You're chasing long flowy and technical descents, and want to pedal back to the top for more, lap after lap. You want the vibration-damping benefits of a carbon frame and carbon wheels, plus upgraded suspension that smooths out the rough and rowdy.

The tech you get

A light and stiff carbon frame with a full FOX Performance suspension package that smooths out rowdy rock gardens and root latices. Plus, carbon wheels that keep your set-up light, while a Shimano XT drivetrain for smooth shifting and brake modulation. Finally, you'll find adjustable geometry and in-frame storage for keeping your set-up dialled just for you.

Why you'll love it

• You'll get the light weight and vibration-damping benefits of a full carbon frame, and geometry built to handle anything
• It comes with light and stiff carbon wheels that make quick work of technical terrain and keep you on your line, even when things get hairy
• With the adjustable angle headset (angled cups sold separately) and Mino Link, you can choose from six different geometry configurations
• We expanded our size range to ensure a better fit for all riders, and use the best-fitting wheels for each frame size: XS frames get 27.5˝ wheels, S frames get to choose between 27.5˝ or 29˝, and sizes M and up get 29˝ wheels
• You get the precise shifting and brake modulation of a Shimano XT drivetrain, plus the simple reliability of a threaded bottom bracket

The final word

The Fuel EX 9.8 is the culmination of years of trail riding and progression, with longer front end geometry for tackling steeper and hairier descents, and a steeper seat tube to keep you perched on climbs. It's equipped with the cherry-picked components you want, like upgraded suspension, carbon wheels and a Shimano XT drivetrain.