GT

Sensor Carbon Expert Complete Mountain Bike - 2014

GT decided it was time for something new in 2014, making the exciting decision to rework its entire line of mountain offerings with a new suspension design and high-end build kits. Ready for roosting berms and wild descending, the Sensor Carbon Expert Complete Mountain Bike makes an incredibly worthy companion for the trails — one that we'd imagine will be sticking around for the foreseeable future.

Using its advanced Force Optimized Construction (FOC), GT crafts a lightweight, responsive frame for the Sensor Carbon Expert. The Ultra version of GT's FOC carbon is a high-modulus weave of premium carbon that is strong enough to be layered almost as thinly as a pro-level road bike frame. After exhaustive testing of multiple directional carbon layups, GT settled on a design that balances rigidity, impact resilience, and low weight. Expect a frame that's confident and capable, with a moderate head tube and longer top tube to lend the frame stability on technical terrain without sacrificing nimble responsiveness when the lines get narrow.

Arguably the biggest change GT made for 2014 was its redesigned suspension, which requires a raised pivot point and relocated bottom bracket to accommodate the new Angle Optimized Suspension. These changes enhance the suspension's capabilities, allowing it to exhibit characteristics more similar to a 150mm-travel bike. The suspension works with a FOX rear shock, which affords plenty of bump-absorbing plushness as you tear down rocky descents, while a Maxle thru-axle keeps everything from feeling too soft by retaining stiffness in the frame.

You'll be treated to an admirable build kit with the Sensor Carbon Expert, including a Shimano XT drivetrain paired with a Race Face triple crank. (Won't tell if — like us — you take advantage of the granny gears on long, grueling climbs.) For dependable control when trail conditions get sketchy, GT includes Formula T1S hydraulic disc brakes paired with 180mm rotors and knobby Continental X-King tires wrapped around capable WTP ST i23 rims. You'll be able to make seatpost adjustments from the cockpit without slowing your pace with the KS LEV Integra dropper seatpost, on top of which GT mounts a Fizik Tundra2 mg saddle for all-day comfort.