Jamis DAKAR XCT PRO (2012)

The XCT Pro is a genuine piece of rocket science, with a main triangle that’s a Dyad Ultra lay-up of M30 and T700 high and mid-modulus carbon fibers with a tapered head tube for steering precision. Out back, our mp4 Trail system offers a progressive leverage rate so the rear shock can be tuned more linearly and pumped to lower air pressures for a smoother, more plush ride without bottoming.

Every XCT delivers 5 inches of plush, active travel for plenty of stick-to-the-trail traction and superb pedaling efficiency. Factor in the stout 135x12 mm Maxle rear and 15mm thru-axle front thru-axle and you’ve got a lightweight trail bike that tracks as well as it hooks up. And that makes for one blazing fast ride.