I’m a Seattle-based gravel biker looking to get into MTBing this summer. I tried a few disciplines last summer (DH at Stevens, rental trail bike at Galbraith, and my gravel bike at Tolt-MacDonald). I learned that DH is fun but not for me, and that while I love my gravel bike, I’d like some suspension and slack.
Based on what I read, downcountry / short travel bikes interest me the most. I like moving quickly and efficiently, and I’m not interested in big jumps or drops. However, most advice I hear is that a trail bike is most appropriate for most riders, especially beginners. I also hear that the rocky and rooty trails of Washington aren’t XC-friendly and that I’d *probably* be happier on a more relaxed trail bike with a bit longer suspension. I don’t want to get swayed by good marketing only to find out that I should have followed the general advice for a trail bike.
As a happy Grizl owner, I’m partial to Canyon. Their Trail Sale is also mighty attractive right now. I’m currently torn between the XC/downcountry-ish [Lux Trail CF6](https://www.canyon.com/en-us/mountain-bikes/cross-country-bikes/lux-trail/cf/lux-trail-cf-6/3513.html?dwvar_3513_pv_rahmenfarbe=M138_P01) (or [7](https://www.canyon.com/en-us/mountain-bikes/cross-country-bikes/lux-trail/cf/lux-trail-cf-7/3442.html?dwvar_3442_pv_rahmenfarbe=M138_P01), since it’s the same price right now!) and [Neuron CF 8](https://www.canyon.com/en-us/mountain-bikes/trail-bikes/neuron/cf/neuron-cf-8/3170.html?dwvar_3170_pv_rahmenfarbe=SR%2FBK). I’m also considering the aluminum [Neuron AL 6](https://www.canyon.com/en-us/mountain-bikes/trail-bikes/neuron/al/neuron-6/4033.html?dwvar_4033_pv_rahmenfarbe=WH%2FBK), but curious on peoples’ thoughts on that as well. I enjoyed upgrading to carbon on my gravel bike, but not sure how it well it translates on a bike with suspension. Thank you!!
by llamasweater