Versatile and Burly
We gave GT top honors in our 2005 Buyer’s Guide, and the company’s underrated proprietary “Independent Drivetrain” suspension continues to impress. The design has been refined over the years; it’s lighter and more efficient. But the main benefit—isolating all suspension movement from pedaling forces—remains, as evidenced by the 5-inch-travel Sensor. “A surprise,” wrote one tester. “Reliable, fun, a great all-around bike.” Though the reinforced aluminum frame and burly parts spec (Shimano XT and a peerless Fox Float 32 RL fork) add a bit of heft, “the good suspension makes up for it,” said one tester. 28.4 lbs (medium);
Climbing: 3.7
Descending: 4.2