In a significant move for the cycling industry, Allied Cycle Works has introduced a revolutionary new trail bike, the Fitz, aiming to reverse the trend of ever-heavier mountain bikes. This launch challenges established norms by delivering a high-performance, full-suspension bike that prioritizes minimal weight without compromising capability. It offers a fresh perspective for riders seeking agility and efficiency on the trails, signaling a potential shift in design philosophy across the industry. The company's commitment to innovation is evident in the meticulous engineering and component selection that went into creating this featherlight yet robust machine.
Allied Fitz: Redefining Trail Bike Performance
Fayetteville, Arkansas — Allied Cycle Works, a brand renowned for its performance-oriented bicycles, has officially unveiled its groundbreaking Fitz trail bike. This new model, developed and rigorously tested on the dynamic trails of Bentonville, Arkansas, aims to bring back the era of lightweight trail riding. Sam Pickman, the Director of Product and Engineering at Allied Cycle Works, highlighted a prevailing industry trend: “Trail bikes have become rather hefty over the last decade.” He further elaborated on the gap left by the disappearance of lightweight trail bikes, a void that the Fitz is designed to fill.
The Fitz boasts 140mm of suspension travel both front and rear, yet its top-tier configuration — featuring a premium XX SL build — tips the scales at an astonishingly low 26 pounds. This model is available for $11,400. Even the more accessible GX build, priced at $6,900, maintains a competitive weight of 28 pounds, positioning it as one of the lightest options in its class. Allied's commitment to weight reduction is further exemplified by the Fitz frame, which, including the shock, weighs under six pounds.
Compared to other high-end trail bikes with similar travel from prominent brands, which often exceed 30 pounds, the Fitz stands out. For instance, the $11,000 Yeti SB140 XX Turq weighs 30.13lb, and the S-Works Stumpjumper 15, also priced at $11,000, comes in at 29.89lb. While the Orbea Occam SL claims an even lighter weight at just over 24lb, the Fitz remains a strong contender in the ultra-lightweight trail bike segment.
The Fitz integrates modern trail bike geometry, featuring a slack 64.5° head tube angle and extended reach measurements, ensuring both confident descending and efficient climbing. It offers versatility with the option to increase suspension travel to 150mm. Crafted from carbon fiber, the Fitz includes a practical in-frame storage compartment with magnetic closure and accommodates 29-inch tires up to 2.6 inches wide. The bike's name, 'Fitz,' pays homage to the revered Fitzgerald Mountain trails in nearby Springdale, Arkansas, aligning with Allied's tradition of four-letter model names.
A significant factor in the Fitz's impressive weight is the meticulous selection of components. Allied has opted for lightweight parts, notably the advanced Fox 36 SL Factory fork and Continental Magnotal tires, which contribute significantly to the overall weight savings. This contrasts with other brands that might spec heavier, albeit perhaps more robust, components, highlighting Allied's distinct focus on creating a truly lightweight package tailored for performance and enjoyment on diverse terrains.
This launch marks a strategic expansion for Allied, moving beyond its established reputation for lightweight, race-focused gravel and short-travel mountain bikes. The Fitz embodies a shift towards emphasizing efficiency, fun, and capability in pure trail riding, catering to a growing demand among everyday riders for more agile and enjoyable mountain biking experiences.
The introduction of the Fitz by Allied Cycle Works prompts a fascinating discussion about the future direction of mountain bike design. For too long, it felt like trail bikes were in a relentless arms race of increasing travel and burliness, often at the expense of weight. Allied's bold move with the Fitz suggests a refreshing pivot — a recognition that many riders value agility and a lively ride feel just as much, if not more, than maximum descending capability. It challenges the assumption that lightweight inevitably means fragile or under-gunned. This could ignite a new wave of innovation, pushing other manufacturers to re-evaluate their approaches and perhaps lead to a broader range of options for consumers who prioritize a lighter, more responsive ride on the trails. It's a clear statement that performance isn't solely defined by brute strength, but also by the joy and effortlessness of the ride itself.