The Unity is on a mixed-wheel setup, which is somewhat out of the norm for a bike in this category, but what category is this bike? While mixed-wheel setups are often associated with enduro and DH, Kona chose it here for pure utility, and when you look at the point they're making, it all makes sense.
Surly describes the new Sorceress as a 'progressive hardtail built for ever-evolving trails and the humanoids who can't get enough of them.' The frame's design emphasizes low standover height and maximized dropper post travel to enhance rider comfort and control across different body types.
The most significant change for the newest Spartan is Devinci's move away from the previous version's high-pivot linkage. This shift aims to enhance pedaling efficiency and reduce weight, addressing key performance aspects for riders tackling rough terrain.
The core idea here isn't gimmickry. It's composure. Specifically, the idea that a calmer, more composed ride creates speed, and that a platform intentionally designed around 32-inch wheels can deliver that in a way a scaled-up 29er simply can't.
Developed for road, gravel, and MTB, Dark Energy is the outcome of four years of dedicated research and development both inside the unique Muc-Off R&D Lab and also working closely with pro-team riders and performance staff. Over that period, more than 90 formulations were created and tested through a structured loop of rigorous screening, consisting of over 8,500 hours of dynamometer and tribometer testing and over 100,000km of real-world testing.
Terra describes the Nera as a bike that can easily crossover from World Cup race tape to the freeride scene. They use high-strength chromoly steel to deliver their desired flex and ride characteristics. Terra also claims excellent vibration damping, and, well, steel is pretty strong, too.
The beauty of chainrings is that they wear out, generally after a few seasons depending on how you ride, which means they are a perfect opportunity to give your old bike some new bling. At $75 a pop, they aren't exactly cheap. But the precision of these machined-in-Colorado 7075 chainrings is on point, and Wheels Mfg has a long record of making solid, long-lasting components.
Rimpact's Chain Damper was launched in 2024, and since then, interest in drivetrain feedback mitigation seems to be gaining momentum. The fact that current World Cup DH ruler Jackson Goldstone uses a similar device on his bike has likely caused quite a spike in interest. On their part, Rimpact supported 15 World Cup DH Teams through last season, and they're expecting that number to grow this year.
With a laundry list of accolades and praise from across the industry, the Madrone Jab is one of the best cases against wireless shifting. With compatibility for all the major drivetrains found on drop bar and flat bar 1x bikes, the Jab is an elegant and robust solution to shifting problems for many riders, and it's now available in even more eye-catching color options.
Propain just announced a brand-new model in its growing range of mountain bikes, the TYEE Trail. With 145mm of rear travel, a 160mm fork, and a modern trail/all-mountain geometry, the TYEE Trail slots in as a capable all-rounder filling a gap in the Propain lineup. With this new platform, the brand offers varying wheel sizes, a choice between carbon and aluminum frames, a starting price of just $3,299, and extensive customization options through its online configurator.
Cascade Components has delivered what could be the best upgrade for the Amflow PL. For $257 USD, Amflow owners can now increase rear travel to 160mm and improve suspension performance, all without tweaking the geometry. With 10mm more rear wheel travel and a more supple rear end, the Amflow PL Link from Cascade Components could make one of the best e-mountain bikes on the market even better.