Pinkbike Annual Community Survey Results: What Bikes Do Pinkbike Readers Ride?

Nov 25, 2021
by James Smurthwaite  
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Now that we've all got to know each other a bit better, it's time to find out what bikes we ride. In this third article of the Pinkbike Audience Survey results, we're taking a look through all the questions related specifically to the bikes we ride. That includes everything from your favourite brands, to your preferred wheelsize to how vain you are about your bike's aesthetics. This piece focusses mainly on frames but we'll do a deeper dive into components in the next article where things are going to get really granular.

So, are you sold on mullets? Do you all think carbon is evil? And are you planning on buying a bike with a motor next? Let's find out.


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What type of bike is your primary bike?

Fat bike: 0.48%
Cross country: 10.32%
Dirt jump / street / 4X: 1.03%
Downcountry: 4.45%
eMTB: 3.41%
Enduro / all mountain: 50.22%
Freeride / park: 1.43%
Trail: 26.22%
Downhill: 2.45%

In our introduction article, it looked like trail and enduro were evenly matched as the type of riding our audience does, but it looks like many of you prefer to do that riding on enduro bikes. Enduro bikes are often sold as do-it-all machines with the pedalling ability to tackle all-day rides and the attitude for bike parks and downhill tracks if you like, it's not much of a surprise they are a popular choice for our respondents. The second most popular bike category is trail followed by cross country in third.




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What brand is your current primary mountain bike? (Top 50 brands)

Specialized: 10.44%
Santa Cruz: 9.37%
Trek: 6.78%
Other: 4.69%
Transition: 4.63%
Giant: 4.46%
Ibis: 3.97%
Yeti: 3.95%
Norco: 3.87%
Rocky Mountain: 3.56%
Commencal: 3.47%
YT Industries: 3.39%
Kona: 2.96%
Canyon: 2.53%
Pivot: 2.34%
Scott: 2.12%
Evil: 1.89%
Devinci: 1.44%
Orbea: 1.29%
Intense: 1.28%
Cannondale: 1.27%
Nukeproof: 1.09%
Banshee: 1.05%
Marin: 0.95%
Knolly: 0.87%
Salsa: 0.72%
Cube: 0.68%
Guerilla Gravity: 0.68%
Fobidden: 0.65%
Niner: 0.65%
Propain: 0.62%
GT: 0.56%
Polygon: 0.56%
Chromag: 0.53%
Mondraker: 0.52%
Vitus: 0.52%
Orange: 0.50%
Revel: 0.49%
Cotic: 0.47%
Whyte Bikes: 0.47%
Merida: 0.38%
Canfield: 0.36%
NS: 0.36%
Diamondback: 0.35%
Nicolai: 0.32%
Fezzari: 0.31%
Pole: 0.28%
Ragley: 0.26%
Lapierre: 0.25%
Ghost: 0.47%

In total, 449 brands were represented from the biggest marques in the world down to "it's a generic frame that I repainted and I forgot the brand name." The most common answer from respondents was Specialized with more than 2,000 bikes followed by Santa Cruz then Trek.

To be in the top 50, a brand had to have at least 47 responses. Of the brands included in 'Other', two could have made it into the Top 50 in their own right - Bird with 61 customers and Privateer with 49.

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Which brand of complete mountain bike will you likely purchase next? (Top 50 brands)

Other: 9.41%
Santa Cruz: 8.91%
Specialized: 8.34%
Transition: 6.55%
Commencal: 5.45%
Norco: 4.88%
Trek: 4.45%
Ibis: 3.94%
Canyon: 3.63%
Yeti: 3.28%
Pivot: 3.13%
YT Industries: 2.90%
Rocky Mountain: 2.89%
Evil: 2.27%
Scott: 1.85%
Propain: 1.84%
Nukeproof: 1.83%
Giant: 1.80%
Kona: 1.76%
Forbidden: 1.67%
Guerilla Gravity: 1.59%
Orbea: 1.27%
Devinci: 1.21%
Cannondale: 1.11%
Revel: 1.07%
Banshee: 0.84%
Marin: 0.72%
Intense: 0.62%
Knolly: 0.54%
Salsa: 0.50%
Cotic: 0.46%
Fezzari: 0.46%
Polygon: 0.44%
Raaw: 0.44%
Chromag: 0.40%
GT: 0.40%
Mondraker: 0.38%
Vitus: 0.37%
Cube: 0.36%
Orange: 0.35%
Canfield: 0.34%
Nicolai: 0.33%
Zerode: 0.33%
Niner: 0.30%
Juliana: 0.25%
Pole: 0.24%
Spot: 0.21%
Surly: 0.18%
Whyte Bikes: 0.18%
Merida: 0.17%

When we asked what brand riders would purchase next, there was some change around. The top answer was "Other" (although the most common answer among the text responses was a variation of 'undecided'), then the two Californian 'S' brands swapped places with Santa Cruz topping the list closely followed by Specialized. This time 32 responses was enough to get a brand in the Top 50 and of brands named in the other section, only Privateer would have made it in its own right.



What is the wheelsize of your current mountain bike?

26": 5.42%
26" Plus: 0.27%
27.5": 29.67%
27.5" Plus: 3.87%
Mullet (29" front, 27.5" rear): 3.79%
29": 55.31%
29" Plus: 0.96%
Fat Bike: 0.37%%
Other: 0.34%

Wheel size has been one of the big debates in recent years and among our respondents it looks like 29ers have won the battle for now. More than half of you are currently running a full 29er set up with nearly a third on the full 27.5" combination and 26" still in this place at 5.42%. So far mullets haven't had much traction among the bikes of Pinkers but if we look at the next set of results we see that that might change soon.

What is the wheel size of the mountain bike you will likely purchase next?

26": 1.04%
26" Plus: 0.16%
27.5": 14.75%
27.5" Plus: 2.78%
Mullet (29" front, 27.5" rear): 15.80%
29": 62.82%
29" Plus: 1.21%
Fat Bike: 0.43%%
Other: 1.02%

Looking into the future, it won't be long before well be reading plenty of "27.5" ain't dead" comments as it seems to be a wheelsize on the wane. Its numbers halved when we asked what wheelsize they would consider buying nextbut the mullet configuration nearly quintupled, so maybe we can't ring the death knell just yet. The full 29er category grows even bigger to nearly 2/3rds of responses.



How much rear suspension does your current primary bike have?

It's a hardtail: 12.83%
Less than 100 mm: 1.16%
100mm - 119mm: 6.29%
120mm - 129mm: 8.57%
130mm - 139mm: 11.27%
140mm - 149mm: 15.19%
150mm - 160mm: 29.96%
161mm - 180mm: 12.04%%
180mm +: 2.68%

It's not entirely surprising that when so many of you ride enduro bikes that more than 50% of the bikes here fall into the 140-180mm travel range. 150-160mm currently seems to be the sweet spot with nearly a third of respondents opting for that do-it-all range. 1 in 8 of you are keeping it real on hardtails but very few of you are running a big, 180mm+ bike as your primary ride.

How much rear suspension do you plan on your next bike having?

It's a hardtail: 6.29%
Less than 100 mm: 0.88%
100mm - 119mm: 5.39%
120mm - 129mm: 9.54%
130mm - 139mm: 11.27%
140mm - 149mm: 16.83%
150mm - 160mm: 30.51%
161mm - 180mm: 16.02%%
180mm +:3.35%

Looking ahead, it seems that these numbers won't change too much as we go forwards. The biggest change comes from hardtails where the numbers are half. We suspect this is because hardtails are common starter bikes and their sales will remain healthy thanks to incoming riders who aren't even aware this survey exists.



When buying a new bike how important are a bike's aesthetics?

Not at all important, I'll buy the ugliest bike in the world if it rides great and the price is right: 8.5%
Somewhat important, I don't seek out aesthetics but I won't buy a bike I hate the look of: 59.65%
Very important, there are plenty of good bikes out there and I won't ride an ugly bike: 31.85%

Given the trashing some out-of-the-ordinary bikes have had in recent years, we weren't all too surprised to see that more than 90% of respondents were happy to admit that the aesthetics of a bike are important to them when making a purchasing decision. For most people, they aren't a deal-breaker but it's definitely something that could influence their decision.



In general, how loud do you want your bike to look?

Mild (plain colours, minimal graphics): 47.67%
Styled (strong colours, tasteful graphics): 43.75%
Wild (bright colours, lots of contrast, aggressive graphics): 6.35%
Other: 2.23%

But what does a good-looking bike look mean? Well, definitely not loud! 5 years ago, bright, flouro colours were all the rage but that period appears to have passed with 'Mild' and 'Styled' on roughly equal footing in our Survey



What would you change about your current bike??
All my stuff is beat, so it needs new wheels, drivetrain, brakes, etc.: 8.01%
Honestly, it just needs a new paint job: 7.43%
I want 27.5" wheels: 1.54%
I want 29" wheels: 4.69%
I'd kill for a shorter seat tube and longer dropper post: 3.94%
I'd love some on-frame storage and better cable routing: 7.25%
I'd make it a lot lighter: 16.88%
I'd modernize the geo, of course. Slacker, longer, and with a steeper seat angle: 7.19%
I'd want less (and better) suspension travel: 1.60%
I'd want more (and better) suspension travel: 9.51%
If it had the latest hub standard, I'd keep it forever: 2.35%
It just needs a motor: 2.10%
My bike can't carry a water bottle, so that's what I'd add: 3.55%
Other: 23.95%

With tyre inserts, bigger wheels and ambitious intentions, we've seen the weight of enduro bikes creeping up over the past few years however that might have left some of you feeling like it might be time to shed the pounds. 17% of you, the biggest cohort, wanted to change that about your current bike with the next largest group wanting more travel at nearly 10%. Respondents were much less interested in getting the latest hub standard (2.35%), adding a motor (2.1%) or swapping for 27.5" wheels (1.54%).



What frame material would you like your next mountain bike to be?

Aluminium: 25.88%
Carbon: 49.22%
Steel: 3.40%
Titanium: 2.41%
Other: 0.52%
Frame material doesn't matter to me: 18.56%


We see a lot of comments proclaiming the death of carbon on our stories but that doesn't seem to be borne out in these results. Nearly 50% of respondents told us they were planning on purchasing a carbon fibre bike next with only a quarter planting their flag for aluminium. 3.4% of you are steel stalwarts while exotic titanium can only convince 2.4% of you.




How would you classify your attitudes around e-mountain bikes?

They are amazing: 12.73%
Curious, but not ready buy one: 11.78%
I want one, but they are too expensive: 13.05%
Not for me, but understand the appeal: 28.62%
I'll buy one when I am older and can't keep up: 23.83%
They are horrible, I will never spend a dime on one: 7.23%
Other: 2.75%

OK, time for the powder keg question, what do you all make of eMTBs? Well, around 50% of you expressed positive sentiments towards them with around 30% reacting negatively. We've definitely noticed our comments section mellow towards motors in recent years (although maybe this is mainly thanks to our filters) and it seems that is reflected in our Survey. It will be interesting to watch this question develop as we continue to conduct this survey in future years.



So, the ultimate Pinkbike bike would be a carbon-framed Specialized enduro bike with 29" wheels and 150-160mm travel. It would have to be stealthily styled and we would want to cut down the weight on it. Come back tomorrow to find out how Pinkbike readers would spec it, maybe we should build it up in real life for a test in the future.

Author Info:
jamessmurthwaite avatar

Member since Nov 14, 2018
1,770 articles

266 Comments
  • 114 0
 Really disappointed that my 'Magna RockPounder 6.7 Shimano 24 speed with shocks' wasn't represented on any of these bike lists.
  • 6 0
 #orher for the win
  • 5 1
 #other
  • 26 0
 #otheraintdead
  • 5 0
 I don’t know why but the “with shocks” part made me laugh so hard, I think it’s because I’ve owned bikes with similar names in the past.
  • 7 43
flag scott-townes (Nov 25, 2021 at 18:51) (Below Threshold)
 Funny how people don't realize they do these surveys to sell the data. Yup, you're all pawns. Enjoy!
  • 8 0
 @scott-townes: Isn’t that just common sense? Most websites you will go on sell data.
  • 16 0
 It does seem ridiculous that we would freely give them info that they could then sell to bike companies for a profit. But at the end of the day, if the products that bike companies are actually selling are in line with what people actually want/need, that’s a healthy relationship! You can sell all my bike data however you want, I got nothing to hide. I just hope their actually listening.
  • 7 6
 @BikesNRussets: Most don't have common sense. Most resort to arguing over the free info. they provide to PB while arguing over how PB sold out to Outside Mag when in reality PB has been selling user data for years. Most don't know the difference between their, they're, there.....
  • 9 1
 @scott-townes: If you don't pay for it, you aren't the customer, you are the product being sold.
  • 17 1
 @scott-townes: monetizing the survey results they just published for free? IDK seems like a tough sell.
  • 1 1
 @bmar: If that were the cast you would be able to buy a bike with a sealed drive?
  • 6 0
 Happy to be different with my two 2006/2007 26" Aluminium 135xQR / 20x110 nonboost all the way!
  • 1 0
 @bmar: Provided that this dependency direction is as you stated. But if it is the other way round? The companies make products and advertise them in a way that makes us think we need them...
  • 6 0
 @scott-townes: so if you're asked what kind of bike you'd like to buy, you'd rather shut up and let the bike industry guess what you want? Ending up with a 24" huck-to-flat bike for your all-day rides? Big Grin

Big data come at a cost, a democratic penalty, and a peek into your privacy. They are at best also consumer empowering and giving the industry better input for what to do next. The US needs a GDPR legislation to harness this, but I'll not go further down that road.

I am not too worried about this particular datset ... Maybe you can find out if a rider is of a particular political belief if he or she is riding a titanium frame or that the rider needs a higher insurance premium if he or she rides a Transition with wild colors, but that particular population is marginal. The gains from these insights are not worth acting upon.
  • 1 0
 @pioterski: That’s a good point. I think there is a balance there. A lot of people are happy being overbiked because that’s what they think they need (as evidenced in the other comments threads), but aren’t they still very happy with their purchases? I’m not sure that’s a completely bad thing. I think in this case they know that their bike is more capable than they are and are ok with that. But at the same time, I’m not saying that we should blindly follow and buy what they’re selling, that’s why I read reviews and see what the critics are saying. It’s not a prefect system. But bike companies (and most companies) should know by now that the long game is producing products that people like and are happy with not trying to trick its consumers. Trying to trick consumers is a short sighted business model that won’t last long. Surveys could help bridge the gap.
  • 3 0
 @scott-townes: "BO", (before outside), I considered filling out Pinkbike surveys along with buying their merch now and then and clicking ads as well as buying from those links when appropriate as sort of my duty for all the great content they provided... Also, it's VERY cool that they actually show the data from these surveys as a lot of websites never do that. (AND, does anyone really think their online habits and any information they provide isn't being monetized in some way these days...???)

It will be interesting to see how things go after the paywall. I subscribed to Bike in print and then digital and bought it most times in person before that at the bookstore for the pictures alone. But BETA just never pulled me back. It actually kind of pisses me off the way they put the first part of a bike test available to read; and then the rest of the article is cut off/behind the paywall. (you should switch to like most online magazines and allow so many free articles a month and the opportunity to further advertise on that page instead)

The thing about bike tests is that they are mostly just opinion, and opinion's vary. So it's not like you can even rely on one source for information anyway. The coolest thing about PB was that you could almost always get real time interaction with the person testing in the comments. That has been amazing!

If they start dropping the 2022 field tests next week behind the paywall I'm not sure if that would be genius, or just a death sentence to the websites base?
  • 1 0
 hahaha. There, theyre, their @scott-townes. I was looking for this comment!
  • 2 0
 @BikesNRussets: my 1st full sus was a Rock Machine Adrenaline 6000
  • 1 0
 @iiman: My first mtb I used when i started riding mtb is the “Genesis V2100 Mountain Bike.” Anytime I went off a drop the rear suspension was so bad that after compression it would rack me in the balls. It hurt!
  • 1 0
 @BikesNRussets: Maybe you never used rebound knob?
  • 2 0
 @aljoburr: It was a Walmart bike, it only had preload.
  • 1 0
 @scott-townes:
Be careful with the phone thar youre using
  • 1 0
 @bmar: It's how they pay the content makers for what we read and watch...
  • 2 0
 @Joakinho: Oh you mean my flip phone because I've never bought into the smartphone scam? Tell me more.
  • 66 6
 If you want a fun over/under data dive compare the % of "your current primary" to the % of "likely purchase next" to see what brands are gaining appeal versus losing:

Transition - current 4.64%, next 6.55% - 41% increase in appeal

Yeti - current 3.95%, next 3.28% - 17% drop in appeal

etc.

I'll leave it to the overpaid Outside+ writers to run the whole table. It must be worth an article to itself.
  • 88 2
 hey — don’t hold such hostility towards the writers. i’d be willing to bet that they’re closer to underpaid than overpaid. at the end of the day, they’re just workers too.

the Outside+ owners and executives on the other hand….
  • 3 0
 Great idea for an article!
  • 7 1
 If you don't want the Outside+ writers to be overpaid, stop giving them your cool ideas for free and let them find article subjects by themselves haha!
  • 1 0
 Along the same lines, I found it interesting that more people plan to buy a 29+ bike than currently own one. Which is opposite of the 27.5+ numbers.
  • 8 0
 Also surprised to see Transition so high up on the currently own lists! I have had several of them and I know firsthand how awesome they are, but I didn't think of them as truly big players. Only a few % behind Trek!?
  • 5 1
 Anyone that wants a non-e Yeti likely already has one since the SB series has been around for 3-4 years now. Whereas Transition has come out with the Spire, Spur and updated Patrol in the last year. All at solid price points too.
  • 2 0
 @freeinpg: I bet they are really over represented in the PNW, which is where pinkbike HQ is. Which means they talk alot about transition so most people here have heard of them.
  • 2 0
 @yahmon: I mean it more that they are paid more than me to come up with and write articles so that is why I'm not calculating the whole table and then wrapping a thousand words around it speculating on why which brands are up and down.

We've seen most of the cars pinkbike staff drive...
  • 6 1
 @freeinpg: Again… the data is skewed… it’s data from PB’ers. Of course we know and own Transition. I’m actually surprised Trek is high on a PB readers consideration. It’s more of a big box bike… more in line with a casual rider (once a month… fair weather type).
  • 90 1
 Ok, after a couple of cut and pastes and a column data sort in excel here is the full table from greatest increase in appeal as next bike to greatest loss of appeal. Only the 45 brands that had both a current bike and next bike value were used. Now maybe some of you might like to speculate on the why with a few choice words...

Brand Change in Appeal

Propain: 197%
Fobidden: 157%
Guerilla Gravity:134%
Revel: 118%
Other: 101%
Nukeproof: 68%
Commencal: 57%
Fezzari: 48%
Canyon: 43%
Transition: 41%
Pivot: 34%
Norco: 26%
Evil: 20%
Nicolai: 3%
Ibis: -1%
Orbea: -2%
Cotic: -2%
Santa Cruz: -5%
Canfield: -6%
Cannondale: -13%
Scott: -13%
Pole: -14%
YT Industries: -14%
Devinci: -16%
Yeti: -17%
Rocky Mountain: -19%
Banshee: -20%
Specialized: -20%
Polygon: -21%
Marin: -24%
Chromag: -25%
Mondraker: -27%
GT: -29%
Vitus: -29%
Orange: -30%
Salsa: -31%
Trek: -34%
Knolly: -38%
Kona: -41%
Cube: -47%
Intense: -52%
Niner: -54%
Merida: -55%
Giant: -60%
Whyte Bikes: -62%
  • 17 0
 @ebrown123: wow man very nice, my revel will do nicely on buy/sell seems like
  • 6 0
 @ebrown123: Giant dropping off more than Merida... You hate to see it.

The Trance and Reign look like great bikes! I guess they're just losing the plot. Entry level trail bike with quick release skewer (among other issues) and the downhill bike is like a hidden option on the secret menu at in n out. Do you have to order them through a bike store? Is there gonna be a 2023 model?

I love the 100% increase in "other". Considering the numbers, I'd love to hear what these brands are.
  • 7 15
flag OnTheRivet (Nov 25, 2021 at 16:04) (Below Threshold)
 @lepigpen: Giant is another example of a Japanese company with an old school asian corporate hierarchy model that refuses to change and will die because of it. Shimano is close to losing the plot but their North American and European offices keep them relevant. Fwiw, I own a pretty rad Giant gravel bike but they need to do something on the mtb and road side quick.
  • 2 0
 @ebrown123: Very nice work, thank U. From one data cruncher to another...
  • 17 1
 @OnTheRivet: They are Taiwanese. They are also the biggest bicycle manufacturer in the world. So many of these other companies' bikes are built by Giant. Their corporate model is much different than the others, in that such a massive amount of their revenue comes from manufacturing others bikes and bike parts.
  • 26 0
 @ebrown123: I wonder how much of that growth for Propain and GG can be accredited to Remy and Yohan?
  • 10 0
 @MegalodonMatt: I’m guessing a pretty good chunk, doesn’t seem like DVO or Propain is holding Remy back that’s for sure
  • 15 1
 @Baller7756: Yeah I'm not sure who this data really serves. The percentage list below shows Vitus and Polygon having "significant drop off sin popularity" when that's not at all reflected in the community. Insanely popular and seeing them pop up everywhere. But when you are polling enthusiasts... Yeah you end up With 4 companies that are realistically rare to see and all the bikes you do see are actually at the bottom lol.

So it's a popularity contest where people drool over bikes they can't afford. Basically PB's bread n butter Smile
  • 14 0
 Transition deserves all of their success. Best customer service I've ever experienced and their newest bikes ride great and come in alloy.
  • 1 0
 @OnTheRivet: Do some research...
  • 2 0
 @lepigpen: depends where you live. In the PNW, you’ll see bikes you can’t afford more often then a Vitus.
  • 4 0
 @Muchogusto: transition have crushed it throughout the pandemic. Great redesigns and they’ve actually landed product. Have to think Propain, Forbidden and Revel are similarly stoked. I know Forbidden is landing product now - who else?
  • 2 0
 Propain is definitive winner!
1.84% vs 0.62%
Increase of 300% !!!
  • 6 0
 @ebrown123: seems like sponsoring popular YouTubers is a valid marketing strategy...
  • 3 0
 @Maestral: It is about 3x as much, so an increase of about +200%.
  • 4 0
 @ebrown123: 'Other' seems to be doing fairly well in 5th place.
  • 1 0
 @ebrown123: Really interesting data although i'd bet alot of peoples next bike will change away from the smaller appealing brands and back to the reliable big brands when they have to stump up the cash.
  • 2 1
 @ebrown123: Great stuff. I reckon @brianpark needs to assign one of the (not overpaid) PB writers to work this into an article - with credit to you obvs.
Big questions: How are Trek and Vitus losing appeal when they currently have their most-competitive bikes for years?
Have YT become more about marketing than good-value & well-designed bikes?
Is Pivot's increased popularity a direct result of the Grim Donut 2 collab? (because otherwise I don't get it)
  • 3 0
 @ebrown123: Trek's appeal is way down but everyone will still end up buying one. Solid bikes from big brands will never really lose appeal because of their mass availability and reasonable price points. I'd love a Propain or a Forbidden too but waiting up to a year to pay twice the price is tough to justify.
  • 1 1
 @SleepingAwake: Don't know about that one, but making very good and critically acclaimed bikes for a moderate price sure is.
  • 1 0
 @Baller7756: tell that to Brandon semenuk and Brett rheeder. Doing a great job marketing with top tier athletes.
  • 4 0
 @ebrown123: looks like GG and Propain are getting their moneys worth from Yoann and Remy
  • 3 0
 @kody2fast: Not trying to knock Yoann, he's great, but I think GG's success might have more to do with domestic manufacturing and having bikes to sell when no one else has.
  • 2 0
 @bertimusmaximus: I'd kill to be in the PNW. And I'd kill to own one of these ~5k bikes as well.

Alas, I can't afford either lol
  • 3 0
 Completely surprised that Santa Cruz was that highly ranked. They're not garbage bikes, but I have yet to meet someone that has ridden them (Bronson, 5010) and compared their ride to other bikes in the same category from Specialized, Norco, Rocky, and Transition, and ended up going with a SC.
  • 1 0
 @rrolly: I don’t think most people can tell the difference. The tell for me with Santa Cruz was their ever evolving leverage curve. It’s great to evolve and improve a bike but it was like they never had a design philosophy and even then it took them 10 years to figure out what others knew in 2010.
  • 1 0
 @Vlad-Putin: I’m stoked to see propain bikes in the wild too. Nice suspension design and builds for most budgets and riding styles. Its nice to see high end bikes offered in alloy as well.
  • 3 0
 @rrolly: Specialized is on verge of big box bike status… like Trek or Giant. Santa Cruz is more boutique than big box, but rapidly approaching.
  • 2 1
 @Baller7756: Even so, I don't get their popularity. If you've ridden other quality brands, how do you end up on a SC? It's not on price.
  • 2 2
 @rrolly: agreed, I’d rather ride a spesh than a SC
  • 2 1
 @rrolly: SC has a rep for quality and reliability… with a pretty stout warranty to boot. And the are MTB specific… unlike the other big box brands that make all types of bikes.
  • 2 0
 @Baller7756: Many brands have an equal rep for quality/reliability, and are MTB specific. I remember looking forward to finally demoing a couple of SC's a few years ago on the trails around Whistler. I was so surprised at how less enjoyable they were than the other bikes I rode. Not that they were terrible, but the other bikes just rode better. I've heard other people echo the same experience.
  • 1 0
 @rrolly: Interesting pov. I haven’t ridden one myself, so I can’t offer that perspective. I would like to build a new Bronson though. All the reviews talk about he improvements with the lower VPP setup. I must admit, I do enjoy having a more rarely seen Transition or Yeti though.
  • 1 0
 @Baller7756: This is the thing, I was so looking forward to riding the Bronson as well from what I've read. Then when I rode it, it took me half way through the ride to realize I was trying to convince myself that it was awesome. It wasn't that it was terrible, it just wasn't great. So different from my first ride on other bikes. My first rides on Norco's, Rocky's, and Specialized's were all great/really good.
  • 50 5
 This poll proves @mikelevy was right and everyone is overbiked on their 160/150 29er.
  • 89 0
 Old, lame and happily overbiked. Life is good
  • 9 0
 @pakleni: amen, brother.
  • 8 0
 Not necessarily. I think it's fair to say that PinkBike users probably represent the more aggressive riders out there. Other riders may be happy to over-bike for the rare occasions when they need more and put up with the weight/squish for the other 99.9% of their ride time.
  • 5 9
flag CSharp (Nov 25, 2021 at 11:59) (Below Threshold)
 This and the other polls show that most riders want to do or think they're doing what Sam Hill has done in Enduro racing. But really, most people can only handle the easy fire roads and tame XC trails. There's definitely a lot of nice bikes out on the trails these days and with riders decked out in full face helmets, goggles, elbow and knee pads - on easy trails. Makes me feel underdressed and underbiked! LOL
  • 12 3
 Better over biked than underf*cked Smile
  • 3 2
 @2pi: If you're overbiked and underskilled with a bear on your ass in a steep technical section, you'll be overf*cked Big Grin
  • 4 3
 Remember that "more capable" really means "handicap for a lack in bike handling."
  • 13 0
 I have more fun underbiked, but I seem to save money on hospitals overbiked.
  • 1 0
 This is just bad interpretation of the data.
  • 12 1
 @CSharp: This really bugs me.

If someone wants to wear full body armour on what you class as an easy trail let them.
You don't know their history or why they have it.

Not everyone is trying to look cool wearing it.
  • 9 0
 I get Levy's point and understand his argument about skilling up on a lower travel bike and yes longer travel can get you out of trouble easier meaning potentially lower skill-set but I think there's a counter-argument. I've been riding a 160mm for last year and I've been more comfortable and confident trying bigger things than I have tried before on it. As a consequence I feel I have learnt and developed more skills and become a better rider and can notice the improvement even when getting back and hitting stuff on the hardtail
  • 4 0
 Being over or under biked is such a subjective notion, different people have different perspectives and ability, it's just judgemental to call somone out for the bike they ride, if everyone's having fun then who cares. although if your bike is making parts of your ride not fun then maybe you are under or over biked.
  • 2 0
 @maglor: My comment above should (as always with everything on PB) be taken with a healthy pinch of salt.
  • 1 0
 @fartymarty: My apologies if it seemed i was calling you judgemental, my comment was more aimed at how it just keeps being a topic of discussion when it really doesnt matter what people choose to ride, they have thier reasons and even if they're wrong it doesnt effect anyone else.
  • 3 0
 @maglor: No offence taken - I was being sarcastic. There's nothing more fun than being on the wrong bike - whether it be over or underbiked. It's just riding bikes in the woods therefore best to ride what makes you happy. Also different bikes ride very differently irrespective of travel.
  • 2 0
 @thechunderdownunder: #UnderRatedComment : )
  • 3 0
 @pen9-wy: Yeah, Iv got to say that I don’t understand the over/under bike skill deal. I have several bikes (120mm, 150mm, and 165mm), and I ride them all on the same trails and one just as hard as the next. The big bikes don’t make me a better rider, and the short bike doesn’t either. I may hit bigger stuff on the bigger bikes, but not because it makes me better, but because the big bikes are less likely to be damaged from it.
  • 1 0
 @Baller7756: same 120 HT and 160/140 slack n long trail/enduro sled and ride the same trails albeit slower on the HT. I've just put some rigid forks on the HT for sh!ts n giggles and will still ride the same trails.
  • 33 5
 More eMtb than DH! No good PinkBikers
  • 6 1
 Yes it’s quite sad to see the amount of dh and freeride, dude .. 2% of dh ! Things change so much here. Fortunately theyre still lot of those bikes in the Park. Pinkbike just wasn’t a freeride website anymore and no one came here
  • 21 0
 Well, they’re talking primary bike…
  • 15 0
 Yeah I think there's a lot of people with their DH as their secondary bike. Dozens of us!
  • 3 9
flag stunnanumma1 (Nov 25, 2021 at 11:18) (Below Threshold)
 @DatCurryGuy: i don't know, my Superfoxy is not a DH bike. However, it can do everything thing at 180/180 that a DH can do, and then it can do more. I think it's just that DH bikes are dying.
  • 8 0
 @stunnanumma1: it can maybe do everything except what a DH bike can do and is meant to do which is compete at an elite level on a proper DH track. The difference won't be significant enough for the average rider because they don't have the talent or mentality to warrant a DH bike.
  • 5 4
 Die hard Downhiller here transferring to just one E-mtb now. I can't justify having a fleet of bikes I barely ride when one 180/170mm 63deg emtb will tick all those boxes. Trust me, it killed me to get rid of my bikes.... but it's the reality of my riding situation.
  • 5 0
 Die Hard Downhiller here, dont see the Point in selling my Downhill even if I just get to ride it between 15-25 Times a Year. I`ll just let it collect dust till the Day I need it
  • 3 0
 Die Hard Downhiller here, I ride my trail bike 90% of the time, but those 10% of DH park riding is very demanding, harsh and DH bike just handles much better. So for me it is totally worth to have DH bike, reduce wear on my 140/130 trail bike, and enjoy big park days instead of going around trails my 140mm bike cannot handle or will kill me on Big Grin
  • 2 0
 I didn't bother taking the polls... I own the lovely:

Transition Bottlerocket

Transition Dirtbag

Transition Vagrant

SC Super8

RB Monster

24Bikes Letoy

ADR Khaos...

I sold the Banshee Legend and am getting rid of the Yeti 303Dh but I love dh bikes... I just want something lighter. Sometimes Smile DH for life.
  • 16 0
 I ride a dirt jumper with 80mm 26er, a trail bike with 150/150 26er and a dh bike with 180/200 26er. All over a decade old except the trail bike which will turn a decade old next year. I still have a blast on all of them.
  • 1 0
 I like your attitude ... we dont have to buy a new bike till we need to or just want to ... I love my Cannondale Prophet 2005
  • 3 7
flag bertimusmaximus (Nov 25, 2021 at 22:33) (Below Threshold)
 Wow! You’re so great for being so frugal! Let’s hear more!
  • 3 0
 @bertimusmaximus: I'm not frugal I just enjoy the bikes I have and take good care of them, so I don't feel the need for a new bike. Sorry I'll try and be more like you and buy as new as I can and then be a complete dick to others when on bikes that are older then mine. Sounds like a good time....
  • 14 2
 Pinkbikers:
Have an eBike as primary: 3%
Would like a motor on their current bike: 2%
...
PB: let's flood the homepage with ebike content. iT rEfLeCtS tHe MaRkEt and isn't driven by advertising higher margin products at all.


The last question about ebike attitudes is so bad it's almost funny. 5 positive answer options and one negative phrased in a dickhead way to skew respondents away from picking it. All to be able to say "50% of you want to see ebikes on PB, you said so yourselves!" while completely ignoring those numbers above.
  • 12 1
 How come Specialized is so popular anyways? They are very expensive and I've had nothing but trouble with my Enduro since I bought it last year. Not the premium experience I paid for. I certainly won't buy any of their bikes again anytime soon.
  • 3 1
 Their bikes are consistently decent and (at least in my area) they have a strong dealer network. They are the only ones that have bikes in stock right now. Trek stores around me have stock but the longtime indie dealer has like 3 bikes - not sure why but it doesn't bode well for non-corporate owned stores.
  • 10 15
flag Brave1i1toaster (Nov 25, 2021 at 16:47) (Below Threshold)
 @office: I've got nothing against Specialized or SC, but I wouldn't be caught dead on either. A motto I've always lived by is "If everyone is doing X, go with Y".
  • 2 0
 Enormous dealer network in North America and a product catalog that spans from carbon balance bikes to mullet DH sleds. Also - Stumpjumper is nearly synonymous with “mountain bike” to many people
  • 4 0
 They’re seen as both the top level of the generic brands (along with Trek) and the most affordable of the premium brands (which Trek hasn’t achieved as well). Add to that their history, expansive catalogue, and dealer network.
  • 5 3
 Man, in the last year or two, Specialized has been killing it. Two or three of their bikes were the best in class in their field tests last year. They make good stuff, and are pretty well-specced for their price. And they have dealers everywhere— at least three that I can think of in my town. Maybe a couple more.
  • 1 0
 To me, it looks like this is mainly North-American data. All other brands differ from the European ones.
  • 6 0
 There is a huge difference in Euro and North America Specialized. For all non Euro-Bikers: Specialized has about the same "dentist image" like Yeti over the pond. Spec should definately work on the image side of things in Europe, because the products are top.

No hate at all!
  • 1 0
 what kind of problems? I mean I might buy one too
  • 3 1
 Every time I’ve ridden a Specialized it’s never wowed me. Just middle of the road in every aspect. Not bad but not great either.
  • 1 0
 What issues? Ive had my enduro for 2 full seasons now and dont have many complaints other than the cable routing burns through shifter cable housing, and I have blown my DPX2 twice. Other than that the thing is sick.
  • 1 0
 My 2018 E29 had been bullet proof since I bought it new. I did buy it as a left over model when the 2019 came out so the price was WAY on the lower end. I have quite a few bikes right now, and frames to build, none of them are the same brand.
  • 2 0
 @fattyheadshok: That's how I feel about them aswell. Back in spring when shopping for a new trail bike I demo'd a 2021 Stumpjumper. I ended up not buying it because it didn't compare favourably to the Tallboy and Optic I also tried.
  • 2 2
 I went with the 2021 stumpjumper carbon after comparing it to pretty much every other bike in the category. The stumpy came out on top value-wise, extremely good spec for the money (although the price has gone up for the 2022 model). Also things like the great geo, SWAT storage, good warranty, and light weight. My Stumpy is a solid 3-4lbs lighter than similar trail bikes and the new carbon frame is just a thing of beauty, makes me smile everytime i look at it.
  • 1 0
 @mtbforlife4: Three broken frames within two seasons. All were approved for warranty without any complication, but what good is that if each new frame they send me as a replacement has another production defect...
  • 1 0
 @SimonJaeger: I owned a 2017 demo 8 and the main pivot point/bocket bracket all in one nightmare ate itself and I found BB bearing balls in the grease of my headset, lovely to buy bearings worth 200€ and the local specialised dealer had no idea how to fix it, so I had to fix it myself. They even told me that 5-10mm play in the pivot is normal Big Grin
  • 18 5
 So to conclude - everyone should buy a stumpy evo
  • 2 0
 Fax yo
  • 4 1
 You joke, but it might be my next bike.
  • 1 1
 They seem to be replacing a lot of Santa Cruzes around here fo sho.
  • 13 3
 People feeling very inspired by Transition's trajectory these days. Went from a Megatower to a Sentinel and I'll never look back.
  • 8 24
flag SimonJaeger (Nov 25, 2021 at 11:52) (Below Threshold)
 Name matches the bike. The Sentinel is such a dads bike.
  • 17 1
 @SimonJaeger: I don’t owner either of those but how would a Sentinel be more of a dad bike than pretty much anything Santa Cruz makes?
  • 6 2
 @SimonJaeger: I'll be your daddy
  • 9 1
 @SimonJaeger: Lol what? There is no brand screaming "dad" louder than santa cruz Big Grin
  • 2 0
 @bananowy: If Big Daddy were still with us, he'd ride a Megatower for sure. Or maybe the Heckler ebike actually, given his size.
  • 2 0
 My GF loves her Patrol. And I look at how it performs from afar and I am impressed. I just can't ride it since there is 8" of height difference.
  • 2 0
 @SimonJaeger: I was really impressed with the new sentinel with a cc link.
  • 8 0
 The bike brands pie chart is very misleading. A pie chart implies displaying 100% of the data, but this pie is only something like 62% of all responses. The "other brands" slice is only the "other brands" category from the survey; but to be accurate it should be about 43% of this pie.
  • 8 2
 Pie charts are business school level trash. Only really used in corporate by dumbshits. Avoid. There's almost always a better way to graph it.
  • 26 0
 @dirtyburger: pick a chart type and be a dick about it.
  • 2 0
 MMM... I am eating leftover pupmkin pie right now, and it is %100 percent mine. You make a fabulous point above there...
  • 2 0
 Just checked and I disagree. This is a donut chart. A pie chart doesn't have a hole in the middle. A donut chart is used explicitly to not display certain data. A donut chart that displays all data is wrong use of a donut chart. Pinkbike strictly adheres to donuts and everything associated with donuts (donut charts in particular) hence a Pinkbike chart inherently doesn't show all data. So yeah, rest assured all is good. The chart is supposed to be misleading.
  • 2 0
 @vinay: Salute didn't get most of that, but I can spot a grim joke a mile away Wink Donuts are awesome.
  • 10 0
 Ima stick with my heavy AF 26 dh bike, I don’t need a 29er to have hella fun.
  • 5 0
 I would probably buy a mullet dh bike tho, they look kinda fun.
  • 5 0
 Love these surveys. Quick thought, would it not make sense to do the rear travel split by 135 - 145, 146 - 155, 156 - 165 etc. So many bikes fall on decisions of 10. 150mm - 160mm is really two categories in one, hence having double the number of the options on either side.
  • 6 0
 Pinkbike doesn't hold much interest for Cross Country riders, so the results are probably biassed towards downhill or enduro riders.
  • 1 0
 I am pretty sure there are a bunch of XCers in the closet, afraid to say it because the commenters will jump on them. I love racing XC.
  • 5 1
 2.9% of you guys REALLY need to reconsider buying a YT. If it’s anything like my experience, it’ll crack due to manufacturing defects, you’ll submit a warranty claim, they’ll tell you it’s 6-10 weeks out and 15 months later you’ll still be empty handed and they won’t even reply to your emails anymore.
  • 6 2
 for a time Specialized and Trek were competing as equals for Cycling brand dominance, 15 years later i see 10% of pinkers own an Spesh, wonder what happened... did the Lance dopping affect Trek sales and never truly recover? Trek couldnt adjust to the inclusion of new brands and Specialized did?
  • 4 1
 Gwin left.
  • 5 4
 Im guessing whom ever was Treks industrial designer from 2008-2013 must have left the company because their bikes have looked like ass since. The ride quality of a Trek is dam near the best IMO but most don't want to ride a bike that has no visual appeal..
  • 5 0
 @yamaboy2000: IMO the new Slash looks pretty good. Very well proportioned, clean lines, everything neat and tidy
  • 4 1
 @yamaboy2000: imho I think that Trek's look perfectly fine.
  • 11 1
 I didn't buy a Trek because of Lance, but by the time I buy my next bike, I will think of Jolanda before Lance
  • 8 2
 @yamaboy2000: The idea that 2008-2013 industrial design represents an apex of visual appeal is a deeply weird take.
  • 1 0
 @yamaboy2000: that was the Hydroforming Aluminum Frame Era, it was function before form (manufacturing function), a carbon bike was a high luxury back then and Hydroforming and aluminum forming molds have improved and reduce its prices.

I had a 2009 Trek Fuel Ex, i hated the design, but the bike won quite a few XC races and an excellent bunny hopper.
  • 2 0
 @taprider: yeah, those days are long gone. Jolanda is doing a pretty good job promoting the brand also.
  • 1 0
 @yamaboy2000: maybe ride quality is good but overal quality of the 2021 bikes were bad... owned 3 of them. all poor.
  • 1 0
 @bigburd: good point. it might've been one of the reasons...
  • 4 0
 Trek needs to do something besides incrementally update their 2017 frames to get people's attention again. Specialized radically redesigned the Enduro and made the Stumpjumper less of a dad-bike and more appealing to aggressive riders. Even if Trek is updating the geo and suspension they still look like the same knock-block bikes that came out in 2017.
  • 1 0
 @bigburd: But intense hasn’t seen much growth, so I’m not sure if it’s that.
  • 2 0
 @BikesNRussets: i would 100% put that down to outdated bikes and expensive.
  • 1 0
 @mtbtrekracer: My tracer rides pretty well, but I’m not as picky as 99.99% of riders so that probably effects my experience. My tracer had pretty good spec for the price, but people care a lot about drivetrains nowadays, it has a deore. I tear apart drivetrains super fast so I prefer to not put money into that. The one thing that sucked on it were the stock grips, I just got new ones and had the shop keep those because they were so bad. But I’m a completely different rider than most, so what I care about doesn’t really effect most riders.

I see that you are a trek rider, what do you like about trek? Never really been a big fan of trek so i would love to hear about it from a trek rider.
  • 1 0
 @BikesNRussets: no longer ride trek's, 3 models from 2021 that were poor put me off.
Our countrys importer for intense has every bike in every size available and trying to push to sell them but people are just wanting other brands even with big wait times.

i have access to Intense bikes through working relations at cost but i cant bring myself to buy one, the geo is quite old, i sat on a large carbine (my normal size) and at 455 reach i was cramped but then stretched out seated with a massive 655 ETT, 65.5 head angle(which is only possible from the spacer they decided to use to "update" their geo)... combined with 445 CS its just a weird setup IMO.

Im not a hater and i would buy a modern geo one if they went to say 475-480 reach 64HA etc.
  • 2 0
 @mtbtrekracer: Yeah man, intense bikes fit small, so I usually size up one.
  • 1 0
 @BikesNRussets: i did check that, but then certain things are waaay out there like ETT/seat post, and the HA is still 65.5.
Im currently on a Rocky Altitude and Mega, absolutely love them, especially the rocky.
  • 2 0
 @mtbtrekracer: yeah man, Rocky Mountain bikes are sick.
  • 1 0
 @yamaboy2000: Trek have the most-consistent visual design of any brand (apart from Orange).
It might make them a bit dull, but you can hardly say there's a fundamental difference to the pre-2013 bikes.
The saying isn't "looks like a Demo", is it?
  • 1 0
 @BikesNRussets: it’s crazy to me how overlooked they are. My Slayer is such an incredible bike.
  • 7 1
 Been on the same 26 Dh bike for 6 successful years.
Is it time to change yet?
Or should I accept that training is the most important thing.
  • 1 0
 Skills, then balls then fitness then bike. Hmm maybe fitness above balls if it's more pedaling.
  • 1 0
 Only if there is a discernable benefit. If it ain't broken, don't fix it!
  • 3 2
 @TheBrickOriginal: fitness is just having the balls to truly bury yourself so you can't even get out of bed the next day.
  • 4 0
 @TheBrickOriginal: Talent comes a long way...i would say Talent kills all. Then training and determination. Balls will only get you hurt, it is just a matter of soon or later.
  • 4 0
 I'm sure Rocky Mountain's Sales dept isn't suffering from excess stomach over their (reasonably) abysmal showing in this section, but surprised they're lower than Norco. Although the operative word in this section is "likely purchase":

Which brand of complete mountain bike will you likely purchase next? (Top 50 brands)

...

Norco: 4.88%
Trek: 4.45%
Ibis: 3.94%
Canyon: 3.63%
Yeti: 3.28%
Pivot: 3.13%
YT Industries: 2.90%
Rocky Mountain: 2.89%
  • 3 0
 Over here I haven’t seen an RM in a shop in over a decade. On the other hand Norco has an extensive dealer network.
  • 2 0
 @Mike-Jay: Interesting, thanks.

In my area (Greater Van) I see a heap of Norco's, but that makes sense since the company was birthed here in 1964.
  • 2 0
 I'm looking for a new long travel trail bike or enduro and tbh my next bike could very well be a Norco Sight. Lots of videos of Canadian riders beating the absolute crap out of theirs on black trails on the shore. Seems to be a reliable steed. I'm more surprised about finding Trek and Ibis so far down the list. If you went by PB comments, you'd expect to see Ibis at the very top. Ibis owners seem to be a very vocal bunch.
  • 8 5
 IMHO - Buy the bike brand where the engineers are your nearish neighbors and ride similar terrain and conditions and forget about some brand in a far away state making the best bike for your area, cause that's not how it works.
  • 6 0
 The thought of a Scalpel with a Lefty being the most appropriate bike for me is deeply unsettling

Mostly because it’s true
  • 4 0
 Trying to work out if Europe or North America is closest to Australia…
  • 1 0
 So if I live in Gary, Indiana, which company might be making the ideal bike for me? Columbus, Ohio? Jacksonville, Fla.? New Orleans? Houston?
  • 2 0
 @Mike-Jay: Polygon?
  • 1 0
 @Mike-Jay: Zerode.
  • 1 0
 @Mike-Jay: Craftworks
  • 5 1
 So according to this, the least popular bike is an ugly ghost fat bike with 180+mm of suspension, and no room for a water bottle.

Maybe this should be the criteria for the next grim donut ?
  • 10 0
 The Salsa Bucksaw says hello
  • 6 0
 Now that Pink Bike is moving to a subscription model, you'll need to send me $100 for this sort of useful marketing data...
  • 2 0
 Am I missing something on the first graphic or what ?

All the brands on the left half account for 31% but take 50% of the graphic, top 3 account for 27% but take about 45%, and "other brands" seem to acount for about 30%, yet it only takes about 5% in the graphic.

It gives a misleading representation.
  • 5 3
 I've said it before.. but you guys need to give fatbikes a chance. My Ice Cream Truck stretches my riding season, and let's me ride places and conditions nothing else can touch... I ride all the rivers, streams and ponds that snake around and through my local trails. Beautiful scenery, and I'm usually the only one out there... And it's fun to bushwhack and ride with the kids in warmer weather. If you can manage an N+1... Tons of fun.
  • 3 1
 I'm staggered that smaller brands like Yeti, Ibis, Norco and Transition are within a shout of Giant for sales. You'd think Giant's reach would be greater. Interesting regardless.
  • 5 0
 Have you seen a Giant? My LBS would have to pay me retail price on the bike for me to ride much so no way I’d buy one.
  • 5 0
 Among a sample size of Pinkbike readers - Giant moves a metric boatload of entry level Stances.
  • 3 0
 This os a niche site. If you took overall numbers on the trails I would say numbers would be different
  • 1 0
 If we take my scientific research that is based on French buyer behavour (i.e. what I saw at the French Enduro Series in Les Houches this Sep), it was dominated by Commencal Meta AM's. It seemed like 40% of the field. Other surprises included the number of Mondrakers (many more that I expected) and lack of Specialized. So in many ways, a polar opposite of the PB data above
  • 1 0
 Yep, and in the Netherlands you'll almost only see Cube and Canyon XC bikes.
  • 1 0
 Gwin seemed to elevate previous brands (especially legitimize YT ) , but has some serious work to do if intense wants to establish (maybe re-establish) itself as a player. Seems like an influx of money has been put in recently , thought the market share would reflect this, but not so with this survey anyway.
  • 5 0
 What bike does not matter, any wheel size will do fine!
  • 2 0
 thats the spirit
  • 3 0
 Even that 36” er?
  • 1 0
 @bravefart: 36er That is is more like riding a ferris wheel any bigger & you can ride inside it?
  • 2 0
 @aljoburr: makes me think- what’s next ?

one could design an off-road going human sized hamster wheel
  • 2 0
 Absolutely so. But the market is pushing towards 29, by not making 26 and 27. Don’t like this.
  • 2 0
 The only way to make a decent meaningful change to my current bike would be to buy one with a different wheel size. So once everyone has a 29er, will the next change be to more playful little wheels?
  • 4 0
 That's actually the trajectory I followed. Started out on a 26" hardtail. Then, when I was ready to splash out on a full squish, I got a 29er. This year, I decided I might as well give 27.5 a try since I know some riders (even tall ones such as myself) swear by them.

Maybe this is just placebo effect, but it does indeed feel more playful and easier to jump with.
  • 2 0
 I’m quite surprised that so many people ride or would plan to buy a Specialized or Santa Cruz, they’re a total ripoff. There’s plenty of equally good or better specced bike brands out there at waaay cheaper prices.
  • 2 1
 Such as?
  • 1 0
 Currently ride a carbon Transition Patrol and have an aluminium Transition Scout on order. Not fussed about going mullet or switching to 29” wheels and no interest in getting an e-bike either, certainly not while I’ve still a pretty decent level of fitness. At 56 and having played a lot of sport, my knees are prone to protesting on occasion, but I can still spin my way up most climbs.
  • 1 0
 Mullet is pretty awesome. Have you ridden one?
  • 1 0
 No option for NS bikes

I only think the negative comments to Eebs has ‘mellowed’ is because people get bored of moaning about the same thing.

I personally do not think they should exist in the modern world, regardless of you reason for owning one.
It’s just another item with a battery that requires energy and resources.

Ride a normal bike wether for thrills or transport and power it with your own legs.
  • 3 0
 All I learned was people do no research and just buy whatever big brand their LBS sells….
  • 4 2
 Poll question: How much rear suspension do you plan on your next bike having?

shows that nobody really cares about your downcountry crap:-)))
  • 5 3
 the differnce is - trail/enduro riders spend more time on here complaining about ebikes than out riding, those downcountry riders are more than likely riding their bikes instead of being on PB.
Gravel is far worse example, those are stupid bikes 100%
  • 3 1
 @mtbtrekracer:

You just massively contradicted yourself.
How can you defend down country then hate on gravel?

Gravel bikes suit some riders and not others. Just like your comment towards down country riders.

Maybe gravel bike riders are riding more than the down country riders so spending even less time moaning on PB.

Mind blow...
  • 3 4
 @Allen82: no, downcountry bikes are atleast MTB.. very similar to XC bikes.(and are more gravel bikes than gravel bikes)

Gravel bikes are road bikes with different tyres with some other slight changes.

Gravel bikes are the absolute most pathetic attempt at road bikers attempting to ride their stuff offroad.
in reality gravel bikes are absolutely terrible on gravel and is highly misleading. (yes i've ridden one then rode my XC bike in those same areas and its waaaaay better in every aspect.)

You can try BS gravel bikes all you want... atleast Downcountry makes some sense

theres a post somewhere about how both downcountry and Gravel is just a marketing scheme by brands to move more bikes without having to design a whole new bike and there was proof ie same bikes slightly modified ie tyres etc and sold as a different catagory.
  • 2 4
 @mtbtrekracer:

Again. Its YOUR opinion. Doesn't make it right.

Each style of bike makes sense for its use. You can't just say its shit because you don't have a use for it.

Some people have a gravel bike as their only bike and use it litterally everywhere.
Some people have 5 bikes for each particular style of riding.

Can you ride DH on and XC bike. Yes.
Can you ride a DH bike on the road. Yes.
Doesn't mean its the best tool for the job.

(FYI I don't own a gravel bike and trying to defend it)
  • 1 3
 @Allen82: you've missed the point, run along lad and let the adults talk.
  • 2 2
 @Allen82: LOL, the reason for the comments went right over your head.
There was no opinion i could see other than fact i've read that post trekracer mentioned and its actually mindboggling the screenshots which have now been removed by many brands.

Gravel makes zero sense as the bikes suck - i bought one and its horrible to ride on anything other than the road...
  • 3 0
 @mtbtrekracer: Perhaps...

But you've missed the give away of "82" in my username proving I am Indeed an adult...
  • 3 0
 More PB riders ride emtb than fat bike, freeride/park and dirt jump/4x/street combined/fakt
  • 2 0
 I wonder if the numbers would have been different if they had actually defined what the categories are. Is one man's downcountry another man's trail bike?
  • 4 0
 Yeah well....KONA!!
  • 2 0
 Almost Portuguese for...
  • 1 0
 The Process 153 29 is as close to a perfect bike you can get.
  • 1 0
 @TheR: I used to have a 153 and a 111, both of which I loved. The looks are a bit challenging for me now though. They just seem a bit generic.
  • 2 0
 @chakaping: Really? I think they look pretty sleek. The colors can be out there, though.
  • 2 0
 great marketing here for the big S, so vote for Pedro and his SledgeHammer next time
  • 1 0
 Bar charts?

Naw, we don't need visualizations.
Better make it look accurate though -- report to the nearest 100th of a percent.
  • 1 0
 "a carbon-framed Specialized enduro bike with 29" wheels and 150-160mm travel" is literally the very bike I am waiting for to arrive. Gray. Sad.
  • 3 0
 Me over here riding Canfield bikes since 2017...there's dozens of us!
  • 15 12
 #neverspecialized
  • 8 12
flag BikesNRussets (Nov 25, 2021 at 10:13) (Below Threshold)
 Specialized, more like specialED.
  • 16 8
 Yawn. Their bikes are dialed and no longer do the proprietary nonsense. Hard to find better performance and value out there.
  • 9 0
 @MikeyMT:

Good bikes except they went too light and they’re cracking like eggs.
  • 3 1
 @MikeyMT: Dialed? Lol. Just look a how many people are breaking the frame of the current Enduro, me included. Great bike but so incredibly fragile. I should just have bought a Santa Cruz or a Norco.
  • 5 1
 @MikeyMT: And where do you get the idea that they are good value?
  • 2 2
 @SimonJaeger: middle of the road builds are on point and spec'd smart...cant argue that. Sorry your frame broke, guessing they gave you a crash replacement.
  • 3 0
 @SimonJaeger: specialized status was good value
  • 1 1
 Always really interesting to see how my own views stack up with others. I gotta say, my personal bike is nearly exactly what the final product was...
  • 4 2
 "Your Mom" - cannot believe my daily driver isn't listed!
  • 4 1
 27.5" aint dead
  • 1 0
 Enduro/all mountain: 50.22% yet PB is flooded 'with wheels in the air' cobblers?
  • 2 0
 5ft 8inch 27.5 marin short reach
  • 2 2
 if the pinkbike bike is a carbon frame, 150-160mm travel, 29er from Specialized... then the Pinkbike bike is a.. Spez Stumpy Evo? ‍♂️
  • 3 0
 That is what I bought and it’s excellent
  • 1 0
 When I took the survey I voted that my next bike would be a Specialized, but I actually ended up with a Devinci.
  • 1 0
 If anyone's wondering... That's my one 26+ rear wheel accounting for probably about a third of the 0.27% of wheels
  • 2 0
 Weight matters whether it makes a difference or not.
  • 2 0
 Not surprised by the poll that many want to make their bikes lighter. If you just pedal on flat grounds,than yeah weight doesn't matter, but with an mtb, you climb lots, you jump, throw it around, maybe have to carry it, make all kinds of body shifts and movements. Over a long distance it's ads up and a heavy bike will be simply much more exhausting to ride. Riding my 16kg enduro bike feels twice the workout than my 13kg trail bike. I still use and love both.
  • 1 0
 The two most overpriced brands are first and second. Unless.. no, it's the children who are wrong!
  • 1 0
 So buy an Enduro basically...
  • 1 0
 "downcountry" can sod off
  • 5 5
 50% of people are wanting to spend twice as much to get a carbon frame because iT'lL mAkE mE fAsTeR
  • 4 3
 Odds are you're over biked just to look/feel cool.
  • 4 0
 Maybe, but I’m having a good time anyway.
  • 2 3
 never trust a poll you haven't faked haha... I assume the PB has complete integrity on this one. What an impact it could make if they twist some of those numbers...
  • 1 0
 Hardtail’s in 3rd for current bike. Rear suspension wise anyway. BOOM!
  • 1 0
 Whats your oldest bike you still ride?
  • 1 0
 Wow, neither of my bike brands made it.
  • 1 0
 Those fat bike percentages are too high.
  • 1 1
 Great Free marketing surveys that outside will sell to the highest bidders. just like all the other pinkbike polls
  • 4 0
 How could they try and sell this when it’s available for free right here?
  • 1 0
 @adamstraus: there is much more than what you're seeing here and the dozens and dozens of polls theyve conducted are all being sold for data collection to give brands a better under of their potential markets.
don't get me wrong i'm in the industry and understand why they're doing it, but its nice to let people know that when they fill out a poll that the information is going to be sold later
  • 1 0
 @sirbikealot: Are they really selling their reader poll results to bike brands' market research departments? Or is it just to grease the wheels when they're trying to sell advertising?
  • 1 0
 Ghost Slamr 6.7 - Green Bicycles Scope - Ns Bikes Capital
  • 1 0
 Dentists at 4%. Thought it’d be less to be honest.
  • 1 1
 I thought everyone rode a Session.
  • 2 1
 2% DH

Feelsbadman
  • 1 0
 a "pinker" huh?







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