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11 August 2009 - 1:051 Week in

So after several rides, I can equivocally say that this is one serious machine.
I’ve ridden this beast for 4 out of the last 6 days, all the while deciphering the cryptic Marzoccchi manual, and tweaking the best setting out of the DHX rear shock.

First and foremost, I am really amazed at how this bike climbs. I have had this bike out on trails that I know like the back of my hand, and I have a series of points on certain trails where I make judgments.
Despite the visual “low slung” BB height is actually very good. I normally tap out on this one section where I crest a waterbar on my RIP. Not so with the WFO. I’m also not sure if it is the overall stiffness of the frame, but I almost think this bike climbs better than the RIP. It’s almost JETlike.

Pulling up on the bars and getting out of the saddle with some grrr, you are rewarded with instantaneous acceleration. Yeah, the bike may bob a bit on both ends, but the way you can pull out of turns is incredible. For crying out loud, this is a bike with a ton of travel on both ends! I was expecting a pig, but I’m pleasantly surprised with a nimble beast that like to be pushed harder and further.

Point the bike down, and, well, it’s better than you can imagine… way better.
I find myself making motorcycle noises while riding it.

I’m almost positive this bike is out to get me…

RFF

3 Comments » | Tags: 29er, Niner

Comments:

  1. G: I was curious, which size did you go with on this rig? If I missed where you wrote the answer, please forgive me, but I didn’t see it in your posts.

  2. I built up a large. Visually, it seems really big, especially when you put it next to the RIP. It rides a lot smaller than it looks though.

  3. Thanks G! I thought it looked ginormous and was puzzled, since I know how big you really are! (Ha!)

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