SANTA CRUZ 50 10 CC X01 + RESERVE

£7,299 Danny MacAskill’s weapon of choice

If you want to avoid ‘over-gunning’ yourself and keep fun at the heart of your ride, then the 5010 may be the bike for you. Built around Santa Cruz’s twin-link ‘VPP’ (Virtual Pivot Point) suspension, it rocks 130mm of travel front and rear, and rolls on 650b wheels, with room for 2.8in tyres. It’s the go-to whip of legendary bike handler Danny MacAskill, which is no small compliment. The top ‘Carbon CC’ frame uses Santa Cruz’s most advanced construction techniques and materials. This model is built up with the brand’s own Reserve 37 carbon wheels, Fox Performance Elite suspension, a SRAM X01 Eagle transmission and Guide RSC brakes. You can cut the cost by opting for a less refined ‘Carbon C’ or aluminium frame and more basic components, with complete alloy bikes starting from £2,699. Geometry wise, this pocket rocket combines a sensible reach (460mm, large), for stability, with short chain-stays (425mm), for agility. If previous 5010s are anything to go by, it should be one of this year’s top short-travel trail slayers. www.santacruzbikes.co.uk