Narrowing down good Downhill Bike brands when window shopping is confusing at best. They all kind of have similar geometries and all the parts are beefy. On top of that, brands that used to make DH bikes are not anymore. Instead, there are some new names in the game now.
Downhill MTB is dangerous as it is. You don’t want to rely on bad equipment, but get the best available to you. So that your bike holds up when you need it most.
The brands on this list have built their reputation over years and decades while being represented in the most extreme MTB events – from World Cup racing to big mountain freeride like Rampage. They’re not only durable, and performing well, but also provide replacement parts down the line.
Not even all of the top mountain bike brands offer their own Downhill bikes, which is still a niche sport. Also, feel free to cross-reference and take a look at which brands are operating their own World Cup Downhill Teams. Only the best-performing, most durable bikes make it through a racing season at the elite level.
They’re a level above the rest in terms of performance, reliability, components and resale value. Still, customer service can be hit and miss between direct-to-consumer brands and brands sold at your local bike shop.
Which brand of bikes is ultimately the best for you depends largely on your location. Availability, customer service, shipping costs and overall pricing are very region-specific. Some smaller brands and boutique bikes may even be unavailable in your region.
Rumors: Marin may be getting back into the DH market, currently testing a prototype. And Forbidden is running a DH World Cup team without a full 200mm DH bike yet.
Antidote
Let’s start with arguably the most expensive downhill bike available right now: the Antidote Darkmatter. Antidote is a relatively small Polish brand that has its frames hand-built in Europe.
They’ve quickly gained a reputation for producing uniquely designed, high-end, custom-built bikes. Their high-pivot downhill mountain bike model, the Darkmatter, is a 29er full carbon frame eye candy.
The brand also offers a custom bike builder service, allowing riders to fully customize their bike to their liking. Antidote’s attention to detail and craftsmanship has made them a favorite among serious riders looking for a high-performance boutique bike that stands out from the rest.
Learn more at antidotebikes.com.
Atherton
Next up is Atherton, where the slogan “designed by World Champions” is more than a catchphrase. This brand is owned by the three legendary Atherton siblings, Rachel, Gee, and Dan Atherton, the royal family of DH racing. They’ve used their expertise to create a line of bikes that are custom-built to every rider’s needs – even custom sizing options.
Their downhill model, the AM.200M, is only available as a mixed-wheel wheel setup, and for good reason. Like all their bikes, it’s individually hand-crafted in their own Machynlleth facility.
“The 3 Athertons and our Continental Atherton race team riders all prefer the mullet setup, so we committed to the switch.”
Gill Harris from Atherton Bikes
What sets Atherton Bikes apart is their use of additive manufacturing technology, which allows them to create unique frame designs that would be impossible with traditional manufacturing methods. Think 3D-printed frames with a geometry, fine-tuned to the rider.
And the best part: If you pick up your new bike directly at the shop, you get not only a tour but also get to turn your maiden laps at DYFI bike park a few minutes down the road.
Learn more at athertonbikes.com.
Canyon
Canyon is a German brand that’s been around since 2002, and they’ve quickly become a favorite among mountain bikers worldwide. Their downhill model, the Sender, features a full carbon frame, 29-inch wheels, and a RockShox suspension system that’s been specifically designed to provide maximum traction and control on steep descents.
Canyon is a German brand that has been around since 2002. The brand’s direct-to-consumer business model allows them to offer high-quality bikes at competitive prices. The brand’s flagship model, the Spectral, is a popular choice among enduro riders, thanks to its adjustable geometry and high-quality suspension.
Canyon offers an extremely wide range from hardtails pumptrack bikes to full-suspension downhill machines, making them a great option for riders of all skill levels.
With a focus on value and performance, Canyon is a brand that is sure to appeal to a wide range of riders.
Learn more at canyon.com, their direct-to-consumer website.
Commencal
The popular brand from Andorra, Commencal, leans heavily into the gravity side of MTB. They got no less than two different downhill frames on the market: the FRS and the Supreme DH, which won multiple World Cup races and the 2022 overall title.
Commencal bikes were one of the first high-pivot designs, which still carries over. They also stand out with the frame materials used.
Commencal wants none of that carbon business and sticks with high-quality, beautifully welded alloy frames throughout the entire lineup. And as a side note: The Supreme is one of the most silent bikes you’ll ever hear.
Learn more at commencal-store.com, their direct-to-consumer shop, or check for current deals at Chain Reaction Cycles.
Cube
Cube is a German brand that’s been around since 1993, and they’ve built a reputation for producing bikes that are both innovative and stylish. Their downhill model, the Two15, features a full carbon frame, 27.5-inch wheels, and a Fox suspension system that’s been specifically designed to provide maximum control and stability on steep descents.
Learn more at cube.eu or check for current deals at Chain Reaction Cycles.
Devinci
Devinci’s bikes are all about giving you the ride of your life, every day. Whether you’re riding your local trails or shredding double diamonds in Whistler, Devinci has the perfect bike for you.
Wherever you’re going, we’ve turned to science to dial in your frame for speed and maneuverability: frame options run from Canadian-made aluminum to monocoque carbon fiber while tech specs include the World-Cup-proven Split Pivot System, the all-new High-Pivot suspension platform, and the Flip Chip-powered adjustable geometry.
Built with durability in mind and covered by a lifetime warranty, these bikes are designed to let you focus on the most important aspect of riding: enjoying the ride.
Devinci’s flagship DH ride, The Wilson, first stormed the World Cup scene in 2011. Since then—from pocketing podiums to blazing parks —the bike has set the bar for both innovation and inspiration.
Learn more at devinci.com or check for current deals at Competitive Cyclist and Jenson.
GT Bicycles
GT Bicycles is a cornerstone American brand that’s been around since 1979, and they’ve built a reputation for producing bikes that are both high-quality and affordable. Their downhill model, the Fury, features a carbon frame, 27.5-inch wheels, and a RockShox suspension system that’s been specifically designed to provide maximum traction and control on steep descents.
GT Bicycles is an American brand that has been around since 1972. The brand’s bikes are designed to offer a perfect combination of performance and durability, with a focus on cross-country, trail and enduro riding.
GT Bicycles offers a wide range of mountain bikes, from hardtails to full suspension rigs, all designed to offer a fun and engaging ride. The brand’s frames are made from high-quality aluminum and carbon fiber, and they use top-of-the-line components from brands like Shimano and Fox.
Learn more at gtbicycles.com or check for current deals at Jenson and Chain Reaction Cycles.
Intense
Intense Cycles is an American brand that’s been around since 1993. With multi-time motocross champion Ryan Dungey as an investor and downhill legend Aaron Gwin as race team owner, Intense has all-American experience behind it.
Got an interesting situation going on: The bike raced in the DH World Cup circuit is different from the consumer model, the M29 with a full carbon frame and 29-inch wheels.
It’s an alloy prototype that keeps changing its shape slightly until it’s Aaron Gwin and teammate Dakotah Norton are satisfied with it. So you can be sure Intense will only release the best possible, race-proven equipment to the public.
Learn more at intensecycles.com.
Kona
Kona is a Canadian brand that’s been around since 1988, and they’ve built a reputation for producing bikes that are both durable and versatile. Their downhill model, the Operator, features a full aluminum frame, 27.5-inch wheels, and a RockShox suspension system that provides a smooth ride even on the most technical terrain.
Kona is a Canadian brand that has been around since 1988. The brand’s bikes are designed to offer a perfect combination of performance and fun, with a focus on cross-country, trail and enduro riding.
Kona offers a range of mountain bikes, from hardtails to full suspension rigs, all designed to offer a playful and engaging ride. The brand’s frames are made from high-quality aluminum and carbon fiber, and they use top-of-the-line components from brands like Shimano and Fox.
With a focus on performance and fun, Kona is a brand that is sure to appeal to riders who want a bike that is as playful as it is capable.
Learn more at konaworld.com or check for current deals at Jenson.
Mondraker
Mondraker is a Spanish brand that’s been around since 2001, and they’ve made a name for themselves by producing bikes that are both stylish and high-performing. Their downhill model, the Summum, features a full carbon frame, 29-inch wheels, and a Fox suspension system that can handle even the most technical descents with ease.
The brand’s bikes are designed to offer a perfect combination of performance and style, with a focus on downhill and enduro riding. Mondraker offers a range of mountain bikes, including their signature Zero suspension platform, which is designed to offer maximum traction and control on the most challenging terrain.
The brand’s frames are made from high-quality aluminum and carbon fiber, and they use components from top brands like Fox and Shimano. Mondraker is also committed to innovation, constantly pushing the limits of what is possible with mountain bike design.
They’re also known for having some of the longest, slackest geometries out there. With a focus on performance and style, Mondraker is a great choice for riders who want a bike that stands out on the trails.
Learn more at mondraker.com or check for current deals at Jenson.
Norco
Norco has been making bicycles a long time – over fifty years now – and it just keeps getting better. Behind the walls of Norco’s two offices you will find some of the most dedicated and committed people in the cycling industry.
They’ve made cycling more than a job, they’ve made it their lives. Day in and day out they work with bicycles, trying to bring you the best, most innovative products possible so you can enjoy the best ride you’ve ever been on.
They do it because they love their bikes and think that the world would be a better place if more people took to the pedal. They’re not starting a revolution, they’re just trying to get more people to ride. It really is that simple.
Learn more at norco.com or check for current deals at Competitive Cyclist and Jenson.
Nukeproof
Nukeproof is a British brand that’s been around since 1990, and they’ve built a reputation for producing bikes that are both durable and high-performing.
Their downhill model, the Dissent, features a full aluminum frame, 27.5-inch wheels, and a RockShox suspension system that can handle anything the mountain throws your way.
Nukeproof is a Northern Irish brand that has been around since 1990. The brand’s bikes are designed to offer a perfect combination of performance and durability, with a focus on downhill and enduro riding.
Nukeproof offers a range of mountain bikes, including their signature Mega and Scout models, which were initially designed for the notoriously punishing Megavalanche races.
The brand’s frames are made from high-quality aluminum and carbon fiber, and they use components from top brands like RockShox and SRAM.
Nukeproof is also committed to innovation, constantly pushing performance with design in mind. With a focus on durability and performance, Nukeproof is a great choice for riders who want a bike that can handle the toughest trails and prove they can win in World Series racing.
Learn more at nukeproof.com or check for current deals at Chain Reaction Cycles.
Pivot
Pivot Cycles is an American brand that’s been around since 2007, and they’re known for producing bikes that are both high-quality and versatile. Their downhill model, the Phoenix, features a full carbon frame, 27.5-inch wheels, and a Fox suspension system that’s been specifically designed to provide maximum control and stability on steep descents.
Pivot Cycles is an American brand that has been around since 2007. The brand’s bikes are high-performing and versatility, with a range from cross-country, trail, enduro to downhill riding.
Pivot’s range of mountain bikes, including their signature Mach 4 and Firebird models. The brand’s frames are made from high-quality carbon fiber, and they use components from top brands like Shimano and Fox.
They’re also committed to innovation, constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible with mountain bike design (just look at the mind-blowing prototype bikes raced in the world cup!).
Learn more at pivotcycles.com or check for current deals at Competitive Cyclist.
Propain
Propain Bikes is a German brand that’s been around since 2011, and they’ve made a name for themselves by producing bikes that are both high-performing and affordable. Their downhill model, the Tyee, features a full carbon frame, 27.5-inch wheels, and a Fox suspension system that’s been specifically designed to provide maximum control and stability on steep descents.
One of the unique features of the Propain Tyee is its ability to be customized to meet the rider’s individual preferences.
The bike comes with an adjustable geometry system that allows the rider to tweak the bike’s head angle, chainstay length, and bottom bracket height to suit their riding style.
This means that whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, you can fine-tune the Tyee to your liking and get the most out of every ride.
Their mission is to create high-end mountain bikes that are reliable and budget-friendly at the same time. Their bikes are designed for both recreational and competitive riders.
Propain bikes feature a unique suspension system that provides optimal traction and stability. The company’s signature feature is its “Rear Traxx Shock”, which gives the rider excellent control and responsiveness. A wide range of frame materials and components is used, including carbon fiber, aluminum, and titanium.
Learn more at propain-bikes.com, their direct-to-consumer shop.
Rocky Mountain
I wasn’t sure if I should include Rocky Mountain on this list of DH bike brands. Technically they offer one. But it’s more of a big Enduro frame that also can hold a dual crown fork. So take this however you like. It’s not as aggressive, slack or lightweight as most others on this list.
Rocky Mountain is a Canadian brand that has been around since 1981. The brand’s bikes are designed to offer a perfect combination of performance and innovation, with a focus on cross-country, trail, and enduro riding.
Rocky Mountain offers a range of mountain bikes, including their signature Altitude and Instinct models, which are designed to handle any terrain. The brand’s frames are made from high-quality aluminum and carbon fiber, and they use components from top brands like Fox and Shimano.
Learn more at the Rocky Mountain Website.
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is a Californian brand that has been around since 1994. The brand’s bikes are designed to offer a perfect combination of performance and style, with a focus on trail, enduro and downhill riding. Santa Cruz offers a range of mountain bikes, including their signature Tallboy and Nomad models.
The brand’s frames are made from high-quality carbon fiber, and they use components from top brands like SRAM, Shimano and Fox. As you can guess from the name, this is an American brand with manufacturing located within the US. That’s reflected not only in the price but also in quality.
Learn more at santacruzbicycles.com or check for current deals at Competitive Cyclist and Jenson.
Scott
Scott is a Swiss brand that has been around since 1958. They’re one of the biggest bike / sports brands out there which is reflected in the line-up: From cross-country, trail, and enduro to downhill, Scott covers every discipline with high-quality, World Cup-proven bikes. Their signature Spark and Genius trail bike models are certainly very common on trails.
The brand’s frames are made from high-quality carbon fiber and aluminum, and they use components from top brands like Shimano and Fox.
Scott is also committed to innovation, constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible with mountain bike design (have you seen their integrated stem and handlebar?). With a focus on performance and technology, Scott is a great choice for riders who want a high-performance bike and ride in style.
Learn more at scott-sports.com.
Specialized
Specialized is an American brand that’s been around since 1974, and they’re known for producing bikes that are both innovative and high-performing. Their downhill model, the Demo, features a full carbon frame, 27.5-inch wheels, and a Fox suspension system that’s been specifically designed to provide maximum control and stability on steep descents.
Specialized offers a range of mountain bikes, including their signature Stumpjumper and Enduro models. The brand’s frames are made from high-quality carbon fiber and aluminum, and they use components from top brands like SRAM and Fox.
Their famous S-Works line is known for offering the pinnacle of what Specialized engineers can come up with. Including lighter weights, expensive materials and race-ready machines.
Learn more at specialized.com or check for current deals at Jenson and directly at Specialized.
Transition
Transition is an American brand that has been around since 2001. The brand’s bikes are designed to offer a perfect combination of performance and style, with a focus on freeride and downhill riding.
Transition offers a range of mountain bikes, including their signature TR and Patrol models, which are designed to handle the toughest terrain. The brand’s frames are made from high-quality aluminum and carbon fiber, and they use components from top brands like RockShox and Shimano.
Learn more at transitionbikes.com.
Trek
Ever heard the saying “looks like a Session”? While a mildly funny meme, there is some truth behind other brands copying the successful design of Trek’s downhill rig – which also contributed to this running gag by largely keeping a similar look over the years. The change to a high-pivot design was the biggest in years.
Trek is an American brand that has been around since 1975. They’re one of the biggest bike brands out there which is reflected in the line-up: From cross-country, trail, and enduro to downhill.
Trek offers two gravity bike models: the Session, a downhill (race) bike, and the Ticket, a more nimble freeride bike built for jumps.
The brand’s frames are made from high-quality carbon fiber and aluminum, and they use components from top brands like Fox, Shimano and SRAM.
With a focus on performance and versatility, Trek bikes have won MTB events around the globe in any discipline imaginable, building their reputation.
Learn more at trekbikes.com where they also handle their direct-to-consumer model.
YT Industries
YT Industries is a German direct-to-consumer MTB brand that’s been around since 2008 when it started with a dirtjump bike.
Since then they’ve become a major international brand known for producing bikes that are both affordable and high-performing. So much so, that they one their first DH World Cup season they entered.
Their downhill model, the Tues, has stayed the same in terms of frame and geometry for a number of years now. Paint jobs and components are varying year-over-year tho.
With a focus on performance and affordability, YT Industries is a great choice for riders who want a high-quality bike without breaking the bank.
Learn more at yt-industries.com.
Which one is your personal favorite brand? Let us know in the comments! And if you think I missed one, let me know too.
