Enduro/trail bikes - what's good?

Deviate Highlander (II)?

Bird Aether 9 carbon?

The new Hightower is supposed to be a good all rounder.

Trek Fuel EX reviews well.

More leftfield (and steel) would be a Starling but think lead times are quite long.

Ibis ripmo fits that description , might be some deals to be had at the moment . Forbidden druid , never ridden one but I think they look great. Is the Hope bike a full on enduro bike ?

If I had the money I'd be tempted by an Atherton , wasn't sure at first but they are growing on me .

I’ve got an alloy sentinel and like it a lot. Carbon is the same but a chunk lighter.

I think the Fox X2 and the Sentinel don’t get on but other shocks seem to be fine. I’ve got a float x and a Kitsuma coil and all seemed fine so far - had the bike about a year and a half. As standard with the float x I’d say it felt like a long travel trail bike - but with a nice slack head angle so it makes me feel more confident on steep tech.

I added a cascade link and coil shock and it’s now amazing through rocky chunder but still happy to pop off stuff.

The Strive is a full on race enduro bike so I’d swerve that based on your comments.

Atherton looks great to me - just check dropper insertion gets your as much drop as you like. At 5’9 on a medium sentinel I’m running a Oneup v2 210mm dropper which is ace.

I’ve ridden a Nukeproof Mega 297 back to back with the sentinel when I had an air shock and it felt plusher by quite a bit - although it was running a Fox 38 performance elite and ext coil so probably not a fair comparison (I’m running a Lyrik ultimate). So I suspect in outright smashing stuff terms the mega would be faster. Been some really good deals on the Mega recently.

Had a quick go on a carbon Stumpie Evo - I think it’s relatively similar to the Sentinel - although if it matters to you the yoke can’t really be used with most coil shocks as it knackers them. You’d want one with a large shaft diameter (I.e not Fox) - maybe something like a dvo.

YT Capra.

Everyone I know that has a Stumpy Evo absolutely loves them for our local riding.
Two of those people also had Enduros to go with their Evos and the sold the Enduros.
They both say they're faster on the Evo than the Enduro.

Mrsstu also has an Evo and it's been a very reliable bike that's quite and easy to live with.

Excellent thanks all.

Deviate Highlander (II)?

Forgot about that, thanks

Bird Aether 9 carbon?

130mm aren't they? would like something bigger than that

The new Hightower is supposed to be a good all rounder.

I would like to try and get to a Santa Cruz demo to try the different models, but at present I think I want something different.

Trek Fuel EX reviews well.

Haven't looked at these. Thanks

More leftfield (and steel) would be a Starling

Never tried a steel bike. Think I'm set on carbon. Lugging bikes up Lakes fells means weight is definitely a consideration.

YT Capra

Bit of a beast arent they?

Ibis ripmo fits that description , might be some deals to be had at the moment . Forbidden druid , never ridden one but I think they look great. Is the Hope bike a full on enduro bike ?

Ibis doesn't appeal to me. Druid I would definitely demo but wouldn't buy without trying first. Hope has 6+ month lead time.

Of those mentioned, I'd probably go for the Spectral on the balance of cost, geometry & features.

I have a Starling and love it, but wouldn't recommend as a race bike. It can feel a bit sluggish when you're trying to make progress on the flatter bits or get back up to speed after a mistake.

Left field suggestion - Orange Stage 6 Evo. Which is now 140/150 and very fast & light. Or the previous model Stage 6 150/160. Bit flighty compared to some of the bikes mentioned, but so fast.

Maybe the Vitus Escarpe with a slackset for a budget option?

The Stumpy Evo is clearly a brilliant bike, but the looks aren't for me and it must be due an update pretty soon?

I’ve got a Stumpjumper Evo 2022 model.

Frankly it’s brilliant. Really good build quality and well thought out. Great to ride and very flexible.

One of the best features about it is the adjustable geometry. As opposed to my previous bike with a flip chip where I tried it in high and low and then left it in low all the time, on the SJE it properly makes a difference. Yesterday I had it in low and slack mode for uplift at Dyfi, today I’ll make it high and steep for Coed Y Brenin and when I’m off to the Alps in a few weeks I’ll put it in mid high mode for all the alpine switchbacks.

Each mode makes it feel like a different bike.

WRT shocks, there are some coil shocks that are compatible, including the ‘23 model Super Deluxe coil at the cheaper end of the spectrum, or the Eleven-Six, Storia and TTX if you want to get more spendy.

The only thing I’d say is that looking at the new Levo SL that’s come out, I’d be very surprised if the SJE doesn’t get updated to something very similar soon, although it’s pretty much the same geometry, just the ability to run a mullet without having to buy a link.

Trek Fuel is a lovely built generic bike... the EX9.8 i had was pretty light, carbon wheels, decent spec... couldn't really fault it. They've moved to completely generic shocks on most now after a few years of propriatery shock setups. They're nicely put together and have a sandwich compartment on the carbon ones. The only weird bit is the knock-block headset

Also WRT to rear shocks, I’ve come off a coil on my old Jeffsy, and now I’ve got it set up properly, the Float X feels every bit as good to me.

And finally, SWAT storage is the sort of feature that I didn’t think I needed, but now I’ve got used to, it’s something I wouldn’t be without. It makes packless riding much more practical.

After trying my son's, I'm now hankering after a Trek Slash.

The Stumpy Evo is a good shout, it does pretty much everything well & you can mess around a lot with the geometry. I imagine the Enduro is due a refresh before the Evo, as it’s older & in that all mountain bike category, I would say the Stumpy is still right at the sharp end of category defining bikes.

I have one hanging on the wall, which I do keep meaning to build back up, as it’s really rather good. Things to watch out for on them are they carbon ones didn’t like taking decent rock strikes to the downtube & the protector is a bit rubbish, there are other options to make things better. Also, they are low, like really low, even in the high setting, which mens they rip corners (I’d put it down as one of the best cornering bikes I’ve ever ridden) but you can get a few pedal strikes & you can get a bit of feedback through the pedals depending on your setup due to the anti squat.

I have a big travel bike as well (Claymore) which really shines on the fast, rough stuff & I am a real fan of the high pivot design (coming from a Dreadnought before) but as an all rounder, the Stumpy is a better bike, due to massive versatility.

Cotic, just pick the travel you fancy.

Nukeproof stuff on sale on CRC?

https://www.chainreactioncycles.com/p/nukeproof-reactor-290-factory-carbon-bike-xt

Some interesting thoughts and ideas here

Personally for me, money no object, I'd be looking to demo an Atherton.  I like DW link bikes, it reviews well, it's rare, it's UK made and it looks fantastic in the flesh.  Lack of downtube storage is a bummer, but not a dealbreaker.

In the usual recommend what you have - Nukeproof Mega 290 Carbon Elite really pleased with mine considering I never wanted a 29'er or carbon frame.....
Seems to do everything really well - climbs, descends and pedals great, and the Fox suspension is really impressive too.

Think I've ruled Nukeproof Mega out. I've never known so main frame failures.

I've contacted Atherton to see about a demo. I'm still not convinced I like the look of them, but it's certainly an option.

My friend has an Atherton. He loves it. Thankfully, seeing as they are not cheap! And his had a couple of minor teething issues, but they have all been sorted. And he got free Dyfi passes, so had a wonderful weekend there recently.

Outside of this, its bloody hard to buy a crap Enduro or trail bike these days, so you could just chose the one you think looks the coolest 😀

you could just chose the one you think looks the coolest

Almost certainly what I'll end up doing! It's good to get an idea of what's out there and get some real world opinions from people who've lived with them.

Think I’ve ruled Nukeproof Mega out. I’ve never known so main frame failures.

When i was looking for one i saw 4 "new front triangle" bikes on Pinkbike... i asked "why" and the answer was they're cracked/broken.... It steered me away.

Winning bike of the EWS and available with 40% off?
https://www.paulscycles.co.uk/bikes/mountain-bikes/rocky-mountain-altitude-c70-enduro-mountain-bike-2022-greypink__10961

Popped into a shop earlier with the intention of having a look at a Fuel. They only had the alloy in and it's a budget looking ugly mess of a thing, wasn't impressed at all. None in my size so didn't get to size it up.

Did however have a bounce on a Yeti SB150 which was surprisingly very well priced considering the build and the brand. Not something I've previously considered but it felt lovely and fitted perfect in the car park test.

Yeti SB150

I can't see in any world where that's a bad options... it'll be bloody brilliant.

I can’t see in any world where that’s a bad options… it’ll be bloody brilliant.

one where frames don’t break and warranties are sorted quickly and easily?

one where frames don’t break and warranties are sorted quickly and easily?

For example what should he buy then ?

See the second post. IMO. Not heard any horror stories, whereas I have on plenty of Yetis.

I can’t see in any world where that’s a bad options… it’ll be bloody brilliant.

Brilliant at falling apart, yes.

LOL i guess that's 2 in the No camp.... lets hope he's not bought it.

No purchases made. Stumpy Evo is currently top of the list but can't find an S5 carbon in stock anywhere.

They were selling them (SJ Evos) at a sale price, mate picked up an S4 a couple of months back and that took him a while to track down.

Pivot Firebird to add to the money no barrier list

Yep, spoke to a dealer earlier who thinks they're due an update with the new SRAM drivetrain which would explain stock being run down. His prediction is new colours but no changes to frame.

go demo a trek slash, 170/160 makes my orbea occam 150/140 trail bike worthless. climbs just as quick.
downhill its another level entirely..

Specialized Concept stores were showing S5 Carbon comps and experts in stock at a discount

https://www.specializedconceptstore.co.uk/shop/search/?s=stumpjumper+evo

If i was looking now it would be my choice over my 2020 Enduro but not ready for a swap yet.

If we could pick up a cheap carbon frame in S4 then would consider swapping out the S Works Stumpy frame we have

Yetis are wonderful bikes for riding in dry conditions in the desert. Not for the UK IMO.

Specialized Concept store showing S5 Comp and Expert in stock. I went for the Expert. I’d probably go for the Comp next time.

I wouldn’t buy a Yeti - I’ve heard multiple horror stories on the switch infinity link destroying itself and Yeti not being interested in replacing it under warranty. Also cracked swingarms.

I reckon the Sentinel and Stumpy Evo are 2 of the best options here. Add the SC Hightower - although I think it’s slightly less slack. Atherton is a more spendy option but reviewed well.

Specialized Concept stores were showing S5 Carbon comps and experts in stock at a discount

Excellent, thanks. Interestingly that doesn't come up on Specialized's own stock lists.

I went for the Expert. I’d probably go for the Comp next time.

Any reason? Expert looks a far tidier spec. Comp would leave me wanting several upgrades pretty quickly.

YT jeffsy.
Top spec ones are 160mm front and rear
Still pedal pretty well with the right tyres and suspension set up.

I went for the Carbon Comp on my Enduro and then swapped the components across from my older Enduro and sold that on with the new components.
If I was going to do it again with the Stumpy then I would go the same way.

I don’t think the Evo is being updated for 2023/4 - the standard one certainly isn’t. Change the region on Specialized’s website and you will probably find the new colours and spec changes. I had a look out of interest and the specs on the standard one I’ve got have moved from shimano to sram and a couple of new colours, but otherwise it’s unchanged - pretty certain the Evo is the same.

The reason I’d go for the Comp is because I swapped a lot of components onto it from my old bike, and for me I’m not sure I get the benefit of the performance elite fork and shock. XO is nice, but I also like GX.

Thanks for the feedback and even sourcing the bike for me!

Arrived a couple of days ago but haven't had chance to get out on it yet.

Swapped the stem and tyres, ready for shakedown tomorrow.

Is that a Stumpy Evo carbon? If so it’s a good bike - just make sure you have decent downtube protection under it as they can be a little bit fragile.

I spent today pinging lumps of rock and slate off the downtube of my sentinel alloy at Dyfi bike park 🫣

Yep. I've invisiframed it but may have a look for something more substantial.

I had a similar day on the DH bike at Caersws today. Love having the luxury of another bike just for uplift smashing.

Absolutely no use to this thread now you've bought a bike. And this one is aluminium, but liking the look of the new Meta V5

Good choice there Mark.
Mrsstu has the Carbon Rockguardz downtube protection on hers.
Fits well, looks good and seems to work.
I took the standard protection off fitted the Rockguardz then put the rubber protection back over the top.
You just need to use slightly longer bolts and it all sits nice and flush.

@singlespeedstu <ahref="https://rockguardz.com/product/rockguardz/specialized/stumpjumper-evo/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">This one? I looked at this but doesn't look like it covers much more than the standard cover.

First little shakedown ride this evening. Initial train was petrifying! Suspension set up like a pogo stick and brakes were pulling right back to the bar. Bit of tinkering and settled it down a bit.

Initial thoughts are that it pretty much does as you'd expect. Climbs well and feels efficient on the fire roads. In the trail it's lively and wants to pop off things. Through the rough stuff it is terrifying! I think I was probably going as quick as the Megatower but it's far less planted so feels miles faster. I was out after the rain and it felt unpredictable on the slippery stuff.

Still more tinkering to do to get the suspension feeling right but I think I'm onto a winner, it definitely ticks the boxes of being playful but still fast. Looking forward to testing it on some techy trails and think it'll be great on jumpy trails.

Not convinced by the Codes, I definitely prefer the Shimano 4 pots but they'll have to do for this summer. Don't like the lairy Fox stickers, so they'll be getting replaced by something more subtle. Grips have already been changed and bars will probably be swapped soon.

https://rockguardz.com/product/rockguardz/specialized/stumpjumper-evo/

This one. Covers enough to be useful.
A few mates round here have Stumpy Evos and they get used a lot but none of them have damaged a frame yet.

Which Codes are they - the OEM only RS that Specialized seem to put on? I’d actually quite like a pair of those - I like my Code R with 220/180mm rotors.

The 220mm rotor added quite a bit more bite than the 200mm one I had to start with.

Yep Code RS. Maybe I'll get used to the feel but I had my previous Saints exactly how I wanted them.

I would have swapped straight out but I wanted to try Dot fluid because dirty mineral oil was a constant annoyance with otherwise good Maguras on the other bike.

I would have swapped straight out

There have been a few different Spech's in our garage over the last few years.
None of them have ever made it past the front door of the bike shop with SRAM brakes still attached.

Everyone I know with sram brakes (mostly Codes but some guides) just find they work. No dramas, don’t need frequent bleeds etc.

Hope seem to be broadly the same - although I’m hating the messing bleed process at the caliper end on the Hope calipers I have (bleeding edge on codes is ace).

Everytime I see someone having brake issues it’s a Shimano brake. My mate was randomly having his slx 4 pots pull to the bar then after a few pumps going back to how they should be at the weekend in Wales. He’s had that on other Shimano brakes and I’ve seen others having the same thing. Plus I’ve had several Shimano calipers micro leak.