Posted on June 28, 2024 by nate collins — Leave a comment

BikeCo Favorites: Builds that start with exceptional value

BikeCo Favorites what sets our preferred kits apart

We appreciate how hard riders look at factory bike specs. Where is the best value? What sunk costs do I want to avoid? Am I into the extra bling here and there or does it simply add up?

At BikeCo when we place our stocking order we review the same things. Often, we find one or sometimes two builds that stand out for a particular model. Here’s a quick look at some of the major factors we consider determining what’s going to be the most popular spec to start with.

Major Considerations

There are two areas in particular that we consider when determining which will be a BikeCo favorite build: Suspension and Drivetrain.

Both suspension as well as drivetrain are important to designate a bike’s personality and relative price point. These are areas that you’ll see pricing incentive on a stock factory build, meaning, if you try to start shopping another build and swapping fork, shock, or drivetrain bits you’re likely to take a price hit.

Suspension

Top tier suspension features additional damping controls such as high and low speed compression and depending on the components high and low speed rebound. With these additional controls riders can fine tune how their bike rides into and out of corners as well as through chunky terrain.

While entry level suspension such as FOX Performance is great for a lot of riders, you wouldn’t prioritize say carbon wheels over the upgrade to FOX Factory or top tier Ohlins components.

Upgrading to higher end suspension tends to be price prohibitive based on the market credit for lower stock fork and shock. Typically the upgrade price quickly closes the gap towards the higher models that have additional improvements to the spec.

Drivetrain

This is area of spec that can be price prohibitive for entire group upgrades. While a nicer chain or cassette, etc is one thing, going from say a cable driven system to AXS Transmission including the cranks, derailleur, cassette, chain, and shifter on most factory models doesn’t pencil out.

BikeCo Favorite builds tend to ensure riders are getting the most for their dollar on suspension and drivetrain – and of course our class leading selection of bike brands with unmatched quality of construction and function of suspension.

Other Considerations

Wheels

Most of our BikeCo favorite builds will feature quality aluminum rims. While some brands feature other builds with carbon offerings, or carbon upgrades (more on that in a second) most riders who are shopping carbon will be looking for custom handbuilt wheels pairing specific hubs with the perfect rim combo.

Factory carbon upgrades like the Ibis carbon with i9 hubs can be a great upgrade to a kit – but it tends to be pretty close to upgrading to similar handbuilt wheels where you’ll pick hub colors, spoke technology, nipple colors, etc. If nothing else it’s going to be worth a conversation with our sales team about hubs like i9, Chris King and Onyx as well as carbon rims from NOX or Ibis as well as the advantages of DT Swiss spokes and nipples.

Common Areas for Upgrades / Swaps

Brakes / Cockpit

Riders tend to develop a preference for brakes. Most of the bikes that we sell at BikeCo.com will have brakes and rotors swapped to accommodate this preference. These swaps and upgrades aren’t as big of a financial consideration as it would be with suspension or drivetrain for example.

Similarly, handlebar, stem, grips, and seatpost remotes are often swapped or upgraded for fit and preference.

In short the goal is to find the kits that give riders the maximum value and range of swaps or upgrades – things that along with unbeatable expertise and after sales service set BikeCo apart from the “slap a shipping label on a box” MTB and eMTB e-tailers.

We invite you to click through the site and learn more about the best MTB and eMTB bikes as well as how BikeCo can help you take your riding experience to the next level.

Under Construction:

Wondering about some BikeCo Favorites?

Check out the Mondraker FOXY Carbon RR AXS

(more to come)

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2024 Ibis Sale Bikes

Looking for a deal on a 2024 Ibis? Scroll through 2024 Ibis Sale Bikes below!

Questions on spec, performance or availability?

Know exactly what you’re looking for? Contact our team for specific availability, popular upgrades and other details at 949-470-1099.

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Click on these tabs to learn more about the purchasing process from BikeCo.com

Payment

Purchasing Steps from BikeCo.com (The Bike Company)

Place Your Deposit
Our team will contact you to go over common questions including common part swaps / upgrades, tuning considerations, initial setup requirements, etc.
Your bike will be built and setup for you including delivery documentation to help you better understand and fine tune the bike’s performance.

Remainder of balance is due at pickup or prior to shipment.
Delivery consultation on-site or available by phone / video conference goes over FAQ on a new MTB or eMTB highlighting common questions on suspension setup, bedding brakes, bolt checks, cockpit and seating fit, etc.
Our team will follow up several times after delivery to help you better understand minute adjustments. And of course we’re always available by phone, email or chat!

Availability

Availability Definitions:

IN-STOCK and Available Now!
Typically ready for pickup or shipment within 2-4 business days.
Custom components may change this window (we will advise).

AVAILABLE: Secure this Bike
Shows in-stock at the vendor (stock updated as often as possible).
Order is processed & shipped to BikeCo (typically 3-7 working days), built by BikeCo (usually on the day the product lands at BikeCo) for pickup or shipment.

PRE-ORDER: Due 1st week of XXX
Part of a inbound BikeCo order or shows available in this time window.
May be later or earlier than predicted depending on product availability.
Bike is due at vendor, will be quality checked, processed and shipped. (typically 3-14 business days) Built by BikeCo for delivery.

Bikes from BikeCo.com!

When you buy a bike from BikeCo.com you’re not getting simply a forwarded box.

Our team goes through quality control checks, builds, tunes and provides a base setup for each bike. This allows us a better chance to find the rare mechanical warranty issue, to ensure that the linkage and bearings are properly setup.

A suspension setup guide is provided and our team will begin working with you to ensure as your riding develops with your new bike suspension settings, cockpit setup, tire pressures, etc are addressed to keep you progressing.

Since we build every bike we can also offer part swaps and upgrades our competition simply cannot!

Looking for different tires? Brakes? Cockpit or Seating? Not a problem. Our team is happy to help you. Chat with our sales team about during and after purchase incentives on riding gear and accessories as well!

Your new bike typically will arrive with an absolute minimum of work required to get you on the trails. Usually this involves installing the handlebars, adjusting the headset and mounting the front and rear wheel. It’s that easy – and if you have questions you have access to the sales team and a variety of videos from BikeCo.com to help you.

Questions? No problem. Hit us up.

Reasons Riders Choose BikeCo.com over Direct To Consumer

Shop In-Stock and Available 2024 Ibis Sale Bikes

The Quintessential Yeti 29 build

Get ready to experience what BikeCo has dubbed The Quintessential Yeti 29 build. This SB140 Lunch Ride XT Complete, Size Large in Raw Carbon Black is now available at an Exclusive BikeCo deal of $6000, but hurry as there is only a single unit available. Contact us now to secure this one-of-a-kind bike for yourself.

This incredible build features top-of-the-line components including a FOX Factory 36 GRIP2 fork, FOX Factory Float X shock, DT Swiss XM1700 wheelset, Maxxis Assegai and Dissector tires, Shimano XT 12S drivetrain, and many more high-performance parts. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to own this exceptional bike!

Spec on ’23 SB140 Lunch Ride XT Build by BikeCo.com

Fork	FOX Factory 36 GRIP2, 160mm
Shock	FOX Factory Float X
Wheelset	DT Swiss XM1700
Front Tire	Maxxis Assegai 2.5 EXO
Rear Tire	Maxxis Dissector 2.4 EXO+
Brakes	Shimano 8120
Rotors	Shimano RT 86 200/180
Cranks	Shimano XT 12S
Bottom Bracket	Shimano XT
Derailleur	Shimano XT 12S
Shifter	Shimano XT 12S
Cassette	Shimano XT 12S
Chain	Shimano XT 12S
Headset	Cane Creek 40 Integrated
ODI Elite Pro	ODI Elite Pro
Handlebar	Yeti Carbon 35x800mm
Stem	Burgtec Enduro MK3 35x50mm
Seatpost	Bike Yoke Revive 180 Dropper Lever Shimano
Saddle	WTB Silverado Custom

Posted on February 22, 2024February 22, 2024 by nate collins — Leave a comment

BikeCo Pro Tune Suspension Advantages

Check out this video to learn more about BikeCo Pro Tune Suspension for FOX forks and FOX shocks from Pro-Rider Cody Kelley and BikeCo’s Joe Binatena!

Keep reading for more details on BikeCo’s proprietary FOX suspension tuning.

BikeCo Pro Tune Suspension Advantages

For years we’ve has been providing riders access to the best performing Fox Suspension through our proprietary Pro Tunes designed by BikeCo.com owner Joe Binatena.

BikeCo Pro Tune Suspension is designed to maximize damper performance to your riding specifics. Rear shocks are built chassis specific, we don’t offer a Pro Tune shock for every bike, but do for Ibis, Yeti, Mondraker, Specialized, Santa Cruz, Intense, YT, Giant and more.

BikeCo Pro Tune Suspension

There are many aspects to BikeCo.com that separate us from the competition. One cornerstone the competition simply can’t imitate is our BikeCo Pro Tune Suspension. Available on FOX forks and rear shocks these individual tunes narrow the adjustment window from the stock “works for everyone” to a more finite setup based on your size, riding style, bike, terrain, speed and aspirations.

BikeCo Pro Tune Suspension

Pro Tune Suspension: What’s Changed?

BikeCo Pro Tuned Forks

Well, without giving out all the ingredients to the secrets we can look at some aspects that help BikeCo Pro Tune Suspension outperform the stock setups.

The fork’s upper and lower mechanical fit is improved on Pro Tune Forks. Reducing the slide friction between the stanchions and fork lowers helps minimize sticktion in both compression and rebound for better bump compliance and damper setup.

Proprietary lubes based on rider details provide better internal oiling while accounting for heat generated by ground speeds and terrain.

Another major aspect of BikeCo Pro Tune Suspension is the improved damper bleeds. After many years working on a wide range of suspension with the fastest racers in MTB our team has developed bleed techniques, tools and lube additives. Eliminating air trapped in the dampers as well as off-gas of settling hydraulic fluid takes longer and involves additional tooling – but the results are well worth it!

The last aspect of BikeCo Pro Tuned Forks we’ll get into (like I said, can’t give you all the secrets) is the support from our team. Everyone on-staff rides. All of us are familiar with suspension setup advantages and disadvantages. And we all have access to the suspension tuners if there’s a question over our heads. As your riding advances adjustments to the PSI, rebound, compression and volume spacing will help continue to fine tune the bike. Our team is here to help you better understand all of those adjustments and how they work together.

BikeCo Rear Shock Pro Tunes

Like our fork services BikeCo Rear Shock Pro Tunes utilize proprietary lubes and additive packages. These are designed to improve the shock’s consistency during heat variations.

Also, like Pro Tune Forks, our rear shock damper bleeds are more precise which improves the damper’s consistency. Any air that cavitates a hydraulic system compromises the fluid flow by producing a compressible pocket as well as having different heat properties from the hydraulic fluid – ie – that cool air bubble is going to behave differently mid-way down the hill as it heats up and increases in PSI pushing against the fluid on both sides.

Improving how the compression and rebound dampers behave allow us a wider range of rider setup options in PSI and volume spacing.

Again, FOX makes a great “works for everyone” product, but chances are your bike’s not being ridden by a 145lb who’s tip toe-ing across the trail and a 300lb rider smashing through every bit of chunk they can find. So, if you have the opportunity to fine tune your suspension for your specifics it makes a lot of sense to right?

Our team’s expertise balancing air pressure, volume spacing, compression as well as rebound settings goes a long way in dialing in a bike’s performance.

Things You Won’t Find in Pro Tune Suspension

If you do something well, for any length of time, you’ll see some imitation. Well with the years of expertise you can see how far along their own journey some of the other tuners are. You can also see how far out in the weeds some are!

Highlights of things you won’t see our team do: there was a fork years ago that had basically a fast food straw and some zip ties trying to extend the fluid volume between ports. That one, well, ya. Wow. Another more recent rear shock came in after another tuner worked on it. Upon disassembly there were a handful of bent shims. Rather than designing a shim stack to achieve the goals these were simply “lighter” shims I assume to improve bump compliance. Well, the stack bent and that was that for basically any damping control. But, the shims were oil slick color – so that counts right? No? Ya, I didn’t think so…

What You Feel with Pro Tune Suspension

Alright, you hung in through the description of the non-secret ingredients. But what will you actually feel on trail with Pro Tune Forks and Rear Shocks?

If I tell you you’d have a more plush feel with better support you’d say that’s what every suspension ad for ten years has promised right? Well, BikeCo Pro Tune Suspension has the individualized balance to make that happen.

First, let’s look at something that has created more than a little bit of confusion over the years. The difference between what you and I likely mean when we say “small bump compliance” and what a lot of the engineers in the industry mean.

If you’re like us, when you think of small bump compliance you’re picturing the trail chatter that begins to compress your suspension past the point of sag. Makes sense right? Like the sag point would be your “zero” and the beginning of travel past that would be the “small bumps”?

Most suspension designers disagree. That’s why your last four forks all with “improved small bump compliance” feel similar. Generally they are assigning the “small bump compliance” area of travel to the section between full extension and sag.

The way these designers have marketed improved small bump compliance is by utilizing more aggressive ramp rates through volume or compression settings. So the suspension IS “lighter” until it has to pick your weight up. And then, from there, it’s going to frankly be harsher. Which, is the “more support in the mid-stroke”.

We see it a little different.

When our team is chatting with clients we reference Small Bump Compliance as the area of initial compression past the point of sag. We feel that this is what clients are referring to when they tell us about small bump issues and we agree.

Understanding that riders want support to minimize brake dive as well as to provide additional support in fast corners without creating hand numbing abuse over the small stuff has driven our tune philosophy.

Narrowing the rebound and compression damper’s performance window also gives each click a more finite adjustment window. This makes your suspension more precise and easier to tune to your ideals.

Improving the fork’s upper and lower fitment eliminates a good deal of sticktion allowing riders to run a higher main PSI which improves support while minimizing brake dive. A softer feeling fork at a higher PSI.

Improving the compression circuits also allows more finite tuning with both the hydraulic dampers as well as volume tuning options to change ramp rate. Pro Tune riders tend to find they are able to run more clicks of compression in order to dial in mid and end stroke support without losing suppleness and traction.

Once again coming back to the support from our team – our staff is trained to help you define how tire sidewalls, rim width and volume, rim protection options, tire PSI, brake setup and other attributes will critically effect your suspension’s performance.
Are Pro Tunes only for Racers?

Absolutely not! This is one of the compromises of naming something I suppose. But BikeCo Pro Tune Services might have even more impact for less experienced riders.

That’s because with suspension designed to work in a more finite window as well as having access to our team to help you tune and adjust the tune as your riding improves you can concentrate on riding techniques, reading terrain and worry less about the myriad of adjustments required to dial in your bike.

Pro Tune Design Factors

Pro Tune’s shift performance windows taking into account CHASSIS, RIDER SIZE, EXPERIENCE, DISCIPLINE, TERRAIN, STYLE as well as RIDING GOALS.

Rider Size:

Different size different setups, easy right? Stock suspension is designed for a wide range or riders. Suspension is significantly over compressed for even average size riders “out of the box”.

As a result Pro Tune suspension is an eye opener for lighter riders. Compression controls are shifted to be effective. One click of low speed compression is no longer the equivalent of a lock out!

Experience:

As your riding progresses your suspension needs change. A pro racer will pump hard into a hole in a steep chute to keep the bike at maximum speed, while an advanced rider may pull up or air over it, and a more novice rider may plow into it altogether on the brakes. These all require different tunes and setups.

Discipline:

BikeCo Pro Tune Suspension covers riders from cross country, trail, endure, park to downhill. Each style has unique requirements and cross over points. Ramp rates and compression settings are particularly important. An XC racer may not want to sacrifice a firm lockout while an Enduro racer could utilize a lockout more as a “trail” compression setting.

Terrain:

Type and size of terrain that a rider is comfortable in make a difference in final setup. Riders in flatter terrain appreciate more “pop” in their setup. On the contrary the same level of “pop” maybe disconcerting to a rider blasting chunky chutes as they bounce down trail!

Style:

Are you a basher? Smooth as silk? Somewhere in the middle? Pro Tunes have you covered across the board. Even riders in the same terrain, with similar ground speeds as well as size may have quite varied setups based on style. Personally I have tried to rider smoother as I’ve aged. Even being heavier than our racers I prefer a lighter compression tune since I’m not longer smashing into holes at full speed!

Riding Goals:

Where are you going with your riding? Working hard to improve skillset? Let’s get a tune setup to ensure it takes you where you plan to go. Racing? Improving speed? More confidence? Of course we’ve got you covered.

Rider Goals for Tuned MTB and eMTB Suspension

Common Tune Goals CONFIDENCE, PREDICTABILITY, TUNE-ABILITY

Confidence:

Pushing your riding to the next level is always easier when you’re confident in your equipment. Confident riders concentrate on riding technique as well as improved trail vision.

Better small bump compliance, traction, and support from Pro Tune Suspension improve confidence.

Predictability:

Tied in with confidence, the more predictable your suspension is the less you’re concentrated on components and the more you’re trail aware.

Proprietary oil blends as well as personally tuned oil flow rates produce suspension much less susceptible to heat (or cold) temperature saturation or issue.

Tune-Ability:

Pro Tune suspension shifts performance bands to maximize external control availability. Particularly high and low speed compression controls become more useful.

Light rider? BikeCo Pro Tune’s are designed to allow lighter riders to fine tune additional support through compression without creating an overly harsh platform.

Going to the bike park? In this situation add a click or two of low speed compression to support the front end through high speed berms or steeper chutes.

Some Pro Tune Modifications

Some of the modifications for suspension improvement include FITMENT, OIL FLOW / PERFORMANCE and VOLUME SPACING.

Fitment:

Aligning the upper and lower fork legs drastically minimizes sticktion. Less sticktion without a doubt means better small bump compliance.

Oil Flow / Performance:

Pro Tune suspension uses a variety of proprietary oil blends to maximize additive packages depending on use. Rider size, ground speed and aggressiveness are reviewed to determine the best oil package as well as modifications required to adjust the ideal flow rate.

Minimizing the stress on the oil improves its service life expectancy. Less stressed oil is less apt to create performance issues due to temperature.

Volume Spacing:

Changing the characteristics of air spring performance effects ramp rate, travel usage as well as PSI at sag. Different leverage ratio suspensions require different ramp characteristics.

Notable Improvements with BikeCo Pro Tune

What are some of the most notable improvements? Let’s glance at SMALL BUMP COMPLIANCE, RAMP RATE, HEAT SATURATION and SUPPORT x 2.

Small Bump Compliance:

Better small bump compliance equals improved traction. Most stock dampers are over compressed. Improving the oil flow characteristics, fitment, as well as sag PSI allow maximum traction through small bump compliance.

Critical in cornering, braking and holding lines traction gains are notable from the beginner to expert rider. The difference between the beginner and expert rider’s ground speed means that the setup as well as tune will be different to balance a comfort level on traction and ground speed.

Ramp Rate:

Tuning ramp rate to a particular suspension system’s leverage ratio and rider size allows a more predictable trail feel through the travel.

Using too much or too little travel? In that case along with compression controls ramp rate is available to fine tune air spring progression through volume spacing.

Heat Saturation:

Changes in oil temperature notable effect damper performance. A shock may start a downhill run feeling plush but at the bottom may be so harsh a rider has a hard time holding onto the bars.

Improving the flow for specific riders means BikeCo Pro Tune Suspension doesn’t over stress oil properties. Controlling the oil flow through additive package blends, shim stacks, etc balancing rider size, speed and aggression are critical to Pro Tune performance.

Support:

Pro Tune suspension is designed to maximize small bump compliance without compromising air spring pressure or sag percentage. This provides a more supportive platform, particularly under braking, reducing dive. Modifications to the system also improve low speed compression controls allowing riders to fine tune performance on trail. Dropping into your favorite steep trail? Add a click or two of low speed compression to keep your bike riding taller in the travel. Feel like the bike is a bit low in high speed berms? Same thing. A click or two of compression will help stand the bike up without sacrificing too much small bump compliance.

Support x 2:

To get the most out of your Pro Tune Suspension with BikeCo’s team. Staff will reach out to each rider assessing on trail performance and setup needs. Our expert team will explain the basics of your setup along with common tricks to dial in your bike. A series of phone calls after pickup allows our team to get inside your head on trail to make finite adjustments as required.

Warranty:

Pro Tune Suspension offers disposition re-tunes for 30 days. (example, from time to time we have riders who are much faster than they let on and require a more aggressive tune). We stand behind all suspension service for 90 days.

Ready to go? Have additional questions? Reach out to our staff today by phone, email or chat. Check out other BikeCo Service Rates Here

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Box Bike Assembly from BikeCo.com

Your new bike from BikeCo.com is on the way, what should you expect? Here’s a video and quick write up on some of the step you’ll have to get your dream bike ready for its first ride.

When you work with The Bike Company we aren’t just putting a new shipping label on a box. Every bike, from full customs, semi-customs, box builds with upgrades to standard factory kits is built, setup and test ridden by our staff to ensure you get #thebestinMTB (and eMTB).

Box Bike Assembly

Let’s touch on some common questions that new riders might find getting the bike out of the box and assembled.

Unboxing a Shipped Bike

You’ll want to start with a clear work area. Ideally you’re going to want to keep everything within arms reach for an easy assembly.

Your bike has been packaged to minimize any risk of damage during shipping. If you note any issues with the box please take some pictures prior to opening the package.

Go slow and take your time to avoid damaging your new bike’s finish!

Box Bike Build Common Question: Hub Spacer Missing?

Common Questions During Unboxing

Wheel Spacers

Don’t misplace (or worse throw away) your hub spacers. Hub spacers often stay attached to their plastic protective discs. Few things are more annoying than having to go fish through a trashcan looking for these spacers while building your new rig.

Fork Spacers & Cockpit

We’ve shipped the bike with the cockpit setup based on your riding details as well as with the headset bits in the proper order. If you’re going to stack all the individual pieces out take a quick photo so you can reference the location of everything.

Box Bike Build Common Question cockpit setup

Hang the Fork

When you hang the fork assemble the headset, install the spacers that were below the stem, install the stem and then install the spacers that were above the stem and stem cap. This will be the setup our team has test ridden based on your height, wingspan, etc.

Box Bike Build Common Question Handlebar angle

Install the Handlebar and Controls

Your handlebar is shipped with the rear derailleur and rear brake (if setup standard) installed on the bar.

Hanging the front brake and adjustable seatpost on the bar is easiest before you mount the bar into the stem. Make sure you’ve got the cockpit setup so the brake, shifting and seatpost lines hang cleanly (the video has a good example of this).

Once you have the controls on the bar snug the bar and stem interface.

You’ll want to hang the bar in the stem ensuring it’s centered to the bike and set to an appropriate sweep angle.

Looking down the side of the bars you’ll want the angle of the bar’s initial rise, from the center section as it thins, to set parallel or very near parallel to the fork’s stanchions, maybe leaned a slight bit forward of the stanchions.

If your handlebar is rotated too far back it creates slow or sluggish performance. If you roll the bar too far forward you’ll find the bike is nervous or twitchy. It’s a small window of adjustment for this overall. If you have questions on this let us know!

When you have your bar and stem torqued align the front brake with the rear brake as well as the seatpost remote with the shifter angle. This will give you a nice ergonomic start.

Ensure that your controls are torqued and won’t rotate or spin, particularly the grips!

Hang the Derailleur (non-Transmission bikes)

Non-Transmission bikes are shipped with the derailleur loose to minimize shipping issues. You’ll need to mount the derailleur to the hanger.

This is a pretty simple process, however, for new riders there is a single detail that can cause problems.

You’ll need to ensure that the derailleur’s b-tension bolt contacts the derailleur’s rotating tab, which then contacts the tab on the hanger. It’s an easy step, but if you forget and the tab rotates too far forward when you mount the derailleur there won’t be any chain tension.

Box Bike Build Common Question hanging a derailleur

Box Bike Build Common Question how to hold a rotor

Install the Brake Rotors

Make sure your hands are clean and you only hold the rotor by the inner spider! Rotors and pads are very easy to contaminate and any level of grease or oil will create an awful lot of extra work or may even ruin new pads.

Holding the rotor by the inner spider mount the rotor with the text facing out. Tighten the rotor bolts to torque in a star pattern like mounting a car tire.

Inflate your Tires

Typically we ship the bikes with tubeless sealant installed (it would be rare, like air freight or another anomaly that would have us ship them dry). The tires have been inflated and the tires have mounted to the rims so you should be able to bring them up to pressure with a handpump or compressor without issue.

It’s probably a good practice to inflate the tires and “thump” them against the ground while rotating the wheel to splash tubeless sealant across the inside of the entire radius of the tire. When you do the rear wheel put a hand on the cassette to minimize the chance of knocking it free (DT Swiss hubs can have the cassette pulled off without tooling and occasionally will come off when setting a tire!).

Install the Wheels

Hang the front and rear wheel and torque the axles appropriately. It’s easiest to hang the rear wheel with the derailleur set to the smallest cog on the cassette. This gives you the most play with the chain and eases wheel installation.

SRAM derailleurs should be set in the “open” mode to ease this step. Shimano derailleurs should have the clutch disengaged.
Once the rear wheel is installed reset the SRAM derailleur to “ride” or engage the Shimano clutch.

Align the Brakes

You’ll probably need to make some minute adjustments to the caliper after unboxing a shipped bike.

An easy way to do this is to use the box, or another light-colored large material behind the caliper. This lets you more easily see the brake pad to rotor spacing to align the brakes. As I’ve aged I found this suggestion by Joe works much better than trying to use a flashlight “down” the caliper.

Box Bike Build Common Question Brake Alignment

Check the Shifting

Unlike the brakes it’s very rare for a derailleur to need any adjustment after shipping. We have other content available if you do need to make small adjustments – but it’s not a common issue. Your bike should shift easily out of the box – before you start making wholesale adjustments check the derailleur and wheel installation or give us a buzz!

Box Bike Build Common Question headset adjustment

Adjust the Headset

Keeping the headset adjusted is important to your bike’s performance and lifespan.

The easiest way to adjust an MTB headset is to apply the front brake with one hand and with the other slightly rock the bike fore and aft while slowly tightening the stem cap adjustment bolt.

When the headset no longer “clicks”, or you feel the headset moving stop tightening the adjustment bolt.

If you have questions about adjusting a headset we have a full video available as well.

Straighten your Handlebars

Standing over the bike with both eyes open straighten your handlebars. BikeCo owner Joe Binatena likes to slightly slap the grips to center the bar.

Once the bar is straight you’ll tighten the stem. Switch between the stem bolts slowly bringing each up to the proper manufacturer’s torque setting.

Check to ensure your cockpit doesn’t slide prior to test riding.

Suspension

Your bike has been setup at BikeCo based on your riding specifics. We’ve included a suspension setup sheet to give you a reference point. We suggest test riding this setup and notating any small adjustments you may make. If you find yourself wanting to make wholesale adjustments contact us so we can help define what you might be feeling (our setups are typically very, very close!)

Bed In Your Brakes

We’ve done a handful of stops to start the brake bed in process. But you should do a dozen good power ups and stops to bring the brake system up to full power. You’ll be removing any manufacturing or shipping glaze on both the pads and the rotors.

Bolt Checks

New bikes need bolt checks. Period. Bring a multi-tool with you and check your cockpit and control bolts after your first test ride and keep an eye on them for the first few trail rides.

Hardware is designed to be as small and light as functionally possible so there is some settling to be expected.

Personally I find my bikes will loosen up the first couple rides then settle in where I can increase the service length (riding time) between full bolt checks.

At this point you should be ready to test ride your bike! If everything feels good at your house or the parking lot take it to your trails. The best trails are the ones you’re totally comfortable with for familiarizing yourself with a new bike.

Our team will be in touch several times with a set of loaded questions to help you fine tune your suspension, cockpit, tire pressures, etc over the first couple weeks you have your bike. Remember we’re only a phone call, email or web chat away for any questions you have on your new rig.

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Yeti Demo Day: Thursday 2/29 at BikeCo

On Thursday February 29th The Bike Company is excited to welcome the Yeti Demo Fleet. We invite riders to schedule a ride on one or more of the Yeti 29″ and 27.5″ MTB or the 160E eMTB.

Keep reading for more details on bikes and available times for the Southern California Yeti Demo Day!

Yeti will be bringing a wide range of models including the SB120, SB120 Lunch Ride, SB135, SB135 Lunch Ride, SB140, SB140 Lunch Ride, SB160 as well as the 160e. These bikes are available in a wide range of sizes to accommodate most riders.

Scroll down for availability as well as more details on the Yeti models.

Yeti Demo Day at BikeCo.com

Schedule is updated as often as possible. For most accurate scheduling call 949-470-1099 and speak to our team about scheduling your ride!

To demo these bikes you’re going to need a valid drivers’ license, credit card, helmet and other riding gear. While Yeti does supply an assortment of pedals (typically Shimano clipless) we suggest that riders bring their own pedals to demo these bikes.

Demo bookings are shown below. To schedule your demo it’s best to call the shop at 949-470-1099 and speak with one of our team to get onto the list in real time!

There are two demo windows, one with pickup at 9am and the second with pickup at 1pm.

RIDING NOTE FROM YETI:

Riders planning to transport Yeti Demo Bikes must adhere to these conditions per Cam Skalla the Demo Driver:

“Permanent” bike racks are cool with me. They must be a hitch/roof/similar rack to ensure the bike is safe.
We cannot allow shuttle of bikes on tailgate pads, and I am unable to make exceptions. My fleet is not equipped with shuttle guards, and I’m not willing to risk damage to my bikes.

Riders without access to a rack as noted may consider riding Whiting Ranch from the Shop

Yeti SB120 Demo (29″, 120mm rear travel)

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SB120 and SB120 Lunch Ride:

Cross Country capable but with a competent trail feel and personality: Down-Country right? Well the Yeti SB120 and SB120 Lunch Ride have that covered. Keep reading to Compare Yeti SB120 Builds, compare geo as well as see common upgrades and part swaps our clients take advantage of here at BikeCo.com.

As the name implies you’ll find 120mm of rear travel on the SB120. On the standard SB120 builds riders find a 130mm FOX fork spec’d while the stock Yeti SB120 Lunch Ride features a RockShox 140mm Pike.

Compare All Yeti SB120 Builds here

Yeti SB135 Demo (27.5″, 135mm rear travel)

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SB135 and SB135 Lunch Ride:

Looking for a nimble trail 27.5″ bike? Well, Yeti designed the SB135 for you. Keep reading to compare Yeti SB135 builds, learn about geo, see common part swaps and upgrades here at BikeCo.com

The Yeti SB135 is available in a standard as well as Lunch Ride spec. SB135 Lunch Ride bikes are spec’d with a 160mm fork as well as a Float X rear shocks while the standard SB135 uses a 150mm fork and a FOX DPS shock.

Click to compare the SB135 builds, investigate common upgrades or part swaps across the SB135 lineup.

Yeti SB140 Demo (29″, 140mm rear travel)

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SB140 and SB140 Lunch Ride

The 29″ SB140 is available in a standard as well as a Lunch Ride configuration. SB140 Lunch Ride bikes are spec’d with a 160mm fork as well as a Float X rear shocks while the standard SB140 features a 150mm fork and a FOX DPS shock.

Click to compare Yeti SB140 factory kits and learn more about common part swaps and upgrades on the SB140.

Yeti SB160 Demo (29″, 160mm rear travel)

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SB160:

Yeti continues to be a class leader across a wide range of bikes and the enduro SB160 29er is not an exception. With 160mm of rear travel paired with a 170mm fork, a 64 degree headtube angle with long and low geo the SB160 is at home in any terrain you can throw at it.

Keep reading to compare SB160 Build Kits and learn about the differences as well as common upgrades to the Yeti SB160.

Yeti 160 Demo (eMTB, 29″, 160mm rear travel)

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160E:

The Yeti 160E is a 29″ enduro capable eMTB. With 160mm of rear travel, a 170mm fork and a 64.5 degree headtube angle this bike is every bit a Yeti. 160E riders will find the bike equally at home in chunky terrain up and downhill.

Click for more details on the Yeti 160E eMTB.

Looking for an unbeatable deal on a class leading MTB? Shop 2023 and 2024 Yeti Sale Bikes at BikeCo.com.

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Financing with BikeCo.com

Extend your budget by financing with BikeCo.com!

Take advantage of promotional financing options and spread out your payments with a BikeCo Synchrony Sport Credit Card.

We’ve partnered with Synchrony for many years and it’s easier than ever to take advantage of financing your new MTB or eMTB with BikeCo.com.

Use the link below to see if you pre-qualify, with no impact on your credit report unless you accept their offer, or apply at Synchrony.com (note: link opens a new tab)

Financing with BikeCo Sport Credit Card

With Synchrony’s Deferred Interest repayment options you can spread out the payments on part or all of your New Bike, or Custom Wheels, Wireless Shifting Kit, or Upgraded Suspension.

0% interest if paid in full within agreed term!

BikeCo and Synchrony are here to help you get on the trails with the bike of your dreams, without breaking the bank.

With the BikeCo Sport Credit Card you can increase your spending power and it’s easy to use. See if you pre-qualify in seconds with no impact to your credit score unless you accept the offer.

Simply follow the link and see if you pre-qualify or go straight to apply.

You’ll quickly have a decision on available credit and a temporary card number issued.

Then contact our team about the product you’re interested in, they’ll enter the appropriate promo code for 6, 9, 12, 18 or 24 month financing and we’ll get your new gear out the door. What could be easier?

Questions? Chat with our team about financing your purchase with BikeCo.com

Use the button below to get your BikeCo Sport Credit Card today (note: link opens a new tab on Synchrony.com)

0% financing for 24 months on all in-stock Mondraker bikes

Questions about financing with BikeCo.com? Call 949-470-1099 for more details on the BikeCo Sport Credit Card

2024 Yeti Sale Bikes

Looking for a deal on a 2024 Yeti? Scroll through 2024 Yeti Sale Bikes below!

Questions on spec, performance or availability?

Know exactly what you’re looking for? Contact our team for specific availability, popular upgrades and other details at 949-470-1099.

20-30% Off Select Yeti Bikes

SB120: Dust & Loch
SB140: Sage & Sangria
SB160: Radium & Cobalt
ARC: Rhino

Along with the Yeti Sale BikeCo has a variety of other swaps, upgrades and incentives for your dream Yeti MTB.
Call 949-470-1099 to chat with our sales team about availability and options today.