Highs and lows

Geometry is one of the key metrics in how a mountain bike handles. So, while Transition’s Spur weighs the same as many XC full-suspension bikes, the fact it is longer, slacker and has a lower standover means it handles more like an aggressive trail bike.

Evil’s Following is also an outlier in its category with the brand actively opting for a tighter wheelbase and steeper angles to maintain the hyperactive, jack-in-the-box character the model built its reputation on.

But geometry is not the only metric, suspension plays a big part in how both bikes behave. It’s why the lighter Spur actually feels more glued to the floor, more sensible and sedate than the space hopper Evil that just wants to leap into orbit every time you push deep into its travel.