06/20/2022 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/21/2022 02:37
The death knell of the humble hardtail has been tolled many a time, with lower-cost full suspension technology and the rise of the gravel bike being listed as causes.
And yet the category is still going strong in 2022, with plenty of us still favouring the simplicity of a front fork-only setup and in many cases, the hardtail just being the right tool for the job in hand.
So whether you are looking for a beginner mountain bike or a classic thrill seeking trail muncher, we will break down the best hardtail mountain bikes for 2022!
Best Hardtail Mountain Bikes 2022
Why choose a hardtail mountain bike?
The hardtail MTB category in 2022 is a broad church, ranging from long, slack gravity fun machines to lightweight and aggressive XC racers.
Finally, there's the enjoyment factor: many riders enjoy the hardtails basic simplicity, the feeling of being linked to the trail, and the old-school, grin-inducing delight of tearing up the trails with a rigid rear.
Ultimately, the right mountain bike for you will come down to what kind of riding you plan on using it for, and of course your budget.
Our Best Hardtail Mountain Bikes - 2022
After years of riding bikes and with the knowledge of what makes a good and bad ride, we have spent time getting our hands on the best hardtail mountain bikes and putting them through the ringer so you don't have too.
We've taken into consideration price, specification and that riding feel to bring you the best hardtail MTB for 2022!
Vitus Nucleus VR 29
A bike that needs no introduction, the Vitus Nucleus has been voted the best Hardtail of the Year four times in a row by MBR Magazine. The no fuss bike is built to shred the trails using a lightweight aluminium frame coupled with reliable and high quality components all at a price point to suit any wallet.
Verdict: The best budget hardtail
Cube Analog 2022
Remodeled for 2022, the Cube Analog is a bike designed for pacing uphills and blasting the downhills. Using a lightweight yet stiff Aluminium Lite frame coupled with the 29″ Cube ZX20 wheelset which gives you the feeling of confidence that no hill is an obstacle as it climbs superbly.
For the downhills, this Cube Analog is fitted with the shock absorbing RockShox Judy, whilst the geometry may not be a progressive as other competitors it is only really felt on the really steep sections. Should you need to stop in time the Shimano BR-MT200 brakes will ensure you stop in plenty of time.
Verdict: The best hardtail under £1000
Nukeproof Scout 290 Race
The only hardtail in the Nukeproof range is one not to be missed. The Nukeproof Scout comes in both a 27.5″ and 29″ and available in three different specifications. We have chosen the Nukeproof Scout Race 290 to go into our list of the best hardtail MTB.
Featuring super modern enduro-inspired geometry, the Scout is responsive and predictable letting you ride loose and free on the singletrack in confidence. The hardtail features a low bottom bracket, slack head angle and stiff frame which provides a robust and versatile riding experience.
Coupling all the frame and geometry benefits with the excellent range of components makes this, the Nukeproof Scout, an ultimate hardtail mountain bike.
Verdict: Best Hardtail Mountain Bike under £1500
Ragley Blue Pig 27.5″
It may be priced in the same bracket as many well-capable full suspension bikes, but the Ragley Blue Pig is a beast of a bike. Combining an almost flawless component list along with a rowdy geometry that makes the Blue Pig the ultimate trail trashing hardtail.
Ideal for all-mountain riding like enduro sessions, rough terrain and demanding singletrack the Ragley Blue Pig uses a durable steel frame, a quality Shimano drivetrain and a superbly capable RockShox Yari front fork.
Verdict: Best Hardtail Mountain Bike under £2000
Best Hardtail Mountain Bike - Round Up
Don't have time to read the full reviews on the bikes? Don't fear we've picked our best hardtail mtb's put them into an easy table!
Is your hardtail MTB setup correctly?
If you're new to cycling or aren't sure how to set up your new mountain bike, we've got you covered. Here are a few simple questions to ponder…
Do any of these examples ring true for you? Then read our article on the five ways your mountain bike setup is wrong.
Check out some of our other relevant articles!