Scott's Genius LT

Scott's Genius LT, $6799 (full build)

The all-mountain Genius LT, with 185 mm of rear travel and a claimed frame weight of just 6.2 pounds, claims one of the top travel-to-weight ratios, but the bike delivers in many more ways. A handlebar-mounted Twinloc lever can select between three modes: a lockout mode that simultaneously controls the fork and the rear, a traction mode offering 20 percent rear sag, and a full-open mode offering 30 percent rear sag. The bike's engineers have flipped the orientation of DT Swiss-made pull shock so the shock body doesn't move with the rear end, allowing the wheel to respond without the added weight.(www.bicycling.com)

Cannondale Jekyll

Cannondale Jekyll, $5,349 (Carbon 1 full build)

One of the central features of the redesigned Jekyll 90/150mm travel trail bike is its all-new Fox DYAD-RT2 shock that switches between two modes using a handelbar-mounted switch. “Elevate” mode makes climbs quick and efficient, reducing sag by 40 percent for a more efficient climb. “Flow” mode turns the bike into a plush and capable descender by lowering bottom bracket height. Using military-regulated BallisTec carbon, Specialized reduced the frame weight to 2,060 grams, with promises of much greater durability than conventional carbon. Aluminum models come in at a claimed weight of 150 to 200 grams heavier than the carbon models.(www.bicycling.com)

25th Anniversary Yeti 575

25th Anniversary Yeti 575, $2,999 (frame kit)

Yeti overhauled its 575 trail bike for its 25th anniversary. Besides the retro yellow-turquoise paint job, Yeti modified the 5.75-inch rear-travel frame so that it could accommodate longer-travel forks while not changing the overall nimble feel and ride of the bike. Yeti opted for beefier chainstays, which have slightly increased the weight of the frame to over seven pounds. The main pivot area is stiffer, with more clearance, but these changes mean riders need a direct mount for the front derailleur. The frame updates aren't limited to the anniversary edition; the changes have been made across the entire 575 line. (www.bicycling.com)

Specialized's 2011 Demo 8 frame

Specialized Demo 8, $2,500 (frame)

Developed with input from Sam Hill and Brendan Fairclough, Specialized's 2011 Demo 8 frame helps fast riders go faster and gives slow riders greater confidence and stability. Changes include lowering the bottom bracket, adjusting frame geometry and shaving off three-quarters of a pound. A shorter 112mm head tube (down from 120mm) provides a solid ride. With an increase of rear end hub spacing to 150mm (up from 135mm), riders can use a wider selection of hub and wheel options. (www.bicycling.com)