Who Should Ride An XC Mountain Bike?

[@PaulThePunter]

If you want to treat yo' self, use that code PUNTER15 for 15% off your first purchase 👉bit.ly/2VItcyb

[@BikingwithJP]

10:30 woohoo! So happy to win this! As promised Paul I’ve already ordered a Seca 2500 Enduro! www.competitivecyclist.com/light-motion-seca-2500-enduro Can’t wait for my order to arrive 🥳

[@noet5329]

Awesome video with the collaborations. With $500 from Competitive Cyclist I would get my son some nice knee, shin and elbow pads so he can stop getting hurt all the time. Maybe a new helmet.

[@That.Guy.]

I would spend the $500 on weed. Ever try mtb’ing on weed?

[@nagylevi3827]

I can't write about this from any sort of professional perspective but what I can state is that, with my XC, I can go to the shops and to work every day, If I so choose, I can ride up and down my local forest paths with decent speed and with confidence and, when my road bike's in the shop, I can do fifty mile workouts on tarmac in utter comfort and at a decent pace. To me, it's a do it all bike that is both relatively cheap and quite reliable. It excels at nothing but, then again, as an amateur cyclist, neither do I so we're a perfect match.

[@stevewalsh7082]

Sometimes we need to be realistic about how much bike we actually need and not pretend life is lived in a bike park. Love my xc hardtail .

[@YuichiTamaki]

So true, after being honest with myself I realized that 90% of the time I would ride on a flatter surface

[@nxadventures9510]

True, but sometimes the terrain around you screws you over and your flow trails are made completely out of fist sized rocks. Yay Croatia.

[@the_letti0584]

@@YuichiTamaki all the flatter stuff got boring for me but id have to get a new fork, better breaks and tires to ride some steeper stuff without destroying me or my bike but even with those upgrades i wouldnt hit any jumplines so i decided to get an enduro bike. I love it cuz i can ride without the fear of my fork collapsing 😂

[@flowstateofmind]

I want to live in a bike park though

[@toetz4491]

I like my Marin team 2 geo with 67 head angle and 120 fork.. im done with skittish steep angled xc

[@joekempz7731]

I’d say XC is a very acquired taste I bought an XC bike at the start this summer..... long story short my enduro rig comes this week

[@tristandesade8635]

I found this to be funny. XC Bike is closer to an „average“ or „normal“ bike. Perhaps you have started with enduro bike. I use to ride road bike before MTB, and only MTBs I found to be movable enough are XC hardtails and rigids. I have tried a few enduro bikes and hated the sluggish bobbing feeling from my guts. 🤔🤔🤔

[@cockedcap]

@@tristandesade8635 I share your opinion. That's the great thing about variety though. Just because Enduro isn't right for me doesn't mean it's wrong.

[@nebnollock5198]

@@tristandesade8635 may I introduce you to the aggressive hardtail, solid pedaling platform but aggressive geometry so you can tackle those decent

[@nebnollock5198]

@Oscar Bailey everything's relative 😂

[@brentharding846]

stating mtb riding on an old Turner Downhill bike so would like to experience XC bike

[@georgegande1779]

Great to have syd on this video, she’s such a smiley and bubbly person!!

[@PaulThePunter]

She sure is!

[@edmundscycles1]

Syd or SiD ..........I'll see myself out !

[@bentyler5704]

Me * buys a 170 enduro bike * Also me “hmm maybe I should watch this”

[@Safewoood]

170 bikes are prob my favorite

[@stricklander]

I’m literally 50 seconds into the video and just had to comment about how KILLER this footage looks. The lighting, coloring...shots! Great job!

[@grantpatterson7090]

Agree. Always impressed with the production quality, shots, lighting, and narration in Paul’s videos. He’s flat out good at it.

[@Jacob99174]

Completely agreed that trail bikes are becoming more capable, but leaving a larger gap between XC “Down country” is a very capable tool, and one of the most fun ‘new’ categories

[@FredVanAllenRealtor]

I loved the purest of my XC HT, but I am 70 and needed some compliance for the rough stuff. I have since purchased at Siskyu D7. I lock out the front and back suspicion for most of my ride, but engage the suspensions for the techie stuff.

[@colinress]

This video really is right on! I got a XC bike and have not regretted it so far.

[@bs8716]

I didn’t realize that there was a word for this type if riding. I knew I didn’t need a modern mtb (trail bike). So I found an older mtb frame (‘02 Trek 8000) and put modern parts on it. I really enjoy it.

[@BikingwithJP]

4:30 - Dropper post is one of my favourite new inventions 🤘game changer!

[@doubletrackdodger2512]

I’ve decided to not get one, to save myself from the “never going back”

[@nate390]

@@doubletrackdodger2512 This is a problem of the past, with a little bit of maintenance you wont have issues

[@nebnollock5198]

@@doubletrackdodger2512 true ones you have one there's no going back 😂😂 Would still recommend though, you can literally half your times on those up and down sections

[@doubletrackdodger2512]

@@nebnollock5198 true... probably on my next bike, my current one doesn’t work Ben have the routing for a dropper 😬

[@nebnollock5198]

@@doubletrackdodger2512 that sucks they're not cheap. Luckily their reliability has increased with the newer ones, I've ran mine for a year with no issues, just remember to always wipe down the seals after every ride

[@josephgoodsman321]

Personally, I would use the money to make my xc bike better suited to harder more aggressive riding by slackening the head tube angle using an angle kit, installing a 130mm fork, giving it a new front tire, and giving it a new bar and stem combo. This money would really mean a lot to me. I have done all the instructions correctly. Good luck to anyone reading this

[@That.Guy.]

So basically you’d rather have a trail bike

[@69sound81]

All of this makes me think about the yeti arc. I find that bike to be a super nice middle groung between XC and Trail. This new "Down Country" family is something that to me is a perfect marriage between the fun of the trail focused bikes and the racing machines of the XC bikes. Just perfect to be that all aroung bike to use on any situation. It will be super suitable for XC, trail, commuting, etc. I am saving up to buy that frame and build it to be the ultimate tip of the line bespoke bike that can handle it all

[@magicunicorn6535]

I just got an XC hardtail, and I'm thrilled with how much better it handles, climbs and accelerates. I also went from 29ers to 27.5 tires, and that size is perfect for me. Trail switchbacks on my 29er bike made me feel like I was riding a Penny Farthing. And the light weight of a carbon bike makes life so much easier, whether mounted on the bike or handling it on the ground.

[@davecech4741]

One of the biggest lessons learned by adding a "down-country" bike to my quiver (vs. a 29'er HT) is that bike weight just doesn't matter all that much, at least for me. If I'm going to ride 2-4 hours, capability and comfort wins out over all out efficiency. I certainly benefit more in the 2nd half of my ride with the full-suspension bike doing a much better job of soaking up the terrain than my HT. Wider tires, rims & bars, a little more relaxed geometry, a little more travel, and a dropper win the day over the 3-4 pounds you save with a toothpick hardtail and getting your ass kicked all ride.

[@zlobaplays]

I know it's been a year since your comment but it caught my eye as that's something i've not seen saying anyone. I'm a beginner trying to get my 1st bike after almost 20 years and i thought that a light XC bike with more narrow tires should do the trick for me (long trips, light to medium terrain, no big jumps). I'm curious if you still stay behind your statement after a year. Are you saying that capability and comfort (wider tires, more droop, full suspension) makes you feel less tired at the end of a long trip compared to lightweight, nimbleness and speed of an HT XC bike? I thought that you "work" harder on a trail bike so it does make you feel tired quicker and that the hardtail isn't that big of a deal.

[@davecech4741]

@@zlobaplays 100% stand by my comments. Look at what the pros are riding in world cup XC races nowadays. Slacker geometry, 120mm travel, 2.3x29 tires with wide rims, seat droppers. Check out the recent Nove Mesto race highlights and you will see. I just purchased a new gravel bike, and even for that I went with a bike with suspension (Diverge STR) vs. without (Crux). This was after my buddy (who works at Specialized) hooked me up with weekend long demos for each and about 6 hours of saddle time on each bike. Before riding them, I was biased towards the Crux, but my buddy implored me to try both before pulling the trigger on my purchase. After riding them back to back, the comfort and capability of the STR (at least for me) easily won out over saving 3lbs of bike weight with the Crux, which I could certainly lose in body weight just by skipping dessert once in a while. With all that said, if where you are riding is mostly moderate terrain, you'll be fine on a HT, and you will probably save some $$$. I saw your comment about narrow tires. NO!!!! You will be faster and more comfortable on wider (25-30mm wide) rims and 29x2.3 or 2.4 tires (tubeless with sealant is a must), running low pressure (20-25 PSI depending on your body weight) so don't go narrow (2.1 or less). I know it sounds counterintuitive - but trust me, wide rubber and rims are the way to go.

[@zlobaplays]

​@@davecech4741 Ok i think i understand now. The thing is my budget is around bikes like Bobcat Trail 5, Storm 2 or Marlin 6/7/8 which i've discovered only recently. I think a full suspension in that price range would be of a very low quality so that is out of the question as i would rather have a good HT frame and components slightly above the lowest budget entry level ones. I also will be riding 60-70% gravel roads (field and forest tracks) and the rest will be only light to medium trails. I did look at gravel bikes but figured that it will be uncomfortable for rides on the more rough terrain. But thanks for your reply, much appreciated!

[@davecech4741]

@@zlobaplays Sure thing. Go for a hardtail, maximum flexibility.

[@maximls8121]

Please do hardtail trailbikes, especially as low budget beginner option

[@stevencole7331]

A budget version is what I ride which is a hardtail . It will be heavier and have less gearing so it will take more effort to pedal . You will get stronger but there will be an extreme pain period until your body adapts and gets in bike shape . I did not upgrade from my budget hardtail after owning the bike for a couple years . I am satisfied with what I have and I have fun on it but I have had some crashes which isn't unusual but a better bike may be a safer option to ride as it builds more confidence .

[@33jayy]

He will not do that, he only cares about the bikes which are comfortable, safe and premium bikes.

[@rlake349]

I have the same school of thought. Just purchased a specialized chisel comp.👍🏻

[@CarbonRider1]

I bought my dream trail bike a few years ago and rarely road it. This year I got a gravel bike and and have ridden it 2xs more than my trail bike, and even on local tame single track. I came to the same conclusion as your video does. My riding style isn’t sending it down gnarly descents. I prefer exploring, climbing and being challenged by trails. The local trails out here don’t warrant a big trail bike, so over biked and bored. CX would be a better choice for many, and in my case, I’m happy on a gravel bike.

[@azovandy14.88]

The majority of trail and enduro riders never get close to the limits of their bikes and are just fooling themselves into thinking they need the extra bike when in reality they would be so much better served on a short travel xc.

[@josephdunbar2105]

I’m 55, race locally and actually pretty competitive. I have a lot of fun and enjoy working to prepare. What I’ve found is that my XC bikes beat the hell outta me and my body feels it for a day or two or three! Modern recovery supplements help. I’ve started training more on my trail bike for two reasons. Trail bike is heavier and it doesn’t beat me up and it enhances my ability, jumping off a heavier bike to a lighter bike. I ride Epic and Stumpjumper

[@bikesnmore]

Pretty good advice there mate. On my XC F1000 Cannondale 2006 frame, I raised my bars, beefed up my rims to reduce buckling and threw on a Fox 32 140mm travel on the front. It's now closer to the angles of a Trail bike but still light and nimble. As you said it can now tackle more intense tracks and with a simple change of tyres goes well on the road as well. Good Vid!

[@GoodTrails]

No mention of bib tights, clipless pedals or lefty forks? I want my money back!

[@jond1915]

He had to hold something back, couldn’t COMPLETELY destroy the trail/enduro/Dh market in just one video 🤙

[@Safewoood]

Yes because wearing lycra is the coolest thing ever and everyone will think you look greeeeaaat.........

[@AmsyarHanif]

I raced XC on my 150mm trail bike yesterday..let's just say I'm in love with XC racing now and am considering to get an xc bike

[@zwingler]

XC is very controlled IMO. For me, i just love hucking it, so for me it's superenduro. Not sure how i would approach an XC bike.

[@kiltymacbagpipe]

The trails I ride are mainly XC but I’d like the ability to do some gravity fee riding too, so short travel trail bikes or down country bike seem to be an appealing option to me. If I had $500 maybe I’d upgrade some components to make my existing bike a bit more robust, brakes for sure, for tackling some more downhill oriented rides.

[@core-i7413]

Cross-Country bikes used to be bad and used to only be able to climb, and used to rattle you to death. Now, that has changed. With better Cross-Country and with Down-Country bikes, they can speed through climbs and bomb on the downhills without difficulty. I race Cross-Country, and I was blown away about how much better modern, full-suspension Cross-Country bikes were compared to my 2013 XC Hardtail. I felt a lot more confident on newer models, and I was able to tackle black diamond DH trails quite easily.

[@Mi4ok1987]

what size of wheels do you have ?

[@core-i7413]

@@Mi4ok1987 I use 29" wheels.

[@fatdadracing]

I just bought the new Specialized Epic Evo and love it. I don’t spend my days charging rock gardens or launching big drops. 120 mm+ 29 inch wheels+ dropper post = BIG 😀

[@letour32rr]

I have a 2011 Specialized Epic Comp 29er. Changed it from 3x10 to 1x11, added a dropper post, and stiffer wheels w/ wider rims and the bike is completely transformed. Not sketchy at all and still runs quick. They’ll pry this bike from my cold dead body.

[@zguitar71]

Nice video! It is reassuring to see the limitations on a “long travel” xc bike. I recently upgraded from an ‘02 Stump jumper HT 26er to a ‘21 Epic Evo. I was amazed at the Terrain I started to ride compared to the HT bike but found the trail bikers killing me in the nasty stuff. When it was time to go back up hill I would catch them, pass them then wait for them at the top, xc bikes are the best in that world. I can ride what they ride but I’m slower and more cautious for sure. My main goal for the bike is long rides deep into the woods. I live in Missoula MT and there are some incredible areas but they require a 30-40+ mile ride to get in and out. The “down country” bike is in its element on those rides. Now we are getting into our winter and the back country is getting too snowy for a bike. This brings me to the $500 question. I would spend the money on winter gear, better tires with deep soft tread, GOOD GLOVES!, some goretex or equivalent upper and lower wear and some warmer shoes. I can ride year round on some of the lower trails but you definitely need the traction (the xc tires are out of their element for sure) and body gear. I use my XC bike to commute as well. My idea is to maintain my health, not burn gas and pollute the air I breath and have fun at the same time. The bike was a mid-life purchase for turning 50 and sticking it out on the HT 26er for 18 years. Thanks again for the video!

[@dirtrider6198]

I couldn't agree more. I ride a Canyon Lux. I'm always riding past others who are often pushing their bikes uphill. We may be a bit slower on tech downhill stuff. But we still get round all but the gnarliest trails , we ride further and quicker overall too. If I want to hit the big stuff I get my trail/enduro long travel bike out and know I'll be grinding uphill for a quick adrenaline fix on the way back down. When there is less tech and more flat a XC bike cannot be beaten... except by a e-bike and even then I've passed one or two.

[@Hoeks21]

As a beginner to mountain biking I bought the only bike available during COVID... a Canyon Neuron. It is more XC than trail. Road a Stumpjumper Expert S6 (I'm 6'5) recently and was blown away about how much more fun and easier it was to ride. Selling the Neuron and getting the Stumpy.

[@timking2822]

You are so right! I live in a mountainous region with lot's of climbing, downhills, and flats. 4in of travel with the light weight of a full-suspension xc bike is perfect for me.

[@kalehickman5682]

I would spend the money on my next xc race bike, hopefully a Scott spark;). Just made my provincial team so I’m looking to get a more xc focused bike🤟🏻

[@questionyourself718]

i love how hes talking about xc bikes the whooe video and how they are light and nimble and more fun on some trails than a trailbike. and then as an example he shows the scott spark wich is in fact a trailbike :D

[@kalehickman5682]

@@questionyourself718 yeah that is pretty funny, Scott does have the Spark RC too which would only 100mm front and rear. Do you race xc?

[@questionyourself718]

@@kalehickman5682 no i dont. Just ride some trails on the weekends. Atm im rocking a normal giant talon hardtail since i moved from my old town and sold my dh bike. But im looking at trail bikes atm to go shred a bit again.

[@kalehickman5682]

@@questionyourself718 Nice I ride a hard tail too👍🏻

[@kickerconlin9542]

I got back into the sport 3 years ago after a 10 year hiatus. Absolutely love my 130mm 29er. I've moved to Cumberland, BC this year and at times I feel a wee bit under-biked. I'd love to spend $500 on some 4-pot Shimano brakes and new rotors! 🤙

[@benrichardson7344]

I'm just getting into repairing my bike, and this would give me the money to replace my worn out cranks, bottom bracket, and brakes and the tools I need to do it all!

[@erlendsteren9466]

I like this video a lot! Back in year 2000 I bought the Rocky Mountain Element Race maybe it has 100mm full suspension.Wednesday I will buy a 2019 model xc bike with 100mm full suspension. These bikes doesnt go on difficult trail, because I am not skilled and daring. Their task is going everywhere and more roads than trails. Comfort and safety . I dont like to get scared.

[@AKandPetunia]

A lot of us got our start on XC machines, I used to SMASH my old stumpy hardtail down lines an XC bike probably had no business being. And while my enduro bike is pretty much my go to these days, I started riding a modern XC machine and I truly had forgotten how much fun they are!

[@gatsmot888]

Got a Spark 5 months ago. XC/down country is about the whole mountain experience ;) did my first big ride a few days ago 1500m descending 500 climbing, bike handles everything.

[@kbd13-n9c]

I have a pretty XC oriented hard tail. Looking at a trail bike to suit the majority of my needs...now if I could only find one in stock. Looking at the Nukeproof Reactor. Again, if it was ever in stock lol. If I had $500 to throw around, it would probably be on some new bars (one up), seat, grips, (Ergon-the newer oil slick stuff). Maybe some kit. I just ordered new shoes and pedals.

[@bananasstuff3344]

Yeah for sure, reactors are sick. If you're looking at that kind of price I'd also look at the vitus sentier.

[@SeanAnthony2025]

I have a Scott Spark 740 with 120/120. It handles 100% of the stuff I ride. My genius can handle anything that feels sketchy or if I take a day trip to a mountain but I barely use it. The Spark can still do it all really and it's fast...real fast

[@EpicMTB]

Thank you for this! I’ve always been looking at the more DH or jump bikes but these look pretty cool as well!

[@markalvis2037]

I would invest in a second wheel set to have the option to run my 27.5+ as a 29er.

[@davemoore843]

Bit late to the party but, I jumped on the gravel bike bandwagon bike and did a few events over a few years. Bought a lower priced XC bike and wow it is a revelation how fast and versatile it is on single track, gravel, and forest trails in the UK compared to my gravel bike. The gravel bike picks up on the flatter packed stuff but there is not much in it. But when it is a bit lumpy the XC bike cruises over the top and I find it more controllable in loose and muddy stuff.

[@niklashbg]

Went from a All-mountain FS bike to a carbon HT and boy does it rip, especially on the climbs and flowy single track!

[@ThaStonedGardner]

Kinda surprised me you said you wouldn't do any drops on the xc bike. I used to anything and everything on my old hardtail back when I was young. I just bought a brand new hardtail for the first time in years. I'm older now and riddled from combat and surgeries; gonna take me a good while to be doing gnarly stuff again. I'll get there. Been practicing on my big box store bike, it was definitely time for an upgrade. I could definitely still use $500 worth of upgrades! I know you already picked a winner, but still, who doesn't need an upgrade? Frog pedals by Speedplay or one of their other pedals if those aren't available anywhere, maybe a dropper post. Not sure what I need on the new bike yet aside from clipless pedals. Won't get to ride it for two more days. Great video!

[@CeDubble]

My XC bike is super sick... I’ve tweaked it to the point where I could never walk into a bike shop and get anything close the thing I’ve whipped up 😲

[@stuartlawrence753]

Another excellent production Paul, watching this back-to-back with the Trail and Enduro bike episodes, its often clear we have 'too much bike' XC isnt quite my cup of tea, to be honest am happy crawling up the fire service road and blatting down a trail, but you illustrate the place of an XC bike very well and are far better taking one around Squamish trails than I ever would How is Competitive Cyclist for import duties/charges to Canada? They have a great selection to choose from 2021 is about protection for me, time for Leatt AirFlex Stealth Body Protector (Or POC, Dainese) and an IXS Trigger Full Face Helmet. Thats $500 well spent - bodies are priceless!

[@scottwilson2337]

I'm rideing a 2021 orbea oiz 120mm travel I got this bike for xc loops and now I've been sending it over 25foot doubles and love it .its how you ride not what you ride

[@Projectnortheast]

Down country is the new hotness... I find myself reaching for my Slacked out short travel bike more and more as bikes just keep getting more and more capable. It's great!

[@paulhusby8344]

Finally. This is what I've been waiting for. I am trying to make an informed buying decision between carbon XC and its equally priced carbon trail bike. The few XC related videos out there seem to be mostly about the $10,000 plus sub genre. This video speaks to what XC bikes are actually like to ride and who would benefit from one the most, rather than just showing some guy flying on his trail bike. Thank you. This video confirmed my XC decision.

[@finlaymceachan6460]

I would spend it on winter mtb trousers because all I have at the moment is shorts in scottish winter!

[@calebmayer8439]

I’d get some new wheels and a repair stand so I can finally start working on my bike, something I’ve wanted to be able to do for a long time!

[@owenchuarbx]

Great to have a video like this, especially I'm an road cyclist looking to transition into XC Hardtail. The ethos of XC and Road (especially aero-road and climbing) are pretty similar imo.

[@diviscadilek1764]

Get the XC bike, it's a whole different feeling than riding your road bike. It's much more engaging, and safer.

[@nagylevi3827]

@@diviscadilek1764 that is quite interesting, the utter opposite of my experience. Since I've only been doing XC for six months or so, I cannot disagree with you or anyone with experience but, to me, road cycling is actually far less dangerous. On the tarmac I feel both faster and safer while on the path I feel like I'm playing with my life for no good reason. It might be more engaging but it comes at greater risk and, ultimately, a greater cost.

[@diviscadilek1764]

@@nagylevi3827 would you rather slam into a tree at 40kph and break a collar bone 10 times, or get rear-ended by a car at 90kph once? Because that's the difference in safety between mtb and road. And another thing, while you feel in danger while riding mtb right now, it's probably because you don't know what you're doing, and aren't really in control. Work on your skills, watch "How to bike with Ben Cathro" on youtube, and you'll feel in control. As a result of your newly gained skills, that fear will transform into confidence and fun.

[@nagylevi3827]

@@diviscadilek1764 that is a valid point and I will continue to practice. My biggest issue right now is that I don't yet know the trails I ride on very well. I can handle the bike well enough for a beginner but it's the unknown trails that intimidate me. Just recently I encountered a blind jump at 20+ mph that took the "paint" off my entire left side, shorts and shirt included. That's the kind of unpleasant surprise I've never had on my road bike.

[@justincrone9404]

I would invest in some lights to tryout some night riding, an oval chain ring to help with the technical climbs, and supplies to convert my bike to tubeless! As a person who’s two favorite hobbies are mountain biking and golfing I’ve been really enjoying all of your recent videos!

[@RobS123]

I am in the market for my first new mountain bike in 30 years, though I really haven't ridden regularly in 20. Wasn't sure if I needed a XC or Trail type as I have ridden both types of trails, as well as a bit of commuting on the road. I wish I could afford one for each. I'd love one for tighter, more technical downhills, but don't ride those often and always had to push my old bike up hills as I'm pushing 60 now and need to get back in shape. Most of my riding will be road, gravel roads/fire roads, easy trails and some rooty, rocky trails, in that order. Your video really helped me sharpen my focus as to what type of bike to cover all my bases the best. I think the extra weight of a Trail bike and more aggressive geometry downsides on cruising on roads is more of a disadvantage to my overall riding style than the less capable geometry and fork travel of a XC bike would be on the occasional gnarly, tight downhill trails I might ride with my son. Fantastic video work, scenery, shot setups, everything! The trails through the logging area looked like something I used to ride on an enduro motorcycle back in my younger years, brought back great memories. I was happy to see you were able to tackle what looked like the absolute maximum downhill challenges I could ever face on a XC bike, and feel like I will be more than fine on that type of frame. Well done!

[@erikgriffioen6230]

Had a xc bike. Found it was just too fragile. Have aTrek Stache 5 hardtail. Great bike - small wheelbase and short chainstay. 29 plus wheels are great for trail riding. Only complaint are the brakes are too weak - may change to 4 pot, just stupid expensive

[@alicangul2603]

The reason gravel bikes are getting more popular nowadays is because MTB for an outsider, is only about doing BMX tricks in a forest, "sending it" across jumps, doing huge drops, being a Redbull Rampage wannabe. The reality is, ordinary people don't want to take these risks, they just want to ride bikes in the nature. XC is the most popular kind riding around the world and XC bikes are the most popular MTBs, you just need to look beyond your bikepark marketing bubble to see it.

[@theodoreroberts8524]

As someone who came from road/triathlon, and just wanted to buy a MTB as soon as I could afford it, and aluminium hardtail XC bike was the obvious choice. I've used it for alpine bike park laps and used it to tour the UKs bridleways and canal tow paths. A brilliant all-rounder that at the end of the day is plenty of bike for what most people do. Only on proper black downhill trails have I found myself feeling underbiked, but I was probably underskilled on them too anyway!

[@chesapeakeaerialphotollc5954]

Two weeks ago yesterday I crashed when my front wheel washed out from under me fracturing two ribs in the process (and keeping me off the bike for who knows how long). If I were to win I would put my $500 into making sure this never happens again. I would start with replacing/upgrading the front tire. I would also look into replacing my helmet as it probably took a good shot when I landed and some better protection on my hands as I sliced through my glove requiring stitches. After much self analysis, I think the front tire might make the biggest factor but anything else that can help prevent the dreaded washout (along with practice and training) would be on the list. Anything left over would go into upgrading my lightweight XC/trail hard tail which I so enjoy.

[@garrettdunnam6921]

Winning this would all go to my daughters. Both are xc racers and just general fans of mtb. I would upgrade them both to tubeless tires and upgrade oldest brakes to 4 piston brakes since she likes to carry a lot of speed and brakes late.

[@pmiskovic]

I've got a xcaliber hardtail, and I bomb the city with it during the week and hit flow trails on the weekends. Best thing ever.

[@CaliradoKid]

Great information in this video. Definitely helps make the whole XC bike thing easier to understand!

[@peterstim44]

Started racing XC in 1995, by 2000 was only running FS bikes. I'm 60 now, don't race anymore, rarely hit black diamond trails and exclusively run a hardtail. 100mm fork, Specialized Chisel frame, 2.400" tires, 750mm bars with 25mm of rise, no dropper post and weights 24lbs. I like the simplicity, not out to be the fastest guy but in smooth flo'y single track it is nimble, fun to ride and like passing the youngsters on their 150mm travel bikes. If I was still riding technical downhill would have a bigger hit bike.

[@spencercathey5968]

Love the video! XC bikes are the best machines ever created. I would spend the money on a sick Syncros Fraser bar for my spark rc to clean up my cockpit and loose some weight for extra speed and fun.

[@LRF49]

I would buy the following: *Helmet *MTB shorts *Gloves *Knee Pads *New Tires

[@hokiejosh08]

Just bought my wife a new Canyon Neuron 5 - her first full suspension bike - so given the chance I’d get her some drivetrain upgrades and personalizations in the pedals, grips, and saddle ... and maybe a new PNW dropper for my Trek Remedy ;)

[@TheCrashingDad]

makes me wanna take the smuggler out more often, and practice clipless...

[@DeepDiveExplorer]

I would beef up my XC bike with some better brakes for sure. I've upgraded my XC bike all around. I think the only thing I have not messed with is my brakes which are Tektro, handlebars and grips. Great video.

[@siebelspaethjens]

Looks great to ride an XC bike. I don’t have the money and space to own more bikes. I currently have a road bike for training and a bionic on super shuttle enduro bike for trail riding and bike park. I’ve also used it for a week long bike tour over the alps. Are these good choices? What kind of bike would you recommend if you can only own one MTB? Btw I like your videos and explanations very clear and slow, good to follow and no annoying music.

[@talkmauro]

Agree with all of this. I have a Yeti SB100 and a SB5.5. the SB 100 is an amazing bike for most trails and I ride this bike 90% of the time. It does get a bit sketchy on the very chunky downhill but can do it. The newer geo on the new Transition Spur makes a short travel bike even more desirable. Thanks for the video!

[@nielsrooiman772]

I love jumping tech and i do some hard riding but I hate the fork on my xc bike

[@shredder_64]

I would put it towards getting a better suspension fork for my bike because it is an entry level trail bike with a low end fork.

[@manabiker]

Good Stuff, XC bikes with 80 to 100 mm of travel are becoming a thing of the past, I noticed you don't call these new beefier bikes Down Country, but XC bikes.. I rode Specialized Epic's for years, now on a Epic EVO, this thing is faster, more fun, more forgiving, better in every way, I've lightened it up to 22 pounds, so it is a XC/Down Country bike,, call it what you want, its a blast to ride, I like the name Down Country it doesn't carry the negativity some people put on XC bikes.. I still ride my 1983 Stumpjumper, its a blast to ride too.. we have come along way, these Down Country bikes are not XC bikes they are way more fun to ride, with both bike being the same weight the DC bike is a winner...Happy Trails..

[@thesecondshambler]

Hilarious seeing this! I just bought a Spark RC Team to go with my Capra 29. The Spark RC is amazingly capable, fast on flow and can handle reasonable table top and small gaps (assuming you can do it right - not as much room for error). You can go faster on flow but need to slow down on gnar. Dropper is essential. Two things to add - you must get carbon! The stiffness makes riding these so much better - there really is a difference. The other is that being "overbiked" hugely helps progression, you can learn and take much more risks on that with a much bigger safety buffer and that transfers to your skill on the XC bike. I honestly don't get why modern trail bikes exist. Enduro bikes are just so capable and easy to pedal now you may as well be able to be lift assist ready and still have something that can ride like a trail bike (get narrower bars). In saying that, the Capra has saved me a few times - better not get into those situations on the Spark!

[@obxpalma]

What would I get to compliment my XC Trek I got this past summer? A Garmin 830 to find more trails! Thanks for making this video!

[@taylorklein2378]

I would 180% go with the 4 piston brakes, one-up bars and new tires!! Good call Paul!

[@thomasgendron1446]

I would use it to get some new flat pedal shoes and I would get my beginner friend everything he needs to be comfortable riding his bike.

[@lddufresne]

I'm curious to see what the new Spark will look like.

[@simonshawmusic]

I ripped my derailleur off yesterday and did a whole bunch of damage to the backend of my bike..... i'd use the money to replace parts and get the bike running again...

[@amandap2889]

I would get a full face helmet so im safer some new winter gloves so my hands dont freeze and buy some 5 ten shoes and the rest i would save for a marzhoci bomber

[@tievox_gsr]

I’m going to buy a new bike in the spring as I am outgrowing my current bike, I would buy pedals, new grips, tubeless sealant, tubeless valve stems and a front mud guard

[@andrewslipperbrown3809]

I would use the cash to get a bunch of spare parts / tools for my new rig! I’m one season in and I desperately need new break pads, some master links, spare chain, tube, need some WPL lubes, cleaners and sealant ;), spare tyres all that jazz. That would probably take up a good chunk of change so I’d splurge and maybe get some New gloves and jerseys. Thanks!

[@andy.bailey]

If I won, I would get a set of 4 piston shimano brakes to replace my older brakes which have served me well, but now leak fluid, and also purchase a 180mm one up dropper post to help with my continued development of my downhill skills. I may be in my 50s, but I'm not too old to stop progressing!

[@thealliest]

I'd definitely get a dropper post and some consumables - tubes, tires, etc. Not sure what else.

[@anguslogue3778]

IMHO the best xc bike is a 130mm trailbike with xc wheels. hammer through descents and it's hardly a burden getting up the climbs.

[@mister_ray]

Unless one shuttles, an XC bike makes a ton of sense because over half the time is spent climbing. The thought of lugging a 30+ lb bike up a 20 min climb sounds miserable. WC races are still won on the climbs. Funny I ride my XC bike on trails.

[@jellyjamboy696]

I know this is later giving me less chance but I agree I would like to get the 4 pot brakes and some new wheels because my back wheel wobbles what ain’t ideal 😂

[@HeintjeMTB]

If you want a challenge, why not go for an agressieve hardtail? They are lighter then trail / enduro bikes. But not so light they become expensive like XC bikes.

[@kollinhodges1465]

I’m building a toolbox and I’d love to get some new shiny bits for it from competitive cyclist! Abbey tools chain whips and Crombie. Sliding t handle hex keys. Then I’d pay for part of an evoc travel bag with the remainder for my dream trip to whistler next year!

[@SourCrouter]

I'd probably use it to upgrade my only bike which is my trail bike. Maybe some carbon bars and ratchet upgrade for my dtswiss hub.

[@RyanRKJ]

I look at World Cup XC races, and that does not look at my riding at all. Those jumps and drops are getting gnarly. I guess current marketing would label my riding as "touring," "adventure," or "gravel." I don't carry heavy bags, want a crappy Sram SX drivetrain, or want to ride over rocks and roots with 40mm tires.... I currently have a gravel bike, and am looking to add another bike for trail riding, and am currently looking at hardtails with "old school" geometry, and rigid MTBs that are now being marketed as "gravel."

[@brifrancis234]

I would use the money to change out my poor worn out tires and change my dropper post. It didn't like my last crash and has gone on strike. But I loved your footage and this perspective. I have been an enduro rider for many years, but have recently tried out some much longer rides and even some multi-day rides. This has made me think that my next bike just might be something more XC oriented.

[@shwndh]

The most fun bike is in between a XC bike and a trail bike. 120 to 130mm of travel is all you need for most trails. That Spark is a great modern example - good climbers, fast and nimble but can handle rough descents with confidence. You just gain a little weight but if your not racing, a sub 30lb FS mountain bike with excellent handling ain’t bad. They call them “down country” now but that’s what I’ve always ridden since the early 2000’s. $500 should go towards a 2nd wheelset. That will transform the bike from trail to racer.

[@lukasbormann4830]

Id spend it on a dropper for my dad's xc bike , new flat pedals for my dj bike and cleaning supplies and maybe a multool if there's money left

[@sbbeowulf8296]

When I got my first bike which was a low spec full suspension with 130 front and 125 rear I would bottom out on anything because of my riding style now I have a 160 enduro bike which may not be what I should have but I feel soo much more comfortable for my style

[@_petar]

IMHO people should focus more on their skills and having fun, expensive bike or bigger travel wont necessarily make you a better rider or be more fun, remember the old days when we were young and free what bikes we had - well yes one speed bicycles but was it fun?

[@SeanAnthony2025]

I'd spend it on an external dropper for my 2016 Spark that didn't come with one, a OneUp oval chainring for my son's new bike because I love mine and if there's anything left a new lid. There's not much brain to protect but I figured I probably should have a better one anyway. It's been a few years 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@S.Minkii]

If I was the most lucky person in your big audience, first of all, I would be amazed to be the winner, and I'd need a few hours to scream around the neighborhood before I could calm down. Then, I'd definitely spend my money on the new Oneup dropper post and get rid of my pesky, unreliable reverb, get some new MTB specific shoes so i stick to the pedals like glue, a new 11 speed XT derailleur because mine is still running strong but is beat up and could use a refresh, a new chain and cassette would be awesome too! And if i have some money left over I'd probably get some warmer gloves so my fingies don't get cold riding in the winter! Maybe I'd get some michelin enduro tires and new pads for my shimano brakes instead of something since my old tires are way past the replacement point :)

[@youngstadan4999]

Been looking at sparks recentley , the 130 mil travel ones , very clean looking bike with the hidden shock. Its on my final list

[@jamesglezos]

I would get the Smith Mainline because I have been wanting to get a lighter full face for a while now. I also would get some new kneepads because my current ones are ripping. And of course some Oneup pedals.

[@TrailBikerTerryTBT]

I have a hardtail carbon 720 Scott Scale that i don't use much now and nearly always ride my Lapierre Zesty Carbon 150mm F/S trail bike on blues, reds, blacks and off piste trails. It weighs 29lbs where the Scott weighs 23lbs so maybe i should start riding my hardtail again more. Especially in the winter here in the UK and get back to some long xc riding. You have inspired me to get the hardtail out of the shed and ride QECP, Surrey and Swinley on my hardtail for a change cheers Terry 👍🤘