Here's a weirdo single bike opinion, and it's what I ride 70% of the time:
Nimble geo, crazy grip, pedals somewhere between a xc and trail bike, near bulletproof, and makes makes any trail interesting.
Aggressive-ish geo rigid fat bike
Jumbo jim speedgrip tires (26x4.8)
Tubeless with inserts made from 4" backing rod
Big brakes (MT5 or Dominion)
170mm dropper
Shoer stem.
That bike has done Iceman (really well given the sandy conditions), an Enduro race (less well), normal downhill (surprisingly entertaining but a bit rough), sandy downhill (ridiculous fun, best possible bike for The Trooper at Boyne Highlands), XC races, and hundreds of miles of trail riding in between. Oh and it does snow. Only time I grab my hardtail anymore is for fast flow trails.
Inserts and ultra light tires make it all possible. Fat with low pressure provides the grip, float, and comfort. Supple casing provides the speed, inserts add stability and protect the wheels. Big brakes and dropper add fun.
April 14, 2023, 7:18 a.m. - Hi_Im_Will
Here's a weirdo single bike opinion, and it's what I ride 70% of the time: Nimble geo, crazy grip, pedals somewhere between a xc and trail bike, near bulletproof, and makes makes any trail interesting. Aggressive-ish geo rigid fat bike Jumbo jim speedgrip tires (26x4.8) Tubeless with inserts made from 4" backing rod Big brakes (MT5 or Dominion) 170mm dropper Shoer stem. That bike has done Iceman (really well given the sandy conditions), an Enduro race (less well), normal downhill (surprisingly entertaining but a bit rough), sandy downhill (ridiculous fun, best possible bike for The Trooper at Boyne Highlands), XC races, and hundreds of miles of trail riding in between. Oh and it does snow. Only time I grab my hardtail anymore is for fast flow trails. Inserts and ultra light tires make it all possible. Fat with low pressure provides the grip, float, and comfort. Supple casing provides the speed, inserts add stability and protect the wheels. Big brakes and dropper add fun.