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Results have arrived, the 13 best xc-cross-country mountain bikes 2022: singletrack mtb speeders.

To cross the finish line first, beat your own PRs, or just explore local trails, you want a fast cross-country MTB by your side. For those who live to pedal, these are the best XC bikes around.

Written by: Bruce Lin

Published on: Apr 6, 2022

Posted in: Bikes

There exists a special breed of mountain biker, whose M.O. is to cover ground as quickly as possible. These riders crush climbs, blast down flow trails, and sometimes, they even wear lycra (though it’s not required!). Their weapon of choice? The cross-country (a.k.a. XC) bike. These hardtail and full-suspension trail missiles are designed to keep weight low and speed high. For riders who love to pedal hard and explore faraway trails, these are the XC bikes they need to keep on their radar. 

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Best XC-Cross Country Hardtail Mountain Bikes

For minimal weight and maximum efficiency, nothing beats the XC hardtail. The rigid rear end makes sure every watt goes from the pedals into the ground. They are perfect for less technical trails, flow trails, and rides that mix in fire roads, gravel, and even some pavement. These are our favorite fast hardtails.

Specialized Epic HT

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Specialized replaced its long-running Stumpjumper Hardtail with the new Epic Hardtail in 2017, which takes its name from the brand’s ultra-successful full-suspension XC bike. Weight weenies loved it because, at the time of its release, the 895-gram Epic HT frame was the lightest frame Specialized had ever produced, road or mountain. In 2020, it received a geometry update with a slacker head tube to enhance its downhill capabilities. 

Trek Procaliber

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Trek took a traditional hardtail and added extra comfort with its IsoSpeed Decoupler technology to create the Procaliber. First used on the Domane endurance bike, IsoSpeed fully decouples the seat tube from the top tube. A set of bearings and elastomers allow the seat tube to flex independently so it can absorb bumps and vibration without the extra weight of rear suspension. 

Cannondale F-Si / Scalpel HT

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Supposedly, “F-Si” means "For those with Serious Issues.” It’s a joke, but it gets at the core of what the Cannondale F-Si is all about. XC racers obsess over having the most efficient, agile, and lightest race bike possible. They’re the type to ride the F-Si. Its party piece is Cannondale’s distinctive single-sided Lefty Ocho fork . For 2022, the F-Si was replaced by the Scalpel HT, which has dropped seat stays and a slacker head tube angle.

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With the DV9, Ibis wanted to create an affordable cross-country hardtail for racers on a budget. But just because it’s affordable, doesn’t mean it’s a slouch. It has a lightweight carbon frame with clearance for wide 2.6” tires. It’s compatible with 100mm-120mm forks and has a nice, slack 68.5-degree head tube angle that makes it easy to transition from fast and flat short track races to steep and gnarly downhills. 

Specialized Chisel

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Carbon fiber isn’t for everyone, and some just prefer aluminum . You can pretty much think of the Specialized Chisel as a slightly slacker aluminum version of the Epic HT. To increase stiffness and strength while reducing overall weight, the frame uses the same D'aluisio Smartweld technology found on Specialized’s ultra-popular Allez Sprint. The Chisel is perfect for a budget race rig or newer XC riders building their skills. 

Best XC Full-Suspension Mountain Bikes

XC racing has evolved over the last decade, favoring gnarlier courses with technical features and big descents. To keep up, modern full-suspension XC bikes have taken geometry cues from trail and enduro bikes, while maintaining efficient pedaling platforms for uphill assaults. Full-suspension bikes provide more traction and comfort on rough trails. Here are our favorite fast full suspensions.   

BMC Fourstroke 

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In the cross-country world, the BMC Fourstroke is kind of a big deal right now. It’s the bike of choice for multi-time XC world champion Pauline Ferrand-Prévot, and most recently, it was piloted to Olympic Gold by rising star, Tom Pidcock. The Fourstroke is pretty progressive too, with long and slack geometry for tackling downhills, and a sleek BMC RAD integrated dropper post that looks like a standard seatpost. 

Trek Supercaliber

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The Supercaliber is Trek’s lightest, most efficient full-suspension XC bike, and it too recently won Olympic Gold under Jolanda Neff. It uses Trek’s unique IsoStrut suspension system with a frame-integrated shock that provides 60mm of travel. That is just enough to take the edge off bumps and harsh impacts while maintaining hardtail-level weight, stiffness, and efficiency. It’s the perfect compromise for those torn between a hardtail and a full-suspension bike. 

Scott Spark RC

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The Scott Spark is a modern XC legend thanks to the exploits of Nino Schurter, current world champion and one of the greatest XC racers of all time, and his teammates, Kate Courtney and Lars Forster. The Spark received a massive overhaul in 2022, switching to Bold’s hidden-shock suspension with 120mm of travel, but the previous generation 100mm bike is still a threat in any race and perfect for riders not ready to commit to a new school 120mm bike. 

Specialized Epic

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No list of XC bikes would be complete without the Specialized Epic, one of the most popular and successful XC race bikes of all time. The Epic’s suspension uses Specialized’s proprietary Brain damper. An inertia damper keeps the suspension stiff and efficient for pedaling but during impacts, it opens up instantly to allow the suspension to move. This means you never have to think about locking and unlocking the suspension while riding.

Cannondale Scalpel

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Cannondale’s Scalpel has been in production for nearly 20 years and it has always prioritized low weight and efficient rear suspension. Of course, the Scalpel also comes equipped with Cannondale’s trademark single-sided Lefty fork , which really helps it stand out from the crowd. It’s not all for show though. The Lefty’s unique design provides more fore-aft stiffness than traditional forks so you can charge harder into technical terrain. 

Canyon Lux CF

The Canyon Lux is all about efficiency and agility, and its 100mm of travel is stiff and well-controlled so the bike leaps forward whenever you get on the gas. Of the bikes listed here, it has the steepest and most traditional geometry numbers, so it will appeal to riders who want their mountain bike to fit and feel like their road or cyclocross bike. That’s exactly why Mathieu van der Poel chose to ride the Lux to his multiple World Cup victories.  

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The Orbea Oiz (pronounced like “Oy-eth”) was developed in the mountainous Basque Country in Northern Spain. It features a rear shock that is neatly recessed into the top tube to create a sleek silhouette and free up space to fit two water bottles. It also has an impressive race pedigree with several World Cup XC wins and a win at BC Bike Race. For riders who are a bit more downhill-focused, the Oiz TR beefs things up with 120mm of travel front and rear.  

Santa Cruz Blur

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Santa Cruz doesn’t just make downhill-shredding freeride, enduro, and trail bikes. The Blur brings Santa Cruz attitude to the XC world, and it’s sure to appeal to the cool kids on the trail. The first generation Blur used Santa Cruz’s tried and true VPP suspension system. Then in 2022, it got updated to the same single-pivot flex stay system seen on nearly every other bike on this list. Either way, the Blur is a bike that goes fast uphill and shreds back down. 

I’ve had the pleasure of riding most of the bikes on this list. Among my favorites have been the Santa Cruz Blur, Cannondale F-Si, and Orbea Oiz. I’m currently riding a Specialized Epic (albeit the Evo version ) and absolutely loving it. For my future bike, I’m incredibly curious about the Trek Supercaliber. I often find myself wishing I could own both a hardtail and a full suspension, but I don’t have the space or funds. The Supercaliber could be the perfect solution because it manages to split the difference. Ultimately, if your goal is to beat your personal bests out on the trail, you can’t go wrong with any of these bikes. 

Which XC bike would you choose? Or do you think there’s some other XC bike that belongs on this list instead? Let me know in the comments!

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Top 13 Best XC Bikes | The best cross country mountain bikes ridden & reviewed

Wil reviews & rates the best xc mountain bikes.

Over the past five years I’ve been working at Flow, I’ve had the chance to review some of the best cross country mountain bikes on the market. From the strikingly svelte Trek Supercaliber, to the plush ‘n’ progressive Merida Ninety-Six, to the lethally lightweight Specialized Epic World Cup, we’ve tested some absolutely incredible full suspension race machines.

While all of these bikes possess their own unique strengths, quirks and on-trail personalities, together they represent a broader evolution in the sport of XC as a whole. As race courses become more technical and demanding, we’ve seen the widespread adoption of dropper posts, wider handlebars and more powerful brakes, which have helped to elevate rider confidence and control. Frame designers are employing wider chainlines to accept bigger tyres, and head angles are getting slacker to improve high-speed stability. And in the case of bikes like the Orbea Oiz, Scott Spark and Specialized Epic 8, we’re also seeing notable increases in suspension travel to deliver more traction and comfort on rougher trails.

Not only have all these improvements allowed elite athletes to ride faster and harder than ever before, they’ve also made the premise of owning a shorter travel bike all the more appealing for everyday riders. Indeed modern XC bikes are no longer the horribly dainty, overly-twitchy, crash-fests of old. Far from it. A lot of them are actually — dare we say it — fun to ride . In most cases they’re surprisingly versatile too. Many possess the ability to accommodate a longer stroke shock and a bigger fork that allows them to morph into a lightweight trail bike.

That’s all well and good, but out of all the snazzy new models we’ve been testing, which is the best? Here we’ll be taking you through the top 13 full suspension XC bikes we’ve tested, what’s impressed us, what hasn’t, and which gets our pick out of the lot.

Specialized Epic 8

• Highs: Active suspension, clever custom-tuned fork & shock, contemporary geometry, SWAT storage, lightweight & practical frame design
• Lows: S-Works model is eye-poppingly expensive, SRAM Level brakes, no alloy models

The Specialized Epic has been one of the most well-known XC bikes on the circuit since its introduction back in 2002. Built around the distinctive Brain shock, the Epic was infamous for its automated hardtail-like efficiency. The proprietary inertia valve added weight and complexity however, and it also made for quite a demanding ride quality across rough terrain.

For 2024 the Epic has received its most significant evolution yet. Not only has Specialized ditched the Brain entirely, it’s also increased suspension travel to 120mm front and rear. Combined with progressive XC geometry and an adjustable Hi/Lo flip chip, the Epic 8 is a vastly plusher and more capable descender compared to its predecessor.

It’s still quick up the climbs too thanks to its lightweight frame and clever 3-position suspension system. Featuring custom internals courtesy of RockShox, the SID fork and SIDLuxe shock offer open and lock modes, as well as an in-between Magic Middle setting that delivers a satisfyingly pert pedalling platform.

Most of the Epic models come with a TwistLoc remote to switch between the three suspension modes, though the flagship S-Works model does it automatically with the latest RockShox Flight Attendant system . It comes with a stupendously high sticker price to match, but it’s no doubt the performance benchmark when it comes to XC suspension.

There are loads of other neat features to be found on the new Epic 8 including SWAT downtube storage, a hidden steering limiter and guided internal cable routing. See our in-depth Specialized Epic 8 review for the rundown.

• Specialized Epic EVO
• Highs: Impeccable handling, smooth & capable suspension, trail-ready build kit, SWAT storage, mechanic-friendly frame furnishings
• Lows: Fox shock and dropper post issues, high starting price, no alloy models

Alongside the Epic 8 race bike, the Specialized Epic EVO is a brand new XC bike for 2024. It’s built around the same full carbon frame that features SWAT storage, a Hi/Lo geometry flip chip, threaded BB and guided internal cable routing. It also features 120mm of rear travel, but up front you’ll find a bigger 130mm travel Fox 34.

To further boost its trail credentials, Specialized gives the Epic EVO more powerful brakes, grippier tyres, and a longer stroke dropper post. The riding position is also more relaxed thanks to a shorter stem and wider handlebar.

All of that result in quite a different feel out on the trail, with the Epic EVO offering a plusher ride quality and more confidence when charging rough descents. Indeed it is remarkably capable for a 130/120mm travel bike.

The burlier component package does mean the Epic EVO is heavier, and along with the chunkier tyres it doesn’t zip up the climbs quite as effortlessly as the Epic 8 race bike. The lack of a remote lockout will also make it a turnoff to racer types.

If you’re not so serious about racing however, the Epic EVO is undoubtedly one of the most fun and capable XC bikes out there. Check out our Specialized Epic EVO review for more.

Canyon Lux Trail

• Highs: Great suspension, naturally efficient, crisp handling, clever storage solutions, top value spec throughout the range
• Lows: Not the most forgiving ride, cockpit ergonomics could be better, messy cable routing

The Canyon Lux Trail first arrived in 2021 as a slightly longer travel offshoot of the Lux race bike. To keep the costs down the two models shared an identical rear end, with the Lux Trail adopting a unique front triangle that was notably slacker and longer. Along with a 120mm travel fork and a more practical build kit, it was a clever and relatively inexpensive way to add another model to the lineup. Still, it wasn’t exactly perfect.

Addressing our previous criticisms, Canyon totally overhauled the Lux Trail for 2024. Featuring a brand new carbon frame, the Lux Trail is equipped with a 120mm travel fork and 115mm of rear travel. It’s also the first Canyon mountain bike to feature internal storage. The hatch is well executed too, and we like the optional multi-tool that sits in a dedicated mount underneath the top tube.

The practical approach extends to the threaded BB and tool-free thru-axles, but not quite to the cable routing. The main control lines pass through the headset, making for quite the nest in front of the bars. Given how efficient the Lux Trail is, we reckon Canyon could have easily ditched the remote lockout in favour of a tidier setup and better ergonomics for the dropper post lever.

Those complaints aside, the Lux Trail is a fantastic performer out on the trail. It is heavier than the Lux World Cup, but it’s still terrifically agile through twisty singletrack. You can also push it a lot harder on the descents thanks to the smoother suspension and long-stroke dropper post, making it a load of fun to ride on technical terrain. See the full story in our Canyon Lux Trail review .

Cervelo ZFS-5

• Highs: Beautifully smooth ride quality, plush & poppy suspension, lightweight but practical frame, superb spec package
• Lows: 100mm XC builds don’t come with a dropper post, headset cable routing may be a turn off for some

Although the ZFS-5 is Cervelo’s first ever full suspension mountain bike, the roadie brand was able to get a solid head start by drawing on the valuable experience of its sister brand Santa Cruz.

Indeed the ZFS-5 shares much of its DNA with the Blur, though it’s worth noting that they are two separate bikes. The ZFS-5 has been built around its own unique carbon frame that’s claimed to be one of the lightest on the market at just 1,718g. It also features different geometry with our test bike sporting a devilishly slack 66.6° head angle.

You can get the ZFS-5 in two distinct flavours. There’s a flat-out XC race bike with 100/100mm of travel, and a more versatile trail bike with 120/115mm of travel. The frame is identical between the two, with a longer-stroke shock and fork switching up the vibe.

Even in its longer travel guise, we found the ZFS-5 to offer neutral pedalling performance that responds surprisingly well to hard efforts. The lithe chassis makes it a pleasure to climb with, and the modern geometry means it’s terrifically well-balanced across a variety of trail types. Add in the excellent build package along with the plush and poppy suspension, and you’ve got an absolutely ripping XC bike that’s a whole lot of fun to ride. See our Cervelo ZFS-5 review for everything you need to know.

Trek Supercaliber

• Highs: Striking frame design, powerful pedalling performance, responsive handling, contemporary build kit
• Lows: Short travel is less forgiving on really rough trails, shock servicing and tuning are more involved, expensive

Easily one of the most striking XC bikes on the market, the Trek Supercaliber has been completely redesigned for 2023. Trek has introduced two new frames that feature updated geometry, an increase in travel and a totally new IsoStrut shock that’s now manufactured by RockShox instead of Fox.

You’ll still find the distinctive IsoStrut suspension platform out back, though rear travel has been increased to 80mm to provide more grip and comfort. Despite this, the Supercaliber retains its incredible pedalling efficiency thanks to a higher main pivot that boosts anti-squat. There’s a dual remote lockout at the handlebar, but it’s really not necessary for the rear suspension since it’s so responsive under power.

Descending performance has also improved due to a slacker 67.5° head angle, a longer wheelbase, and a 110mm travel fork. Almost every Supercaliber model comes standard with 2.4in tyres and a dropper post too, which is fantastic to see.

It’s still not the most forgiving bike on really rough terrain, especially compared to 120mm travel bikes like the Spark and Oiz. I also wasn’t impressed with the cockpit ergonomics on our SLR 9.8 GX AXS test bike, and the nest of cables in front of the handlebar is messy compared to the much cleaner Epic World Cup.

There’s no denying its razor-sharp handling and explosive pedalling performance however, which successfully splits the difference between a hardtail and traditional full suspension bike. Check out our Trek Supercaliber review for the full story.

• Highs: Lightweight and elegant frame design, superb geometry, plush and on-the-fly adaptable suspension, lots of spec options including alloy models
• Lows: Headset cable routing, not the quietest bike, limited clearance for 2nd bottle

Whereas the previous Orbea Oiz was available in both 100mm and 120mm travel variants that utilised the same chassis, the latest Oiz is now purpose-built around 120mm of travel front and rear. This commitment has allowed Orbea to optimise the geometry and bring it right up to date. Along with the increased travel and the fact that it comes with 2.4in tyres and a dropper post as standard, the Oiz is one of the most fun and capable XC bikes out there.

It’s still incredibly light, with the top-end OMX carbon frame claimed to weigh just 1,750g including the shock. It’s also impressively quick up the climbs thanks to its efficient pedalling manners and remote-activated suspension.

The Squidlock remote isn’t perfect, though it is plenty functional with the Medium suspension mode firming up the rear shock’s damping while leaving the fork entirely open. This helps to steepen the angles and lift the BB, providing a terrific technical climbing mode that maintains front-end compliance over rocky and rooty terrain. It also sharpens up the steering when you’re speeding along flowy singletrack. If you’re keen to know how it rides, see our full Orbea Oiz review .

Specialized Epic World Cup

• Highs: Exceptional automated efficiency, superb geometry, tuneable shock, clutter-free cockpit, very lightweight, dual bottle ready
• Lows: Ride can be unrelenting when not at race pace, Brain fork is jarring on rocky terrain, proprietary shock is yet to be proven in the mass market, expensive

A brand new model for 2023, the Specialized Epic World Cup is the result of a 4-year project to build the ultimate XC race bike that combines the responsiveness of a hardtail, with the big-hit control of a conventional full suspension bike.

To achieve this lofty goal, Specialized ditched the Brain damper and collaborated with RockShox to build a new SIDLuxe WCID shock. Instead of an inertia valve, the new shock utilises a clever air spring design that allows you to tune the negative chamber independently of the positive spring. The result is a tuneable package that delivers hardtail-like acceleration in its firmest setting.

The proprietary shock delivers just 75mm of rear travel, and that’s paired to a custom RockShox SID SL fork with 110mm of travel and an updated Brain damper. It’s all built around a new carbon fibre chassis that is claimed to be one of the lightest on the market.

While rear travel is conservative, geometry is very progressive with a 66.5° head angle and a hefty 58mm BB drop. It all adds up to create a responsive and highly involving bike to ride, though one that prefers to be pushed hard and fast to get the most out of it. With this in mind, riders who prefer a plusher ride quality and are after a more versatile XC bike will be better off looking at the longer travel Epic EVO .

But if you value outright efficiency, the Epic World Cup is one of the best on the market while offering a stupendously clean cockpit with no lockout to worry about. Get the full story in our Specialized Epic World Cup review .

Canyon Lux World Cup

• Highs: Organic pedal efficiency, precise handling, high-tech bearings, dual bottle ready, very appealing spec for the money
• Lows: Racy suspension feel won’t suit all tastes, headset cable routing, fork feels under-gunned, no dropper

Sitting alongside the slightly longer travel Lux Trail , the Canyon Lux World Cup is the purebred race machine of the two. It’s equipped with 100mm of travel and a new carbon frame that Canyon claims to be one of the lightest on the market.

The updated geometry has paid dividends on the trail, with the Lux World Cup offering improved balance and stability at speed over its predecessor. It ties in well with its race-tuned chassis and suspension, which provides outstanding pedal efficiency and responsive handling through tight singletrack.

Given how hard you can push the stout frame, the Fox 32 SC does feel somewhat under-gunned up front. We’re also surprised that Canyon doesn’t offer any of the Lux World Cup models with a dropper post. Combined with the firm suspension tune, the Lux World Cup isn’t as plush or as confidence-inspiring on rough terrain as more contemporary bikes like the Scott Spark or Merida Ninety-Six.

With that in mind, those chasing more of an XC all-rounder should check out the Lux Trail instead. If you’re after a lightweight, agile and deadly efficient race bike though, you’d be hard pressed to find anything that packs in the same level of features and spec for the money as this. See our Canyon Lux World Cup review for the lowdown on the stock bike, though if you’re curious about what’s possible with a few spec changes, check out my long-term review for a deep-dive into the true capabilities of the Lux World Cup.

Scott Spark RC

• Highs: Progressive geometry, plush and traction-rich suspension, versatile chassis, split-personality TwinLoc system
• Lows: Reliant on remote for pedalling efficiency, headset cable routing adds maintenance frustration, noisy frame

The latest Scott Spark made quite the impression when it launched in 2021. Replacing what was perhaps the most successful XC bike on the market, the 4th generation Spark dropped jaws thanks to its high-tech carbon frame and cleverly hidden rear shock. Featuring an updated TwinLoc remote, the Spark also introduced envelope-pushing geometry with adjustable headset cups. It also pushed the envelope with its suspension, extending travel out to 120mm at both ends — a genre-defining statement for World Cup-level XC race bikes.

Despite all the advancements, the Spark still relies on a handlebar remote and two cables to control its suspension. You’ll need to use the remote a lot to get the most out of it too, since the pedalling performance is deliberately soft and drivetrain-neutral in the full travel ‘Descend’ position. If you’re not a fan of remotes, then the Spark won’t be the bike for you.

If you’re happy to flip levers though, and you can live with the internal cable routing through the headset, the Spark offers adaptable performance that makes it both a brilliant technical climber and a fun descender. The plush suspension and low-hanging BB allows you to rip through turns, providing traction and comfort in situations that can scare lesser bikes. It really is impressive, and it all adds up to create one of the most capable XC race bikes we’ve ever tested. Get the full story in our Scott Spark RC review .

Giant Anthem

• Highs: Very lightweight frame, fantastic all-round handling, updated Live Valve is brilliant for XC racing, near-faultless contemporary build kit, nice cable routing
• Lows: Our original test frame cracked, Live Valve adds complexity and clutter, single bottle only

As one of the most popular and long-standing XC bikes on the market, the Giant Anthem underwent a wholesale redesign back in 2022. Moving away from its classic Maestro suspension design in favour of a simpler single pivot arrangement, the new Anthem frame has shed a hefty amount of weight and now stands as one of the lightest options on the market.

While weight has gone down, suspension travel has gone up by 10mm. There’s now 100mm of rear travel that’s paired to 110mm travel Fox 34 SC or RockShox SID. You’ll also find a dropper post and 2.4in Maxxis WT tyres on each model, as well as longer reach measurements and a contemporary 67.5° head angle.

Though most Anthems come with a manual remote lockout, our test bike came fitted with the Fox Live Valve system. The electric wires add clutter to the cockpit, and an external battery pack protrudes from the underside of the top tube. The overall packaging also means the Anthem is one of the few new XC bikes on the market that won’t fit two bottles.

That aside we’ve been mighty impressed with the performance of the Live Valve system, which offers a smoother but still lightning-fast transition between Open and Firm settings. It’s especially advantageous for XC racing where its firm platform delivers stompable efficiency, while giving you access to plush and active suspension on the descents. No need to toggle remote lockouts, just focus on the trail ahead. To hear about our long-term experience, check out our Giant Anthem review for more.

Merida Ninety-Six RC

• Highs: New-school geometry, sensitive suspension performance, excellent spec for the money, dual bottle capability
• Lows: Not the snappiest pedaler, not officially compatible with 2.4in tyres, inconsistent TwistLoc remote, headset cable routing adds servicing complexity

The Merida Ninety-Six arrived in late 2020 with a new carbon frame, an updated suspension design and 100mm of rear travel. It’s available in two variants, with the Ninety-Six RC getting a 100mm travel fork, faster tyres and a more race-focussed build kit.

Unlike many XC bikes, the Ninety-Six features a non-proprietary rear shock, which is appealing from a long-term ownership perspective. Also appealing is the fact that you can get a Ninety-Six for less than $6K, which is almost unheard of these days in the world of carbon full suspension race bikes.

The updated frame has room for two bottles, and features a neat accessory mount underneath the top tube. The otherwise practical approach is somewhat tarnished by the use of internal routing through the headset though, which gives moisture and dirt more opportunities to penetrate the bearings. The TwistLoc remote isn’t the tidiest solution, and the unit on our test bike proved to be frustratingly inconsistent.

Thankfully there have been big improvements to the geometry and suspension performance of the Ninety-Six RC. The simple flex-stay arrangement has dropped weight, while also bolstering lateral rigidity. While hardcore hammerers may find the rear suspension to be a little sensitive under power, there’s excellent traction on offer. The progressive linkage also delivers terrific big-hit control, which in combination with the solid chassis and sorted geometry, sees the Ninety-Six RC inspiring a load of confidence on technical trails at racing speeds. See our Merida Ninety-Six RC review for everything you need to know.

Merida Ninety-Six 8000

• Highs: Poppy & playful ride quality, confidence-inspiring geometry, plush suspension, masses of traction, awesome value for money
• Lows: Aggressive rubber tempers rolling speed, not officially compatible with 2.4in tyres, headset cable routing, remote lockout adds clutter

Alongside the racier Ninety-Six RC, the standard Merida Ninety-Six models actually feature the same full carbon frame with 100mm of rear travel. Where things differ is with the fork, which increases the travel to 120mm and slackens the head angle out to 67° for improved descending stability. Along with burlier tyres and bigger brakes, the Ninety-Six 8000 amps up the capability for riding more technical terrain.

It still incorporates many of the same features that we love about the Ninety-Six RC. The frame will accommodate two bottles for proper long-distance trail rides, and we like the tiny integrated chainguide. It’s great to see Merida including a proper-length dropper post, along with a nifty multi-tool that hides underneath the saddle.

Unfortunately the same downsides also carry over, with the headset cable routing being our main bugbear. And given that Merida has the Ninety-Six RC as the race bike, we reckon it could have done without the remote lockout on the regular Ninety-Six models to help declutter the cockpit.

That doesn’t take away from the fact that the Ninety-Six 8000 is an absolutely belting ride out on the trail. The suspension is supple over small chatter and beautifully supported on bigger wallops, while the aggressive rubber delivers masses of grip on loose terrain. Paired to the stout carbon frame and slackened geometry, this bike is a lightweight pocket rocket that rides well beyond its short travel platform. Read about our experience in the Merida Ninety-Six 8000 review .

Cannondale Scalpel

• Highs: Progressive and traction-rich suspension, smooth pedalling performance, precise and plush Lefty Ocho, dual bottle option, STASH tool system
• Lows: Not the firmest bike under power, proprietary fork and PF30 BB will be a turnoff for some, no dropper post on complete bikes

As the oldest bike in our list, the latest Cannondale Scalpel arrived back in early 2020 just as the world started to implode from the Covid-19 pandemic. Representing the 8th generation of Cannondale’s flagship full suspension race bike, the Scalpel employs a novel approach for its chainstays with a solid leaf-spring section just forward of the dropouts. This allows the suspension to behave like a conventional four-bar linkage, albeit with less weight and improved lateral rigidity.

On the trail the Scalpel is impressively smooth for a 100mm travel XC race bike, delivering excellent traction and uninterrupted pedalling performance over rough terrain. It’s also nicely progressive with plenty of big-hit support, though like the Merida Ninety-Six, the sensitive rear suspension may feel a little soft to some. This can be solved by running less sag for a firmer feel, or simply using the dual lockout for out-of-the-saddle sprinting.

Long distance riders will appreciate the option to carry two bottles, and the integrated STASH tool system is excellent. Less appealing is the PF30 bottom bracket and proprietary A.I drivetrain offset.

The Lefty Ocho is equally divisive, but while the long 55mm rake results in a tight trail figure for insanely quick steering response, its needle-bearing internals and triangular slider means it is exceptionally stout and very sensitive under load. Indeed the difference was abundantly clear when we back-to-back tested it with a conventional Fox fork. Get all the details in our Cannondale Scalpel review .

What else is out there?

Of course our XC bike group test is far from being exhaustive, as there are plenty of other full suspension race bikes on the market that we’re yet to review.

Some notable absentees include the BMC Fourstroke, Mondraker F-Podium and Ibis Exie, though these are admittedly bikes that we don’t see a lot of here in Australia. I did recently get the chance to swing a leg over the new Pivot Mach 4 SL and came away thoroughly impressed, and we’re hoping to tee up a bike locally for a proper long-term test so that I can include it in this list.

We’ll continue to add new options as and when we get our hands on them, and we’d love to hear from you about what bikes you’d like to see us review next. And if there are any brands out there reading this that want us to test out their bike, feel free to get in touch!

What’s the lightest XC bike?

Of course any discussion about XC racing wouldn’t be complete without talking about weight. For those who are hunting grams, you may be wondering; what’s the lightest XC bike out there?

In all of our bike reviews you’ll find a confirmed weight, which is taken with the tyres set up tubeless and with no pedals installed. However, since we’re not always testing bikes at the same price point (we’ll often receive whatever model is available at the time), those weights aren’t really comparable. Also, some XC bikes are still sold without a dropper post, which obviously tilts the weight balance in their favour.

For those reasons, it’s no surprise that the Canyon Lux World Cup CFR Team is the lightest XC bike in this list at 10.22kg. The heaviest bike is the 12.1kg Specialized Epic EVO Pro, though it does feature more travel, a full-length dropper post and much more aggressive tyres.

Frame weights

Where things get a little easier to compare is frame weight. Shown below are the claimed weights from each manufacturer, which is for a frame with the rear shock and basic hardware;

• Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup – 1,712g
• Cervelo ZFS-5 – 1,718g
• Giant Anthem Advanced Pro – 1,735g
• Specialized S-Works Epic 8 – 1,795g
• Orbea Oiz OMX – 1,798g
• Scott Spark HMX SL – 1,870g
• Canyon Lux World Cup CFR – 1,894g
• Cannondale Scalpel Hi-Mod – 1,910g
• Santa Cruz Blur 4 – 1,933g
• Trek Supercaliber SLR – 1,950g
• Specialized Epic EVO – 1,965g
• Merida Ninety-Six RC – 2,064g
• Pivot Mach 4 SL – 2,087g
• Canyon Lux Trail CFR – 2,104g

Coming in at just 1,712g for the S-Works frame and shock, the Specialized Epic World Cup is currently the lightest full suspension frame in our list.

However, since these claimed weights are from the manufacturers it’s important to take them with a pinch of salt. It’s not always clear whether a listed weight is for a painted frame, or even for what size. Often chainstay protectors and cable ports are omitted, and many brands regularly leave out the rear thru-axle.

As for confirmed weights, I have had the opportunity to strip a couple of test bikes down to see how close they were to the manufacturers claims. Listed below are the weights for the frame, shock and key hardware, but no thru-axle;

• Giant Anthem – 1,807g (w/Fox Float DPS)
• Canyon Lux World Cup CFR – 1,941g (w/Fox Float DPS)
• Specialized S-Works Epic 8 – 1,950g (w/RockShox SIDLuxe)

Both the Anthem and Lux World Cup are pretty close to their published figures, though the Epic 8 is 155g heavier than Specialized’s claimed weight. Part of this delta is due to the paint job on our test bike and the downtube protector, which you can read about in more detail in the S-Works Epic 8 review .

So which is the best XC bike out of the lot?

Out of the twelve options in our list, which is the best XC bike we’ve tested? Which bike should you choose?

Honestly, I’ve been impressed with the performance of all of these bikes. And really the answer to the above question is going to come down to what your priorities are.

Most efficient

For those who value maximum efficiency, the Trek Supercaliber and Specialized Epic World Cup are the most efficient XC bikes we’ve tested. These short travel specialists really are a sprinter’s dream, allowing you to forget about remote lockouts so you can concentrate on the trail ahead. I personally prefer the clean cockpit and tuneable shock on the Epic World Cup, though it’s worth noting that set up is simpler on the purposeful Supercaliber, and for many folks its dual-lockout will be a must-have. Regardless, each option does a bang-up job of splitting the difference between a hardtail and a traditional full suspension bike, albeit at a very high price.

Most versatile

If you’re after more comfort and capability, the Canyon Lux Trail, Orbea Oiz, Scott Spark and Specialized Epic EVO are no doubt the most versatile XC bikes in our list. These have all committed to bigger forks and longer travel platforms, and that gives them more grip on technical climbs, along with a smoother and calmer ride on the descents.

The Epic EVO is the burliest and heaviest of the lot, and the fact that it doesn’t have a remote lockout system will be a turn off for the racer crowd. A lighter and faster-rolling set of tyres would be an easy way to inject a bit of extra speed for the occasional event, but overall this is a bike that prioritises fun over racing. For all-round XC ripping, the Epic EVO is my pick of the bunch.

In comparison, the Lux Trail, Oiz and Spark are very much race-ready out of the box thanks to their 3-position remote suspension systems. However, they all come with highly integrated cockpits that I find less appealing from a maintenance perspective. When it comes to outright versatility, it’s the Spark that takes the cake with its adjustable head angle and the ability to fit a longer travel fork.

If it’s bang for buck you’re after, then you’d struggle to look past the Canyon Lux World Cup and Merida Ninety-Six. These are the best value XC bikes we’ve tested, offering great spec options for the money whether you want to source your new bike online through Canyon or buy a Merida from your local bike shop. On the trail these two bikes do ride quite differently, with the Lux World Cup being closer to the Supercaliber and Epic World Cup thanks to its business-like handling and efficient pedalling manners. The Ninety-Six is plusher and more progressive, giving it a fun-filled ride quality that puts it closer to the Oiz and Spark.

Best overall

The three bikes that manage to balance all of those attributes without going over-the-top with integration and proprietary components are the Giant Anthem, Cervelo ZFS-5 and Specialized Epic 8. These are all terrific examples of a modern XC bike, featuring excellent geometry and traction-seeking suspension, while also featuring some of the lightest frames on the market.

You’ll find contemporary build kits and great value for money across the Giant Anthem range, though some folks may be put off by its single bottle capacity and press-fit BB. The Cervelo ZFS-5 is more practical in that regard thanks to its well-considered frame design that’s finished to an incredibly high level. It rides beautifully too, and I particularly enjoyed testing the 120/115mm travel version. Indeed for those who aren’t fussed by remote lockouts, it’s an absolute scorcher.

The best XC bike

Just edging it out for top spot is the brilliant Specialized Epic 8. It’s a better descender with more supportive suspension, a slacker head angle and longer wheelbase, though it still scampers up technical climbs thanks to the custom-tuned RockShox dampers. The nifty SWAT storage is also really well executed and gives the Epic 8 proper all-day appeal.

Very few riders will be able to afford the flagship S-Works model, but if you can then you’ll be getting your hands on the best XC bike that money can buy. Personally I’d be looking towards the cheaper Comp or Expert models, which incorporate many of the same features at a drastically lower price point.

Flow’s Verdict

So there you have it folks – those are the top 13 best XC bikes that we’ve tested here at Flow!

As mentioned earlier, this isn’t an exhaustive list. As we test more bikes however, we’ll be adding them here so that we can compare them directly with the competition.

What this ongoing test series has made abundantly clear is that modern XC bikes are getting really bloody good. All of these bikes have impressed us in one way or another, and their unique personalities and quirks will make them appealing to different riders.

If getting a new bike isn’t in your current budget, then consider checking out our article on the top 8 upgrades for your XC bike . There may actually be a few modifications you can make to your existing bike to level-up its performance and capabilities, while helping to scratch that new bike itch.

Bikes tested

• Specializerd Epic 8
• Canyon Lux Trail Review
• Cervelo ZFS-5 Review
• Trek Supercaliber Review
• Specialized Epic World Cup Review
• Orbea Oiz Review
• Canyon Lux World Cup Review
• Scott Spark RC Review
• Giant Anthem Review
• Merida Ninety-Six Review
• Merida Ninety-Six 8000 Review
• Cannondale Scalpel Review
• Submit for Review
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Trek’s Newest E-Mountain Bike is Light, Fast, and Sporty

An adventurous pedal-assist bike, the E-Caliber has the heart of a cross-country racer.

The Takeaway: The Trek E-Caliber is a lightweight, XC-oriented electric mountain bike for riders who want a nimble and agile machine that excels on a wide range of trails.

• Trek claims the 34.8-pound E-caliber 9.9 XX1 AXS is the lightest full-suspension eMTB.
• 60mm carbon frame, 120mm fork, and aggressive geometry
• Fazua Evation pedal-assist motor can be removed for unassisted riding

Price: $11,999 Weight: 36 lb. (size Large)

A light and efficient 60mm carbon frame, cross country-oriented geometry, a 120mm fork, and...a Fazua Evation pedal assist motor?

Old Man Winter has been very uncooperative this month, leaving much of my trails buried deep beneath the snow . But as I write this, the sun is shining, snow is melting, and I’m optimistic that it won’t be long before I can hit the trails for some more substantial rides.

.css-1hhr1pq{text-align:center;font-size:1.1875rem;line-height:1.6;font-family:Charter,Charter-roboto,Charter-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;}.css-1hhr1pq em{font-style:italic;font-family:Charter,Charter-styleitalic-roboto,Charter-styleitalic-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;}.css-1hhr1pq strong{font-family:Charter,Charter-weightbold-roboto,Charter-weightbold-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-weight:bold;} 5 Things We Love About the Trek E-Caliber 9.9 XTR

Short Travel

The lightweight, single-pivot design allows just 60mm of travel.

Carbon Wheels

Bontrager Kovee XXX hoops are light, stiff, and very durable.

Removable Motor

The battery and drive unit can be taken out of the downtube.

Minimalist Controls

The buttons for the Fazua motor blend nicely into the handlebar.

Lightweight rear suspension offers great pedaling efficiency.

The E-Caliber was borne from Trek’s full-suspension XC racer, the Supercaliber . The Fazua Evation motor neatly integrated in the downtube gives riders three levels of pedal assist. Besides being very light (7.4 pounds on my scale), the battery and drive system are removable and can be replaced with a dummy battery that doubles as a storage compartment, leaving me with a 28-pound (for size Large) bike that should pedal like a non-electric bike.

Class 1 Fazua Evation Motor

The Fazua Evation motor is powered by a 250-Wh battery with a claimed range of 18 to 50 miles. As with all e-bikes, that depends heavily on what mode you use, how much you weigh, and how hilly the terrain is. The more power you demand, the quicker the battery drains.

That motor itself represents a departure for Trek, as we’re more accustomed to seeing bikes from the Wisconsin-based brand with Bosch’s stellar Performance Line CX motor. Ott attributed that move to the new Black Pepper Tune, “which we felt took a good bike and made it a great bike for us,” he said, because it refines power delivery over a broader cadence range. Ott also told me the new tune improved responsiveness, making the pedal assist engage sooner.

The system has three power modes with very Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance names. Breeze is the economy mode and gives riders a constant 100 watts of help. River provides progressive assistance where the motor’s software attempts to match the amount of assist with what you’re putting into the pedals, but only up to 210 watts. The full gas mode is called Rocket, which gives riders an extra 250 watts regardless of how much effort they put into the pedals. But because this is a Class 1 e-bike , additional power cuts out when speed tops 20 miles per hour regardless of mode.

Fazua plans to release an app in April that will give riders complete freedom to customize the power curve in all levels of assist.

The E-Caliber retains the IsoStrut single-pivot suspension design from the Supercaliber, giving the bike just 60mm of rear wheel travel and exceptionally low weight due to the lack of pivots and linkage. But things change on the front end to handle the extra speed and hard riding the motor adds to the equation. Front suspension goes up to 120mm, giving the bike a more adventurous feel like the Cannondale Scalpel SE and Specialized Epic EVO . Head angle is kicked out to 67.5 degrees, the result of bumping travel up by 20mm. That’s still aggressive by trail standards but within the realm of modern XC geometry like we see on the Scalpel, Specialized Epic , and BMC Twostroke 01 . Reach got longer than the Supercaliber’s, in this case by 15mm (440mm for a Large).

Those three changes represent the main geometry differences between the E-Caliber and its analog sibling. As with other bikes that get the longer/lower/slacker treatment, the idea was to add stability at high speed and make the bike handle better on rougher terrain.

Trek E-Caliber 9.9 XTR Details

Style: E-mountain bike Material: Carbon Wheel Size: 29er Fork: Fox SC34 Factory 120mm Shock: Trek IsoStrut 60mm Drivetrain: Shimano XTR Cranks: E*thirteen E*spec Race Carbon Chainring: 32t Cassette: Shimano XTR 10-51 Brakes: Shimano XTR M9120 4-piston Wheels: Bontrager Kovee XXX 30 Carbon Tires: 2.4-inch Bontrager XR3 Team Issue Saddle: Bontrager Verse Pro Seatpost: Bontrager XXX OCLV Carbon Handlebar: 750mm Bontrager Line Pro OCLV Carbon Stem: 70mm Bontrager Kovee Pro Tire Clearance: 29 x 2.4-inches

Where Does This Bike Fit In?

Mid-travel e-bikes have proven to be great options for a wide range of uses, not the least of which are shuttling enduro runs, ripping flow trails, and making any hard, mountainous trail more accessible to riders who have less than professional-level fitness. However, those bikes can quickly lose their appeal for riders who enjoy taking a more active role in piloting because the heavy frames, big tires, and longer travel have a way of letting you steamroll over obstacles. The E-Caliber is still a 36-pound bike, which, while light for an electric mountain bike, is hefty. I don’t expect it to behave exactly like my XC bike that weighs 30 percent less, but I’ll be looking very carefully to see if it holds onto the spirit of that style of riding. I’m cautiously optimistic that the combination of short travel, light weight, and aggressive geometry will make for a bike that opens up the joys of long trail adventures and ripping fast singletrack to a segment of riders that may not otherwise get to experience that thrill.

E-Caliber Family

The E-Caliber is available in five models priced from $6,499 for the E-Caliber 9.6 all the way to $12,499 for the range-topping, jaw-dropping, 34.8 pound E-Caliber 9.9 XX1 AXS. All models share the same full-carbon, 60mm frame with a 120mm fork. Interestingly, the top-tier 9.9 XTR and 9.9 XX1 AXS builds do not come with dropper posts. That’s disappointing, but it’s a move we often see on new XC bikes, where droppers are omitted for the sake of keeping the weight as low as possible. As ubiquitous as dropper posts are these days, it feels like an artificial way to claim a lower weight. If you’d like a dropper stock on your bike, look to any of the three lower priced options. You can also add a dropper to any of the higher priced models through Trek's Project One options.

The cheapest (still $6,499) E-Caliber, the 9.6, features a drivetrain that’s a mix of Shimano XT and Deore, with a 120mm RockShox Gold fork and Bontrager Kovee Comp wheels. For $7,999 the E-Caliber 9.8 gives you Bontrager Kovee Pro carbon wheels, a 120mm RockShox SID Select+ fork and the choice of either a SRAM GX or Shimano XT drivetrain. The next jump is a steep one: an extra $3,500 nets you the E-Caliber 9.9 XTR with a 120mm Fox Factory 34 SC fork and Bontrager Kovee XXX Carbon wheels. The top spot is reserved for riders willing to plunk down 12,499 bones for a dreamy bike, the E-Caliber 9.9 XX1 AXS, resplendent with SRAM’s wireless shifting and a 120mm RockShox Sid Ultimate fork.

Trek E-Caliber 9.9 XTR

.css-1t6om3g:before{width:1.75rem;height:1.75rem;margin:0 0.625rem -0.125rem 0;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-background-size:1.25rem;background-size:1.25rem;background-color:#F8D811;color:#000;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-position:center;background-position:center;}.loaded .css-1t6om3g:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/bicycling/static/images/chevron-design-element.c42d609.svg);} Bike Reviews

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Best cross-country mountain bikes 2024 | 13 top-rated XC mountain bikes and our buyer's guide

The top cross-country bikes as rated by our expert reviewers, plus our buyer's guide for everything you need to know

Andy Lloyd / Our Media

Joe Norledge

Cross-country is one of the most exciting disciplines within mountain biking. Races are often close, with elbow-to-elbow action right until the line, and the best cross-country mountain bikes combine everything we love about mountain biking – riding fast, uphill and downhill.

Cross-country mountain bike technology has advanced quickly in the last few years. Cross-country bikes are now lighter, faster and more capable than ever, while many cross-country race tracks have become more demanding at the same time.

If you’re thinking about buying a cross-country bike, then read on for our pick of the best bikes reviewed by our expert testers.

We’ve also put together a buyer's guide so you can learn everything you need to know about cross-country bikes at the end of this article .

If you’re tempted to start riding competitively, we’ve got a separate beginner's guide to cross-country racing .

Best cross-country mountain bikes 2024, as rated by our expert testers

Lapierre prorace cf 9.9.

• Fast, fun, comfortable and good value
• Frame compliance adds speed
• £5,999 / €6,799 as tested

The Prorace is Lapierre's top-end carbon race hardtail and uses its 3D Tubular concept that the brand has employed on its road bikes since 2015 to boost compliance. This is effectively a triple-triangle design, which sees the seatstays separated from the seat tube.

We found this really helped when climbing because the frame reduces the amount the bike skips and slips around and it smoothes out the trail when descending, too. That said, don't expect it to tame the trails to the extent of a full-suspension bike.

The Prorace handles well and the geometry gives it a fun and engaging ride, even if it's not the most progressive.

This SRAM-heavy build features a RockShox SID SL Ultimate fork up front, a wireless AXS drivetrain and a set of Level TLM brakes.

We really rate the Maxxis Rekon Race tyres, their low-profile, densely packed tread rolling fast on smooth surfaces, balanced with their suppleness.

• Read our full Lapierre Prorace CF 9.9 review

Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2

• Direct feel with capable geometry
• One-piece bar and stem plus narrow tyres
• £10,800 as tested

The Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 is a thoroughbred cross-country race bike, delivering razor-sharp handling and a direct feel under power. 

With its IsoStrut rear shock partially hidden in the top tube, the Supercaliber is intended to offer the efficiency of a hardtail with the comfort of rear suspension.

Pair this with the updated and more capable geometry and you have a bike that balances efficiency and composure. 

If you want a top-spec race bike for more demanding trails, the Supercaliber would be a great choice, but you might want to swap in some wider tyres. 

• Read our full Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 review

Vitus Rapide FS CRX

• Balanced modern geometry and smooth suspension
• Excellent spec for the money
• £3,999.99 as tested

Vitus’ Rapide FS CRX is a great performing full-suspension cross-country bike that packs a punch with its value-for-money spec.

The unidirectional carbon frame utilises a four-bar linkage system and a flexstay design to deliver 100mm of suspension travel.

One look at the geometry sheet tells us Vitus has drawn from its experience in the trail and enduro market for the Rapide’s design – the reach comes in at 500mm in size large. The head angle, at 67 degrees, is also rather slack and the 77-degree effective seat tube is bang on trend.

The Vitus is decked out with some of the best components on the market, including a RockShox SID SL Ultimate fork and Shimano XT brakes.

On the trail, the Vitus Rapide FS CRX is quick to pick up speed and efficient under power. Pointed downhill, the capable suspension and geometry make for a confidence-inspiring ride.

• Read our full Vitus Rapide FS CRX review

YT Izzo Uncaged 7

• A riot of a descender that still climbs like the best of them
• Makes the most of YT’s signature value for money
• £6,299 / $6,499 as tested

With the Izzo, German direct-to-consumer brand YT has entered the world of XC with a bang.

Packing 120mm of suspension controlled by a four-bar linkage, the Izzo Uncaged 7’s carbon frame also features adjustable geometry.

A flip chip offers 0.4 degrees of adjustment to the head and seat tube angles and a 5mm bottom bracket height adjustment, enabling riders to set their bike up to suit a variety of trails.

The Izzo’s geometry is very progressive, with a 66.5-degree head angle and 77.5-degree effective seat tube angle in the slack setting. The reach comes in at 475mm in size large.

As we’ve come to expect from YT, the spec offers incredible value for money. The Izzo is equipped with top-of-the-line RockShox SID and SIDLuxe Ultimate suspension, SRAM G2 Ultimate brakes and a wireless XX1 AXS drivetrain.

On the descents, the YT’s balanced suspension and capable geometry make it a riot to ride fast and it comfortably takes on trails well above its pay grade.

Despite packing more travel than most other XC bikes, the Izzo also excels on the climbs, offering a supportive pedalling platform and fast-rolling performance.

• Read our full YT Izzo Uncaged 7 review

BMC Fourstroke 01 Two AXS

• Decent geometry and an eager climber
• Great suspension feel
• £8,300 / $8,999 / €8,499 as tested

BMC’s Fourstroke piloted Tom Pidcock to Olympic Gold . On our trails, it made for a fairly poised race-ready ripper.

The Fourstroke’s geometry is up-to-date and it climbs with near-impeccable pedalling manners. It pumps through rolling terrain well and the bike eggs you on to accelerate and push yourself towards your limits on a wide variety of trails.

The SRAM GX Eagle AXS drivetrain performed flawlessly and the Fox suspension package felt supple.

However, it does require a tyre change to fully unlock its potential because the stock Vittoria Barzo tyres made the ride feel nervous and skittery. We’re not fully sold on BMC’s RAD integrated dropper seatpost, but admittedly it looks aesthetically pleasing.

• Read our full BMC Fourstroke 01 Two AXS review

Cannondale Scalpel HT Carbon 4

• Impressive all-round capability
• Good spec for the price tag
• £2,600 / $2,300 as tested

The Scalpel HT Carbon 4 is the most affordable bike in the Scalpel line-up, aimed at the gnarlier end of cross-country.

Cannondale has evolved the typical XC race geometry by offering slacker head angles, giving the Scalpel HT handling character similar to an enduro bike. Steeper seat tube angles retain climbing ability and we were impressed by the traction provided by the zones in the rear triangle.

The Scalpel HT Carbon 4 features a RockShox SID SL fork and uses both Shimano XT and Deore drivetrain and brake components.

• Read our full Cannondale HT Carbon 4 review

Giant Anthem Advanced Pro 29 1

• Excellent modern geometry
• Agile yet confident handling
• £6,999 / $7,500 / AU$9,099 as tested

The Giant Anthem saw a refresh in late 2021 with updated geometry, a longer 110mm-travel suspension fork, and flexible seatstays and chainstay to simulate the articulation of a pivot point.

This particular model uses the Fox Live Valve suspension system . The system has electronic link sensors on the fork and frame, which automatically open and close the fork and shock’s compression circuit when a bump is detected.

With its modern geometry, the bike climbs reasonably well, although there is some bob. Heading downhill, the bike feels stable and secure over loose surfaces with supple suspension (Live Valve settings-dependent).

The Anthem is equipped with a Shimano XT drivetrain and brakes, which offer next-to-identical performance to Shimano XTR. The bike has own-brand carbon wheels and handlebars.

• Read our full Giant Anthem Advanced Pro 29 1 review

Intense Sniper XC Expert

• Composed on climbs and descents
• A carbon-everything frameset
• £3,699 as tested

Although Intense is best known for its gravity-oriented bikes, the Sniper XC has an engaging ride quality that’s fast around a cross-country race course.

The geometry is nice and modern, with a long 468mm reach and a 67.5-degree head tube angle, which is slack for a cross-country bike.

The Sniper climbs well, bearing in mind there is no remote lockout. There is some pedal bob though, especially when sprinting.

The bike descends assuredly, offering a smooth ride on rough descents while maintaining stiffness.

Shimano’s third-tier SLX drivetrain performs excellently, as does the Fox Performance suspension. The bike comes with a dropper seatpost.

• Read our full Intense Sniper XC Expert review

Merida Ninety-Six RC 9000

• A classic-feeling race bike with inspired handling manners
• Solid spec choices
• £7,300 / €8,900 as tested

Although Merida’s Ninety-Six seems conventional with its 100mm of suspension travel front and rear, it features trail-friendly geometry with a 68.5-degree head tube angle and a steep 76-degree seat tube angle.

The bike features a Shimano XTR groupset, Fox Factory-level suspension and own-brand finishing kit.

We found it to be a rocket ship up the climbs, with the active suspension helping you maintain speed up rough and loose climbs. It has plenty of character through corners thanks to its reactive steering.

On descents, the Ninety-Six is slightly more nervous than the long reach would suggest.

The rear shock can lurch deeper into its travel than expected.

• Read our full Merida Ninety-Six RC 9000 review

Pivot LES SL 29 Pro XT/XTR

• Geometry inspires confidence
• Fast and fun
• £6,750 / $6,199 as tested

Pivot's LES SL is a carbon race bike with clean lines and an innovative carbon construction, in that the frames are moulded from the inside out to reduce imperfections. The carbon frames have also been optimised to provide the same ride feel, whatever the size.

The bike climbs well, with the frame feeling stiff but not to the point of being harsh. The winning geometry also means there's room to shift your weight around to maintain traction.

Heading down the other side, the LES SL handles well, thanks to its moderately long reach, head tube angle and 60mm stem. It holds its speed well over chattery trails and the handling feels precise.

The LES SL is adorned with a host of Pivot-branded kit, a Factory-level Fox 32 StepCast fork and a Shimano XT groupset, with an upgraded XTR rear derailleur.

The only real criticism we can level at the bike is the spec doesn't represent the best value for money when compared to its competitors.

• Read our full Pivot LES SL 29 Pro XT/XTR review

Santa Cruz Blur C X01 AXS RSV

• The brand’s lightest cross-country bike yet
• Inspired geometry with dependable handling
• £8,099 / $9,149 as tested

This Santa Cruz Blur is a bang-up-to-date cross-country mountain bike, with 100mm of suspension travel both front and rear. The Blur's geometry is just right – not so long and slack to feel sluggish, but stable enough for descents.

The bike offers a precise and composed ride, descending with plenty of confidence. It’s comfortable, fast and reactive, making it ideal for short races or marathon events.

Our only major reservation is that the TwistLoc lever-based lockout is not as intuitive to use as others. We found we needed to twist it quite far around the bar to lock the shock and it’s not the lightest either.

• Read our full Santa Cruz Blur X01 AXS RSV review

Scott Spark RC Team Issue AXS

• A radical but modern XC bike with an internal shock layout
• Bang up-to-date geometry
• £4,699 as tested

Scott’s latest Spark RC underwent quite a radical update, getting a new internal shock suspension layout and upping the travel to 120mm at both ends.

Despite the shock not being visible, setting up the Spark was incredibly easy and there’s a sag meter printed on the non-driveside seat tube and seatstay junction for guidance.

The updates result in a bike that’s dominant on the descents, despite not being specced with a dropper seatpost or particularly wide handlebars. Grip is excellent uphill and Scott’s TwinLoc remote lockout lever is incredibly easy to control from the bar.

The bike is specced with a SRAM GX Eagle AXS wireless electronic groupset, which impresses all who test it, and the suspension comes courtesy of RockShox, with Scott’s in-house brand, Syncros, featuring heavily for the rest of the build.

• Read our full Scott Spark RC Team Issue AXS review

Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup

• Reacts to pedal input like a hardtail
• Performance comes at the cost of versatility
• £12,000 as tested

The Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup is unapologetically XC race-focused.

The bike is an exceptional climber, thanks in part to the tyres and Roval Contact SL wheelset. Pedal bob is virtually eliminated when you run the rear shock in its ‘No Gulp’ setting, making the Epic feel a lot like a hardtail.

The 75mm of rear travel takes the sting out of descents rather than flattering your skills, but with a bit more thought, the bike can certainly compete against 120mm-travel XC race bikes.

This isn’t a hugely versatile bike. The suspension and harsh cockpit will leave you wanting a more forgiving ride when cruising around. But if you’re heading off to a race, this bike will reward your full-gas efforts. 

• Read our full Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup review

Cross-country mountain bike buyer's guide

What is a cross-country mountain bike.

A cross-country mountain bike is designed to cover a variety of off-road terrain as quickly as possible. It needs to be equally capable of climbing and descending, while also being efficient when pedalling on flatter terrain, or picking a line through tight, twisting singletrack.

Cross-country bikes are usually the lightest type of mountain bike you can buy for a given price and are often made from carbon fibre, although more affordable aluminium options are also widely available.

XC bikes have less suspension travel than trail bikes and enduro bikes , so won’t be as adept on very steep, rough and technical trails. That being said, in the right hands – for example, a professional rider – a cross-country bike is surprisingly capable.

While cross-country bikes are designed mainly for racing, they’re equally at home on mellower trails, or a big day out in the hills when you’ll value the all-round capability of an XC bike on varied terrain.

What about downcountry?

Before we go any further, we need to quickly mention downcountry bikes.

Downcountry is a fairly new term within mountain biking. In essence, it refers to bikes that blur the line between dedicated cross-country race bikes and more forgiving trail bikes.

A downcountry bike will have a little more suspension travel than a cross-country race bike; normally in the region of 120 to 130mm at the front and 110 to 115mm at the rear.

It will also have geometry that leans more towards descending performance than pedalling efficiency. For example, a slacker head angle, longer reach and longer wheelbase.

Finally, the componentry will be chosen with descending in mind, with more powerful brakes, larger/grippier tyres and a dropper post.

For riders who want a fast, versatile bike for a variety of terrain, downcountry bikes fill that gap. If this sounds like the type of bike for you, then check out our buyer’s guide to the best downcountry mountain bikes .

Hardtail vs full-suspension for XC racing

The first decision you need to make when buying a cross-country bike is whether you want a hardtail or full-suspension bike .

A hardtail only has suspension at the front through the fork , while a full-suspension bike has suspension at the front and rear.

There are pros and cons to each for cross-country riding, and this will influence which option will be best for you.

Hardtail bike for XC riding

For a given spec, a hardtail will nearly always be lighter than a full-suspension bike. So if you live somewhere hilly, or just prioritise climbing performance above all else, then a hardtail could be a good option.

With suspension only at the front of the bike, a hardtail is simpler in its design, making it easier and cheaper to maintain than a full-suspension bike.

Finally, for the same cost, a hardtail can often come with a better spec than a full-suspension bike, so may require less, if any, upgrading in the future.

Full-suspension bike for XC riding

While a hardtail will typically be lighter, more affordable and simpler to maintain than a full-suspension bike, when it comes to descending performance, a full-susser will win every time.

They’re also more comfortable than a hardtail, which is especially important for longer rides or races.

On rough, flat terrain, full-suspension bikes will often enable you to pedal more efficiently because the rear suspension soaks up any bumps in the ground.

As we’ve already mentioned, they will usually be heavier. However, this gap has narrowed over recent years, and at the top end, they may only weigh a kilo or two more than a hardtail.

For many riders, the relatively small weight penalty of a full-suspension bike is worth the benefits of better descending, more comfort and increased pedalling efficiency on rough terrain.

What to look for when buying a cross-country bike

Now you’ve decided between a hardtail and full-suspension bike, here’s what else you need to look out for when buying a cross-country bike.

Cross-country bikes have traditionally had ‘steeper’ geometry figures than trail or enduro bikes. The logic was that the ‘quicker’ handling made cross-country bikes better in tight singletrack and elbow-to-elbow racing.

However, modern cross-country racing now takes place on much tougher courses, which are equal parts tricky descents and lung-searing climbs, so geometry has had to keep up with this trend.

Head angles as slack as 67 degrees and reach figures once only seen on trail bikes are not uncommon on modern cross-country bikes.

They will also have steeper seat angles of around 74 to 75 degrees, which puts a rider's hips in a better position over the bottom bracket for pedalling efficiency.

Prime examples of modern cross-country geometry are the Specialized Epic and the BMC Twostroke.

Frame material

There are two main frame materials to choose from: carbon fibre and aluminium.

When it comes to professional racing, every rider will use carbon fibre; it’s lighter than aluminium and can be designed to be stiffer, so makes perfect sense if all you're worried about is going as fast as possible, with little concern for budget.

The downside of carbon is it’s more expensive than aluminium, and in certain situations, more susceptible to crash damage.

Aluminium is more affordable and better at resisting damage from certain impacts. This makes it ideal if you’re looking to save money or want your bike to be as durable as possible. The latest aluminium frames can be impressively light, too.

Titanium and steel cross-country bikes do exist, but these are in the minority.

How much does a cross-country mountain bike weigh?

Your power-to-weight ratio is important for success in cross-country, so naturally riders want the lightest equipment possible, while still being able to withstand the demands of hard riding or racing.

You might find a top-spec hardtail weighing in at under 8kg, which is incredibly impressive considering what these bikes are capable of. More affordable models typically weigh anywhere from 9 to 11kg.

When it comes to full-suspension bikes, a top-spec model could come in just under 10kg, with more affordable bikes weighing anywhere from 12 to 14kg.

While overall bike weight is a factor, especially if you’re an elite racer, there are much better and cheaper ways to get faster when you’re starting out – such as training.

So, try not to get too hung up with weight early on. There’ll be plenty of time to start counting those grams and emptying your wallet as you progress gradually through the ranks.

On modern cross-country bikes, nearly every model will feature 29in mountain bike wheels .

While 29ers took a while to truly catch on, they’re now considered a smart option for many riders, thanks to their ability to roll over obstacles more easily, and arguably provide better pedalling speed.

In some circumstances, such as for particularly short riders, it may be best to go for smaller 27.5in wheels, but for most people, 29ers are the way to go for XC bikes.

If you want more information, we’ve got a guide to mountain bike wheel sizes , covering the pros and cons of 26in, 27.5in and 29in wheels.

Tyre choice comes down to a balancing act between rolling resistance/speed and grip, so the best cross-country tyres will usually have smaller tread blocks than trail or enduro tyres.

XC tyres may also have thinner sidewalls to save weight, and in some cases be made out of a slightly harder compound, which can roll faster.

However, remember a harder compound will, in theory, provide less grip, and thinner sidewalls offer less puncture protection. As we said, there’s always a compromise to be made somewhere.

Cross-country tyres were traditionally much narrower than trail or enduro tyres – but, as the sport has changed, the tyre sizes have increased, so you’ll now find cross-country tyres in the 2.2in to 2.4in range.

How much travel do you need?

When it comes to suspension travel , nearly all cross-country bikes will have 100mm of front and rear travel.

As we’ve already mentioned, downcountry bikes up this travel a little, with around 110-115mm at the back and 120-130mm on the front.

That said, it’s also worth bearing in mind how the Scott Spark, a pure XC race bike, now has 120mm at both the front and rear. As we said, XC race bikes are changing.

Scott knows a thing or two about making great cross-country bikes – the outgoing Spark was hugely popular on the XC scene – so it’ll be interesting to see if longer travel on dedicated race bikes will start to catch on.

Just like the best trail mountain bikes , cross-country bikes have almost exclusively moved to 1x drivetrains , with Shimano and SRAM mountain bike groupsets dominating the market.

1x drivetrains have one chainring at the front (removing the need for a front derailleur), with a wide-ranging 11- or 12-speed cassette at the back to still provide a big spread of gears.

Stronger professional riders have been known to run up to a 38-tooth chainring at the front. However, at the amateur level most riders will normally go for a 32- or 34-tooth chainring instead.

Cassette sizes usually range from a 10- or 11-tooth sprocket for the hardest gear to a 51- or 52-tooth sprocket for the easiest climbing gear.

This is a pretty big spread and should keep those legs turning up the steepest of climbs.

Cross-country bikes will commonly be fitted with lightweight disc brakes. These will have smaller rotors, with most riders opting for 160mm front and rear.

Some particularly powerful riders may pop a 180mm rotor on the front, and the lightest riders may go for a 140mm on the rear, but in general, 160mm is what’s seen most commonly.

XC disc brakes won’t be quite as powerful as the brakes you’ll find on an enduro bike, but they’re more than capable for the job at hand.

On the most affordable bikes, these may be cable-actuated disc brakes, but from the mid-range and up, you’ll find hydraulic mountain bike disc brakes on all cross-country bikes.

Dropper posts

The best dropper posts enable you to lower your saddle height at the touch of a button or lever mounted on your handlebar. This helps with descending because you’re able to move the bike and your weight around more easily.

Droppers were once unheard of in cross-country racing because most riders thought they were too heavy and unreliable. But as the sport and dropper technology has progressed, they’ve become more popular, with many pro riders making the switch.

Dropper posts aren’t necessarily cheap, but if you can afford one, or your bike already comes with one, they can be a great addition for a relatively small weight penalty (around 400 to 500g).

For many riders, adding a dropper post can really increase the descending capability of a bike, which is why it’s one of the smartest mountain bike upgrades you can make.

How much should you spend on a cross-country bike?

You can spend anywhere from £500 all the way up to £10,000 on a cross-country bike. While elite riders may want the best money can buy, most keen amateur racers will usually spend between £2,000 and £5,000 on their XC bike.

That said, more affordable bikes in the £750 to £2,000 range are still excellent options for beginners or riders looking to save money.

As ever, it’s a case of weighing up your priorities when it comes to price, component choice, weight and so on, before taking the plunge.

• Best mountain bikes under £3,000
• Best mountain bikes under £2,000
• Best mountain bikes under £1,000
• Best mountain bikes under £750

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Cross Country USA: Portland to Portland Bike Tour

The Bucket List Trip from Portland, Oregon to Portland, Maine

Tour Duration

Cross Country

Activity Level

Hotel Level

Trek Domane SL 7

Starting from

$ 26,999.00 per person

Have a question?

The goal: ambitious. The training: intense. The opportunity: unrivaled. This is your ultimate bucket-list bike tour.

We are excited to offer our epic Cross Country USA trip from Portland to Portland again this year! If you're ready for the cross country bike trip of a lifetime, prepare to join Trek Travel on a bicycle tour that stretches from the Pacific to the Atlantic, across the northern tier of this beautiful country. As we bike across America, you'll ride 3,800 miles across 15 states over the course of 43 riding days—all from the saddle of a top-of-the-line Trek Domane bicycle, the use of which is included in your trip price. The average distance is 88 miles per day with the longest ride being 126 miles. You'll have 15 days at 100 miles or more, including multiple back to back centuries, and four rest days. Although the challenge and dedication to training is substantial, your Trek Travel guides will be with you every pedal stroke of the way, offering encouragement, mechanical and logistical support, camaraderie, and our renowned Trek Travel guest service. Our signature attention to detail and exhaustive planning and provisioning will leave you free to focus on riding. You'll accomplish more physically in 48 days than most people do in a lifetime!

Ride through the Columbia River Gorge past panoramic viewpoints and breathtaking sights like Multnomah Falls

Follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, two of the world’s greatest explorers, as you travel the country like pioneers

Pedal past the eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires of South Dakota’s Badlands National Park

Catch a glimpse of Amish country in action as you make your way through the country roads and small towns of the Midwest

Revel in the spectacular scenery as you climb through New York’s Adirondack Mountains, Vermont’s Green Mountains, and New Hampshire’s White Mountains

Final day in Portland, Maine

Check this iconic trip off your Bucket List

Join us for the true adventure of a lifetime as you ride past some of the countries most iconic landmarks and historical sights. See the United States like never before as you pedal from the Pacific to the Atlantic.

What Guests are Saying

Trip was phenomenal, it was truly a ride of a lifetime and Trek Travel's attention to detail and the incredible staff are top notch. Would recommend this trip to all who have a desire to be taken care of in all areas, guides, equipment, safety, and organization. Truly a great opportunity to fulfill your dream of a lifetime, to ride cross country. THANK YOU TREK TRAVEL.

Mike, Trek Travel Guest

Trek Travel did an outstanding job each and every day for 7-weeks to make my lifelong dream of cycling across America come true. I could not have accomplished this big, audacious goal without Trek.

Dave, Trek Travel Guest

Thank you a million times for helping me make a lifetime dream come true! You all were awesome in every way.

Sybil, Trek Travel Guest

Badlands National Park

The awe-inspiring view changes with every turn as you pedal through the colorful spires and buttes of Badlands National Park.

Dates & Pricing

Book early for the best price

Join Waitlist

Limited Availability

August 22-october 8, 2024 join waitlist.

Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:

• Cross Country Hotel

Available bikes:

$ 26999.00 per person

Double Occupancy

Single Occupancy from: + 5,999.00

You have another booking already in progress

Booking a new trip will cancel all of your previous booking progress. Continue your previous booking or proceed with your new booking.

Arrival / Departure

Where to Arrive

Portland International Airport (PDX)

Pick-up location :

Portland Marriott Waterfront, Portland, Oregon

Pick-up time :

Where to Depart

Portland International Jetport (PWM)

Drop-off location :

Press Hotel, Portland, Maine

Drop-off time :

Additional Arrival Information

We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the start of your bike across America adventure, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays.

We recommend that you fly into Portland International Airport (PDX), which is approximately 12 miles from downtown Portland. You can hail a taxi outside baggage claim, which will cost approximately $35 plus gratuity and should take about 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront (1401 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR) at 9:00 AM on the first day of the trip. You will then shuttle approximately two hours to Astoria for a picnic and bike fit followed by your first ride. Please feel free to dress comfortably for the shuttle, but keep your riding clothes and gear handy and separate from your main luggage. You will be able to change at the hotel before the ride. Your main luggage will be stored until your room is ready.

If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. If you cannot reach them, please call our first hotel, Cannery Pier Hotel (503-325-4996), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details.

Additional Departure Information

You will say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the Press Hotel. We recommend that you fly out of the Portland International Jetport (PWM), which is located about six miles from downtown. A taxi can be arranged with assistance from the front desk, takes about 20 minutes and will cost approximately $25 plus gratuity.

Day 1 Aug 22 - Astoria to Pacific Ocean

Aug 22 - Astoria to Pacific Ocean

Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Marriott Downtown Waterfront Hotel at 9:00 AM on the first day of the trip. Today is the day to get everything in order before embarking on your cross-country odyssey. After a two-hour shuttle to the town of Astoria, you will enjoy a hearty welcome lunch and brief introductions, and your guides will take time to ensure you have a comfortable fit on your bike. We recommend that you have a professional bike fit early in you... Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Marriott Downtown Waterfront Hotel at 9:00 AM on the first day of the trip. Today is the day to get everything in order before embarking on your cross-country odyssey. After a two-hour shuttle to the town of Astoria, you will enjoy a hearty welcome lunch and brief introductions, and your guides will take time to ensure you have a comfortable fit on your bike. We recommend that you have a professional bike fit early in your training for the greatest efficiency and to reduce the risk of injury. Please bring your measurements, as well as your saddle, pedals, personal GPS unit, and any other equipment you would like affixed to your bike to this meeting so your guides can set up your bike to your requirements. Following the bike fit, safety tips and some introductory information, it's time for a short scenic spin from Astoria to Fort Stevens State Park and down to the Pacific Ocean where you can dip your wheel into the water to mark the official start of your journey. Use the rest of this ride to warm up your legs and make sure you are comfortable in the saddle. Your warm-up ride will be followed by a social hour and dinner, where your guides will discuss your upcoming adventure in more detail and answer any questions you may have. Read More

Cannery Pier Hotel

Meals included

Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner

Highlight of the Day

Dip your wheel in the Pacific Ocean

Pedal to Shipwreck Point to commemorate the official start of this epic journey.

Ride Options

Ride Option 1

TODAY'S RIDE:

Astoria to Fort Stevens Return - Approximately 30 mi | 48 km and 789 ft | 240 m

Day 2 Aug 23 - Astoria to Portland

Aug 23 - Astoria to Portland

Your adventure begins today as you depart Astoria and head for Portland on your first long ride of the trip! It's time to bid farewell to the West Coast and turn east as you ease into your first pedal strokes along Youngs River and through the beautiful and densely forested Clatsop State Forest. As you ride, the enclosed green canopy and winding roads gradually open up to bring you just north of Portland where you will continue southeast on the Scappoose-Vernonia Hi... Your adventure begins today as you depart Astoria and head for Portland on your first long ride of the trip! It's time to bid farewell to the West Coast and turn east as you ease into your first pedal strokes along Youngs River and through the beautiful and densely forested Clatsop State Forest. As you ride, the enclosed green canopy and winding roads gradually open up to bring you just north of Portland where you will continue southeast on the Scappoose-Vernonia Highway and directly into downtown. Explore one of America's most bike-friendly cities this evening as you relish the feeling of accomplishment from completing your first full day in the saddle. Read More

Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Ride through Portland

Get a glimpse of what makes Portland a Platinum level Bicycle Friendly Community during your first big ride.

Astoria, OR to Portland, OR - Approximately 100 mi | 161 km and 4,768 ft | 1,453 m

Day 3 Aug 24 - Portland to Hood River

Aug 24 - Portland to Hood River

You'll depart Portland this morning on a network of popular bike trails and lanes. Once in Troutdale, you will ride on the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway 30 that separates Washington from Oregon. The north side of this 75-mile scenic byway boasts spectacular views of the Columbia River Gorge while the south is blessed with a collection of astonishing waterfalls. Take the time to stop at Columbia Point, one of the most scenic outlooks on the journey, and visit... You'll depart Portland this morning on a network of popular bike trails and lanes. Once in Troutdale, you will ride on the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway 30 that separates Washington from Oregon. The north side of this 75-mile scenic byway boasts spectacular views of the Columbia River Gorge while the south is blessed with a collection of astonishing waterfalls. Take the time to stop at Columbia Point, one of the most scenic outlooks on the journey, and visit the Vista House which was built as a rest stop for early travelers. As you finish your ride, don't forget to look out onto the river, as Hood River is renowned as one of the best windsurfing locations in the U.S. Tonight is yours to explore. Take a stroll down Oak Street and dine in one of the many tasty bistros. Read More

Hampton Inn

Breakfast | Lunch

Ride the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway

Enjoy the view as you pedal along this scenic byway, including the famed Multnomah Falls.

Portland, OR to Hood River, OR - Approximately 75 mi | and 121 km and 3,750 ft | 1,143 m

Day 4 Aug 25 - Hood River to Condon

Aug 25 - Hood River to Condon

Depart this windsurfing and mountain-biking hotspot to continue following the Lewis and Clark Trail along the water. Cycle through the five-mile Mosier Twin Tunnels Trail that passes through two climate zones and is bordered by numerous types of foliage and plants. The route hugs the Columbia River on Interstate 84 for about 15 miles before turning inland. Finish the day’s ride winding past rolling ranch lands, and tackling the climbs through Cottonwood Canyon Sta... Depart this windsurfing and mountain-biking hotspot to continue following the Lewis and Clark Trail along the water. Cycle through the five-mile Mosier Twin Tunnels Trail that passes through two climate zones and is bordered by numerous types of foliage and plants. The route hugs the Columbia River on Interstate 84 for about 15 miles before turning inland. Finish the day’s ride winding past rolling ranch lands, and tackling the climbs through Cottonwood Canyon State Park and Recreation Area. We’ll be spending the night in Condon, a proud, century-old farming community nestled between miles of rolling, golden wheat fields in Eastern Oregon. Read More

Hotel Condon | Condon Motel

Stay at Historic Hotel Condon

Built in 1920, the historic Hotel Condon offers classic charm with a quaint, “small-town America” atmosphere.

Hood River, OR to Condon, OR - Approximately 94 mi | 151 km and 7,835 ft | 2,388 m

Day 5 Aug 26 - Condon to Hermiston

Aug 26 - Condon to Hermiston

After a hilly start this morning, we'll reach the small town of Heppner, known as the “Gateway to the Blues.” Pedal a short stretch of the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway before gradually descending back towards the Columbia River. Enjoy dinner at Nookie’s restaurant, home of the Hermiston Brewing Company & Tap House. This historic building housed a Plymouth dealership for many years in the early 1940s, but now offers over 15 beers produced in-house! Spend the nigh... After a hilly start this morning, we'll reach the small town of Heppner, known as the “Gateway to the Blues.” Pedal a short stretch of the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway before gradually descending back towards the Columbia River. Enjoy dinner at Nookie’s restaurant, home of the Hermiston Brewing Company & Tap House. This historic building housed a Plymouth dealership for many years in the early 1940s, but now offers over 15 beers produced in-house! Spend the night in Hermiston, once known as home of Six Mile House, an old-west hotel that served as a stopover for weary travelers, and is now famous for watermelon farms. Read More

Holiday Inn Express

Cross the Blue Mountains

Continue to roughly follow the route of Lewis and Clark as you cross over the Blue Mountains.

Condon, OR to Hermiston, OR - Approximately 90 mi | 145 km and 4,087 ft | 1,246 m

Day 6 Aug 27 - Hermiston to Walla Walla

Aug 27 - Hermiston to Walla Walla

Today is a relatively short ride as we make our way into Washington. Pedal through high-desert sage and the farmland producing the sweet onions, wheat, and wine that give Walla Walla its flavor. Finish your ride in the heart of town where the tree-lined streets are lined with a mix of vintage shops, boutiques, cafes, and bookstores. This evening, venture out to enjoy a wine tasting and dinner of your choice.

Marcus Whitman or The Finch Hotel

Enter State #2 and discover Walla Walla

Walla Walla is one of the most beautiful towns in Washington and has over 30 tasting rooms featuring varietals from the surrounding wine cou... Walla Walla is one of the most beautiful towns in Washington and has over 30 tasting rooms featuring varietals from the surrounding wine country. Read More

Hermiston, OR to Walla Walla, WA - Approximately 70 mi | 113 km and 3,014ft | 919 m

Day 7 Aug 28 - Walla Walla to Lewiston

Aug 28 - Walla Walla to Lewiston

Climb out of Walla Walla on gently rolling hills as you make your way through eastern Washington's beautiful golden fields of wheat. Today you will work hard to get to Idaho, the third state of your journey, but the effort will be well worth it as you enjoy a long, winding descent into the state alongside the gentle Asotin Creek and the powerful Snake River. Shortly after crossing the border you will find yourself in Lewiston, located at the confluence of the Snake ... Climb out of Walla Walla on gently rolling hills as you make your way through eastern Washington's beautiful golden fields of wheat. Today you will work hard to get to Idaho, the third state of your journey, but the effort will be well worth it as you enjoy a long, winding descent into the state alongside the gentle Asotin Creek and the powerful Snake River. Shortly after crossing the border you will find yourself in Lewiston, located at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers. Due to a system of locks and dams, Lewiston is accessible by some ocean-going vessels and is the easternmost port on the west coast. Read More

Walla Walla, WA to Lewiston, ID - Approximately 98 mi | 158 km and 4,870 ft | 1,484 m

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Please view the full itinerary to see more days.

Rider Information

Rider Level: 4

Terrain: Hilly to Mountainous

On our Cross Country Tour, the terrain is extremely varied, including rolling terrain, long gradual climbs and descents, as well as steep climbing and descending. Roads are primarily two-lane secondary highways with good shoulders but include some short stretches of interstate highways with wide shoulders, smaller local roads, and surface streets with little or no shoulder. Some road surfaces may be rough. Our Portland to Portland cross country bike tour is best suited for our Type 4 Riders, due to the extreme physical demands of the trip.

Daily Average

88 miles | 142 kilometers

3,791 miles | 6,100 kilometers

3,606 feet | 1,099 meters

155,078 feet | 47,265 meters

This destination is best suited to guests who want to cycle every day. Because of the terrain and/or remoteness of the hotels and riding routes, there are few, if any, non-riding options available. If a non-rider wants to accompany a rider guest on this trip, they would need to spend many hours in the van and/or at the hotels on the trip. Due to this, we strongly discourage non-riders from this destination. As an alternative, call a Trek Travel Trip Consultant at 866-464-8735 for trip suggestions where more non-rider activities are available, such as:

• California Wine Country»
• Glacier National Park»
• Crater Lake & Oregon Cascades»
• Bryce & Zion»
• Prague to Vienna »

We've got you covered on and off the bike! Our team of guides will always have one in the support vehicle and one on the bike, ready to fill up your water bottles, fix a flat tire, or give you a lift when you really need it. They'll also give you the inside scoop on the best local spots. And when you're not riding, your guides are happy to help with anything you need - from finding the nearest chocolate milkshake, laundromat, or massage therapist.

• Fully guided and supported with at least two guides and one van
• Daily route on a pre-loaded Garmin GPS
• Additional guides and vehicles added dependent upon guest count and trip logistics

Built on the site of the former Union Fish Cannery, the Cannery Pier Hotel is located 600 feet into the Columbia River. From this unique and enviable position, it offers guests unparalleled views of a real working river, as well as views out to Cape Disappointment Lighthouse and the impressive Astoria–Megler Bridge. Each room has a private balcony and a fireplace, hardwood floors, and luxurious amenities. Take advantage of the authentic Finnish sauna before embarking upon the first ride of your long cross country journey.  Please note that only the first, last, and rest day hotels are shown here. 

DoubleTree Hotel Missoula – Edgewater

The Doubletree Edgewater is located in the heart of the college town of Missoula, on the banks of the Clark Fork River. The campus of the University of Montana is only three blocks away and the restaurants and main attractions of downtown are within walking distance. You may decide to take advantage of the world-class fly fishing right out the door, or maybe just kick back and take in the stunning views of Mount Sentinel and watch the river flow past.

Hotel Alex Johnson

Enjoy the authentic Native American decor at this historic hotel in the heart of downtown Rapid City. The guest rooms have been recently renovated, although we understand some may still be haunted. Spend your rest day visiting Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, or the wild west town of Deadwood.  Please note: On our second trip, on September 20th and 21st, you will stay at the Holiday Inn Rushmore Plaza instead of Hotel Alex Johnson.

Hotel Indigo Madison Downtown

Hotel Indigo Madison Downtown is a contemporary hotel situated just a short stroll from the downtown Capital Square. It is housed in the landmark Mautz Paint Company building where modern meets historic with creatively crafted murals throughout the space that showcase the authentic style of the original architecture. The well-appointed guest rooms feature nostalgic touches with modern amenities. Enjoy the convenience of an onsite restaurant as well as being a short walk away from countless local gems!

Hilton Garden Inn Corning Downtown

The Hilton Garden Inn offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Enjoy the heated indoor pool and use the fitness center for a recovery session. It is located next door to the famous Corning Museum of Glass and across the river from the city’s downtown Gaffer District where you’ll find the historic Market Street filled with restaurants and boutiques.

Press Hotel

The Press Hotel is a boutique luxury hotel in Portland’s famed Old Port District and is part of the Autograph Collection by Marriott, which features unique properties selected for their rich character and imaginative details. Constructed in 1923, the brick and stone building was the former home of the state’s largest newspaper, the Portland Press Herald. Many of the architectural details and artifacts have been preserved during its transformation into this stunning boutique hotel. Enjoy the array of artwork throughout the hotel and your beautifully appointed guest room with its oversized windows, marble-tiled bathrooms, luxury linens, vintage desks, and modern conveniences.

Bikes & Gear

Experiencing your cycling vacation of a lifetime is not complete without a world-class bike and the Trek Domane SL 7 Gen 4 is the best on the road. It raises the bar to deliver incredible endurance road bike comfort without sacrificing performance and features highly responsive disc brakes, road-smoothing IsoSpeed technology, and electronic shifting. This new bike is lighter than ever before, and carbon wheels are standard on every Domane SL 7 bike.

Trek Travel Guides

The World’s Best

From the moment you meet our guides, you'll understand the difference. You'll feel the genuine care they take to make your vacation perfect. From their expert support to sharing their favorite hidden spots, they tailor every moment to you.

Additional Gear

• Trek Travel Santini cycling jersey to keep
• Custom Cross Country Trek Travel Santini kit
• Trek Travel water bottles to keep
• Cinch sack day bag to keep
• *Bontrager saddle
• *Bontrager helmet
• Bontrager front and rear Flare R lights
• Garmin Edge 1030 GPS computer with pre-loaded routes
• Garmin Varia radar tail light
• *Shimano SPD-SL road style pedals, Shimano SPD mountain style pedals
• A flat pack containing a tube, levers, and a CO2 cartridge with inflator
• *For the most comfortable ride, we recommend you bring your own saddle. If you prefer, you can bring your own pedals and helmet on the trip and our guides will install your gear on the first day during your bike fit.

Trip Inclusions

• 47 nights of accommodation at handpicked hotels
• Two or more experienced guides to provide local knowledge, support, and camaraderie
• Daily route support with both guides and our support van
• Ride With GPS Experience for your phone with daily itinerary and route navigation information

• Daily breakfast, 42 lunches, and 37 dinners
• Six social hours of drinks and hors d'oeuvres
• Snacks and drinks for each day's ride
• Gu Energy Gels
• Entrance fees for all activities, private tours, and events
• All gratuities for drivers, local experts, and hospitality staff
• All luggage transfers and transportation during your trip
• A digital photo album of your trip
• Airfare and transportation to and from the trip pick-up/drop-off locations
• Lodging before and after the trip
• Personal items purchased during the trip
• Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel
• On select trips some meals are not included. On these trips, Trek Travel invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure.

Guide Gratuities

Guide gratuities are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this trip, we suggest a tip for your guides between $2400-$2880 per guest and, of course, you may choose to give more if your guides made your trip an unforgettable experience. While local currency is preferred, there are other options to make tipping easier. Most guides accept gratuity via PayPal or Venmo or our staff can help before or after the trip. Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.

Additional Details

Know Before You Go!

We want you to be fully prepared for your cycling vacation of a lifetime. This involves making sure that you choose the appropriate trip for you and that every aspect of your experience is flawless. Each Trek Travel trip is unique to ensure maximum enjoyment every time.

Your Trip Need to Knows:

• Routes : When planning this tour, we avoid interstates and busy roads as much as possible, however, due to the nature of this trip there are a few days where you will have stretches on the interstate and on busier than ideal roads.
• Cell Service: There are a few days where cell service is lacking on the route and at the hotel. Your guides will be equipped with walkie talkies and a satellite communication device to enable them to communicate and provide effective support even when cell service is lacking.
• Accommodations : You will stay in a blend of high-end hotels, resorts, rustic lodges, national chains, and roadside motels. The first and last nights of the trip and most rest days are spent in high-end, full-service hotels. Along the way, many hotels are national chains such as Best Western and Holiday Inn due to their consistent quality and service. We also pass through some areas where accommodations are limited and we stay in some basic roadside motels. Every effort has been made to secure the best lodging available, but in some rural parts of the country, our options are limited and may not meet the quality criteria of every guest.
• Alternate Hotels and Room Sharing: If the trip is near capacity, there are approximately five nights where the group will be split between two hotels. Guests will be placed in the alternate hotel based on booking order, starting with the last to book. In addition, some guests may have to share a room or bathroom once or twice during the trip, even if you book a single supplement.
• Dining: Most evenings, you will dine at the best restaurant available near the hotel—from simple, hearty dinners to decadent nouvelle cuisine. In an effort to provide an efficient meal and maximize recovery time, we sometimes opt for a buffet or have pizza, pasta or other fare delivered to a hotel conference room. We also strive to provide an early, hearty breakfast, but options and quality varies from town to town. As such, your guides will supplement breakfast at certain hotels.
• Energy Products: Trek Travel will have a range of energy products and electrolyte tablets on hand for whenever you need a boost. If you require a specific brand of energy product, we recommend bringing an adequate supply for your personal needs as there will be little opportunity to restock on this trip. For lunches, most days your guides set up “feed zones” at designated spots along the route. These are quick lunch stops providing sandwich fixings, light salads, fresh fruits, sweet and savory snacks, energy products, and beverages—designed to enable riders to maintain momentum. On occasion, you’ll dine at a perfectly situated cafe along the route.
• Training: Trek Travel provides our guests with a basic training plan, developed by Vision Quest Training , to help you prepare for this trip. Vision Quest also offers customized training plans specifically tailored to you – taking into account your equipment, terrain, goals, and fitness level. They offer a free consultation to help you determine whether the basic training plan or a customized version is right for you.

Before and After Your Trip

Portland, Oregon

We recommend spending a few days in the vibrant, bustling city of Portland, Oregon. An excellent public transit system makes it easy to get around the City of Roses (so named because its climate is very conducive to growing rose bushes). Portlanders are widely known for their enthusiasm for local food, microbrews, coffee, art, and bikes. The Willamette River flows through downtown and constitutes the boundary between east and west sections; Burnside Street divides north and south; and the north section is defined by the river to the west and Williams Avenue to the east. Locals use these sections to give directions, so it's good to be familiar with the general idea! Farm to table restaurants, food trucks, bike shops, fun and funky architecture, book stores (don't miss Powell's City of Books in the heart of downtown!), parks, and museums are abundant in this quintessential city of the Pacific Northwest. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre-trip hotel:

Where to Stay

Marriott Downtown Waterfront

Stay on trend at Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront, a reimagined hotel directly on the waterfront in downtown, surrounded by more than 60 breweries. This is our hotel of choice for the second night of our trip, and it comes with modern rooms, delicious dining choices, and the perfect location for enjoying the city. www.marriott.com

Hotel deLuxe

Part of the well-crafted Provenance Hotel group, Hotel deLuxe offers a desirable location in the Southwest District, close to the exclusive Pearl District and Nob Hill, and only a few blocks from the MAX Light Rail System. This luxurious property is centered around a cinema theme and features a beautiful collection of historic film stills that capture the magic of Hollywood from the the 1930s, '40s, and '50s. www.provenancehotels.com

Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel

Nestled just south of downtown Portland on a pedestrian river walk, the RiverPlace Hotel is a luxurious retreat that offers access to both an invigorating urban buzz and an enchanting natural landscape. Relax in the communal Living Room, try a local brew at the daily hosted social hour, and enjoy dinner at the onsite restaurant. The list of amenities here is long and includes a yoga mat in your room, spa services available in your room, a workout room with a Peloton bike, a curated music playlist, and a $10 credit at the King Tide Fish & Shell restaurant. www.riverplacehotel.com

Portland, Maine

The city of Portland, Maine (for which Portland, Oregon was named) has a relaxed, small-town feel that makes it an ideal place to unwind after your ride across the country. Take a few extra days to explore the cobbled Old Port District, check out the working waterfront and Portland Museum of Art in the arts district, and visit some of the many historical sights in town. Take a trolley tour or a lighthouse tour, or visit the Wadsworth-Longfellow House, childhood home of the American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. According to locals, Portland has more restaurants and bars per capita than any other city in the country outside of San Fransisco. Many of the more popular restaurants are chef-owned and highly renowned. Kick back and take in the sights and smells of the Atlantic as you relax at the conclusion of your epic trip. We recommend the following accommodations for your post-trip hotel:

The Press Hotel is a boutique luxury hotel in Portland’s famed Old Port District. It’s part of the Autograph Collection by Marriott, which features unique and imaginative properties selected for their quality, bold originality, rich character, and uncommon details. The Press Hotel offers spa services, a workout room, valet parking, and a free airport shuttle. When you are ready to explore the city, you are just steps away from the Old Port’s historic cobblestone streets full of galleries, shops, cafes, day-spas, and many historic landmarks. www.thepresshotel.com

Portland Regency Hotel & Spa

The Regency is also located in the Old Port District and offers a boutique experience in a property originally built as a home for the Maine National Guard in 1895. Each room retains some architectural elements from the original design of the home—alcoves, torrent windows, and decks. An on-site spa and fitness center, complimentary wireless internet, and valets to provide complimentary transportation to the airport make the Regency a convenient place to stay for your extra time in Portland. www.theregency.com

Hilton Garden Inn - Downtown Waterfront

This modern hotel is also located on the waterfront in Portland's Old Port District, just steps from the boutique shops, restaurants, and museums this area has to offer. It features an indoor lap pool, complimentary wireless internet, and airport shuttle. www.hilton.com

Packing and Weather

The weather across the country will be extremely varied. You can expect all conditions including rain, snow, fog, wind, sun, heat, and cold, in both humid and arid climates. Extreme weather conditions may exist in certain parts of the country. Your guides will monitor the safety of riding in such conditions and will delay or cancel rides if they deem the conditions to be too dangerous. Bring adequate layers and riding gear for riding in any and all conditions throughout our Cross Country bike tour. View our Packing List

Ready to book?

To reserve your space on a trip, you can either call us at 866-464-8735 to speak with an expert Trip Consultant or book online any time by clicking the “BOOK THIS TRIP” icon near the upper right of each destination’s overview page.* Once you have submitted your reservation online, a Trip Consultant will contact you within one business day to answer any questions you may have and to confirm space, bike, and room availability on your desired trip. Your booking will be finalized once your no-risk deposit is paid. If you make a reservation more than 90 days prior to the trip, a $750 no risk deposit is due at the time of booking.** If you reserve your trip less than 90 days prior to the departure, the full balance is due at the time of booking. Once your booking is complete you will receive an email confirmation with important information pertaining to your trip.

*Please note that select trips cannot be booked online at this time. For those trips, please call a trip consultant at 866-464-8735.

**Deposit amounts vary for all Race, Cross Country, Special Edition, Ride Camp, Discover, and Self-Guided tours. Please confirm deposit amounts for all trips with your Trip Consultant at time of booking.

What happens once I book?

When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation email is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start, you’ll receive an email containing your trip start meeting location reminder and any last-minute information that you’ll need to know. You will also receive instructions to download the Ride with GPS app before your trip to provide you the day to day plan and daily route guides.

Guaranteed to run

With one person booked on a date, the trip becomes guaranteed.*

In the case where trips are at one or two guests, we will contact you prior to final payment to give you the following options:

Pay a small trip fee of $500 per person for two guests or $1000 for one guest, which ensures your preferred trip date will run. If there are three or more guests before departure date, the fee will be refunded in full.

Switch to a different trip or different departure date. Should there be any difference in trip price between your original trip and the new one, you will be expected to pay the difference, or we will refund you accordingly.

Offer only valid if Trek Travel contacts a guest to discuss these specific options. Bike trips with fewer than three guests may operate with only one guide. The guide will support all rides with a Trek Travel van. If you would like to discuss the option of having two guides, please speak with your trip consultant.

The small trip supplement for Ride Camps is as follows – for two guests an additional $250 or for one guest an additional $500.

*Cross Country, Discover, Race, and Special Edition trips as well as a small number of select departures have a minimum guest count to guarantee. Please check with your Trip Consultant for more information.

Unforeseen events may make it necessary to cancel or modify a trip. Our Guest Services team will update you with any changes. We reserve the right to cancel departures in cases of force majeure or the failure of third parties—such as hotels—to honor their reservations, in which case all payments received to date will be refunded, which constitutes full settlement. Trek Travel is not responsible for expenses incurred in preparation for any canceled trips, such as airline tickets, or for costs that are incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations, or illness. We strongly encourage We strongly encourage Travel Protection for complete coverage.

What if I have to cancel my trip?

We understand things happen in life and sometimes you have to cancel or change your tour.

Read our Cancellation Policy

Our Trip Consultants are available to assist and can answer your questions. Please call us at 866-464-8735.

Travel Protection

Trek Travel recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help safeguard you and your travel investment against the unexpected. We offer a travel protection plan through Arch RoamRight that provides coverage for unforeseen events that could affect your ability to travel with us. Learn more about our Travel Protection

Travel Services

We've collaborated with a specialized travel agency committed to delivering tailored vacation planning, ensuring your entire Trek Travel journey is nothing short of unforgettable. Learn more about our Travel Services

Sharing the joy that comes with wow moments

Trek Travel guides are dedicated to making moments that last a lifetime, and we invite you to thank them with a trip gratuity. These are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this Discover trip, we recommend $2400-$2880 per guest and, of course, you may choose to give more if your guides made your trip an unforgettable experience.

Like everything else about your vacation, the Trek Travel team is here to make this experience easier for you. While local currency is preferred, you may also tip through the following options:

Via PayPal (please have this account set up in advance when possible) or with your guest services representative on the phone before or after the trip.

Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.

You cannot put a price on a wow . But you can show your thanks for an exceptional experience.

General FAQs

Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to the most common questions that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip. See FAQs

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Guaranteed trips.

Our trips are guaranteed to run once we have one confirmed booking on the trip.  Click here to view our full guarantee policy .

Trek Travel reserves the right to cancel trips with zero guests, therefore you must book with Trek Travel before making travel arrangements for the trip. We are not responsible for travel arrangements made prior to confirming your Trek Travel Trip. Select trips are not guaranteed.

Sold Out/Waitlist

This trip is currently sold out, but you may be added to the waitlist in the case of availability.

If a date is marked with Limited Availability, there are few spots left to book. We will secure additional rooms from our hotels before confirming your reservation.

Looking to travel with a small group? Ask our trip consultants about private trips and learn more .

What are your trip styles?

Classic - reserve:.

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discovor:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.

Looking to travel with a small group or looking for a custom date? Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735

What is the Difference?

Ultimate luxury:.

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of hotel levels, from Explorer to Luxury to Ultimate Luxury. Rest assured, no matter which level of hotel you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Road : 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).

Road : 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).

Road : 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel:  4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Classic - Discover:

Single occupancy.

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself

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Watch CBS News

Pennsylvania native nearing end of his cross-country run to fight human trafficking

By Jessica Guay

May 3, 2024 / 11:07 PM EDT / CBS Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — When people hit the pavement for the Pittsburgh marathon on Sunday, one man will run through the Steel City as he's nearing the finish line for his own marathon.

Bensalem, Pennsylvania, native and U.S. Capitol Police Officer Andrew Linder said he's going to be the first person to ever run across the country with a weighted vest on. But it's what he's running for that matters most.

Linder is on a 3,100-mile run while wearing a 15-pound weighted vest. He is chasing justice for human trafficking victims and survivors.

"I could wear a 1,000-pound weighted vest and it wouldn't equal what the victims have to go through on a daily basis. But this just resembles the weight that they constantly have to carry every single day," Linder said.

His cross-country marathon started at the Santa Monica Pier in California on March 1, and he'll reach the finish line in Central Park in New York on May 18.

While running through small towns and big cities, he's shining a light on human trafficking, which he said is a growing problem, especially on the internet.

"This happens in every single zip code in America and that's what I really want to bring light to. That everyone can be safer, and we all can bring more awareness to this problem," he said. 

"And with AI growing and evolving, it's tough when you're talking to someone online, like most people do nowadays, and it's hard to tell if that person is actually that person."

Linder runs roughly 40 miles a day, and he only has 400 miles to go. He's got several friends supporting him along the way, making sure he's fueled and fed every four miles.

He expects to pass through Pittsburgh during the Dicks Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon on Sunday.

"I have a couple of friends running it. I might have to get a couple of miles running through the town," Linder said.

The "Pier to Park" trek has taken him through snowstorms, desert heat, humidity, and more.

"This might suck for me right now, but at the end of the day, I get to go take a hot shower and lay in bed. The people I'm doing this for don't get that opportunity and that's what keeps me out here no matter what the conditions are," he said in a video while running in windy, snowy conditions.

Linder is going the distance for the non-profit organization Sisters Rising Worldwide. He said 90 percent of every dollar will go to victims and survivors. So far, he's raised over $76,000, with a goal of raising $250,000.

"Let's keep doing this thing, let's keep raising money for an amazing cause and doing the thing. Make somebody smile people," he said while running in a video.

• Pennsylvania
• Human Trafficking

Jessica Guay joined KDKA as a reporter in February 2021. Before joining KDKA, Jessica was a morning anchor and reporter at WJAC in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. She was also an anchor and reporter at WCHS in Charleston, West Virginia, and at WTOV in Steubenville, Ohio.

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2023 Trek Factory Racing XC team preview: Ready to strike

TFR XC has BIG goals after a roller coaster year of breakthroughs and close calls

2022 was a battle for Trek Factory Racing XC. In hindsight, the World Cup opener was a microcosm of the season. Illness spread through the team before the race. Evie Richards, Anton Cooper and Vlad Dascalu all missed either the short track or Olympic-distance events. Jolanda Neff sat out racing altogether. What had been a highly-anticipated opener at a beautiful new venue got off to an inauspicious start.

But despite being forced to play a bad hand, the squad made the most of the weekend. Richards took third in short track, and Dascalu took third in his XCO debut as a TFR rider. Riley Amos, also racing for the first time as a full-time TFR rider, placed fourth in the men’s U23 event. The team squeezed everything it could out of the event. Problem was, circumstances didn’t allow it to accomplish as much as it would have liked.

That theme prevailed throughout the year.

Charting a course for podiums!

To the good: Neff led the way with three World Cup victories, including a perfect weekend in Mont-Sainte-Anne , and a second-place finish at World Championships. Vlad Dascalu stood on eight World Cup podiums, finishing second three times. He and Anton Cooper combined to be named the “Best Men’s Team” at back-to-back races in Nové Město and Leogang . And Maddie Munro had a breakout season, winning the U23 U.S. National Championship before earning the first two U23 World Cup podiums of her career in Snowshoe (third) and Mont-Sainte-Anne (second). 

But there were also several instances of what-could-have-been . Richards, coming off a World Championship in 2021, was forced to sit for much of the season due to a nagging back injury. Dascalu fell achingly short of his first career World Cup win, often due to untimely crashes or mechanical misfortune. Amos, who won back-to-back U23 World Cup races in 2021, couldn’t get on track like he hoped, especially not after suffering a broken collarbone.

Watch out for Vlad Dascalu in 2023.

If 2022 was the year of scrapping and clawing and fighting against forces greater than themselves for every place in the pack, then 2023 will hopefully be a year of discovery and re-discovery. TFR XC’s riders — young and veteran — have all flashed the potential to win against the very best in the sport, starting with Gwendalyn Gibson, a new addition to TFR who busted out with a short track win in Snowshoe last year.

All they have to do is make the most of their training and savvy while avoiding injuries, equipment mishaps and bad luck of any sort. Simple? OK, not exactly in a sport as fickle as XC racing. But what better time for hope than now? When circumstances align, there may not be a better group of riders anywhere ready to pounce on their opportunities. 

We can promise you this: A TFR rider will drop your jaw at some point this season. We suggest you pay attention, lest you miss the moment.

Gwendalyn Gibson is TFR's newest rider.

5 stories to watch

Gwendalyn Gibson on the rise

Gibson teared up when talking to the Race Shop about her win in Snowshoe last July. She had broken her kneecap in May, and according to her initial prognosis, she shouldn’t have even been on the start line. But she returned more quickly than expected and proceeded to prove she belongs among the best riders in the world. 

“After a season with setbacks, it was really special for me to see all of the time and hard work finally come together,” Gibson said. “I think of it as a turning point in my career where I really began to believe in my capabilities. I’ll remember that day forever.”

Gibson, just 23 years old, has worlds of potential. She excelled in short track racing last year, taking podiums in Les Gets and Mont-Sainte-Anne in addition to her win, and wants to push herself to succeed at Olympic-distance events as well. Step 1 will be learning to believe in herself and her place within a hyper-competitive women’s field.

“Something I am always working to overcome is my anxiety associated with racing at this level,” Gibson said. “With a little more self belief, I think there will be no limit on what I can achieve.”

After a year of setbacks, Evie Richards is anxious to get the new season started.

Evie Richards getting her groove back

Richards called 2022 “the hardest season I think I’ve ever done” from a mental standpoint. Setbacks stacked upon setbacks, from illness in Brazil, to back problems, to a bout of Covid, all making her season in the rainbow jersey less magical than she had hoped. The highlight of her season was returning from three months off World Cup racing to see her teammates at World Championships in Les Gets.

“It was just a bit of a terrible year, and I really missed seeing everyone and being around the team,” Richards said. “So when I got to be back with everyone at Les Gets, it just made me so happy to see everyone’s faces. I just felt like I’d missed my family.”

When I got to be back with everyone at Les Gets, it just made me so happy to see everyone's faces. I just felt like I'd missed my family. - Evie Richards

Richards has a bright outlook on 2023. She wasn’t able to get up to full speed last season, but she still closed the season well, taking fifth in short track at World Championships and seventh in XCO in Val di Sole. This year, she has a new team around her — from coaches, to physios, to nutritionists — and she’s focused on being “the healthiest Evie I can possibly be.”

“I think it’s gonna be a really good year and a really exciting year for me,” Richards said. “Last year, I was struggling to finish races with the injury, so I don’t have to go too much faster to be better than I was last year, which is a great thing. But I definitely want to be miles better than I was, and be back up to that level where I was in 2021.”

Vlad's not messing around.

Vlad Dascalu World Cup watch

The one thing you need to know about Dascalu is that he never, ever gives up . He may be the fastest rider in the world who has yet to win a World Cup race. He came ridiculously close last year, taking second in Nové Město after making a move that dropped everyone except Tom Pidcock , who outsprinted Dascalu for the win, and seemingly making a winning attack in Andorra before an ill-timed mechanical. 

The next week, he suffered a bad crash in Snowshoe, and was unable to fully recover before the end of the season.

If you do the hard work and enjoy the process, when it’s time to race the body and mind are ready to give it all. - Vlad Dascalu

“I went from one of the best moments of my life and also probably the best shape of the season to not being able to ride my bike without a lot of pain,” Dascalu said. “Mentally and physically it was a tough moment.”

Dascalu figures to be a podium fixture once again. That first win feels inevitable, but when is still an open question. He certainly feels the pressure to finally break through, but his approach to every race remains the same. You can always count on Vlad to put his best self on display in every race.

“I really believe that the hard work always pays off,” Dascalu said. “So if I want to be the best version of myself it’s something you have to work on every day. If you do the hard work and enjoy the process, when it’s time to race the body and mind are ready to give it all.”

Maddie Munro is rocking the Stars and Stripes as the defending U23 U.S. national champion.

Riley Amos and Maddie Munro growing up before our eyes

The last two years have been transformative for the two young American riders. They have firmly established their presence at the front of their respective U23 fields. Both have won U.S. national champs — Amos in 2021, and Munro in 2022. And both have put themselves on multiple World Cup podiums, with Amos winning two races in 2021.  

The question now: Where do they go next?

The both displayed their mettle last season by bouncing from injuries — Amos broke his collarbone and missed nationals and two World Cups, and Munro suffered a concussion just before she was set to race in Albstadt. ( She documented her recovery process here .) Next up is polishing themselves as racers. For two 20-year-olds, that means improving their maturity and race savvy first and foremost.

Another year older, wiser and faster for Riley Amos.

“The last 2 years have felt a lot like learning the ropes — what it takes to be a part of a factory team, and race all year at the highest level of competition,” Amos said. “I learned my strengths, weaknesses, and now I feel I am ready to approach my last 2 years of U23 with a level head and with everything I need to perform. I guess we will just have to wait and see if that’s the case, but there has been a lot of really good signs so far.”

This offseason, Munro has been working with new coach Kristin Armstrong to up her technical skills. 

“Together we are going to target all levels of my skills to help me gain more confidence and ability on these World Cup courses,” Munro said. “Not to mention we will be working on my epic finish line wheelie.”

I will be even faster this year because I believe we have the best team on the circuit, filled with the most enthusiastic, supportive and hard working athletes, staff and fans. - Maddie Munro

Both Amos and Munro are grateful to be surrounded by a strong veteran core of riders. Amos recalled a training in Andorra with Dascalu and Neff as one of his favorite memories of the year. Munro said that the moral support she has received from the team has had a tangibly positive effect on race days.

“I will be even faster this year because I believe we have the best team on the circuit, filled with the most enthusiastic, supportive and hard working athletes, staff and fans,” Munro said. “Each rider adds something unique and uplifting to the team that will enhance our team atmosphere and give us all extra watts.”

No feeling like being back with your teammates.

A jam-packed schedule

The 2022 World Cup schedule was designed to produce a steady drip of racing. Events were never held more than two weeks in a row, and every month from April to September featured a World Cup race.

The 2023 schedule, by contrast, features two jam-packed racing blocks split by a long bout of down time. The first race takes place in May, not April, and early July to late August features no racing at all. But from June 9 to July 2, there will be three World Cup events in just 23 days. And beginning with World Championships in Glasgow from August 9-12, the team will take on a gauntlet of six World Cup-level events in nine weeks, closing with Mont-Sainte-Anne from Oct. 6-8.

The new schedule places even greater pressure on riders to stay healthy. With races so densely packed, an injury or bad bug could mean missing multiple races. 

That's my goal for this year. Do less, ride more. Worry less, smile more. Just enjoy what I'm doing and appreciate how lucky I am. - Jolanda Neff

Both Jolanda Neff and Anton Cooper understand the importance of taking care of their bodies. Neff seemed poised for a big result in Brazil after winning a warmup race by more than six minutes , but illness kept her off the World Cup start lines. Cooper caught Covid just before the Commonwealth Games in early August, and struggled during the closing stretch of World Championships and Val di Sole. Both are focused on being more mindful of the stress they place on themselves that can keep them from performing their best.

“I’m learning from past mistakes and becoming wiser each year,” Cooper said. “I’m working on overcoming some struggles at altitude races and also staying injury free and in good health, which will allow me to build form throughout the year.”

Anton Cooper (pictured last season) is poised to shake up the men's field.

One potential benefit of the new schedule: There won’t be much time to focus on anything but racing for long stretches of time. For a rider like Neff, whose success and popularity means a lot of demands on her time, having a dense slate of competitions could be a benefit.

“Sometimes I struggle to enjoy the simple things and just turn my brain off from going through my to-do lists and what I still have to do,” Neff said. “I would love nothing more than to just ride my bike and not worry about anything. That’s my goal for this year. Do less, ride more. Worry less, smile more. Just enjoy what I’m doing and appreciate how lucky I am.”

You won't find a tighter squad.

Schedule and how to watch

MTB World Cup broadcasts will be moving from Red Bull TV to Discovery this year. And though timing and streaming details are still being ironed out, you can expect to find the races within the Discovery family of streaming services. 

Round 1: Nové Město na Moravě, May 12-14 In a nutshell: World Cup staple with punchy climbs and flowy descents.

Round 2: Lenzerheide, June 9-11 In a nutshell: Unbelievable fan atmosphere at high altitude with fast racing.

Round 3: Leogang, June 16-18 In a nutshell: An all-around test — climbing, steep descents and tech.

Speeding towards the World Cup opener.

Round 4: Val di Sole, June 30-July 2 In a nutshell: A bruiser — hope you like roots and rock gardens.

World Championships: Glasgow, August 9-12 In a nutshell: An exciting new venue for many riders. Climbing, uneven descents, and a strong chance of MUD.

Round 5: Andorra, August 23-27 In a nutshell: An absolute lung buster, with long climbs at high altitude.

Round 6: Les Gets, September 7-17 In a nutshell: A speedy tech-fest in the French Alps.

Squad, from L to R: Vlad, Evie, Maddie, Riley, Gwendalyn, Jolanda. (Anton unable to make team camp, but terribly missed and there in spirit.)

Round 7: Snowshoe, September 28-October 1 In a nutshell: Another battering ram of a course where the American contingent will be going all out.

Round 8: Mont-Sainte-Anne, October 6-October 8 In a nutshell: Jolanda Neff’s favorite course! Super technical; SUPER fun.

You can follow the whole squad at all the races at the Trek Factory Racing XC Instagram page . Stay tuned over the coming weeks for individual rider catch-ups ahead of Round 1 of the World Cup in Nové Město. Also be sure to check out our cool new kits , our cool new paint and our cool new tire sponsor . 

Racing is just three months away. It’ll be here before you know it. Get. Hype.

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