Diamondback

Release 1 Mountain Bike

Diamondback is often that brand that's associated with our well-loved first mountain bike. It's a brand that's got a reputation for producing reliable and durable bikes that last seasons on end, and that's true for their Release 1 model, too. The Diamondback Release is the company's overall top trail bike, and it's designed to tackle everything from rolling singletracks to punchy climbs.

The Release 1 shows that a good mountain bike isn't always about spending the most money. The bike's aluminum construction cuts costs, but it also saves weight and makes for an overall lighter design. In combination, the SRAM SX Eagle groupset offers supreme stability and stopping power to inspire confidence on trails. As a result, we've got a light yet tough ride that will tackle climbs easily and handle descents smoothly.

It's built with a Level Link suspension platform, like its counterparts the 29 2 and Catch full-suspension bikes. On the Release 1, the Level Link design isolates chain forces from trail inputs, which means you'll see much less of a wave when you're hopping on your pedals, but not so much that you'll feel rigidity when you hit roots and rocks. This is a highly coveted construction that delivers support when you need it. Riders will see a response on climbs as well as descents.

This model has a fairly standard head-tube length and a reasonably long reach, so you'll have more power and control through corners thanks to your weight over the bike. Riders will benefit from being placed in a centered position over the bikes, which supports fast turns and technical handling. Hydraulic disc brakes will come in clutch on the descents you're rewarded with post-climb.