Race-Fully. The word sounds like muscle oil, blood, sweat and tears. A look at the German low mountain ranges disproves this: many BIKE readers are completely relaxed on these sporty machines.
Enduro bikes (test in issue 2/2003, also available as a PDF download) are still in the minority, as their 13 centimetres of suspension travel remain unused on many home trails. More suspension travel always means more comfort, but occasional racers in particular are happy to do without it. After all, in a cross-country race or marathon, you're happy about every gram saved. So both are good all-rounders - the enduro bikes and the mid-range race fullys. The decision is a question of priorities.
On average, the test bikes weigh 11.5 kilos. They are surprisingly versatile, although none of them have a wide range of adjustable suspension travel: in most cases, a balanced geometry ensures good climbing characteristics and safe downhill riding. For cost reasons, many of the bikes have conventional V-brakes. And there are differences in the suspension.
The bikes in this test:
Cannondale Jekyll 500, Canyon Nerve XC 5, Centurion Backfire LRS 2, Cube AMS Pro, Ghost RT 7500, Hai Bike Hai-Impact, Scott G-Zero Team, Simplon Tonic Comp, Specialized Stumpjumper Comp
