Best Entry Level: GT Peace 9r Multi
Retailing for $900 with mark downs to $550, the Peace 9r Multi is surprisingly tough and nimble. It lacks a suspension but great frame geometry and top-notch components help it compete with higher-priced rides. Mountain bikers say "steel is real," and GT's smooth and responsive Reynolds 520 frame is a winner. An Easton seatpost, stem and handlebar, Shimano Deore drive train, Tektro Aquila disc brakes and WTB wheels with Kenda Karma tires allow it to run with the big dogs.
Best Value: Diamondback Sortie 3
Diamondback has a solid reputation, and its Sortie 3 is turning heads in the mountain biking world. This bike seems to do everything right, and it does it for a list price of $2,375 that's occasionally reduced to $1,300. Its quality aluminum frame has trail-tested components such as Avid Juicy disc brakes, a Fox front and Knuckle Box rear suspension, Mavic wheels, Michelin tires and a Shimano Deore drive train. The Sortie 3's competence at cornering, climbing and descents and its ability to outpace competitors that cost twice as much, prompted "Outside" magazine to rate it a killer value for 2009.
Best All Mountain: Santa Cruz Blur LT
The Blur LT's ability to beat all comers while climbing, descending and pedaling made it "Outside" magazine's all-mountain winner for 2009. It also earned high praise from bikeradar.com, which rated it above the competition with a solid five stars. Among its many attributes is a Santa Cruz virtual pivot-point suspension that soaks up the bumps and minimizes bobbing during steep ascents. It gives riders the confidence to attempt jumps they wouldn't consider on lesser bikes. Expect to pay anywhere from $3,100 to $4,535, but you'll get what you pay for with this rugged and versatile performer.
Best Overall: Yeti Cycles ASR Carbon
If you can handle the ASR Carbon's $4,000 to $5,400 price tag, you'll be hard-pressed to do better at anywhere near the price. "Outside" magazine reviewers say it's the most versatile bike they've ever ridden, and they gave it their "Gear of the Year" award for 2009. It's a capable racer that's still comfortable enough for all-day riding. An integrated seat mast improves the rider's connection to the bike for better comfort, efficiency and handling. Yeti's carbon fiber frame and top-of-the-line components deliver impressive quickness and good rider feedback, making it fast yet stable. The ASR Carbon might not be cheap, but it's a competitive rider's dream bike.
