NOTE on Comparing Star Ratings between Interbike 2014 and 2015 bike tests: I’ve found already that the new bike designs I’m riding this year are a step better than the best bikes I rode last year. What was a 5 star rating last year would only be a 4 star rating this year.
The core feature of the Trigger is a proprietary Fox-designed shock that allows the bike to be adjusted to either a short-travel 85mm mode or a long travel 140mm mode.
Climbing - 4 stars
The Trigger had a pleasingly snappy climbing feel on smooth surface, but rougher terrain tended to throw it off-line easily. Rocky climbs tended to throw the Trigger off-balance and off-line.
Descending – 2 stars
Despite having a 140mm long-travel mode, the Trigger has the personality of a short travel XC bike. Lack of compliance in the front shock and rear suspension requires a good amount of attention to keep the Trigger in line.
Cornering - 3 stars
The Trigger is fast cornering, but lack of compliance in its suspension require attention when traversing rough terrain.
Summary
I tried both the short and long travel modes. I quickly defaulted to using the long travel mode since the short travel mode didn’t necessarily feel much more efficient. The personality of the Trigger is definitely more XC-oriented even in the long travel mode.
Rating Guide
5 stars - Absolutely outstanding
4 stars
3 stars - Solid performance, meets expectations
2 stars
1 star - Misses expectations by a wide margin