Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 90 Frame
The Altitude Carbon 90 frame is Rocky Mountain’s versatile enduro-capable carbon platform, notable for its adjustable geometry and wheel-size compatibility that make it a flexible choice across trails and race stages. Technically it stands out for in-field tunability and value in North American markets, offering comparable stiffness to the premium frames above while often providing a better price-to-feature ratio for riders who want a do-it-all enduro frameset.
Ride-9 tweakable — chameleon
Efficient pedaling — long-haul
Ride-9 tweakable — chameleon
Efficient pedaling — long-haul
Review Summary
"Reviewers appreciate the Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 90 for its balanced blend of climbing efficiency and confident descending, with durable carbon quality; a few note the geometry is slightly conservative versus the newest long-travel platforms."
Trail-balanced — steady
Purpose-built carbon chassis with long-travel suspension tuned for enduro and aggressive trail use.
Trail-balanced — steady
Purpose-built carbon chassis with long-travel suspension tuned for enduro and aggressive trail use.
Enhanced Physical Well-Being
Recreational Enjoyment
Skill Development & Mastery
The Altitude Carbon 90 frame is Rocky Mountain’s versatile enduro-capable carbon platform, notable for its adjustable geometry and wheel-size compatibility that make it a flexible choice across trails and race stages. Technically it stands out for in-field tunability and value in North American markets, offering comparable stiffness to the premium frames above while often providing a better price-to-feature ratio for riders who want a do-it-all enduro frameset.
Ride-9 tweakable — chameleon
Efficient pedaling — long-haul
Trail-balanced — steady
Purpose-built carbon chassis with long-travel suspension tuned for enduro and aggressive trail use.
Tool-free geometry adjustment options to tailor handling and ride height to conditions and rider preference.
Ride-9 tweakable — chameleon
Efficient pedaling — long-haul
Trail-balanced — steady
Purpose-built carbon chassis with long-travel suspension tuned for enduro and aggressive trail use.
Tool-free geometry adjustment options to tailor handling and ride height to conditions and rider preference.
$4,000-5,500 CAD
The Range A frameset stands out as a best-in-class aluminum enduro platform thanks to a stout 6061 alloy construction, modern long-and-low geometry and a suspension layout tuned for big-hit stability and predictable traction. Compared with the boutique-focused frames in this list it delivers one of the strongest value propositions — broad dealer support and competitive pricing make it easier to spec and service, while still matching or exceeding the downhill composure of more expensive rivals.
Enduro-ready geometry
Burly aluminum heart
Enduro-ready geometry
Burly aluminum heart
Review Summary
"Riders praise the Norco Range A for its confident, burly handling and excellent value — reviewers note the aluminum frame is durable and well-shaped for aggressive enduro but slightly heavier than equivalent carbon builds. Overall people appreciate the predictable geometry and long-travel capability for hard charging trails."
Descends like thunder
Aluminum frameset tuned for aggressive enduro with rear travel in the ~160mm range and 170–180mm fork compatibility.
Descends like thunder
Aluminum frameset tuned for aggressive enduro with rear travel in the ~160mm range and 170–180mm fork compatibility.
Enhanced Physical Well-Being
Recreational Enjoyment
Skill Development & Mastery
The Range A frameset stands out as a best-in-class aluminum enduro platform thanks to a stout 6061 alloy construction, modern long-and-low geometry and a suspension layout tuned for big-hit stability and predictable traction. Compared with the boutique-focused frames in this list it delivers one of the strongest value propositions — broad dealer support and competitive pricing make it easier to spec and service, while still matching or exceeding the downhill composure of more expensive rivals.
Enduro-ready geometry
Burly aluminum heart
Descends like thunder
Aluminum frameset tuned for aggressive enduro with rear travel in the ~160mm range and 170–180mm fork compatibility.
Progressive geometry with long reach and a slack head angle for high-speed stability and steep descents.
Enduro-ready geometry
Burly aluminum heart
Descends like thunder
Aluminum frameset tuned for aggressive enduro with rear travel in the ~160mm range and 170–180mm fork compatibility.
Progressive geometry with long reach and a slack head angle for high-speed stability and steep descents.
$2,000-2,700 CAD
The Alchemy Arktos 150 is the technical standout for riders who want a purpose-built 150mm-class enduro titanium frameset with refined suspension kinematics and a tuned ride feel; it blends modern geo and engineered linkage performance that targets aggressive trail use. Compared to the raw durability of Moots or the lower-priced Why and Chumba offerings, Arktos commands a mid-to-high price but rewards riders with focused suspension performance and a polished, performance-first specification.
150mm pop — playful bounce
Burly titanium — smash-proof
150mm pop — playful bounce
Burly titanium — smash-proof
Review Summary
"The Alchemy Arktos 150 is widely celebrated for marrying long-travel capability with a remarkably composed, lightweight titanium chassis, delivering confident descending without losing pedaling efficiency; reviewers mention price and limited availability but almost universally praise its ride. Enthusiasts call it a standout titanium enduro frameset."
Kinematic tune — mischievous flick
Titanium chassis paired with ~150mm rear travel tuned for efficient climbing and confident descending
Kinematic tune — mischievous flick
Titanium chassis paired with ~150mm rear travel tuned for efficient climbing and confident descending
Recreational Enjoyment
Skill Development & Mastery
Enhanced Physical Well-Being
The Alchemy Arktos 150 is the technical standout for riders who want a purpose-built 150mm-class enduro titanium frameset with refined suspension kinematics and a tuned ride feel; it blends modern geo and engineered linkage performance that targets aggressive trail use. Compared to the raw durability of Moots or the lower-priced Why and Chumba offerings, Arktos commands a mid-to-high price but rewards riders with focused suspension performance and a polished, performance-first specification.
150mm pop — playful bounce
Burly titanium — smash-proof
Kinematic tune — mischievous flick
Titanium chassis paired with ~150mm rear travel tuned for efficient climbing and confident descending
Lightweight yet durable construction that resists corrosion and soaks trail chatter
150mm pop — playful bounce
Burly titanium — smash-proof
Kinematic tune — mischievous flick
Titanium chassis paired with ~150mm rear travel tuned for efficient climbing and confident descending
Lightweight yet durable construction that resists corrosion and soaks trail chatter
$9,000-11,500 CAD
Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 90 Frame
The Altitude Carbon 90 balances aggressive 29-inch enduro geometry with Rocky Mountain's adjustable setup, giving riders a tunable platform that can be optimized for steep descents or faster climbs. Its value proposition is strong for North American buyers because the platform often includes user-adjustable geometry and highly efficient carbon layups at a slightly lower MSRP than the ultra-premium models. Against the Megatower and S-Works, the Altitude emphasizes configurability and bang-for-buck for riders who want a race-capable frame without the very top-tier price.
Efficient climber — pump-happy
Balanced handling — zen-stable
Efficient climber — pump-happy
Balanced handling — zen-stable
Review Summary
"Riders like the Altitude Carbon 90 for its tunable Ride-9 geometry, efficient pedaling and composed handling across varied terrain; common negatives are its cost and that it can be heavier than some competitors."
Lightweight carbon — pocket rocket
Carbon frame engineered for 29" wheels with a balance of pedaling efficiency and descending capability.
Lightweight carbon — pocket rocket
Carbon frame engineered for 29" wheels with a balance of pedaling efficiency and descending capability.
Enhanced Physical Well-Being
Time-Saving Convenience
Skill Development & Mastery
The Altitude Carbon 90 balances aggressive 29-inch enduro geometry with Rocky Mountain's adjustable setup, giving riders a tunable platform that can be optimized for steep descents or faster climbs. Its value proposition is strong for North American buyers because the platform often includes user-adjustable geometry and highly efficient carbon layups at a slightly lower MSRP than the ultra-premium models. Against the Megatower and S-Works, the Altitude emphasizes configurability and bang-for-buck for riders who want a race-capable frame without the very top-tier price.
Efficient climber — pump-happy
Balanced handling — zen-stable
Lightweight carbon — pocket rocket
Carbon frame engineered for 29" wheels with a balance of pedaling efficiency and descending capability.
Adjustable geometry settings to tailor head angle and bottom bracket for mixed trail or aggressive runs.
Efficient climber — pump-happy
Balanced handling — zen-stable
Lightweight carbon — pocket rocket
Carbon frame engineered for 29" wheels with a balance of pedaling efficiency and descending capability.
Adjustable geometry settings to tailor head angle and bottom bracket for mixed trail or aggressive runs.
$3,500-4,500 CAD
Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon Frame
The Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon is a versatile 27.5-inch enduro frameset that pairs a lightweight carbon layup with adjustable geometry (Ride-9) to balance climbing efficiency and aggressive descending. Its technical adaptability and typically more accessible pricing make it a compelling value compared with premium CC-grade frames like the Santa Cruz Bronson, giving riders tunable handling without the top-tier price premium.
Effortless climbs—goat-mode
Plush small-bump soak
Effortless climbs—goat-mode
Plush small-bump soak
Review Summary
"Riders praise the Altitude Carbon for its lively yet efficient pedaling, confident geometry and composed handling across varied terrain; criticisms are primarily its premium price and that the ride can feel firm for some setups."
High-speed stability
Carbon mainframe tuned for a balance of climbing efficiency and descending strength
High-speed stability
Carbon mainframe tuned for a balance of climbing efficiency and descending strength
Enhanced Physical Well-Being
Recreational Enjoyment
Skill Development & Mastery
The Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon is a versatile 27.5-inch enduro frameset that pairs a lightweight carbon layup with adjustable geometry (Ride-9) to balance climbing efficiency and aggressive descending. Its technical adaptability and typically more accessible pricing make it a compelling value compared with premium CC-grade frames like the Santa Cruz Bronson, giving riders tunable handling without the top-tier price premium.
Effortless climbs—goat-mode
Plush small-bump soak
High-speed stability
Carbon mainframe tuned for a balance of climbing efficiency and descending strength
Multi-position geometry adjustment for fine‑tuning head angle and BB height
Effortless climbs—goat-mode
Plush small-bump soak
High-speed stability
Carbon mainframe tuned for a balance of climbing efficiency and descending strength
Multi-position geometry adjustment for fine‑tuning head angle and BB height
$3,000-4,500 CAD
Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon Frame
The Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon Frame earns market-leader recognition for its refined carbon layup and pedaling-to-descending balance, giving riders a lighter, stiffer platform that pairs exceptionally well with coil shocks for smooth, controlled traction on long descents. While it typically carries a premium over aluminum or smaller-brand frames, its refined stiffness-to-weight and tunability make it a technical step up from value-focused options like the Norco or WAO Arrival and an appealing choice for riders who prioritize efficiency without sacrificing enduro capability.
Geometry chameleon
Featherweight rocket
Geometry chameleon
Featherweight rocket
Review Summary
"The Altitude Carbon is celebrated for its efficient pedaling, versatile geometry and premium build quality; reviewers consistently note excellent climbing and descending performance, with price being the main downside."
Precision cornering
Full-carbon frameset engineered for stable high-speed handling and precise cornering.
Precision cornering
Full-carbon frameset engineered for stable high-speed handling and precise cornering.
Skill Development & Mastery
Recreational Enjoyment
Time-Saving Convenience
The Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon Frame earns market-leader recognition for its refined carbon layup and pedaling-to-descending balance, giving riders a lighter, stiffer platform that pairs exceptionally well with coil shocks for smooth, controlled traction on long descents. While it typically carries a premium over aluminum or smaller-brand frames, its refined stiffness-to-weight and tunability make it a technical step up from value-focused options like the Norco or WAO Arrival and an appealing choice for riders who prioritize efficiency without sacrificing enduro capability.
Geometry chameleon
Featherweight rocket
Precision cornering
Full-carbon frameset engineered for stable high-speed handling and precise cornering.
Compatible with coil shocks and metric air shocks with tidy internal routing for a clean build.
Geometry chameleon
Featherweight rocket
Precision cornering
Full-carbon frameset engineered for stable high-speed handling and precise cornering.
Compatible with coil shocks and metric air shocks with tidy internal routing for a clean build.
$2,500-3,500 CAD
Forbidden Dreadnought XT Frameset
The Forbidden Dreadnought XT frameset delivers aggressive geometry and big-hit capability with an included shock at a notably more accessible price point, making it the best value choice for enduro riders who want modern performance without the highest MSRP. Technically it favors raw descending aggression over the polished balance of Yeti or Santa Cruz, giving buyers superior performance-per-dollar versus the boutique incumbents.
Massive composure
Gnar-plowing power
Massive composure
Gnar-plowing power
Review Summary
"Riders applaud the Dreadnought XT for its raw downhill capability, tunable suspension character and unique ride feel; drawbacks mentioned include noticeable weight, boutique support channels and a premium price tag."
Mullet-ready mayhem
High-pivot layout providing superior traction and rollover at speed
Mullet-ready mayhem
High-pivot layout providing superior traction and rollover at speed
Recreational Enjoyment
Enhanced Physical Well-Being
Skill Development & Mastery
The Forbidden Dreadnought XT frameset delivers aggressive geometry and big-hit capability with an included shock at a notably more accessible price point, making it the best value choice for enduro riders who want modern performance without the highest MSRP. Technically it favors raw descending aggression over the polished balance of Yeti or Santa Cruz, giving buyers superior performance-per-dollar versus the boutique incumbents.
Massive composure
Gnar-plowing power
Mullet-ready mayhem
High-pivot layout providing superior traction and rollover at speed
~170mm rear travel and durable carbon construction
Massive composure
Gnar-plowing power
Mullet-ready mayhem
High-pivot layout providing superior traction and rollover at speed
~170mm rear travel and durable carbon construction
$3,000-4,000 CAD
Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 90
The Altitude Carbon 90 is a market leader for riders who need a balanced race machine that still climbs efficiently thanks to its tunable geometry and mature carbon construction. Its versatility and dealer support deliver higher resale value and easier factory-level servicing compared with smaller direct-to-rider brands, making it a financially sensible choice for racers who also log long transfer climbs. Compared to the more downhill-biased Forbidden and Norco Range, the Altitude is the more all-day race tool; compared to We Are One and Devinci it benefits from wider parts availability and a proven adjustment ecosystem.
Big-hit stability
Balanced climber
Big-hit stability
Balanced climber
Review Summary
"The Altitude Carbon 90 is lauded for its versatile, race-capable handling and adjustable geometry that climbs well and descends fast. Minor complaints focus on price and occasional finish or spec quibbles."
Corner-hugging confidence
Carbon frameset engineered around fast, low-slung race geometry for confident high-speed handling.
Corner-hugging confidence
Carbon frameset engineered around fast, low-slung race geometry for confident high-speed handling.
Skill Development & Mastery
Recreational Enjoyment
Enhanced Physical Well-Being
The Altitude Carbon 90 is a market leader for riders who need a balanced race machine that still climbs efficiently thanks to its tunable geometry and mature carbon construction. Its versatility and dealer support deliver higher resale value and easier factory-level servicing compared with smaller direct-to-rider brands, making it a financially sensible choice for racers who also log long transfer climbs. Compared to the more downhill-biased Forbidden and Norco Range, the Altitude is the more all-day race tool; compared to We Are One and Devinci it benefits from wider parts availability and a proven adjustment ecosystem.
Big-hit stability
Balanced climber
Corner-hugging confidence
Carbon frameset engineered around fast, low-slung race geometry for confident high-speed handling.
Multi-position geometry adjustment (flip-chip/adjustable headset) to fine-tune head/seat angles and BB height.
Big-hit stability
Balanced climber
Corner-hugging confidence
Carbon frameset engineered around fast, low-slung race geometry for confident high-speed handling.
Multi-position geometry adjustment (flip-chip/adjustable headset) to fine-tune head/seat angles and BB height.
$3300-4200 CAD
Forbidden Dreadnought
Forbidden's Dreadnought stands out as a purpose-built high-pivot enduro frameset, using an idler-driven layout and long travel geometry to maximize rear-wheel traction and small-bump compliance on steep descents. It earns its best-in-class spot by delivering race-oriented kinematics and tunability that more directly target the high-pivot benefits than the more generalist or downhill-centric frames in this list, albeit at a premium price that reflects its specialized engineering. Compared with the more versatile or value-oriented alternatives here, the Dreadnought prioritizes descending performance and frame refinement for riders chasing high-pivot advantages without compromise.
Ultra high-pivot
Gravity-stable ride
Ultra high-pivot
Gravity-stable ride
Review Summary
"The Forbidden Dreadnought is widely praised for its brutally confident high-pivot geometry and downhill prowess, giving riders exceptional stability and traction at speed; long-term owners note the bike is heavy and the idler/maintenance demands are higher than a conventional layout. Overall it's celebrated as a purpose-built enduro/frame for aggressive riders who prioritize descending performance."
Floats like hovercraft
Carbon high‑pivot chassis with long rear travel tuned for aggressive enduro riding.
Floats like hovercraft
Carbon high‑pivot chassis with long rear travel tuned for aggressive enduro riding.
Recreational Enjoyment
Skill Development & Mastery
Enhanced Physical Well-Being
Forbidden's Dreadnought stands out as a purpose-built high-pivot enduro frameset, using an idler-driven layout and long travel geometry to maximize rear-wheel traction and small-bump compliance on steep descents. It earns its best-in-class spot by delivering race-oriented kinematics and tunability that more directly target the high-pivot benefits than the more generalist or downhill-centric frames in this list, albeit at a premium price that reflects its specialized engineering. Compared with the more versatile or value-oriented alternatives here, the Dreadnought prioritizes descending performance and frame refinement for riders chasing high-pivot advantages without compromise.
Ultra high-pivot
Gravity-stable ride
Floats like hovercraft
Carbon high‑pivot chassis with long rear travel tuned for aggressive enduro riding.
Idler‑driven layout isolates chain forces to improve traction, braking stability, and small‑bump sensitivity.
Ultra high-pivot
Gravity-stable ride
Floats like hovercraft
Carbon high‑pivot chassis with long rear travel tuned for aggressive enduro riding.
Idler‑driven layout isolates chain forces to improve traction, braking stability, and small‑bump sensitivity.
$4,500-6,500 CAD