Intense Sniper T Mountain Bike Frame

The Ultimate XC-Trail Fusio - the Intense Sniper T

Recognizing that most of us love the downhill sections the most, the engineers at Intense have created the Intense Sniper T to be the ultimate full suspension XC-trail bike that can climb like a hardtail but will make you think you’re on an enduro rig on the descent.

Lots of manufacturers get lost in trying to square the circle in terms of designing capable yet snappy XC mountain bikes. With the Sniper T, Intense has avoided many of the pitfalls by focusing on mixing a lightweight full carbon frame with 29-inch wheels, progressive modern geometry, and an increase in suspension travel. Compared to the Sniper XC racer, the Sniper T comes with 120mm front and rear travel, which is 20mm more front and back than the straight XC option.

Progressive Geometry of the Sniper T for Confident Riding

This mixture helps the Sniper T tackle the toughest trails at speed without feeling like you are on the edge of losing control. It’s a fine balance to achieve. But Intense make it work thanks to their willingness to think outside the box in terms of geometry. The long, low, slack mantra fits in perfectly here, since the Sniper T’s geo numbers are more progressive than the average, with a longer top tube paired with a shorter stem and wide bars make for a highly controllable rig, while the slacker head angle and lower bottom bracket enhance the feeling of a well-balanced bike.

Upping the travel from 100mm to 120mm means that the Sniper T starts straddling that blurry line between XC and trail, with the inclusion of the dropper post making it easier for the rider to make the most of the design. But just increasing travel doesn’t guarantee a capable descending bike. The real skill comes in how you tune the suspension, which is something Intense is expert at.

JS Suspension by Jeff Steber

The JS Suspension for the Sniper T, like all the Intense suspensions, comes thanks to the founder and CEO, Jeff Steber. Focusing on optimized pedal performance, the shock has been tuned to perform for typical trail terrains while the suspension offers the supple sensitivity for small bumps that will make it more efficient for out of the saddle climbs. The excellent progression through the end of the stroke means you’ll never get caught bottoming out.

Though bike manufacturers typically have to categorize their bikes so that we know what to expect, the Intense Sniper T’s strength is its ability to straddle the line between XC and trail. It makes it a hugely versatile mountain bike that you can ride with confidence on the descents and ease on the climbs. Available in four sizes that can accommodate anyone from 5’0” to 6’6”, and in multiple build options, the Sniper T is a confidence inspiring do everything XC bike for anyone.

Also check Litespeed Mountain Bikes.