Marin Rift Zone 2

The Rift Zone 2 packs in the performance without emptying your wallet. Feel epic riding its 130mm MultiTrac suspension, shared with the range-toppers. The Series 3 Aluminum frame tames tight forest lines and open singletrack. X-Fusion's travel-adjustable dropper is matched with jaw-dropping kit from Marzocchi, Shimano and Maxxis.

Don't let the price tag fool you, the Rift Zone's kit is ready to thump and hammer or pop and glide down the trail. Marzocchi's 140mm travel Bomber Z2 fork is plush and controlled, and a perfect match to the new custom-tuned Bomber shock out back. Our latest addition, X-Fusion's travel-adjustable HC dropper seat post, will help you dial in the bike's fit for your proportions. Shimano's 12-speed Deore drivetrain shifts crisply, while we've amped up the traction with Maxxis's grippiest MaxxGrip Assegai up front and faster-rolling MaxxTerra Minion DHR II out back – both in EXO+ casing – round out the 10-out-of-10 spec list.

Our Series 3 Aluminum Rift Zone is a workhorse disguised as a beauty queen. It's got sleek, smooth lines and all the features you'll love. The front triangle has space for a ride-extending bottle, innertube and tools, or whatever else you want to bolt to its bosses. Cables route internally via our meticulously designed ports. Combined with the chunky chainstay protector, the Rifty's ride is as hushed as a whisper – unless you're yelling with joy at the top of your voice. SRAM's Universal Derailleur Hanger sits out back – replacements are widely available in case you get a little too wild.

Like spreading butter, our 130mm travel MultiTrac suspension smooths out the worst of the trail's imperfections while amping up the pop when you want to get airborne or really send it. On the Rift Zone 2, it's backed by a custom-tuned, super-sensitive and balanced Marzocchi Bomber Air shock that's ready for anything you can throw at it.

Balancing laughs, line choice and confidence-fueled moves, the Rift Zone's geometry is its ace in the hole. A calming 65.5-degree headtube angle and roomy reach figures combine with a playful 430mm chainstay for a personality-morphing ride. Weight the front of the bike for a tail-happy drift session or lean back for plenty of planted confidence.

The Rift Zone gives you two paths to fun: 27.5" wheels for endorphin-boosting agility or 29" wheels for grin-inducing high-speed thrills and better bump rollover.