$1099 (Frame)

33 pounds

4-inch rear wheel travel

Avent, (619) 448-4508

Maxi test: June 2006

Highlights: The Arson is a mountaincross-specific design with the geometry and components to handle head-to-head race action over double-jumps and through high-speed corners. Getting the right combination of suspension design, geometry and components can be a tricky recipe. You don't want too much travel, or the bike will to be too heavy to accelerate quickly and it won't be agile. The Avent Arson is a four-inch-travel, single-pivot design clad with a slew of high-end componentry. Our test bike is an exact replica of the Avent Factory team Arson race bike.

Best quote: "The Arson is capable of ripping through dirt-jump trails and going big, but it is better suited for racecourse-style terrain."

Bottom line: With race-ready geometry and an elite component spec, the Arson hoists itself up into the mountaincross-world limelight. There aren't many manufacturers producing mountaincross-specific bikes, reasonably priced ones anyway, so Avent has a winner on their hands. Mountaincross is the most exciting event at any national race, but often hurts for racers compared to downhill. Perhaps the best thing about the Arson is it may lure some of Avent's loyal BMXers over to the fat-tire side.