Fuji Bighorn 1.1

Field Notes: We rode the Fuji Bighorn 1.1 alongside a heavier, lower priced option in the same 27.5 Plus Trail hardtail category and despite the other bike’s relative quality, the differences were fairly obvious in weight and descending ability. The conditions were perfect – lots of gravel climbs to test the plus-size tire traction, and our fair share of hits on the descent to gauge the bike’s suspension and ride quality. Suffice it to say, we had a hard time breaking out the full-suspension bikes in the test after having so much fun on this one.

Tester Comment: “Fuji continues to impress with their high-value bikes – I’d certainly buy this Fuji bike over many higher priced bikes I’ve tested. There’s really no downside to this rig.”

Pros: Great spec for the money, including a full Shimano 1x11-speed XT build, a high-end FOX 32 fork and a well-built frame with a balanced geometry. This combination allows the bike to climb and handle well without sacrificing descending. The FOX fork combines long-travel plushness with sensitive small-bump absorption.

Cons: Overall there were few cons on the Bighorn 1.1: The weight could be lowered by a pound or so to put it in contention with carbon bikes in this category, but this would be tough without raising the price. A bit steep in the front end, which can be an issue without dropping seatpost.

Key Attribute: Components

Bottom Line: This is one of our favorite overall packages, combining excellent quality and high-end spec for a relatively low price: it’s basically a high-end bike at a mid-level price. If you’re looking for a hardtail that can climb like an XC bike and descend with the best hardtails out there, look no further. The combination of the fat 3” tires with a balanced hardtail geometry and great fork gives this bike all-around performance for all but the most extreme conditions. It’s not a racing bike and you’re not going to slay a downhill course, but on pretty much everything in between, you’ll have a lot of fun.