Jamis Dakar XCR Race (2012)

Big-block performance in a lightweight package—that’s been the Dakar XCR Race’s claim to fame. And this year’s version gets upgraded to an all-new mp4 XC suspension platform that delivers a slight rising leverage rate in the first 40% of travel and then is linear though the next 60mm of travel for a firm, responsive pedaling platform, perfect for the type of riding this bike was designed for.

The asymmetric chainstays deliver unmatched lateral and torsional stiffness that lets you crush the pedals and float over the terrain as the rear tire maintains almost Velcro-like contact with terra firma for killer traction, while the rigidity of the tapered head tube and steerer up front lets you strong-arm through ruts and off-cambers with finesse and control.