Rocky Mountain ETSX-50

Frame: Easton Custom BI-OVAL RAD aluminum
Suspension: Fox Float R fork, Fox Float RL shock
Wheels: Mavic X223 Disc rims, Shimano Deore Disc hubs, Hutchinson Python 2.0-inch tires
Drivetrain: Shimano LX shifters and front derailleur, Deore XT rear derailleur, Race Face Turbine LP cranks
Brakes: Shimano 556 hydraulic disc
Price (as tested): $2,900
Sizes: 15, 16.5, 18 (tested), 19, 20.5 inches
Weight: 6.13 pounds (frame only)

OUT OF THE BOX

Epic cross country, adventure riding, call it whatever you want, the Rocky Mountain ETSX-50 is what you ride when super lightweight bikes fall apart and long-travel freeride bikes are too heavy. Proven with wins at the Transalp Challenge and World Solo 24-Hour Championships, the ETSX is designed with one thing in mind--long, hard days in the saddle.

Rocky Mountain's patented design uses a projected pivot which is similar to, but not the same as, the new crop of virtual pivots. This neutralizes bobbing, mostly by controlling chain length. It also sends the rear wheel on an almost vertical path during compression, allowing an unchanging wheelbase. A Fox RL rear shock handles the impacts and travel is adjustable from 3.5 to 4 or 4.5 inches via a quick release lever, with a lockout for rock-solid sprint capability.

All three bikes in the ETSX line have the same hand-built frame with Easton's radically shaped Bi-Oval RAD tubing and the main pivots use needle bearings while all others use the cartridge type. The X-50 has a mid-range parts spec with a plush 100mm-travel Fox Float R fork, powerful Shimano 556 hydraulic disc brakes, and XT/LX/Race Face drivetrain. At $2,900, those parts are pretty standard. What sets the X-50 apart is the frame's design, craftsmanship and lack of anything generic. Every part on the bike flashes a name brand, right down to the Shimano 515 pedals and Race Face Prodigy stem/handlebar.