
Top 10 Carbon Mountain Bike Frames For Trail & Enduro Riders
Top 10 Carbon Mountain Bike Frames For Trail & Enduro Riders
Every gram counts when you’re carving through technical trails or charging full tilt down enduro stages. Carbon fiber frames deliver the ultimate blend of featherlight agility, impressive strength-to-weight ratios, and vibration-damping resilience—qualities that translate directly into faster climbs, more confident descents, and a ride that feels tuned to your every move.
To pinpoint the very best carbon mountain bike frames for trail and enduro riders, we applied a rigorous set of criteria:
- Suspension travel in the 140–170 mm range for balanced bump absorption and responsiveness
- Frame weights hovering around 2 kg to keep you light on your pedals
- Trail-specific geometry (reach, head-tube angle, stack) to match aggressive terrain
- Premium carbon construction backed by robust warranty coverage
- Mid- to high-end pricing that reflects performance and durability
Safety and longevity were non-negotiable. Each model on our list conforms to U.S. CPSC requirements (16 CFR Part 1512) and benefits from proper assembly torque settings as outlined by Park Tool’s torque specifications, ensuring you don’t compromise the integrity of critical carbon layups.
What follows is an in-depth look at ten standout carbon frames. For each, you’ll find key specifications, a breakdown of suspension design, real-world ride impressions, pros and cons, pricing, warranty details, and purchasing options. Whether you’re chasing KOMs on your local singletrack or lining up at an enduro race, this guide will help you zero in on the perfect carbon foundation for your next bike build.
1. Ibis Ripmo V2: The Versatile Trail & Enduro Performer
The Ibis Ripmo V2 strikes a fine balance between trail agility and enduro capability, making it a go-anywhere frame for riders who demand both efficient climbs and confidence-inspiring descents. Building on its predecessor’s pedigree, the V2 brings refined geometry and an updated suspension layout that feels peppery on technical climbs yet planted on rock-strewn chutes.
Overview & Key Specifications
The Ripmo V2 delivers 145 mm of rear travel paired with a 150 mm fork, slotting it squarely into the versatile trail-enduro category. The frameset tips the scales at approximately 2.3 kg (5.1 lb) in a size Medium, thanks to high-modulus carbon fiber and a minimalist hardware package. Key geometry numbers for a Medium include an effective top-tube length of 599 mm, a head-tube angle of 65.8°, reach of 445 mm, and a stack height of 625 mm. Wheel compatibility is generous: run 29″ wheels front and rear, or build a mullet setup with a 27.5+ rear wheel for extra clearance and playful handling.
Suspension System & Frame Design
At the heart of the Ripmo V2 lies Ibis’s signature DW-Link kinematics. By optimizing anti-squat characteristics at typical pedaling sag (25%), the suspension minimizes bob without sacrificing bump-absorption. The shock leverage curve starts with a relatively linear progression for small-bump sensitivity before ramping up into a progressive end-stroke, keeping you off the bottom on chunky, high-speed hits.
Carbon layup on the Ripmo V2 uses a blend of T700 and T800 fibers, with reinforced layers around the head tube, shock mount, and dropout areas. Ibis employs a bespoke molding process that ensures consistent wall thickness and fiber orientation, delivering a frame that’s both stiff where you need it and compliance-tuned underfoot.
Ride Quality & Performance
Climbing aboard the Ripmo V2, you’ll notice immediate pedaling efficiency. The DW-Link suspends unwanted movement under power, translating each pedal stroke into forward momentum—even on loose fire roads. Flip it into descent mode, and the bike’s planted demeanor shines over chattery rock gardens and steep, technical pitches. In tighter singletrack, the combination of a relatively short chainstay and balanced geo lets you flick through switchbacks with ease, while the low bottom bracket inspires confidence when you’re leaning the bike over the edge.
Pros, Cons & Ideal Use Cases
Pros:
- Exceptionally balanced between pedaling efficiency and descending traction
- Adaptable geometry—great with both 29″ wheels or a mullet setup
- High-quality carbon layup and targeted reinforcement
Cons:
- Premium frameset price
- Limited color options (usually two or three standard finishes)
Ideal For: Riders who split their season between fast, flowy trail days and enduro race stages, and anyone seeking a single bike that can tackle both without compromise.
Pricing, Warranty & Availability
The Ripmo V2 frameset carries an MSRP of $4,199. Ibis backs it with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. You can order direct from Ibis’s website (Ripmo V2 Frameset) or check availability through BoyerCycling.com—inventory varies, so keep an eye on our frameset section for the latest stock and exclusive bundle deals.
2. Santa Cruz Hightower: Balanced Trail All-Rounder
The Santa Cruz Hightower blends trail-friendly agility with enough confidence to tackle more aggressive terrain. It’s built to be the one-bike quiver—capable of munching miles on flowy singletrack while still handling burly rock gardens and steeps with poise.
Overview & Key Specifications
The Hightower offers 140 mm of rear travel mated to a 150 mm fork. In a size Medium, the carbon frameset weighs in at approximately 2.4 kg (5.3 lb), thanks to a 100% carbon construction using woven uni-directional layers. Geometry highlights include a 65.2° head-tube angle, 445 mm reach, 616 mm stack, and an effective top-tube length of 604 mm. It ships compatible with 29″ wheels front and rear (and mullet setups if you prefer a 27.5″ rear for extra playfulness).
Suspension System & Frame Design
At the heart of the Hightower is the VPP™ (Virtual Pivot Point) suspension layout. Dual counter-rotating links create a leverage curve that’s supportive under pedaling loads yet sensitive to small bumps, smoothing out chatter without sacrificing traction. Santa Cruz adds a tool-free flip-chip at the lower shock mount to adjust geometry on the fly—slackening the head tube by roughly 0.6° and lowering the bottom bracket about 10 mm when you flip into “Low” mode for steeper, trickier descents.
Ride Quality & Performance
On fast, flowy trails the Hightower feels eager and poppy. That VPP setup delivers just enough support to stay planted under power, while still soaking up chatter when speeds climb. Head into more technical sections and the frame’s balance shines: it feels stable through rock gardens and roots, yet doesn’t feel like a freight train in tight switchbacks. Overall, you get a nimble, confidence-inspiring ride that handles long trail days and rowdy descents with equal aplomb.
Pros, Cons & Ideal Use Cases
Pros:
- Exceptionally versatile—equally at home on all-day rides or technical descents
- Flip-chip geometry adjustment lets you fine-tune handling on the go
- Durable carbon layup and proven VPP suspension
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than some more enduro-focused frames
- Premium pricing can be a hurdle for budget-conscious riders
Ideal For:
Cyclists who want a single bike to cover everything from long, flowy trail rides to steeper, more challenging terrain without needing a dedicated enduro or XC rig.
Pricing, Warranty & Availability
The Hightower frameset carries an MSRP around $3,799. Santa Cruz backs every frame with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. You can explore current stock and build options on the official Santa Cruz site or see if your size is available through BoyerCycling.com’s mountain bike frames.
3. Trek Slash: Aggressive Enduro Pursuit
The Trek Slash is built for riders who prioritize high-speed stability and downhill performance without sacrificing too much climbing efficiency. With its full 160 mm of travel front and rear, the Slash sits firmly in the enduro category, offering confidence-inspiring composure on steep, technical terrain and enough pedaling support to shuttle back uphill.
Overview & Key Specifications
In a size Medium, the Slash frameset tips the scales at approximately 2.5 kg (5.5 lb), thanks to Trek’s proprietary OCLV Mountain Carbon layup. Key geometry numbers include:
- Rear travel: 160 mm
- Front travel: 160 mm (recommended fork)
- Head-tube angle: 64.3°
- Reach: 465 mm
- Stack: 630 mm
- Bottom bracket drop: 27 mm
- Frame compatibility: 29″ wheels front and rear, mullet setups supported
Trek’s integrated Knock Block system prevents bars and fork crowns from contacting on hard impacts or tight bar spins, preserving the frame’s integrity in the roughest environments.
Suspension System & Frame Design
The Slash employs Active Braking Pivot (ABP) technology, which isolates braking forces from the suspension to maintain traction under heavy braking. Combined with the Mino Link flip-chip, you can tweak head-tube angle by about 0.4° and adjust bottom bracket height by roughly 10 mm—fine-tuning the bike’s handling for steep, technical descents or more pedal-friendly climbs.
Trek’s OCLV (Optimum Compaction Low Void) carbon process yields a frame that’s remarkably stiff laterally—translating to precise steering input—while still offering vertical compliance to smooth out chatter and small bumps.
Ride Quality & Performance
On fast, rocky trails and high-speed chutes, the Slash stays composed, tracking straight when you point it downhill and maintaining momentum through braking bumps. The ABP system ensures the suspension remains active even when you’re dragging the anchors into corners, so you don’t lose grip just when you need it most. Climbing feels surprisingly efficient: the bike doesn’t wallow under power, and the Mino Link “High” setting can be flipped in for a slightly steeper, more responsive feel when more forward pedaling is required.
Pros, Cons & Ideal Use Cases
Pros:
- Aggressive geometry tailored for steep, technical terrain
- ABP keeps the suspension active under braking for maximum traction
- Knock Block adds peace of mind on rocky runs
Cons:
- Heavier than some race-focused enduro frames
- Premium price tag
Ideal For:
Competitive enduro racers and park riders who demand a frame capable of charging downhill at full tilt, yet still able to pedal back to the top without feeling like dead weight.
Pricing, Warranty & Availability
The Slash frameset carries an MSRP of around $3,499. Trek backs every frame with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. You can explore build options and dealer availability on Trek’s official site (Slash Frameset), or check stock and exclusive bundle deals in BoyerCycling.com’s mountain bike frames section.
4. Yeti SB150: Enduro Race Specialist
When podium finishes and high‐speed confidence are on the line, the Yeti SB150 steps up. This frame is purpose‐built for enduro racers who demand a dialed suspension platform and geometry tuned for high‐stakes descents without giving up too much on the pedal.
Overview & Key Specifications
The SB150 delivers a full 150 mm of VPP™-driven rear travel matched to a 160 mm fork. In a size Medium, the carbon frameset clocks in right around 2.4 kg (5.3 lb), making it competitive in weight for the enduro class. Geometry leans into stability: a head‐tube angle of roughly 63.6°, a reach of about 450 mm, and a stack height near 620 mm. Together, these numbers translate into a low‐slung chassis that forgives high speeds and steep technical terrain.
Suspension System & Frame Design
Yeti’s signature Switch Infinity suspension underpins the SB150. Rather than a single pivot or concentric link, this design uses a translating lower link that moves the instantaneous center rearward as the shock compresses. The result? Anti‐knockback action that resists pedal kickback on firm climbs and a leverage curve that remains supportive through big hits. Small-bump sensitivity stays crisp, while the end‐stroke ramps up predictably to prevent harsh bottom‐outs.
Carbon layup on the SB150 prioritizes stiffness in the head tube and bottom-bracket regions, with compliance built into the seat-stay junction for added ride comfort. Yeti offers multiple shock tunes—XC, Trail, and Enduro—so you can fine-tune the spring curve and rebound characteristics depending on terrain and personal preference.
Ride Quality & Performance
On rough rock gardens and square-edge hits, the SB150 feels unwavering. The translating link keeps the rear wheel planted, giving you the confidence to scramble over checks and roots at speed. Climbing efficiency is equally noteworthy: the anti-knockback action lets you stand and charge without feeling the suspension flap under each pedal stroke. In fast, open sections, the bike tracks true and feels remarkably balanced for its aggressive intent.
Pros, Cons & Ideal Use Cases
Pros:
- Patented Switch Infinity suspension offers outstanding small-bump compliance and end-stroke support
- Geometry leans into stability for confident high-speed control
- Multiple shock tunes provide customizable ride feel
Cons:
- Premium price tag puts it near the top of the enduro market
- Suspension tuning can be complex for riders new to translating-link systems
Ideal For:
Enduro racers and aggressive trail riders who prioritize downhill performance and precise suspension action, but still expect a responsive climb.
Pricing, Warranty & Availability
The SB150 frameset carries an MSRP of around $4,499. Yeti supports every frame with a lifetime warranty covering manufacturing defects. While builds vary from season to season, you can keep an eye on availability and exclusive package deals through BoyerCycling.com’s mountain bike frames section, or check authorized Yeti dealers for current stock.
5. Specialized Enduro: Iconic Downhill-Capable Trail Frame
The Specialized Enduro has long been a go-to for riders chasing big-mountain lines without sacrificing pedaling prowess. With a generous 170 mm of rear travel, this frame stands out for its downhill confidence and trail-smashing capability, all wrapped in a package that still hustles back to the top.
Overview & Key Specifications
The Enduro frame delivers 170 mm of rear suspension paired with a recommended 170 mm fork up front. In a size Medium, the carbon chassis tips the scales at roughly 2.6 kg (5.7 lb), thanks to Specialized’s FACT 11m carbon layup. Key geometry numbers include:
- Head-tube angle: 64.5°
- Reach: 450 mm
- Stack: 630 mm
- Bottom-bracket drop: 25 mm
- Effective top-tube length: 610 mm
A standout feature is the integrated SWAT™ door in the downtube, offering on-bike storage for tools, a tube, or a mini-pump without adding a bulky bag. Additionally, a two-position flip-chip at the rocker link lets you tweak head-tube angle and bottom-bracket height on the fly—dial it steeper for technical climbs, or slacken it out for rowdy descents.
Suspension System & Frame Design
Specialized’s four-bar FSR® suspension layout underpins the Enduro’s design. This Horst-link configuration isolates braking forces from suspension movement, ensuring consistent traction under load. The leverage curve starts progressive, soaking up square-edge hits, before ramping up mid-stroke to resist harsh bottom-outs on big hits.
Specialized recommends pairing the frame with a custom-tuned shock—options typically include the RockShox Vivid Air or Fox X2. These shocks are valved to match the Enduro’s kinematics, giving you a supple ride through chatter and a firm end-stroke for aggressive impacts.
Ride Quality & Performance
Point the Enduro downhill and it’s remarkably composed. That long travel and progressive linkage eat up roots, rocks, and chunder with aplomb, while the slack geometry inspires confidence at speed. Yet when the trail flattens out or ramps back uphill, the flip-chip in “High” mode steepens the front end just enough to keep your weight forward, making grunt work feel a little less daunting.
Whether you’re railing berms or arrow-straight chutes, the Enduro strikes a fine balance between damping big hits and retaining enough small-bump sensitivity to keep the ride from feeling harsh.
Pros, Cons & Ideal Use Cases
Pros:
- Industry-leading 170 mm travel for downhill performance
- SWAT storage integration eliminates extra bags
- Flip-chip geometry adjustment for versatile handling
Cons:
- SWAT door hardware adds a bit of weight
- Premium frame price can stretch the budget
Ideal For:
Riders who prioritize big-mountain descents and need a frame that can stand up to brutal hits, yet still stay agile enough for climbs and flow trails.
Pricing, Warranty & Availability
The Specialized Enduro frameset carries an MSRP of $3,999. Specialized backs it with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. You can explore configuration options on the Specialized Enduro Frameset page, or check current stock and exclusive package deals in BoyerCycling.com’s mountain bike frames collection.
6. Canyon Strive CF: Innovative Shapeshifter Technology
Canyon’s Strive CF sets itself apart with a built-in Shapeshifter mechanism that lets you dial geometry on the fly—no tools required. Whether you’re sprinting up a fire road or pointing down a steep chute, you can switch between a snappy climbing setup and a slack, stable descent profile in seconds. In doing so, the Strive CF bridges the gap between trail agility and enduro aggression in one carbon frame.
Under the skin, the Strive CF pairs Canyon’s refined carbon layup with a dual-air shock and link-driven chassis. The result is a frameset that stays light—roughly 2.45 kg for the Medium frameset with shock—while delivering 150 mm of rear travel. Let’s dive into the numbers and mechanics that make this one of the most adaptable carbon mountain bike frames on the market.
Overview & Key Specifications
- Rear travel: 150 mm
- Recommended fork travel: 160 mm
- Frame weight (Medium w/ shock): ~2.45 kg (5.4 lb)
- Shapeshifter system: Cable-actuated, hydraulic cartridge
- Geometry adjustment range:
- Bottom-bracket height shift of ~10 mm
- Head-tube angle slackens or steepens by ~0.7°
- Wheel compatibility: 29″ front and rear; mullet setups supported
The Shapeshifter module lives at the top of the seat tube and uses a sealed hydraulic cartridge to reroute air between two chambers in the RockShox DPX2 Dual Air shock. When you hit the handlebar-mounted lever, the bike instantly moves from its “Trail” geometry—higher BB, steeper head angle—to the “Enduro” setting, which lowers the BB and slacks out the front for added stability.
Suspension System & Frame Design
Canyon’s carbon monocoque layup focuses stiffness in the head tube and bottom-bracket regions, while allowing compliance in the rear triangle. The Strive CF’s linkage design creates a progressive leverage curve: early travel is supple for small-bump sensitivity, then ramps up mid-stroke to guard against harsh bottom-outs on big hits. The dual-air DPX2 shock complements this curve by offering tool-free rebound and compression adjustments, ensuring you can fine-tune the feel once you’ve chosen your geometry mode.
Internally, the Shapeshifter’s hydraulic circuit is isolated from the rest of the frame, preventing contamination and ensuring consistent performance in all conditions. Cable routing is clean and fully internal, preserving Canyon’s signature sleek look and reducing maintenance hassles.
Ride Quality & Performance
Switch into Trail mode and the Strive CF climbs like a lean trail bike—higher bottom bracket, steeper front end, and a snappy pedaling platform. Hit the lever on the way down, and you’re in Enduro mode: the bike settles lower, the head angle opens up, and you gain extra composure on steep, technical descents. Transitions are seamless, so you never have to stop or fiddle with tools mid-ride. Whether darting through tight switchbacks or railing high-speed rock slabs, the Strive CF adjusts to the task, giving you confidence without compromise.
Pros, Cons & Ideal Use Cases
Pros:
- Unmatched on-the-fly geometry adjustment
- Direct-to-consumer pricing delivers value
- Lightweight carbon frame with progressive leverage curve
Cons:
- Shapeshifter system adds complexity and occasional maintenance
- Limited dealer support due to Canyon’s direct sales model
Ideal For:
Tech-savvy riders who want a single bike that morphs between nimble trail tool and gravity-slaying enduro weapon without missing a beat.
Pricing, Warranty & Availability
The Strive CF frameset carries an MSRP of $2,999. Canyon stands behind its carbon frames with a six-year warranty covering manufacturing defects. As a direct-to-consumer brand, Canyon ships worldwide from its own warehouses—simply configure your Strive CF on canyon.com and choose wheel, shock and component options at checkout. Keep an eye on BoyerCycling.com for any exclusive bundle offers when they become available.
7. Pivot Firebird: Pro-Level Race Geometry
Pivot’s Firebird is engineered for riders who demand every advantage on race day. With long-travel DW-Link suspension and an aggressive geo that favors stability at speed, this frame is a favorite among enduro pros chasing podiums on technical courses.
Overview & Key Specifications
The Firebird features 170 mm of DW-Link rear travel paired with a recommended 170 mm fork. In a size Medium, the carbon frameset weighs in at approximately 2.6 kg (5.7 lb) including the shock. Key geometry numbers include:
- Head-tube angle: 63°
- Reach: 460 mm
- Stack: 640 mm
- Effective top-tube length: 610 mm
- Bottom-bracket drop: 25 mm
- Wheel compatibility: 29″ front and rear (mullet setups supported)
This lofty stack and stretched reach give the Firebird a planted feel when charging steep, technical lines, while the slack head angle inspires confidence at high speeds.
Suspension System & Frame Design
At its core, the Firebird uses Pivot’s refined DW-Link kinematics. By optimizing the instant center throughout the stroke, the linkage provides a supple initial stroke for small-bump compliance, then transitions into a firm, progressive ramp to resist bottom-outs on square-edge hits. Braking forces stay isolated from the suspension action, ensuring traction when you’re hauling into corners.
The carbon monocoque layup employs high-modulus fibers in the head tube and down tube for precise steering feedback, while the rear triangle incorporates targeted compliance zones to soak up chatter. All pivot bearings are housed in replaceable, outboard cups for simplified service and long-term durability.
Ride Quality & Performance
On fast, rock-strewn descents the Firebird feels unwavering: it tracks true through chutes and maintains momentum over rough terrain. Push the pace in braking bumps and the DW-Link keeps the rear wheel glued, so you can stay aggressive into exits. When climbing, the suspension resists excessive bob, translating each pedal stroke into forward drive without harsh feedback. Overall, the Firebird delivers a balanced mix of precision steering, traction, and poppy trail manners—all wrapped in race-ready geometry.
Pros, Cons & Ideal Use Cases
Pros:
- Race-tuned DW-Link suspension for best-in-class traction
- Aggressive geometry that excels on steep, technical courses
- Replaceable pivot cups simplify maintenance
Cons:
- High MSRP puts it near the top of the price range
- Geometry is very aggressive—less forgiving for casual trail riders
Ideal For:
Seasoned enduro racers and gravity-focused riders who prioritize speed, stability, and a suspension platform that rewards aggressive lines.
Pricing, Warranty & Availability
The Pivot Firebird frameset carries an MSRP of $4,999. Pivot backs every carbon frame with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. You can configure and order directly from Pivot Cycles or check for current stock and exclusive bundle deals through BoyerCycling.com’s mountain bike frames collection.
8. Norco Optic C: Canadian Stamped Value Enduro
Norco’s Optic C brings serious enduro capability at a price point that undercuts many rivals. Designed and tested in British Columbia’s rugged backcountry, this frame blends a proven carbon layup with adjustable geometry to deliver balanced climb efficiency and downhill composure. If you’re hunting for a high-performance chassis without the top-tier price tag, the Optic C deserves a hard look.
Overview & Key Specifications
- Rear travel: 160 mm
- Recommended fork travel: 170 mm
- Frame weight (Medium w/ shock): ~2.5 kg (5.5 lb)
- Construction: T700 high‐modulus carbon fiber with targeted reinforcement in high-stress zones
- Head-tube angle: 64.1° (Low); 64.6° (High)
- Reach (Medium): 455 mm
- Stack (Medium): 630 mm
- Bottom-bracket drop: 22 mm (Low); 30 mm (High)
- Effective top-tube length: 610 mm
- Wheel compatibility: 29″ front and rear; mullet setups supported
Suspension System & Frame Design
The Optic C employs a Horst-link (four-bar) configuration that keeps braking forces isolated from suspension action. The leverage curve is progressive—sensitive to small bumps before ramping up to resist harsh bottom-outs on big hits. Norco includes a three-position geometry adjust feature:
- High mode for a steeper front end and higher bottom bracket—ideal for punchy climbs or tight trails
- Mid sits between the two extremes for everyday riding
- Low mode slacks the head angle by about 0.5° and drops the BB ~8 mm, boosting stability on steep, technical descents
Carbon layup is executed in a one-piece rear triangle with internal molding to ensure consistent wall thickness and fiber orientation. External pivot bearings ride in replaceable cups, simplifying service and extending the frame’s lifespan.
Ride Quality & Performance
On the climb, the Optic C’s Horst-link suspension resists excessive bob, letting you stay planted over loose fire roads and technical switchbacks. Descending, that same linkage delivers a composed feel through rock gardens and root-strewn pitches. The frame’s balanced geometry and well-tuned leverage curve inspire confidence when the trail tilts downhill, yet it never feels like dead weight when you’re grinding back to the top.
Pros, Cons & Ideal Use Cases
Pros:
- Competitive direct-to-consumer pricing
- Three-position geometry adjust for on-the-fly tuning
- Replaceable pivot cups and robust carbon layup
Cons:
- Brand visibility is lower compared to some marquee European names
- Geometry adjust requires a short stop to flip the chip
Ideal For: Riders on a budget who crave high-end carbon performance and the ability to tweak geometry for both aggressive enduro lines and more pedally trail days.
Pricing, Warranty & Availability
The Norco Optic C frameset carries an MSRP around $2,999. Norco stands behind its carbon frames with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. You can purchase through Norco’s network of U.S. dealers or order online—keep an eye on BoyerCycling.com’s mountain bike frames section for occasional exclusive bundles and stock updates.
9. Commencal Meta AM V4: High-Value Aggressive Trail/Enduro
For riders who crave an aggressive ride without a sky-high price tag, the Commencal Meta AM V4 delivers. This frame packs 160 mm of rear travel into a monobloc carbon chassis, marrying downhill prowess with surprisingly sprightly pedaling manners. Commencal leans into a race-inspired geometry that feels planted at speed yet still flickable when the trail tightens up.
Overview & Key Specifications
The Meta AM V4 offers:
- Rear travel: 160 mm
- Recommended fork travel: 160 mm
- Frame weight (Medium w/ shock): ~2.45 kg (5.4 lb)
- Head-tube angle: 64.5°
- Reach (Medium): 455 mm
- Stack (Medium): 625 mm
- Bottom-bracket drop: 25 mm
- Wheel compatibility: 29″ front and rear (mullet supported)
This modern geometry—long reach, slack head tube, low bottom bracket—gives you the stability to charge steep lines and the balance to rail corners. The monobloc carbon construction keeps weight in check and ensures consistent layup quality across the frame.
Suspension System & Frame Design
Commencal’s virtual-pivot layout produces a progressive leverage curve that’s supple in the first half of the stroke, then ramps up to resist harsh bottom-outs. Small-bump compliance is excellent, so chatter gets muted without feeling wallowy under power. Braking forces stay isolated from active suspension travel, helping maintain traction when you’re dragging anchors into corners.
On the hardware side, the Meta AM V4 sports internal cable routing for a clean look and hassle-free maintenance. The replaceable derailleur hanger and outboard pivot bearings are housed in easy-service cups, extending the frame’s lifespan and simplifying overhauls after season-ending rides.
Ride Quality & Performance
Point the Meta AM V4 downhill and it feels unflappable: the slack front end absorbs chunder, while the rear stays glued through rock gardens and root fields. That progressive curve means you’ll feel confident on big hits, yet you won’t get harsh feedback on smaller impacts.
On climbs, the chassis resists bobbing, translating pedal inputs into forward drive. It’s not the lightest climbing bike in the lineup, but the balanced suspension and aggressive geometry make grinding uphill more fun than you’d expect from a burly enduro rig. In tight switchbacks, the short chainstays and stable steering let you flick the bike around with minimal effort.
Pros, Cons & Ideal Use Cases
Pros:
- Outstanding value for a full-carbon enduro frame
- Progressive suspension tune that balances small-bump sensitivity and bottom-out resistance
- Easy-service design with replaceable hangers and pivot bearings
Cons:
- Limited custom color options compared to some premium brands
- Geometry may feel too aggressive for riders seeking a mellow trail bike
Ideal For:
Bike-packers, mixed-trail enthusiasts, and gravity-seekers who want a high-travel frame that doubles as a capable all-rounder without breaking the bank.
Pricing, Warranty & Availability
The Commencal Meta AM V4 frameset carries an MSRP of around $2,899. Commencal provides a two-year warranty against manufacturing defects. You can order direct through Commencal’s U.S. distributors or keep an eye on BoyerCycling.com’s frames section for exclusive deals and stock updates.
10. Evil Offering: Modern Single-Pivot with Versatility
Evil’s Offering strikes a rare balance: the simplicity of a single-pivot design with versatility typically reserved for more complex linkages. Boasting 160 mm of rear travel, this frame leans into a playful, responsive character while keeping maintenance straightforward. Whether you’re railing berms or dabbling in enduro stages, the Offering’s straightforward kinematics and tunable layout deliver a lively ride that’s easy to dial in.
Overview & Key Specifications
The Evil Offering delivers:
- Rear travel: 160 mm
- Recommended fork travel: 160 mm
- Frame weight (size Medium): ~2.5 kg (5.5 lb)
- Construction: High-modulus carbon with reinforced head tube and bottom bracket
- Geometry adjust: Two-position flip-chip for head-angle and bottom-bracket height tuning
- Wheel compatibility: 29″ front and rear; mullet setups supported
This frameset keeps things clean: internal routing preserves Evil’s signature sleek lines, and the flip-chip lets you slacken the head angle by about 0.5° and drop the bottom bracket roughly 8 mm when you need extra stability on steep, rough terrain.
Suspension System & Frame Design
The Offering employs a single-pivot layout, chosen for its predictable leverage curve and minimal service requirements. Early travel is supple for small-bump compliance, while mid-stroke progression handles larger hits without harsh bottom-outs. Evil fine-tunes spring rate via a custom-mapped shock tune—often a RockShox or Fox unit with hydraulic damping cartridges—to match the frame’s kinematics. Replaceable pivot bearings ride in outboard cups, making routine rebuilds quick and cost-effective.
Ride Quality & Performance
On twisty trails and bermed corners, the Offering feels eager and playful, responding instantly to input with a lively pop. The simple pivot gives a direct connection to the terrain, so you know exactly what’s happening underfoot. When the trail steepens, flipping into the “Low” chip setting slackens the front end and lowers the center of gravity—boosting composure through chunder and rock drops. Despite its single-pivot roots, the bike climbs efficiently, and the progressive end-stroke keeps you off the bottom when you push hard.
Pros, Cons & Ideal Use Cases
Pros:
- Simplified single-pivot design reduces maintenance overhead
- Flip-chip geometry makes on-the-fly tuning a breeze
- Playful handling and predictable suspension action
Cons:
- Less small-bump compliance than multi-link systems
- May feel too direct for riders seeking a plush, chatter-eating ride
Ideal For:
Riders who value straightforward suspension design, want a playful, responsive chassis, and appreciate the ease of service that comes with a simplified layout.
Pricing, Warranty & Availability
The Offering frameset carries an MSRP of approximately $2,899. Evil backs it with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. You can configure and order directly through Evil’s website or check availability and exclusive build bundles at BoyerCycling.com’s mountain bike frames.
Next Steps and Where to Go From Here
Now that you’ve explored the top carbon mountain bike frames for trail and enduro riding, it’s time to match one to your personal style. Think about the terrain you tackle most—whether it’s steep, technical chutes or flowy singletrack—and how much climbing versus descending you do. Factor in your budget and willingness to invest in direct-to-consumer deals or premium, pro-level builds. Each frame on this list delivers a slightly different balance of weight, compliance, geometry, and price, so pick the one that speaks to your priorities.
Once you’ve zeroed in on the right platform, complete your build with confidence. Head over to BoyerCycling.com to browse our full range of carbon mountain bike frames, forks, wheels, drivetrains, brakes, and protective gear. While you’re there, take advantage of exclusive promotions—like free socks with every college-logo jersey purchase—and sign up for our email newsletter to stay on top of new arrivals, seasonal sales, and expert tips. Your next unforgettable ride starts with the right foundation and the gear to match—let’s get rolling.