Turner Flux 4.0

Field Notes: We had the distinct pleasure of testing the Turner Flux 4.0 on some bluebird Colorado days this winter, on some notoriously tricky terrain. The trails offered everything possible to provide a kick-ass test for this XC/Trail hybrid, including ice, mud, huge drops, killer climbs and seemingly endless rock gardens. As one of the lightest bikes in its category, the Flux offered some relief on the long climbs – not to mention giving our lowlander lungs a much-needed break. It was surprisingly nimble on the descents as well, although a bit more travel and/or some wider rubber would have been welcomed in the serious gnar.

Tester Comment: “I was a bit concerned that the Flux was a bit too pricey, but what you get for the money is really two bikes in one: a race-ready XC rig and a fully capable Trail bike.”

Pros: The biggest pro on this bike is the exquisitely designed full-carbon frame – something Turner is renowned for, since they only build a small number of bikes. The frame offers great efficiency thanks to its relative light weight and lateral stiffness, but it also features a geometry that puts the rider in a better position to handle bumpy descents and medium drops. And the 1x12 Eagle components seal the deal – nothing out there offers this combination of gear range and ease of use.

Cons: There are precious few issues with this bike, so take these with a grain of salt. The bike is definitely not cheap: $5,500 gets you the base model, with SRAM GX components, which are mid-level. The top-end will run you nearly $7,000. We’re not saying it’s not worth it, but it’s a lot to spend. Also, compared to more Trail-centric bikes, this one lacks some of the descending capabilities.

Key Attribute: Stiffness/Efficiency

Bottom Line: The Turner Flux 4.0 is a highly impressive all-around bike that can handle XC riding as well as Trail with almost equal aplomb, although it leans toward the XC side. While it’s a high-priced bike, the value comes from the extreme care this small brand puts into the frames, and the high-end cutting edge spec, including SRAM’s Eagle component (optional). A modern geometry combines aspects of Trail, like a 67.5-degree headtube for more confident descending, with those of XC, like a super-stiff bottom bracket and front end for quickness and handling. Long-proven DW-Link suspension means a stable and efficient platform that also offers surprising plushness when needed.