$1599
30.2 pounds
5 inches of rear wheel travel
KHS, (310) 632-7173
Full test: November 2007 (Click here to order this issue)

Highlights: We found the proven four-bar linkage of the KHS XC 604 with 4.2 inches of rear wheel travel to be ideal for trail riding conditions and would do our buddy well in his 24-hour race.

Best quote: "A well-balanced bike with spot-on geometry and a comfortable cockpit hides its weight, and the 604's performance hid the fact it's a few pounds heavier than pricier bikes in the same category."

Bottom line: From the first lap to the last, we felt the XC 604 pedaled, climbed, and descended like a bike almost twice its retail price, and featured reliable name brand components. The 604 is a budget-minded cross-country trail bike with premium trail bike performance.