Haro and Intense Cycles: The Perfect Brands for Upper Valley Riders?
The Upper Valley’s mix of technical climbs, rocky descents, and flowy singletrack demands a mountain bike that can handle everything from the rooty switchbacks of Boston Lot to the fast, bermed descents at Green Woodlands. Two brands stand out for local riders: Haro and Intense Cycles. Here’s how their models compare for Upper Valley terrain.
Intense Cycles: Built for Aggressive Riding
Key Models: Tracer 279 S, M1, Tracer T275
Intense Cycles has a reputation for high-performance, downhill-oriented bikes that excel on technical and demanding trails. The Tracer 279 S, for example, is designed with rowdy riding in mind. It features a mixed-wheel setup (29″ front, 27.5″ rear), a coil shock, and aggressive Maxxis DH tires—ideal for the rocky, rooty, and steep terrain found on trails like Mount Ascutney and the technical sections of Boston Lot. The suspension is among the best in its class, offering excellent support and confidence on rough descents and forgiving small mistakes on long rides.
Strengths:
- Outstanding downhill capability and suspension performance
- Intuitive, stable handling on technical trails
- Durable spec for aggressive trail use
Considerations:
- Heavier tires and aggressive setup mean less efficiency on long climbs or flatter trails
- Best suited for experienced riders who prioritize descending and technical features
Best For: Riders who want to push limits on the gnarliest Upper Valley trails—think Green Woodlands’ advanced loops, Ascutney’s steep descents, or challenging lines at Boston Lot.
Haro: Versatility and Value
Key Models: Shift Dual, Daley, Greer
Haro offers a broad range of mountain bikes, from budget-friendly hardtails to capable full-suspension models. The Shift series, for example, provides 125–140mm of travel and is designed for trail riding with a focus on value and reliability. The new aluminum Daley and Greer models use a straightforward Horst link suspension, making them easy to maintain and well-suited for the varied terrain of the Upper Valley—from flowy singletrack at Trescott Trails to all-day rides at Mount Peg.
Strengths:
Affordable, with models for every budget
Versatile geometry for both climbing and descending
Lighter, more efficient for long rides and rolling terrain
Considerations:
Not as aggressively tuned for extreme downhill as Intense
Suspension and component spec are good for the price, but not top-tier for advanced riders
Best For:
Riders seeking a reliable, capable bike for a mix of local trails—including moderate technical features, long climbs, and everyday riding. Ideal for those who want performance without the boutique price tag, or for newer riders looking to progress.
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Which Should You Choose?
Choose Intense if:
You crave aggressive descents, technical features, and want a bike that inspires confidence on the most challenging Upper Valley trails.
Choose Haro if:
You want a versatile, efficient bike for a variety of local terrain, value reliability and ease of maintenance, or are looking for a budget-friendly entry into mountain biking.
Both brands offer quality rides, but your choice should reflect your riding style and the type of Upper Valley trails you plan to tackle most often. For expert advice and local knowledge, visit Dialed By Mike to see these bikes in person and find your perfect fit for the Upper Valley.