Borealis Crestone Elite

Field Notes: No other Fat Bike came in even close in the weight department to the Borealis Crestone Elite, weighing in at a ridiculous 24lbs. And the ride immediately reflected the lack of bulk – we were whipping this bike around like it had cyclocross tires on it, not the 4-inchers it comes with (other size options available). It was actually a bit scary at times because we rode this bike like we were racing, but the rugged New England trails had plenty of boulders and roots to remind us that it’s still a full-rigid bike.

Pros: Extremely lightweight and exceptionally fast in sprints and hills, and scary-quick through the tightest turns, thanks to an ultralight high-modulus monocoque carbon Fat Bike frame and Borealis’ own carbon rims. Even better is the excellent compliance in the rear end, making the ride much smoother than the other bikes in the group. It’s also spec’d with the best of the best, including SRAM’s XX1 11-speed drivetrain and the uber-efficient Race Face Next SL carbon cranks, along with Race Face carbon post and bars. We also absolutely loved the SRAM Guide brakes and levers, which are far too seldom spec’d on factory bikes – the action is smooth and supple, with outstanding modulation and plenty of power to stop a Fattie. Finally, as a build-to-order bike, you can swap components, wheels and/or forks to fit your style (prices may vary).

Cons: This is a tough one with a supreme bike like this. The price is the highest in our group, albeit not an unfair price considering the overall quality. Also, with its racy geometry, we’d be a bit wary to bring this rig on gnarlier trails, especially with technical descents. 

Tester Quote: “24 pounds… WHAT? This Fat Bike is lighter than my full-suspension XC bike with normal tires! And it’s every bit as quick and explosive.”

Key Attribute: Weight 

Bottom Line: If money is not a concern, and you want the craftsmanship and quality only a hand-built-to-order carbon machine can provide – and you have every intention of riding really fast – the Crestone Elite is your bike. Weather it’s the Leadville 100 or the Iditasport 200, this bike can race with the best of them, regardless of wheel and tire width.