Up You Go
“Rolled up the hills almost on its own,” wrote one tester. While that’s obviously an exaggeration, everyone agreed that the hardtailed, big-wheeled Stumpy was one of the most efficient climbers this year. But even more impressive was how it handled on the way down. Whereas most hardtails can be relatively harsh, the Stumpy’s 29-inch wheels rolled over obstacles that would have bounced a 26er off its line, and the carbon frame muted small bumps better than aluminum ever could. And because it comes spec’d with a race-worthy Fox F29 fork and a solid SRAM-Shimano parts mix, it all adds up to a bike that’s simple, efficient,
and quick-handling. 24.6 lbs (19 inches);
Climbing: 4.4
Descending: 3.9