The MJ Rating System Excellent: Great: Good: Fair: Junk:

EDITOR'S PICK Santa Cruz Blur LT An updated version of the original design, the LT (which stands for "long travel") rides more aggressively than its predecessor. That's right: It tackles bigger bumps better. A slight tweak in the frame geometry makes the 27.2-lb bike's steering more stable, too. But if you prefer a lighter climbing orientation, go with the XC -- the Blur's feathery, slightly shorter-travel iteration. [from $2,468, $4,466 as shown; santacruzbicycles.com] RATING:
VERSATILITY Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Pro Specialized's FSR technology has been around for more than 15 years, and it shows in the top-of-the-line Stumpjumper's refined, efficient ride. Though this bike leans toward fast and efficient rather than bold and bumpy, there's really no challenge it won't handle. The 27.5-lb bike includes the Brain Fade shock, which provides automatic suspension adjustments -- a welcome asset on variable terrain. [$3,800; specialized.com] RATING:
COMFORT Cannondale Rush 2000 This is a well-mannered bike designed for long-haul riding -- epic Sunday jaunts or 24-hour races -- that's also perfectly at home on just about any type of terrain. The bike has Cannondale's unique one-sided lefty fork, which smooths the bumps -- and starts conversations. Stable frame geometry makes this 27.1-lb bike a supremely rideable, comfortable package. [$3,499; cannondale.com] RATING:
RACING Giant Stumpjumper Anthem 2 High-speed riders who want good bump absorption and high pedaling efficiency should pick the Anthem 2. Short travel (3.5") means it isn't meant for the big hits, but riders will love the way this svelte 26.3-lb rig's suspension works when you need it to, yet doesn't rob energy when climbing or braking. [$2,300; www.giantbicycles.com] RATING:
HARDCORE Maverick ML7 Designed by Paul Turner (who invented RockShox, the component that started the suspension revolution), the 28.1-lb ML7 works well on your local cruising trail but really begins to deliver when the hits get gnarly in the backcountry. The extra-stiff, long-travel front fork takes steep turns and sucks up clatter from even the biggest rocks. [$4,000; maverickbike.com] RATING:

(April 2006)