ALL-AROUND PERFORMER
After each ride, we had to check the price tag—could a bike this good cost this little? Not only did Mongoose equip this four-inch ride with a plush Fox RP2 rear shock and smooth RockShox Recon Race fork; they also threw in a complete Shimano XT group, a workhorse collection usually reserved for bikes twice the price. The ride is even more impressive. Steep angles make for deft handling, and the suspension eats up rugged terrain. It works so well, in fact, the bike all but disappears beneath you, leaving your attention where it should be—on the trail. 28.1 lbs, L; mongoose.com