So, let’s be honest. Comparing the uphill performance of a 26″ full suspension MTB to a 700c rigid cyclocross bike isn’t exactly fair, especially on fireroads. This review is mainly to highlight the differences instead of declaring a winner. I just thought it would be interesting to relay some things I noticed from a recent ride.

The uphill challenge was the I Think I Can trail in Crystal Cove State Park. This is part of my normal loop, so I’m very used to each turn and rise. It averages about 9% for a little over a mile. I raced the Piru 40K TT the day before, so I didn’t know how my legs would perform. I figured they would be tired for both bikes, so it would really matter. Here’s how the bikes stacked up.

Sette CX-1 Cyclocross Bike
SRAM Force Drivetrain
50×34 Crankset
12×36 Cassette
Challenge Grifo  Clincher Tires (700×32)
17.5 lbs
8:35 – 8.1 MPH – 1216 VAM

Titux X Carbon MTB Bike
SRAM X0 Drivetrain
44x32x22 Crankset
12×34 Cassette
Kenda Nevegal UST Tires (26×2.1)
25.4 lbs
11:25 – 6.1 MPH – 914 VAM

The CX bike was obviously the best going uphill. I Think I Can isn’t really technical, so the lighter weight and full rigid setup help. I know can go faster still on the CX bike,  but wonder about the MTB. I guess I’m so used to spinning high RPM on the MTB to put more power into this short climb. Still, I’m excited to keep trying and even compare my biking time to my running time.