<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>pivot les fat Archives - Singletracks Mountain Bike News</title> <atom:link href="https://www.singletracks.com/tag/pivot-les-fat/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/tag/pivot-les-fat/</link> <description>Mountain bike news, bike reviews, trail information, and tips for better riding.</description> <lastBuildDate>Fri, 05 Jan 2024 20:33:16 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1</generator> <image> <url>https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/cropped-singletracks_gradient-32x32.jpg</url> <title>pivot les fat Archives - Singletracks Mountain Bike News</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/tag/pivot-les-fat/</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <item> <title>Readers’ Choice: The 10 Best Fat Bikes</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/readers-choice-10-best-fat-bikes-2017/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/readers-choice-10-best-fat-bikes-2017/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Greg Heil]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 13 Nov 2017 11:05:33 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[2017]]></category> <category><![CDATA[2017 gear survey]]></category> <category><![CDATA[beargrease]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bikes]]></category> <category><![CDATA[blizzard]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bucksaw]]></category> <category><![CDATA[buyers guide]]></category> <category><![CDATA[farley]]></category> <category><![CDATA[farley ex]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fat Bike]]></category> <category><![CDATA[fat bikers]]></category> <category><![CDATA[fat biking]]></category> <category><![CDATA[fatboy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[framed]]></category> <category><![CDATA[framed minnesota]]></category> <category><![CDATA[ice cream truck]]></category> <category><![CDATA[LES fat]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mukluk]]></category> <category><![CDATA[pivot les fat]]></category> <category><![CDATA[pugsley]]></category> <category><![CDATA[readers choice]]></category> <category><![CDATA[rocky mountain blizzard]]></category> <category><![CDATA[roundup]]></category> <category><![CDATA[salsa]]></category> <category><![CDATA[salsa beargrease]]></category> <category><![CDATA[salsa bucksaw]]></category> <category><![CDATA[salsa mukluk]]></category> <category><![CDATA[sand]]></category> <category><![CDATA[snow]]></category> <category><![CDATA[specialized fatboy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[surly]]></category> <category><![CDATA[surly ice cream truck]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Surly Pugsley]]></category> <category><![CDATA[survey results]]></category> <category><![CDATA[trek farley]]></category> <category><![CDATA[winter]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=219300</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>These are the 10 best fat bikes according to a survey of Singletracks readers. Top fat bikes include the Trek Farley, Specialized Fatboy, Salsa Beargrease, and more.</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/readers-choice-10-best-fat-bikes-2017/">Readers’ Choice: The 10 Best Fat Bikes</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-228088" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/10_best_fatbikes_2017.jpg" alt="10 best fat bikes 2017" width="1200" height="730" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/10_best_fatbikes_2017.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/10_best_fatbikes_2017-620x377.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/10_best_fatbikes_2017-768x467.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> <p>The fat bike movement has largely settled into its niche within the mountain bike market. Some riders will continue to be dedicated fat bike riders, others will only ride fat during the winter, and still others will never ride anything wider than a 2.5″ tire. While the dedicated fat bike brands continue to push for improvement, not much has changed in fat bike tech over the past year. Providing further evidence of this stagnation (or is it stabilization?) in the fat bike market is our readers’ choice survey data for 2017, related here, which reads remarkably like <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-gear/the-10-best-fat-bikes-of-2016-readers-choice-awards/">the 2016 list</a>.</p> <p>One interesting takeaway from our survey data this year is that many readers apparently don’t know what a fat bike is–or at least, how it differs from a plus bike. The definition of this niche is only obfuscated by Specialized obstinately referring to their 27.5+ bikes as “6Fattie” — the only brand in the industry to use that confusing naming convention. For the purposes of this list, we’re defining fat bikes as any bike with a tire measuring 3.8″ or wider.</p> <h2>10. (tie) <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Fat-Bikes/Framed-Minnesota_11181">Framed Minnesota</a></h2> <span class="st_caption_shortcode_fix"><figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/framed-minnesota-1p0-fat-bike-yellow-black-black-16-1-1024x614.jpg"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-227713" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/framed-minnesota-1p0-fat-bike-yellow-black-black-16-1-1024x614.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="614" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/framed-minnesota-1p0-fat-bike-yellow-black-black-16-1-1024x614.jpg 1024w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/framed-minnesota-1p0-fat-bike-yellow-black-black-16-1-1024x614-620x372.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/framed-minnesota-1p0-fat-bike-yellow-black-black-16-1-1024x614-768x461.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a><figcaption>The new 2018 Framed Minnesota 1.0</figcaption></figure></span> <p>The <a href="http://www.framedbikes.com/minnesota-alloy-fat-bikes/">Framed Minnesota</a> is new to this readers’ choice list for 2017. Framed has made a name for themselves by selling affordable fat and plus bikes, mostly direct to consumer (although they are available in some shops). They’re a staple on our Budget Buyer’s Guide lists–both for <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-gear/fat-bike-buyers-guide-budget-models/">fat bikes</a> and <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-gear/buyers-guide-budget-hardtail-mountain-bikes/">hardtails in general</a>–due to the high value per dollar ratio that they offer.</p> <p>The Minnesota line is a dedicated alloy fat bike line. The Alaskan serves as Framed’s carbon fat bike line–also at great prices. The lowest end of the Minnesota line is a fully rigid aluminum bike with a basic SRAM X4 1×9 drivetrain, Avid BB5 disc brakes, and 26″x4″ tires. Prices start at just $600, which is a very low barrier to entry.</p> <p>While many intermediate models exist, the top-tier Minnesotas offer either a RockShox Bluto suspension fork, RST suspension fork, or a rigid carbon fork, with a SRAM X7 2×10 drivetrain and Avid BB7 disc brakes. The tires (and axles) also get a bump up in size, to 26″x4.8″</p> <p>[see_also id=’37573′]</p> <p><strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Travel: 100mm or 0mm front / 0mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 26″x4″ or 26″x4.8″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 70°</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 466mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Aluminum</li> <li>Pricing: $599-$1,149</li> </ul> <p><a class="btn btn-info btn-lg" href="https://www.amazon.com/Framed-Minnesota-Bike-Silver-Blue/dp/B01G96GQ2O?psc=1&SubscriptionId=AKIAIKZYP7P6PEFUM3UQ&tag=stracks-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B01G96GQ2O">Buy Framed Minnesota 2.0 Fat Bike on Amazon.com</a></p> <h2>10. (tie) <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Fat-Bikes/Trek-Farley-EX-98_14486">Trek Farley EX</a></h2> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/trek-farley-ex.jpg"><img decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-227714" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/trek-farley-ex-1200x789.jpg" alt="" width="1170" height="769" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/trek-farley-ex-1200x789.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/trek-farley-ex-620x407.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/trek-farley-ex-768x505.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/trek-farley-ex.jpg 1359w" sizes="(max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></a></p> <p>The integration of front and rear suspension with full-fat tires is one bright spot of innovation in the fat bike market over the past two years, but it still isn’t widespread by any means. That said, the Farley EX made this list of its own accord this year, without having to be included as a subset of Trek’s standard Farley like it did in 2016.</p> <p>The top-tier <a href="https://www.trekbikes.com/us/en_US/bikes/mountain-bikes/fat-bikes/farley-ex/farley-ex-9-8/p/1135600-2018/?colorCode=grey">Trek Farley EX 9.8</a> now sports the new Manitou Mastodon fork for 2018 and a Fox Float Evol shock in the rear, providing 120mm of suspension travel front and rear. The carbon frame holds 27.5″x4.0″ fat bike tires. A new SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed group covers the drivetrain, with SRAM Guide RS Hydraulic disc brakes providing the stopping power. Despite the carbon frame and relatively high-end components, the complete bike weight is 35 pounds–full suspension + fat tires = heavy!</p> <p><strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Travel: 120mm front / 120mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 27.5″x4.0″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 68.8°</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 443mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Aluminum or Carbon</li> <li>Pricing: $3,499-$5,499</li> </ul> <p>[see_also id=’187513′]</p> <h2>9. <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Fat-Bikes/Pivot-LES-Fat-Bike_11826">Pivot LES Fat</a></h2> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/pivot-les-fat.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-227715" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/pivot-les-fat.jpg" alt="" width="1139" height="680" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/pivot-les-fat.jpg 1139w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/pivot-les-fat-620x370.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/pivot-les-fat-768x459.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1139px) 100vw, 1139px" /></a></p> <p>The name of the game is “versatility” when it comes to the <a href="http://www.pivotcycles.com/bike/les-fat/">Pivot LES Fat</a>. This fat bike is specifically designed to be compatible with every single plus-size or fat-tire wheel+tire size on the market, thanks to the “patented Swinger II dropout system.” This dropout system “[enables] you to run almost any available plus or fat bike wheelsize, easily switch between singlespeed and geared drivetrains, and choose your chainstay length based on conditions and desired handling characteristics,” according to <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/blog/tag/pivot-cycles/">Pivot</a>.</p> <p>As for suspension, the LES Fat is available with both rigid and suspension fork options.</p> <p>The Pivot Les Fat tied for 7th place in 2016 with the Salsa Mukluk, but the Mukluk surprisingly pulled away substantially in the votes this year. The Les Fat’s most expensive model dropped $200 off the MSRP for 2017/18.</p> <p><strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Travel: 100mm or 0mm front / 0mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: All plus or fat tire sizes, up to 26″x4.8″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 69-69.75°, depending on tire size</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 437mm-451mm, depending on tire size</li> <li>Frame Material: Carbon</li> <li>Pricing: $3,499-$5,299</li> </ul> <p>[see_also id=’57900′]</p> <p> </p> <h2>8. <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Fat-Bikes/Rocky-Mountain-Blizzard_11272">Rocky Mountain Blizzard</a></h2> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/rocky-blizzard.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-227716" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/rocky-blizzard-1200x714.jpg" alt="" width="1170" height="696" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/rocky-blizzard-1200x714.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/rocky-blizzard-620x369.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/rocky-blizzard-768x457.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></a></p> <p>With the introduction of the <a href="http://www.bikes.com/en/bikes/blizzard/2017">Blizzard</a>, Rocky Mountain focused on bringing trail bike geometry and handling to the fat bike market, and if the high praise this bike receives is any indication, they’ve succeeded! Rocky Mountain has definitely played on their freeride heritage with the marketing of the Blizzard, with films such as “<a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-videos/watch-2-fat-2-furious-a-fat-bike-freeride-film/">2 Fat and 2 Furious</a>.”</p> <p>The Blizzard line has been simplified for 2017/18, with the three remaining models only offering a rigid aluminum frame, with no suspension fork option. The headtube is still tapered though, making it compatible with a Bluto or Mastodon for an aftermarket upgrade. The geometry also changed slightly for this year, with the head tube 0.6° slacker and the chainstays 15mm shorter. The tires are still max-fat 26″x4.8″–specifically, Maxxis FBF and FBR treads. The drivetrain is a Shimano Deore 1×11 on the top-tier $1,899 model, with Shimano M425 brakes.</p> <p>It will be interesting to see if this significant change to the Blizzard line pays off for Rocky, as the model gained substantial ground on our list this year–up from spot #10 in 2016 to #8 in 2017. It appears that Rocky is doubling down on the more affordable, fully-rigid alloy models–and they aren’t the only brand we’ve seen make a similar change in their fat bike line.</p> <p><strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Travel: 0mm front / 0mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 26″x4.8″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 67°</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 440mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Aluminum</li> <li>Pricing: $1,049-$1,899</li> </ul> <p>[see_also id=’183411′]</p> <h2>7. <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Fat-Bikes/Salsa-Mukluk_6094">Salsa Mukluk</a></h2> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Mukluk_Carbon_XO1_Eagle-01.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-227718" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Mukluk_Carbon_XO1_Eagle-01.jpg" alt="" width="1140" height="641" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Mukluk_Carbon_XO1_Eagle-01.jpg 1140w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Mukluk_Carbon_XO1_Eagle-01-620x349.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Mukluk_Carbon_XO1_Eagle-01-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1140px) 100vw, 1140px" /></a></p> <p>The <a href="http://salsacycles.com/bikes/mukluk">Salsa Mukluk</a> was one of the earliest fat bike models on the market, yet it manages to maintain the #7 spot on our list while the Pivot Les Fat (tied with the Mukluk in 2016) slid several places. It’s possible that the introduction of carbon Mukluk models for MY17 has helped boost the popularity of this longtime fatty.</p> <p>For 2017/18 the tire sizes have increased to a max-fat 26″x4.8″, and the top-tier model has gotten a few hundred dollars more expensive with the addition of a SRAM Eagle X01 12-speed drivetrain. The price for the most affordable model has remained the same.</p> <p><strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Travel: 0mm front / 0mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 26″x4.8″ tires</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 69°</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 432-449mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Aluminum or Carbon</li> <li>Pricing: $1,799-$5,399</li> </ul> <p><a class="btn btn-info btn-lg" href="https://aventuron.com/products/salsa-mukluk-deore-1x-fat-bike?variant=11043566616620&avad=9603_e139b7849&utm_source=www.singletracks.com&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=Avantlink&cid=aff_www.singletracks.com">Buy Salsa Mukluk Deore 1x Fat Bike on Aventuron</a></p> <h2>6. <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Hardtail-bikes/Surly-Pugsley-_2462">Surly Pugsley</a></h2> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/bk3181.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-227719" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/bk3181.jpg" alt="" width="510" height="292" /></a></p> <p>The <a href="http://surlybikes.com/bikes/pugsley">Surly Pugsley</a> is one of the OG fat bikes. While very little has changed on the Pugsley over the years, this 4-inch fat bike model is still going strong and has a very loyal following, as the #6 ranking on this list shows… although it did slide a position from 2016 to ’17.</p> <p>Despite its apparent popularity, the classic geometry found on this fat bike leaves much to be desired. More recent fat bikes, such as the Ice Cream Truck, have adopted trail bike-inspired geometry, offering a much-improved ride quality out on the trail.<br /> [see_also id=’34394′]<br /> <strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Travel: 0mm front / 0mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 26″x3.8″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 70°</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 448mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Steel</li> <li>Pricing: $1,700</li> </ul> <p><a class="btn btn-info btn-lg" href="https://aventuron.com/products/surly-pugsley?variant=10483022266412&avad=9603_d139a764d&utm_source=www.singletracks.com&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=Avantlink&cid=aff_www.singletracks.com">Buy Surly Pugsley Fat Bike on Aventuron</a></p> <h2>5. <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Fat-Bikes/Surly-Ice-Cream-Truck_11204">Surly Ice Cream Truck</a></h2> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/surly-ice-cream-truck.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-227720" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/surly-ice-cream-truck.jpg" alt="" width="629" height="345" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/surly-ice-cream-truck.jpg 629w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/surly-ice-cream-truck-620x340.jpg 620w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 629px) 100vw, 629px" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://surlybikes.com/bikes/ice_cream">Surly’s Ice Cream Truck</a> brings modern trail bike geometry to the 5-inch fat bike portion of their lineup, with a 68-degree headtube angle. You could consider the Ice Cream Truck a revamped Moonlander. While the steel frame and fork are held over from the Moonlander, the handling is radically different thanks to the updated geo. The Ice Cream Truck also offers the latest 197mm rear hub spacing.</p> <p>You’ve probably been wondering: if there are two new bikes on this list tied for 10th place, what dropped off the list from 2016 to ’17? The answer is the Surly Moonlander, the Ice Cream Truck’s predecessor. It appears that most riders are finally realizing that most original fat bike geometry rode like crap, and the modern geo found on bikes like the Ice Cream Truck is radically more trail-friendly. The Ice Cream Truck also gained a spot on this list from last year, swapping places with the Pugsley.<br /> [see_also id=’49707′]<br /> <strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Travel: 0mm front / 0mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 26″x4.8″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 68°</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 450mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Steel</li> <li>Pricing: $2,400-$2,700</li> </ul> <p><a class="btn btn-info btn-lg" href="https://aventuron.com/products/surly-ice-cream-truck?variant=10961898012716&avad=9603_a139cbca9&utm_source=www.singletracks.com&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=Avantlink&cid=aff_www.singletracks.com">Buy Surly Ice Cream Truck on Aventuron</a></p> <h2>4. <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Fat-Bikes/Salsa-Bucksaw_11196">Salsa Bucksaw</a></h2> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/salsa-bucksaw.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-227721" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/salsa-bucksaw.jpg" alt="" width="1025" height="608" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/salsa-bucksaw.jpg 1025w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/salsa-bucksaw-620x368.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/salsa-bucksaw-768x456.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1025px) 100vw, 1025px" /></a></p> <p>The <a href="http://salsacycles.com/bikes/bucksaw">Salsa Bucksaw</a> is notable as the first widely-distributed full suspension fat bike on the market, and then subsequently the first carbon full suspension fat bike. It’s been widely-acclaimed for its incredible versatility. As I concluded in <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-reviews/test-ride-review-salsa-bucksaw-carbon/">my own test ride review of the Bucksaw</a>: “If you want to ride all year round, in every condition imaginable, and you truly are looking for the one-quiver bike, there is no more capable mountain bike than the Bucksaw and its full-suspension fat bike brethren.”</p> <p>The Bucksaw was voted the #1 fat bike back in our 2015 survey.</p> <p>The top-tier Bucksaw is still running an 11-speed drivetrain and a Bluto suspension fork, indicating it could be due for a revamp soon. However, it manages to weigh much less than its competitor, the Trek Farley — just 31lbs 7oz in a size medium.</p> <div id="wp_content_article" class="st_article_class"> <p>[see_also id=’185197′]</p> <p><strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Travel: 100mm front / 100mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 26″x4″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 67.7°</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 444mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Carbon and Aluminum</li> <li>Pricing: $3,499-$5,999</li> </ul> </div> <p><a class="btn btn-info btn-lg" href="https://www.rei.com/product/111213/salsa-bucksaw-gx1-fat-bike-2017?cm_mmc=aff_AL-_-7763-_-9603-_-NA&avad=9603_d139a77a1&CA_6C15C=120217890003891940">Buy Salsa Bucksaw on REI.com</a></p> <h2>3. <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Fat-Bikes/Salsa-Beargrease_11138">Salsa Beargrease</a></h2> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Beargrease_Carbon_GX_Eagle_27.5-01.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-227723" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Beargrease_Carbon_GX_Eagle_27.5-01.jpg" alt="" width="1140" height="641" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Beargrease_Carbon_GX_Eagle_27.5-01.jpg 1140w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Beargrease_Carbon_GX_Eagle_27.5-01-620x349.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Beargrease_Carbon_GX_Eagle_27.5-01-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1140px) 100vw, 1140px" /></a></p> <p>One of the first models to challenge the paradigm of fat bikes as heavy and cumbersome, the <a href="http://salsacycles.com/bikes/beargrease">Beargrease</a> is a carbon fat bike with a racey geo. While the Mukluk might be longer-running in Salsa’s line than the Beargrease, and the Bucksaw has squish both front and back, thanks to the ultra-low weights achievable on the Beargrease and the proven geometry, it’s obviously a fan favorite in the fat bike world. It scores the #3 spot on our list for the second year in a row and was also voted the #1 fat bike in our 2014 survey.</p> <p>For 2017/18 the prices on the models have increased, but mainly as a result of some major upgrades. Salsa is speccing improved build kits, has changed the wheel size from 26″x4″ to the new 27.5″x4″ size, and is now <em>only </em>selling the Beargrease in carbon. 27.5 fat is becoming widely accepted as a faster-rolling fat bike standard, and Salsa is now categorizing their Beargrease for “Groomed Racing.”</p> <p>The top-tier Beargrease model offers a SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain, SRAM Level T brakes, HED Big Deal carbon rims, and Maxxis Minion FBF and FBR 27.5″x3.8″ tires.</p> <p><strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Travel: 0mm front / 0mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 27.5″x3.8″ stock, changeable to 26″x4.0″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 68.5°</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 440mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Carbon</li> <li>Pricing: $1,999-$4,699</li> </ul> <p><a class="btn btn-info btn-lg" href="https://www.rei.com/product/136721/salsa-beargrease-carbon-gx-eagle-fat-bike?cm_mmc=aff_AL-_-7763-_-9603-_-NA&avad=9603_b139c563d&CA_6C15C=120217890005221706">Buy Salsa Beargrease on REI.com</a></p> <h2>2. <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Fat-Bikes/Specialized-Fatboy_7660">Specialized Fatboy</a></h2> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/specialized-fat-boy.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-227727" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/specialized-fat-boy.jpg" alt="" width="770" height="426" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/specialized-fat-boy.jpg 770w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/specialized-fat-boy-620x343.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/specialized-fat-boy-768x425.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px" /></a></p> <p>The Specialized Fatboy and the Trek Farley swapped places from last year, with the Fatboy claiming a #2 ranking for 2017. Last year it claimed the coveted #1 spot on our list, and it also ranked highly before: #2 in 2015 and #3 in 2014.</p> <p>The Fatboy appears largely unchanged from last year, with the more affordable models offering 26″x4.6″ tires, the higher-end models offering 26″x4.0″ tires, and none of the bikes offering a suspension fork. The top-tier <a href="https://www.specialized.com/us/en/men/bikes/mountain/sworks-fatboy/128966">S-Works Fatboy</a> features a full carbon frame and fork, HED Big Deal carbon rims, Fast Trak Control 26″x4.0″ tires, a SRAM XX1 11-speed drivetrain, and SRAM Guide RS carbon brakes. The 11-speed XX1 drivetrain seems strange on a $7,000 bike in late 2017–I’d wager the entire Fatboy line is due for a revamp soon, and not only will we see drivetrains move to 12-speed, but we could see some wheel/tire size and suspension changes as well.</p> <p><strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Travel: 0mm front / 0mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 26″x4″ in most models; 26″x4.6″ in some models</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 70.5°</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 455mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Aluminum or Carbon</li> <li>Pricing: $1,400-$7,000</li> </ul> <p>[see_also id=’60584′]</p> <h2>1. <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Fat-Bikes/Trek-Farley_7792">Trek Farley</a></h2> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/trek-farley-suspension.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-227728" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/trek-farley-suspension-1200x778.jpg" alt="" width="1170" height="759" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/trek-farley-suspension-1200x778.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/trek-farley-suspension-620x402.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/trek-farley-suspension-768x498.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/trek-farley-suspension.jpg 1350w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></a></p> <p>Despite removing the votes from the Farley EX and categorizing the full suspension model as its own bike, Trek’s Farley <em>still</em> advanced in the rankings for 2017, passing the Specialized Fatboy handily to claim the #1 spot.</p> <p>Trek pioneered a new tire size with the introduction of their race-oriented <a href="http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en_US/bikes/mountain-bikes/fat-bikes/c/B509/">Farley fat bike</a>: 27.5″x4″. Since then, the 27.5″x4″ tire size has been adopted by other brands, primarily for use on other race-oriented fatties, as I mentioned in the write-up for the Beargrease. However, some models in the Farley are also compatible with wider 5-inch tires on 26″ rims, and all of the newest Farley models come with 27.5″x4.5″ tires.</p> <p>New for 2017/18 is a $2,399 MSRP Farley specced with a Manitou Mastodon 34 Comp suspension fork up front. Last year, all of the Farley models were rigid. While the Mastodon comes stock in just an 80mm-travel length, the fork is adjustable up to either 100 or 120mm of travel, depending on the model of the Comp. The drivetrain on this bike is a SRAM NX 11-speed setup and the brakes are SRAM Level T hydraulic disc brakes.</p> <p>While I mentioned that the fat bike market appears to be stagnating or stabilizing, depending on how you look at it, like all mountain bikes, today’s fat bikes are still better than ever. The introduction of the Manitou Mastodon may seem minor, but as it’s prevalence on this list just months after its release indicates, the Mastodon rides radically better than the Bluto. My own test of the Mastodon has thus far confirmed this widespread opinion. Access to an even better suspension fork option will only open the door to more suspended fat bikes that ride better than ever before.</p> <p><strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Travel: 80mm or 0mm front / 0mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 27.5″x4.5″, max of 26″x5.0″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 69°</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 440mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Aluminum or Carbon</li> <li>Pricing: $1,729-$4,799</li> </ul> <p>[see_also id=’38203′]</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/readers-choice-10-best-fat-bikes-2017/">Readers’ Choice: The 10 Best Fat Bikes</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/readers-choice-10-best-fat-bikes-2017/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>3</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>The 10 Best Fat Bikes of 2016 – Readers’ Choice Awards</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/the-10-best-fat-bikes-of-2016-readers-choice-awards/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/the-10-best-fat-bikes-of-2016-readers-choice-awards/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Greg Heil]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 14 Nov 2016 11:05:50 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[blizzard]]></category> <category><![CDATA[farley]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fat Bike]]></category> <category><![CDATA[fat bikes]]></category> <category><![CDATA[fat biking]]></category> <category><![CDATA[fat tire]]></category> <category><![CDATA[fat tire bike]]></category> <category><![CDATA[fatboy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[full-suspension]]></category> <category><![CDATA[moonlander]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mukluk]]></category> <category><![CDATA[pivot]]></category> <category><![CDATA[pivot les fat]]></category> <category><![CDATA[readers choice]]></category> <category><![CDATA[readers' choice awards]]></category> <category><![CDATA[rocky mountain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[salsa]]></category> <category><![CDATA[salsa beargrease]]></category> <category><![CDATA[salsa bucksaw]]></category> <category><![CDATA[snow]]></category> <category><![CDATA[specialized]]></category> <category><![CDATA[specialized fatboy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[surly]]></category> <category><![CDATA[surly ice cream truck]]></category> <category><![CDATA[survey]]></category> <category><![CDATA[survey results]]></category> <category><![CDATA[trek farley]]></category> <category><![CDATA[winter]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=198079</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Singletracks readers choose their favorite fat bikes for 2016.</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/the-10-best-fat-bikes-of-2016-readers-choice-awards/">The 10 Best Fat Bikes of 2016 – Readers’ Choice Awards</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/10_best_fat_bikes.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="800" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/10_best_fat_bikes-1200x800.jpg" alt="Best Fat Tire Bikes" class="wp-image-200512" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/10_best_fat_bikes.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/10_best_fat_bikes-620x413.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/10_best_fat_bikes-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/10_best_fat_bikes-750x500.jpg 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a></figure> <p>Fat bikes are no longer the hot button topic that they were back in 2014, but as the discussion and controversy has died down to a low simmer, only revived by articles like <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-columns/over-a-beer-the-fat-bike-is-the-most-significant-mtb-revolution-in-the-past-decade-if-not-ever/">my recent Over a Beer column</a>, fat bikes have quietly cemented a position in the lineups of almost every major bike brand.</p> <p>This summer we surveyed you, the readers of Singletracks.com, to learn about your favorite bikes and products of 2016. According to your votes, here are the top 10 fat bikes for 2016.</p> <p><strong>For my analysis of this list, be sure to click to the final page of this report.</strong></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-10-rocky-mountain-blizzard">10. <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Fat-Bikes/Rocky-Mountain-Blizzard_11272">Rocky Mountain Blizzard</a></h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/BLIZZARD-50-HERO_0.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="675" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/BLIZZARD-50-HERO_0-1200x675.jpg" alt="BLIZZARD 50 HERO_0" class="wp-image-200145" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/BLIZZARD-50-HERO_0-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/BLIZZARD-50-HERO_0-620x349.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/BLIZZARD-50-HERO_0-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/BLIZZARD-50-HERO_0.jpg 1400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Rocky Mountain</figcaption></figure> <p>With the introduction of the <a href="http://www.bikes.com/en/bikes/blizzard/2017">Blizzard</a>, Rocky Mountain focused on bringing trail bike geometry and handling to the fat bike market, and if the high praise this bike receives is any indication, they’ve succeeded! Rocky Mountain has definitely played on their freeride heritage with the marketing of the Blizzard, with films such as “<a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-videos/watch-2-fat-2-furious-a-fat-bike-freeride-film/">2 Fat and 2 Furious</a>.” However, they’ve expanded their fat bike line for 2017 with the addition of <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-gear/rocky-mountain-launches-two-27-5-fat-bike-models-at-eurobike-2016/">the race-oriented Suzi Q</a> 27.5″x4″ fat bikes.</p> <p>In addition to the trail bike geometry, you can find a RockShox Bluto suspension fork on the top-tier Blizzard, along with a 1×10 drivetrain and an alloy frame. More affordable versions of this bike come with a rigid alumnium fork up front.</p> <p><strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Travel: 120mm or 0mm front / 0mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 26″x4.8″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 67.6 degrees</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 455mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Aluminum</li> <li>Pricing: $1,099-$2,599</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-9-surly-moonlander">9. <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Fat-Bikes/Surly-Moonlander_6040">Surly Moonlander</a></h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/surly-moonlander-copy-194572-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="669" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/surly-moonlander-copy-194572-1-1200x669.jpg" alt="surly-moonlander-copy-194572-1" class="wp-image-200161" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/surly-moonlander-copy-194572-1-1200x669.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/surly-moonlander-copy-194572-1-620x346.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/surly-moonlander-copy-194572-1-768x428.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/surly-moonlander-copy-194572-1.jpg 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Surly</figcaption></figure> <p>When it comes to the history of the fat bike, if you need to know one name, it’s Surly. Surly is the godfather of the first mass-produced fat bike, the Pugsley (more on that bike below). <a href="http://surlybikes.com/bikes/moonlander">The Moonlander</a> was one of Surly’s next bikes and eventually, the Moonlander was one of the very first 5-inch-tire fat bikes on the market. For most fat bikes that aren’t race-oriented, the 5-inch tire is now the gold standard, thanks to maximum traction and flotation.</p> <p>Not much has changed about the Moonlander over the years, and it retains the same classic geometry, big tires, rigid steel frame, and singlespeed-compatible sliding dropouts. As with all Surly bikes, expect to find plenty of bosses for racks and accessory mounts.</p> <p><strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Travel: 0mm front / 0mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 26″x4.8″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 70.5″</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 450mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Steel</li> <li>Pricing: $2,350</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-7-salsa-mukluk">7. <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Mountain-bikes/Salsa-Mukluk_6094">Salsa Mukluk</a></h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Mukluk_Carbon_XO1_Carousel-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="675" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Mukluk_Carbon_XO1_Carousel-1-1200x675.jpg" alt="Photo: Salsa" class="wp-image-200162" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Mukluk_Carbon_XO1_Carousel-1-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Mukluk_Carbon_XO1_Carousel-1-620x349.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Mukluk_Carbon_XO1_Carousel-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Mukluk_Carbon_XO1_Carousel-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Salsa</figcaption></figure> <p>Tied for 7th place is yet another one of the earliest fat bike models: the <a href="http://salsacycles.com/bikes/mukluk">Salsa Mukluk</a>. Surly and Salsa are now both owned by QBP, yet these individual fat bikes and brands both still live on individually and have loyal followings.</p> <p>While Surly clings tightly to their steel-framed roots, the Mukluk model has seen much more transformation over the years, and is now offered in either aluminum or carbon rigid models.</p> <p><strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Travel: 0mm front / 0mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 26″x4.33″, but can accommodate up to 4.8″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 69 degrees</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 432-449mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Aluminum and Carbon</li> <li>Pricing: $1,799-$4,499</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-7-pivot-les-nbsp-fat">7. <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Fat-Bikes/Pivot-LES-Fat-Bike_11826">Pivot LES Fat</a></h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/DSC_0440.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="801" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/DSC_0440-1200x801.jpg" alt="Photo: Michael Paul" class="wp-image-200170" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/DSC_0440-1200x801.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/DSC_0440-620x414.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/DSC_0440-768x513.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/DSC_0440-750x500.jpg 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Michael Paul</figcaption></figure> <p>The name of the game is “versatility” when it comes to the <a href="http://www.pivotcycles.com/bike/les-fat/">Pivot LES Fat</a>. This fat bike is specifically designed to be compatible with every single plus-size or fat-tire wheel+tire size on the market, thanks to the “patented Swinger II dropout system.” This dropout system “[enables] you to run almost any available plus or fat bike wheelsize, easily switch between singlespeed and geared drivetrains, and choose your chainstay length based on conditions and desired handling characteristics,” according to Pivot.</p> <p>As for suspension, the LES Fat is available with both rigid and suspension fork options.</p> <p><strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Travel: 100mm or 0mm front / 0mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: All plus or fat tire sizes, up to 26″x4.8″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 69-69.75 degrees, depending on tire size.</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 437mm-451mm, depending on tire size.</li> <li>Frame Material: Carbon</li> <li>Pricing: $3,499-$5,499</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-6-surly-ice-cream-truck">6. <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Fat-Bikes/Surly-Ice-Cream-Truck_11204">Surly Ice Cream Truck</a></h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ICT_17_sv_930x390.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="930" height="390" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ICT_17_sv_930x390.jpg" alt="Photo: Surly" class="wp-image-200172" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ICT_17_sv_930x390.jpg 930w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ICT_17_sv_930x390-620x260.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ICT_17_sv_930x390-768x322.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 930px) 100vw, 930px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Surly</figcaption></figure> <p><a href="http://surlybikes.com/bikes/ice_cream">Surly’s Ice Cream Truck</a> brings modern trail bike geometry to the 5-inch fat bike portion of their lineup, with a 68-degree headtube angle. You could consider the Ice Cream Truck a revamped Moonlander. While the steel frame and fork are held over from the Moonlander, the handling is radically different thanks to the updated geo. The Ice Cream Truck also offers the latest 197mm rear hub spacing.</p> <p><strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Travel: 0mm front / 0mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 26″x4.8″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 68 degrees</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 450mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Steel</li> <li>Pricing: $2,400-$2,700</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-5-surly-pugsley">5. <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Hardtail-bikes/Surly-Pugsley-_2462">Surly Pugsley</a></h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/surly_pug_ops1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="800" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/surly_pug_ops1-1200x800.jpg" alt="Photo: Jeff Barber" class="wp-image-200173" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/surly_pug_ops1-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/surly_pug_ops1-620x413.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/surly_pug_ops1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/surly_pug_ops1-750x500.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/surly_pug_ops1.jpg 1280w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Jeff Barber</figcaption></figure> <p>The <a href="http://surlybikes.com/bikes/pugsley">Surly Pugsley</a> is the OG fat bike. According to the film “<a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-videos/watch-10-years-of-fat-the-past-present-and-future-of-fat-bikes">10 Years of Fat</a>,” the Pugsley was “the world’s first mass-produced fat bike.” While very little has changed on the Pugsley over the years, this 4-inch fat bike model is still going strong and has a very loyal following, as the #5 ranking on this list shows.</p> <p>However, the classic geometry found on this fat bike leaves much to be desired. More recent fat bikes, such as the Ice Cream Truck, that have adopted trail bike-inspired geometry offer a much improved ride quality out on the trail.</p> <p><strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Travel: 0mm front / 0mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 26″x3.8″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 70 degrees</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 448mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Steel</li> <li>Pricing: $1,700</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-4-salsa-bucksaw">4. <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Fat-Bikes/Salsa-Bucksaw_11196">Salsa Bucksaw</a></h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/IMG_0339-1200x780.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="780" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/IMG_0339-1200x780-1200x780.jpg" alt="Photo: Greg Heil" class="wp-image-200174" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/IMG_0339-1200x780.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/IMG_0339-1200x780-620x403.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/IMG_0339-1200x780-768x499.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Greg Heil</figcaption></figure> <p>The <a href="http://salsacycles.com/bikes/bucksaw">Salsa Bucksaw</a> is notable as the first widely-distributed full suspension fat bike on the market, and then subsequently the first carbon full suspension fat bike. It’s been widely-acclaimed for its incredible versatility. As I concluded <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-reviews/test-ride-review-salsa-bucksaw-carbon/">my own test ride review of the Bucksaw</a>: “If you want to ride all year round, in every condition imaginable, and you truly are looking for the one-quiver bike, there is no more capable mountain bike than the Bucksaw and its full-suspension fat bike brethren.”</p> <p>The Bucksaw was voted the #1 fat bike in our 2015 survey.</p> <p><strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Travel: 100mm front / 100mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 26″x4″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 67.7 degrees</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 444mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Carbon and Aluminum</li> <li>Pricing: $3,499-$5,999</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-salsa-beargrease">3. <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Fat-Bikes/Salsa-Beargrease_11138">Salsa Beargrease</a></h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Beargrease_Carbon_X1_Carousel-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="675" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Beargrease_Carbon_X1_Carousel-1-1200x675.jpg" alt="Photo: Salsa" class="wp-image-200176" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Beargrease_Carbon_X1_Carousel-1-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Beargrease_Carbon_X1_Carousel-1-620x349.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Beargrease_Carbon_X1_Carousel-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Beargrease_Carbon_X1_Carousel-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Salsa</figcaption></figure> <p>One of the first models to challenge the paradigm of fat bikes as heavy and cumbersome, the <a href="http://salsacycles.com/bikes/beargrease">Beargrease</a> was one of the first (if not <em>the</em> first) carbon fat bike with a racey geo. While the Mukluk might be longer-running than the Beargrease, and the Bucksaw has squish both front and back, thanks to the ultra-low weights achievable on the Beargrease and the proven geometry, it’s obviously a fan favorite in the fat bike world, netting the #3 spot on our list. It was also voted the #1 fat bike in our 2014 survey.</p> <p><strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Travel: 0mm front / 0mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 26″x4.0″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 68.5 degrees</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 440mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Aluminum and Carbon</li> <li>Pricing: $1,399-$3,999</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-trek-farley">2. <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Fat-Bikes/Trek-Farley_7792">Trek Farley</a></h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2015-04-22-farley-IMG_0136-1200x800.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="800" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2015-04-22-farley-IMG_0136-1200x800-1200x800.jpg" alt="Photo: Greg Heil" class="wp-image-200177" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2015-04-22-farley-IMG_0136-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2015-04-22-farley-IMG_0136-1200x800-620x413.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2015-04-22-farley-IMG_0136-1200x800-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2015-04-22-farley-IMG_0136-1200x800-750x500.jpg 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Greg Heil</figcaption></figure> <p>Trek pioneered a new tire size with the introduction of their race-oriented <a href="http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en_US/bikes/mountain-bikes/fat-bikes/c/B509/">Farley fat bike</a>: 27.5″x4″. Since then, the 27.5″x4″ tire size has been adopted by other brands, primarily for use on other race-oriented fatties. However, some models of the Farley are also compatible with wider 5-inch tires on 26″ rims, and all of the latest Farley models come with 27.5″x4.5″ tires.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/trek_launch1-1200x803.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="803" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/trek_launch1-1200x803-1200x803.jpg" alt="Photo: Aaron Chamberlain" class="wp-image-200178" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/trek_launch1-1200x803.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/trek_launch1-1200x803-620x415.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/trek_launch1-1200x803-768x514.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Aaron Chamberlain</figcaption></figure> <p>In addition to the standard Farley, Trek has recently released the Farley EX full suspension fat bike, sporting 120mm of travel front and back. Due to the way results were tallied in our survey and the closeness of these model names, it wasn’t clear exactly which model of the Trek Farley readers were choosing to vote for, so all models of the Farley were tallied together, and both bikes are discussed here.</p> <p>The Farley EX is the second widely-distributed full suspension fat bike after the Salsa Bucksaw, and has become an instant hit.</p> <p><strong>Key Specs, Standard Farley:</strong></p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Travel: 0mm front / 0mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 27.5″x4.5″, max of 26″x5.0″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 69 degrees</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 440mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Aluminum and Carbon</li> <li>Pricing: $1,729-$7,499</li> </ul> <p><strong>Key Specs, Farley EX:</strong></p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Travel: 120mm front / 120mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 27.5″x4.0″</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 68.8 degrees</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 443mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Aluminum and Carbon</li> <li>Pricing: $3,499-$5,499</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-specialized-fatboy">1. <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Fat-Bikes/Specialized-Fatboy_7660">Specialized Fatboy</a></h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2015-04-18-spec-fat-boy-IMG_0039-1200x800.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="800" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2015-04-18-spec-fat-boy-IMG_0039-1200x800-1200x800.jpg" alt="Photo: Greg Heil" class="wp-image-200180" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2015-04-18-spec-fat-boy-IMG_0039-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2015-04-18-spec-fat-boy-IMG_0039-1200x800-620x413.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2015-04-18-spec-fat-boy-IMG_0039-1200x800-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/2015-04-18-spec-fat-boy-IMG_0039-1200x800-750x500.jpg 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Greg Heil</figcaption></figure> <p>Specialized has officially cemented their position in the fat bike market with <a href="https://www.specialized.com/us/en/bikes/mountain/fat-bike/fatboy">the Fatboy</a>, claiming the coveted #1 spot in our annual survey! It’s come close before, with a #2 ranking in 2015 and a #3 ranking in 2014, but the Fatboy has officially secured a gold medal!</p> <p>Interestingly, the Fatboy models currently listed on Specialized’s website have changed significantly from the Fatboy Pro I rode in 2015, which had full-fat 4.6″ tires and a RockShox Bluto fork. While you can get 4.6″ tires in the two most affordable Fat Boy builds for 2017, the three more expensive models feature 4″ tires. Interestingly, none of the Fatboy models offer suspension forks, perhaps because Specialized is optimizing for the fat bike race market.</p> <p><strong>Key Specs:</strong></p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Travel: 0mm front / 0mm rear</li> <li>Tire Size: 26″x4″ in most models; 26″x4.6″ in some models.</li> <li>Headtube Angle: 70.5 degrees</li> <li>Chainstay Length: 455mm</li> <li>Frame Material: Aluminum and Carbon</li> <li>Pricing: $1,400-$7,000</li> </ul> <h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analysis">Analysis</h1> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fat-biking-has-arrived">Fat Biking Has Arrived</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/GOPR6758-0005-1200x922.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="922" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/GOPR6758-0005-1200x922-1200x922.jpg" alt="Photo: Michael Paul" class="wp-image-200182" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/GOPR6758-0005-1200x922.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/GOPR6758-0005-1200x922-620x476.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/GOPR6758-0005-1200x922-768x590.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Michael Paul</figcaption></figure> <p>I found the fat bike results from our 2016 survey to offer valuable insights into the fat bike market today. Salsa took the vote for the #1 fat bike in both 2014 and 2015 with the Beargrease and the Bucksaw, respectively. The Fatboy was always in the running (#3 in 2014 and #2 in 2015), but overtook the rest of the field by a large margin for 2016.</p> <p>Perhaps most interesting is the rapid rise of the Trek Farley, perhaps spurred on by the introduction of the full suspension Farley EX. Trek hasn’t ranked in the top 5 fat tire bikes since we began our surveys in 2014, yet for 2016 it rocketed up to the silver medal position–impressive!</p> <p>Seeing two of the biggest bike brands in the world occupy the #1 and #2 spots on the list indicates to me that fat biking has officially arrived. While fat bikes will of course never displace standard mountain bikes, they’ve made a solid market for themselves that isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-naming-conventions-affect-results">Naming conventions affect results?</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Screen-Shot-2016-11-01-at-2-edit.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="937" height="746" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Screen-Shot-2016-11-01-at-2-edit.jpg" alt="Screen Shot 2016-11-01 at 2-edit" class="wp-image-200183" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Screen-Shot-2016-11-01-at-2-edit.jpg 937w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Screen-Shot-2016-11-01-at-2-edit-620x494.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Screen-Shot-2016-11-01-at-2-edit-768x611.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 937px) 100vw, 937px" /></a></figure> <p>While the trend of major mountain biking brands embracing fat biking is undeniable, differences in naming conventions from one brand to another could have skewed the survey results in favor of both Trek and Specialized. Essentially, for each of these brands, all of their fat bike models fall under the name of “Farley” or “Fatboy,” no matter how different those models are. For instance, under the “Farley” name you can find the full suspension Farley EX, and multiple tire and wheel size options for the rigid Farley. The Fatboy also offers different models with different tire sizes.</p> <p>In contrast to the major brands, the smaller brands, which offer much more diversity overall in their fat bike lines, have broken different tire sizes and suspension amounts out into different model names. Specifically, Surly and Salsa each had three results on this top 10 list, but if they had used a similar naming convention to Trek and Specialized, all of those models would actually have been one single model.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analysis-by-brand">Analysis by Brand</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/DSC_6198-1200x729.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="729" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/DSC_6198-1200x729-1200x729.jpg" alt="Photo: Michael Paul" class="wp-image-200184" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/DSC_6198-1200x729.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/DSC_6198-1200x729-620x377.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/DSC_6198-1200x729-768x467.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Michael Paul</figcaption></figure> <p>Due to the lack of standardization in fat bike naming conventions, I took the raw survey data and instead tallied the results by brand. If you group all of the votes by brand, removing erroneous votes for 27.5+ bikes which don’t qualify as fat bikes, here are the adjusted survey rankings:</p> <ol class="wp-block-list"> <li>Salsa</li> <li>Surly</li> <li>Specialized</li> <li>Trek</li> <li>Borealis</li> <li>Pivot</li> <li>Rocky Mountain</li> </ol> <p>When ranked by brand, Salsa and Surly again run away with the wins by a significant margin. For comparison, Salsa received almost 2x the number of votes that Trek received. Also note that Borealis takes the #5 spot on the brand list, even though it couldn’t get a single model onto the ranked list of bikes.</p> <p>After comparing the differences between the individual bike rankings and the brand rankings, it’s clear that while the big two brands may be breaking into the fat bike market in a big way, many niche brands have much deeper fat bike lineups. Even in 2016, the fat bike market is still controlled by the small brands that helped pioneer this remarkable revolution in mountain biking: Surly and Salsa.</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/the-10-best-fat-bikes-of-2016-readers-choice-awards/">The 10 Best Fat Bikes of 2016 – Readers’ Choice Awards</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/the-10-best-fat-bikes-of-2016-readers-choice-awards/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>8</slash:comments> </item> </channel> </rss> <!-- Performance optimized by W3 Total Cache. 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