Jamis Dakar XC Sport (2013)

The Dakar XC Comp and Sport with our tried-and-true mp2 suspension prove that entry-level doesn’t have to mean beginner grade. These offer a real multi-link chassis that offers all the benefits of near-vertical wheel travel, suspension that remains supple and active under power and braking, and a solidly planted rear footprint when the going gets steep and you’ve gotta throw the power down.

This is the frame platform that’s won us numerous podiums, editorial accolades and Bike of the Year awards ever since we introduced our Dakar dualies back in 1994. It’s both time and race proven.

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 hydraulic disc brakes offered on both models lets you strong-arm the trail with finesse and control.