{"id":63329,"date":"2024-05-10T13:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-05-10T11:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/7b3f676a-6765-4aa4-8d2d-6cfeee5b532e"},"modified":"2024-05-10T13:59:45","modified_gmt":"2024-05-10T11:59:45","slug":"whyte-yt-canyon-and-rockrider-are-our-2024-mountain-bike-of-the-year-winners","status":"publish","type":"rss_feed","link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/rss_feed\/whyte-yt-canyon-and-rockrider-are-our-2024-mountain-bike-of-the-year-winners\/","title":{"rendered":"Whyte, YT, Canyon and Rockrider are our 2024 Mountain Bike of the Year winners"},"content":{"rendered":"

Our annual bike mega-test is back with a bang for 2024 <\/p>

By George Scott\n <\/p>

Published: Friday, 10 May 2024 at 11:00 AM<\/p>

\n\n

Bike of the Year is back for 2024 and it\u2019s time to announce our winners!<\/p>

Whether you\u2019re after a trail bike, eMTB, enduro rig or hardtail, we\u2019ve tested 30 leading mountain bikes across four categories, so you can find the best one for you.\u00a0<\/p>

Bike of the Year is our annual mega-test, with 24 road, gravel and urban ebikes also tested in addition to 30 mountain bikes.<\/p>

We\u2019ve got the most experienced test team in the business and, after three months of putting these bikes through the wringer, we\u2019re ready to crown our champions.<\/p>

Introducing our 2024 winners\u2026<\/h2>
Trail Bike of the Year \u2013 Whyte T160 RS<\/a><\/li>
Enduro Bike of the Year \u2013 YT Capra Core 4 29<\/li>
Full-Power and Overall eMTB of the Year \u2013 Canyon Strive:ON CFR<\/li>
Lightweight eMTB of the Year \u2013 Whyte ELyte 150 Works<\/li>
Budget MTB of the Year \u2013 Rockrider AM 100<\/li><\/ul>
While we\u2019re focussing on mountain bikes here, our Bike of the Year test also covers road, gravel and urban electric bikes, with 24 contenders across five categories.<\/p>
We\u2019ve announced our 2024 Road Bike of the Year winners<\/a> \u2013 and we’ll be publishing full reviews of every bike tested over the next month or so. Head to our 2024 Bike of the Year hub<\/a> to find everything you need.<\/p>
Now, on to the 2024 MTB Bike of the Year test…<\/p>
<\/div><\/figure><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-we-tested\">What we tested<\/h2><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">We tested 30 mountain bikes across trail, enduro, electric and budget categories. – Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>We\u2019ve once again focussed our test on trail, enduro, electric and budget mountain bikes \u2013 but with a little twist.<\/p><p>We introduced an eMTB category to Bike of the Year in 2022 but this year\u2019s electrified test, headed up by Alex Evans, is split between full-power and lightweight ebikes to represent the ever-growing and diversifying segment.\u00a0<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1707\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/2024_MTB_BOTY_-2-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"Rob Weaver, Alex Evans and Tom Marvin during 2024 Bike of the Year\" class=\"wp-image-862521\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Left-right) Rob Weaver, Alex Evans and Tom Marvin took charge of the enduro, eMTB and trail categories respectively. – Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>Over the past year, we\u2019ve seen several high-profile lightweight eMTB launches, with these \u2018SL\u2019 ebikes designed to combine progressive motor assistance with a responsive ride feel.\u00a0<\/p><p>As a result, we felt it important to provide a clear distinction between lightweight eMTBs and their full-power cousins, with four bikes tested from each sub-category and two winners, though we have also selected an overall eMTB of the Year champion.<\/p><p>Otherwise, our long-standing trail and enduro categories are back, with eight bikes each for Tom Marvin (trail) and Rob Weaver (enduro) to once again deliver their respective verdicts.<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/Rockrider-AM-100-25.jpg\" alt=\"Female rider in blue top riding the Rockrider AM 100 hardtail mountain bike\" class=\"wp-image-861187\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Sarah Bedford headed up our Budget MTB of the Year category. – Ian Linton \/ Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>We\u2019ve kept a tight price range on each category but have also kept a close eye on value by once again including a budget category in this year\u2019s Bike of the Year test.<\/p><p>Having led last year\u2019s test, Sarah Bedford takes charge of this one, with six hardtails all under \u00a31,500.<\/p><p>That\u2019s the basics covered, now let\u2019s take a closer look at the top-performing bikes and contenders across each category.<\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-trail-bike-of-the-year-whyte-t160-rs\">Trail Bike of the Year \u2013 Whyte T160 RS<\/h2><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/Whyte-T-160-RS-pack-winner-badge.jpg\" alt=\"Whyte T 160 RS.\" class=\"wp-image-862424\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Whyte T160 RS is our Trail Bike of the Year for 2024. – Laurence Crossman-Emms \/ Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><ol><li>Whyte T160 RS<\/li><li>Canyon Spectral CF7<\/li><li>Marin Rift Zone 29 XR<\/li><\/ol><p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/best-trail-bikes\">trail bikes<\/a> for our 2024 test cost between \u00a33,000 and \u00a34,199 and are best described as \u2018burly\u2019, with fork travel topping out at 160mm and 130-150mm of bounce at the rear.\u00a0<\/p><p>These bikes are designed for all-day adventures, so they need to feel pacey and efficient on the climbs, maximising the effort you put in. But they also need to descend with control and comfort, and provide a fun, playful ride feel.<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1707\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/2024_MTB_BOTY_-11-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"The top three bikes from the 2024 Trail Bike of the Year category\" class=\"wp-image-862511\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Our top three trail bike contenders. – Kai Eves \/ Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-meet-the-tester-tom-marvin\">Meet the tester | Tom Marvin<\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1707\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/2024_MTB_BOTY_-5-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"Headshot of Bike of the Year 2024 tester Tom Marvin\" class=\"wp-image-862517\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tom set out to find the definitive trail bike for 2024. – Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>Tom Marvin is one of BikeRadar\u2019s senior technical editors and, as a rider who\u2019s as keen on Lycra-clad laps as he is rooty off-piste excursions, he\u2019s our chief tester for the trail bike category.<\/p><p>Tom\u2019s initial long list included twenty bikes, with eight models making it into the final test.\u00a0<\/p><p>The contenders were tested on a variety of terrain across the UK, in search of a machine that truly encapsulated the do-anything qualities of a modern trail bike.<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tom-marvin-s-verdict\">Tom Marvin\u2019s verdict<\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/04\/Whyte-T-160-RS-jump.jpg\" alt=\"Male rider in khaki coloured top riding the Whyte T-160 RS bike full suspension mountain bike\" class=\"wp-image-851175\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Whyte T-160 impressed Tom from the first pedal stroke. – Laurence Crossman-Emms \/ Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>\u201cThe Whyte T-160 impressed from the off, thanks to geometry that suits the modern trail rider.\u00a0<\/p><p>\u201cThe sophisticated suspension at both ends works together with the frame\u2019s linkage to deliver suspension that performs in nearly every scenario. The spec list was impressive when I requested the bike, and even more so a couple of months later when Whyte dropped the price.<\/p><p>\u201cAt this price, you\u2019re not going to find a better trail bike in 2024.\u201d<\/p><ul><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/reviews\/bikes\/mountain-bikes\/full-suspension-mountain-bikes\/whyte-t-160-rs-review\">Read Tom\u2019s full review of the Whyte T-160<\/a><\/li><\/ul><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-trail-bike-of-the-year-contenders\">Trail Bike of the Year contenders<\/h3><p>We\u2019ll be bringing you full reviews of all eight Trail Bike of the Year contenders over the next month. Here\u2019s the full shortlist.<\/p><ul><li>Cannondale Habit LT2<\/li><li>Canyon Spectral CF7<\/li><li>GT Sensor Carbon Pro<\/li><li>Marin Rift Zone 29 XR<\/li><li>Scott Genius 940<\/li><li>Trek Fuel EX 9.7 Gen 6<\/li><li>Whyte T160 RS<\/li><li>YT Jeffsy Core 3<\/li><\/ul><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-enduro-bike-of-the-year-yt-capra-core-4-29\">Enduro Bike of the Year \u2013 YT Capra Core 4 29<\/h2><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/YT-Capra-Core-4-29-Capra-Core-4-winner-badge.jpg\" alt=\"YT Capra Core 4 29 with overlay badge reading BikeRadar Bike of the Year '24 Enduro Winner.\" class=\"wp-image-862433\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The YT Capra Core 4 29 is our Enduro Bike of the Year for 2024. – Laurence Crossman-Emms \/ Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><ol><li>YT Capra Core 4 29<\/li><li>Marin Alpine Trail XR AXS<\/li><li>Trek Slash 8 Gen 6<\/li><\/ol><p>When it comes to the enduro category, pricing ranges from \u00a34,250 all the way up to \u00a36,205. It\u2019s a bigger price range than we\u2019d like and is largely down to one brand sending the wrong bike. With our deadline for bike arrivals looming, we decided to include it anyway.<\/p><p>As ever, the focus here is on the descents. Sure, an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/best-enduro-bikes\">enduro bike<\/a> needs to get you to the top of the hill, but downhill stability, composure, control and speed-carrying efficiency will always be the priority.<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1707\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/2024_MTB_BOTY_-14-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"The top three bikes from the 2024 Enduro Bike of the Year category\" class=\"wp-image-862508\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Left-right) The Trek Slash, YT Capra and Marin Alpine Trail XR duked it out for top spot. – Kai Eves \/ Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-meet-the-tester-rob-weaver\">Meet the tester | Rob Weaver<\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1707\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/2024_MTB_BOTY_-4-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"Headshot of Bike of the Year 2024 tester Rob Weaver\" class=\"wp-image-862518\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">BikeRadar’s technical editor-in-chief, Rob Weaver, has been testing bikes for more than 15 years. – Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>BikeRadar\u2019s technical editor-in-chief, Rob Weaver, returned once again to head up our enduro category. Hard-riding Rob has years of experience racing at a high level, and testing bikes for more than 15 years, so he knows what makes a good enduro rig.<\/p><p>Over three months, all the bikes in this category were ridden back-to-back to eke out every last difference between them. Rob also rode them in different orders throughout the test period to assess which did or didn\u2019t feel comfy when he was exhausted on the final run of the day.<\/p><p>The trails in question varied from steep, natural downhill tracks and forest singletrack, through to the high speeds and hefty impacts of BikePark Wales.<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-rob-weaver-s-verdict\">Rob Weaver\u2019s verdict<\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/04\/YT-Capra-Core-4-29-Action-2.jpg\" alt=\"Male rider in light grey top riding the YT Capra Core 4 29 full suspension mountain bike\" class=\"wp-image-850808\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Get stuck into the chunky stuff, and the YT Capra Core 4 just laps it up. – Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>\u201cWhen push came to shove, the YT Capra Core 4 had the edge over the other seven bikes in this test, quietly disposing of track after track with a calmness and pace that few could rival, no matter the type of terrain.\u00a0<\/p><p>\u201cEven if you\u2019re not riding the wildest trails going, the Capra provides enough support and agility to ensure the fun factor doesn\u2019t ever fizzle out.\u00a0<\/p><p>\u201cWhile this was a top-three Bike of the Year contender last year, the spec changes for 2024 have helped the Capra Core 4 clinch the top honours this time round.\u201d<\/p><ul><li>Our review of the YT Capra Core 4 will be published on Saturday 11 May<\/li><\/ul><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-enduro-bike-of-the-year-contenders\">Enduro Bike of the Year contenders<\/h3><p>We\u2019ll be bringing you full reviews of all eight Enduro Bike of the Year contenders over the next month. Here\u2019s the full shortlist.<\/p><ul><li>Cube Stereo ONE77 C:68 TM 29<\/li><li>Ibis HD6 XT<\/li><li>Kona Process X CR<\/li><li>Marin Alpine Trail XR AXS<\/li><li>Santa Cruz Megatower C R<\/li><li>Transition Spire Alloy NX<\/li><li>Trek Slash 8 Gen 6<\/li><li>YT Capra Core 4 29<\/li><\/ul><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-emtb-of-the-year-canyon-strive-on-cfr\">eMTB of the Year \u2013 Canyon Strive:On CFR<\/h2><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/Canyon-StriveON-CFR-electric-mountain-bike-12-winner-badge.jpg\" alt=\"Canyon StriveON CFR.\" class=\"wp-image-862425\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Canyon Strive:On CFR is our eMTB of the Year for 2024. – Laurence Crossman-Emms \/ Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>With \u2018SL\u2019 ebikes arriving thick and fast, this year we\u2019ve split our eMTB test into two sub-categories \u2013 full-power and lightweight, with four bikes in each sub-category.<\/p><p>We\u2019ve selected a winner for sub-category, as well as an overall eMTB of the Year in the case of the Canyon Strive:ON CFR.<\/p><p>Pricing for both eMTB categories starts at \u00a36,699 and peaks at \u00a310,000.<\/p><p>The full-power <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/best-electric-mountain-bikes\">electric mountain bikes<\/a> have at least 80Nm of maximum torque and boast larger batteries with a capacity of 600Wh or more. <\/p><p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/best-lightweight-electric-mountain-bikes\">lightweight electric mountain bikes<\/a> tip the scales at 20kg or less, offer 50-60Nm of max torque and up to 430Wh of battery capacity.\u00a0<\/p><p>We\u2019re now in a fantastic place when it comes to the development of eMTBs, with all eight bikes tested here offering decent geometry that really helps bolster their handling.<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-meet-the-tester-alex-evans\">Meet the tester | Alex Evans<\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1707\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/2024_MTB_BOTY_-6-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"Headshot of Bike of the Year 2024 tester Alex Evans\" class=\"wp-image-862516\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Alex Evans is our go-to eMTB tester. – Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>Senior technical editor, Alex Evans, has established himself as one of the world\u2019s leading testers of electric mountain bikes and is our go-to rider for all things eMTB.<\/p><p>Alex tested all eight eMTBs on his home trails in Scotland\u2019s Tweed Valley, home to some of the UK\u2019s best trail centres, enduro tracks and downhill race runs, and host to plenty of international competition.<\/p><p>The trails are world class and impressively varied helping him push the bikes to their limits. Back-to-back laps of the same well-known test loops helped shine a light on the highs and lows of each model.<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-full-power-emtb-of-the-year\">Full-Power eMTB of the Year<\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1707\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/2024_MTB_BOTY_-13-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"The top two bikes from the 2024 Full-Power Electric Mountain Bike of the Year category\" class=\"wp-image-862509\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Alex put the Canyon Strive:ON CFR and Propain Ekano 2 CF Ultimate head-to-head to find the full-power eMTB winner. – Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><ol><li>Canyon Strive:ON CFR (Overall eMTB of the Year)<\/li><li>Propain Ekano 2 CF Ultimate<\/li><\/ol><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-alex-evans-verdict\">Alex Evans\u2019 verdict<\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/04\/Canyon-StriveON-CFR-electric-mountain-bike-14.jpg\" alt=\"Male riding in light coloured top riding the Canyon Strive:ON CFR full suspension mountain eBike eMTB\" class=\"wp-image-851237\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Strive:ON is “an electric enduro race bike through-and-through”. – Laurence Crossman-Emms \/ Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>\u201cThe Canyon Strive:ON is confident, capable and fun to ride, both uphill and down, especially if you\u2019re tackling the hardest, fastest, gnarliest terrain around. It does exactly what it sets out to do; it\u2019s an electric enduro race bike through-and-through.\u00a0<\/p><p>\u201cThe motor, frame, suspension, and almost the entire spec list, are faultless and impeccable value for the \u00a36,500 asking price. It\u2019s not infallible though; a drivetrain and grips upgrade \u2013 when funds permit \u2013 would be at the top of my list.\u00a0<\/p><p>\u201cOffering a no-compromises package, the Strive:ON’s light weight is combined with a powerful motor and long-range battery; a mixture usually only way more expensive bikes boast.\u201d<\/p><ul><li>Our review of the Canyon Strive:ON CFR will be published on Sunday 12 May<\/li><\/ul><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-full-power-emtb-of-the-year-contenders\">Full-Power eMTB of the Year contenders<\/h3><p>We\u2019ll be bringing you full reviews of all four Full-Power eMTB of the Year contenders over the next month. Here\u2019s the full shortlist.<\/p><ul><li>Canyon Strive:ON CFR<\/li><li>Propain Ekano 2 CF Ultimate<\/li><li>Yeti 160E C1 Factory<\/li><li>YT Decoy MX Core 5<\/li><\/ul><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-lightweight-emtb-of-the-year\">Lightweight eMTB of the Year<\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1066\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/Whyte-E-Lyte-150-Works-lightweight-electric-mountain-bike-20-winner-badge.jpg\" alt=\"Whyte E Lyte 150 Works\" class=\"wp-image-862432\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Whyte ELyte 150 Works takes our new prize as our 2024 Lightweight eMTB of the Year. – Laurence Crossman-Emms \/ Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><ol><li>Whyte ELyte 150 Works<\/li><li>Santa Cruz Heckler SL GX AXS X<\/li><\/ol><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-alex-evans-verdict-0\">Alex Evans\u2019 verdict<\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/Whyte-E-Lyte-150-Works-lightweight-electric-mountain-bike-23.jpg\" alt=\"Male rider in multi-coloured top riding the Whyte ELyte 150 Works full suspension mountain eBike\" class=\"wp-image-860878\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Whyte ELyte 150 Works is a true class leader. – Laurence Crossman-Emms \/ Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>\u201cImpressive on the descents, the Whyte ELyte\u2019s handling is calm and composed, offering a mature feel that extends its capabilities beyond those short travel suspension figures.\u00a0<\/p><p>\u201cBest ridden quickly and hard, it\u2019s both dynamic and stable, feeling comfortable on a wide gamut of terrain types.\u00a0<\/p><p>\u201cCurrently, there are few lightweight ebikes out there that can top the ELyte.\u201d<\/p><ul><li>Our review of the Whyte Elyte 150 Works will be published on Thursday 16 May<\/li><\/ul><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-lightweight-emtb-of-the-year-contenders\">Lightweight eMTB of the Year contenders<\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1707\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/2024_MTB_BOTY_-12-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"The top two bikes from the 2024 Lightweight Electric Mountain Bike of the Year category\" class=\"wp-image-862510\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Alex whittled his shortlist down to the final two bikes: the Whyte ELyte 150 Words (left) and Santa Cruz Heckler SL GX AXS X (right). – Kai Eves \/ Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>We\u2019ll be bringing you full reviews of all four Lightweight eMTB of the Year contenders over the next month. Here\u2019s the full shortlist.<\/p><ul><li>Giant Trance X Advanced E+ Elite 1<\/li><li>Santa Cruz Heckler SL GX AXS X<\/li><li>Specialized Turbo Kenevo SL 2 Expert<\/li><li>Whyte ELyte 150 Works<\/li><\/ul><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-budget-mtb-of-the-year-rockrider-am-100\">Budget MTB of the Year \u2013 Rockrider AM 100<\/h2><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/Rockrider-AM-100-01-winner-badge.jpg\" alt=\"Rockrider AM 100 01\" class=\"wp-image-862429\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Rockrider AM 100 is our Budget MTB of the Year for 2024. – Ian Linton \/ Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><ol><li>Rockrider AM 100<\/li><li>Whyte 529<\/li><li>Giant Fathom 29 2<\/li><\/ol><p>This year, our budget category spans the \u00a31,000-\u00a31,500 price bracket. That\u2019s a marked increase compared to our 2023 test, which brings with it a jump in component specification, geometry and the overall capability of each of the hardtails included.\u00a0<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1281\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/Budget-MTB-riding.jpg\" alt=\"Two women riding mountain bikes for the 2024 Budget MTB of the Yeasr test\" class=\"wp-image-862534\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">There’s still plenty of value to be found out there. – Ian Linton \/ Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>For this kind of outlay, you can expect a dropper post, a more tunable fork, a slicker drivetrain and better tyres, all of which add up to an even better experience in the woods.<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-meet-the-tester-sarah-bedford\">Meet the tester | Sarah Bedford<\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1281\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/Sarah-Bedford.jpg\" alt=\"Headshot of Sarah Bedford\" class=\"wp-image-862536\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Sarah took to the trails of the Glentress Forest. – Ian Linton \/ Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>Having led our inaugural budget test in 2023, Sarah Bedford, based in Scotland\u2019s Tweed Valley, is back for the 2024 test.<\/p><p>Our selection of six <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/best-hardtail-mountain-bikes\">hardtail mountain bikes<\/a> caters to first-time mountain bike buyers, with Sarah paying particular attention to how each bike provided confidence for challenging terrain and skill expansion. Value for money is key, too, as well as the potential for future upgrades \u2013 and not forgetting the all-important fun factor.<\/p><p>To test these budget bikes, Sarah took to the trails in the Glentress Forest, finding the limits of each bike with a mix of trail centre, off-piste and bike park riding.<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-sarah-bedford-s-verdict\">Sarah Bedford\u2019s verdict<\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/Rockrider-AM-100-22.jpg\" alt=\"Female rider in black top riding the Rockrider AM 100 hardtail mountain bike\" class=\"wp-image-861184\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Rockrider AM 100 offers plenty of bang for your buck. – Ian Linton \/ Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>\u201cThe Rockrider AM 100 is a standout hardtail that offers impressive performance and style at an affordable price.\u00a0<\/p><p>\u201cIt excelled on the climbs, despite the small wheels, while its nimble handling and trail performance impressed.\u00a0<\/p><p>\u201cIn the entry-level category, the components may not be as high-end, but the AM 100’s serve their purpose effectively. The lightweight frame provides a solid foundation for future upgrades to enhance performance and further reduce its already low weight.\u00a0<\/p><p>\u201cOverall, the AM 100 is a smart purchase for those looking for a capable, nimble and playful hardtail without breaking the bank.\u201d<\/p><ul><li>Our review of the Rockrider AM 100 will be published on Monday 13 May<\/li><\/ul><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-budget-mtb-of-the-year-contenders\">Budget MTB of the Year contenders<\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1619\" height=\"1079\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/39\/2024\/05\/Budget-MTB.jpg\" alt=\"The three leading bikes from the 2024 Budget MTB of the Year test\" class=\"wp-image-862535\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Left-right) Sarah’s top contenders: the Giant Fathom 29 2, Rockrider AM 100 and Whyte 529. – Ian Linton \/ Our Media<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>We\u2019ll be bringing you full reviews of all six Budget MTB of the Year contenders over the next month. Here\u2019s the full shortlist.<\/p><ul><li>Calibre Line T3 27.5<\/li><li>Cannondale Habit HT 1<\/li><li>Giant Fathom 29 2<\/li><li>Merida Big Trail 400<\/li><li>Rockrider AM 100<\/li><li>Whyte 529<\/li><\/ul><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-thank-you\">Thank you!<\/h2><p>This test is a huge effort from the BikeRadar and <em>MBUK<\/em> teams first and foremost, but a big thanks also have to go to the brands that supplied bikes, BikePark Wales for use of their trails for testing, and Forestry England for hosting our main photoshoot at the fantastic Forest of Dean Cycle Centre.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-group highlight-box is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\"><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why you can trust BikeRadar<\/h2><p>BikeRadar has been an authority on bikes and cycling tech since its inception in 2007, delivering the world\u2019s best riding advice.<\/p><p>We have experts testing all types of bikes, parts, clothing and accessories, from road, mountain and gravel bikes to commuting, bikepacking and electric bikes.\u00a0<\/p><p>Our reviews are always <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/news\/how-does-bikeradar-make-money\">editorially independent<\/a> \u2013 with no exceptions. Our reviewers comprehensively test all products in the real world, always reflecting on performance, value and the wider market when delivering their verdicts and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/news\/our-review-ratings-explained\">review ratings<\/a>.<\/p><p>We have more than 15,000 product reviews available at your fingertips, as well as expert buying, maintenance, training, skills, health and fitness advice.\u00a0<\/p><p>Our annual Bike of the Year test is an industry benchmark and the BikeRadar team consists of some of the most experienced riders and testers in the business.<\/p><\/div><\/div> <\/body><\/html>\n<hr class=\"no-tts wp-block-separator\"\/>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Our annual bike mega-test is back with a bang for 2024 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":24,"featured_media":63330,"template":"","categories":[1],"acf":{"readingTimeMinutes":"14"},"uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2024\/05\/whyte-yt-canyon-and-rockrider-are-our-2024-mountain-bike-of-the-year-winners.jpg",1600,1067,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2024\/05\/whyte-yt-canyon-and-rockrider-are-our-2024-mountain-bike-of-the-year-winners-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2024\/05\/whyte-yt-canyon-and-rockrider-are-our-2024-mountain-bike-of-the-year-winners-300x200.jpg",300,200,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2024\/05\/whyte-yt-canyon-and-rockrider-are-our-2024-mountain-bike-of-the-year-winners-768x512.jpg",768,512,true],"large":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2024\/05\/whyte-yt-canyon-and-rockrider-are-our-2024-mountain-bike-of-the-year-winners-1024x683.jpg",800,534,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2024\/05\/whyte-yt-canyon-and-rockrider-are-our-2024-mountain-bike-of-the-year-winners-1536x1024.jpg",1536,1024,true],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2024\/05\/whyte-yt-canyon-and-rockrider-are-our-2024-mountain-bike-of-the-year-winners.jpg",1600,1067,false]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"importmanagerhub@sprylab.com","author_link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/author\/importmanagerhubsprylab-com\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"Our annual bike mega-test is back with a bang for 2024","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/rss_feed\/63329"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/rss_feed"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/rss_feed"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/24"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/63330"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=63329"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=63329"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}