$2030
32.3 pounds
6-inch rear wheel travel
Marin, (800) 222-7557
Maxi test: September 2005

Highlights: There is no mistaking this flat-black, signature profile. The Marin Rock Springs is unique and striking. What you might miss, however, is that this is not a single-pivot-rear-suspension bike. The 2005 Rock Springs has a Quad-Link suspension system hidden under the swingarm. The Quad-Link swingarm instantly increases the bike's overall wheel base. Next, guided by the Instantaneous Pivot Center, the swingarm efficiently moves the rear wheel over the obstacle. Always in contact with the terrain, the wheel takes the fastest and shortest path and ultimately returns to rejoin the front end's forward momentum.

Best quote: "The rear wheel feels like it rolls over bumps instead of hitting them. The flatter edged the rock or root, the better the Marin feels."

Bottom line: Some of the Marin's components are cheap for a $2200 bike, but Marin put all their value into the frame and phenomenal suspension system. Cheap parts can be upgraded when they wear out, but bad suspension is forever. Marin put the value where it counts. The Rock Springs' rear suspension gets it done. It feels like the rear wheel is equipped with a brain that allows it to pick the path of least resistance over everything from flat-edge bumps to rocks and roots.