Spark Race Bike Only ?

[vcyclist]

Is the Spark considered a race bike only or a worthy trail bike as well? I currently ride an Ellsworth Evolve 4" travel 29 er and consider it more of an all arounder ride. What are you thoughts on this?

[brentos]

My experience is with the Spark 29er.

It does well as a trail bike and shines as a race bike. The middle suspension setting is perfect for racing. In fact it's the only 29er full suspension I've ridden that I felt I would be comfortable racing.

If I wasn't racing I'd probably opt for something that better balances plushness with pedaling efficiency without switching shock modes. I think some others make better trail bikes, but I felt they fell far short as race bikes. If you race at all, I'd get the Spark. If I never raced I'd probably look elsewhere.