Short-travel trail bikes have always been a big part of the fun-seeking UK riding scene, and the new Spider 275 from Intense looks to fit the bill nicely. A reworked lower VPP link allows for short (419mm) chainstays that should give a fun and snappy cornering feel.
A fairly long front
centre points at good stability at speed and the rear travel can be set to
115mm (4.5in) for poppy pedalling, or 130mm (5.1in) to match the front. Grease
ports should keep the frame running smoothly through UK weather too. This
entry-level Foundation Build complete bike weighs in at 13.9kg (30.7lb) and
comes with solid Shimano componentry, X-Fusion suspension and fast-rolling
Maxxis Ardent tyres.
Price 4500$