Over the past two decades, I've put trail bikes through their paces, consistently pushing the boundaries of performance. Now, only one bike can claim the title of 2025's Trail Bike of the Year...
In MBR's 2025 Trail Bike of the Year review, four top-tier full suspension mountain bikes were tested and reviewed. These bikes, hailing from direct sales brands YT, Canyon, Propain, and Privateer, are all 29er bikes with 140-150mm suspension travel and retail prices around £4,000.
The test highlighted the quality, performance, and value for money of each bike, with each catering to different priorities within the price range.
Privateer 141 (£3,949)
The Privateer 141, priced at £3,949, blurs the line between trail and enduro. It boasts a claimed 141mm of rear wheel travel and a full aluminium frame with oversized pivots and a beefy rocker link. The bike's steep seat tube angle puts the rider in a great position for climbing, while its Fox 36 fork and Float X shock ensure a solid, fluid ride. The Privateer 141 is equipped with stock Maxxis tyres and powerful Hayes Dominion 4-piston brakes.
Propain Hugene 2 CF 29 (£4,335)
Priced at £4,335, the Propain Hugene 2 CF 29 is the lightest bike on test, weighing in at just 14kg. With a full carbon frame, it offers a downhill-like feel. The bike's twin-link suspension design ensures excellent pedaling efficiency, making it a strong contender for trail riders.
Canyon Spectral CF 9 (£4,699)
The Canyon Spectral CF 9, priced at £4,699, offers the latest SRAM wireless AXS transmission for improved gear shifting under load. Its full carbon frame features internal downtube storage, external tool storage, KIS steering control, and adjustable geometry. The bike's pedaling efficiency and speed on descents are noteworthy, thanks to its ultimate level RockShox Lyrik fork and Super Deluxe shock.
YT Jeffsy Core 3 AL (£4,500)
Priced at £4,500, the YT Jeffsy Core 3 AL has a frame sizing, proportions, and geometry that are all first rate, slanted towards downhill more than climbing. The bike's perfectly tuned RockShox Ultimate level suspension components make it feel like an extension of the rider's body. The YT Jeffsy has been one of the best trail bikes of the past five years, and the new alloy frame doesn't disappoint.
These bikes represent strong contenders from Germany and the UK, delivering high value in the direct sales category of the Trail Bike of the Year 2025 test. For a detailed breakdown, MBR's full video review from August 8, 2025, is the best resource for specifications, ride feel, and comparative performance of these top direct-sales full suspension mountain bikes.
- Each bike, including the Privateer 141, Propain Hugene 2 CF 29, Canyon Spectral CF 9, and YT Jeffsy Core 3 AL, showcases distinct features suitable for sports like enduro and trail riding, with helmets and durable tyres being essential equipment for these adventures.
- Among the test bikes, the Propain Hugene 2 CF 29, priced at £4,335, stands out for its full carbon frame, sports a twin-link suspension design, and offers a lightweight build compared to the others, with full suspension and sports performance being its key features.
