The article discusses innovative trends in downhill mountain biking for 2026, including redesigned saddles for better cornering, increased fork travel up to 220mm, and the potential adoption of 32-inch front wheels, which could revolutionize bike handling and performance. It highlights ongoing experimentation by teams like AON Racing and the challenges related to wheel clearance and tire development.
The Made bike show 2025 in Portland showcased a diverse array of innovative bicycles, components, and accessories, highlighting advancements in bike technology, custom builds, and design, with notable exhibits including a 3D-printed bike, vintage classics, and cutting-edge gear, all set against a backdrop of hot weather and vibrant culture.
A potential new Colnago aero bike model, the Y1RS, has seemingly been leaked in a forum post, sparking discussions among cycling enthusiasts. The bike, which features a radical handlebar and headtube design, appears to address the lack of a true aero bike in Colnago's lineup, a point of criticism given Tadej Pogačar's success without one. Colnago has also teased a similar design on Instagram, with an official launch expected on December 9th.
Trek's industrial designer Kyle Neuser has developed a steel version of the Top Fuel mountain bike, named the PipeDream, using 4130 chromoly steel for the front triangle and aluminum for the rocker link and rear end. While lacking some features of the current Top Fuel, such as the geometry flip chip, it offers adjustable suspension kinematics and external cable routing. This prototype has garnered positive attention, suggesting a market for durable and affordable steel full-suspension bikes from major manufacturers.
Trek Bicycles has teased a new steel full-suspension mountain bike called PipeDream on Instagram, sparking interest and debate among cycling enthusiasts. While steel full-suspension bikes are not new, with brands like Starling Cycles and Chromag already in the market, Trek's entry into this niche highlights the growing trend and respect for steel as a frame material. Designed by Kyle Neuser, the PipeDream combines classic steel aesthetics with modern geometry and performance, prompting calls for it to be produced.
Raaw has unveiled the third iteration of its popular mountain bike, the Madonna V3. While the overall design remains similar to its predecessor, the V3 features several tweaks and refinements. The aluminum-framed bike offers 160mm of travel, external routing for easy servicing, and improved frame protection. It comes in five sizes with adjustable chainstay length and a slackened head angle. The suspension design has been updated for increased progression, resulting in a smoother ride. Testers have praised the Madonna V3 for its exceptional cornering ability, stability, and speed maintenance. The bike is available for order now, with delivery expected in February 2024.
The 2023 Enduro Bike Field Test featured eight diverse enduro machines with varying rear travel and frame materials, showcasing the multitude of design options available in the category. The bikes tested included the aluminum Nicolai Nucleon with a unique Lal drivetrain, the standout-looking Unno Burn and Pole Onni, the easy-to-ride Ibis HD6, the neutral-handling Nukeproof Giga, the updated Commencal Meta SX with a new dual-link design, the Trek Slash with a high pivot frame and mixed wheels, and the impressive Chromag Lowdown made of steel and aluminum. The testing took place in Whistler, BC, with Maxxis Control tires provided, and the riders included tech editors Dario DiGiulio, Mike Kazimer, Matt Beer, and Henry Quinney.
Engineer Sergii Gordieiev has created a wheelless bike that challenges traditional bike design by incorporating rotating components resembling tank mechanics. The bike features two sets of wheel belts positioned at unconventional angles, with linear metal components adorned with rubber treads. An additional gear connects the pedals to the highest point of the rear wheel for propulsion. While not reaching high speeds, the bike showcases innovative thinking and defies expectations in bike design.
