10 Best Mountain Bikes of 2012

Diamondback Mission Pro

Diamondback’s Mission Pro is currently only offered as a frameset, but that means a custom build that perfectly suits any rider’s style. Diamondback built The Mission Pro with their exclusive Knuckle Box single-pivot four-bar suspension platform that sits low in the frame to lower a rider’s center of gravity. Lower air pressure in the rear shock means lower frame loading that results in longer shock life, and the tapered head tube enhances steering and strength with long-travel forks for superb downhill riding. Good luck finding a trail this frame can’t handle. ($1,850 (frame); diamondback.com)