Ibis

Mojo HD3 XTR 1x Werx Complete Bike - 2015

Mountain bikes don't get much more progressive than the Ibis Mojo HD3 XTR 1x Complete Bike. With a big-travel carbon fiber frame weighing a mere 2,676g, an efficient DW-Link suspension platform, 41mm-wide carbon rims, and Shimano's all new XTR 9000 one-by drivetrain, there's no room left for newer or better if you're planning on going big. The combination of low weight, high travel, and a slack geometry make the HD3 one of the most angelic enduro demons we've ever had the pleasure of abusing.

The HD3 takes up the Mojo HD 650's trail, starting with the same 27.5-inch wheels that enjoy all the handling benefits of 26ers and a big, 29er-esque angle of attack. The HD3 also rocks the venerable DW-Link suspension platform, which completely isolates rear wheel movement from pedaling and braking forces, creating a plush and linear suspension motion that feels like an even bigger bike on descents yet pedals on flats and climbs like a trail machine. This build's 160mm of front travel mean its tapered head tube is slackened from the standard 67 degrees to a beastly 66.6, which pushes the bike more toward the demonic downhill side of enduro racing without totaling sacrificing its angelic climbing and XC platform.

The 16.9-inch chainstays and 13.4-inch bottom bracket are also studies in paradoxical balance that net uncommon agility for a bike in this category. Power transfer and travel both sit where we like them — high — without compromising tracking or clearance, so you won't lose the advantages you gain climbing by being hamstrung or pedal-struck on gnarly descents and rocky corners.

The threaded bottom bracket mercifully dismisses any proprietary press-fit systems in favor of a rock-solid, dirt-simple, creak-free standard that will last for ages. Dual-row angular contact bearings on the drive side of the linkage require zero preload adjustment and dramatically reduce play compared to standard sealed bearings, further bolstering the bike's lateral solidity whether you're climbing or dropping-in.

This monster is brought to life with a one-by drivetrain combining Shimano's XTR and a Race Face Turbine Cinch crankset. The single-chainring system saves the weight and complication associated with the need for a front derailleur, with an 11-40 cassette range providing ample ratios to take full advantage of the Mojo HD3's multi-faceted ride.

The kit's strongest selling point may be the heretically-wide 41mm Ibis 741 carbon rims, which boost tire volume and allow the Maxxis Minion DHF tires to be run at lower pressures to afford greater climbing, cornering, and braking traction while further smoothing trail furniture already laid low by the high-volume Cane Creek DBinline air shock FOX Float 36 RC2 fork.