Vitus Rapide CRX, nero/verde

No need to lay it on thick or exaggerate, just have fun and get the job done. The joy of this proven race-ready carbon hardtail is that it easily meets the demands of cross-country, with stiffness that converts power instantly into trail speed and obedient handling that gives you back precious seconds.

The lightweight carbon frame is equipped with components that are dialled for performance. Rockshox SID Ultimate forks can be instantly locked out with the OneLoc remote so that you can carry speed up and over climbs and a full Shimano XT groupset is a knowing sign that this bike is tuned to race. If you want to go chasing for the front of the pack then this bike has the pedigree. But it’s pointless being able to smoke the climbs if the bike then lets you down in the descent, because XC racing is about having the all-round edge and you need a bike that can rail the racing line. And that’s what makes it fun, right? Racing on a bike that feels fast and delivers for you as a rider.

When you need acceleration and traction they are available and when you hit the technical stuff and the nervy descents the control and balance keep the handling honest. You’re less tense. Looser, fresher and less fatigued. A lightweight hardtail, yes, but the Rapide CRX brings both comfort and performance.