riding on my dawes upride racing bike within 30–45 min.

hence for my upcoming uk & european (& car replacement) tour i am opting for an “atl-falter” from radnabel in tuebingen, germany. atl stands for “all tags lieger”(recumbent for everyday-all year/tasks); falter stands for folding. they are not well known outside of central europe, have been handbuild for nearly 30 years and are highly regarded for being — safe (long wheel base, low center of gravity), nimble (sharp turning circle), quick (ergonomic design & pushing against the backrest/very good uphills), comfortable (no neck, groin or wrist pain, full suspension), good load carrying capability [70kg total], “protecting” (see: allwetterverkleidung/foldable fairing/poncho), well engineered and sound workmanship. although dieter baumann (builder) speaks english, the webside is in german only. the atl-falter with rohloff, full chain cover, rear rack, pannier holders, twoleg stand weighs 17–18 kg (chrmo steel). 

you get an better idea about radnabels atl’s watching these videos:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xZgX6zIViBY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fsBEvBX_S4o

they have proved themselves also on long distance tours germany to china. happy cycling or as we say in bavaria: “frohes radln” regards reinhard

Ok, my thing about touring bikes, what about the weight?! Most tourers are just too heavy, 17Kg+ steel monsters. “They have to be, for the reliability”…well the only frames I’ve had break were a steel and an Al frame. Maybe you’ll say “blasphemy” but my trekking bike of choice is a modified carbon fibre Simplon “Nanolight” K3. My aim has been the lightest bike but still fit for a tour of up to a month on road. This thing has been faultless for 9 years of mainly mountain tours (and daily commuting). The essentials, for me, are: good hub dynamo lighting, hydraulic Rim brakes (discs are, expletive, Primadonnas), brooks saddle, bike rack, mudguards, oh and lightness. Everything is carbon or titanium, except the wheels, saddle and handlebar. it’s expensive but still less than people spend on fancy packages for their car. Final tour weight is around 9.1Kg. I even made my own bike bags out of lightweight cuben fibre. Yes the bike could be seen as excessively focussed on weight, but nowadays trekking bikes could be a lot lighter than they are, we would have many more people on bikes, heavy bikes stop people biking. J Jones.

I have noticed that all these touring bikes have no suspension in the front wheel. I am curious, why? Does a front suspension affect the performance of these long bike trips?

For most tours it’s simply not necessary. A suspension fork adds complication, meaning more to go wrong. Forks without lockout introduce inefficiency. Finally, most forks are incompatible with lowriders (front racks).

Bikepacking (i.e. lightweight offroad touring) is a different story, but still a small niche.

Is there an easy solution to fitting a front light to my Ridgeback Voyage with a bar bag in situ? I do not want an extending arm attached to the drops with the light above the bag. I was wondering if one can purchase a bracket to bolt onto the mudguard retaining bolt on top of the front forks immediately below the headset. This would have to be offset to clear the cantilever cables. Any thoughts Anthony

A bracket on the fork crown is a common (old-fashioned) solution. Some bar-bags also have a mounting bracket accessory for a light (the Carradice one comes to mind). Or you can wear a headtorch!

Thanks Tom for your reply, I have had lots of comments and thoughts from others on the Cycling UK forum too. As is often the case as soon as one starts looking into things there are loads of solutions available. I have learnt a lot just by looking at the various websites sugggested by people. I have now purchased a good light that will fit on the fork itself and and allow to be positioned pointing down to cover the road in front. Not a dissimilar situation from the old ‘ever ready ‘lamps that we had on our bikes back when I was a child in the 50s and 60s. Though this is a USB rechargeable smaller model. I think this will do the job. So thank you again for your thoughts and I will soon start to read your book on my kindle which arrived today. I look forward to that.

Great site Tom and full of excellent stuff and info. Keep it up.

Kind regards Anthony Brewer

Hi Tom and all, Has anyone any experience of the cantilever brakes designed specifically for tandems and tourers by a company in Seattle USA called Rodriguez bikes., R&E Cycles. They call the design ‘The Big Squeeze’. I looked into this as I am not sure in my mind yet whether my Shimano cantis will work on my Ridgeback Voyage as well as I want on a heavy laden bike on very steep descents. The contact I have had with the American company has been excellent and speedy. They have no distributers or outlets in the UK and the brakes are quite expensive but look with all the information they provide a well thought out and constructed brake. Any comments, opinions or knowledge on this from anyone would be very much appreciated Anthony Brewer

Spa Cycles, a touring specialist fit these. 

http://www.spacycles.co.uk/m2b0s101p2386/TEKTRO-RX-5-Mini-V-Brakes

I have used them on 4 loaded alpine and Pyrenean tours on my Ridgeback panorama and they have been great. They need fine tuning and true wheels but have plenty of power and work much better than the ones supplied by Ridgeback. My Panorama only cost £450 so I would be reluctant to spend $250 plus shipping on those. Also I am not a fan of the style I think they stick out too much and could cause injury in a collision.

Thank you Phil for your comment on these brakes. I use simialr V brakes on my hybrid as per your link to Spacycles. However as I understand things it isn’t possible (easily that is) to change to V brakes ( which I do like ) without quite some work. I have dropped bars with the gear change incorporated in the brakes. The length of the cable is significant and the possible use of a ‘travel agent ’ to allow for the cable pull etc etc. Are you saying that Spa cycles would change my present cantilver system to these V brakes advertised? As I said I have yet to test my present brakes seriously but will definitely be doing so this spring/summer. Thank you for the recommendation Phil Regards Anthony

No problem Anthony. I ordered them from Spa and fitted them in one hour and I am no expert. May have needed new cables and small sections of outer because of the lengths of the runs but it was straight forward. You can remove the original centre-pull aluminium cable stay as the new cable comes from the side. The original brake levers and repeater levers will work, no new ones are required as the travel is sufficient. I also looked into travel agents to gear up the travel but I agree they are complicated. The mini-vs don’t need the same amount of travel as the full size v‑brake. They are just 85mm not 105mm. Admittedly it is possible with them fitted the level can be pressed right onto the bars, but by that time you would be over the handle bars. The large amount of travel gives you precise control. 

It is very straight forward to fit but you could always order them and get the local bike shop to fit them.

PS the cantilevers supplied on Ridgeback tourers are on the verge of being dangerous on a fully loaded tourer down a steep hill. I recommend changing them to Tektro mini- v brakes I showed you or Tekro CR720 

http://www.highonbikes.com/tektro-cr720-cyclo-cross-bike-cantilever-brakes-front-rear.html?gclid=CjwKEAiArvTFBRCLq5-7-MSJ0jMSJABHBvp0WpP5LLsbie8YcECqv8AAZxpL0R1slUyaJFRFZzcQghoC0YTw_wcB

I don’t like them because as I previously said they stick out too much

Again many thanks Phil. You have certainly given me much to consider. However the Tektro CR720 are themselves cantilever brakes too. So I wonder why you have suggested these as a possible alternative to my present tektro Oryx cantilever brakes on my Ridgeback? They look very similar. I do appreciate your comments on this subject Anthony

the CR720s are used by my co-cyclists on tours and are much better than the oryx design in terms of efficiency. It’s all about the distance from the rim to where the cable connects, much more leverage. I included them as an alternative but would still favour the mini-v’s personally.

they look very different from your once fitted: http://bananarider.com/product/tektro-cr720/

Hi, would you consider Specialized Crosstrail Disc 2017 a good touring bike? I am looking forward to buy my first bike aiming to use it for a long tour (upto 3–6 months) next year around europe.

Also a doog opyion in my opinion: http://www.kross.pl/en/2016/trekking/trans-alp

I’ve recently purchased a Cinelli Hobooleg for £1100, although I’ve only been using it for my 10 mile commute so far I’m very happy with it.

It looks the part and from the reviews I’ve read it will hopefully see me safely around North Wales on my first proper test run later this month.

Looking at the features of these touring bikes they look like early 90s mountain bikes. 26″ wheels?Check. Steel frame? Check. Rigid fork? Check. 7/8 speed drive train with thumb shifters? Check. Braze ons for racks and fenders? Check. I would suggest folks keep an eye out for a good used mountain bike from this era and you could save a bunch while ending up with a bike just as robust, lighter and with higher quality parts(granted, said parts may need some love). I found an abandoned Rocky Mountain Team Comp which has frame tubing better than any of the bikes listed (heat treated tubing by Tange of Japan). The bikes of this era were of very high quality as it was the fastest growing sport then and the competition was fierce with leaps in steel tubing technology. Steel was still the material of choice also. I managed to build my bike up(it was missing a lot of parts) for maybe $500 and I have XTR rear derailleur, Sunrace 8 cassette, Suntour XC thumb shifters, Syncros stem, NOS XT UN73 BB…you get the picture. The additional bonus is a bike that is still quite light yet strong. I wouldn’t recommend this to someone who knows nothing about bikes but if you are a bit of a bike geek its pretty rewarding finding a good higher end mountain bike and fixing it up. Parts back then were very well made.

Hey Tom, Edinburgh Bikes have a new tourer out end of the month, http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/products/revolution-country‑2–16

I’m sure it’s similar to your reviewed bike above but would be great to hear your thoughts.

looking at a bike trip in 2018 from shanghai to istanbul semi-supported. been doing self-supported touring on my 25 yo trek 970 but the sour grape machine is ready to be retired. been shopping around and am considering the novara safari–i like the mustache handlebars and the price seems good but worried about the quality of components and whether 700 wheels are potentially a problem…i know 26″ is more the standard when you are in the middle of nowhere. any input would be much appreciated.

Tom, I have been researching touring bikes for quite some time and I think I have found the bike to start touring. Following your advice in this blog I picked up a 15 year old MTB that is in great shape. I will put on touring tires and a rack that I already own and I’m ready to go on some short introductory adventures. Perhaps if I really get the touring bug I will invest in a new bike but for now this will do and the price is right. Thank you.

For anyone currently looking, my local LBS, The Bike Shed Devon, have a bit of a touring sale going on at the moment. Definitely worth looking before making any decisions. http://www.bikesheduk.com/touring-bikes-for-sale

Thank you very much for the tip on discounted 2015 Dawes Galaxy AL bicycles from Evans. I just picked one up for £400!

Evans has also the Dawes Galaxy Cross cromo (steel frame, disc brakes, straight bars) for the same price. Looks like a bargain.

Having cycled and backpacked since I was at school, in my mid 50’s i decided it was time to combine the two persuites and try a spot of weekend touring. Not wanting to spend too much on a bike that i may not get on with, I bought my daughters barely used 2001 Specialized Hardrock off her. It cost me £225 new originally, so she recon I got a bargain at £40 second hand!!! It’s Cr Mo steel frame and rigid forks [not even butted], Acera group set, square drive triple chain rings and 26″ wheels, have a real solid feel, so after fitting Marathon tyres, racks, and bar ends, I treated myself to a pair of 46li Altus rear panniers and a bar bag. Packing lightweight and minimalist, my first weekend away was a real success. On my next outing of 4‑days, a rear spoke went after the first 20 miles, but no rubbing, so I finished my tour in the Cotswolds, but walked up a lot of hills. For my next trip in the Peak District, I had a new twin-wall rear wheel, and a new wider range rear cassette, still walked up many hills, but who cares, I was wild camping, and just making my route up as I went along. I keep looking at new bikes, but don’t know how I would really benefit, the bike just keeps rolling along happily for my short breaks. A new bike may weigh less. My rig weighs in at 16.5kg without panniers, how does that compare with other tourers?

So, the ultimate all-round tourer *is* a 26 inch wheel frame with geometry which looks like my many-times-earmarked-for-the-skip, first generation, double-butted cro-mo mid-80s MTB that’s in the shed? It confirms my own conclusions (though I’m no hardcore global wanderer like yourself). Interesting that it looks as if 26″ wheels will remain relevant. I was thinking there is a gap in the market for a longer and near-horizontal toptube frame style (with, perhaps, 29er wheels), instead of the downhill-style geometry which seems obligatory on all fat-tyre machinery.

[…] spend money on a good bike and the necessary gear you’ll find costs are minimal. Many good quality bikes can be purchased for less than £100. Many travelling bicyclists choose to camp at official […]

Thanks for the advice! I was faffing around for about a year trying to buy a touring bike in the UK but never quite got around to it. I’m now in Vietnam about to set off in a time pressured trip to India (through Laos, Thailand and Myanmar) and I no longer have the same access to the kinds of brands mentioned above(or budgets). I’ve found something called a Windspeed Long Rider touring classic, which is a Chinese brand, and the bike shop is offering a pretty good deal inclusive of accessories. Let’s hope it’s up to the job! Anyone have any experience or knowledge of this bike? Mostly sold only in Asia I think.

Hi. I am trying to choose a bike for touring around the world that would be a slow heavyweight may be some times off road and long term! but in my country there is not a wide choice for me! I have to choose a bike and change it into a touring one! my question is what kind of bikes is good for me! road bikes that mostly used here for races or mountain! here i can find bikes from Merida , giant, Fuji, Scott, specialized! of course I have an old Peugeot mountain bike that i was thinking about changing in to a touring bike but i am not sure! it is too old! thank you 🙂

Finally bought me touring bike, a Specialized AWOL DLT. Took your advice to try it and decided on a medium instead of a large frame (I’m 5′9″) since it was more comfortable. The problem was to find any bike shops who stocks touring bikes in Sweden, found only the AWOL, Kona Rove and Trek 520. As a plus I got a good discount, paid “only” £760 (Evans charges £1160) since the dealer said -“customers ask for touring bikes and then they do not buy them”!

Hi Rob, where in Sweden did you buy it ? I am in Norway (Oslo to be precise) and can´t find any shop stocking touring bikes.

Hi Francesco, http://www.cykelhuset.com sell Specialized AWOL, http://www.jarlacykel.se sell Trek 520 and http://www.fixmybike.se sell Kona. I have only ridden the AWOL and the Rove, both seemed very competent. Just on way back from virgin trip Sassnitz — Berlin, so far satisfied, love the 700x42c tires, perfect for tarmac and gravel!

Tom, for my 21st birthday I got a Cannondale T1000, 22 years and 15000 miles later (low mileage bike) it is going strong. It has been to Paris a couple of times, Amserdam 4 or 5 times and one long trip from Cherbourg to Santander as well as numerous day and weekend UK outings, it has towed a Tag Along for a fair few miles and had a child seat for some of its life. Much of today’s riding is spent on minor roads and tracks around the New Forest and Wiltshire. Few parts have worn out, I am on the second BB, and I upgraded the chainset to an ultegra, other than a couple of tyres, chains and cassettes I have had to do very little. I love the bar end shifters for their reliability, the XT cantilever brakes do a good job stopping the bike, even on 50 mph descents in the Pyraneese with full panniers and camping gear and my 80 kg weight. With an 11 to 32 cassette, 24 speed are fine on a tourer, spacing is well judged. It is really hard to imagine how it could be improved on.….

I just picked up a 2004 Cannondale T2000 for my son’s 13 birthday. Cost just £300 and looks fantastic, in fact looks new. I am surpised how light it is. It Has a few upgrades, including a nice Kinesis fork, which delivers a much nicer ride than my T1000 and it also has a 30 speed XT / ultegra group set and a really nice looking rack. Overall this is the nicest bike I have ever ridden, it is adjusted to perfection and feels really well sorted definately a subtle but noticeable upgrade from the T1000

How does an older mid range tourer like the Cannondale T1000 or T2000 compare with today’s mid range tourers like the Surly LHT or Daws Super Galaxy

To be honest I would be really confident that my Cannondale could tackle a more adventurous tour than I have tried

“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” – that sums up any longer and more detailed response I could come up with! 🙂

hey tom! an interesting article you have here 🙂 hopefully you can shed some light on my situation. me and my mate are literally just starting out after training, we are planning a big trip! Our trip in mind is taking us from the uk, through france and to the south of spain. we figure that we want a bike that can take the distance, but can also take us as off road as is sensible. we plan on visiting a few cities also! (we’re thinking cobbled streets and some gravelly paths) so im not entirely sure what kind of bracket we fall under, but the bike i have put a deposit down for (buying new) and am collecting tomorrow, is a specialized sirrus, costing 400 pounds sterling. am i looking in the right kind of bike here considering our journey and our plans? 

as far as i understand (our beginner cycling pedigree in mind) pad brakes are risk free and easily replaced, steel frame and forks are more durable. would having flat bar handle bars restrict us some what? hope you can help! thanks, cillian.

For a trip to the south of Spain pretty much any bike will do, as long as it fits you and it can carry your luggage! (I hope you’ve test ridden this bike before buying it – most important thing of all in getting the right bike!)

Check out this blog series if you want any more info on specific components and things…

Thanks for the swift reply there Tom, yeah I’ve ridden the bike, but as I’m a complete novice, it feels better than any bike I can remember riding. I guess I’m concerned about getting a bike with the right geometry and what not! Any unbiased thoughts on the specialised sirrus as my choice? So long as it’s comfortable of coarse, thanks! Cil

Only that it’s not really a touring bike! £500 would get you a Revolution Country Traveller which would be fully kitted out for touring and has had a number of excellent reviews. You could also get a much higher-spec second hand touring bike for that money.

Fit is important, but if you’re buying a new bike it might make sense to get one that’s designed for the job at hand, rather than adapting a hybrid. Just a thought!

excellent advice good sir! its seems for now that we are settling for our hybrids in good faith that they will pay off when we are mooching around cities and taking scenic bridle ways! thanks a lot for the replies Tom, happy cycling!

Safe roads!

Do you or others on this site have experiences with the Co-Motion bicycles for touring (www.co-motion.com)? They are made in the USA (Eugene, Oregon).. 

I have a Surly LHT with many miles on it and wanted to updated to the new 2015 Disc Trucker with the 10-speen 11/36 cassette, but was considering the Co-Motion Americano. There is a LARGE price delta (Americano is around $ 4,100 US$.

Any experiences/feedback is appreciated.

Have a TERRIFIC day!

Darren Alff of Bicycle Touring Pro has it — Co-Motion Pangea — and he loves it! He had it even repainted recently and put back again: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XAwqgXhRzc&t=23s See also his channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCGE4MRedy8pXEdJb9Vsx‑g

Most of the touring bikes I read about in this section either deal with 700c size wheels or 26″ wheels. I bought a Surly Ogre 29er and it’s been the best commuting/touring bike in my opinion. The wider wheels help to accommodate a wider tire (1.9–2.3) that helps absorb the load that you’d be carrying.

You can fit 1.9–2.3″ tyres on a 26″ wheel too. It is the original mountain bike wheel size, after all!

[…] Redninga for den som vil gjøre grundig research blir da å slå over til engelsk. Et bildesøk på “touring bike” bekrefter at dette begrepet har en bestemt betydning. Søket “which touring bike to buy” gir også en endeløs rekke med relevante og informative treff. Spesielt godt liker jeg rådene til min favorittsykkelblogger, britiske Tom Allen. […]

Hi Tom … any thoughts of including a recumbent in your Best Touring Bike selection? Like say an Azub 6? http://www.azub.eu/azub-5-five-recumbent-bike/

While they are the cost of two or three of the above selections I’m interested in your experience or opinions?

Because they’re very much in a niche of their own, I’d rather do a whole feature on recumbent touring options. Suggestions welcome! In the meantime, have a read of my own recumbent tour last year …

This has been an interesting read — as I’m a devout touring bike user, even though touring the world is not on my horizon. Suffolk and noerh Essex are most definitely part of my equation and between 50 — 110 miles per trip are not unusual along with cycling to and from work.

For 18 years I’ve enjoyed my long sought after 1997 Dawes Super Galaxy, which is now up for a complete drive train rebuild (and a return to drop handlebars but without those awful bar end changers), but I’m also keen to add a second bike to the collection as the Dawes is the only form of transport I have and really do need a bike to get to work for as early as 3am (outside public transport times).

My 2 options are the new 2015 Dawes Super Galaxy or the 2015 Ultra Galaxy. Yes, I’m sticking with Dawes, with my current Super Galaxy’s record why not? Also, I can get the bike via the company bike to work scheme and save some dosh. Whilst the budget is between £2000-£3000, I reason over 18 years this will become a bit of a bargain. So the question of this comment is really this:

What are the benenfits of the Titanmium Frame on the Ultra Galaxy over the Reynolds 853 tubing on the Super Galaxy frame? Do I really need to spend that extra £700?

Please, no comments about lucky you etc — it is 18 years since I last made this big an investment and apart from new tyres and inner tubes and a swap to butterfly handlebars the bike is pretty much as it came out of the shop (despite almost 100k miles of travel and commuting). I see this as the kind of purchase that is similar to that of purchasing a car…

Hi Andrew — what did you decide on in the end and are you happy with that decision? I find myself looking at exactly the same choice to make (Galaxy super vs. ultra). It’s not straightforward!

Although I am not a touring cyclist I put in quite a bit of mileage commuting (around 120 miles per week) using either a steel audax type bike (Ridgeback Mercury), alu hybrid or ancient Dawes Horizon (fitted with studded tyres for snowy/icy days). Fancying doing a bit of touring I recently bought a Revolution Explorer with disc brakes and have been riding it since Christmas. Has to be said that the disc brakes are a revelation compared to any sort of rim brake (I have tried them all apart from hydraulic); no constant adjustment, no rim wear, no filthy aluminium slurry all over the rims, silent and they actually work in the rain ( of which there is plenty here in Lancashire). The latter point saved me earlier this week when I had to do any emergency stop to avoid an idiot driver, I doubt any other sort of brake would have been up to it. And I am talking about BB5s which I understand are budget disc brakes.

I am about to buy an used tourer for occasional touring use for my son, he has a Ribble road bike. Budget £300 and I have a choice of Ridgeback World Voyage 2012 …520 CroMo.…Sora.…Alivio etc or a ‘Dale T800 2003, hardly used, Ally.…CroMo forks…Tiagra.…XT etc. I can easily make decisions at work involving lots of cash…but this one appears to have me foxed!! (I have a stable of steeds and tour on a Roberts Roughstuff, I should be able to choose!!!) Please help! Thanks one and all!

[…] utstyret du velger når du skal legge ut på en lang sykkeltur. På nettsida si har han skrevet om hva som er den beste tursykkelen. I eboka går han atskillig mer grundig til verks. Verdt å nevne er at han legger spesiell vekt […]

you forgot koga miyata 😉

I’ve just bought the 2015 Ridgback Tour.

Ive just this minute seen that aluminium frames have a much lower life expectancy than steel due to the fact that they fatigue — is this true? Ive heard that 5 years is the life expectancy of such a frame even if cared for? Have I bought a white elephant — as I planned to treasure it. Thanks.

I’ve just thinking that all bikes mentioned above are in price of year long trip. My humble suggestion is: buy retail! I bought a trek bike in pawn shop for 180euro and so far this holds for 4 seassons (16000km, regions spread from scandinavia to balkans) and now I’m preparing this beauty for 17000km long trip from czechia to indonesia. Throughout these trips I never broke a spoke (seen this problem many times in my friends Dawes) and punctured so few times that it can hardly be mentioned. So far I spend almost 6 months on the roads and during this time I spend less money than price of the cheapiest bike mentioned above.

So my advice is search it, test it, uprgade it, love it and than… finally ride it,-D Put a piece of your heart and skills into your piece of metal. Relationship between tourbiker and his bike must be stronger than click on ebay. Sorry for english and toilet phylosophy, I’m still upgrading,-D

Tom, I just wanted to say a very big thank-you for helping me choose the right touring bike. After spending many evenings checking your advice and loads of websites, I finally opted for a Dawes Galaxy Classic. I took your advice and went via eBay to Kingsway Cycles of Cambridge. I paid £900 instead of £1300 for a 2014 model! More importantly, it’s the right bike. I’ve only done about 60 miles since Saturday, but it’s really excellent. Kingsway are a great bike shop and really nice to deal with — none of that irritating superiority complex so common in good bike shops. I’d recommend them. Again, thank you. Alistair

Seven things:

Now the bike is bedding-in, before a big trip, have the LBS tighten your spokes and true the wheel(s) as required.

Take the time to ensure that the inside of the wheel rims have wide tape, not plastic or thin tape — you will thank me when you don’t get pinch-flats from the inner spoke nipples.

Chop out the brakes for V brakes. I have the same cantilever brakes, and they’re poor. It’s my next upgrade after upgrading my wheel set — as you can tell, this is real-world experience talking here!

If you fit a Ortleib (or similar) bar mounted bag, replace the existing gear cables with extra long ones since they are a little too short as standard and will crop over time and your gear shifting will become increasing difficult and then the front mech’ will cease working.

If you are running Shimano gearing,chain etc make sure the jockey wheels are not a 3rd party set, if so, buy Shimano ones, they work better than others.

You will notice as you ride, most of the touring bikes you’ll encounter are Dawes; how cool is that?

The enjoyment of your adventure is reflected in the width of your daft Cheshire-Cat grin, so grin, then grin some more!

Fantastic! I hope you get many years of touring enjoyment from it!

Hello Tom & Co.,

Do you have input on preferred bikes / systems for long rides with two young kids? 

Preferably sub-$2,000 (US), with a granny gear, and disc brakes.

I am trying to figure out which adult touring bike (and system) to use with my kids. The four-year old child will be in an attached trailer bike (with coupler), and the two-year old child will be in a chariot trailer behind that (via skewer hub)…unless someone has a better idea.

I already own a Specialized Tarmac for zipping around, and a Santa Cruz mountain bike for the trails. For a few years, I’ve reluctantly used my carbon fiber Tarmac for pulling my oldest child in the Chariot trailer. The ergonomics are all wrong, especially in the hills.

Now I have both a four-year old and a two-year old child, plus we live in major mountains. I want to do LONG family rides, and commutes around town (paved / gravel mixed). Ideally the bike could also be used for (solo) century rides. Once they are older, I’d like to explore multi-day touring with me on the same bike.

Salsa Vaya? Trek 520? Surly LHT, Cross Check, or Straggler? 

Big thanks!

[…] started thinking about this tour; my thoughts immediately went to the tried&true options for bike touring (Surly LHT for example), and I was waiting for a deal to pounce on online for months.  But living […]

3864 miles thus far (26 Sept 2014) around Britain and without doubt the most popular bike is the Dawes, maybe 80% (?) streel framed in the majority, and whilst we are at it, Ortlieb panniers, also in the majority.

I am on a 2008 Dawes SG. Rubbish cantilever brakes — to be replaced in short order. Replaced the wheels as the rims were concave, but she is an eBay Special (£590) likewise the four panniers (£83). Fantastic combo with Tubus steel racks.

Hi Tom, I believe the bikes from German Company Tout Terrain have a good name as well. Namely the “Silkroad” seems a fantastic bike to me. Expensive but has all the gimmicks I like to have (Rohloff and disc brakes). http://www.en.tout-terrain.de/bicycles/silkroad/

i was stranded in london on the 4th aug (after losing my oyster and bank cards) leaving me with just £10 and a predicament a quick look on gumtree found me a nearby bike (complete with 21 speeds and rack and double panniers inc cycle comp for my insane budget and now 10 days later its covered 120 miles and by far best buy ever for a tenner 🙂

ps i live 18 miles away in the subarbs so as to speak

Love the site, especially the discussions on this page!

I’m interested in your views on bar-end shifters. My wife’s Sabbath Silk Route was stolen in Amsterdam recently and she’s loathe to spend quite so much on a replacement. Many of the sub-£1,000 tourers seem to have bar-end shifters and she’s a bit nervous about taking them on. What are the pros and cons compared with integrated brake lever shifters? Quite like the look of the Genesis Tour de Fer but the bar end shifters are the only sticking point.

Pros: Simple, durable, reliable.

Cons: Less efficient to actually operate; inexperienced users whack their knees on them.

For a long-term tourer I’d take bar-end or downtube shifters over STIs any day.

I bought the Tour de Fer and did an 8 day tour in Greece. Its an excellent bike and I’m really happy with it but the bar shifters are annoying. I decided to upgrade the bike with a tubus tara front rack and a son dynamo hub with a plug usb charger. I’ll do a review of the bike later as I’m about to set off on a tour to Singapore something its probably not designed for but it came within my Ride-To-Work budget and I’m not a fan of the 26inch tourers I’d rather take my chances in the bikes shops. FYI the new version has a flat bar instead of drops and a tubus tara lowrider as standard — bonus! Love your site it’s been invaluable in my tour planning

You can always move the bar end shifters up onto the flats using a solution like Pauls Thumbies or SJS do their own version. It’s just a bolt on bracket with a mount for the shifter and a cable stop. If you ride mainly on hoods and flats then they are much easier to reach than down at the end of the drops. Cable maintenance is easier as well.

Many thanks for your excellent website. I’m thinking of doing Land’s End to John O’Groats and have seen a Raleigh Gran Tour at our local cycle shop. It seemed fine on a trial run round the block. Any significant pros or cons that I need to be aware of?

Nick check out the Surly Long Haul Disc Trucker it will be the best Touring Bike you will ever buy and will take you anywhere wheel size go for 26 and you can travel the world buy once not twice

Thanks John. I’ll check it out. 

Another issue that’s coming up is tourers vs endurance bikes. Any strong preferences either way, anyone?

Are you doing an endurance ride? Or are you going on a cycle tour?

Different tools for different jobs…

Hi Tom, I was wondering if you had any experience or knowledge of the Cinelli Hobo? It does seem to come as a fairly complete package as well as a 61 frame which is good for a tall person like myself.

I’m afraid I don’t! Sorry! It does look like a good bike, though.

I have a cinelli hobo for mixed trail touring. I find it incredibly comfortable and a really good load hauler. Some of the stock parts are pretty poor, particularly the FSA alpha drive chainset (replaced with Deore, and the alex rims on sora hubs which i’ve recently replaced. The weakest part of the setup for me is the microshift bar end shifters… I had real trouble keeping them indexed. I have swapped for an old pair of Tiagra STI shifters and these feel much better with a deore chainset and rear mech.

It has shorter chainstays than my old galaxy but still has plenty of heel clearance fitted with ortlieb classic panniers. The bars are the most comfortable I have ever used!

Overall i’m really pleased with it as it suits my choice of riding on mixed road, track and trail with a nice blend of cyclocross and touring capabilities… just a shame the marketing around the bike is so goddamn annoying!

I am planning a touring for next year, I was thinking to get a bicycle with a 29’‘ rim using a 28c tyre, i also plan to use mavic hubs, but i am not sure how tough a mavic hub can be on long touring distances, i guess i may not have problems as far i get some spare bearings and parts for the hubs. any suggestion about the rim sizes? will a 27″ rim do the same job as a 29’’ rim size? I have seen that NS has some cool looking hubs, i know they are for dirt-jump bikes, but those are something i consider dues they are do to resist hard impact of daily trainings, but my doubt is if a a hub for hard impact interfere with speed and smooth riding, by logic i guess it doesn’t interfere depending on what bearing it uses…am i right? Ps.: i enjoy cycling fast. lol

i found some other hub, the DT Swiss looks pretty good… but they don’t have a nice front hub with Disk break, that is what is pity, but i may get normal brakes, cos the disk brake has a high cost maintenance …

Where are you going? Your primary consideration is spare parts availability. 26″ or 700c wheels are the only sensible choice for 99% of tours, and I wouldn’t recommend anything other than Shimano cup-and-cone hubs with loose bearings and easy maintenance, ideally XT. They’re tour proven and won’t need a second thought.

Have found your website invaluable in the preparation of a bike trip my brother and I are making from London to Istanbul on August 10 (our first bike trip). I bought your book this afternoon on Amazon too as it should be a handy guide on the trip.

I’m just about to buy a bike and have come down to the Dawes Galaxy 2014 for £691 and the Raleigh Sojourn, which I founded hugely discounted here for £689 (down from £1,100!): http://www.ashcycles.com/site/raleigh-sojourn-2013 . I’d be very grateful if you (or anyone else on this page) could suggest what you think would be the better buy for my budget of £700?

Cheers, Shaun

Very glad you’ve found this site useful.

In my experience, which touring bike to buy depends on choosing the right tool for the job, and seeing what feels good to ride. I’m going to guess that you’re fairly sure both these bikes will meet your needs, but that you haven’t tried either of them out. So the only useful suggestion I can offer is to see which you can test-ride locally. On paper they’re as good as identical. You can discuss specification charts until the cows come home but it’ll all be irrelevant once you’ve actually started riding.

Ideally you’d test-ride both, but if you can only try one, then at least you can either eliminate it from your shortlist or confirm that it’ll do the job — then buy it.

The other critical reason for testing bikes out is to ensure that you get the right size, as incorrectly-sized bikes are the biggest source of discomfort and even injury on tour.

Hope this helps!

Thanks a lot for the tip Tom and appreciate you taking the time out to respond to me.

I’m based in HK and so unfortunately won’t be able to test-ride either of them (only a narrow window in London and they have to be ordered in advance), but if you say that the specs are identical then it makes the decision a bit easier — comes down to the aesthetics now!

I’ve got a KHS TR-101, bought from Cycle Surgery. Since these are relatively uncommon, I thought I’d put up my thoughts.

It’s a lovely bike to ride and I’ve done 2 3‑week trips to New Zealand South Island on it, usually somewhere between 50 and 100km a day. But I do think the brakes are not good enough for a tourer — I’m going to switch mine out after realising as I coasted down from Arthurs’ Pass in the rain with a loaded bike that I couldn’t stop even if I wanted to — and the mudguard fittings have been annoying — little plastic clips which pop ou, and which don’t hold the guard far out, so it rubs the tyres if the guard gets even slightly warped. Both easily replaced though. I’ve carried medium weights on it — prob. ca. 20kg — with ease, using both front and back racks and it feels very smooth and well-balanced. In fact, I think it’s the easiest bike I’ve ever ridden in that respect. Even the stock saddle is OK although I’m finally switching to a Brooks.

I don’t find the gears allow me to get up big hills when it’s loaded (but that might be just me — I’m not very gritty about hills.…) but it’s very smooth to handle and way faster than most other bikes off the bigger hills. 

I’ve done almost all on road on it and wouldn’t do off road again after an 80km run on the gravel Mavora Lakes road — it coped but it wasn’t nice (could have been the headwind…).

I’m planning one or two more 3 week tours on it (New Zealand again, and then maybe Sri Lanka) but am trying to work out whether in the long term I should just upgrade the parts, or actually invest in another bike. It’s a lovely cycle though — I’d really recommend it, although if you are looking for a real round-the-world workhorse it might be worth looking at some of the more established models. 

No bike is without problems, it aint about the bike without blood, sweat and tears :-X

Hi Tom — Great site, very informative and helpful. I´m looking at setting up my first Touring / Expedition rig.

Wondering if you wouldn´t mind commenting on Santos Bikes out of Holland? I see they make some great looking touring bikes, but only in Aluminium.…I asked them why they dont do Steel and their reply was that the Steel / Belt Drive combination is not good, ie to flexible and that the belt will wear just as fast as a regular chain, therefore, they go with Aluminium?? Any comment. Also, thoughts on the Belt Drive in Combination with a Rohloff Hub??

I´m looking at a go anywhere, do anything rig…2 week tours in Europe and RTW adventures. 

Thanks if you can help me out and keep up the great work 🙂

Hi guys, spoilt for choices,the steel v ali debate?? V brake or disc??Santos i havent seen but if its dutch id expect its a good bike, like koga who use aluminium for rtw touring(a reason people like ali is light for air transit, and it wont rust like steel) but can be a harsh ride,so invest in a suspension seat and a brooks saddle,backside will thank ya..Roholf or mech?? Roholf belt drive i have met a tourer using and he was happy with it, expensive combo but if it rolls for 100,000klm and comp have good rep. As it comes to preference and trail n error..I a bit like yourself wanted a rtw expadition bike. I got a thorn ripio frame which i then built up myself …doing that i chose my best spec bits xt tubus fsa brookes ergo etc( finding good reductions online) and most important get to know how it goes together ..useful as often u must rely on yourself to fix the problem and keep those wheels rolling:-) i like steel frames as they flex and are more comfortable with luggage…frames i would say are worth considering are as mentioned by others, surly lht , thorn and an excellent other is onone.…another option is to find a good old used bike/steel frame i.e 90’s atb/mtb models by specialised, trek, orange and upgrade as reqiured. Invest in strong wheels if offroading full loaded and good tyres, schwable marathon xr are excellent and after 20,000 klms they still got tread. A final thought an expensive shiny touring bike looks great to the owner and a theif, to protect my ride i wrap the frame in old inner tube and tape so protecting frame from damage and making my pride and joy look like a dirty ol ride! Thats all folks:-)

Thanks for the contribution!

Sadly the Schwalbe Marathon XR was discontinued years ago now 🙁

Hi tom and troops„, yeah the xr was too good „buy once product, found early originals recently 2 in holland…(where else.. for any tourers holland is ur candy store). So what u rollin on these days??? p.s u on a tour??? Bon route:-)

Not right now, no. But I have my own stash of XRs for when I am 🙂

Hi Tom, very interesting article. My wife and I are looking to buy touring bikes. We would use them in Europe initially — we have a small child who will be with us on a seat so we’ll leave Africa and Asia etc for a few years. I was thinking of a Genesis Croix de Fer , 725 reynolds probably rather than the expensive 931. What are your thoughts? Versatile but do you think they fall between two stools. Thanks, Mark

The Surly long Haul Disc Trucker not only Ticks all the Boxes but you will only ever need to purchase this bicycle Once No need to upgrade this bicycle will be perfect and last a lifetime of Touring wherever your dreams take you Go for the 26 wheels far stronger and gives you an extra gear on steep inclines happy cycling

Sorry, Now I have seen that you have an article about the Tern Link P24 and touring with a folding bike. My suggestion was totally redundant.

But no less appreciated! Thank you for a great summary (and much a much broader one than mine!)

Thanks Tom for all your great articles. I think that folding bikes are a serious alternative for long-term touring. Certainly less sturdy but have many advantages, easy to carry on planes or busses if needed or into hotel rooms and tents for added security. They are getting better with more reliable frames, even with full suspension (Reise und Muller birdy touring) and all the best specs up to Rohloff and dynamo hubs. Small wheels are not good beyond tarmac or good dirt tracks but there are a foding bikes with 24″ and 26″, though I will go for 20″ as a perfect balance between comfort, stable handling and still compact size when folded, bearing in mind it may nor be the best option to do the Pamir highway or crossing the Andes. There are some models speced for touring with pannier racks, mudguards etc. Tern link P24, Dahon MU with alfine 11 and the awsome Birdy. Worth considering.

[…] reading the reviews of Tom Allen and reading a bit about what is important in a touring bicycle, I became convinced that the Kona […]

Hello Tom, your website is amazing, well done! I’m about to undertake a long bike tour through Asia and Europe …unfortunately my budget is very limited. I think I will buy the kona sutra but I also saw this bike which I really like http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-us/bikes/model/anyroad.1/14819/66151/ Can you please give me some advice comparing the two models?

I will also convert the bike in an e‑bike with the golden motor magic pie conversion kit plus a solar panel . Do you think the conversion will affect the efficiency of the bike?

Thank you very much for the help Vince

Hi Tom, Great article thanks! I bought a 2008 Ridgeback Panorma World Tour in 2011 and I have loved every moment on it. It’s the old BMW grey model. I have been an occassional cyclist for much of my life but it was only when i got this bike that it really made me want to do more and more miles. We have done the UK coast to coast and will be doing the Way of the Roses in the next few weeks; also did Penrith to John O’Groats when I met up with friends doing LeJog. It eats up the miles and has been bullet proof. Once it’s rolling it flies and the Deore gearing gets me up anything. If anyone is considering this model I wholeheartedly recommend it. I swapped out the saddle for a Brooks B17 and put Ortlieb panniers on it and both have been unbeatable performers. I only wish I could match them 🙂 Cheers Mart

i thank for this advice.this would encourage many of them to cycle.i to got encouraged. i have cycled about Km400 this is just the start,i think all cyclist belong to one family.

I’m planning on building a bike for a round the world adventure but I’m overwhelmed by the choices of frames! Surly, thorn, Kona… The obvious choice for a frame would be a Surly Long Haul, but the geometry doesn’t fill me with excitement. My dream bike and frame is the Santos 2.6 (It looks and feels more like a MTB than a tourer), but at almost £800 for the frame it’s way out of my price range. Flat bars or butterflys are a must for me as I really don’t understand this facination with dropdowns. Top of my list currently and within my price range is a Surly Troll. What are your thoughts about the troll as a world tourer? Should I stick with the tried and tested Surly Long Haul (although I’m not sure if the LHT geometry is ideal for flat bars) or go a bit leftfield and try the Troll?

getting ready for a st malo — malaga ride in the spring and am looking at the Specialized Awol:

http://www.specialized.com/gb/gb/bikes/road/awol

How would you say it compares with the Kona Sutra?

Fantastic website, btw.…

It looks like an interesting bike, if a rather specialised one (sorry) — almost a dirt-road racer with luggage racks, which I think is what Kona have tried to do with the Sutra (mistakenly IMHO; should have been a new model altogether). It looks like a bike for light and nimble loads rather than fully-loaded touring, with 32-spoke wheels and the 10-speed Sora chainset. I’d be very interested to hear a road test report if you do go with it.

Bob Nally!! You may think trying to advertise in here is a good thing which either makes you extremely clever or extremely stupid, which is it folks?? thanks for the info Bob but just encase your advertising here hadn’t noticed this is a about info, advice and camaraderie between true people that have cyling in their heart and you may (or may not) realise this, anyway. guys im a very short woman 4.10 so finding it very hard to find a touring bike to suit me (my mountain bike is 14 inches) but i’m finding it very hard to find something withing my price limit Tom and everyone else, I’m looking for a man’s tourer that can suit my height (I CAN NOT STAND THE LOOK OF WOMANS BIKES) lol so hopefuly I can have Tom or someone else to give me a tip on a “short ass” tourer lol

Does Bob Nally work for Ash Cycles, then? If so, he probably has cycling in his heart too. I’m pleased to hear about it if there’s a relevant deal on, though it would be nice if people disclosed their affiliations of course.

What’s your price limit, Pam? The 26-inch Surly LHT is available right down to a 42cm frame. After that you’ve got seatpost, saddle, stem and cranks to tweak the fit.

For anyone looking for a new bike AshCycles (UK) have the Dawes Galaxy Classic 2013 (and many more bikes) discounted to £879.95 with free delivery.

Thanks for pointing this out!

Hi Tom, I´ve been falling you for over a year and love the movie and the book. I feel like the world is telling me to move south–I´m in Colombia right now and I want to go to Argentina. I am looking into bikes to buy here, and it is very difficult to find aone in a place full of little people (I´m 193cm tall). But that is a problem that I can manage. 

Here in Bogota, these types of cargo racks ( http://bogotacity.olx.com.co/biciclta-panadera-iid-578339198 ) are very popular and they can definately hold a bunch of weight (they usually come in black). I know that there would be wind issues, especially with the front rack–but what do you think of mounting one of these on the back or possibly mounting on both the front and the back of a bike. I´m not too worried about speed but much more worried about control. 

On another note, I bought this from kickstarter ( http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/flykly/flykly-smart-wheel ) and when it is developed and shipped to me this summer, I plan to use it to get from point A to point B… I don´t know if it will work or not, the only downside is that I cannot change gears with it… We´ll see. 

On another note–can you recommend a book for learning how to repair/assemble a bike… 

Thanks in advance for the advice and I will probably have a hundred more questions in the coming weeks and months… Say hi to your brother Ben for me… If everything goes to hell in a handbasket, I might just fly to Lebanon in February for the big event.

Hey Wes… faced with a cargo rack decision like that, the only way to know for sure is to take one for a test ride. I think you’d attract a fair amount of attention if you did go with it! 🙂

The Park Tool website is the number one resource for bicycle repair tuition. I’m not aware of a specific book, though.

Drop me an email if you have any more questions — always happy to help.

Hi Tom, just discovered your website and am so inspired that my wife, daughter and I are planning a tour to Paris next year. Anyway…I have a Specialized Sirrus hybrid that to my novices eye seems to be similar to most of the touring bikes above. The only obvious difference being aluminum frame, flat bars and no racks etc. The components all seem similar. Would there be much point in changing to a tourer? Cheers.

If you can fit a rear rack to that frame, you’re good to go. Even if you can’t, a seatpost rack will do you from here to Paris. Enjoy!

Touring bikes are great if you need full camping gear. I rode a kona Jake the snake lisbon-istanbul, cuba etc, cyclocross bikes should be considered for light touring is.bivy sack and no cooking gear. Super fast, built strong to off road and just more fun and nimble to ride, if that’s your thing. I haven’t been carrying front panniers though, not sure how would ride. I’d encourage really trying to lighten everything up, gear and bike, more rewarding — but this does assume staying within a few hundred km of a store/restaurant/hostel although can be self sufficient for a few days.

Just love this site, ride on tom!

Thanks Yuri. I can count the number of times I’ve been more than a day’s ride from supplies on the fingers of one hand. Almost everyone could “lighten up” and go fast and nimble. I guess it depends on your priorities for being on the road!

Was wondering why you haven’t put any of the Thorn Bikes on your list?..Maybe the Sherpa would be a good mid-range,no? Ian

I haven’t read all the comments so I don’t know if it’s been mentioned (I’ll also hold my hands up here and say I work there) but if we’re talking mid-high end touring bikes then Spa Cycles are worth looking at — http://www.spacycles.co.uk there is now a steel tourer available which is competitively priced.

If we’re talking relatively small UK touring ‘brands’ then Thorn would be worth mentioning too.

Thanks Ben! I haven’t included Thorn here as they’re a bit pricey for the mid-range, but I’ll do so in a future piece on higher end tourers…

No problem, really enjoyed the film on Tuesday in Leeds. Has given me even more enthusiasm for riding the 270 miles home to Dorset for xmas in a week or so. 🙂

I did 6000 miles on my 2011 Cannondale CAADX. The Only upgrade was a pair of heavy duty handbuilt touring wheels a Son 28 Hub and some Schwalbe Marathons.…. I have to say it was the driest 3 month trip you could imagine so the lack of crap picked up to wear the Bike out was noticeable… The Only mechanicals, 2 broken cable and about 4 punctures. Get your bike looked over/serviced before you go and remember this, when you ride your bike normally, what usually goes wrong… I bet nothing.….

Hello Tom & thanks for your very useful and cheerful writings. I’m just getting back into bike touring, and still using my faithful 1977 Dawes Super Galaxy, nearly all original but with a re-enamelling job on the frame. Still pretty well perfect for my long but slow road trips. Brittany’s rolling country is a mine of varied and beautiful scenery : have you tried it? All the best

I haven’t been to Brittany since a school camping trip in 1999… maybe I should 🙂

Tom, you’d be very welcome! so yes, maybe you should! You have my e‑mail via this page, I imagine, so let me know if you’re over here & the Super Galaxy will be wheeled out! 🙂

Hi Tom I’m looking for a top end light tourer that’s very comfortable, capable of going as fast as a tourer can go and at home on Tarmac and on dusty tracks. I intend to carry minimal luggage too. How does the Van Nicholas Amazon (or Yukon) Rohloff compare to the Thorn Mercury? Which would you chose?

I’m sorry but I have absolutely no idea! The only way to know for sure is to ride both. It sounds like your requirements are quite specialised, whereas I’m only really intending to cover generalist mid-range tourers in this article. Sorry!

Thanks a lot for the article. The best I could find on the issue over the net.

My question is, did you get to try Kona Sutra 2014 already? I can’t find any comparisons ; 2013 vs. 2014 — yet there’s the huge change of frame.

I haven’t ridden it myself, but here’s my piece on the changes .

I’ve got a bit of a silly question : How should a touring bike “ride”? I’ve been on “racing” bikes forever and find them comfortable and fun to ride. I’ve been hunting for a touring bike and while they are comfortable to cruise around a bit, they seem far too upright for my riding comfort (makes me feel like I’m riding one of those cheap stationary bikes at the gym, on the first one I tried, I had to drop all the spacers on the stem to get comfy, but then ran into issues with the brake stop/hanger not clearing the head tube) and they feel a bit sluggish and hard to “toss around”, especially when out of the saddle on climbs, even in comparison to my light-weight steel mountain bike. I can see why ultra-low gearing is recommended if all you can do is sit and hammer up the climbs. Is that how it is supposed to be?

Hi Isaac I have recently ridden from Adelaide to Darwin on a Tout Terrain bike and I think there are several characteristics that make the touring bike the right one for you. You need to be comfortable if you are going to spend up to 10hrs in the saddle and the more upright positions of most ‘tourers’, seem to take the weight and pressure from your hands/ arms. Also, the touring bike should never feel “twitchy”, especially when loaded. My Tout Terrain rides the same when laden or un-laden and when you find yourself carrying 15kgs of water plus all other camping gear etc, the bike needs to be predictable. Many bike frames will twist when under a load; as a result, your control, reliability and comfort will suffer. I also like having handlebars that give multiple hand positions, which helps with fatigue. The other consideration is that you are an accomplished road bike rider. You are ‘familiar’ with this lower profile riding position and the road bike handling characteristics. This may be why every other riding position feels foreign. Load up a few different bikes including a road bike and try them out on a few long day trips. Consider the advice of others, but ultimately you need to enjoy touring and your decision should be based on what is right for you. As Tom advises, just get out there and problem solve. In essence, ‘touring’ is not a race and almost any bike can be used. You just need to select the one that feels right for you.

Cheers Mark — I echo these sentiments.

Have you tried riding one with a full load (i.e. 15–25kg luggage split between the front and rear)? A touring bike should feel reassuring and stable under such circumstances as it’s what they’re designed for. Riding them unburdened is not going to give you a realistic sense of the ‘ride’.

Cockpit setup is largely personal preference, I think. I’ve seen people touring on everything from upright shopping bikes to mountain bikes to racers with drops — it’s what you prefer. Personally I choose being upright and able to look at my surroundings rather than tucked down grinding away at the asphalt.

Tossing them around and hammering up climbs is not really part of the touring style — taking it slow and steady, especially uphill, is what allows you to reach the end of a day with a hundred k on the clock.

Hope that helps!

Bianchi Volpe

just wondering if a cheap tourer such as the Raleigh Royal or Revolution Country Traveller ’13 would be suitable enough for a first tour of say 3–4 weeks on EuroVelo network through Germany? have done a bit of mountain biking before, and am a commuting cyclist everyday but I don’t really know that much about bikes

Any comfortable bike will do you for 3–4 weeks in one of the most cycle-friendly countries on the planet!

I can vouch for the Revolution Country Traveller. For the money (£430.00 in the sale!) its a surprisingly comfortable and capable bike. Swapped the saddle to a Brooks but otherwise its been perfect.

I saw that the link for the Rocky Mountain Sherpa was broken. Here’s the new URL:

http://www.bikes.com/en/bikes/sherpa/2013

I am moving to Norway and want to get more into touring, would an 2005 trek 6500 mountain bike work for touring? Link to the bike http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/2005/archive/trek/6500/#

Any bike will work for touring if you’re determined enough!

You’ll just need to find a way of mounting a rack. Tubus do seatstay clamp kits for bikes like this. Your other option is a trailer like the Extrawheel .

Thanks for the guide. Think I’ll go with the surly long haul trucker. Why? Because I saw a girl with one on the train after she’d come back from an across Britain ride. So I wanted one!

Lo mejor es que a partir de la accin y de la memoria del equipo. Una vez instalado aprieta el botn de encendido que ven en la nube. Sabemos que Nokia ha lanzado un nuevo juego java para celular, es que HTC podr renacer y volver a reproducirlo. La informacin recopilada en nuestro sitio Hoy 9tres tecnologia y servicios estimamos los mejores del ao. Llegaron a descubrir la agricultura y la envia a la interconexin entre centrales 9tres tecnologia y servicios y pblicas. La interfaz es mucho ms fcil, pero me parece curiosa la decisin 9tres tecnologia y servicios de Acer de incorporar Windows 8 que posee? brujerias para enamorar a un hombre http://journals.fotki.com/watersbaxq/my-blog/entry/krbkbqdfbfrr/

Tom have a look at Thorn Sherpa I have one it’s great

Hi Tom, it’s that time of the year when all you want to do is load up your bike, jump on the ferry to France and just go wherever the mood takes you. It’s also the time when you just devour all the reviews and conversations about bikes and gear and destinations. I love it. I’ve had my Dawes Super Galaxy for over 25 years now. It’s the single best item I have ever spent money on and, if I had to get rid of all my bikes bar one, it’s the one I’d keep. I’m in awe of its Rolls-Royce levels of reliabilty, comfort and smoothness. I’ve ridden 10s of thousands of miles on it and it still rides like a dream every time. All the way across the Pyrenees last year; fully loaded, 900kms, 50,000 ft of climbing, horrific weather, faultless. If the new models are as good as the old ones (and they should be) then you couldn’t go wrong with a Galaxy.

Hi, I am not new to cycling but am to touring. I just purchased a Tout Terrain SilkRoad Frame with derailleur hanger (not getting the Rohloff hub version) and want to build it up with durable components. Plan on using drop bars, 26″ wheels, and cable disc brakes. I also like grip shift but don’t know if this is compatible with drop bars, or even if they are still made. Would prefer mountain bike components. Any recommendations for which components group (model year 2013) to get that would be true and durable. I hear Shimano XT is good and light but durability is not what it used to be. Any suggestions would be helpful. Thanks in advance. J

PS Cash is a factor but don’t want to sacrifice quality either.

Ideally you’d build an 8‑speed drivetrain from a mixture of components (8sp chains being thicker than 9sp and therefore longer lasting). Deore to XT ranges are durable and rugged. Beyond XT it’s about saving weight for racing, with durability sacrificed, so don’t go there. 

The rear derailleur will take more abuse than the front one. 9sp Shimano rear mechs work with 8sp shifters (at least, mine does).

Grip shifts are certainly still made but I have no idea about using them with drops…

Many thanks for your response Tom; the questions you wrote are certainly eminently practical and sensible.

Perhaps it could be assumed that 32 spoke set-ups are strong enough, given that Rohloff and the expedition bike manufacturers, who stake their reputation on reliability and longevity, use that set-up. Though, having said that, it seems Rohloff are now making a 36 hole hub (according to their website).

According to the Thorn website, spoke breakage was an issue; an issue they solved by drilling the spoke holes on the rim differently. Presumably Santos use the same technique as they also hand build their wheels.

You are absolutely correct in saying that the long distance cyclist should be able to repair such things as broken spokes and derailleur malfunctions (and etc). In terms of enjoying trips though, It’s much nicer if nothing goes wrong (ie Murphy’s law takes a holiday). As much as I enjoy servicing and working on my bikes (the mechanics are such “elegantly simple” bits of technology), I prefer the comfort of my own garage. For those reasons a reliable, strong and well prepared bike would be desirable — and that is an answer to your original question about “which bike?”.

Regarding derailleur and Rohloff gears — derailleurs have certainly stood the test of time, though newer sets with more gears may be more finicky than older versions. For that reason, and when the range of use-able gears is considered, the Rohloff hub is attractive (except for the cost — a 60000 km break-even point may not be achievable for many tourers). Interesting that you have heard of misfortunes with Rohloff hubs — I hadn’t, which indicates that I need to do more research. Perhaps a question to be considered here is, “why are top-end touring bike (and some MTB) manufacturers using Rohloff hubs?” Presumably the perceived reliability is a part of the answer to that?

Mind you, all the theorising in the world is still bound by practical experience. 4000 km into last year’s trip the drive train needed replacing (this inconvenience was my fault really, as I should have renewed the components before setting out — the bike was relatively new and I left the original equipment just to see how long good quality components would last). The chain and cluster were easily replaced, but I had to ride another 1000 km without the use of the middle chainring, until I was able to buy a suitable replacement. It was then that I started considering alternatives — a Rohloff hub is one possibility, perhaps also the gears at the bottom bracket, such as fitted to one of the Tout Terrain models.

Anyway, interesting discussion and I look forward to your assessment of the “upper” end of the touring bike market.

Thanks again

If it helps, the builders I’ve spoken with say that the 32 spoked Rohlof hub is stronger than a handbuilt 40 spoked tandem wheel. This makes sense when thinking about dishing and the inherent weakness it introduces to the wheel. The other thing, of course, is that it is easier to repair a broken spoke on the chainside of a Rohlof hub than on a dished wheel with a cogset.

This has been a very interesting discussion — many thanks.

In response to your original question about other brands that might be considered be considered; no one seems to have mentioned the Santos Travelmaster bikes, in 26 and 28 in sizes and in aluminium or cromo.

Now, if I may lead to a dilemma. In one of your responses you referred to a concern that a new derailleur gear system with 30 gears may not yet have been “proven” to be reliable for long tours (paraphrasing your response). That is a good point, borne out by my experience — my older 26 in MTB/hybrid has 21 gears (perhaps indicates how old the bike is) and has never needed adjusting, while my newer 28 in with 27 gears needs frequent attention. Even though I do all the servicing myself and can generally adjust the gears satisfactorily, it can be a pain spending time adjusting the gears while touring (I’d much rather be riding or photographing or sipping cappuccinos in a wayside café). This has led me to consider a Rohloff hub.

That leads to the dilemma. The Rohloff hub bikes (Tout Terrain Silk Road, Thorn Nomad, vsf TX1000 and Santos Travelmaster and possibly Gudereit are all under consideration) all use 32 spokes. I am nervous about dropping from 36 spokes. The theory is that, because the Rohloff hub does not require a “dished” spoke set-up, it is stronger (than the equivalent deraileur set-up). The issue is that I cannot find any info that states how much stronger. One blog mentioned that 26 in wheels are about 10% stronger than 28 in wheels (with the same number of spokes) — but what the 10% is “of” was not explained, and what the measurement of “strength” is was also not explained. Questions remain hanging — is a 32 spoke undished 26 in wheel stronger than a 36 spoke 28 in wheel, for example? What is the “hierarchy of strength” when considering 26 and 28 in, dished and undished wheels?

This leads, of course, to really basic questions such as, for example, “would a vsf TX1000 ( 28 in wheels with wider tyres) be as strong as my current 28 in with 36 spokes”? How much stronger are the Santos wheels with 32 spokes, given that they are hand-made? And so on…

So, if there is anyone who could shed light, with facts, on this dilemma, it would be very much appreciated.

As a final point, I wonder if the steel/aluminium frame issues is now a non-issue — an idea espoused by a metallurgist-cyclist when considering modern frames?

Many thanks

Hi Phil. Thanks for the detailed comment.

The main reason I haven’t included the Travelmaster here is because it’s a top-end touring bike, whereas in this article I’ve been focussing on mid-range bikes. I’ll definitely include it in a future article about top-end bikes, though, along with the other bikes you mentioned — thanks for bringing them to my attention.

Regarding hubs and spokes, I think that the important question here is:

“Would Rohlhoff hubs be fitted to top-end touring bikes if spoke-count was a real issue?”

I doubt it. I hear more tales of Rohlhoff internals failing than spokes breaking. Which begs another question:

“Is it easier to repair a derailleur system or a Rohlhoff wheel on the roadside?”

My money’s on the derailleur. That’s why I’ll keep using them over internally-geared hubs.

And instead of asking what percentage of extra strength 36 spokes gives over 32, I’d be asking:

“Am I able to replace a broken spoke?”

Because that’s what you’ll be thinking when a spoke does inevitably break 🙂

I’ve been using a VSF TX1000 for over a year & completed over 2,000 miles (fully loaded) last autumn through Spain & France on a variety of roads & canal paths… my experience has been very positive… the 32 spoke Rohloff & Son28 wheels show no sign of wear & are true as the day I got them????

Hi Tom! Any comments on the Brodie Elan: http://brodiebikes.com/2013/bikes/elan.php

I tested the Sutra but after trying both 56 & 59 could not make up my mind on what was the right size for me. I am 6 feet tall so I guess I might be somewhere in between. On the other hand I also tried the Brodie Elan 54 & 57 and the 57 felt to big for me… Thanks in advance for any feedback

I’m surprised that the Fuji Touring did not make your list. I’ve been looking around and it seems like a solid touring bike at a good price. 

BTW — I just stumbled across your site and I’m impressed! I’ll be back soon.

Hello, Tom. Why you advice only steel frame bicycles? There’s a lot bikes with alluminuim frame and fork. It’s lighter and easy to buy everywhere.

The main reasons are durability and for ease of repair. Steel has a much longer fatigue limit, and in case of breakage can be welded anywhere by anyone with basic welding equipment. Aluminium, on the other hand, needs specialist attention — in less developed countries this could mean going to an airport. Frame breakages are not uncommon on long-haul tours and that’s why most quality long-distance touring bikes are still made of steel.

Personally, I also prefer the ride quality of a steel frame; there’s a little more give over the very stiff ride afforded by aluminium. For long term comfort that does become noticeable.

For short and occasional touring, I have no doubt that most aluminium frames would be fine, though.

Tom, that old chestnut about a steel bike being welded anywhere by anyone is quite amusing. That is the theory. In reality it takes a skilled welder who has experience with bicycle frames to do that job properly. Yes, you might get a rough cut job to hold your frame together to the next port but on a loaded bike i would’t fancy it. And how many people do you know who have actually had this done in practice?

I do agree with you that the steel frame gives a much nicer and more comfortable ride and that such a frame has much better strength which are great reasons to get steel.

Lots. Including me (Yemen). Andy (India). Al (Sudan). Etc. There’s quite a list. Very common story on very long trips. The fact that any old welder can get you to the next port is the whole point. We all had steel frames and we all managed to continue riding.

On the other hand, I know several aluminium-riding tourers who ended up hitchhiking with broken bikes and then waiting around in cities for new frames to be couriered out because they couldn’t get them repaired at all.

Salsa , Rivendale , Co Motion , Koga Miata — if you looking for really nice touring bike. Expensive but for long run cheap — it is simple , you get quality what you pay for .….. Years back I on $ 400 sligtly modified Raleigh Tarantula MTB , ( now overhauled and equipt with top of the line comnponents still in use for trails in Rockies ) I did made trip from La Paz to Chile . Want to safe some money . It teach me ! Never ever I will make this kind of mistake again .…

Another bike similar to ones already mentioned is the Rocky Mtn Sherpa. I’ve been riding a 2012 model for 8 months and am pretty happy with it. Pros- 36 spoked wheels, 27 gears in a wide range, stiff frame. Cons- the braze on placement on the seat tube (the front derailler is attached between them), I’d like bigger chainrings up front, It doesn’t do well off-pavement.

Cheers, David. I wonder why Rocky Mountain haven’t fitted a rack to this bike — I know people can be picky about racks, but I do think touring bikes at this level should be ready to tour off-the-peg as well. Nevertheless, it certainly looks like a good option. Thanks for the addition!

I was looking at Jamis Aurora Elite 2013 (cannot find the 2012 anymore). However some reviews describe it as a “light tourer”. I understand the problem of the 10-speed cassette. But what would make it a *light* tourer.

A ‘light’ tourer would usually mean a bike that’ll carry some luggage on a relatively short paved-road tour, but probably suffer off-road and with lots of luggage in the long-term.

I have just purchased an audax cycle from my local cycle store (Surosa cycles in Oldham, Greater Manchester, UK) as they build their own frames.. and had it custom built with my chosen spec for a total of £1266 and it’s a very good bike with mudguards, and a heavy duty rear rack with rack bag and 56L panniers.. soon to have an addition of handlebar bag, and front rack and panniers and I’d feel happy to do some touring on that over any distance

That sounds like a good price for a custom frame and build. I’d be interested to know the spec?

People will choose their bikes according to all the factors mentioned by you, Tom, and by other contributors. For some, keeping costs low is paramount and for others, strength and reliability are the main considerations. I think there are also intangible factors such as each individual’s self image as a cyclist and the emotional resonance of one bike or another. I’m far from wealthy but I appreciate the inherent value of high quality engineering and get enormous satisfaction from assembling my own bikes. After much research and deliberation I bought a high quality European frame and a mix of German, Japanese, American and British components. The complete set wasn’t cheap but I did make a considerable saving compared with buying a similar bike off the shelf. I also bought a wheel truing stand and gauges, and built my own wheels. I wouldn’t claim to be an expert bicycle mechanic but the experience of assembling my own bikes has provided not only personal satisfaction but also great confidence for dealing with routine maintenance and potential problems while far from home. I don’t believe there is any one ‘best touring bike’ and I’m skeptical about such claims. The message I take from this section of your blog, not to mention many other bicycle related blogs and websites, is that bicycle touring is a growing phenomenon and that it is rich with variety, in both equipment and people. That is surely a good thing.

You are absolutely right; there is no one-size-fits-all solution. I can completely appreciate the process of building a bike up from carefully-chosen top-end parts (as I did myself in 2007), just as I can appreciate the idea of rescuing an old bike from a scrapheap and bringing it back to life (as I’m doing right now)!

Thanks for the very thoughtful comment!

Just about to buy the Ridgeback Journey for some UK touring — perhaps France too next year. I’ve been seduced by the Alfine gearing. Am I being wise?

In 2009 my Roberts Roughstuff (with Rohloff hub) was stolen in Bulgaria with only 2000 miles on the clock. So that I could continue my RTW trip, I bought a Drag ZX5 mountainbike in Sofia, with replacement Schwalbe Marathon tyres, butterfly bars and comfy saddle, plus front and rear racks, stand, fenders and the two components of my wireless computer that had disappeared with the Roberts. The first bike cost just short of £3000, the second (Sofi) cost £500 and has now completed around 18000 miles. I’ve asked myself many times, ‘why did I bother spending all that money in the first place?’ The BMC paid out £250 in insurance btw.

Hi Anne i followed your adventures on crazy guy, was epic. Were the gears on Sofi deore or lesser Regards Pete.

I have almost completed a round the world bike ride on a Koga Signature with a Rolhoff gear system. During my four years on the road i have changed tyres, chain, brake pads and the bike was serviced in Australia and Los Angeles. I am still running with the original rims, no broken spokes and the Rolhoff is bomb proof. The Koga in my humble opinion is by far the best bike on the market. Ive been on wonderful smooth highways, Australia, USA and dirt roads that you wouldnt take a Land Rover on in Patagonia and Bolivia but the bike has just kept going, ive done over 30.000 miles on with not one problem, it still has the original bottom bracket. If you want to ride around the world buy any bike if you want to return home problem free then buy a Koga Signature.

Hi Robert, I was offered a World Traveller today for €1200 (2013 with 500kms) although I’ll probable go for the Kona Sutra as I perceive it to have a broader and more efficient range of use and I have no plans for outside Europe. How did you find your bike on load touring, daily tasks?

Sorry mate, we are going to drop the http://www.8pedsls.com site. To expensive to keep up for the entire 4 years. 

http://Www.facebook.com/8pedals http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/?o=1&doc_id=11458&v=3Z

So we are now on fb. And crazy guy on a bike. 

I would put my vote for the BB7s. A mechanical system may require more pull on the lever than a hydraulic system it doesn’t have all the potential service issues. The BB7 are durable and been around for a while. The nice thing about the BB7 vs the BB5 is that both pistons are adjustable on the bb7 making the setup and adjustment easier. Also the 7 brake pads are bigger than on the 5 which would make you think it stops better. I can’t comment on the ease of finding pads since they are not on my tour bike but since the bb7 uses a Juicy style pad it may be more common. For me I always carry spare pads regardless of where I am. The sintered metallic pads will give you longer pad life…just make sure that your rotor is rated for a metal pad. 

The other nice pluses for disc setup is no wear on the rim from brake pads, better stopping power in bad weather/muddy conditions and if you break a spoke or come out of true your brakes are still fully functional. The downside however is more strain on the hub shell and if you bend a rotor it can be next to impossible to get it perfectly straight…and there is the advantage of having both pistons adjustable on the bb7.

Hi Tom, I’ve read about Thorn bikes before (specifically the Raven) — any views?

Also, I would be interested to know why drop bars are so popular. I find a more upright cycling position more comfortable so would probably choose bullhorn or butterfly bars, but hardly any bikes seem to have these. 

What’s your view on disc brakes? I notice that the Kona Sutra has them — does it not cause an issue when you run into maintenance problems, especially outside Europe? (I would apply the same logic to hub gears).

I ride a Raleigh Royal, which is fine as a sturdy budget option (£500).

Thanks for article, really really useful!

The reason I haven’t included Thorn is that most of their models are above the price range I was aiming for here. I’ve never ridden one, but I have been told by several people that they’re great bikes, and that the people who make them are quite obnoxious.

I’ve found drops to be comnfortable, but I never use the dropped part except for shifting. I would imagine that’s fairly normal. Instead I make use of the various hand positions available on the upper part of the bars, which is at a height comparable to other types of handlebar once you’ve raised it with spacers and an angled stem, such as on the Kona Sutra. You get a very comfortable and fairly upright position out of that arrangement.

Before, I used an adjustable stem and riser mountain-bike bars. Now when I sit on that bike I feel like I’m on a Harley Davidson with pedals!

Disc brakes — well, models like the Avid BB7 have been around now for long enough to prove their reliability in the long term. They use the same cables and levers as V‑brakes, the mechanism is simple, and they’re maintenance free, except for changing the pads, which you can carry with you. They last longer and are lighter than V‑brake blocks. They’re also becoming easier to find spares for outside Europe. If your fork has V‑brake bosses, you’ve got that option in case of a really unlucky breakdown or accident. So I think the risk is now a very manageable one.

Thanks for the budget bike suggestion — I’ll work that into a future article.

All the best!

Hi Tom, and everyone! I’m one of those lucky enough to be able to afford several bikes, so I can make some comparisons based on experience. If you live in the U.K. it is definitely worth looking at the Thorn bikes as they are just so well built and I can vouch for the ride being ultra comfy and smooth for long days in the saddle. If you look at their prices they seem to be expensive at first but on their website they often have amazing deals on bikes they already have built up. They are absolutely worth it and are designed by someone who really knows how to get touring DNA and experience into a bicycle. The Surly Troll is another great choice with even more versatility in the drivetrain area but rides more like an MTB ( which it is ) than the Thorns. A word of advice for those who are wondering how to carry stuff. get a Burley travoy, the trailer that packs up into a shopping bag. It is a game changer and can carry a lot.You can get the load off your bike with it and still have a rack and space for other gear on your bike frame. Sometimes you can park it and ride your bike ‘naked’ without being bogged down with gear. It is the single most amazing piece of touring gear I have.

Ooops! Forgot to mention about disc brakes. I’ve got both systems. I find that disc rotors need to be perfectly flat for good performance and once they get bent even slightly on a tour they don’t function as well and are a pain to straighten out. They also can squeal a lot. For the first reason I found V brakes better for serious touring. Even though the disc fashion is popular now, i wouldn’t go that way for touring and seriously, a good pair of V brakes will stop you just as well. Concerning hub gears. My Rohloff and Alfine units have given me ZERO problems and i mean zero plus they are weatherproof. Derailleurs are not . If you have good mechanical skills you(ll be happy with them but if not definitely go IGH if you can afford it.

A tip for straightening out a bent rotor is to use an adjustable spanner to grip the rotor at the warped point and then give it a few nudges back in the right direction. With a bit of care this’ll cure all but the most traumatic bends.

Thanks for the comment! I have heard lots of good stuff about Thorn, and I’m sure they deserve their reputation. I’d put them in the “top-end” category on price point, which is why they’re not included here. One day it’d be nice to try one out… (hint!)

Re drop bars: I wouldn’t want to tour without them, and I use them a lot, but especially when I have to ride into the wind. On any tour, there will be long hours, and sometimes days, when the wind is blowing head-on, and I’d go nuts if I had to be sitting straight up, catching the full force of the wind, the whole time. However, it’s important to note that not all drop bars are the same. Some bars are marketed as “randonneur” bars, and they allow for a wide range of positions, which is really important as you can change positions frequently and relieve tension on your hands, wrists, neck and shoulders. On my current bike, a Surly Long Haul Trucker, the stock (drop) bars are very good. I probably spend the most time with my hands on the top section of the bars, but it’s a blessing to be able to get right down into a crouch when I have to ride into the wind.

The Paul Hewitt Cheviot is a very good bike too.

Tom I think the comment that the 5 models you showcased are basically the same bike is spot on. Yes there are bikes with better components but the few that you chose will do the job. Its easy to build a $5000 tour bike and I have seen several. However at the end of the day I would prefer to have a tough as nails work horse that doesn’t mind another scratch or two. 

I laugh as I think that my wife’s tour bike frame, a steel Rocky Mountain Soul, was perfectly fine and yet was about to be thrown into a dumpster when I saved it. Put a fork on it for 75 cents from the reuse it center and then built the rest from bits and hand me downs of solid mid range mtb components. For a few hundred dollars I built a bike that has easily survived several hard tours. It took a little time and patience but in the process I learned how to fix just about everything on the bike. Not to mention the satisfaction of giving it a new life. Now I would never consider buying a new bike from a shop. There are just so many great used bikes that would make a perfect tour bike project. With the internet as a resource you can research just about every part there is. It however takes time.

One more little story. On our trip to India, one of our group bought a $100 bike off craigslist in Vancouver. We checked it over and and made sure everything was sound and then shipped it over. She rode it for a month on tour and then donated it to an orphanage. Think they were happy? It was a pretty special moment. Would I have ridden it around the world…maybe not but it served the purpose and then some. Sometimes its just not about the bike.

Hey Henric — thanks a lot for this perspective. 

I agree that renovating an old bike is just as valid as buying a new one. (In fact, that’s a project I’ve got on the go at the moment.) I do also think, though, that there’s room for everyone to have their own way of approaching the situation — a new bike might be what takes someone from a dreamer to a die-hard cycle tourer — and for another person, the love that goes into a rebuild of a completely unique vintage bike may achieve the same thing.

Thanks for your input!

I pulled an old green Chicago Schwinn Varsity off the trash when I was in High School, fixed it up and rode it for a long time. Last year I put new wheels and tires on it, and then had to replace the rear derailleur. This year I’ve put saddlebaskets on it and use it to go to work everyday, and am planning to take it on a short 200 mile tour this summer. The only gripe I have with it is that the original gearset doesn’t have quite a low enough first gear for the hills in Albuquerque, but when I get back to Chicago next week it should be just fine again. Absolutely reliable bike (though it’s really heavy at 45lbs without the baskets, close to 55 or 60lbs with the baskets)

Fantastic. That’s the spirit.

I love my Surly Troll.

A real work horse and rides suprising well both loaded and unloaded. I personally think it’s better than the LHT because it’s a great alrounder.

It does look good. Rear triangle & caliper positioning like the Sutra. Very flexible-looking setup!

I’m lucky enough to own a pair of touring bikes, a Thorn Sterling ( discontinued I think ) and a Troll, both built to my spec, with Shimano XTR v brakes ( I don’t like discs, squeaky, rotors too easily bent ‚hard to replace on a tour, and extra weight ), They are both fantastic bikes but with a different ride quality. The Surly is a bit more agile, rides more like a trail bike, but for putting on the miles when you are going to be riding seven or eight hours a day, the Thorn just cruises through it sffortlessly. It’s also one solid bike. Don’t believe i’ve ridden any another frame that is as comfortable as the Thorn for long days in the saddle. For those shopping for a tourer, I’d give careful thought to whether you’ll be on or off road. Both of my bikes can handle either but they both excel at only one.

For several years I have gone on a European cycle tour with my tent and cycled for a period of no more than six weeks. I have had a couple of good touring bikes which I upgraded the wheels to Mavic 719 and the gears to Shimano XT As I got older now 62yrs of age I decided to invest in a Thorn Mercury straight handlebars and a Rolhoff Hub including Disc Brakes the result is perfect my saddle is a Brooks B 17 the bike is a dream to ride 853 Reynolds Steel Stiff and flexible to enjoy many miles in the saddle As for the Rolhoff I could Never Tour with a derailleur gears again the Rolhoff is all they say it is German engineering at its best the people at Thorn did a first class job their manner appears firm but they certainly know their business and I am really pleased with my byclcle Thorns lowered the gearing to its maximum and I can climb most hills fully loaded if it’s touring on Tarmac with the occasional canal towpath I recommend the Mercury byclcle and with Swarbe marathon plus tyres your bike is bomb proof I am always amazed when cyclists talk about weight on a byclcle yes if you are racing but when you Tour a couple of kilos really makes no difference my only regret is I didn’t purchase a Rolhoff years ago not cheap but it will last you a lifetime and should you upgrade your bike you can transfer it to your next byclcle making the former into a single speed for training purposes as for disc brakes when I am fully loaded coming down a steep mountain side I know I can safer stop otherwise it’s possibly very hot wheel rims and possibly wheel failure it just depends on what kind of cycle touring you wish to do if it is traveling in south east Asia 26* wheels and no disc brakes but after cycling for over 50 years I believe I have finally found what works for me

Hey Tom. Just found your site. Thought we would say hi. We are in the midst of organising a lap around the world in 2014. For 3 years. Great site look forward to investigating it further. We r using 1 Surly lhdt, 1 world Randonneur $ 2 giant boulder bikes. Check it out under bike specs on out 8pedals site. Early days for us. 

Thanks! (Everyone else, check out 8pedals.com !)

Walmart sells nice bikes (really). I ride combined packed dirt (nation forest) roads and paved. I use a dual suspension 21sp MTB upgraded with wide seat and swept back handlebars, better tires. Racks and other acc. as needed. for $250USD you can replace it every 2 years, transfer the custom parts to the new bike and still sell the old one for $35. Thieves know its a cheap bike and don’t bother it, joyriders main threat. My current bike was a $89 model, but I installed wide range gearing in addition to the other modifications. Going on 4 years 8500 miles, frame still good.

re your comment “They’re all built primarily for paved roads, but could handle a dirt track or two if need be.“ I bought a Surly Long Haul Trucker for a tour that included hundreds of kilometres of gravel road, and it was fabulous. A key factor was to use fairly beefy tires (1.75”). The setup on the Surly allowed getting down on the drop bars for long stretches against the wind, but enough cushioning in the tires (and frame) to make rough sections comfortable. I suspect this would be true of most of the bikes you mentioned, as long as they have room for wide tires. There have been a few loose dirt trails where a mountain bike would offer better control, but the Surly has been an ideal compromise for most of my rides.

After perhaps 25,000 km of touring we lashed out and bought Thorn Nomad each, with Rohloff. These are a little heavy, but the most comfortable and durable bikes imaginable…the Rolls Royce of touring. We can’t speak too highly of the Rohloff hubs.…just fantastic. But then, we travel slowly and thoughtfully.….you might say “savoring the experience”.…too old to do it anyother way! Check out Thorn’s website.

i would agree with the above. The Nomad is like a two wheeled tank, bit heavy, but can carry loads and tackle almost everything thrown at it. Slowly and thoughtfully ? ……… i couldn’t have put it better.

Hey, Tom! Since I have come back from my first bike tour to Europe I decided to buy Kona Sutra but question about what sixe should I choose is too complicated for me. I am 6 ft 2 inch. Thank you.

Hi Alex. The best thing to do by far is to test ride the different sizes. But if that isn’t an option, my brother is 6′2″ and he has the 59cm model, which fits him very well, if that’s of any help.

i have no money what small improvements could i make to my cannondale quick cx 4 2012 to make it a little better for touring

I would start by going on a tour with it and seeing if you run into any issues — depending on what you’re doing, it might be fine as-is!

Was all set to go for the Kona Sutra 2012 after much research and your review for a 1000km trip in SE Asia followed by a coast to coast of Oz, but just seen the Dawes Super Galaxy for £1125 at Spa Cycles. Almost the same price as the Kona. Would be interested on your thoughts on the Super Galaxy. I don’t plan on carrying much weight if that helps.

I’ve never ridden the Super Galaxy, so all I can say is going on the specs on the website. They look very similar, although the Super Galaxy has marginally better drivetrain components and better tyres. On the other hand, the Sutra has powerful disc brakes, bar-end shifters and a stronger/more widespread 9‑speed drivetrain, rather than the Dawes’ 10-speed which I consider a downgrade rather than an upgrade.

I’d toss a coin, or take them both for a ride and go with your gut!

Quick update — several stores are doing the 2012 Sutra at a discount now, including the two links in the article above…

Hey Tom, I went with the Kona Surtra based on my gut feeling and it felt right when I test rode it. Thanks for the link to cyclestore and your advice. I did a 3000 miles plus tour of SE Asia quickly followed by JOGLE on a mountain bike which was blast, but very much looking forward to journeying on a proper touring bike. Should make things less laborious hopefully. 

Top website!

Have to say I was a bit surprised at your mention of ‘stupidly expensive’ bikes then trying to claim that £1500 is a mid-range price. Anyway I have a Dawes Ultra Galaxy Ti and love it!!!

£1500 is a mid-range price 😉

My wife and I have had our Ridgeback Panorama’s for a couple of years now and are really pleased with them. We would, however, agree with Mark’s comment about the brake pads/blocks. Fortunately, easily rectified with a better brake block compound. We find that, when fully loaded, the bike comes into its own with regards to comfort, response and stability due, I think, to the Reynolds 725 tubing.

I bought a Panorama for touring in the Alps. Testing around Rutland hills I realised the brakes weren’t even good enough for here, let alone 25mile descents. I swapped them for Tekto mini “V” brakes available from Spa Cycles for £25. More than enough braking power now, it made a huge difference.

Hi Tom, I followed your adventure to the Arctic. Good to see you passing on your knowledge. Both my DH and I have Koga Randonneurs and I love mine. He preferred his Dawes Super Galaxy that he had upgraded with the Koga multiposition bars unfortunately , it was stolen and never recovered. They come complete with dynamo for lighting and I have a gizmo to charge the I phone. Good to find your site again. Brenda

Thanks for the article. A bit disappointing recumbents are not mentioned, as these are hands down the best bicycles for long distances. The first question should always be: Do I have a reason for not choosing a recumbent?

I can think of several — price, availability and familiarity are the first three. 

I do appreciate all the arguments for the benefit of recumbents, but this article was intended to highlight mainstream mid-range options, and unfortunately recumbents are still a long way from being part of that. I’d love to run an article about them, but not until I have some first-hand experience…

Great article Tom, I suspect most of us spend too much money on our bikes. Its refreshing to see someone write about the mid-rangers. Rather than the “you need this bike with Rohloff, Son, Magura, tubus” that you read on most sites..

Too true. I’ve got an interesting article in the pipeline which will go even further in the ‘budget’ direction. Watch this space…

I’ve just completed a tour on my new Vivente World Randonneur 

It’s probably at the upper end of the middle for touring bikes, if that makes any sense. But for me doing heavy highway touring it is ideal. Strong, stable. The dynamo on the front wheel is excellent at charging up all my electronics.

As you said, a bit pricey, but a lovely looking bike — thanks!

Is it possible to put a dynamo for charging up a GPS and iPhone on the front wheel of a Surly LHT? Does it reduce speed much?

Go for it. I have done it and could not be happier. The reduction in speed is minimal.

+1 for the Ridgeback. Like you say, everything is a compromise and in the Panorama’s case the manufacturer has skimped on the brake pads the most. Happily this is easily fixed. Another slight annoyance was caused by the shifters, which needed the addition of brake noodles to route the gear cables away from the handlebar bag I added — couldn’t quite justify 105 levers with integral cable routing for a tourer. Top bike, highly recommend it!

Novara safari is a great and inexpensive tourer sold at Rei Cheaper then any of these by a large margin with butterfly handle bars Novara randonee is more in line with what is here Khs tr 101 very complete even includes clipless pedals.

Thanks for this, Andrew. I had a look at the specs of these bikes. As you say, the Novara Randonnée is a closer fit for this list of mid-range tourers, though I would still be concerned about the rear rack’s strength and the 10-speed drivetrain. It’s also missing fenders. Otherwise it looks like a good bike at a good price. 

I’d probably put the Safari in the ‘budget’ category rather than the mid-range, due to it having a lot of entry-level components. While that’s fine for short tours and commuting, I’d be concerned about its long-term durability on a big tour, where the aim is to reduce the likelihood of repairs and replacements.

The KHS TR 101 looks like a very capable road tourer — I’d like to see some real life reviews.

Thanks again!

Also love your site and check my rss reader for your posts daily such a inspiration keep on riding man :).

I’ve done short tours on my Randonee for years, and love it. Hildy (my Randonee) climbs hills like a madwoman and can haul as much cargo as need be quite handily. The bike will even handle mild off-road. I’ve long since worn through the stock tires, and replaced them with Schwalbe Marathon tires. 

I’ve replaced the rear rack, but I’m told by many that the tock rear rack is quite sturdy. (I already owned a pair of Tubus racks from my previous bike when I bought the Randonee.) This fellow rode from Florida to Washington State on a Randonee, and used the stock rear rack. 

I have an older Randonee that has a 24-speed drivetrain, and I have to say that I share your concern about the newer, 30-speed drivetrain. It seems odd that they would put a 10-speed cassette on a touring bike. However, I am pleased to note that they have gotten rid of the old STI shifters and moved to the more dependable bar-end shifters. If I had the spare cash, I’d have those installed on Hildy. 

The Safari looks like a fun bike for short tours that contain off-road components, but I’d worry about those disc brakes on tour.

I put a huge vote in for the Surly. I can say I’ve treated mine like a mountain bike on previous tours and it’s never been a problem. Its just built to take any punishment I fell like dishing out.

I have had negative experiences with an older Kona Sutra; however, it was with the former placement of the bb7 brake caliper and subsequent rear rack configuration with a huge bolt and spacers. It’d just sort of snap whenever we were running late, battling poor weather, or having trouble finding camp. Now that they’ve moved the brake to the lower chain stay, that problem is gone and the rack is likely as bombproof as the frame.

Yeah, that’s probably what prevented it from being taken seriously for so long — I’ve read some similar comments about older models. I probably wouldn’t have included it here a few years ago, but I can attest to its vast improvement in the last couple of years. Had an interesting chat with Kona’s designers in Vancouver earlier this year — they decided to redesign it from the ground up, rather than try to beef up a road-bike design as they’d previously done.

I had a 2007 or 2008 Sutra and one of the rear rack eyelets broke off during the first week of my very first tour. I finished the ride with the rack held up with bunch of zip ties. I was very disappointed with that frame.

A good bargain i.m.o. would be the vsf Fahrradmanufaktur TX-800 XT with 30 gears. handmade in Germany, complete Shimano XT-Group, Tubus Cargo and Tara lowrider racks (made out of Steel tubing, Magura hdraulic rimbrakes, a XT hub dynamo and a pretty good, rigid wheelset including some Schwalbe Marathon 47–622 reflex tires. There are Shops in GB too, in € it would be 1499,-. Of course, a sturdy steelframe and-fork.

Or, my ride of choice, the Surly Troll (mine is a custom-setup by myself, but the complete bike gets some good reputation too), more like a Offroad-Utility-Bike. (can be driven with V‑Brakes, Disc-Brakes, a Rohloff Hub, a normal rear derailleur or even singlespeed). http://surlybikes.com/bikes/troll The parts on the complete one wasn´t what i had in mind so i bought the frame and fork for 380 €

Thanks for the comment and suggestions!

The Fahrradmanufaktur looks like good value for money, as you say. I wouldn’t take a 10-speed chainset far beyond Europe, though — very new tech and with every increment comes a narrower, weaker chain, with spares almost impossible to find outside high-end bike stores. My first expedition bike was built with a 8‑speed rear mech for exactly that reason. Even a 7‑speed would still be stronger and easier to find parts for in most of the world.

The Troll reminds me of the Explosif I built from the frame up for off-road touring. Looks absolutely great if you want to build your own and ride a lot of dirt! Shame only a few stores import them over here in the UK.

Tom, and All Others, 

Can I ask for your opinion on the new Fahrradmanufaktur bikes? I was about to purchase one, but I’m a bit unsure for two reasons: 1) It has hydraulic brakes. Do you think that would require more (complicated) maintenance? 2) It’s a women’s frame. I haven’t seen many female frames among long distance touring bikes. Is there a good reason for that?

This is the original TX-400: http://www.fahrradmanufaktur.de/katalog/expedition?product_id=668

And this is the one I’m eyeing: http://www.ebay.com/itm/371133699189?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

Thank you, I would really appreciate your input on this.

Sofia, I’m a woman travelling around the world with the TX-800. The Magura hydraulic brakes don’t need any maintenance, just changing brake pads when needed (very easy, with a click). I have the male frame as I always had male frames in all my bikes and it’s what I’m used to. Another Spanish girl is also travelling around the world with the TX-400, male frame, and also happy with it. The advice the experts give is always the same, try to test both of them, male and female frame, and see how they feel.… Good luck!

Hi I bought the TX-400 last year and took it on 10 tour of Oman. It’s a really great bike! Very sturdy, and of course heavy but very easy to handle. My ony complaint was the company’s website. Everything is in German and they are very difficult to communicate with. Tried registering the bike using the website but couldn’t as it was in German. So a called them and emailed them a couple of times… again with no response. So my worry is that if on a longer trip I need to get spares, how could will their service be?

I guess it was many us who thought the same, as vsf fahrradmanufaktur have translated their webpage into English and Dutch… 

Regarding contact, our experience was totally different. We had a lot of doubts before buying the bikes, and although they kept telling us to contact the retailer, they replied most of them, even sending the bike documentacion translated into English, a list of spares,… Communication has always been in English.

As for their service, I had to use it twice in this trip, nothing serious, and it was very easy. I guess it helped that I was cycling through Germany at that time. They arranged for a shop in Leipzig to tight my cassette that had become lose, and they sent new pedals to another shop in Dresden as I wasn’t happy with the spinning of the ones that came with the bike. So far… so good. Hopefully I don’t need to contact them anymore!! 🙂

I’ve also got a TX800, it’s hugely strong and very well built, and will happily go anywhere a mountain bike will go, even when fully laden. It’s not the fastest bike but very reliable and robust. So far have only ridden the highlands of Scotland (including off-road touring) and a quick trip to Ypres plus 800 miles of commuting but the Zanskar valley beckons… 

To sum up this bike, think flat handlebars and fat tyres. Surly LHT, Dawes Galaxy, Koga typically have drop handlebars / skinny tyres, and will get you there quicker. The TX800 has a very upright position and quick (light) steering, ideal for circumnavigating rocky trails (like a Landover) but if you are the slow lad/lass at the back wanting to keep up then buy something skinnier.

This is a proper trekking bike, suited to carrying heavy loads away from tarmac. (And very reliable commuting, but not too quickly…)

Oh, and it comes in bright black and day-glo brown. It’s a German thing…

Believe it or not, an excelent touring bike is an old style Shwinn Varsity, 1982. With its steel frame, steel wheels, Suntour components, top-pull Diacompe breaks, narrow width drop handlebars, this bike is suprisenly stable and so well balanced you can ride no handed for as long as you like. Mine was a 25 inch frame, 27 inch tires. Tough long lasting and and inexpensive, I paid $175 used. My current touring bikes include crom-moly and aluminum, yet this steel Shwinn is probably my overall favourite

I have toured mainly in Europe always on Tarmac or the odd canal route my byclcle has been a Edinburgh Counrty traveler two years ago I opted for a Genesis day one steel frame bike with a Alfine hub I have since changed the handle bars to straights with bar ends this stopped the pain I developed between my shoulder blades after cycling 90 miles or more I also went to Thorns who fitted a Rolhoff 14 gear internal hub yes it was expensive however I must confess I would Never want to tour on a derailleur system again I appreciate the derailleur system can be easily repaired however the Rolhoff Hub has 14 distinct gears and it certainly does the job beautifully many of my friends who also tour and have cycled on both sets of gears now would not go back to a derailleur system my advice is you can cycle or your on just about any toe of byclcle Tom Allen has proved that but in life you get what you pay for I would personally recommend a steel fram touring bike good set of wheels Swarbe Marthon Plus tyres Bomb proof and a once in a lifetime investment purchase a Rolhoff the world then is your oyster and should you decide to later go for an expedition byclcle you can take your Rolhoff with you and transfer it to your new bike as it gets better with age

Hello we are currently cycling from Barcelona to Australia and using vsf tx400 fahrrad manufakture.the bike is great the only weak point do far are the tyres for us. We have it comes with schwalbe marathon mondiale which for us are not strong enough as we had to repair so many puncture. We think is a great bike and awesome value for money but just consider the tyres. ?

I bought my VSF 1,5 years ago from a dealer in NL, he says when buying from factory a lot of small adjustments needed to be done by him as the derailleur and that jizz wasnt properly adjusted, same i can imagine with the rear cog. I love how it is specd! Love the front dynamo light as it is bright as hell and the rear light stays on after stopping for a minute or two which is great regarding saftely. The frame (60cm for me) is not to stiff but very comfortable during my 10.000 K trip last year.. Also definitely a rear kickstand is a must, I have always had a centre stand but Rear kickstand has been amazing. I added an Andra Ryde rear rim that has proven to be bomb proof under load. I love the bike. But keep in mind that if you get rimbrakes or discbrakes it is impossiple to change after purchase as the frame is not compatible for both simultaniously.

I bought a Dawes Super Galaxy 2001 second hand in a fairly sorry state. I guess it was 30 years old then. I have ridden through Brittany on it 3 times and use it every day. I’m on my third set of wheels and it has had 2 complete drive train changes. I have been thinking about getting a new bike for 5 years but them I spend $100 on new bits and keep it going. Anyway, it was built to last. Don’t know if the new build quality is as good?

That’s the mark of a good frame!

I’ve picked up a 2013 Kona Sutra from bikes.com.au for $1200. The Dawes is now chained to the shed like the old dog out of Babe (sheep pig). I am loving the Sutra. I use it every day commuting and it is very comfortable. The saddle was hopeless but my old saddle suits the bike well. Anyway, thanks for the advice, think I got a bargain.

Sounds like an extremely good deal. You’re right about the saddle, but I can’t remember buying a single bike for which I didn’t replace it!

Hi Tom I have purchased a Genesis Day One with an Alfine 11 speed Hub To climb the Steeper hills I have changed from a 42 tooth to 38 front ring and an 18tooth on the rear Would this bike be suitable for European Touring can you advise please

Practically any bike is suitable for European touring, as long as it’s comfortable enough to ride all day. You’re never more than a few miles from a bike shop or train station if something goes wrong. I know people who’ve toured Europe on bikes from scrapheaps.

That is not budget.

…or VSF Fahrradmanufaktur TX-400 — either with Rohloff or not. https://www.fahrradmanufaktur.de/de/katalog/expedition-2017/tx-400-rohloff-speedhub-14-gang

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Best touring bikes: Machines for old-school, long distance riding

The best touring bikes to load up for the long haul or just for local load-lugging

• How to choose

The best touring bikes are designed to be loaded up for comfortable long-distance riding, but they're also a robust, reliable option for local riding with a load or just for commuting .

They're a bit old school now, with bikepacking being the trendy fast and light way to ride far, either on one of the best endurance bikes or the best gravel bikes . The availability and range of models reflect that trend, although touring bikes still offer a great way to see the world.

They're built strong, often with a steel frame and fork and have reliable wheels with plenty of spokes for strength, as well as a wide gear range, which may be via a triple chainset with a smaller range of "speeds" in the cassette or hub gear. Expect an upright ride position and comfortable touchpoints.

Luggage is normally carried in panniers and bags attached to a rear rack, often supplemented by a front rack, as well as a bar bag. Mudguards are also normal, making riding more comfortable in all weathers, while multiple bottle cages mean that you can keep hydrated even when you're far from a tap.

Below, you'll find our pick of the best touring bikes and below that is our buyer's guide to how to choose the best touring bike for you.

Best touring bikes: our picks

You can trust Cyclingnews Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

This Genesis touring bike option comes fully loaded, with front and rear racks, lights and a bottle cage, while its 35mm wide tyres give a comfortable ride. There's a Shimano Tiagra triple chainset, which gives a total of thirty gear ratios, which head below 1:1 for loaded climbing. 

Read more below

Another steel-framed tourer with many of the extras you'll need already there. The Kona Sutra has a high ride position and is equipped with a Brooks leather saddle for a retro touring vibe, although the disc brakes and wide gear range keep it up to date.

Yet another steel-framed option with front and rear racks and an upright ride, the Salsa Marrakesh has 3x9-speed gearing and mechanical disc brakes. Its 42mm Teravail tyres should provide comfort and grip wherever you travel.

Another long-haul steel model, the Disc Trucker has a very upright ride position thanks to its riser stem and yet more rise to its bars. A triple chainset that goes as low as a 26x34t ratio helps with long rides over steep roads.

With 42mm WTB Resolute tyres, the Marin Four Corners is a bike that can handle poor road conditions. The steel frame and fork are robust, while the triple chainset, nine-speed gearing and mechanical disc brakes should prove reliable. 

The Giant Toughroad takes a slightly different tack from most touring bikes, with flat bars, an alloy frame and carbon fork. Its 50mm wide tyres and very wide gear range equip it for off-road adventures.

Best touring bikes

1. genesis tour de fer 30, specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The Genesis Tour De Fer is a great option in this category. It's a top all-round bike, featuring a solid steel frame, durable tyres, disc brakes and all the practicalities such as three bottle cages, front and rear racks, mudguards and dynamo-powered lights.

Simply put, this is a bike ready for whatever you need to do straight away, whether it's commuting, leisure riding or touring. The bike offers an easy, calm ride, and is comfortable enough to get on and go right away.

35mm Schwalbe Marathon tyres come as standard, with their puncture-proof reputation. The Shimano Tiagra triple groupset gives you plenty of range including a sub-1:1 ratio to haul your loaded bike up the hills. You might need that range, with the extra features adding significantly to the bike's weight though.

2. Surly Disc Trucker

Another do-anything bike, the Disc Trucker features a sturdy and good-looking steel frame and fork. It is, however, more suited to road riding than exploring gravel and mud, though it's not to say that you can't tackle gravel tracks with it. The rise to the bars, paired with a long head tube gives a comfortable all-day ride position.

Mounts for three bottles, a pump, and mudguards add to the practicality, while the tyre clearance will let you get some meaty rubber in there. Surly quotes 2.1" tyre clearance on 650b wheels and the smaller frame sizes come specced with this wheel size for better toe clearance.

A Shimano Alivio MTB triple groupset with Sora road shifters provides steady and reliable 9-speed shifting, although it's quite a low end spec. Like the Genesis and the Trek, the Disc Trucker relies on TRP Spyre mechanical disc brakes for reliable, low-maintenance stopping power.

3. Giant Toughroad SLR 1

What do you get when you combine a mountain bike, a touring bike and a gravel bike? No, this isn't the start of one of your dad's jokes, you get the impressively capable Toughroad SLR 1. More suited to the offroad than any of the bikes we've looked at so far, Giant calls it a do-it-all bike capable of commuting, but make no mistake, it's built primarily for dirt and gravel.

There's no suspension fork, but the giant 50mm tyres are a dead giveaway. An 11-42 MTB cassette on the back will also help with tackling the steep stuff, although there's not the absolute range of the triple chainsets on the bikes above. Pannier racks front and back and three bottle cage mounting points mean you can pile on whatever you need to take with you.

There are plenty of modern features on the bike, including thru-axles, hydraulic brakes, and tubeless tyres. A reliable Giant wheelset and Shimano Deore groupset round off this bike. You might find the lack of variation in hand position with the flat bar configuration gets tiring on longer rides though.

4. Kona Sutra

The first thing to strike you about the Sutra is its retro features; the Brooks leather saddle and steel frame give a different look to many of the bikes we've looked at. Disc brakes and thru-axles remind you that this is a thoroughly modern bike, though.

It's another bike for touring and commuting on the road and on some gravel/dirt surfaces. Mudguards and front and rear pannier racks are included, while there are other bosses for more additions if needed.

The 10-speed Shimano GRX gravel groupset with Tiagra shifters gives plenty of range, although not as much as a triple like that specified on the Trek, while the hybrid hydraulic/cable-operated brakes should give a bit more stopping power than the TRP Spyre cable brakes specced elsewhere, they are more of a faff to maintain though. It's a classy-looking bike that can work well anywhere.

5. Salsa Marrakesh

A great-looking steel frame is the first thing to catch the eye on this bike, while the fat 42mm tyres give a signal as to its intentions. It's as comfortable off-road as on, whether you're touring, commuting or just riding for fun.

As with the bikes above, front and rear racks are included, though if you want to add mudguards, be warned that the wide tyres will need to go on a diet ­– down to a 40mm maximum.

It's a solid entry into the touring selection, even if it is a bit on the weighty side, however, though not so much that you'll be struggling under the weight. Components include a Shimano Alivio groupset with Microshift shifters as well as TRP Spyre-C disc brakes and wheels and tyres ready to be set up tubeless.

6. Marin Four Corners

The Marin Four Corners is part tourer, part gravel bike. It's got the clearance for really wide tyres on 650b wheels (which is the stock wheel size specced on smaller-sized frames), but you can also set it up for a more traditional touring configuration with 700c wheels.

The steel frame is bombproof while the long head tube gives an upright ride position so you've got plenty of visibility all around. There are mounts for a rack, mudguards and to lash extra kit to the fork legs, so you can load up to head into the unknown. It's a bike more geared to gravel than the road, unlike the more traditional tourers like the Kona and the Genesis.

7. Trek 520

Marketed as a bike for long-haul travel, the Trek 520 is the longest-running bike in Trek's stable, although its days look to be numbered. The 520 is no longer sold in the UK or US, but international buyers in some countries still have a choice of two specs on Trek's site, including the Sora/Alivio option above.

Like the Genesis, the Trek 520 comes with front and rear racks, although you'll have to add mudguards for all-weather use. Small updates include mechanical disc brakes with a thru-axle alloy fork, while the 9-speed Shimano Sora gearing provides massive range from its triple chainset, albeit with quite large jumps across the 11-36 tooth cassette.

It's also nice to see tubeless-ready wheels specced (although not the tyres), so you can set up tubeless, which should up dependability on long rides. 

How to choose the best touring bike for you

Whether you're looking for a practical way to get to work, want that extra durability so that your bike will stand the test of time or want to travel to far-flung corners of the earth with nothing but a tent and a change of clothes, a touring bike a great addition to your stable of steeds. 

You can still get around quickly – whether you're hitting the roads, gravel paths or other rough terrain – but plenty of space for mudguards and racks, as well as a more relaxed position, make a touring bike a better all-round option than a road bike, a hybrid or a mountain bike. 

The relaxed geometry and more upright riding position are also handy for commuting, and the best touring bikes are often built with durable, easy-to-maintain components so they can be fixed when hundreds of miles away from a bike shop. This lends itself to fewer mechanicals and lower running costs. Steel frames also have a far better chance of being repaired all over the world compared to aluminium or carbon fibre if you're on a big trip.

What types of touring bike are there?

Touring bikes can range anywhere from predominantly road-going bikes with horizontal top tubes and 700c tyres, to rugged mountain bikes with knobbly mountain bike tyres. 

What the best touring bikes tend to share, however, is a durable design, comfortable geometry and the ability to carry luggage. Some opt for bikepacking bags , which usually consist of frame bags and oversized saddle bags, whereas others opt for the traditional rack and pannier bag method of carrying luggage. 

As with any bike purchase, consider the riding you plan to do with the bike. For those looking to travel far and wide, a bike with more luggage-carrying capacity will be preferred. For those who are looking to travel off-road, look for a bike that can handle the rough stuff. Live in the mountains? Look for a wide gear range. 

What's different about touring bike geometry?

Touring bike frames feature a relaxed geometry , with a taller head tube and shorter top tube for a comfortable and more upright riding position compared to a racing road bike. In addition to this, they feature a longer wheelbase, which keeps the bike stable even when loaded with heavy luggage. Since they're designed to be cycled over long distances, they're equally designed to stay comfortable for as long as possible.

If you're a geometry nerd you may notice the trail is a little lower than you'd expect for a relaxed ride, but this is often done to counteract the slowing effect on the steering of a heavy front load to avoid the bike feeling like a barge when laden.

Which gearing should a touring bike have?

Gearing-wise, what you should pick really depends on what type of riding you'll be doing. If you're taking on hills regularly, then you'll want a cassette with larger sprockets on the back. Some touring bikes offer a triple chainset too, with easier gearing on offer compared to a double chainset. The addition of extra gear combinations into the mix will add an extra component to maintain, so those on flatter terrain might prefer a single chainring at the front.

The majority of touring bikes offer standard external gear systems – the chainset, chain and cassette we're all used to. Some do have internal gearing though, with an enclosed rear gearbox which requires a lot less maintenance and is less prone to damage but is heavier and will cost you more. Belt drives are also available – this is a multi-tooth belt instead of a chain, so no regular cleaning or lubrication is required. Hub gears like the Rohloff system are favoured by riders taking on huge worldwide tours for their durability. 

Should I look for rim brakes or disc brakes?

As with much of the cycling world, rim brakes and disc brakes are both available, with rim brakes found more often on lower-end bikes. Rim brakes feature two pads grabbing onto the wheel rims to stop the bike, while disc brakes grip onto a separate rotor on the wheels instead.

Disc brakes feature better and more consistent braking performance, which is useful for a heavily laden bike, and are better in wet weather, though. Both adjustment and maintenance are far easier with rim brakes, however, with an Allen key and some new pads all you really need.

Rim brakes will wear down your rim eventually, prompting a rim swap and wheel rebuild or a new wheel. Whereas that's not an issue with disc brakes, and there's more leeway to keep riding with a buckled disc brake wheel or a broken spoke.

Hydraulic disc brakes are generally maintenance-free in operation, however, if you snag your brake hose on a tree in the middle of the Atlas Mountains, there's little chance of repair unless you packed a bleed kit and spare hose. 

What should I look for in touring bike contact points?

Saddles are an important factor, being the main point of contact with your body. Padded saddles may look more comfortable but looks can be deceiving, with thinner padding usually better for you once you've gotten used to it after a few rides. Saddles should support your sit bones, and additional padding can move the pressure elsewhere and rub more, making things more uncomfortable over time.

If you're planning a long trip and already have a saddle that you like, it may be worth swapping out the saddle that comes with the bike, if you're not sure how comfortable it will be for the long haul.

On a multi-day trip, handlebars need to be comfortable as well. Some bars have a slight rearward sweep, which can feel more natural when riding on the tops. A shallow drop is likely to be more comfortable to use as well.

Which pedals should I choose?

It's worth choosing pedals wisely too. While the best road bike pedals give good power transfer, the best cycling shoes that work with them are difficult to walk in, which could be an issue if touring or even for a trip to the shops.

On the other hand, flat pedals may make it difficult to keep your feet well-positioned for longer rides. They will allow you to use standard shoes, which are easier to walk in, but unless the soles are relatively stiff, your pedalling will be less efficient and you may get foot ache after a long day riding without adequate support.

Gravel bike pedals are a good option, as they still let you clip in for more efficient riding, but the cleats are recessed on the sole of the shoes and so can be walked in much more easily. You'll need gravel shoes to go with them that accept two-bolt cleats. These will have soles designed for efficient pedalling and foot support, but most are not too stiff to walk in comfortably.

Alternatively, some of the best commuter cycling shoes also allow you to fit two-bolt cleats.

You can learn more about the pros and cons of two-bolt versus three-bolt pedals in our explainer.on Shimano SPD vs SPD-SL systems.

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Paul has been on two wheels since he was in his teens and he's spent much of the time since writing about bikes and the associated tech. He's a road cyclist at heart but his adventurous curiosity means Paul has been riding gravel since well before it was cool, adapting his cyclo-cross bike to ride all-day off-road epics and putting road kit to the ultimate test along the way. Paul has contributed to Cyclingnews' tech coverage for a few years, helping to maintain the freshness of our buying guides and deals content, as well as writing a number of our voucher code pages. 

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The best folding bikes 2024: versatile, compact and lightweight models reviewed and rated

Ideal for commuters and those lacking space, we select our favourite folders and offer advice on to how to find the right on for you

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The quick list

• 1. Best overall
• 2. Best e-bike overall
• 3. Best lightweight
• 4. Best value
• 5. Best budget
• 6. Best value e-bike
• How to choose

How we test

Best folding bikes 2024: Jump Menu

The list in brief ↴ 1. Best folding bike overall 2. Best electric folding bike overall 3. Best lightweight folding bike 4. Best value folding bike 5. Best budget folding bike 6. Best value electric folding bike How to choose How we test

There are plenty of reasons for choosing a folding bike. You might lack space at home, or need a two-wheeled friend for your RV trips or canal boat holidays. Your commute might involve train journeys, or perhaps your office doesn't have suitable storage. The best folding bikes can help with all these scenarios.

While you can of course use any bike for your daily commute, including one of the best hybrid bikes , a folding option can be the most practical. On some services, such as the London Underground and New York City buses, regular bikes aren't allowed at all. You also might be wary about locking up and leaving your bike unattended - a folder can typically be stored inside your workplace with ease. It might even fit under your desk!

But how do you decide which folding bike is right for you? Is weight important to you? Perhaps you're after an electric option? Maybe you're shopping on a tight budget? We've tested a number of the folding bikes to help you out and featured our favourites below. We've also compiled a guide, answering your questions about all things folding.

Best folding bike overall

Brompton's iconic model, the C Line, is easy to fold, carry and store. It's also great to ride, with several models available including the 6-speed Explore.

Read more below

Best electric folding bike overall

Utilising 20" wheels and suspension, the G4i delivers a comfortable ride alongside reasonable battery life and a low maintenance drivechain.

Best lightweight folding bike

The P Line provides all the benefits of a Brompton - reliability, ease of use, 4-speed gear system - in a lightweight sub-10kg package.

Best value folding bike

The Dahon Mariner seeks to deliver a practical, folding solution without the usual high price tag. Features include fitted rack and fenders making it commute-ready.

Best budget folding bike

The Tilt's low price makes it affordable but it achieves this without scaling back on features - you get fenders and 7-speed gear system suited to undulating terrain.

Best value electric folding bike

The Vektron's value is found in the quality of its components and accessories - a reliable Bosch motor and battery and fitted rack and fenders.

The best folding bikes

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

The best folding bike overall

Brompton's C Line Explore includes fenders for year-round protection

1. Brompton C Line Explore

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

World-renowned, UK-based brand Brompton is the market leader in the best folding bikes. There's one frame size, with a whole range of customization options. Customers can choose everything from the handlebar shape, frame material (which obviously affects the weight), number of gears, finishing kit and, of course, colour. Bromptos feature a traditional 16in wheel size and are famously quick and easy to fold.

With six gears we found the C Line Explore, to be the ideal folding bike for tackling hilly terrain - we also appreciated the fenders that protected out clothing from mucky road spray. Furthering it's commuter credentials, there is a front luggage block that lets you clip on a Brompton specific bag, available at an additional cost, and a set of durable and puncture-resistant Schwalbe tires.

The C Line weighs just over 12kg, which means it's not the lightest object to carry when folded up, but there are other options in Brompton's line-up if this is an issue, notably the 'featherweight' T Line.

Read more: Brompton C Line Explore full review

The best electric folding bike overall

2. Gocycle G4i

The Gocycle G4i neatly packages its motor and battery into a total weight from 17.6kg. Although that sounds a lot, the bike is easy to push around folded using its seatpost. It's also quick to fold, with a single hinge in its centre placing the wheels adjacent to one another.  

The 20 inch wheels and long wheelbase for a folder give the bike more of the feel of a full size bike, while there's suspension at the rear for extra comfort. All the cabling and the drivetrain and Shimano Nexus gearing are fully enclosed and should be low maintenance. 

There's a 250 watt front hub motor and 375Wh battery. Gocycle claims a range of up to 80km, although we didn't achieve more than 44km on our hilly commutes. We did find it delivered a smooth and comfortable ride, though.

Gocycle offers a wide range of accessories, such as fenders (mudguards), a front and rear pannier rack, integrated lights, lock holster and a travel case, making the G4i a good choice for e-bike commuting.

Read more: Gocycle G4i electric folding bike full review

The best lightweight folding bike

Brompton's P Line uses lightweight materials throughout

3. Brompton P Line

Brompton's P Line features a titanium rear triangle, which makes for lighter sub-10kg option to the original all steel Brompton, now called the C line, which will weigh in between 24.7 and 26.6lbs /11.2 and 12.1kg. During our testing we really noticed the difference, and while 22lbs / 10kg is still a fair amount to carry around for longer periods, the reduction in weight did make the P Line altogether easier to pick up and take with us.

Like all Bromptons it's nicely put together with umpteen clever little design hacks. We really liked the saddle up, roll-ability, not offered on previous P Lines, that allowed us to easily wheel it around a station concourse via the saddle and maneuver it around commuters during the rush to the train.

The four-speed gearing system is just as clever. It comes with an ingenious own brand two-piece derailleur which has been designed to fit inside the narrow fold. We did find however that the rear derailleur was a little fiddly to adjust and we'd have liked a smaller bottom gear, but both are relatively minor issues.

All told, we found the new P Line to be more practical, more 'pickupable', more maneuverable than before, which truly makes it one of the best folding bikes out there. 

The best value folding bike

Dahon's Mariner D8 comes with a rear rack as standard

4. Dahon Mariner D8

The Mariner D8 is on of US brand Dahon's most popular folding bikes, and with its all round performance, it's clear to see why.

The frame is made from the brand's Dalloy (an aluminium alloy) Sonus tubeset and it folds via Dahon's Lattice forged hinge with what it calls ViseGrip technology, which the brand says makes it a fast folder. It also helps keep the overall weight reasonably low. It's far from the lightest folding bike - that award goes to the Hummingbird folding bike - but at 27.69lb/12.56kg, it's far from portly. 

The 20in wheels and V-brakes may be of no particular brand, but the Mariner D8 gets an eight-speed Shimano Altus drivetrain, a great reliable and durable component, and a great find at this price point. 

Coming complete with a rear rack and full-coverage fenders/ mudguards, it's ready to commute or go shopping straight out the box, once you've undertaken the tricky task of assembling this website only purchase. 

It's one of the best folding bikes on the market as it does tick all the boxes of what to look for in a folder, but they're just rather small ticks. In order to reach this competitive price point, you are making compromises all around, with none of the Dahon Mariner D8 features really excelling. It's not particularly exciting, thrilling or stand-out-from-the-crowd beautiful. It just does what it says, and sometimes that's all we really want. 

The best budget folding bike

The Tilt 500 boasts a 7-speed drivechain for increased gear range

5. B'Twin Tilt 500

Folding neatly in half and at the stem, this B'Twin is a very competitively priced folding bike from sports giant Decathlon's house brand. It's an impressive option that's well priced.

The Tilt 500 features seven gears, comes with fenders pre-installed and the highly adjustable saddle height allows for sharing across riders of different sizes.

Obviously at this price point there are some compromises to be made in the finishing kit on the bike, and it's likely that you will need to replace brake pads more often than with other models. But coming with a lifetime warranty on the frame, stem, fork and handlebars, it has life long value. 

It's one of the best folding bikes on the market especially if you are on a tighter bike budget that won't stretch to a Brompton C Line or Tern Verge X11. 

The best value electric folding bike

Tern's Vektron features high-end components from Shimano and Bosch

6. Tern Vektron S10

We really rated the non-electric Tern Verge X11, so have complete confidence that the powered Tern Vektron will also be one of the best folding bikes on the market. 

This time the Vektron has slightly smaller 20-inch wheels, although these are larger than some folding bike models, like the Brompton, which are teamed with Schwalbe Big Apple tyres, and should provide a really stable and comfortable ride feel. 

The biggest deal with this electric folding bike is that it features a high-quality gold standard Bosch electric drivetrain, with a full charge that can last between 30 and 60 miles depending on the level of electric assist. 

The rest of this impressive folding bike is, as expected with Tern, specced highly with Magura MT4 hydraulic disc brakes and a reliable Shimano 10-speed Deore drivetrain. The as standard Atlas rack can haul 27kg, and is also compatible with a child bike seat.

With the battery, motor rack, fenders/mudguards and integrated lights however does come a weight compromise. Weighing in at 48.72lb/22.1kg it's probably one of the heaviest folding bikes on the market, which can make off bike manoeuvrability tricky, especially if there are stairs involved. 

Weight penalty aside, this is one of the best folding bikes money can buy, you'll just require rather a lot. 

How to choose the best folding bike for you

Folding bikes: what benefits can they offer you.

There are many benefits a folding bike offers. Here's a quick list of just a few of them:

• Ease of switching between cycling and public transport
• Stores easily in your home
• Peace of mind of not having to lock up the bike outside (it can sit under your desk!)
• Convenient to take on vacation - collapsible bikes are popular with RV road trippers and some can even be packed into airline luggage
• Most are built with durability and simple maintenance as the top priority
• No need to spend money on a bike rack for your car

What sort of folding bike is best for you?

There are many different brands offering folding bikes, and what might be the perfect option for one person may be the wrong one for another. Key differences can be found in folding mechanism, wheel size, weight and price.

Folding mechanism: A collapsible bike can be folded in a few different ways. Some styles are more user friendly than others, so it's worth seeing a bike in the flesh and practising folding and unfolding before you buy, particularly if you expect to be unfurling the bike in a hurry on a train platform.

Folding bike wheel size: Models with smaller wheels will be lighter and more compact when folded, but won’t gather as much momentum on the road. A folding bike with larger wheels will be much faster rolling once the wheels are up to speed - but will likely weigh more and will be a little more cumbersome to load onto public transport or haul up a few flights of stairs.

Lightweight folding bikes: If you intend to be hoisting the bike on and off trains, then it's understandable that you want it to be light. This can be achieved through using a lighter frame material. Brompton has introduced titanium to its range and there are brands, such as Hummingbird, making carbon folders. Higher quality components will also reduce the weight, as will opting for fewer gears - such as a singlespeed version - but this will only really suit someone who doesn't expect to come across many hills in their use of the bike.

Folding bike adjustability: Most folding bikes will be ‘one size fits all’, with a great deal of adjustability – meaning that it’s easy to share the bike across members of your household. However, if you know this is an important consideration, it’s worth ensuring that the model you buy offers a wide range of adjustment that’s easy to use. Brompton bikes, for example, have a long seatpost that is adjusted via a simple quick-release lever, making it easy to swap between riders.

Electric folding bikes: In the past few years, electric folding bikes have become a genre of their own. The addition of a motor usually makes for a greater overall mass, but weights are ever-decreasing and the additional power will make ascents significantly easier.

Are cheap folding bikes worth it?

While the saying 'you get what you pay for' mostly applies here, you can pick up a cheap folding bike, such as the B'Twin Tilt 500 and be pleasantly surprised.  A cheap folding bike will do the job for you - but you can expect it to be heavier than more premium offerings thanks to lower-end components and a heftier frame.

Finding the right option for you comes down to choosing which side of compromise to sit on.

Folding bike frame materials

As with any type of bike, there are multiple options when it comes to frame material.

Collapsible bike market leader Brompton specializes in steel – using its renowned high-quality brazing techniques to ensure that the frame welding provides the lightest yet strongest bond possible. Steel is resilient and comfortable – but it’s not the lightest and that's why Brompton started offering some titanium-tubed folders.

Aluminium is a very popular choice for its balance between weight and resilience - and also low price.

For those who really want to splash out, there are carbon-framed folding bikes such as Hummingbird's singlespeed, which comes in at 8kg. Although using carbon will make for a super-light folding bike, it's easier to damage than steel or aluminium, which is worth bearing in mind as many folders pick up a few knocks being hauled on and off trains.

Folding bike components: what to look out for

Because of what they do, folding bikes are popular among commuters who will opt for components that are easy to maintain and reliable.

Tough tires with good puncture protection are often high on the agenda. Fixing a flat is the last thing you want to do on your way to work. Schwalbe and Kenda are popular manufacturers of small diameter tires for folding bikes, and most will be 1.75-2 inches wide – offering a good level of grip thanks to a high volume and thus increased contact patch with the tarmac compared to traditional road tires.

Think carefully about the number of gears, too. For flat city streets, a singlespeed (just a single gear) will cut down on maintenance and overall weight. However, for riding hilly terrain there are folding bikes that come with triple cranksets and 11-32 wide-ratio cassettes. This will allow you to spin up gradients but will increase weight.

Many folding bikes feature hub gears – this means the shifting system is entirely sealed, cutting down on maintenance dramatically. Shifting on hub gears is often easier than using derailleurs for beginners, as there is no chain tension to worry about - you don't have to be pedalling to change gear. In addition, there's no derailleur to get bent or damaged, always a risk for a hard-working folding bike. 

If you want a wide spread of gears, a derailleur system is better, but less practical in the folding bike world.

Disc brakes are also beginning to appear on folding bikes, offering greater stopping power and control – especially in wet weather. They'll add more to the weight than rim brakes, however.

If you expect to be cycling in your office clothes and want to stay as clean as possible, chainguards and fenders are essential, while a belt drive can help keep muck off you and makes for lower maintenance. 

Pannier racks, a frame-mounted pump and integrated lights are all accessories that you can feel justified in expecting on higher-end models.

Electric folding bikes: the future?

The huge rise in popularity of e-bikes hasn't passed the folding family by. There's an increasing number of folding e-bikes and in the next few years we can expect to see that number grow even more.

Having an electric motor assisting your folding bike journey means you can commute without having to worry about getting sweaty in your work clothes.

Electric assist is also a perfect way of overcoming one of the drawbacks of e-bikes: their weight. They are relatively heavy for their size due to the extra rigidity that has to be built into their hinged parts. So although a folding electric bike will weigh more than a standard folding bike, you'll get a bit of help with your pedalling.

The lightest folding e-bike we’ve seen actually available to buy is the A-bike at 12kg, but most models are over 15kg and over 20kg isn’t an unreasonable mass.

As with any e-bike, have a good look at battery run times – most folding electric bikes can power you for about 50 miles. So if you're planning a mega commute remember to take a charger, or have one at both ends of your journey.

Where we've been able to link to a review, it means that we've put the bike through its paces. This means that we've ridden it over varying terrain and distances to assess it's performance across a range of factors. For folding bikes this means testing the folding mechanism for ease of use as well as the general suitability of the bike for commuting purposes - for example we consider how easy it is to carry and store.

Like regular bikes, we'll also consider the ride quality and the choice of components and how they impact key areas such as comfort, gear range and braking.

Where we haven't yet had the chance to review an item, we're still confident in recommending it as one of the best, because we either know the brand really well, and have probably tested another product or the previous version and can still happily recommend it as one of the best. 

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Michelle Arthurs-Brennan the Editor of Cycling Weekly website. An NCTJ qualified traditional journalist by trade, Michelle began her career working for local newspapers. She's worked within the cycling industry since 2012, and joined the Cycling Weekly team in 2017, having previously been Editor at Total Women's Cycling. Prior to welcoming her daughter in 2022, Michelle raced on the road, track, and in time trials, and still rides as much as she can - albeit a fair proportion indoors, for now.

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Folding Bikes

Best Full-Size Folding Bikes: Top 7 with Big Wheels

By Hannah Lang

Updated Dec 06, 2023

This post may contain affiliate links, which help to keep Discerning Cyclist rolling. Learn more .

We’ve all heard the buzzwords: ultra-light, zippy, compact, sleek – and it’s easy to agree that today’s folding bikes deliver. What a pleasure it is to throw your ride on the train, or in a car boot early one morning, and explore the world on your doorstep.

For those of us not blessed with the smoothest of roads, folding bikes can feel a bit of a dud. All it takes is one pothole and those twitchy fourteen inch wheels go shooting off in all directions.

Many cyclists also take issue with the increased rolling resistance that a small wheel generates, or the bolt upright riding position of your standard folding bike .

Luckily, there are a range of newcomers on the market with much bigger wheels. The models reviewed here have wheel sizes hovering around 24″. They offer the burliness of a bike with full-size wheels with the practicality that a folding mechanism brings. Just like their standard equivalents, they’ve been designed for a range of uses – touring, mountain bike trails, road ride, city cycle paths, you name it.

Below, we’ve take our pick of our favourite available right now, and answered a few common queries about folding bikes.

8 Speed gears

Bickerton Docklands 1824 Country Bike

Perfect for commuting and leisure riding, just lift and carry.

9 Speed gears

Tern Joe Tour

Folds down small, so it’s built for multi-modal touring.

10 Speed gears

Helix Standard

The standard spec uses the latest bicycle industry standards such as 12mm thru-axle and direct mount chainring.

21 Speed gears

Montague Bikes Urban Folding Bike

A folding bike with standard 700c wheels that delivers road performance on a budget.

27 Speed gears

Change Folding Hybrid Bike

With a lightweight 7005 aluminium frame and carbon fork, it is the perfect weight and size for your commute, with the added bonus of being able to fold away!

7 Speed gears

Basis Hybrid Folding E-Bike

The Basis Hybrid depicts the harmonious combination of a neat and compact transport or storage solution, and a full sized hybrid bike with the urge for adventure.

Ancheer Electric Folding Mountain Bike

Adopts ultra-lightweight yet strong aluminum.

Why Do Most Folding Bikes Have Small Wheels?

The main reason most folding bikes have small wheels is portability. Smaller wheels means a bike can fold down compactly , and so be stowed away easily in homes and on public transport.

Small wheels are also lighter than full-size wheels. In a market where models are often ranked on their weight, it pays to make your folding bike as easy to lift as possible.

Can You Get a Folding Bike with Full-Size Wheels?

You can absolutely get “full-size” folding bikes. When we talk about “full-size” bikes, what we often mean is a wheel diameter hovering around 24 to 28 inches. The tiny Brompton might be the industry standard, but there are, in fact, hundreds of models on the market with larger wheels.

Many full-size folding bikes look and ride just like regular bikes. You’ll also end up paying the same amount. All the bikes we’ve mentioned here range from three to four figures.

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Best Full-Size Folding Bikes [Top 7]

• Bickerton Docklands 1824 Country Bike [ REVIEW ]
• Tern Joe Tour [ REVIEW ]
• Helix Standard [ REVIEW ]
• Montague Bikes Urban Folding Bike [ REVIEW ]
• Change Folding Hybrid Bike [ REVIEW ]
• Basis Hybrid Folding E-Bike [ REVIEW ]
• Ancheer Electric Folding Mountain Bike [ REVIEW ]

Best Folding Bike with Big Wheels

1. bickerton docklands 1824 country bike.

Prices are approximate

• Weight:  13.9 kg
• Wheel Size:  26”
• Folded Size:  44.5 x 93 x 82 cm
• Gears:  24-Speed

True Riding Comfort

Easy to Fold

Compact and Lightweight

Even the wobbliest of cyclists can recognise a Brompton. Over the past thirty years, the brand name has become almost as ubiquitous as the bikes themselves: a catch-all for anything that folds.

Yet, while perhaps the most iconic, Brompton wasn’t the earliest model on the market. Two years after man had put men on the moon, engineer Harry Bickerton couldn’t believe he still paying an extra fare to lug his full-size bicycle on the train.

His solution?

The Bickerton Portable, the world’s first folding ride and built in his garden shed.

These days, Bickerton Portables is less of a Wallace and Gromit affair, but has lost none of that early pioneering spirit. The Docklands is a comfortable and confident set of wheels. Its light step-over frame makes it a far cry from those commuter bikes Harry found so unwieldy – and the robust Schwalbe tyres mean you can roll the cycle paths for miles before worrying about a puncture.

We like the 8 speed gears, and the retro styling: the leather seat and industrial aluminium pedals are a carry-through from Bickerton’s long heritage.

The Docklands 1824 does lack mudguards, which may put off cyclists wishing to use those full-size wheels on winter rides. Otherwise, it’s a worthy and well-established frontrunner.

2. Tern Joe Tour

• Weight:  16 kg
• Wheel Size:  27.5”
• Folded Size:  46 × 95 × 87 cm
• Gears:  9-Speed

Folds in seconds

Extreme gear range for loaded hill climbing

Hoping on the Eurostar with your bike, tents and a head full of adventure.

That’s the dream, isn’t it?

Yet, for those of us without square miles of garage space for gear, the idea of bike-packing can feel a very long way off.

Thankfully, there’s the Tern Joe Tour, an impressive randonneuring bike that can be folded to fit a train, plane,  taxi  or your pokey apartment hallway in seconds.

The Tern’s most impressive asset is, of course, that chunky luggage rack. It’s ability to haul up to 25kg of gear makes the bike a stand-out option for spontaneous, multimodal trips. It supports all full-size panniers, meaning you’re not locked into Tern’s own-brand accessories range either.

It’s built-in rear and front lamps make touring much easier. They throw out beams of up to 19m, and with a Joule 3 dynamo, you’ll be generating your own juice as you ride. No scrambling about for batteries in your sleeping bag.

The Joe Tour also comes with the added reassurance of hydraulic disc breaks. It’s 9 speed hub means you should be able to tackle most hills fully-loaded.

In sum, it’s a genuinely enviable choice for anyone who prizes spontaneity and adventure. It’s only available in the UK currently, but keep your eyes open for an introduction into the US and European markets.

Folding Bike with 24″ Wheels

3. helix standard.

• Weight:  10.9 kg
• Wheel Size:  24”
• Folded Size:  58.0 x 63.5 x 23.0 cm
• Gears:  10-Speed

Smallest folding bike in the world

Helix’s founding story is a uniquely twenty-first century one.

The brand began as a Kickstarter scheme, producing a limited run of these robotically-welded, laser-cut, titanium bikes for its supporters.

Now a fully-fledged brand and regularly sold out, it’s quite possibly the smallest folding bike in the world. We’re impressed that Helix haven’t compromised on spec to achieve these dimensions.

With a ten-speed Shimano derailleur, 24-inch wheels and sharp disc brakes, it reportedly rides like a road bike twice its size.

Ultra-lightweight  (tipping the scales at 19lbs) it’s also great fun to take around the city. Those big wheels can roll even when the bike is collapsed, meaning it can be pushed along pavements and station platforms.

Science buffs will also be interested to learn that they’re riding the only bike ever to be welded in an argon chamber. This allows for a far greater control over temperature and humidity than in your standard workshop.

Anyone wanting to get their hands on the Standard – or its even lighter sister model – might have to practice a little patience, though. Although Helix ship to practically every country, the Canadian-made bikes are out of stock until late 2022.

4. Montague Bikes Urban Folding Bike

• Weight:  13 kg
• Wheel Size:  29”
• Folded Size:  36” x 28” x 12” cm
• Gears:  21-Speed

Delivers road performance on a budget.

Provides ample gearing for hilly roads

Like we’ve said, a fourteen-inch wheel sometimes feels like a bit of a lost cause.

Whatever’s gained in portability is lost in mornings spent disappearing down potholes and skidding over loose gravel.

The full-size Montague Urban has been designed with this frustration fully in mind.  Montague have fitted their folding ride with satisfyingly knobbly twenty-four-inch tyres. Not only will they take you over the dodgiest of urban terrain, they should make the bike a pleasure to ride on country roads.

The 21-speed Shimano gearing also stands out in a market crowded with 8-speed competitors – and it’s not the only nod to the fact we don’t all commute in the City. The built-in mud guards clearly come from a team who know the annoyance of arriving in the office with mud sprayed up your back.

We would’ve liked the designers to have shaved a little of the final weight, though. At 13kg, it might be a little too heavy to use on a multi-stage commute. However, with a rear mudguard, kickstand and compact folding size, it is practical enough to be your only bike.

Overall, an ideal ride for rural and semi-urban commuters.

5. Change Folding Hybrid Bike

• Weight:  11.7 kg
• Folded Size:  95 cm x 75cm
• Gears:  27-Speed

Lightweight aluminium full-size frame

Shimano groupset and Avid BB5 brakes

Try as much as you like. Sometimes, it’s hard not to get excited about a fancy spec sheet – and the Change Folding Hybrid’s is about as respectable as they come.

This all-dayer boasts carbon forks, 27-speed Shimano groupset and a sharp hydraulic disc brakes.

Oh, and did we also mention the carbon front forks?

Change clearly want to stand out from the crowd, and with the Hybrid they’ve done it. They’ve run it through ISO certification, and the team claim it’s the only folding bike on the market to have passed the MTB test, meaning it should perform beautifully both on and off road.

Visually, it’s as classy as the component parts. We love the jet-black finish, and the added bonus of a high-quality travel bag thrown in.

At one and a half thousand pounds, it is certainly an investment. And it’s worth remembering that if a hybrid ride is what you’re after, there are a load of excellent standard models out there at price point. However, if you need the  portability  of a folding bike, then the Change Hybrid is a no brainer.

It’s a sleek, modern get-around that’ll thrill even the most low-tech of cyclists.

Electric Folding Hybrid Bike

6. basis hybrid folding e-bike.

• Weight:  23 kg
• Wheel Size:  20”
• Folded Size:  99 x 99 x 50 cm
• Gears:  7-Speed

Provides unmatched transport solutions for city go-er commuters, public tranbsporters and park & riders

What’s the old adage? If you can’t beat them, join them. And when it comes to e-bikes, we’re inclined to agree.

The Basis Hybrid means you can arrive at the office just as spotless as that colleague who glides past you on the morning commute. Mounted to the Basis rear-luggage rack, you’ll find a 9.6aH battery which – when combined with the powerful motor – offers you three levels of electric pedal assistance.

Basis claim it can take you up to 30 miles on a single charge.

For a bike of this size, the charge time is pretty standard: 4 to 6 hours. You can leave it to charge during the working day and have more than enough power to get home.

The Basis also has a bright LED display and all-important disc brakes. Its relaxed step-through frame make it a perfect city bike, but weighing in at a hefty 23kg, it’s hardly the easiest to take on the Tube.

Basis is the in-house brand for the Sussex retailer, E-Bikes Direct and so can be bought through the UK government’s cycle to work scheme. At £899.99, it’s a relatively affordable entry-level e-bike boasting the added convenience a folding mechanism brings.

Full-Size Folding Electric Mountain Bike

7. ancheer electric folding mountain bike.

• Weight: 27 kg
• Wheel Size: 26”
• Folded Size: 82 x 102 x 23 cm

Perfect climbing ability

26 inch magnesium alloy integrated wheels with anti-slip resistant thick tire

The frame of the Electric Folding Mountain Bike is the stuff of science-fiction. Ancheer have done away with fiddly spokes – and replaced them with a five-knife integrated design. It’s a visually arresting choice – and a practical one too. Ancheer claim that their design provides unparalleled shock absorption. It doesn’t hurt that it looks straight out of The Matrix prop room.

The sci-fi element extends to the bold blue-and-white colour way, and the LED control panel.

For those planning to use the Ancheer off-road, the high-strength magnesium forks will also prove a welcome feature

In battery terms, the range of the Ancheer is not so futuristic. It’ll travel up to 28km on a single 8 hour charge – fairly standard for a bike of this size. We haven’t tested it, but reviewers say that the manufacturers were quick to respond when any problem arose.

With looks like these, just remember to invest in a good pair of locks.

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Holding the cards to perfect trail days Shuffling things up and dealing a royal flush of adjustability, capable handling, and a grin-inducing playful ride, Fuel EX is back and more ready than ever to tame any trail. It packs in longer-travel suspension to broaden the horizons of a trail bike into bigger terrain and faster speeds, with a lively character that begs to be let loose on the singletrack. From lacing lines through tight aspens, to rallying root lattices and barreling through berms, any trail, any way, Fuel EX is up to get down.

• Meet Fuel EX Gen 6

Our favorite Trek

Fuel EX proved itself a happy climber and descender. From slabs to roots and square-edge hits, the Fuel EX handled it masterfully. A damn fine trail bike right out of the box, no matter your riding style. – Vital MTB

• Read the review

Fuel EX is a masterpiece

Fuel EX absolutely devours chunky terrain while still retaining the ability to tractor up steep climbs. I have become convinced that a bike with long, stable geometry and mid-level travel really can provide the best of both worlds. – Freehub Magazine

Loves to ride fast, both up and down

Fuel EX is a highly adaptable bike that feels comfortable in a really wide variety of terrain, but doesn’t confuse itself for anything more or less. Bike riders, rejoice. – The Loam Wolf

Ready for anything

Fuel EX’s geometry feels ready for just about anything. There’s plenty of traction for climbing and a nice fluttery feel on descents, calmly smoothing out the trail chatter. – Pinkbike

That “juuust right” feel

Mino Link lets you quickly and easily tweak your geometry, so your bike is always tuned perfectly for the terrain and your riding style.

Slack or steep, the choice is yours

Install angle adjust headset cups (sold separately) to tweak the 64.5-degree headtube angle a degree steeper or slacker to your liking — all without impacting your bottom bracket height.

Business in the front, party in the back

Craving the nimble ride of 27.5˝ wheels but don’t want to sacrifice the speed of a 29er? No need to choose. Fuel EX is mullet-ready, just throw Mino Link in high, toss on a 160mm fork, and get ready to party.

Adjustable Leverage Rate

Easily adjust suspension progression with just a flip of a chip. Ride it in the Less progressive setting for a plusher feel perfect for rugged trails loaded with square-edge bumps. Flip it to More progressive when you’re riding fast, hitting big features, and don’t want to bottom out — or if you want to roll with a coil shock.

Sized for every rider Whether your head is above the clouds, or you stand at a lower altitude, Fuel EX’s huge size range provides an awesome fit for every rider. If you fall between XS and XXL you’ll be ready to saddle up with size-appropriate wheels and chainstay lengths for a ride that’s fine tuned to you no matter your height.

The slack and stable 64.5-degree head tube angle complements the longer-travel suspension for more confidence.

A steeper, 77.2-degree seatube keeps you perched for pedaling efficiency on long fire roads and quick, punchy climbs.

Longer reach compensates for the steeper seat tube, so you stay comfortable in the cockpit and ready for what’s around the corner.

Size-specfic chainstays give smaller riders more nimble handling, while taller riders get better front wheel traction on climbs.

New frame, new possibilities

Fuel EX’s new generation opens up possibilities for riders who want full customization. Broader shock compatibility allows for more aftermarket upgrades, like coil shocks. A larger 34.9mm seat tube accommodates larger, more robust dropper posts.

Non-stop suspension

Trek’s exclusive Active Braking Pivot keeps your suspension active while you’re braking (which is often when you need it most).

Clean and easy

Internal routing tunnels eliminate cable rattle and simplify maintenance along with a robust threaded BB. Bolt-on downtube and chainstay guards protect against rock strikes and shuttle damage while muting noise from the trail.

Stow it, don’t show it

Stash your ride essentials with in-tube storage on all models — both carbon and alloy. Included Bontrager BITS bag keeps all your odds and ends organized.

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The Fuel EX Family

Fuel EX Gen 5

With 130mm rear and 140mm front travel, Fuel EX Gen 5 dishes out more nimble handling with less weight, along with better components for the price and internal storage on carbon models. • 130/140mm travel • More nimble handling • Lighter overall weight • Better parts for the price • Internal storage on carbon models

Fuel EX Gen 6

With 140mm rear and 150mm front travel, Fuel EX Gen 6 gives you extra adjustability features and more stable handling, plus a more robust frame with internal storage on all models, including alloy. • 140/150mm travel • More stable handling • More robust frame • More adjustability • Internal storage on all models

Looking for something a little different?

Sometimes less is more. Top Fuel is a shorter-travel full-suspension down-country bike ready for all-day pedal fests. It’s just as happy hammering out miles on smooth-rolling cross country singletrack as it is dipping over the backside of the mountain to explore off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Want to go bigger? Slash is a long-travel trail bike that looks like a monster truck and rides like a magic carpet. It’s built for big all-mountain terrain, racing the clock on rugged enduro lines, and having a rip-roaring good time in the rough.

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15 Best Full-Suspension Mountain Bikes in 2024 – Top Models in All MTB Disciplines

Image source: cannondale.com

Full-suspension mountain bikes are the go-to for mountain bikers who want the ability to handle anything the trail has to offer. 

Finding the best full-suspension mountain bike is a highly personal endeavor, as riders have individual preferences, body shapes, technical abilities, and trails they use. 

As a result, a bike perfectly suited to one individual may be inappropriate for the next. So, to help you find the right bike as a new rider, consult a more experienced rider or the buying guide at the end of this article. 

This article will review 15 of the best full-suspension mountain bikes for 2024 and finish with a brief guide on choosing the perfect dual-suspension MTB. 

Best Full Suspension Mountain Bike Selection for 2024

1. Pivot Mach 4 SL Ride 2. Ibis Ripmo XT 3. Co-op Cycles DRT 3.3 4. Devinci Django A29 SX 5. Cannondale Jekyll Carbon 1 6. Diamondback Release 29 3 7. Pivot Switchblade 8. Alchemy Bikes Arktos 140 9. Yeti SB140 27.5 LRC 1 10. Orbea Occam H20 LT 11. Santa Cruz Tallboy 5 C R 12. Niner WFO RDO 2-Star 13. Marin Rift Zone Series 14. Juliana Wilder C R TR 15. Santa Cruz Bullit

1. Pivot Mach 4 SL Ride

• MSRP: $6,200
• Frame: Carbon
• Travel : 120mm (f) 100mm (r)
• Tire Size: 29 x 2.2″

Reasons to buy:

• Full carbon frame
• Fast XC tires
• DW-Link suspension platform

Reasons to avoid:

• Slightly heavier than the competition

Pivot is a MTB-specific brand with a range of high-value-for-money models. The Mach 4 SL Ride is their race-ready XC model.

This 29er trail bike has 120mm of travel front and 100mm rear from a Fox Float 34 Performance Step-cast fork and a Performance Float DPS shock. These impressive suspension parts offer plenty of support for riders tackling cross-country races or fast, flowy trail rides.

The groupset comprises a set of Shimano SLX M7100 hydraulic disc brakes with tons of stopping power and an XT/SLX 12-speed drivetrain with a standard 10-51t MTB cassette for climbing steep hills more easily .

The other notable features of this bike are a Fox Transfer Elite dropper seatpost for enhanced descending capability and rapid Maxxis Ardent Race EXO 2.2″ tires that maximize rolling speed for XC riding.

Overall, this bike will suit intermediate and experienced cross-country/trail riders who want to take their rides to the next level.

Buy from Mike's Bikes

2. Ibis Ripmo XT

Best all-rounder trail bike for fast, gnarly trails

• MSRP: $7,299
• Travel: 160mm (f)147mm (r)
• Tire Size: 2.5″
• Capable of enduro riding and days with lots of elevation
• Premium DW-Link suspension platform
• Very fast 
• Tons of grip
• Playful for a 29er
• Too much bike for light trails

The Ibis Ripmo XT is one of the industry’s best high-travel trail mountain bikes. Ibis are masters in designing top-level MTBs , and the Ripmo is a perfect example of their expertise in action, starting from the original version.

The Ripmo uses a Fox Float X2 147mm rear shock paired with a 160mm 38 Factory fork. These parts link with Ibis’ DW-Link suspension platform that simultaneously enhances climbing efficiency and downhill performance. 

This bike handles like a dream at high speeds on rough terrain. However, it maintains a playful edge that helps lend to the do-it-all persona. Ibis chose a high-performance Shimano XT M8100 drivetrain for this build, paired with 10-51t cassette and XT M8120 4-Piston hydraulic discs. 

The wheelset includes underwhelming Ibis S35 aluminum alloy rims and hubs wrapped in Maxxis Assegai 29 x 2.5″ tires on the front and back. The premium carbon frame also has space to run 2.6″ tires should you want to beef up the grip and comfort. 

Other design features that make this bike stand out include the modern progressive geometry that balances stability with an efficient climbing position and the coil shock compatibility for a more supple suspension feel. 

Don’t miss out on the Rimpo XT if you have a big budget and want a fast and fun trail bike with impressive capability all over the mountain. 

Buy from Jenson USA     

3. Co-op Cycles DRT 3.3

The best affordable choice for light trails and XC riding

• MSRP: $3,399
• Frame: Aluminum
• Travel: 140 mm
• Tire Size: 27.5×2.4″ (XS, S) or 29 x 2.4″ (M-XL)
• Progressive sizing 
• Affordable price
• Powerful 4-piston brakes
• Light for the price (33.5lb – M)
• Not enough room for a bottle

REI’s Co-op Cycles is known for its affordable and reliable bicycles across all disciplines. The DRT is their range of MTBs, and the 3.3 is the highest-spec model of the bunch and the best full-suspension mountain bike for beginners. 

The DRT 3.3 has a lightweight 6061 aluminum alloy frame with 140 mm of travel on the front and rear. The suspension includes a RockShox Deluxe Select+ shock and a RockShox 35 Gold RL Debonair fork. This combination performs well for the price range.

The groupset is all Shimano SLX/Deore, consisting of powerful four-piston Deore hydraulic disc brakes and a reliable SLX 12-speed drivetrain with a 10-51t cassette. 

All models of the DRT 3.3 use Co-op’s aluminum double-wall wheels. However, the XS and S models use Maxxis Recon 2.4″ tires on the 27.5″ rims, and the three larger ones use Maxxis Recon 2.4″ tires with 29″ wheels. These are relatively fast-rolling tires with a solid cornering grip. 

The spec of this bike is suited to light to moderate trail riding, perfect for beginners and riders switching from a hardtail. Add the DRT 3.3 to your shortlist if you want a solid performer and you value reliability at a reasonable price. 

Buy from REI

4. Devinci Django A29 SX

Best low-travel trail bike for fast climbing and moderate downhills

• MSRP: $2,999
• Travel: 140mm (f) 120mm (r)
• Tire Size: 29″ x 2.5″
• Split Pivot suspension 
• Powerful brakes
• Lifetime frame warranty
• Slightly heavy

Canadian brand Devinci is an expert in mountain bike design, and the Django A 29 is the premium aluminum build on the Django lineup. 

This short-travel bike is suited to riders who want a fast machine to thunder over bumpy trails and up climbs . The frame is an Optimum G04 aluminum alloy with impressive stiffness-to-weight characteristics, 2.6″ tire clearance, lots of frame protection, and internal cable routing. 

The bike’s suspension includes a 140mm Rockshox Revelation RC fork and a 120mm Deluxe Select+ shock. The Split Pivot suspension linkage enhances these parts by isolating acceleration from braking forces to increase grip and pedaling efficiency.

The Django has modern trail bike geometry that balances stability on technical routes with a natural and balanced climbing position. Additionally, you have a geometry flip chip for on-the-trail adjustments. 

Other notable features include the SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain with a 11-50t cassette and SRAM Guide T brakes with 200 mm rotors, and Maxxis Minion DHF/Aggressor 2.5″ tires. 

Consider this premium aluminum trail bike if you want high-end performance at a reasonable price. 

Buy from evo.com

5. Cannondale Jekyll 1

Best for aggressive enduro riding

• MSRP: $6,100
• Travel: 170mm (f) 165mm (r)
• Tire Size: 29 x 2.5″ + 2.4″ 
• Stable and balanced geometry
• Fast on rough terrain
• Proportional Response design 
• Guider pulley stops pedal kickback
• Slightly pricey for the spec

The Cannondale Jekyll 1 is an impressive race-ready enduro bike designed for stability on chunky descents at high speeds.

The Jekyll 1 is one of the best mountain bikes with front and rear suspension you’ll find at this price thanks to the innovative design features.

Cannondale pulled no punches with the Jekyll, incorporating all their top-end frame technologies to deliver a luxurious ride quality. Their Proportional Response design means the suspension is tuned specifically for each size, and the geometry of the bike changes to accommodate different size riders. 

Cannondale Jekyll AL 29 4 Review

Next, the four-bar suspension linkage isolates braking forces from suspension, improving pedaling efficiency and enhancing grip when you need it most. This system means your Fox Float Factory 38 170mm fork and Float Factory X2 165mm shock can perform better than they would individually. 

Another great feature of this bike is the Ai Offset drivetrain which delivers more tire and mud clearance while allowing for a stronger rear wheel.

For the groupset, you have a SRAM NX Eagle with a wide-range 12-speed 10-52t cassette, an X1 crankset, and SRAM Code RSC hydraulic disc brakes with 220/200mm rotors. 

Overall, this is an excellent bike, but it isn’t cheap. Consider the Jekyll 1 if you want a high-performance enduro bike from a big-name brand like Cannondale. 

6. Diamondback Release 29 3

Best for trail rides with lots of climbing and flowing descents

• MSRP: $4,550
• Travel: 140mm (f) 130mm (r)
• Tire Size: 29 x 2.3″
• Fast climber
• SRAM GX Eagle groupset
• Level Link suspension platform enhances performance
• Cables not fully internally routed

The Diamondback Release 3 29er is a mid-travel trail bike with excellent all-rounder characteristics and high-level features. 

Due to the aluminum frame material, Diamondback could choose higher-end components, including a full SRAM GX Eagle groupset with a 12-speed derailleur, 10-50t cassette, and Shimano XT hydraulic discs. 

The suspension system is the most impressive part of this bike. It includes a Fox 34 Performance Float 140mm fork and a Performance Elite Float DPS 130mm shock. These components benefit from Diamondback’s Level Link, which enhances pedaling efficiency, traction, and overall ride quality, making 130mm feel like 140mm. 

The wheels are a slight disappointment for a $4,500 bike. These include proprietary Blanchard alloy 28R rims and hubs wrapped in Minion DHF and DHR 29 x 2.3″ tires. These balanced tires help keep speeds high without sacrificing too much grip. 

All things considered, this is a fast and capable trail bike that suits riders who tackle long days in the saddle with plenty of elevation gain and a variety of trails. 

Buy from Diamondback.com

7. Pivot Switchblade

Best premium do-it-all trail/enduro bike

• MSRP: $6,400
• Travel: 160mm (f) 142mm (r)
• Tire Size: 29 x 2.5″ + 2.4″
• Shimano XT derailleur
• Bottomless feel
• Powerful Shimano SLX 4-piston brakes 
• Super efficient climber

The Pivot Switchblade XT/SLX is one of the most versatile longer travel trail bikes you’ll find, capable of tackling light enduro riding while maintaining smooth and efficient climbing ability. 

Pivot chose a 142 mm Fox Factory Float X shock paired with a 160mm Performance 36 GRIP fork for this build. The DW-Link suspension linkage enhances these components by boosting climbing efficiency and descending performance. 

The Shimano groupset combines premium XT and mid-tier SLX components with SLX four-piston hydraulic disc brakes. The cassette is Shimano’s widest 10-51t 12-speed, providing a massive range for climbing the steepest grades. 

One impressive thing about this bike is the compatibility with 29″, 27.5″, and mixed-wheel setup, giving riders several possibilities based on their favored terrain or the trail conditions. The stock tires are Minion DHF 2.5″ and DHR II EXO+ 2.4″ on DT Swiss M1900 wheels. 

If you have a high budget and you’re looking for an exceptionally versatile trail/enduro bike to crush almost anything that comes your way, the Switchblade could be the bike for you. 

8. Alchemy Bikes Arktos 140

Best Top-Tier Build

• MSRP: from $7,299
• Frame: Carbon 
• Travel: 150mm
• Consistent geometry across sizing
• 27.5″ or 29″ wheel compatibility 
• Lots of frame protection
• High-quality carbon frame

The Alchemy Arktos 140 is a premium trail bike with an award-winning frame and various customization choices available. 

This bike utilizes Alchemy’s Sine Suspension design which is a dual-linkage platform designed to enhance pedaling efficiency as well as traction and control on gnarly descents. The suspension includes a Fox 36 29 Factory Kashima 150mm fork and a Fox Float Factory Kashima shock.

The frame is Alchemy’s most advanced carbon fiber layup . The incredibly stiff frame has a triangulated rear swingarm, oversized suspension linkages, and compact design to enhance durability and improve suspension kinematics.

Like most of their bikes, the Arktos has an impressive build kit for the price, including Industry Nine 29 Enduro-S Hydra rims, a Fox Factory Transfer 175mm dropper, and Maxxis Assegai 2.5″ EXO and Minion DHR 2.4″ EXO tires. Choose between SRAM GX, X01, or Shimano XT 12-speed drivetrains at checkout. 

Overall, the Alchemy Bikes Arktos is a well-balanced trail option that performs well wherever you go thanks to the impressive design and componentry.

Buy from Alchemy Bikes

9. Yeti SB140 27.5 LRC 1

Best value dual suspension mountain bike for racing

• MSRP: $6,600
• Travel: 160mm (f) 140mm (r)
• Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.5″ + 2.4″
• Wicked fast 
• Lightweight carbon frame
• Switch Infinity improves suspension efficiency and support
• Struggles on steep descents

The Yeti SB140 is the brand’s medium-travel trail/cross-country bike designed for racing and huge days on the trails with lots of climbing. 

Yeti chose a 160mm Fox Performance 36 fork paired with a Performance Float X shock and linked by their patented Switch Infinity platform . This system allows Yeti to custom tune the suspension to match the bike’s intended characteristics; speed and agility.

The premium carbon fiber frame has an integrated hanger and axle, Boost dropouts, internal cable routing, and a press fit bottom bracket. Additionally, the geometry is stable and comfortable, thanks to a medium reach, a forward-biased posture, and a low bottom bracket.

This build kit includes an Shimano SLX 12-speed rear derailleur with a 10-51t cassette, a OneUp dropper seatpost (150-210 mm), Shimano SLX four-piston brakes, DT Swiss E1900 rims, and Maxxis Minion DHR 2.4″ and Assegai 2.5″ tires. 

Don’t look past Yeti’s SB140 if you have high ambitions and want a premium bike to help you fulfill them. 

Buy from Jenson USA

10. Orbea Occam H20 LT

Best full suspension mountain bike 2024

• MSRP: $3,999
• Travel: 150 mm
• Tire Size: 29 x 2.5″/2.4″
• Efficient climber
• Lightweight
• Comfortable 
• Balanced and predictable on most trails
• Top-level components
• Slow cornering 

The Orbea Occam H20 LT is the series’s best-selling build, with an eye-watering price matched by the exceptional design and specs . Agile geometry, progressive suspension, and 29er wheels mean this bike can handle all but the gnarliest downhill terrain.

The two-part linkage used on this bike enhances the performance of the individual components as Orbea tuned it to improve control under successive big impacts, making this bike capable of light enduro riding. 

The suspension is 140 mm front and rear, with a Fox Float X Performance 2-Position shock and a Fox 36 Float Performance fork. And you also get a OC MC20 Mountain Control Dropper post.

Orbea chose a full Shimano SLX groupset for buttery-smooth shifting. This setup includes a Shadow Plus derailleur, 10-51t 12-speed cassette, and a Race Face Aeffect 32T crankset.

Other notable features of this trail beast include the elite-level Maxxis Dissector and Minion 2.5″/2.4″ tires, Fizik Taiga S-Alloy Rail saddle, and Race Face AR 30c TLR rims. 

All things considered, this is a world-class trail bike with the price tag to match; consider it if you’ve got a high budget and want the best of the best. 

11. Santa Cruz Tallboy 5 C R

Best low-travel trail bike for downhill riding

• MSRP: $4,799
• Travel: 130mm (f) 120mm (r)
• Tire Size: 29 x 2.4″
• Suspension overperforms its rated travel
• Stable and predictable on descents
• Narrow tires

The Santa Cruz Tallboy 5 C R is a low-suspension travel trail 29er and the more expensive of the two aluminum models on the Tallboy lineup.

This bike is one of the most capable bikes in this category for downhill riding. Santa Cruz tunes the lower-link VPP suspension to deliver maximum support on chunky terrain , which is seen on its other models as well, such as the Blur. 

For a low-travel XC/trail bike, the Tallboy doesn’t ascend as well on technical terrain but can thunder up smoother climbs with relative ease. The suspension components include a 120mm Fox Float Performance DPS rear shock and a 130mm RockShox Pike Base fork. 

The groupset is SRAM NX Eagle with Guide T four-piston hydraulic disc brakes, which is typical for this price range, providing reliable performance. Additionally, Santa Cruz chose a Maxxis Dissector and Rekon 2.4″ for tires. However, the bike has clearance for 2.6″ tires. 

If you want the general characteristics of a low-travel aluminum trail bike that can ride on rougher downhill terrain from time to time, then look no further than the Santa Cruz Tallboy 5 C R. 

12. Niner WFO RDO 2-Star

Best for aggressive trail riding and XC racing

• MSRP: $5,449
• Travel: 180mm (f) 170mm (r)
• Tire Size: 29 x 2.6″
• Carbon fiber frameset
• Highly capable descender
• Balanced geometry
• Slightly underwhelming wheelset

The Niner WFO RDO 2-Star is an enduro 29er that handles aggressive riding and is surprisingly steady on rough downhill terrain. 

This trail bike comes at a premium price but easily justifies it with high-end components and innovative engineering.

The groupset is a full SRAM SX Eagle setup with SRAM G2 R Hydraulic Disc brakes, an 11-50t cassette, and a 32T crankset. In addition, the WFO RDO 2-Star impresses with a KS Lev Si Dropper Post that is always a welcome sight on enduro bikes.

The combination of a Fox 38 Float Performance GRIP EVOL fork and Fox Float X2 Performance EVOL shock is enhanced by Niner’s CVA (Constant Varying Arc) linkage. This system is stable and efficient while pedaling and highly supportive when tackling chunky terrain, making long days on the trail feel well within reach. 

The wheelset chosen includes Niner Alloy 30mm wheels and Schwalbe Magic Mary/Hans Dampf 2.6″ tires. Unfortunately, this wheelset is a little disappointing for an almost $6,000 bike. 

Niner chose predictable trail geometry with a longer, lower, and slacker setup that inspires confidence on descents without sacrificing comfort on climbs. 

This is a solid choice for trail riders who lean toward more aggressive riding. Add the WFO RDO 2-Star to your shortlist if you have a big budget. 

13. Marin Rift Zone Series

Best entry-level full suspension mountain bike

• MSRP: $1,899 – $4,859
• Frame: Aluminum or Carbon/Aluminum mix
• Travel: 130mm (f) 125mm (r)
• Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.35″ or 29 x 2.5″ 
• Excellent value 
• Tubeless-ready 
• Fast going uphill
• Efficient bike for long rides
• Off-brand crankset 
• Minimal frame protection

The Marin Rift Zone is the brand’s flagship full-suspension mountain bike. It falls neatly into the low-travel trail category, optimized for speed on climbs and flowy descents . This series includes the best full suspension mountain bike under $2000.

The low rear travel means the Rift Zone is efficient going uphill, at the loss of a bit of traction when tackling rough climbs. The slightly less forgiving suspension encourages fast, standing efforts up steep sections to stay as stable as possible. 

While descending, the Rift Zone is perfectly comfortable on light to moderate trails. As a trail and cross-country mix, this bike will be twitchy and lose traction on heavy, chunky downhill sections. However, it holds speed excellently on XC trails. 

Marin offers a 27.5-inch and 29er version of the Rift Zone, meaning you can select for maneuverability and acceleration or speed and roll-over ability from your wheel choice. 

If you’re a rider who loves flowy trail days with plenty of ups and downs, this efficient XC bike pedals like a dream. In addition, the range of affordable builds means you can choose the Rift Zone as your first full-suspension mountain bike. 

14. Juliana Wilder C R TR

Best women’s XC bike with trail capability

• MSRP: $4,899
• Travel: 120mm (f) 115mm (r)
• Lifetime frame warranty 
• Space for two bottles
• Women-specific build kit
• Lightweight and stiff build (28lbs)
• Rekon tires don’t offer enough grip

The Juliana Wilder C R TR is the more capable big sister to the regular model, featuring extra travel and a more robust build. It’s our pick for the best full-suspension mountain bike for the money. 

Juliana designed the Wilder to be a featherweight ripper, balancing the capability for fast cross-country riding and mixed trail riding . The frame is Santa Cruz’s Carbon C with excellent stiffness-to-weight characteristics, complementing this bike’s character. In addition, it has slack and long geometry for an XC bike, improving stability and handling on rougher trails. 

The Wilder C R TR build suspension components include a RockShox SID RL 120mm fork and a 115mm Float Performance DPS shock. These join by a single pivot Superlight platform that enhances rear-wheel traction and sensitivity on climbs and descents while improving overall pedaling efficiency. 

Other notable features include the proportional chainstay geometry for consistent qualities across disciplines, Maxxis Rekon 2.4″ tires, and an SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain with an 11-50t cassette.

Consider Juliana’s Wilder if you’re a woman who loves fast XC riding and tackling flowy trail days with plenty of climbing. 

15. Santa Cruz Bullit

Best full suspension electric mountain bike

• MSRP: $9,049
• Travel: 170mm
• Tire Size: 29 x 2.5″ + 27.5″ x 2.4″ (mullet)
• Plush and supportive suspension in any situation
• Relatively lightweight for an enduro e-bike
• Sleek integrated cabling and electronics
• Powerful motor
• Limited range
• Battery level reads in 20% blocks

The Santa Cruz Bullit is a mixed-wheel enduro electric mountain bike with almost unlimited capability but an eye-watering price to match. 

The 170mm of front and rear travel comes from a RockShox Super Deluxe Select shock and a ZEB fork. To enhance the monstrous ability of this bike, you have DoubleDown tire reinforcement on a 2.5″ Assegai front tire and a 2.4″ Minion DHR II rear tire. The wheelset comprises WTB ST i30 TCS 2.0 rims with SRAM MTH hubs to handle repeated jumps on an almost 50lb bike. 

SRAM provides an NX Eagle drivetrain with an 11-50t cassette and Guide RE brakes. These brakes come with appropriately massive 220/200mm rotors to help keep you safe on the trail, which is especially important with electric mountain bikes. 

The electronics are Shimano’s high-end STEPS EP8 mid-drive motor with 85Nm of torque and 400% assistance from four modes. The battery is a 630Wh unit that provides a modest amount of juice. 

Overall, this is the best electric mountain bike for the money that would be a joy for any enduro rider who wants the thrills of rough descents without the strain of uphills. 

All You Need to Know About the Best Full Suspension Mountain Bikes

As we stated in the introduction, choosing the best full-suspension mountain bike isn’t as simple as picking the best components. Mountain biking trails and dual-suspension bikes vary so greatly that it’s essential to know what you’re looking for before starting to search. 

The following section will cover some of the most important things to consider when choosing. Remember, you can purchase a bike that almost fits your requirements and make changes to the build kit to enhance or modify performance. 

The Type of Riding You Do and Your Technical Abilities

The type of trails and terrain you intend on riding is the most important consideration when choosing a full-suspension mountain bike. Selecting a model that doesn’t leave you feeling under or over-biked is crucial. 

Dual-suspension bikes fall into five broad categories that match the difficulty and characteristics of the trails. Of course, your technical mountain biking skills should also influence your decision. For example, if you’re a beginner to intermediate rider, you may want a slightly higher travel bike that will be more forgiving and make challenging trails feel easier. 

Cross-country (XC): 100-120mm travel

Cross-country bikes are built for efficiency and speed on long rides. XC racing demands efficient and lightweight climbers with enough capability to handle moderately bumpy trails.

Beginners should avoid XC bikes as they aren’t very forgiving and require a high level of proficiency. Juliana’s Wilder is an example of a wicked fast and lightweight XC bike. 

Trail/Cross-country: 120-140mm travel

Low to mid-travel trail/XC bikes are more capable and stable on chunky, technical trails while maintaining excellent pedaling efficiency for long rides with lots of elevation gain.

These bikes have less of a focus on keeping the weight low, instead favoring comfort, stability, and traction . The Orbea Occam typifies an all-rounder trail mid-travel trail bike. 

High-Travel Trail/Light Enduro: 140-160mm travel

The high travel trail category is a popular bike as it hits the sweet spot of efficiency and descending capability for many riders. These bikes open up most trails without completely swallowing climbing ability.

High-travel trail bikes are capable on all but the most extreme terrain but require technical proficiency when venturing onto gravity trails. The Pivot Switchblade is an excellent example of this style. 

Enduro: 160-180mm travel

Enduro bikes are the most downhill-capable bikes that you also use for riding uphill. The category arose from enduro-style racing, which records rider times on descents and not on the uphill sections.

This means manufacturers can maximize descending capability without worrying about pedaling efficiency and weight for climbing. These bikes can handle the roughest terrain but are overkill for someone who mostly rides light trails. Cannondale’s Jekyll is a solid enduro choice. 

Downhill: 180-200mm travel

Downhill bikes are built for one purpose; descending. These heavy-duty bikes are ultra-capable on the world’s gnarliest trails and bike parks. However, you better not plan to ride uphill on a DH bike. Instead, count on taking a shuttle or a lift back to the top. This article doesn’t include any DH-specific bikes, but the Santa Cruz V10 is a prime example. 

You may also like…

• Best Short-Travel Dual-Suspension Mountain Bikes
• Best Trail & All-Mountain Bikes
• Best Downhill Mountain Bikes
• Best Dual-Suspension Mountain Bikes Under $4,000
• Best Dual-Suspension Mountain Bikes Under $3,000

Which Wheels Should I Choose?

Wheels have a massive impact on how a MTB rides. Variable like wheel size, material, and design influence the ride feel. For example, you can choose a bike with 26″, 27.5″, or 29″ wheels, each of which has different characteristics.

The bigger a wheel is, the more speed it can gain and maintain. In addition, you get more traction and stability on larger wheels. In contrast, smaller wheels accelerate faster, are more maneuverable, and are lighter.

Steel, aluminum, and carbon wheels also have different properties, carbon being the lightest and stiffest but also the most expensive. On the other hand, aluminum wheels are cheaper but aren’t as light or stiff.

Finally, rim width is another consideration. Wider rims allow you to run wider tires or get more traction from your current tires. 

Which Tires Should I Choose?

Tires are the most influential component that you can change quickly and easily. Riders can choose different widths, tread depths and patterns, material thicknesses and characteristics, and between tubeless and tubed tires (if the wheels are tubeless-ready).

Tubeless tires are more puncture-resistant, can run lower PSIs for more traction and comfort, and are self-repairing. We also have a detailed tubeless tires guide you can read.

Lightweight tires are more susceptible to punctures but provide better ride characteristics and reduce weight. In contrast, heavier tires are more durable.

You can also choose tires that roll faster but offer less grip or super grippy tires that create more rolling resistance. However, too little traction will require you to ride slower to stay upright, so finding the sweet spot is essential.

Finally, the width of a tire changes the level of traction, comfort, and rolling speed. Narrower tires are lighter and faster but offer less traction and aren’t as comfortable. 

Frame Materials Explained

Almost all full-suspension mountain bicycles are carbon fiber or aluminum. Carbon is undoubtedly the best frame material if the price isn’t an issue. Well-manufactured carbon is super light, stiff, and strong, offering unbeatable ride characteristics. On the other hand, aluminum is much cheaper and reasonably light, strong, and stiff. 

There is also a limited number of steel and titanium bikes on the market. Steel is cheap, strong, durable, and compliant but is very heavy. Titanium packs similar characteristics and is lighter, but it costs more.  

It’s worth noting that a high-end aluminum frame with excellent components (like the Diamondback Release 3) will likely be cheaper and ride better than a decent carbon frame with low to mid-level parts. 

Sizing and Geometry

When searching for a full-suspension mountain bike, we recommend trying out a range of bikes in your size at a bike shop to find one that suits your body and riding style. As with any bike, the geometry is highly individual and will impact how you feel when riding in terms of comfort and stability.

Once you become familiar with a bike you like, you can use its geometry to compare it when shopping for a new one. Additionally, you can change stem length, saddle position and height, and handlebar width and rise to personalize a bike’s geometry to your body. 

Some bikes even have flip chips and adjustable geometry that lets you change the handling and overall performance on the go.

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About the Author

Jordan Grimes

Canyon’s New Lux Trail Is an XC Rider’s All-Day Mountain Bike

Updated geometry, improved suspension performance, and in-frame storage make the Lux Trail a solid choice for cross country riding and light-duty trail bike use.

Takeaway: The Lux Trail has the word “trail” in its name but this is not a trail bike. It’s a 120/115mm bike for XC-style mountain bike riding (vs. XC racing). The Lux Trail features improved geometry, longer dropper posts, a UDH hanger, and internal frame storage. This Canyon is best suited for the all-day cross country rider who likes a fast bike but wants slightly more travel and function for long rides.

New Geometry and Frame Features

The lux trail lineup, in the woods, who should buy this bike.

Eagle-eyed mountain bike fans perhaps noticed a very subtly different Lux WC under the likes of Loana Lecomte and Luca Schwarzbauer during the 2023 World Cup season. The main difference I saw on the race bikes is a much shorter seat tube. Immediately it had me pondering if a new Lux was on the way or if the team riders were on an exclusive “pro-only” variant of the existing bike. The answer is perhaps a little of both.

Canyon launched the updated Lux Trail and the new Trail model shares some features with the existing CFR race bike (notably UDH/T-Type compatibility). However, the new Lux Trail has a noticeably different rocker linkage that, Canyon claims, aids in a more progressive feel and increased traction and includes the shorter seat tube seen on the pro bikes.

Canyon Lux Trail CF 9

The updated Lux Trail sports 120mm (front)/115mm (rear) travel. But I won’t pigeonhole it into any single short-travel mountain bike category name.

While a Canyon media representative warned me that the Lux Trail is not a “downcountry bike”, riders accustomed to 100mm travel XC bikes might apply that designation. Yet someone who typically rides a 140mm or 150mm travel bike might call the Lux Trail an XC bike. Basically, the Lux Trail is an XC-style bike that is equally happy between the tape as it is on longer trail days.

Elephant in the Room

Let’s address the bike’s cable routing before getting into other details. The Lux Trail joins the ranks of bikes with cable routing through the top headset bearing.

In short, while I acknowledge that a racing number plate looks cleaner on the front of an internally routed mountain bike, it creates service headaches for riders and mechanics. I made peace with internal routing on road bikes—on mountain bikes, I would rather not have the hassle.

Canyon updates the Lux Trail with a few nice touches. Unsurprisingly, the platform sees a slacker headtube (by a half degree to 67°) and a steeper seat tube (by 1.5 degrees to 76°). This puts the Lux’s numbers in line with many modern XC bikes like the Scott Spark , Pivot Mach 4 SL , and Allied BC40 .

Another welcome change is to the seat tube length. As was noted by Dan Chabanov, the previous Lux model had a rather long seat tube (he was barely able to get his saddle height set right). The size medium of the new Lux Trail uses a 45mm shorter seat tube than the previous model. This allows compatibility with longer dropper posts and better adjustability across frame sizes.

As is expected for updated mountain bikes in 2023, UDH also entered the chat. This is another welcome change, even if you do not plan to use a T-Type drivetrain . Having an easy-to-source rear derailleur hanger is always a win if you travel with your bike or plan to own the bike for any length of time.

Canyon also adds in-frame storage to the bike and a nicely stashed multi-tool, all while maintaining two-bottle compatibility. I’m a big fan of storing tools on bikes. And Canyon executed it well on the Lux Trail—the multi-tool is placed neatly under the top tube for quick deployment.

The Lux Trail’s in-frame storage is easily accessible on the downtube. The space fits spare parts like a tube (or two), bigger multi-tools, a small pump, derailleur hangers, spokes, or even some snacks to be safely stowed and out of the way on long rides.

The internal storage cover holds a C02 canister neatly and rattle-free. Our test bike also came with a tool roll pre-filled with a tube and extra plugs. And there was enough room for me to fit a larger multi-tool with a chain breaker, a tightly packed second tube, extra Co2s, quick links, and tire boots—all with room to spare. Another nice addition is the tire plug kit stashed in the bar end plugs for trailside repairs.

The new Lux Trail sits alongside the existing Lux race bikes (like the World Cup CFR model). Canyon sent us the top-of-the-line Lux Trail CFR LTD model for testing. However, this model is currently not offered in the United States. For the U.S. market, Canyon is now shipping the CF 9 model. A CF 8 and CF 7 will ship in Spring 2024 as well as a more budget-friendly CF 6.

Priced at $5,800, the top-spec CF 9 bike in the U.S. ships with RockShox Select+ suspension, SRAM GX AXS Transmission groupset, and DT Swiss XRC1501 carbon wheels. So, while you won’t get quite the bling package I tested, it’s still get a very adequate bike. The CF9 hits a good balance of performance vs. price.

The $4,800 CF 8 uses a Fox 34 Performance Elite fork and Performance Elite shock, Shimano XT drivetrain, and the slightly heavier DT Swiss XRC1700 carbon wheels.

Canyon Lux Trail CF 8

The CF 7 ($3,800) and CF 6 (price TBD) step down to Fox 34 Performance fork but retain the Elite level shock. Both models have aluminum wheels and Shimano SLX (CF 7) or Deore (CF 6) groupsets.

Canyon Lux Trail CF 7

Canyon Lux Trail CF 6

Also, all bikes shipped to the U.S. market include a two-piece Raceface handlebar and stem.

I took the Lux Trail out for some cross country laps and a few more demanding downhills to see what the bike is all about. Starting with a trail system I’ve ridden for over 15 years, I easily got the bike up to full speed with confidence. After a few minutes (and a few clicks of rebound adjustment) I found my sweet spot and was happily flowing along.

On the first meeting with a particularly rocky and root-filled descent, the Lux Trail felt composed. The updated geometry improves the ride as advertised. The geo allows for a point-and-go riding style while staying agile when you must change lines.

I found the bike very easy to pop off the ground and be creative with line selection on the trail. And when you got a little too loose, the Lux has just enough suspension to not punish you for the sketchiness. The Lux Trail was even happy to pop off some natural jumps and get a little rowdy.

The bike’s suspension feels soft off the top (it eats up small bumps) and then ramps up deeper in the stroke to offer some support. But it remains reactive to rider input when getting a little more playful. This was especially noticeable when I took the bike on more demanding descents, sections I thought would quickly find the end of the Lux Trail’s 115mm rear suspension.

In short, that didn’t happen quite as quickly as expected. The bike certainly doesn’t feel like it only has 115mm of travel out back (and I took some lines that usually feel harsh on short-travel bikes). That’s not to say the Lux Trail won’t get overwhelmed if you push it too hard.

While the brakes are a touch stronger and the fork has slightly more fore-and-aft stiffness than on the World Cup builds, you notice the Lux Trail’s cross country tendencies when you push the limits. On faster, steeper terrain (where you want a little more control) the Lux Trail reminds you it's an XC bike.

But a big part of what makes this bike shine is its uphill performance—and on the climbs, this bike feels great.

Canyon claims that the Lux Trail’s new rocker linkage aids in traction on the trail. And I’m inclined to agree. Even during hard, out-of-the-saddle uphill efforts, the bike suffered minimal wheel slipping. The push to a steeper seat tube angle also puts you in a good position for seated climbs. I never really found myself sliding around, looking for the sweet spot of power and traction.

The test bike’s suspension features RockShox Twistloc 3-position lockout with Open, Pedal, and Full-lock modes. I’m usually a fan of three-position lockouts on XC-style trail bikes. Since I often ride to the trailhead, it’s nice to have a full lockout for the pavement. And for wide-open fire roads or smoother-flowing trails, the pedal mode is a welcome feature.

However, with the Lux Trail, I often left the suspension unlocked since the bike pedals so efficiently. If I knew I’d be climbing for a more extended period, I instinctively reached for the pedal mode. While I’m not sure I needed it, it certainly wasn’t a hindrance and I still welcome the inclusion of a lockout.

Echoing what Dan Chabanov wrote about the previous Lux Trail , the “Trail” designation for this bike is curious. Canyon is not saying the Lux Trail is a “trail bike” in the vein of its Neuron or Spectral platforms, the brand simply uses the word trail to differentiate the bike from its purebred XC Lux World Cup models. Essentially the Lux Trail platform is for XC-style riding more than it’s for XC racing . The Lux World Cup is a dedicated XC race platform for competition.

Luckily, mountain biking is long past the days of skittery and uncomfortable XC bikes. And cross country bikes with less than 115mm of travel are increasingly rare. The Lux Trail is the sort of bike I recommend to most XC-leaning riders. It feels sufficiently fast enough to race cross country, yet the Lux Trail maintains the ride quality and fun ride I like for longer (but still fast) days on the bike.

With the Lux Trail, Canyon created a bike that most cross country riders will enjoy. Whether you are an XC racer looking for a new race bike that remains fun outside the tape or a trail rider looking for a faster and lighter bike to complement your more gravity-focused rig, the Lux Trail is worth a look.

Trevor Raab is the staff photographer for Runner’s World and Bicycling , a CAT 1 cyclocross racer, and, occasionally, a product reviewer for the Test Team. He fits the typical “how I got in to bikes” story: his dad introduced him to mountain bikes when he was a kid, then he had a  stint as a skateboarder in high school, and since 2011 he’s been riding every sort of bike he can find.

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Best full-suspension mountain bikes 2024 – we put the top XC, downcountry, and trail MTBs to the test

Which full-suspension mountain bikes are the pick of bunch for XC, downcountry, and trail riding? We've tested the best full-suspension machines for whatever you ride

Best full-suspension trail bikes

1. best aggro trail all-rounder, 2. best for trail riding fun, 3. best for suspension performance, 4. best for trail agility, 5. best steel full-suspension trail bike, best full-suspension xc bikes, 6. best for racing, 7. best for rowdy cross-country courses, 8. best for cutting edge xc tech, 9. best for marathon racing, best full-suspension downcountry bikes, 10. best value downcountry bike, 11. best for downcountry racing, 12. best for aggressive downcountry riding.

• Full-suspension bikes explained

With technology and design around suspension linkages and frame design constantly being refined, the best full-suspension mountain bikes have taken over all disciplines of mountain biking.  

No longer reserved for gravity-orientated riders, we're seeing everyone from trail to XC riders adopting the best full-suspension mountain bikes as they offer a wealth of advantages including more traction, added comfort, and confidence when riding rough terrain.

Keep reading to find out our pick of the best full-suspension mountain bikes for three categories – cross-country , downcountry , and trail riding .

While these are the best full-suspension mountain bikes, you don't need to spend loads of money to get a great full-sus bike. If you are looking for great value bikes check out our best budget full-suspension bike guide.

Best full-suspension mountain bikes

Why trust BikePerfect Our cycling experts have decades of testing experience. We'll always share our unbiased opinions on bikes and gear. Find out more about how we test.

As the way most of us ride and the places we go to get our fix have become increasingly extreme, trail bikes have been getting more confident, controlled and tougher. That inevitably means they've got heavier too, but as most of them pedal so well it doesn't matter. I've tested a ton of properly awesome all-round trail bikes in the past year too, which makes picking a top five hard. I reckon you can't go far wrong with any of these options though.

Specialized Stumpjumper Evo Comp

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

If you want to read a more sensible account of why the  Specialized Stumpjumper Evo Comp  is brilliant you should read my full review. But while I'm chained to a desk following an injury, here are some Stumpjumper Evo vibe vectors you might not find elsewhere.

Yes, there is an alloy bike and it's really good for all the same geometry adjust, plush suspension, and 'lovable like a labrador' reasons as the carbon one is. It's a win if you don't trust carbon either. It is a lot heavier though and you get both a hop up from SRAM NX to GX  and  the carbon frame for not much extra cash on the Comp. There's no storage either.

What makes the carbon Evo stand out though? The fact you can play around with the geometry in several ways just with an Allen key and a few trailside minutes is brilliant. You can produce some properly radical results with it too, rather than just correcting the numbers from outdated to OK like some bikes. 

Specialized started the internal storage revolution and they still do it better than anyone else – I certainly haven't been able to fit three full-size sausage rolls into any other bikes. The whole bike from grips to tires is sorted as well and while they don't officially offer a lifetime warranty, Specialized customer service is ridiculously good. 

While not everyone agrees with me, I reckon the Evo pedals better than the standard shorter travel Stumpjumper too. It's still a bit soggier in feel than the stiffest bikes in the category, but then FSR suspension always has been and you never have to worry about climbing traction on it.

Most of all though it's just a really fun, forgiving, and friendly bike to ride on every ride. Maybe not the sharpest or showiest, but one that'll show you a damn good time every time. It'll generally bring you home less battered afterwards too, so you're fresh to go again the next day. The fact it's still in my workshop as a go-to benchmark months after I posted the review is a big thumbs up too.

Check out our full review of the  Specialized Stumpjumper Evo Comp .

Canyon Spectral 29 CF 8

I've gone for Canyon Spectral 29 CF 8, but to be honest, any of the massive Spectral family could have made the 'best full-suspension bike' cut. That's because the fundamentals of really well-designed and detailed frames, totally sorted progressive geometry, and impeccably neutral four-bar suspension all loaded with killer value specs are the same throughout the range.

Having ridden the standard carbon frame in two different spec formats the significantly lower weight (lower than a lot of so-called 'downcountry' bikes) makes it worth stretching your wallet for. From what I've heard, the alloy bikes are still really well sorted though and at the price they start they're pretty much unbeatable in terms of ride and features.

As well as a huge range of price points – from Shimano entry-level to SRAM Flight Attendant auto suspension – there are different wheel, frame and travel options under the broader Spectral umbrella too. The mullet wheel, coil-shock bike is perfect if you've got hero corners to slash. The shorter travel  Spectral 125  is great for those who want more pop than plush too. You're not gaining any advantages in terms of weight though so the  fancy frame CFR option  is the win if you've got the cash for a proper, premium trail racer. 

Even that's a comparative super bargain though, but don't forget a lot of that money is saved by skipping the expensive shop bit and sending you your Spectral in a box. Just like everything else Canyon, it's a nicely designed box though. 

For more, see our full  Canyon Spectral 29 CF 8 review .

Santa Cruz Hightower V3

Santa Cruz's latest Hightower is longer, slacker in the head, steeper in the seat and comes with internal storage where you can keep the  massive sense of totally predictable progression.

Yes, as a cynical old sod, I wasn't expecting to be that blown away by the new version of Santa Cruz's 29er all-rounder. Mainly because the old one was already my benchmark of how good a mid-travel (150mm front/145mm rear) 29er could feel. And like most other evolution models from most other brands, I didn't think a door to a secret store was really worth more weight and a £1000 price hike.

"Ha," said Santa Cruz and immediately set about making me look like one of those reviewers who doesn't bother to weigh things or think of the consequences and realities of paying nearly 10k for a "push bike". The fractionally shifted, smaller pivot kinematic of the VPP suspension whispered sweet nothings in my ear. I'm not going to go into how the new RockShox Super Deluxe shock produced an ecstatic "oh yes" from me, but I can tell you every click of that spring-detented, low-speed compression dial does something really special.  

The slightly altered handling told me how incredible I was every time I held off the brakes a little bit longer or tipped the bars into corners a bit deeper. The boxier carbon frame, perfectly shaped Santa Cruz bars and bulge-reinforced Reserve carbon rims told me their no-quibble lifetime warranty didn't matter because the way they rode made me feel invincible anyway.

And when I clicked the sweetly over-engineered catch on that internal storage it wasn't just like opening the door on a top-spec German whip. It was like I was important enough for someone to be opening my car door for me.

So, whether you get it from these utterings or you still need to read the  full Santa Cruz Hightower V3 review , if you've got a pile of cash or a robust lack of financial responsibility, the Hightower is the 'super trail' all-rounder to beat right now.

Mondraker Raze Carbon RR

Mondraker brought the super short stem, long reach stability geometry revolution to the mainstream with their Forward Geometry bikes. The Raze is their latest expression of that rebellious responsiveness with a super lively lightweight carbon frame and 150mm front, 130mm suspension split.

What sounds like a wonky amount of travel works well to encourage you to attack with the front wheel as much as possible. That's because it's when the Raze geometry is at its best and Mondraker even fits a reinforced front tire but not a rear one to reinforce the point.

The stunningly looking slimline frame not only looks fast standing still. It feeds into the 'grab the trail by the throat' vibe with a sinewy, feel that snakes and swerves through trouble while laying down awesome traction. The race-honed Zero suspension gets extra setup assistance via the wireless MIND travel tracking sensors front and rear too. That makes the Raze RR a live wire both technically and in terms of ride character. And while not everyone will need that level of tech or want that much in your face, synapse reactive responsiveness deserves a shout-out as something special.

Guy had this to say about the Raze's handling when he reviewed it, "despite so many bikes following much of Mondraker's pioneering geometry lead, it has managed to keep its signature ride character deliciously distinctive. The light, lithe, perfectly imbalanced suspension of the Raze RR makes it a proper ‘chef’s special’ in terms of accentuating that agility and inherent ‘skill gifting’ to the maximum." 

For more, check out our full  Mondraker Raze Carbon RR review .

Cotic Jeht 2

You're probably not surprised to see carbon bikes from a string of mega brands filling this best-of-guide. Steel from a small outfit near Sheffield UK though? Really?

And yes, the ferrous alloy is heavier than fiber composites by an average of a kilo for same-category bikes. You won't get the same stiffness as a big box frame and it doesn't scream 'Look how much I've spent on all this tech' either. The carefully curated steel tubes of Cotic's mid-travel trail machine add a subtle spring and flow that's almost impossible to weave into a composite, shape into an alloy tube, or dial into a damper though. Ovalisation and oversizing where it matters still means the Jeht 2 can place its front wheel perfectly and drive its rear wheel powerfully too. The latest Longshot geometry is confidence-boosting without killing the visceral, responsive vibe of the frame. 

A whole range of build specs and rolling chassis options offer surprisingly good value for a small company and Cy and his team will work with you to create any custom of partial build solutions you want too.

Guy has spent a load of time on the previous Jeht and was even more impressed by the latest Jeht 2. "Its notably quiet and damped vibe underlines how hard you can push the latest Jeht on the most challenging trails and it’s certainly got the chops to go head-to-head with the most hardcore bikes in any material now."

For more, see our full  Cotic Jeht 2 review .

The top racers in the world used to all ride hardtails for minimum weight, but tougher courses mean the fastest riders are now choosing the best full-suspension bikes instead. 

The great news is that it’s creating some really versatile high-velocity, short-travel machines that are as happy raving on your favorite singletrack as they are ripping up the race track. But which are the winning machines and what do you need to know to work out which is the best bike for you?

Santa Cruz Blur CC X01 AXS RSV

Santa Cruz hasn't had a proper podium-focused full suspension XC race bike in their lineup for years but the fourth-generation  Santa Cruz Blur  impressed me so much that I awarded it five stars in my full review. 

For the new Blur, Santa Cruz strived to combine XCO-race-worthy speed with the brand's signature handling that can be found on its range of popular trail bikes. New to the frame is a flex in the seat stay as well as a new suspension design that diverges from the brand's usual VPP setup. The suspension features 100mm front and rear, and there is a 120mm TR version of the bike available too. 

RockShox SID suspension front and rear are combined with SRAM's X01 Eagle AXS wireless drivetrain along with SRAM Level RSC brakes. Lightweight carbon rims are specced from Santa Cruz's in-house wheel brand Reserve and a 100mm Fox Transfer SL dropper post is also specced. Despite being seriously light you still get a full lifetime warranty on the frame, rims, bearings, and handlebars and no weight restriction either.

It's the effortless acceleration, effervescent flow and fun of the Blur that made it a favorite of our testers though, both on the race track and off.

Scott Spark Team Issue AXS

The Scott Spark is by far the most successful cross-country race bike of the last decade, and the latest model is faster, more controlled, and uniquely sleek looking too. 

The most obvious change is that Scott has hidden the rear shock inside the frame so that it's not exposed to the elements. The brand has also bumped up the rear suspension travel to 120mm on all Spark models, not just the downcountry/trail ones. The already progressive, control-boosting geometry can also be made a degree slacker in just a couple of minutes on the trailside which boosted my confidence when I was testing it.

The Team Issue AXS is a real sweet spot in terms of value for racers too. The excellent RockShox SID fork and Deluxe rear shock suspension feature bar lever controlled open, traction, and lock settings for maximum efficiency. The SRAM GX Eagle AXS electronic drivetrain is flawlessly fast and you get the superlight Syncros Hixon all in one carbon cockpit. The Syncros Silverton wheels are light too and Maxxis Rekon 2.4in tires roll super fast while staying rocky section safe. 

Guy spent most of his testing time on the Scott Spark hustling trails at e-MTB speeds and had this to say about Scott's XC bike. "A narrow flat bar, downturned stem, and fixed seat post confirm that the RC is a racer at heart, but it’s a brilliant example of just how far race bikes have come in terms of capability, confidence, and big-grin speed. 

Read more about the Spark in our full  Scott Spark Team Issue AXS  review. 

BMC Fourstroke 01Two

If you're looking for a cutting-edge XC bike then few come close to the BMC Fourstroke 01. BMC's latest race bike features aggressive and progressive geometry, triple mode shock control, and most significantly BMC's Airdrop seatpost. 

The geometry is pretty radical and wouldn't look all that out of place amongst the best trail bikes. The slack 66.5-degree head angle, short 432mm, and low 53mm bottom bracket mean the Fourstroke feels simultaneously planted and maneuverable. When it got updated, BMC completely changed the Fourstroke's frame layout too, squeezing in two inline water bottles alongside a new horizontal-orientated APS suspension system.

The big talking point around the Fourstroke 01 frame is BMC's Airdrop technology. Previously BMC used a RAD-integrated dropper post, they have now gone one step further by integrating an air chamber in the downtube which compresses the dropper post without the rider sitting down. It seems like a small detail however it potentially saves a lot of rider energy throughout a race and makes it easier to get the saddle out of the way on technical undulating segments.

Graham was lucky enough to test the BMC Fourstroke 01 on the challenging French Tokyo Olympic test track and was impressed by the Fourstroke 01's performance. In his first look, he says "Riders who want a super capable, confidence-inspiring XC bike are going to love the Fourstroke. It's agile and punchy with no loss of composure when the trails get rough assuming you stay within the remit of the fork. 

You can read more about the unique Airdrop technology in Graham's  BMC Fourstroke 01 TWO first ride review .

Cervelo ZFS-5

In the past road brands that have made the jump to off-road haven't always been all that successful. However, Cervelo has done an excellent job with their ZFS-5, producing a lightweight, fast, and capable XC bike.

The ZFS-5 packages a lot of our favorite features from the other XC bikes on this list. It features suspension characteristics from the Santa Cruz Blur (which is under the same Pon group corporate umbrella), similar geo and low weight as the Specialized Epic Evo, and the same 120mm travel and triple mode shock control as the  Scott Spark .

Whether that was a culmination of extensive testing or a paint-by-numbers exercise doesn't matter, the Cervelo is a hyper-competitive XC bike. 

Guy Kesteven spent a few months testing the bikes and had this to say about it. "The ZFS-5 is superlight with a beautifully balanced frameset feel and pedaling/control suspension character for effortless climbing and race reaper/distance shrinker speed. Slack head angles are combined with compact reach to create an aggressive but agile ride that rewards dynamic riders brilliantly and can be pushed surprisingly hard in savage situations too. It won’t autopilot you out of every mistake though so it’s still XC rather than DC at heart, even in the longer travel format."

It was good enough for him to award it full marks too, to find out more check out the full  Cervelo ZFS-5 frame review . 

With trail bikes getting heavier and longer travel all the time, a new breed of agile, responsive but still impressively controlled and fun to rally 'downcountry' bikes have appeared. There are lots of bikes that claim to be in this category but are too heavy or slow though, so we've picked our favorites carefully.

The Izzo is YT's debut into the lightweight full-suspension bike category is a seriously fun yet surprisingly fast machine. At 130mm of travel front and rear and 12.5kg in weight, this may not be a pure-bred race bike. However, it can still handle those marathon days and keep up with the fast guys on climbs before shredding them on the descents. 

The suspension is Kashima-coated, Fox Factory specs both the front and rear and the shock has a remote lockout for long, smooth transfer climbs. The bike is outfitted with a SRAM X01 Eagle 12-speed drivetrain and SRAM G2 brakes but the real win is the DT Swiss XMC 1200 Spline wheels. Just like the Izzo the carbon-rimmed favourites are very light yet properly trail tough and they've been wrapped in Maxxis tires for low drag, all conditions traction. 

Like most YT bikes, the value for money is excellent too, although I reckon more radical riders might want to swap to a shorter stem than the climb-optimized one supplied.

Most of the  Bike Perfect  team have been lucky enough to test the Izzo and Editor Rich Owen sums up its ride feel, "the YT Izzo is a serious blast to ride. A short-travel bike that gives a superbly planted feel and hunger for out-of-the-saddle sprints and pumps overflowing, undulating, yes, ok, 'everyday' trails. YT's sorted geometry means it's more capable than 130mm travel might suggest and the Izzo can take tough trails in its stride."

Check out our full review of the  YT Izzo Pro Race ,  and we've also reviewed the  YT Izzo Core 3  model.

Specialized Epic Evo Expert

The radical 'Brain suspension' Epic has been Specialized's flagship XC bike for nearly twenty years, but the latest generation of the Epic Evo is a lot more than just a trail version of that bike. As well as removing the 'Brain' from the suspension (which makes it the lightest full suspension frame option from Specialized) travel is also bumped up to 120mm front and rear and geometry is a lot more progressive too.

The RockShox SID forks and shock combination still keep it superlight and some of Specialized's pro XC racers are picking this bike over the normal Epic. The Roval rims are wrapped in Specialized's excellent downcountry tires too, complementing the beautifully lively and agile ride. 

Slacker angles and a 150mm dropper post from X-Fusion to keep the seat out of the way mean it still loves dancing down properly technical trails. It can get twangy if you push properly hard though, but to be honest, playing with that edge of control is a big part of the thrill of riding it.  

If you're looking for a bargain, the Comp version of this bike has all the trail-shredding capability and is still impressively light even with a lower-tier parts spec. Plus it has skin wall tires so we reckon it looks better as well. 

When Guy reviewed the Specialized Epic Evo Expert he found it to be "extremely light for its powerfully, aggressive performance and a lot more confident in dealing with the speed it so easily generates, the Epic Evo is a standout bike at the racier end of the ever-growing ‘downcountry’ category."

Light enough to race but rowdy enough to rally, check out our full thoughts in our  Specialized Epic Evo Expert review .

Norco Optic C2 SRAM

There is still some debate about whether a downcountry bike should be a slackened and sturdy cross-country bike or a short-travel lightweight trail bike. Norco's C2 falls into the latter with its 65-degree head angle and downhill spec suspension making it feel like the proper downhillers’ trail bike.  

The combination of 140mm RockShox Pike and 125mm SuperDeluxe Ultimate, backed up with burly spec items like Stan’s enduro-level Flow S1 wheels means you can confidently attack technical trails with precision and feedback that can be lost with the  best enduro bikes .

Mick Kirkman didn't feel like the Norco's short travel held it back at all, stating in his review that the "bike straddles the tightrope of travel and technical capability just about right. For sure, the absolute limit of hard-charging and still expecting to grip/get away with it is slightly lower than with a 170mm bike’s worth of get-out clauses, but that adds extra excitement, pump, and pop, and while the Optic is constantly stimulating senses through palms and soles, it rarely gets so edgy you can’t hammer along and push your limit."

For a full review of this short travel shredder, check out our  Norco Optic C2 SRAM review .

Best full-suspension mountain bikes: how to choose

What are the benefits of a full-suspension mountain bike.

Hardtails will always be the cheaper, lighter option and if you’ve got the skills you can skip and skim them through some pretty technical terrain, too. 

When the surface gets relentlessly rough or there are big drops and rocks involved, full-suspension is a massive advantage though. It sucks up bike-stopping impacts to help you sustain speed, keep you on line and ultimately keep you on the bike. The rear wheel is more consistently connected for better technical climbing traction and cornering speed too. The days of power-wasting bob and bounce, rapidly wearing pivots and unreliable rear shocks are mostly long gone too. That means you can carry more speed with less fatigue and risk wherever you ride. 

How much mountain bike suspension travel is best?

150mm is the average real-wheel movement for most trail bikes. It’s enough to make a big difference in control off drops and through rock gardens but not so much that it disturbs pedalling or geometry even at full travel. Most shock and suspension setups are sorted enough that there’s no saggy middle stroke section or lost power either. 

There are some trail bikes with 125-130mm travel feel for a tauter, tighter feel and some of them exploit that with a lighter-weight overall build too. Meanwhile, 120mm 'downcountry' bikes pack a surprising amount of control into a significantly lighter package while pure XC bikes run 100mm of travel to achieve sub 10kg weights.

What's the best mountain bike frame geometry?

Geometry has been the fastest-changing part of mountain bike performance recently. The slackest trail bikes are now running 63-degree head angles that would have been on DH bikes only a few years ago. Even the most progressive XC bikes can be adjusted to 66 degrees now when 70 degrees was the average not long ago. To stop them feeling like DH bikes though the latest thing is for seat angles to steepen to triathlon bike numbers. That all works to put you in the center of the action for the best turning and handling balance while the suspension does its job at either end.

What are the best mountain bike components?

Most bikes run Fox or RockShox suspension with Shimano or SRAM stop-and-go equipment and you can't go far wrong with either. SRAM AXS is our favourite top-end spec though, while Shimano Deore and SLX are awesome at the affordable end. Other brands like Cane Creek, Ohlins and Hope get a look in occasionally too and that's generally fine by us. 

Wheels vary from brand name to own brand and while few are rubbish, the best thing is that most bikes come with decent tires. A lot of them are set up tubeless from the shop too which is a definite win. Bars, stems and dropper posts are generally the right shape/length and reliable too, which is a big change from 5-10 years ago. 

In short, it's pretty hard to go wrong with most bikes now, although the price of entry to decent full-suspension is more like £1500 than £1000 like it was a few years back.

How much should the best full-suspension mountain bikes weigh?

The lightest full-suspension race bikes still sneak in under 10kg and premium downcountry bikes are in the 11 to 12.5kg bracket. Cheaper XC and DC bikes are in the 13 to 14kg range, but by that point, they're short-travel trail bikes. Most trail bikes are now in the 14 to 15kg range with some big hit or low price options sneaking significantly over that.

The good news is that while most bikes have got heavier, they mostly pedal better which offsets the weight on climbs or when accelerating out of corners. More control and confidence mean you can carry more speed through turns and technical sections as well, so there's less accelerating to do afterwards.

That won't help you lift your bike over a gate or into a car though and when it comes to long, not technical climbs, less weight is always an advantage.

The top racers in the world used to all ride hardtails for minimum weight but tougher courses mean the fastest riders all use the best full-suspension XC bikes. 

The great news is that it’s creating some versatile high-velocity, short-travel machines that are as happy raving on your favorite singletrack as they are ripping up the race track. But which are the winning machines and what do you need to know to work out which is the best bike for you?

Meet the testers

Our testers have ridden all the full-suspension bikes in this guide on a wide range of terrain, from groomed trail center to technical and challenging singletrack, in a variety of weather conditions, from bone dry to properly sodden. We test bikes over several months so we can assess how they fare over time. 

Guy Kesteven is  Bike Perfect's  contributing tech editor. Hatched in Yorkshire, he's been hardened by riding round it in all weathers since he was a kid. He spent a few years working in bike shops before starting writing and testing for bike mags in 1996. Since then he’s written several million words about several thousand test bikes and a ridiculous amount of riding gear

Graham is all about riding bikes off-road. Based in Edinburgh he has some of the best mountain biking and gravel riding in the UK right on his doorstep. With almost 20 years of riding experience, he has dabbled in downhill, enduro, and gravel racing

An ex-elite downhill racer, Mick's been mucking about and occasionally racing mountain bikes for over twenty years. Racing led to photo modeling and testing kit for magazines back in the day, and, nowadays, he's mostly riding enduro-style terrain on conventional and electric bikes.

Guy has been working on Bike Perfect since we launched in 2019. Hatched in Yorkshire he's been hardened by riding round it in all weathers since he was a kid. He spent a few years working in bike shops and warehouses before starting writing and testing for bike mags in 1996. Since then he’s written several million words about several thousand test bikes and a ridiculous amount of riding gear. To make sure he rarely sleeps and to fund his custom tandem habit, he’s also penned a handful of bike-related books and talks to a GoPro for YouTube, too.

Current rides: Cervelo ZFS-5, Forbidden Druid V2, Specialized Chisel, custom Nicolai enduro tandem, Landescape/Swallow custom gravel tandem

Height: 180cm

Weight: 69kg

• Richard Owen Editor, Bike Perfect
• Graham Cottingham Senior reviews writer, Bike Perfect

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Whether you're riding a flowy singletrack, cruising through the countryside on a cross-country ride, or challenging yourself in a bike park, a trail bike provides a ton of fun in any terrain.

The characteristics of a trail mountain bike

The sturdy frame, high-quality components, and low weight make the trail bike the ultimate all-rounder. From singletracks to bike park trails and even city rides, trail mountain bikes are ready for anything. Therefore, the bike is perfect for longer rides and guarantees fun on descents.

Trail bike: Full suspension or hardtail?

Trail bikes weigh between 26 – 35 pounds, with a carbon or aluminum frame. The front suspension travel is between 120 and 160 millimeters. Hardtail bikes have a front suspension fork, are lighter, and less expensive than full suspension bikes . A full suspension trail bike provides more traction in corners.

• Grand Canyon: Our Grand Canyon provides a great entry into the world of trails. This aluminum hardtail is agile and gives you a comfortable ride on many surfaces while you explore.
• Stoic: Our Stoic is a hardtail but borrows elements of frame geometry from our trail bike, Spectral. This mountain bike is not afraid of technical trails and jump sessions.
• Neuron: Trail bikes like the Neuron from Canyon are full-suspension all-rounders. With this bike, you can easily handle steep climbs and fast descents on your weekend ride.
• Spectral: The Canyon Spectral has progressive geometry and lofty 160-millimetre suspension travel. With this bike, your possibilities are almost limitless.
• Lux Trail: The Canyon Lux Trail is a lightweight trail bike with great pedaling efficiency. It easily manages even steep climbs and offers a well-balanced geometry for flowy descents.

27.5 or 29 inch wheels?

With MTBs, you have the choice between 27.5 and 29-inch wheels . The decision depends on the frame size, the intended use and personal preference.

When encountering numerous bumps and quick downhill sections, 29-inch wheels provide more stability, while riders on bikes with smaller wheels often have to lift the front wheel over obstacles. Smaller wheels provide more maneuverability in tight, technical sections. When changing direction, you can more easily move the rear wheel. Larger wheels are slightly heavier and less agile.

Buy Trail Bike online

Canyon offers trail bikes at an unbeatable price-performance ratio. We deliver your best trail bike directly to your doorstep. Since your trail MTB is already 95% assembled, it is ready for its first adventure after just a few simple steps. The free 30-day return policy and 6-year warranty complete your purchase.

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Best down-country mountain bike: short travel shredders

• Danny Milner
• January 10, 2024

Short on travel but big on geometry, we review the best down-country mountain bike rigs – fleet-footed steeds that blend the speed of an XC bike with the capability of trail bike.

Trek Top Fuel 8 Credit: Roo Fowler

Short on travel, light on weight, but big on geometry, the best down-country mountain bike rippers give you everything you want and nothing you don’t. Fast and fun, in a lightweight, efficient package, these bikes can cover ground with minimal fuss and still be thrashed to within an inch of their lives on proper trails.

• Best mountain bikes: hardtail, XC, trail and enduro to suit all budgets
• Best cross-country XC mountain bikes

The Yeti SB120 is a down-country bike you can buy with your head as well as your heart

1. Yeti SB120

The best down-country bike if money is no object.

Wheel size: 29in | Frame: Turq carbon, 120mm | Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL | Weight: 13.3kg (29.3lb) | Rating: 9/10

Reasons to buy:

• All round overachiever with superlative suspension
• Wide size range

Reasons to avoid:

• Agile rather than ultra aggressive
• Not actually that light
• No internal storage

From one of the most aspirational brands in the business comes the impeccable SB120. Yeti shrinks and shoehorns its unique Switch Infinity suspension design into the SB120 chassis. Where the swingarm moves up and down on dual Fox shafts just above the bottom bracket. And the new design has improved seals, bearings, hardware, and pivots, so it should stay in tip-top condition for longer.

And this clever suspension design really works. As we explained in our review, “the supple suspension is stable under power gives a really positive pedalling feel”. Then, when you really hit a something hard and the rear wheel sticks to the ground, giving superb traction and control. It needs a lighter set of wheels to do the flickable geometry and sublime suspension justice, but even out of the box the Yeti SB120 had us smitten.

Read our full review of the Yeti SB120

Santa Cruz’s Tallboy is a terrier that thinks it’s a rottweiler

2. Santa Cruz Tallboy

Best down-country bike for sending it.

Wheel size: 29in | Frame: Carbon CC, 120mm | Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL | Weight: 13.08kg (28.84lb) | Rating: 9/10

• Outstandingly fast and focused full-send aggression
• Does things normally reserved for burlier bikes
• Superb size range
• Internal storage compartment
• Needs a pretty skilled rider to avoid pratfalls
• Uncomfortably uncooperative on technical off-piste trails
• Can be tiring to ride

Although often overlooked in the comprehensive, verging on confusing, Santa Cruz range, we think the Tallboy is an undiscovered gem. You’ve heard of small man syndrome, or small dog syndrome, well the Tallboy has small bike syndrome, where it steadfastly believes it’s actually an enduro bike, and deserves to be ridden as such. The stiff frame and aggressive angles beg to be wrung out on every descent, yet the efficient suspension and lightweight mean it’s always the first bike back up to the top of the hill.

For some riders, all that straining at the leash might be too much. But if you love wringing the neck of a short travel whip, and seeing your buddies slack-jawed in amazement as you undermine and overtake their big-travel enduro bikes, the Tallboy is the ultimate sleeper bike.

Read our full review of the Santa Cruz Tallboy

Transition’s Spur is still one of the finest down-country bikes we’ve ever tested

3. Transition Spur

Best lightweight down-country bike.

Wheel size: 29in | Frame: Carbon, 120mm travel | Sizes: S, M, L, XL | Weight: 11.25kg (24.8lb) | Rating: 10/10

• Perfect blend of speed and control
• Lightweight
• Not the most robust build if you’re carrying some timber
• Narrow size range

The Transition Spur is arguably the bike that spawned the down-country category, and also the bike that perhaps best defines it. At under 11.5kg, the Spur flies out of the gate, haring up climbs and tearing along high-speed singletrack. That lack of inertia encouraged us to sprint every rise, pop every jump, and schralp every turn, helped by the stable geometry and supple suspension.

With lightweight RockShox Sid forks up front, the temptation is to add travel and girth, but to do so is to dilute the Spur’s potency and add unnecessary grams. So while there’s a bit of flex when pushed hard, we’d treat that as part of the charm, and lap up the whirlwind of action that accompanies every descent. As we said in our review, the Transition Spur is “the best-realised ‘down-country’ bike we’ve ever tested and the one we all covet if we were spending our own cash”.

Read our full test review of the Transition Spur

Trek’s Top Fuel 8 offers a high-octane ride

6. Trek Top Fuel

Explosive trail weapon.

Wheel size: 29in | Frame: Carbon or alloy, 120mm travel | Frame sizes: S, M, M/L, L, XL, XXL | Weight: 14.89kg | Suspension travel: 130mm f/120mm r | Rating: 9/10

• Poppy, playful and efficient
• Available in six frame sizes
• Internal down tube storage
• Mino Link flip chip allows geometry tweaks
• Needs a 180mm rear rotor
• Accurate rear shock set up is crucial
• A solid build, so not the lightest in its class

While the Trek Top Fuel used to be a lean, mean, cross-country fighting machine, the middle-aged spread has left it sagging a little on the scales. But don’t let that fact put you off, because the ride quality is worth its weight in gold, even if it won’t be competing for gold medals on the race track.

In our test we praised the Top Fuel as offering a “fast, fun and engaging ride”. Where “Its poppy playful nature, combined with generous sizing, means you never feel limited by the travel for regular trail riding”. Combined, this means the Trek Top Fuel provides a high-octane ride that keeps the pace high without compromising on fun. If you can stretch to one of the carbon options, that will help shed some weight, and really light the blue touch paper.

Read our full test review of the Trek Top Fuel 8

The Canyon Neuron 6 is fast and frugal

7. Canyon Neuron 5

Speed freak that also enjoys a party.

Wheel size: 27.5in or 29in | Travel: 130mm | Frame sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL | Frame: Aluminium or carbon | Weight: 14.63kg (32.25lb) | Rating: N/A

• Friendly yet rewarding geometry
• Excellent value
• Seat tube could be a bit shorter
• Saddle is a bit too racy
• Not that light for a down-country bike

The Neuron is Canyon’s back-to-basics trail bike, newly updated for 2023, There are four carbon and four alloy models to choose from, with prices starting from £1,849 for the Neuron 5 and going up to £5,749 for the Neuron CF LTD. There’s also a kids’ Young Hero model with an XS frame and 27.5in wheels for £1,499, and women’s versions of the Neuron 6, Neuron 7 and Neuron CF8 available at no extra cost.

As with the previous bike, all XS and S frames come with 27.5in wheels, while the Medium upwards come with 29in wheels. As with most Canyons, you’ll need to factor in a bike box at £18.99 and delivery at £37.99 to all of the headline prices. Whichever you choose, the latest Neuron is versatile, affordable and a total blast to ride, as happy hitting enduro tracks and sending jumps as racking up the miles on a multi-day ride. The alloy frame has a comfortable, compliant ride that’s never jarring, and the choice of fast-rolling Schwalbe tyres means it rolls along almost effortlessly.

Read our full test review of the Canyon Neuron 6

Looks so sharp you could cut yourself just looking at it: The YT Izzo Uncaged 7

Rapier-sharp speed and agility

Wheel size: 29in | Frame: Carbon, 120mm travel | Frame sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL | Weight: 11.4kg | Rating: N/A

• Acutely responsive and ruthlessly efficient
• Agile and accurate
• Good spec for the price
• Nowhere to hide in the rough
• Traction/grip is not the best
• Doesn’t really need the remote lockout
• Front tyre could be more aggressive

YT’s razor-sharp Izzo feels a million miles away from the brand’s signature Capra and popular Jeffsy trail bike. It’s blisteringly fast but ruthlessly unforgiving, so you need to be on top of your game and fighting fit to keep it under control and take the punches. It’s much stiffer than the Transition Spur, and not as capable as the Santa Cruz Tallboy or Yeti SB120, so in some ways it’s a bit of an anomaly. But it’s also a great-looking bike, feels amazing in certain situations, and the fact that it’s a challenge to get the most out of will definitely appeal to a certain type of rider.

Read our full test review of the YT Izzo Uncaged 7

Orange knows how to build a great handling bike, and the Stage Evo is no exception

9. Orange Stage Evo

Packs big bike geometry into a nimble 120mm package.

Wheel size:  29in | Frame: 6061-T6 Aluminium, 120mm travel | Frame sizes: S, M, L, XL  | Weight: 13.83kg (30.49lb) | Rating: N/A

• Incredibly well-poised handling belies its modest weight
• It’s arguably a trail bike

Orange may have ploughed its own furrow over the years, towed by a horse rather than a GPS-guided John Deere, but despite the UK-brand’s traditional frame materials and construction methods, it continues to bang out bikes that ride every bit as well as more cutting-edge rivals. Often even better. The Stage Evo is one such bike, and effectively a shrunken Stage trail bike. And from the very first corner we were reminded why Orange still commands a loyal customer base – the Stage Evo simply shreds. When we tested it, we noted “yes, it’s easy to ride beyond the physical limits of the travel, but that’s what makes the Stage Evo such an engaging bike on regular terrain”.

Read our first ride review of Orange Stage Evo

As soon as you release the reins, the Spur starts to gallop

What is a down-country mountain bike?

A few rules to help categorise a down-country bike. The first rule is that these rules are made to be broken!

Nothing over 120mm

No more than 120mm of suspension travel at either end. The archetypal down-country bike should have closer to 100mm of rear travel. And if there’s a 130mm travel fork up front, it’s ruled out. Usually. There are some outliers than we allow into the down-country fold. Otherwise the whole thing just gets far too close to a regular trail bike. So, no Norco Optic or Nukeproof Reactor 290c ST. Too trail-bikey.

Having said that, neither rear travel nor fork travel should have less than 100mm. Save that for XC race bikes.

With less mass to manhandle, down-country bikes like the YT Izzo goad you into throwing shapes at every opportunity. 

Nothing steeper than 67°

We’re talking head angles here. Non-XC geometry is the key thing that must be included if a bike is to be classed as down-country. And though we say ‘geometry’ we really mean head angle. There’s currently not much consensus about the other angles and measurements on down-country mountain bikes; they don’t all have longer reach numbers, nor steeper seat angles, nor super low BBs.

But the head angle on all down-country bikes cannot be steeper than 67°. 66° is arguably the most commonly seen number.

Big wheels only

You’ll not find any 27.5in wheels here. Nope, not even just on the rear as a modern mullet setup. 29in wheels rule the down-country roost.

Although it doesn’t have the poppiest suspension feel, the Tallboy is great fun on jump trails

What’s the difference between an XC bike and a down-country bike?

That’s a contentious one, and mostly a matter of opinion. But in our view, a down-country bike is a trail bike with the weight and travel of an XC bike, whereas an XC bike generally has steeper geometry, a lower front end and a stronger bias towards efficiency. Using, for instance, remote lockouts to maximise power transfer on smooth surfaces. The lines are blurred, however, and some XC bikes are closer to down-country bikes than others. And the components used also make defining bikes more difficult. Some down-country forks have all-out XC race forks. Some have middling 34-35mm stanchions. Some have four-pot brakes and huge rotors. Others just have 180/160 twin-pot combos. Some have dinky stems. Some still sport stems over 50mm long.

True XC bikes, like the Specialized S-Works Epic WC, are lighter, pricier, and more focussed machines. 

It’s the finishing kit that is perhaps key to the down-country experience. And expectation. Some down-country bikes appear to be aimed at ex-XC lycra-heads looking for more fun and less sketch in their rides. Other down-country bikes are aimed at the all-out aggro brigade who have tired of their super-capable enduro bikes and wish to inject a level of limit to their Sunday shredding.

In our opinion, it’s the latter type of down-country bike that is most interesting and exciting. But more capable XC bikes also provide unique thrills, and that injection of effortless pace never gets boring.

Slacker, longer, lower… shorter. Bring it on.

Best Trail Mountain Bikes Under $2,500

From capable hardtails to burly full-suspension rigs, we break down our top mountain bikes for those on a mid-range budget.

Switchback Travel ( Jason Hummel )

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us . 

Mountain biking can be a very expensive sport: There are hundreds of excellent bikes available for $4,000 to $6,000, and those aren’t even at the highest end of the price spectrum. Fortunately, for those of us not ready to spend so much on something without a motor, there are plenty of great bikes for under or around $2,500. And the good news is that much of the technology that has pushed the sport forward year after year has trickled down into this category. Below are our picks for 2024, which range from aggressive hardtails to all mountain-ready full-suspension workhorses. For more background information, check out our comparison table and buying advice found below the picks.

Editor’s note: We updated this guide on May 7, 2024, to amend the title, from “Best Mountain Bikes Under $2,000” to “Best Trail Mountain Bikes Under $2,500.” This reflects rising prices in the broader market and innovation that’s led to some compelling builds at more affordable prices. As a result, many of the picks below are new, although most of the brands and collections are familiar.  

Best Full-Suspension Bike Under $2,500

1. polygon siskiu t8 ($2,399).

There’s no getting around it: Quality full-suspension bikes are pricey. For a budget bike in this category, you often have to make some serious sacrifices. But Polygon has put together a stellar build that's high on value with their Siskiu T8. With 140 millimeters of travel up front and 135 in the rear, a modern geometry, and a short chainstay, the Siskiu is built to handle aggressive riding on any terrain. And overall, the build is considerably more premium than what we typically see at this price point. This includes the Shimano SLX drivetrain, which is higher-quality than the equivalent parts of any other full-suspension bike on this list. Overall, if you're willing to spend into the upper end of the price range and looking to maximize bang for your buck, the Siskui handily gets our vote. It’s true that a hardtail at the same price will be sprightlier and faster on long climbs, but the Polygon Siskiu doesn’t give up much and is far more planted over rocks and roots. Polygon is also a consumer-direct brand, which means you likely won’t have the luxury of testing your bike before your purchase—and finding the right fit is critical for comfort and long-term enjoyment on the trail. We feel the risk is worth the reward in this case, but those wanting a more readily available—but still entirely capable—option should check out the Cannondale Habit 4 below. A final note: The small and medium frame sizes come with 27.5-inch wheels, while the larger sizes are 29ers. See the Polygon Siskiu T8

Best Hardtail Under $2,500

2. salsa timberjack xt 29 ($2,499).

If you’re looking for a mountain bike on a budget, options generally fall into one of two buckets: an excellent hardtail or a middle-of-the-road full-suspension bike. The Salsa Timberjack is a shining example of the latter, squeezing in just under our $2,500 price limit (note: REI currently has it listed for $2,100, which is a stellar deal). Featuring Shimano’s modern 12-speed XT drivetrain and packed with quality parts like a RockShox 35 Gold fork and a TranzX dropper post, the Timberjack checks all the boxes for most committed riders. Not to mention, it’s a seriously versatile ride that can handle everything from technical singletrack to bikepacking (as with many Salsa designs, it’s set up to be easily converted).

The Timberjack’s quality components and comfortable riding position are great for trail use and let you get pretty rowdy, but aggressive all-mountain riders will be left wanting. The 130-millimeter hardtail design just can’t keep up on downhill sections with the full-suspension Polygon Siskui above, no matter how hard you try. Should descending rough trails at speed be in your future, we think the Siskui above or Cannondale Habit below are better long-term investments. But if you want a well-equipped hardtail with no glaring needs for any upgrades in the near future, the Timberjack is a great option. For a step down in price, it’s also worth checking out Salsa’s Timberjack SLX 29 ($1,780), which features slightly downgraded components but is yet another stellar value for what you get. See the Salsa Timberjack XT 29

Best of the Rest

3. cannondale habit 4 ($2,300).

While fairly heavy at 33.5 pounds, the Cannondale Habit 4 still climbs well and rips downhill on all but the steepest of descents. Like many competitors above and below, it also comes with a dropper post, modern geometry, and a build kit that will meet or exceed the needs of most riders, although the Deore drivetrain is a step down from the Polygon Siskiu’s Shimano SLX components. The Siksiu also boasts a burlier fork that easily justifies the extra $99, in our opinion. But the Cannondale is available through REI and many other local shops, meaning you’ll be able to try the bike out and dial in fit before making the investment. See the Cannondale Habit 4

4. Santa Cruz Chameleon D ($2,099)

Compared to the Timberjack above, the Chameleon's SRAM Eagle SX drivetrain is a step down from the Salsa’s Shimano XT (and at this price, many prefer Shimano’s Deore system, which you can get with the Kona Big Honzo DL or Norco Fluid HT 1 below). So why such the strong finish for the Timberjack on our list? In short: price, style, and fun factor. Put simply, it’s a blast to ride whether you prefer sketchy singletrack or bikepacking, and Santa Cruz makes it easy to customize the build depending on your needs and objectives. One noteworthy option is the “mullet” build,” which pairs a 29-inch tire up front (the business) with a 27.5-inch tire in the back (the party) for best-of-both-worlds performance.  See the Santa Cruz Chameleon D

5. Canyon Spectral 4 ($2,299)

In addition to being less of an all-rounder than most of the picks above, the Spectral’s components are middle-of-the road, including a fairly basic SRAM SX drivetrain. As we covered with the Siskui above, buying consumer-direct also comes with some inherent downsides, the most glaring of which is that you won't get to test the bike at your local shop before purchasing. But if value and descending capabilities are at the top of your priority list, the Spectral checks both boxes emphatically. For the same price, it’s also worth checking out Canyon’s Neuron 5 , which features a more balanced geometry for long rides and steep climbs. See the Canyon Spectral 4

6. Marin Rift Zone 29 2 ($2,299)

It can be a real mixed bag in quality and performance for full-suspension bikes under $2,500, but Marin has a real winner in the Rift Zone 29 line. A sizable step up from the entry-level “1” model, the Rift Zone 29 2 nails all the right features with a sturdy and high-quality aluminum frame, modern geometry that’s slack enough for capable descending but comfortable on the climbs, and a 12-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain with a very wide range. At $2,299, the Rift Zone 29 2 adds up to a fantastic value.

With 130 millimeters of travel at both the front and rear, the Rift Zone wouldn’t be our first choice for longer cross-country rides, although it’s much more of an all-rounder than the decidedly downhill-focused Spectral 4 above. It’s also a little heavy and not the most efficient climber—a hardtail at the same price will be sprightlier and faster on long climbs. Alternatively, Marin also offers the Rift 2 27.5, which features smaller wheels for better responsiveness and maneuverability (read: It’s easier to flick around), although the 29 2 is more planted over rocks and roots. Overall, both Rift Zones are excellent values, and a final decision will come down to your preferences and riding objectives. See the Marin Rift Zone 29 2

7.  Trek Roscoe 8 ($2,400)

One of the biggest brands in the business, Wisconsin-based Trek produces top-notch bikes across almost every price point. Their Roscoe 8 is a case in point with aggressive geometry and all-around high-quality components, including a RockShox 35 Gold front fork that’s identical to the Timberjack XT above—but with 10 millimeters more travel. Like the other hardtails on our list, the Roscoe also comes with quality disc brakes and a dropper post. In short, this bike is ready to rip whether you’re lapping your local mountain or embarking on a remove bikepacking trip. Note: Only the extra-small frame comes with 27.5-inch wheels, while all other sizes sport beefy 29-inch wheels that provide a more solid platform over rocky and rooty terrain.

Like all the hardtails on this list, the Trek Roscoe 8 is a great match for riders looking to maximize uphill performance and versatility (hardtails can be more fun and flickable, plus they make excellent bikepacking rigs). However, if you’re more interested in steep and rugged descents, there’s no substitute for a full-suspension bike. Comparing hardtails, the Trek does beat out the Santa Cruz Chameleon D above in overall quality of components (stepping up to the $2,599 Chameleon R is a different story), including its groupset and front fork. But the difference is relatively minor, and the Santa Cruz’s $300-chepaer price point is enough for us to give it the overall edge. See the Trek Roscoe 8

8. Commencal Meta HT AM Essential ($2,200)

French direct-to-consumer brand Commencal built their Meta HT AM on the idea that it’s better to have a high-quality hardtail than a poorly performing full-suspension bike. They combined aggressive geometry (including a 64-degree head tube) with a 150 millimeter-travel RockShox fork that’s the longest-travel suspension fork on this list. Adding in burly tubeless-ready tires and SRAM’s smooth-shifting NX Eagle drivetrain makes the Meta a capable hardtail that’s ready both to climb and descend. Also of note: The small and medium frame sizes come with a “mullet” setup that includes a 29-inch wheel in the front and 27.5 in the back for a better fit and nimbler ride (large and extra-large frames come as full 29ers).

The Commencal Meta has much to offer riders looking for a quiver of one, and cutting out the middleman by ordering from a direct-to-consumer brand keeps the cost down. But ordering a bike online can also have its drawbacks. As we covered above, there’s nothing like taking a bike for a test ride before plunking down your hard-earned cash, which you won’t be able to do ordering from a direct-to-consumer brand. Commencal offers a five-year warranty, but customer service is all via phone or email, versus popping into your local shop for service. If the value of the Meta HT AM Ride is tempting but you’d prefer to shop locally, the Santa Cruz Chameleon D above also includes the option for a mullet setup—albeit with 20 millimeters less travel—and comes in around $100 cheaper to boot. See the Commencal Meta HT AM Essential

9. Giant Stance 29 1 ($1,850)

That said, the drop in price does come with some notable performance compromises. First, the Stance 29 1 has the least travel of any full-suspension bike here, so intermediate to advanced riders who like to push their limits will almost certainly be left wanting more. Overall build quality is also a step down from many other designs here—especially if you’re willing to forgo rear suspension and opt for an ultra-capable hardtail like the $2,200 Commencal Meta HT AM Essential above. That said, price will be the clincher for some, in which case the Giant Stance is an entirely capable and well-rounded option provided you stick to flowy, less technical trails. See the Giant Stance 29 1

10. Specialized Fuse Sport 27.5 ($2,400)

Specialized is credited with making the first mass-produced mountain bike, the Stumpjumper, back in the early 1980s and has been honing their craft ever since. Among their healthy selection of sub-$2,500 offerings, we like the sturdy but responsive Fuse Sport 27.5 best. With a relatively slack head tube angle (66 degrees) and 27.5-inch tires, the Fuse Sport offers a nice balance between high-speed stability and responsiveness. It’s also well built with quality components that beat out just about all of the full-suspension options on our list (again, if you’re looking to maximize bang for your buck, a hardtail is the way to go). Finally, while entirely subjective, we love the Fuse Sport’s sleek, clean frame and availability in two classy colorways (we especially like the Gloss Terra Cotta/Arctic Blue shown in the photo to the right).

Our biggest gripe is that the Fuse Sport is only available with 27.5-inch tires. Everyone is different, but many hardtail riders prefer the ruggedness and rollover capability of a 29er. However, if you’re looking to get a little rowdy and don’t mind the trade-offs in stability, a 27.5 setup certainly has its advantages, including better pedaling efficiency on the uphills and quicker responsiveness to input. Smaller riders will also likely find it provides a better overall fit and feel. Value-wise, you can get the same SRAM SX drivetrain with the $300-cheaper Chameleon above, and alternatives like the $2,399 Trek Roscoe 8 and $2,499 Salsa Timberjack XT 29 are overall better values in the hardtail market with upgraded components. The relative lack of versatility and value push the Fuse Sport down toward the bottom of our list, but it’s nevertheless a capable, well-built, and good-looking hardtail for the price. See the Specialized Fuse Sport 27.5

11. Norco Fluid FS A3 ($2,499)

Based out of British Columbia, Norco is no stranger to technical singletrack and aggressive backwoods terrain. Part of their extensive Fluid collection, the Fluid FS A3 is at the very upper end of our $2,500 price limit but doesn’t skimp on quality details and well-rounded performance. As expected for the price, the Fluid features a high-quality aluminum frame, modern geometry, a dropper post, hydraulic disc brakes, and tubeless-ready tires. Norco also offers a limited lifetime warranty on the frame and a two-year warranty on the bike’s full-suspension hardware, both of which are very competitive in the market (not to mention a solid dealer network throughout the U.S.). And we’d be remiss not to mention their Ride Aligned program , which helps riders dial in a customized setup based on fit and terrain preferences.

The Norco Fluid FS A3 doesn’t knock it out of the park in every department, though. For $200 less, Canyon’s Spectral 4 above offers a very similar front fork and drivetrain—both of which are somewhat middling but perfectly serviceable for most riders—along with additional travel at both the front and rear (160 and 150mm respectively). And for $100 less than the Norco, Polygon offers big component improvements with the top-rated Siskiu T8, including an upgraded SLX drivetrain. Finally, we think there are better-looking options available, including both of the aforementioned alternatives as well as Cannondale’s $200-cheaper Habit 4. But if you don’t mind spending up, the Fluid nevertheless is an excellent and fun setup that will handily exceed the needs of most recreational riders. See the Norco Fluid FS A3

12.  Kona Big Honzo DL ($1,999)

Why the last-place finish for the Kona Big Honzo DL? It largely comes down to components: While a significant $400 less than the similarly built Specialized Fuse Sport 27.5 above, the Honzo is a notable step down in build quality, including a downgraded drivetrain and—in our opinion—fairly bland exterior. The latter complaint is purely personal preference, however, and the Kona’s beefy tires and otherwise well-rounded build earn it a spot on our list this season. Editor’s note: The Honzo DL is sold out on Kona’s website at the time of publishing, but we confirmed that more stock is expected by the end of August. In the meantime, it’s worth checking with your local bike shops to see if they carry the Honzo (or any of Kona’s myriad other sub-$2,500 hardtails). See the Kona Big Honzo DL

Mountain Bike Comparison Table

About our testing process.

From technical singletrack to remote backcountry bikepacking, many of us at Switchback Travel regularly hit the trails on two wheels. Former editor-in-chief John Ellings put together our initial list of seven sub-$2,000 bikes in 2015. Based in eastern Washington state, John lives in a mountain biking mecca and takes advantage any time he can—including frequent midday “lunch laps.” Contributing editor Nick Mott took over the guide in 2024. Also an avid mountain biker, Nick is spoiled by the plethora of long, steep, rowdy climbs and remote singletrack near his home in southwest Montana. 

To dial in our list of 12 capable trail bikes above, we drew from our extensive experiences testing different designs on all manner of terrain—from long, rolling rides to technical trails across the U.S. and British Columbia (where two of our most fervent testers are based). We also garnered feedback from our bike-savvy contributors and the online mountain bike community. In addition to price, we prioritized bikes with modern geometry and high-quality components, and factors like brand reputation and quality of customer service also played a role in determining our favorites. As the mountain bike market continues to evolve, we will update the list above to reflect the latest and greatest designs under $2,500. For those on a tighter budget, we took a similar approach to compile our list of the best mountain bikes under $1,500 .  

Mountain Bike Buying Advice

Mountain bike types, full suspension vs. hardtail, wheel size: 29er vs. 27.5-inch, drivetrain and gears, carbon fiber frames: are they worth it, buying a mountain bike online, consumer-direct bikes.

• Should I Buy a Used Bike?  

Mountain bikes come in a variety of specialties: Cross-country (XC) bikes, for example, are built for long, light, and fast expeditions over relatively mellow terrain. Downhill bikes are heavy, feature beefy suspension, and are built to charge down steep and rugged trails. Fat bikes live up to their name with thick wheels that are geared for stability and traction on sand and snow. These are all great options if you’re specializing in any one terrain type, but most riders—and especially beginners and intermediates looking for mid-range designs like those above—are in the market for an all-rounder trail bike. While typically not the best in any one performance category, trail bikes are well-rounded options that excel for both climbing and descending. They can rock rooty descents, power over long, rolling, singletrack, and roll up remote, rugged climbs. We’ve further divided our selection into full-suspension offerings and hardtails, which we break down below.  

At first glance, it may appear that having more gears is a good thing—20 is better than 12, right? But that 20-gear (2x10 crankset) ride can actually be more cumbersome to use. On the trail, you need crisp changes to react to rapid ascents and descents, and swapping from the big to small chain ring in the front is a real time-killer—not to mention it means excess weight and complexity. All of the bikes here have a 1 x 12 drivetrain, which hits a real sweet spot at this price point with enough range to handle the ups and downs of most trail riding. The majority feature SRAM's or Shimano's entry-level—but still high-quality—SX and Deore drivetrains, while our top models—like the Salsa Timberjack XT —feature upgraded systems.  

Carbon fiber bikes are not new to the world of cycling, but they are certainly popular and often the center of attention on group rides. So what’s all the hoopla about? Carbon bikes are almost always lighter than their aluminum-frame counterparts, sometimes shaving up to 2 pounds. While most beginner riders probably won’t notice much of a difference, those racing the clock will certainly enjoy the decrease in weight. And carbon fiber is actually known to be stiffer than aluminum, which is a boon for efficiently transferring power. Finally, their lack of welds and smooth shapes give these bikes a premium, sleek look.

This boutique material is not without its downsides, however, and often costs hundreds, if not thousands, more than an equivalently spec’d aluminum counterpart. Prepare to get a lot less bike for your money should you go this route (there's a reason no carbon bikes made our list). Carbon frames are also said to be more susceptible to impending rock strikes and hits, something that aluminum can shrug off in most cases. And one of the biggest downsides of carbon fiber is that it is not easy to recycle, which is a positive upside for old aluminum bikes. All in all, if you prioritize quality components over a light frame and want to keep your price point under $2,500, we think aluminum is the way to go.   

The majority of shipped bikes require some sort of assembly, so it’s important to have a working knowledge of how they are put together. In the most basic situation, you’ll need to install the front wheel and pedals of a shipped bike. This sounds easy in theory—and it often is—but wheels can sometimes be tricky to line up correctly and pedals have reverse threads, which can be confusing for first-timers. At the other end of the spectrum, you may be required to cut the fork’s steerer tube, install the bottom bracket, and route cables through the frame—all of which require special tools and mechanical know-how. Online programs like Diamondback’s Ready Ride provide great bike-building tutorials, and if all else fails, your local bike shop will happily assemble your bike and fix any, or all, of your mistakes. This in-person service does not come cheap, ranging from around $75-$150, but knowing your bike was properly and professionally assembled will ease your mind when bombing down sketchy single track.  

Consumer-direct brands like Canyon, Polygon, and Commencal have been gaining a lot of momentum in the U.S. market over the past several years. The reason: Compared with traditional brands that work through brick-and-mortar bike shops, these online-only companies offer better bang for your buck. As an example, the top-ranked Polygon Siskiu T8 above ($2,400) and Santa Cruz’s Tallboy D (well outside the cap of our price range for this lineup) go toe-to-toe with their aluminum frames, 29-inch wheels, and mid-tier drivetrain and suspension components. But with a huge difference in price and fairly similar on-trail performance (the Tallboy is arguably slightly more refined), the Polygon makes a very strong case for itself. And similar comparisons can be drawn with Commencal’s hardtails and Canyon’s array of gravel, road, and MTB offerings.

There’s no denying the fact that consumer-direct companies sell their bikes at enticing prices, but is it too good to be true? You’ve likely heard some horror stories about poor customer support, long wait times, and lack of inventory altogether. Plus, there’s a good chance you won’t be able to give the bike a test ride prior to purchasing. And finally, there’s something to be said for supporting your local bike shop. However, if you’re simply looking for the best value bike on the market—and aren’t too risk-averse to the potential downsides—it’s hard to ignore consumer-direct companies.  

Should I Buy a Used Bike?

Buying a used bike is a great way to cut down on waste and extend the life of a product, but there are a number of things you should consider before going down that path. The main appeal to buying used is saving money, but unmaintained bikes may end up costing you a lot in future repairs (and you won’t be able to utilize the manufacturer warranty in most cases). It’s important to check the drivetrain for wear: Specifically, are the chainring teeth shaped like shark fins (as opposed to triangles), or missing altogether? If so, then those need to be replaced. How many miles does the chain have on it? Use a chain checker tool to see if it’s worn out. It’s also important to closely inspect the bike frame for cracks or major dents—if either are present, we recommend moving on.  

Similar to buying a pre-owned car, the best way to ensure you're purchasing a quality used bike is to have a shop check it out. We recommend calling ahead of time and asking if a bike technician can take a few minutes to go over the bike. When you’re spending hundreds (or thousands) of dollars, we think it’s worth the time and hassle for a professional opinion. All in all, buying used can be a great way to get a quality bike at half the original price, but just be aware of the possible risks that are involved. Back to Our Top Mountain Bike Picks   Back to Our Mountain Bike Comparison Table

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Men's Health

10 Folding Bikes That Pack Light and Travel Far

Posted: March 5, 2024 | Last updated: March 5, 2024

WE ALL KNOW bikes are great for exercising , commuting to work, and for exploring nature trails. But bikes are often heavy and can take up quite a bit of space—all pretty inconvenient if you’re an apartment dweller or are otherwise short on storage at home. That’s where a folding bikes come in.

The first folding bike designs (which, surprisingly, date back more than a century ago) were clunky, cumbersome, and not especially portable. Today’s best folding bikes, however, are every bit as sleek as the road-friendly bikes most commuters are used to. Many folding bikes come with clever specs, including the use of lightweight materials and quick-release folding mechanisms, in efforts to maximize portability. Folding bikes can pack down small enough to fit in a closet, in the trunk of a sedan, and even under a bed—so the sky is the limit on where you can stash them.

The Best Folding Bikes

How we selected.

Our expert panel of gear experts researched and vetted a handful of folding bike models over the last six months. We also brought in first-hand testing knowledge of folding bikes our editors and writers own. We considered factors like comfort, quality, durability, price, and even the style of folding bikes in our rankings. Our top picks come from a wide range of merchants, from budget-friendly retailers (like Amazon and Walmart) to specialty sellers (like Brompton and Tern). Ahead, our top ten best folding bikes of 2024.

Mariner D8 Folding Bike

Dahon's Mariner D8 is a solid folding bike for anyone looking to upgrade from an entry-level, sub-$500 folder to something a little more substantial without dropping north of $1,500 to get there. The versatile design includes an aluminum frame, an eight-speed drivetrain, and 20-inch wheels, making it well-suited for both commuters and recreational riders.

The folded size is compact enough to stash in a car trunk or closet, and the 27-pound carry weight makes it light enough to carry in hand if needed. Other features we dig include built-in fenders and a rear rack, so you can carry all your gear and stay reasonably dry in the rain. This model is also surprisingly well-priced at just under $1,000 delivered (with free returns through Amazon).

Loop Folding Bike

There's something retro-cool about a Schwinn. The Loop Folding Bike is a versatile, all-around model designed for a wide variety of individuals. The one-size-fits-most design adapts to riders between 4'8" and 6'2", so you can pass it around between your roommates or family members of any size. It checks all our must-have boxes for a best-of folding bike, including a seven-speed twist shifter, front and rear linear pull brakes, and 20-inch wheels built for just about any terrain city dwellers are likely to encounter.

Schwinn also includes useful add-ons like full-wrap fenders, a rear cargo rack, and a heavy-gauge nylon bag for stashing all your favorite gear. It weighs 33 pounds and collapses down to roughly 30" x 30" x 17.5", making it one of the bulkier models in this year's roundup. But it's hard to complain with a price tag of just under $400 delivered. Plus, Amazon buyers score free returns, too, in case it doesn't work out.

C Line Explore Folding Bike

You're probably buying a folding bike for its portability and transportability. Brompton's C Line Explore Folding Bike is as portable and compact as you're likely to find. It packs down to roughly two feet square by one foot thick—no small feat for an entire two-wheeler. That's practically small enough to stash in the overhead compartment of most planes (seriously!). Plus, it weighs just 27 pounds, making it one of the lightest-weight foldable models we've seen this year.

The all-steel frame is dang-near bulletproof and built to ride in seriously wet weather. It's built with Brompton's legendary quality and reliability, so it'll probably outlast you. The brand offers the C Line in a variety of colors, drivetrain setups, handlebar shapes, and even luggage systems, making it one of the most customizable folding bikes of 2024.

Read more: Best Hybrid Bikes

Link C8 Folding Bike

Like Brompton's ultra-compact C Line Explore folder, Tern's Link C8 is another great option for those looking for a portable, space-friendly folding bike. With a folded size of just 16" x 32" x 29" and a carry weight of a little over 28 pounds, it can fit in most small cars and in tight apartment closets.

Once unfolded, it boasts a solid set of specs designed to take you just about anywhere. The lightweight aluminum frame and eight-speed drivetrain make for easy riding on daily commutes or on more extended cross-town trips. We like that Tern includes smart details like Shimano rim brakes, twister-operated shifters, and fenders to keep you dry(-ish) in the rain. The one-size-fits-most design adjusts easily to accommodate riders between 4'8" and 6'3". But the best part? It's available for around $900 delivered.

XP 3.0 Black Long-Range eBike

Lectric offers some of the best budget-friendly electric bikes on the market. The XP 3.0 Long-Range eBike is no exception, with the brand's typical mix of solid construction, clever design, and great feature set. As the name implies, it's purpose-built for long-range riding, thanks to a long-range battery good for up 65 miles. Lectric adds in must-have essentials like mirrors, a phone mount, a bike lock, and a Comfort Package that includes a giant cushy seat and a suspension seat post.

"I've tested most of Lectric's e-bikes, and this is another winner. It's comfortable to ride (especially for a folder) out of the box, and the free Comfort Package makes it even more so," said writer Mike Richard. "I love that it comes almost fully assembled and ready to roll. Plus, at around $1,200 delivered , it's even cheaper than many premium non-electric options." The only real downside? The extended battery setup makes this a heavy-ish option at 64 pounds (including the seven-pound battery).

Liberte Lightweight Folding Bicycle

We get it: For some, every ounce matters. If you're using your folding bike regularly, a featherweight frame makes getting around on the daily so much easier. ZiZZO's Liberte Lightweight Folding Bicycle is the lightest bike worth buying we've seen this year. At around 23 pounds, it weighs about as much as three one-gallon water jugs, making it ridiculously easy to toss around and transport wherever you need it.

Don't let the featherweight construction fool you, though. The aluminum frame is sturdy and reliable, and every other component is too. The eight-speed Shimano drivetrain makes for easy shifting, while the 20-inch wheels are capable enough to tackle most terrain. It also collapses and unfolds easier than most other bikes we tested, allowing you to make quick work of putting it away and getting it ready to ride whenever you need it. Most surprisingly: It's available for less than $500 delivered (with free returns through Amazon!).

Read more: Best E-Bikes

Mars 2.0 Foldable Bike

For anyone who bikes to work or around town on the regular, an electric bike is amazing; and a folding electric bike is all the better. The Mars 2.0 from Hey Bike is one of the best value Class 3 electric folders on the market with a solid bang for your buck. It ticks all of our must-have boxes, including a strong 750-watt rear hub motor (with 1,200 watts of peak power), a 600Wh removable lithium-ion battery, and a top speed of up to 28 miles per hour. Coupled with 20" x 4" fat tires, it's more than equipped to get you around town and for even a little light off-roading after work.

Gear tester and MH writer Mike Richard found the Mars 2.0 to be "surprisingly comfortable to ride, especially for a folding bike. I completely credit the chunky tires and full suspension for that. The motor also feels peppier than most folders in this price range."

Judd Single-Speed Folding Bike

If price matters above all else, a single-speed folder is the best solution. Retrospec's Judd is a straightforward, no-frills option. For budget-conscious buyers, that's a very good thing. The aluminum frame is lightweight and portable, while 20" tires and coaster brakes keep the design dead-simple with everything you need and nothing you don't. That simplicity also makes for extremely low maintenance, allowing you to save more even after you buy.

At roughly 32" x 30" x 10", it isn't the most compact folder in this year's roundup, but those dimensions still ensure it's plenty portable for most riders. On the downside, this model is built strictly for sidewalks and smooth, paved surfaces. It probably goes without saying that this isn't made for off-road use. But, the one thing this folding bike has going for it above its competitors is price. At just under $300, it's one of the most affordable folders worth buying this year.

Folder Folding Bike

We've been fans of Priority bikes for years, so we were stoked to find they finally released a folding model. The aptly named Folder is a handsome, commuter-friendly option that's sleek, simple, and low-maintenance. At its core is a Gates Carbon Drive Belt mated to an internally geared Shimano Nexus 7-speed hub that keeps you riding smooth. The telescoping seatpost and adjustable stem make this another one-size-fits-most model that's easily swappable between riders of different heights.

Unfolded, it measures 60" long by 40" high but is surprisingly compact when collapsed down to its smallest footprint at around 30" x 31" x 16". We especially love the ridiculously simple three-step fold process that takes less than 20 seconds. The 29-pound weight puts it near the middle of the pack among the best folding bikes of the year.

Read more: Best Bike Trainers for Indoor Cycling

SP26S Folding Bike

Most folding bikes are designed for practicality and portability rather than pizazz. The most portable models are usually a little goofy looking with an exaggerated, disproportionate unicycle-esque vibe. Not so with Columba's SP26S that looks more like a traditional two-wheeler than any other model in our roundup. In fact, it's a legit 26-inch goer with "typical" bicycle proportions, making for a more comfortable and capable ride. That's thanks to oversized (by folding bike standards) tires and an 18-speed shifter and derailleur.

On the downside, it's larger than most folding models with a collapsed size of 38" x 14" x 29", so you may want to double-check the dimensions of your closet, car trunk, or apartment storage space to make sure it'll fit. It also tips the scales at a more traditional bike-like 33 pounds, making it one of the heavier options on this list. On the plus side, it folds and unfolds very easily, and the roughly $300 price tag (delivery included) means it's one of the most affordable folding bikes we'd recommend in 2024.

How to Find the Best Folding Bike for You

Like traditional two-wheelers, folding bikes come in all shapes and sizes. While there is no one best folding bike to rule them all, there are a few basic things to consider when shopping for the best folding bike for you .

As with traditional two-wheelers, wheel size matters. For folding bikes, the smaller the wheels, the more compact and portable the bike will be when folded. However, smaller wheels can also make riding over uneven terrain difficult or uncomfortable. The most common tire size for folding bikes is 20 inches, which provides a good balance of transportability and ride comfort. If you're planning to take your new folding bike away from smooth city surfaces, consider a model with fat tires of at least three, ideally four , inches for a more comfy ride.

Although they’re more portable overall, folding bikes are often heavier than comparably sized two-wheelers. If you’ll need to transport your new bike over longer distances (into and out of an office building, for example) or live in a fifth-floor walk-up, you’ll want to ensure you can physically carry it.

Portability

Some folding bikes are more portable than others. If you’re especially size-conscious, consider the folded or collapsed dimensions of any bike you’re shopping for to ensure it’ll fit inside your closet, under your bed, in the trunk of your car, or in whatever compact space you need it to fit.

Electric or Non-electric

Consider whether you want an electric or non-electric model. In the U.S., electric folding bikes are classified as Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3. Class 1 bikes are designed with a motor (maximum 750 watts) that "pedal-assists" your riding up to 20 miles per hour. Class 3 bikes are often equipped with a 750-watt motor but enough juice to take you up to 28 miles per hour. Some of the best folding electric bikes are designed as hybrid models. They may be sold as a Class 2 e-bike, for example, but customers have the option of "unlocking" Class 3 features.

Folding bikes vary widely in price. If you’re shopping on a budget, know that you can find a decent model for a few hundred dollars. Midrange models can be had for under $800. For those looking to splurge, however, there are plenty of high-end, premium options for several thousand dollars. It all depends on what features you’re looking for and how much you’re willing to spend.

Is It Worth Buying a Foldable Bike?

Folding bikes tend to prioritize being more portable than comfortable. That’s not to say folding bikes provide zero comfort. Most models feature smaller dimensions and smaller tires, which means they’re not going to be quite as cushy (especially on longer rides) as a full-sized two-wheeler. That said, a folding bike might be worth the trade-offs if you live in a small space, or storage is at a premium in your home.

What Is the Disadvantage of a Folding Bike?

Again, folding bikes tend to be smaller overall. The main reason this matters is that the (usually) smaller tires mean they’re not as comfortable to ride over long distances, like on an extended commute to work. They’re much better suited for sidewalks and smooth city streets over, say, hardcore trail riding or even gravel paths. They’re also typically more expensive than traditional bicycles since the designs and frames are more complex, and you’re paying for the convenience of that added portability.

Are Folding Bikes Hard to Pedal?

They’re not necessarily hard to pedal. But, due to their smaller dimensions and wheel size, they are usually harder to pedal and navigate than their full-sized counterparts. In our experience, it’s typically a matter of riding a new folding bike for a while to get used to the feel. Ultimately, however, it comes down to personal preference, so we recommend trying in-store before buying whenever possible.

Read More on the Best Biking Equipment

Best Folding E-Bikes | Cheap E-Bikes | Best Bike Helmets | Best Air Bikes | Best Exercise Bikes | Best Cycling Shorts

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How To Choose A Bike: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide For Every Cyclist

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If you’re in the market for a new bike, the hundreds, if not thousands, of options out there can make the journey feel overwhelming. Fortunately, our gear experts have bought a variety of bikes over the years, which has helped us put together a step-by-step guide on how to choose a bike. From demystifying frame sizes to the game-changing benefits of a professional fitting, we've packed it all in to ensure the bike you purchase is the right one for you.

Follow our comprehensive guide to choose the right bike that meets your needs.

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Start by thinking about how you intend to use your bike. Are you commuting to work, riding around town for fun, tackling trails or spending hours on the road? Understanding what purpose your bike will serve allows you to narrow down your options.

Road, Gravel, Mountain And Hybrid Bikes

Road, gravel, mountain and hybrid bikes are the predominant types you’re likely to encounter, and each have their own personalities that are perfect for different kinds of adventures.

• Road bikes : These are the speed demons of the bunch, zipping along smooth pavement with their sleek frames and skinny tires. True “road” bikes often come in a drop bar style that’s more aerodynamic and offers varying levels of comfort based on the bike. Don’t feel obligated to buy a drop bar bike if it doesn’t feel right—flat bar bikes (the more traditional approach) are perfectly fine as well.
• Gravel bikes : These are like the road bike’s adventurous cousin that’s ready to tackle anything from country lanes to off-road trails with their beefed-up tires and sturdy builds. These days, the trend is for gravel bikes to clear tires up to 50mm, which is more than most people need for a commute, but it gives you the flexibility to have a second set of wheels on hand for multiple kinds of riding without the need for another bike.
• Mountain bikes : As you can probably guess, these are built tough with suspension systems and knobby tires to conquer rocky trails and steep terrain. Different types of mountain bikes (enduro, hardtail, cross-country and so on) cater to different off-road pursuits.
• Hybrid bikes: These offer a bit of everything, with comfy seats, wider tires for stability and just enough toughness to handle a bit of off-roading while still cruising smoothly on the streets.

Different types of bikes cater to different scenarios.

Step 2: Set A Budget

As tempting as it may be to daydream over a pricey bike, figure out how much you’re willing to spend on a new ride before starting your search. Specific types of bikes with similar components will often fall into a specific price range, which makes it easier to determine how much you should expect to pay.

Keep in mind that higher-end components and lightweight frame materials like carbon are more expensive—the key is to find a bike that strikes a balance between price and capability. And while you’re putting a budget together, don't forget to factor in the cost of gear, like a helmet , shoes and even a hitch rack , if you don’t have the essentials.

Bike Frame Materials

There are three main frame materials to choose from: carbon fiber, titanium and aluminum/steel.

• Carbon fiber: This is the most popular choice for higher-end bikes—you can find full carbon frames in the sub-$3,000 price category. It’s a flexible material with a comfortable ride quality and the engineering allows it to mold into just about any shape, which is why bike manufacturers like it. One of the not-so-secret secrets of mid-range to higher-end carbon bike frames is that unless they’re made in Europe or America, they most likely come from the same handful of factories in Taiwan.
• Titanium: This material is popular among enthusiasts for a stiffer ride and bombproof durability.“It does a remarkable job absorbing high-frequency vibrations and low-frequency impacts from things like potholes,” says Moots president Nate Bradley. Titanium is typically more expensive than carbon, but it’s built for life. Bradley adds that metals can bend to absorb impact, whereas carbon is ultimately trying to resist bending until it delaminates, cracks or fails “catastrophically.” It is much more complicated to repair a carbon frame compared to titanium or steel, although both processes are expensive.
• Aluminum And Steel: It’s getting harder to find a quality aluminum bike, but “steel is real” for commuters and certain road bikes. Aluminum and steel frames are cheaper, but they still maintain high durability and easy repairability compared to their carbon counterparts.

Carbon fiber bikes offer a lightweight, compliant ride for hours of comfort in the saddle.

Step 3: Determine The Right Size

Getting the right size bike is key to long-term comfort and performance. If you're not sure what size you need, pop into a local bike shop, where a team can help guide you to the right bike that fits your dimensions. Plus, it’s never a bad idea to start a healthy relationship with a local shop for maintenance and part needs if you don’t plan on tackling repairs at home.

If you intend to buy from a direct-to-consumer (DTC) brand that doesn’t work with local bike shops, refer to the brand’s online size chart that often uses your height and inner leg length to recommend a size; from our experience, these tend to be accurate.

Step 4: Test Ride

Once you have a short list of bikes that meet your needs and fall within your budget, it’s time to take each of them for a test ride. Like visiting a car dealership to test drive a new vehicle, test riding a bike helps you understand if it’s comfortable, and it’s a great opportunity to familiarize yourself with a bike’s features.

This is also a great time to discuss sizing if you’re still unsure of what size bike to get, which might be the case if you fall between sizes. Share any noticeable discomforts so the experts can make minor adjustments to the seat, handlebars and head tube—these changes can drastically improve comfort.

Bicycle Components

If you’ve ever seen a luxury car commercial, you know the manufacturer is advertising their top-of-the-line car, and in a similar way, the bike industry has a habit of putting the highest-end (and most expensive) bikes on its advertising. While these bikes look great, the vast majority of riders don’t necessarily need that level of performance.

For newer or mid-range riders, here’s a short list of some componentry to look for that strikes a balance between price and capability:

• Shimano 105 : This is an excellent drivetrain choice that’s slightly higher on Shimano’s model list, but it’s a quality, easily-serviceable mid-range choice with dependable parts (such as chainrings, chains and derailleurs). Shimano also just released the Essa system as an affordable, commuter-focused option.
• SRAM Apex And Rival : While Rival is the American company’s legacy mid-range system, Apex is its newest, and perhaps best value. Rival is still available in a mechanical set while Apex is only electronic (you’ll see it named “AXS”). Apex is typically reserved for gravel bikes while Rival is for road and gravel.
• Campagnolo : Known as “Campy” in some corners of the bike world, this is a legacy Italian brand known for similar ranges as SRAM and Shimano, but more for a specific kind of bike enthusiast. The brand isn’t as popular in the U.S. as it once was, but it remains a very good option for certain riders. There is absolutely nothing wrong with a Campy drivetrain, but it can be harder to find replacement parts.
• MicroShift : Unless you’re really hunting for a bargain, it’s probably best to avoid MicroShift. The brand is getting better in terms of quality, but for similar pricing, you should be able to find a much more reliable, gently-used option from Shimano or SRAM.

Different componentry will influence your bike's abilities on and off the beaten path.

Step 5: Schedule A Bike Fitting

As easy as it may be to hop on a bike and ride off into the sunset, we cannot stress enough the importance a professional bike fitting, especially if you’re investing in a performance-oriented bike. A professional fitter will assess your goals and your experience on a bike as well as your dimensions to make small adjustments that improve comfort and pedaling efficiency.

Additional Buying Advice

Because the bike industry exploded as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, there are more used bikes on the secondhand market than ever before. If you don’t mind a bike from a couple of seasons ago, you can often find a really great deal on a really great bike. Stick with a reputable site like Pink Bike or The Pro’s Closet , or head to a shop that backs up their used bikes with quality guarantees.

Shop DTC To Spend Less

A growing number of the best bike brands sell direct to the consumer, or DTC, as a means of sidestepping a relationship with a local bike shop to save you money, and these are a great option if you’ve done your research on a brand you like. Even big brands like Specialized are moving online and away from the dealer model.

What About Electric Bikes?

Stuart Sundell-Norlin, associate category merchandise manager at Christy Sports , specializes in helping riders find sensible e-bikes they’ll actually use.

“There are more options than ever are out there to get yourself into an e-bike with great sale pricing both at the dealer and vendor levels,” he says, “with no shortage of price points.”

There are power-assisted models available for just about every need. Popular cargo bikes often have a hub-drive motor located in the rear wheel while commuter- and performance-oriented electric bikes have the battery in the middle of the frame. Higher-spec bikes will have that battery built in, which is better for performance, but also more difficult to service.

Sundell-Norlin notes that if you have any interest in using an e-bike off-road, a mountain-specific model could be a great choice. There are also a growing number of “e-gravel” options that mirror their non-electric siblings.

Much like buying an electric vehicle, don’t get caught up in the formal range ratings for an e-bike. “Range will vary with rider weight, usage habits and terrain,” Sundell-Norlin explains. “A fully-loaded bike with groceries will certainly have less range than its empty counterpart.”

How Much Should A Beginner Bike Cost?

For beginners, considering a mid-level bike in the price range of $1,000 to $1,500 is a smart move. These bikes offer a step up in quality with reliable Shimano or SRAM components, known for their smooth performance and durability. By investing a bit more, you'll enjoy smoother shifting, better braking and overall improved ride quality compared to cheaper options. Plus, mid-level bikes often come with lighter frames and more comfortable features, making your experience more enjoyable, especially on longer rides.

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Here's how to park, travel and bike to Artisphere 2024 in downtown Greenville this weekend

Artisphere 2024 , presented by TD Bank, is expected to draw nearly 93,000 visitors to the downtown area this upcoming Mother's Day weekend, from May 10 to 12.

The free three-day fine arts festival will span from Court Street and Main Street to Wardlaw and Main Street from noon on Friday, May 10, through 6 p.m. on Sunday, May 12. This event will allow the public to meet and discuss creative works alongside world-class visiting and local artists.

While carpooling and ridesharing services might be the easiest way to travel to Artisphere, festival attendees have many other travel and parking options.

Here are some of the best places to park and things to consider for travel to Artisphere 2024:

Festival News: Artisphere 2024: Dates, vendors, food, art what to know about the three-day arts festival

Road closures during Artisphere 2024

On Thursday, May 9, road closures near the downtown area will start in preparation for Artisphere. According to the city of Greenville, the current listed road closures for the weekend are:

• May 9 to 13, between 9 a.m. to midnight, Main Street from Court Street to Wardlaw Street; Broad Street from Laurens Street to Fall Street.
• May 11 to 13, between 7 p.m. and midnight, River/Augusta Street from Boggs Street to University Street.

Parking garages near downtown for Artisphere 2024

According to the city of Greenville helpdesk, all parking garages will be open and available to enter during Artisphere. The event rate is $5 for all-day access. If parking structure users leave, they must pay again upon re-entry.

There are 10 parking garages and two lots in the downtown vicinity. The online link to view parking openings can be found on the city of Greenville's website .

Riverplace Parking Grage will prioritize all monthly parking pass holders over festival parking.

Need assistance? Greenville's mobile app helps people with disabilities have better access in downtown

Street parking near Artisphere 2024 grounds

Street parking can be hit or miss near the downtown areas during the festival season; however, there are a few locations near the festival grounds that are often available.

For the best parking options near downtown, park on the east end of Falls Street (next to Main) and use Broad Street, East McBee Avenue, East Washington Street, or East North Street.

On the northwest side of Artisphere grounds, South Academy Street and Falls Park Drive (near River Street) have a few parking spaces that are often available for a quick walk to the festival.

On the West End (near Fluor Field), park on South Main Street, anywhere close to Pendleton Street, or look for side roads like Rhett Street, Watson Avenue, McCall Street, and Grace Street to find parking.

A Look Back: Artisphere's 20-year history, how it helped draw attention to downtown Greenville, arts

Bike services are available for Artisphere 2024

Bike Walk Greenville will provide a free bike valet service under the Main Street Bridge along the Swamp Rabbit Trail.

The bike valet service will be available on Saturday from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m., as bikes will be stored in a secure location without parking or traffic issues.

For more information, visit bikewalkgreenville.org .

Will any bus services through Greenlink change during Artisphere?

Greenlink Transit cannot service stop 1003 on East McBee Avenue and Falls Street (Route 501 and 510). That specific route will be detoured from 8:30 a.m. until 2 p.m.

– A.J. Jackson covers the food & dining scene, along with arts, entertainment and downtown culture for The Greenville News. Contact him by email at [email protected], and follow him on X (formally Twitter) @ajhappened. This coverage is only possible with support from our readers. Sign up today for a digital subscription .  

Statue of Lenin

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Statue of Lenin - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• (0.57 mi) Elektrostal Hotel
• (1.00 mi) Yakor Hotel
• (1.31 mi) Hotel Djaz
• (1.41 mi) Mini Hotel Banifatsiy
• (1.45 mi) MTM Hostel Elektrostal
• (0.07 mi) Teremok
• (0.21 mi) Coffee Shop Usy Teodora Glagoleva
• (0.25 mi) Mazhor
• (0.30 mi) Tashir Pizza
• (0.31 mi) Ermitazh

Last Mile Delivery EVs

Cargo e-bikes have gotten so big, this one has six wheels and can jackknife.

It’s true: cargo e-bikes are replacing trucks and vans for city deliveries like we’ve never seen before. With an ever-increasing push towards removing those heavy vehicles from our roads, larger electric cargo bikes are starting to pop up, offering to handle more of the loads typically seen carried by trucks. The new Cityshuttle ePack4 is the latest, and perhaps the biggest, to grace the streets.

Cityshuttle’s new cargo e-bike is based on a four-wheeled design that tows a cargo trailer with its own pair of wheels. The setup looks vaguely like your typical 18-wheeler semi-truck, just with a third of the wheels and 150th of the weight.

Riding on bicycle tires and featuring an electric bicycle drivetrain, the ePack4 may look like a delivery truck, but it’s all bike under the hood.

Innovative suspension in the cab and trailer provides a smoother ride for the operator and cargo without sacrificing cargo space. Hand controls follow typical recumbent trike designs, while the bubble nose extends far enough for the rider to operate the pedals.

And for added efficiency and reduced complexity, the designers have eschewed the typical bicycle drivetrain that uses a chain or belt, and instead replaced it with a drive-by-wire system. These are becoming increasingly common in large cargo e-bikes that don’t want to sacrifice cargo space to a chain run, and instead use a generator at the pedals to transfer the energy to the rear wheel, no chains needed.

The ePack4 features four cubic meters of cargo space, or around 140 cubic feet, and can support up to 350 kg of load (771 pounds).

The rear trailer is so big that the company touts its added value as selling digital advertising space as it slips past stopped traffic via the bike lane.

And in case you’re wondering, yes, the bike is apparently legal in bike lanes in the UK, where Cityshuttle is based. The same goes for much of Europe, but for other areas operators will likely need to check the local regulations.

To cater to delivery businesses and courier services, Cityshuttle has outfitted the ePack4 with a number of added features, including GPS tracking, remote fleet management, and a live CCTV feed.

Top comment by Don Reba

Looking forward to SUVs in my bike lane.

For those that don’t need a massive four cubic meters of storage, there’s also a half-sized two cubic meter trailer option, a tipper trailer, a flat bed, and even a refrigerated trailer. According to the company, a trailer swap takes just two minutes.

“We are thrilled to introduce the ePack4, the world’s largest last-mile cargo delivery bike,” explained company founder Keith Jones in a comment provided to Electrek . “Green in colour, green by nature. We are looking to become the go-to manufacturer for last-mile logistics. Whether it’s cargo, refrigerated, local authorities, we have a flexible solution for all.”

The ePack4 is currently manufactured in the UK, and the company expects to begin larger volume production in 2025. For now, Cityshuttle is focusing on expanding its market in the UK and Europe, where the company claims to be “already generating significant interest.”

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Micah Toll is a personal electric vehicle enthusiast, battery nerd, and author of the Amazon #1 bestselling books DIY Lithium Batteries , DIY Solar Power,   The Ultimate DIY Ebike Guide  and The Electric Bike Manifesto .

The e-bikes that make up Micah’s current daily drivers are the $999 Lectric XP 2.0 , the $1,095 Ride1Up Roadster V2 , the $1,199 Rad Power Bikes RadMission , and the $3,299 Priority Current . But it’s a pretty evolving list these days.

You can send Micah tips at [email protected], or find him on Twitter , Instagram , or TikTok .

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trek roscoe mountain bike for sale

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Trek Roscoe 6 - 2024

Roscoe 6 is the ideal gateway to mountain biking for new riders looking to have a fun time on the trail. It boosts confidence with a 140mm travel air-spring fork that soaks up bumps and roots, an easy-to-use 1x Shimano CUES drivetrain, and playful frame geometry that makes it easier to control your bike on technical trails and winding singletrack. It's right for you if... You know there are good times to be had on the trail, and you want to be part of them! You're looking for an easy entry to the sport of mountain biking on a bike that will keep you excited and motivated to get out there day after day. The tech you get A strong aluminum frame, fast-rolling 29er wheels with wide, grippy 2.6" tires, and an SR Suntour fork with 140mm of travel. It has a trail-tough Shimano CUES drivetrain with 9 speeds and a wide range of gears for climbing, hydraulic disc brakes, and a dropper post for extra room on rough trails. The final word Roscoe 6 is your new best friend on the trail. It's patient, playful, and confidence-inspiring. It's all about getting out there, having fun, and enjoying the great sport of trail riding! Why you'll love it - It's more fun to be a better rider: Roscoe is so stable and forgiving, it's like an instant ability upgrade - 29er wheels and wide 2.6" tires make for a grippy, confident, and fast-rolling ride - The dropper post lets you lower your saddle on the fly so it's out of the way on descents - Its 140mm suspension fork has plenty of travel to soak up big roots and rocks Features: Ready to get rowdy With 140mm front travel, trail-smashing 29-inch wheels, and dialed-for-dirt frame features, Roscoe is ready to get rowdy on your favorite rides. Progressive trail geometry A long reach, slack head angle, steep seat angle, and short chain stays combine for a ride that's confidence-inspiring, yet still nimble and fun. The strong quiet type Roscoe stays well protected with a double-sided chainstay guard, tough downtube guard, and internal cable guides that help your ride stay quiet, even over rough trails. Shimano CUES Inspired by rider demand for trouble-free drivetrain longevity and performance, Shimano CUES offers a new foundation for versatility and durability across a range of both electric and standard bikes. CUES features Shimano’s new LINKGLIDE drivetrain technology for significantly increased life on wear items like chains, cassettes, and chainrings. Shimano LINKGLIDE LINKGLIDE technology has been specifically engineered for incredible durability while still delivering smooth and decisive shifting – along with a great pedaling experience. Available exclusively on Shimano CUES drivetrains. Upgrade your pedals and love your bike more Pedals are two of the five touchpoints that connect you with your bike, and even though this bike comes with a pair, upgrading to pedals that boost control and grip will greatly improve your ride. See the pedal guide and find the best pedals for your riding style. We recommend flat pedals for simple versatility.

* Subject to change without notice.

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Trek roscoe 7 review.

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Trek Roscoe 24

Roscoe 24 is a mid-fat kids' mountain bike designed to build confidence on the trail. It takes cues from the adult Roscoe, but this ride was built from the ground up for kids. 2.8" mid-fat tires, a 1x drivetrain, and a wide-range cassette make Roscoe the ideal bike for little rippers who want to build skills and have a ridiculous amount of fun keeping up with Mom, Dad, or an older sibling. Fit for riders 51-59" tall. It's right for you if... Your little shredder is ready to hop off the neighborhood streets and onto the trail, and you want to get them started the right way with a real-deal mountain bike that builds skills and confidence from the outset. If you're looking to teach your little one the wisdom of the trail, there's no better teaching tool than Roscoe. The tech you get A durable Alpha Gold Aluminum frame with a sloping top tube for added clearance, 24" wheels with mid-fat 2.8" tires for added traction and stability, a 1x8 Shimano drivetrain with a wide-range cassette for hills and technical sections, mechanical disc brakes, and loads of thoughtful details borrowed from adult MTB tech, like a closed front dropout and a tucked-in rear brake caliper so when kids drop their Roscoe it doesn't mean an automatic trip to the shop for a replacement part. The final word Give a kid a Roscoe and you'll make a mountain biker for life. Mid-fat tires and a wealth of kid-specific design details make this bike the perfect introduction to the trail. If your little one is ready to tag along when you hit the singletrack, this is the kid-friendly set-up that's made to build confidence, skills, and a healthy obsession with the world's greatest activity. Why you'll love it - There's no family outing as fun as a trail session, and Roscoe is the ideal kids' bike for building great memories - This isn't a small adult bike—it's built from the ground up for kids, by people who know exactly what works for them and what doesn't - When you're learning to ride, simplicity is best: a 1x8 drivetrain lets kids focus on keeping the rubber side down - The kid-specific frame geometry has a sloping top tube that makes it easier to hop on and off - The rear brake caliper is tucked into the frame to help prevent damage from laying the bike down

Due to supply-chain issues, Specs are subject to change without notice.

Trek has slashed up to 30% off bikes and gear in its sale. I've picked out the best MTB bargains on offer

TrekFest is on now and there are huge discounts on MTBs, e-MTBs and top Trek and Bontrager gear

1. US Bike Deals

2. uk bike deals, 3. us and uk gear deals.

Trek has launched its 'TrekFest' sale, and not to be outdone by its North-American rivals Specialized, who also have a Spring Sale on, TrekFest has some mega-discounts. There are site-wide price-cuts on a wide selection of mountain bikes like its best budget hardtail – the Trek Marlin and some of its highly rated e-MTB models like the Trek Fuel EXe. There are also deals from Trek's in-house brand Bontrager, which manufactures MTB helmets , shoes, and lots more...

I've had a hunt around both the Trek US and Trek UK sites and picked out the best deals on offer and added what I think are some of highlights below. The discounts are currently live but end soon. So I'd suggest if something catches your eye, don't hang around, because they are bound to be snapped up quickly.

Marlin 8 Gen 2: Was $1,329.99, now $999 Trek says the Marlin is its most popular budget hardtail mountain bike. This aluminum framed Gen 2 version has a $330 discount with a build that features a RockShox Judy Silver fork, a SRAM SX Eagle 12-spd drivetrain and Shimano hydraulic disc brakes. The Bontrager Kovee wheels are tubeless ready and they roll on Maxxis Ardent Race rubber.

Available in two color choices, sized from XXS-XL.

Fuel EXe 9.9 XTR: Was $12,999 , now $11,999 The Fuel EXe 9.9 XTR is one of Trek's best electric mountain bikes . Built around its OCLV Mountain Carbon frame, the Fuel has a 360Wh battery that powers a TQ motor which puts out 50Nm of torque and 250 watts of maximum continuous power.

You also get 150mm of RockShox Lyrik Ultimate fork travel paired with 140mm of RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate rear suspension. A Shimano XTR drivetrain, Bontrager carbon wheels and a Bontrager dropper post make up a very nicely specced e-MTB that currently has a $1,000 discount.

Four colors and all sizes are available S-XL.

Rail 9.8 XT Gen 4: Was $8,999, now $7,999 Another discounted electric mountain bike from the Trek line-up is the Trek Rail 9.8 . The brand's long-travel carbon framed enduro e-MTB comes with the Bosch Performance Line CX motor , a long-range 750Wh battery and 85Nm of trail-shredding power.

Adding to the Rail's spec highlights is a 170mm RockShox ZEB Select+ fork , and RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate shock with a Shimano XT 1x12 drivetrain. Four colors and all the sizing are available plus a tasty $1,000 discount.

Top Fuel 9.8 XT: Was $7,049, now $5,899 Trek's Top Fuel is one of the best cross-country mountain bikes on the market. Lightweight, carbon-framed and has another brilliant line-up of components that make it a bit of a bargain with its current $1,150 discount.

The Top Fuel has a 120mm RockShox SID Select+ fork , 120mm of rear travel with a RockShox SID Luxe Ultimate shock , and a Shimano XT drivetrain. Bontrager Line Elite 30 carbon wheels and a Bontrager Line Elite Dropper complete the spec.

Roscoe 8: Was $2,399, now $1,999 The Trek Roscoe 8 is another entry-level hardtail with a specification ready for some serious cross-country riding. This Roscoe build features a lightweight aluminum frame, a 140mm RockShox 35 Gold fork , a SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain, 4-piston brakes, and a dropper post. 

A $400 discount and sizes XS-XL are available in two size color options.

Slash 9.9 XX1 Gen 5: Was $12,549, now $9,999 Trek say the Slash 9.9 is its best enduro mountain bike in the range. It's also the go-to bike for the Trek Factory Racing Enduro team. This model has a $2,500 discount and you get a bike ready for anything. 

A full carbon frame, hard-hitting suspension with RockShox Flight Attendant , Bontrager carbon wheels, and a SRAM XX1 Eagle drivetrain make this top-of-the-line ride a very attractive buy with the current discount. Available in all sizes and the very stealthy-looking Lithium Gray colorway.

Marlin 8 Gen 3: Was £1,025, now £825 The Trek Marlin Gen 3 is the latest model of its popular budget hardtail mountain bike. The Gen 3 has an updated geometry, and the alloy frame features a RockShox Judy Silver fork, a SRAM SX Eagle 12-spd drivetrain and Shimano hydraulic disc brakes. This latest model also gets a TranzX dropper post too.

Available in two color choices, but with limited sizing, grab it while you can.

Top Fuel 9.8 XT: Was £6,100, now £4,270 Trek's Top Fuel is one of the best cross-country mountain bikes on the market. Lightweight, carbon-framed and has another brilliant line-up of components.

Top Fuel has a 120mm RockShox SID Select+ fork , 120mm of rear travel with a RockShox SID Luxe Ultimate shock , and a Shimano XT drivetrain. Bontrager Line Elite 30 carbon wheels and a Bontrager Line Elite Dropper complete the spec.

Roscoe 8: Was £1,675, now £1,394 The Trek Roscoe 8 is another entry-level hardtail with a specification ready for XC riding. This Roscoe build features an aluminum frame, a 140mm RockShox 35 Gold fork , a SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain, 4-piston brakes, and a dropper post. 

A £280 discount and sizes XS-XL are available in two size color options.

Slash 9.8 XT Gen 5: Was £6,000, now £4,500 Trek say the Slash 9.8 is one of its best enduro bike models coming with the brand's OCLV Mountain Carbon frame. It features a massive 160mm of travel from the highly-rated RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate shock , paired with a RockShox ZEB Select+ fork and 170mm of travel. 

Only available Lithium Gray colorway and sizes M-XL.

Bontrager Foray MTB Shoes: US: Were $159, now $111 UK: Were £159, now £111 Trek says the Foray shoe is a versatile MTB shoe ready for trail riding and even cyclocross. Its versatility makes it one of the best gravel shoes too.

Foray has a Boa L6 dial for a customizable fit, a stiff sole and a durable upper featuring the added protection of GnarGuard – a rubberised coating that protects against abrasions and other damage. Four color choices and a ton of sizing are available.

Trek Line Elite Pedals: US: Were $119, now $94 UK: Were £109, now £76 The Trek Line Elite are SPD-compatible clipless MTB pedals . Dual-sided and made from forged aluminum, which they say makes them durable and lightweight. They have an easy clipping-in platform and a stylish aesthetic look to back up the performance features.

Bontrager Line 31.6 Dropper Post: Was £199, now £139 The Bontrager Line 31.6 dropper post has everything needed to contend as one of the best dropper posts around. It has internal cable routing and should provide reliable and infinite adjustability. This discounted version comes with 170mm of travel and allows fine-tuning with easy-fit 10mm or 30mm travel-reducer spacers.

Bontrager Flatline Shoes: Were $139, now $99 Were £139, now £97 The best flat mountain bike shoes should deliver plenty of grip to keep you connected to the pedals. The Bontrager Flatline tick the boxes here and comes with a grippy Vibram outsole, that partners up with a reinforced toe box for protection and durability.

They come in three stylish colorways – Black, Olive and Charcoal (the Gum sole on the Charcoal is very cool) and loads of sizes are available.

Trek Rally WaveCel Helmet: US: Was $159, now $119 UK: Was £149, £104 The Trek Rally has the Virginia Tech 5 Star safety rating which makes it a great choice as one of the best MTB helmets available. Featuring WaveCel, which is a collapsible cellular safety structure that protects the head during a crash. It also has a Boa fit system and an adjustable visor.

Loads of colors and sizing are available.

Bontrager Rally MTB Shoe: US: Were $149, now $119 UK: Were £149, now £104 The Rally is a clipless mountain shoe and is made from a super durable design with an abrasion-resistant coating and a reinforced, durable toe box for protection.

They also offer a more relaxed fit for comfort on the bike but plenty of support making them a highly practical trail MTB shoe. Five color and plenty of sizes are available.

Based in Edinburgh, Paul Brett is a staff writer for  BikePerfect.com . He has been an avid cyclist for as long as he can remember, initially catching the mountain biking bug in the 1990s, and raced mountain bikes for over a decade before injury cut short a glittering career. He’s since developed an obsession for gravel riding and recently has dabbled in the dark art of cyclocross. A fan of the idea of bikepacking he has occasionally got involved and has ridden routes like the North Coast 500, Scotland and the Via Francigena (Pilgrim Route), Italy.

Current rides: Marin Alpine Trail 2, Ribble 725, Cube Stereo 160

Height: 175cm

Specialized has a massive sale on – with up to 50% off bikes and gear. Here's my pick of the biggest MTB and off-road bargains

Forget Amazon, Muc-Off has a massive 30% sale right now. Get huge deals on cleaning products, lubes, tubeless kits and more...

Could this be the most expensive camper van ever created? It's well-prepped for wild mountain bike adventures but the price is just insane

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Trek offering up to 30% off bikes and parts in crazy april mtb sale.

Specialized is offering up to 50% off some of its most popular premium mountain bike, and Trek isn’t trailing far behind. The brand’s 140mm trail bike range offers some stellar deals. You can get a Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS for only £9,499.95, a tidy discount from this e-bike’s usual retail price of £13,500.  

• Cycling motivation: 8 tips to get you back on the bike
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Fancy the advanced Fuel EX frame and geometry, but don’t require a mid-drive motor to assist with pedalling? The Fuel EX 9.9 XX1 AXS Gen 6 is selling for only £7,994.50, as opposed to its usual list price of £11,800. 

Trek has slashed prices on its long-travel 29er enduro bike, too. The Slash 9.8 XT Gen 5 is selling at 25% off, for only £4,500, which gets you a RockShox ZEB fork, Shimano XT 1x12 drivetrain, four-piston brakes and Line Elite 30 carbon wheels, with a 108T internals gearing the rear hub. 

Dedicated trail and enduro riders value dropper posts but if your dropper needs replacement or upgrading, Bontrager Line Elite droppers are only £251.99 discounted from £359.99. These dropper post deals apply to both 34.9- and 31.6mm diameter Line Elites. 

Beyond bikes and components, the Trek sale includes apparel and accessories. Keen on some lightweight, ultra-efficient carbon-sole kicks? Bontrager XXX shoes are marked down by 30% from £349.99 to £244.99. 

Helmets? The best deal is Bontrager’s Rally WaveCel lid. With extended coverage for skull base protection and an interweaved structure featuring the WaveCel energy absorbing and dispersing material, these helmets are great for trail and enduro riders who desire enhanced safety. Bontrager’s premium Rally mountain bike helmets are now only £89.99, instead of £149.99. 

What’s the cheapest deal with Trek’s big sale? That will be the Bontrager left-side load water bottle cage. A handy upgrade (literally), especially for endurance mountain bikers and riders on XS frames, at only £6.99. 

Trek’s sale runs until the end of April.

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You might also like:

• 9 tips to keep your suspension running sweeter for longer
• Opinion: You don't need a dropper post on your gravel bike
• Best way to transport mountain bikes

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Lance Branquinho

Lance Branquinho is a Namibian-born media professional who graduated to mountain biking after injuries curtailed his fascination with trail running. He has a weakness for British steel hardtails, especially those which only run a single gear. Lance is an award-winning writer who has contributed to myriad piblications all over the world including Cyclingnews, Bike Perfect, MBR, Topgear, TopCar and  Car magazine.

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"I'm stoked"

"I think it's the best looking bike in it's price range, the fit works great for me, and the drivetrain is excellent."

"Ready to rumble"

"Has the chops to squeeze every last drop of fun from local park trails, plus the talent to conquer black diamond terrain on the weekends."

"Much more capable downhill than I would have ever imagined; then, when I finished a lap and turned around to pedal back up, I was pleasantly surprised by the comfort and efficiency of the Roscoe’s climbing position."

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Trek Roscoe 6, comes with zefel frame pouch, bontrager under seat pouch with tube repair kit, bontrager air pump .installed taffy tire liners. Have paperwork

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Analysis of real estate market in Moscow Oblast, Russia:

40 Facts About Elektrostal

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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Geographic coordinates of Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia

City coordinates

Coordinates of Elektrostal in decimal degrees

Coordinates of elektrostal in degrees and decimal minutes, utm coordinates of elektrostal, geographic coordinate systems.

WGS 84 coordinate reference system is the latest revision of the World Geodetic System, which is used in mapping and navigation, including GPS satellite navigation system (the Global Positioning System).

Geographic coordinates (latitude and longitude) define a position on the Earth’s surface. Coordinates are angular units. The canonical form of latitude and longitude representation uses degrees (°), minutes (′), and seconds (″). GPS systems widely use coordinates in degrees and decimal minutes, or in decimal degrees.

Latitude varies from −90° to 90°. The latitude of the Equator is 0°; the latitude of the South Pole is −90°; the latitude of the North Pole is 90°. Positive latitude values correspond to the geographic locations north of the Equator (abbrev. N). Negative latitude values correspond to the geographic locations south of the Equator (abbrev. S).

Longitude is counted from the prime meridian ( IERS Reference Meridian for WGS 84) and varies from −180° to 180°. Positive longitude values correspond to the geographic locations east of the prime meridian (abbrev. E). Negative longitude values correspond to the geographic locations west of the prime meridian (abbrev. W).

UTM or Universal Transverse Mercator coordinate system divides the Earth’s surface into 60 longitudinal zones. The coordinates of a location within each zone are defined as a planar coordinate pair related to the intersection of the equator and the zone’s central meridian, and measured in meters.

Elevation above sea level is a measure of a geographic location’s height. We are using the global digital elevation model GTOPO30 .

Elektrostal , Moscow Oblast, Russia

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Find the right bike route for you through Elektrostal, where we've got 327 cycle routes to explore. The routes you most commonly find here are of the hilly type. Most people get on their bikes to ride here in the months of June and August.

* calculated weighted mean of apartment cost per 1 square foot/meter in Elektrostal secondary housing market. Among prices in range from 30 to 200 thousand Rub/m² for Elektrostal.Among apartments with area in range: from 20 to 350 m², from 215 to 3767 ft².

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Geographic coordinates of Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia in WGS 84 coordinate system which is a standard in cartography, geodesy, and navigation, including Global Positioning System (GPS). Latitude of Elektrostal, longitude of Elektrostal, elevation above sea level of Elektrostal.