Heavy tyres, 36-spoke wheels and a flexy disc mount (brake rub under power) mean the Diamondback is slow to get up to speed. More expensive models use longer-travel forks and, as the Suntour fork is prone to diving — and the seat angle is quite steep — most of the rider’s weight ends up over the front wheel on the steep stuff. This ruins downhills and leads to scary moments. A longish stem and low-rise bars do weight distribution no favours.
Despite the great spec, the Response Sport needs a longer-travel fork, lighter wheels, and some minor geometry tweaks.

MBR RATING: 5/10