What 29er am I looking for?

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Originally Posted by XXX-er

as a fat american dentist you can't be so small you don't fit a 29'er

I fit 29 perfectly inspite of being a small azn man

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Maybe, it’s just not where my priorities lie, where I ride and what I want to do on a bike. My trail bike is 32lbs with 27.5 1100g tires, 65.5 ha ,125mm r,150mm f. I could make it quicker and faster over the long haul but I’d be sacrificing efficiency where I prioritize it, the downs. If I was an American dentist I’d have the same bike but it’d weigh 29lbs without sacrificing the downs
I’d like to borrow someone’s 9er front wheel to see how that’d ride on my bike. I don’t like the idea of having my satchel that close to the rear tire of a 9er where I ride. I’ve heard a few wc dh ers express that. Troy Brosnan most recently. I think he’s 5’8”/5’9” ish

Oh man. Nothing worse than a stretched satchel

I am coming around to 29ers on bikes with less than 140mm of travel. I would never want them on my enduro or park bike though, even if I was racing.

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I'm 5'8" fit the medium yeti 5.5 perfect and its 29

the new sb150 can go smaller size probably cuz its longer

when i am climbing up often wish for a lighter bike

until I aim it back down hill

Above my pay grade . Probably both sweet bikes, just not my jam, generally. I’m 5”7’ but 29” inseam is a limiting factor. Brosnan was talking about his dh bike. More often I think I’d like to find some cheap 26” wheels to go play on. I’m not opposed to playing on any 2 wheels though

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Originally Posted by Betelgeuse

Oh man. Nothing worse than a stretched satchel

I am coming around to 29ers on bikes with less than 140mm of travel. I would never want them on my enduro or park bike though, even if I was racing.

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Ya I look at 140 or less . For me a 100mm travel one makes most sense. These look amazing
Attachment 245812
https://www.vitalmtb.com/features/Ar...rail-Bike,2501
Could I run a 27.5 rear?

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Originally Posted by grinch

Maybe, it’s just not where my priorities lie, where I ride and what I want to do on a bike. My trail bike is 32lbs with 27.5 1100g tires, 65.5 ha ,125mm r,150mm f. I could make it quicker and faster over the long haul but I’d be sacrificing efficiency where I prioritize it, the downs. If I was an American dentist I’d have the same bike but it’d weigh 29lbs without sacrificing the downs

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I'm 5'9" and my 29er trail bike weighs 31lbs with 1100g tires, 64.5 ha, 150mm rear, 160mm front. And I never scrub my satchel on the rear tire, even on steeps.

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Originally Posted by grinch

Ya I look at 140 or less . For me a 100mm travel one makes most sense. These look amazing
https://www.vitalmtb.com/features/Ar...rail-Bike,2501

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Anyone ever own a "high pivot" bike? Chains seem to be a weak link <pun> on a bike; I've broke a few myself...it just looks like A LOT of chain. Also looks like a lot going on in the BB, pivots, front upper sprocket(?) section of the bike...

But I've never ridden one...never even seen one in person that I can recall. For all I know, they might be the best thing since round wheels.

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Originally Posted by muted

This ad is killing me. It would make me sell my reign and be a one-bike for me, if it's as great as people say.

https://classifieds.ksl.com/listing/53324766

focus....focus....must resist.

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This is a craigslist scam

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Originally Posted by smartyiak

Anyone ever own a "high pivot" bike? Chains seem to be a weak link <pun> on a bike; I've broke a few myself...it just looks like A LOT of chain. Also looks like a lot going on in the BB, pivots, front upper sprocket(?) section of the bike...

But I've never ridden one...never even seen one in person that I can recall. For all I know, they might be the best thing since round wheels.

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I used to have a canfield jedi. Not a single pivot, but the axle path is fairly similar to the new crop of high pivots, and it used an idler.

Plowed over square hits really well. No issues with the chain or idler, but I'm not sure I'd want that setup on a pedal bike. Biggest issue I had was that it cornered and jumped a bit weird since the wheelbase gets significantly longer as the suspension compresses.

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Originally Posted by smartyiak

Anyone ever own a "high pivot" bike? Chains seem to be a weak link on a bike; I've broke a few myself...it just looks like A LOT of chain. Also looks like a lot going on in the BB, pivots, front upper sprocket(?) section of the bike...

But I've never ridden one...never even seen one in person that I can recall. For all I know, they might be the best thing since round wheels.

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I had the Commencal Supreme V4 with the High single pivot. I currently have a scott voltage as my park bike, and it has a (fairly) high single pivot, and rearward axle path initially. The voltage doesnt have an idle pulley or whatever, so you feel the chain growth, but The stretching wheelbase has a sort of “boost” effect, when you pump it, it extends you forward and generates a little speed boost in certain situations.

I have never broken a chain or anything on the frames of either of the bikes. the commencal seemed like it was really well put together. The scott is simply bulletproof. The chains may get a little sloppier faster, seemingly, but never broke one.

I dont know much about the high pivot bikes, but I like how they ride. I currently have a giant glory as well, and I liked the Commencal Supreme V4 better. The commie was more racey, and also more poppy. I think I have too soft of a rear spring on my Glory though. I actually sold the supreme because I though it was too much bike for me, but then i rode the glory about 10 times and realized the supreme was the better bike, and now I regret selling it.

The only issue I had with the Supreme, Similar to what Toast said, was that when jumping, the moving wheelbase would throw me off on take offs a bit, and put my body in the wrong spot on the bike all of a sudden, but I think if I spent more time on it I would have figured that out..

Next year I’m getting another 27.5 version of the commie I think, and gonna try to figure it out more, cuz its a fast and fun bike. The 29er looks cool, but I dont need that much speed for Northstar.


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grinch, you should ride one. Riding new bikes is fun, regardless of wheel size. My takeaway with every 29er I've ridden, with the sort-of-exception of the Stache, was that moving the bike around took more effort. Definitely faster over rough stuff, and it's kind of crazy how they keep gaining momentum seemingly endlessly, but throwing it around feels awkward, and I agree, looks awkward. And, it's not limited to WC DH. Watching some the best riders in the world on a 29er, they're obviously not having trouble moving it around, but it definitely just looks kinda weird.

We as mountain bikers can adapt and adjust to anything. Geometry, frame size, and certainly wheel size. I have no doubt that, with a couple of rides, I'd feel completely comfy on a 29er. My stance has been that I'm out there to have fun, and to me, popping off every little thing in sight and throwing the bike around is fun. Going fast is also fun, but I'm old enough to know that I can't go WFO on multi-use trails anymore. Having said that, I'm also getting more interested in efficiency and comfort over long rides, and so I can't help but be curious about these new slack, short travel 29ers. I think I'll end up with one eventually as my XC bike. Though, I plan to stick with 27.5 for the big bike(s).

Ultimately, though, the hardest part about buying a 29er is breaking it to kidwoo.

Shit, I'm gay?

Im honestly a little more interested in the Scott Ransom over the Pivot Firebird. But too much travel for 29 if Im not racing.


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Originally Posted by bagtagley

<snip> My stance has been that I'm out there to have fun, and to me, popping off every little thing in sight and throwing the bike around is fun. Going fast is also fun, but I'm old enough to know that I can't go WFO on multi-use trails anymore.

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Yup. This is my take. Ride it like a BMX bike and accept that I'll never go as fast as is possible on the bike, 'cause that ain't safe. Fun is more important than straight-line speed to me...

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Originally Posted by Betelgeuse

Im honestly a little more interested in the Scott Ransom over the Pivot Firebird. But too much travel for 29 if Im not racing.

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Crud catcher shock mount, bar/stem combo, and proprietary shock. #yerbetterthanthat :D

My gear turnaround rate allows for that kind of bologna. I think that I’m treating the Bike Mag Bible too much like the gospel word lately, although I have lined up with most of their reviews.

I kind of like the bar/stem combo idea though. Although my main concern of shock transmission and vibez needs to be tested.


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Originally Posted by bagtagley

grinch, you should ride one. Riding new bikes is fun, regardless of wheel size. My takeaway with every 29er I've ridden, with the sort-of-exception of the Stache, was that moving the bike around took more effort. Definitely faster over rough stuff, and it's kind of crazy how they keep gaining momentum seemingly endlessly, but throwing it around feels awkward, and I agree, looks awkward. And, it's not limited to WC DH. Watching some the best riders in the world on a 29er, they're obviously not having trouble moving it around, but it definitely just looks kinda weird.

We as mountain bikers can adapt and adjust to anything. Geometry, frame size, and certainly wheel size. I have no doubt that, with a couple of rides, I'd feel completely comfy on a 29er. My stance has been that I'm out there to have fun, and to me, popping off every little thing in sight and throwing the bike around is fun. Going fast is also fun, but I'm old enough to know that I can't go WFO on multi-use trails anymore. Having said that, I'm also getting more interested in efficiency and comfort over long rides, and so I can't help but be curious about these new slack, short travel 29ers. I think I'll end up with one eventually as my XC bike. Though, I plan to stick with 27.5 for the big bike(s).

Ultimately, though, the hardest part about buying a 29er is breaking it to kidwoo.

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Ya I definitely keep thinking about it. Obviously I’m just going from observation but I’d definitely like to try one. Not so much as the height, or lack of it, but 29” inseam is a big factor for me when I have to also consider stand over and chainstay length as well as the satchel/tire conflict. That “forbidden bike” fits that pretty well(hsp cs does grow a far bit though). I have my trani scout so dialed now though I’m thinking 100mm rear travel 9er for those long alpine rides. Everything lighter and tires pumped to keep it together. Big commitment to get a purpose bike like that when I can take the scout literally anywhere. Still I must try one of these struggle machines

I regularly ride the rear tire of my capra 29 with my undercarriage on steep stuff. Gonna need some ball bearings down there. Other than that, the bike is awesome.

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Originally Posted by klauss

I regularly ride the rear tire of my capra 29 with my undercarriage on steep stuff. Gonna need some ball bearings down there. Other than that, the bike is awesome.

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Idler pulleys are all the rage. Placements vary :)

Maybe this has been addressed...

27.5 plus is essentially the same diameter as a 29. Except you get stupid heavy tires with momentum killing pressures. Having taken a couple bikes out that you can switch the wheels on I don’t understand why people bother with anything but 29.


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Originally Posted by detrusor

Maybe this has been addressed...

27.5 plus is essentially the same diameter as a 29. Except you get stupid heavy tires with momentum killing pressures. Having taken a couple bikes out that you can switch the wheels on I don’t understand why people bother with anything but 29.


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They give a cushy ride and they offer more cornering traction as long as you don't push them hard.

They're not for me, but I kinda get why people like them. I mean, people ride fat bikes on dry trails too. I never figured that one out though.

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I’m an absolute bike newb, but I bought a 27.5+ hardtail thinking it was the most durable decent trail bike I could find for less than $1k used.

Plus tires make the most sense on hardtails, that’s where they shine.

You got a good bike SJ, enjoy it!


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Originally Posted by toast2266

They give a cushy ride and they offer more cornering traction as long as you don't push them hard.

They're not for me, but I kinda get why people like them. I mean, people ride fat bikes on dry trails too. I never figured that one out though.

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I tried a Hightower 27+ with 2.8 Rekons in Vermont this week, my first plus bike experience. I agree with your description based on the setup I rode. They gave a ton of confidence at lower speeds but I had no idea when they were going to give out on me and had a few scary moments in corners.

But what about a more aggressive plus tire like a Minion 2.8? Can they be pushed harder in corners? I’d think they’d have a whole lot of ultimate bite rather than feeling like round balloons like the Rekons.

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Originally Posted by D(C)

I tried a Hightower 27+ with 2.8 Rekons in Vermont this week, my first plus bike experience. I agree with your description based on the setup I rode. They gave a ton of confidence at lower speeds but I had no idea when they were going to give out on me and had a few scary moments in corners.

But what about a more aggressive plus tire like a Minion 2.8? Can they be pushed harder in corners? I’d think they’d have a whole lot of ultimate bite rather than feeling like round balloons like the Rekons.

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Yeah, more traction for sure, but they still fold over in corners and feel squirmy and shitty. You can run higher pressures, but then they bounce off of everything. And they roll sloooooow.

I almost like the less knobby plus tires better. They roll faster, and they drift before the sidewall starts to buckle.

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Originally Posted by toast2266

They give a cushy ride and they offer more cornering traction as long as you don't push them hard.

They're not for me, but I kinda get why people like them. I mean, people ride fat bikes on dry trails too. I never figured that one out though.

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Bc it’s the only bike I currently own....but that’s why I’m in the market it’s fun....but not even close to ideal for a one bike setup. [emoji1303]


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I know I'm gonna get shit for this but...

In the market for a hardtail 29. Current steel 27.5plus frame has a semi-rideable bent dropout and is not really worth replacing as most of the part specs are now 'outdated'. As a general fan of steel bikes, I've been eyeing up a Surly Krampus for a few years and they just released a new colorway w/ an updated parts spec that seems better and pricewise is solid. I'm 6'3" with lanky limbs and really like the 29 option on longer rides as well as plus tires to absorb some bumps rather than spending more on full suspension.

Here is the criteria I'm looking for: Hardtail 29er with ability to clear a 2.8-3" tire, dropper compatible, ideally front susp (although rigid with an eventual upgrade is possible), geometry that's a good balance between ripping trails as well as good long-day comfort. Under $2k, weight not really an issue, and a lot of frame space/braze-ons for bike bags. Most local riding involves moderate singletrack with roots, small drops, rocks, PNW dirt. A lot of my local trails involve 5-10 mile gravel climbs with singletrack descents. Pretty fast climber and I enjoy gravel roads, fairly confident on descents but not fast by any means. Not big into the downhill jumping enduro scene either. I also bikepack and have done some shorter overnight trips, really want to get into some longer distance, endurance type rides (i.e. Oregon timber trail or Tour Divide next summer if time permits). Also, there's a decent chance I'll be relocating to Tucson in another 1-1.5yrs...

My only skepticism with the Krampus is the stock rigid set up (I'd want a squish fork for local riding) and not totally wanting to drop additional cash on a susp fork. Weight obviously not a huge issue but for longer tours I'm not quite sure how it would compare in terms of comfort and weight savings to something like a Salsa woodsmoke, cutthroat (obviously different bike with drop bars), etc.

Realistically I probably should only drop under $1500 but a lot of new hardtails in that range skimp on thru axles, cheap fork, brakes, etc (more base model Timberjack, Big Honzo). Either they come spec'ed with narrow 29er or 27.5plus tires, neither of which I'd stick with. I don't mind buying used but kind of realized with my current bike (that I got used) I've definitely spent more money over time replacing worn parts.

I can't say I've been paying super close attention to that segment of the market, but I wouldn't think there are all that many frames out there that can fit a 29 x 3" tire.

Maybe check out a Trek Stache?

Well, my quest ended with this used Orbea Occam TR. I cancelled my Django order from Evo. Brand new Enve M60HV rims, Eagle drivetrain, weighs about 25 pounds. I took it for a small test ride yesterday, but I have a twisted ankle so I couldn't rally it. Feels great but might be a touch small but I gotta go for a long ride and get used to the geo though. Might be fine. A new seat is all it needs, although I'm unsure I'll like the rear tire. Was $300 over budget, got it for 2800. Kinda psyched but I can't ride for at least a week as I heal.....

Attachment 245922

https://dirtragmag.com/first-ride-sa...erjack-27plus/

Salsa Timber jack ^^ a friend has one setup with cushy + tires, it takes 27.5 or 29 or plus and the replaceable dropouts mean you can also set it up SS.

this is a good artical for you to read because it speaks to whats in that genre

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Originally Posted by toast2266

I can't say I've been paying super close attention to that segment of the market, but I wouldn't think there are all that many frames out there that can fit a 29 x 3" tire.

Maybe check out a Trek Stache?

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Good call! My friend just picked up a used Stache and it seems like a rad bike. My only overly picky gripes are the limited size front triangle and aesthetically fugly elevated chainstay. I'd love to hear more feedback though from others as my friend is totally new to mtn biking.

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Originally Posted by XXX-er

https://dirtragmag.com/first-ride-sa...erjack-27plus/

Salsa Timber jack ^^ a friend has one setup with cushy + tires, it takes 27.5 or 29 or plus and the replaceable dropouts mean you can also set it up SS.

this is a good artical for you to read because it speaks to whats in that genre

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Thanks for the link! I see REI currently has a sale on Timberjacks...

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Originally Posted by muted

Well, my quest ended with this used Orbea Occam TR. I cancelled my Django order from Evo. Brand new Enve M60HV rims, Eagle drivetrain, weighs about 25 pounds. I took it for a small test ride yesterday, but I have a twisted ankle so I couldn't rally it. Feels great but might be a touch small but I gotta go for a long ride and get used to the geo though. Might be fine. A new seat is all it needs, although I'm unsure I'll like the rear tire. Was $300 over budget, got it for 2800. Kinda psyched but I can't ride for at least a week as I heal.....

Attachment 245922

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That looks like a pretty damn good deal.

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Originally Posted by muted

Well, my quest ended with this used Orbea Occam TR. I cancelled my Django order from Evo. Brand new Enve M60HV rims, Eagle drivetrain, weighs about 25 pounds. I took it for a small test ride yesterday, but I have a twisted ankle so I couldn't rally it. Feels great but might be a touch small but I gotta go for a long ride and get used to the geo though. Might be fine. A new seat is all it needs, although I'm unsure I'll like the rear tire. Was $300 over budget, got it for 2800. Kinda psyched but I can't ride for at least a week as I heal.....

Attachment 245922

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Ya thats a good find!


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Check out their website, Timberjack even comes in Ti but you will have to do lotsa root canals

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Originally Posted by toast2266

That looks like a pretty damn good deal.

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Nice. Let us know how it works out!


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Originally Posted by XXX-er

Check out their website, Timberjack even comes in Ti but you will have to do lotsa root canals

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Hot dayum... might have to switch career paths!

I saw this awhile back on Bikepacking.com. Drool worthy for sure:

http://www.bikepacking.com/bikes/sal...jack-ti-build/

I'd pull the trigger on a timberjack if they had a stock model with 29x2.6 or 2.8 tires/wheels and wider rims. The base 29 model has 2.25 tires on i23 rims, vs. having to swap wheels on a 650b version then puts you closer to $2k. Maybe 2019??

This isn’t a bad deal:

Attachment 245933

2018 Trek Fuel EX 8 29 with GX 1x12 Eagle Drivetrain,
Converted Tubeless, and an internal dropper seat post.
Size 15.5", 17.5", 21.5"
Regular price: $3,300
SALE PRICE: $2,300

Pm if you want details; it’s a friend’s bike shop year-end clearance.

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Originally Posted by smartyiak

Nice. Let us know how it works out!


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Thanks, will do.

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Originally Posted by muted

Well, my quest ended with this used Orbea Occam TR. I cancelled my Django order from Evo. Brand new Enve M60HV rims, Eagle drivetrain, weighs about 25 pounds. I took it for a small test ride yesterday, but I have a twisted ankle so I couldn't rally it. Feels great but might be a touch small but I gotta go for a long ride and get used to the geo though. Might be fine. A new seat is all it needs, although I'm unsure I'll like the rear tire. Was $300 over budget, got it for 2800. Kinda psyched but I can't ride for at least a week as I heal.....

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Sick deal. That thing is loaded!

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Originally Posted by muted

Well, my quest ended with this used Orbea Occam TR. I cancelled my Django order from Evo. Brand new Enve M60HV rims, Eagle drivetrain, weighs about 25 pounds. I took it for a small test ride yesterday, but I have a twisted ankle so I couldn't rally it. Feels great but might be a touch small but I gotta go for a long ride and get used to the geo though. Might be fine. A new seat is all it needs, although I'm unsure I'll like the rear tire. Was $300 over budget, got it for 2800. Kinda psyched but I can't ride for at least a week as I heal.....

Attachment 245922

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No ti spindles on the pedals, I wouldn’t ride that, despite the 70% off. Curious though. Where do you shop?