9-12-08 // Tested: Specialized Stumpjumper FSR PRO
When it comes to mountain bikes, first impressions are everything--most of the time. The Specialized Stumpjumper might be the exception to that rule.

9-11-08 // Tested: '08 Gary Fisher Procaliber
Fisher’s 5-inch travel HiFi was the first to incorporate the company’s Genesis 2 geometry, which uses a custom fork-crown offset to improve slow-speed handling without compromising high-speed performance. Now, Fisher has introduced a 3.5-inch-travel race version called the Procaliber.

8-28-08 // Tested: Santa Cruz Bullit
The Bullit’s 67.5-degree headtube angle provided predictable handling and jived with the bike’s supple suspension to inspire confidence and control on any trail. The addition of the floating brake arm is a must-have option for anyone considering this bike.

8-27-08 // Tested: Maverick Durance Monolink
Endurance racers, seekers of epic trails, and anyone else who likes long rides on buttery suspension should check out the Durance. It’s one of the most efficient bikes available and comes in a stiff, lightweight, hassle-free package.

7-14-08 // Tested: Santa Cruz Blur LT
This Blur LT performed better than expected and exceeded its predecessor. It absorbs big hits well and is a stiff, predictable climber. As for those creaky links? After three months of abuse, we have yet to hear a peep out of it.

7-14-08 // Tested: Commencal Meta 5.5.1
This bike is a ripper on tight singletrack. It’s a sprightly little beast that on occasion felt a bit spindly, especially when pointed through sustained rock gardens. But that might easily be cured with an oversized (now standard) bar/stem.

7-14-08 // Tested: Scott Ransom 30
Scott set out to build a long-travel bike that could take on the biggest, gnarliest descents without requiring a shuttle or chairlift. The bike goes from a super plush 6.5 inches of travel to a firm 3.5 inches - like having three bikes available at the flick of a switch.

7-14-08 // Tested: Yeti 575 XTR
Yeti’s redesigned flagship trail bike is built for versatility. If I’m embarking on a marathon ride or race with body-battering terrain chiseling away at me all day long, I like my chances with the race-bred Yeti 575.

6-06-08 // Tested: ZR Cycles 650b Hardtail Frame
The 650b wheel size (midway between 26- and 29-inch wheels) has been around a long time and is popular with Europe’s touring crowd. The bike tracks well, especially in loose conditions, and the big wheels rolled as well as I could have hoped.

6-06-08 // Tested: '08 Specialized Pitch Pro
At a shade over 30 pounds with 6 inches of rear suspension, the travel-to-weight ratio highlights the mantra of the Specialized all-mountain philosophy: In order to descend farther you must be able to climb higher.

6-06-08 // Tested: Marin Wolf Ridge
The Wolf Ridge seems like a little more than just an all-mountain bike. The 5.5 inches of travel can handle anything you throw at it, and climbs effectively, if not quickly.

6-06-08 // Tested: 2008 GT Sanction 1.0
The fluid lines of the Sanction will appeal to the adventurous trail rider without compromising responsiveness and agility.

6-04-08 // Tested: Niner R.I.P. 9 29-Inch Full Suspension
Though it is not quite an "all-mountain" bike, the Niner R.I.P. 9 delivers solid cross-country performance and ease of climbing that is on par with the best full-suspension designs on the market.

6-4-08 // Tested: 2008 Mongoose Teocali Super
In all my fussing with the Teocali's peripherals, its frame did the job, quietly dishing out nearly 6 inches of rear travel independent of whatever the drivetrain was doing.

6-4-08 // Tested: 2008 Giant Anthem 1
After assembling the $2,600 Anthem 1, I stood back to assess its personality. Let's see, Fox suspension front and rear; Shimano XT drivetrain and brakes; WTB wheels; Michelin Dry2 tires; Maestro suspension. Okay, I got it: humble weekend warrior.