$5174.99

28.2 pounds

3.9-inch rear wheel travel

Maxi test: February 2008 Click here for the back issue

Highlights: The Racer X is a best example of simplicity in design. Undecorated, large diameter tubes form the main frame. It takes a keen eye to notice that the tube are slightly flattened at both ends for better bite against the seat tube and machined head tube. The down tube is heavily ovalized on bi-axial planes to eliminate unwanted bottom bracket and head tube twisting. The swingarm is made from stout rectangular stays. Forged upper and lower swingarm yokes are lightweight and give surprising tire clearance.

Best quote: "The Titus four bar linkage still retains the perfectly configured pivoting dropouts. Even without platform technology the Titus suspension rides very well and remains completely active during hard pedaling and braking. And with a platform shock? Watch out!"

Bottom line: Make no mistake, the Titus Racer X Twenty Niner is a player. With perfect suspension and almost perfect handling, the big, beefy 29-inch tires simply eat up gnarly terrain. It's a great bike, but we know that it can be better. When there are 29-inch bikes with steeper head angles, shorter stays, and with quicker steering hardware, Titus needs to know that they can go even one step better with the Racer X Twenty Niner. Now that they have easily met the demand, it's time for them to exceed it.