Q: I’m a high school freshman and racing in the So Cal Mountain Bike Racing League. I am looking to buy a 29er full-suspension mountain bike that is light enough for cross-country racing, yet durable enough for more technical singletrack. My budget is between $2,500 and $3,000. Suggestions?
-Hunter, who wants to haul


A: At the top of the list is the Specialized Epic Comp 29er, although it breaks your budget limit by $100. This bike is ideal for Southern California terrain and plenty tough enough to be used as your do-it-all trailbike. Next up is the Trek Fisher Collection HiFi Deluxe, which is slightly less a cross-country racer and more of a trailbike. It sells for $2620 and will be more than competitive on the high school racing circuit.

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