Taking the less is more concept to new heights, we utilize the LES SL Ride SLX/XT Mountain Bike for anything from the local XC race series to pounding out singletrack miles on epic Saturday rides. This efficiency-focused hardtail starts with a carbon frame that’s meticulously stripped down to a staggering 800 grams, meaning less resistance and more speed as we push pace for the finish line, or a new personal best. The 68.5-degree headtube angle provides a balanced performance with enough poise to keep on the gas throughout the day, yet is still slack enough for descending stability.

Pivot specs this build appropriately with a Fox Performance Stepcast 32 fork at 100mm of travel for some extra traction on rock rolls and tricky corners, yet its lightweight feel is still ultra-efficient. The hybrid SLX/XT drivetrain finds the sweet spot between weight and price, and still offers excellent performance with 12 gears and a 10-51t range. 2-piston SLX brakes with 160mm rotors deliver crisp stopping power without any unnecessary weight, and ever-reliable DT Swiss X1900 wheels help keep your race run on pace without the threat of mechanical failure.