Posted on Leave a comment

2022 Mondraker FOXY Carbon RR with Upgrades

2022 Mondraker FOXY Carbon RR with Upgrades by BikeCo.com

Even after being in the industry for a long time, #newbikeday is still fun… Enjoy some detail shots of my personal bike a 2022 Mondraker FOXY Carbon RR with some spec changes. Read on for more info on why these spec changes were, or in some cases weren’t on my list.

2022 Mondraker FOXY Carbon Detail Photos

2022 Mondraker Foxy Carbon Custom Build

Spec’ing My Bike, for Me….

We take a lot of pride in treating all of our clients projects like they are our own. But, here’s how I literally treat my own. Where I put the emphasis to allow me the most performance for every dollar in my budget.

So were did I start?

Travel and Size.

Comparing Mondraker FOXY and Yeti SB130 Geometry

Mondraker Forward Geometry

The Mondraker Forward Geometry was ahead of it’s time for sure. Now, since then all the top tier brands have come to the plate with the longer, lower, slacker updates.

At 6’1″ and a long inseam as well as long arm length (or short torso depending on how you wanna look at it I suppose) I have been kind of between the L and XL in a variety of brands.

To better understand the geometry I used BikeCo’s Interactive Geo Comparison (handy eh?)

I could quickly compare the travel, headtube angle, chainstay, bottom bracket, trail and then sizing specifics like Reach, Stack and Wheelbase.

The Large FOXY is a bit bigger bike in both travel – but not so much that I felt I was jumping way out of category – and geo sizing.

The two notable differences that jumped out at me where wheelbase and headtube/trail. 23mm longer wheelbase seemed like, oh, well, oh my right? But, then a quick glance at the math and conversion – it’s about 2% or  about 7/8 of an inch longer. Not a big deal to me. The slacker headtube angle increased the trail measurement a bit, but again when you look at percentage it’s not that big of a change. Plus, I believe there’s a geo kit available so maybe I would end up going to the 170mm fork and then steepening the headtube angle. I haven’t yet, but it’s fun to think about the “I might” right?

Anyhow – the reach was just long enough on the FOXY that I stayed in a Large even though I had been pondering an XL in the Yeti lineup as when I climb I find the “heel” of my palm sitting on my grips instead of my palms. I figured the slightly taller and longer front end would help me stay in a more confident position uphill. But, more to come on that in our Mondraker FOXY Extended First Ride!

2022 Mondraker Foxy Carbon rear profile image

Mondraker FOXY Carbon RR – the Spec that Stayed

You know, these top tier manufacturers put together a pretty respectable build these days. In fact, there were a lot of bits that not only was I “fine” with but I was actually pretty excited by. Let’s go over some of the parts that stayed and why I like them on my bike.

SRAM GX Drivetrain*

*well, most of it…

I gotta say: the X01 and XX1 stuff is a bit lighter, and in all likelihood lasts a bit longer. But damn, the modern GX bits work well. And even the GX cranks are pretty light and look refined these days.

Being a heavier, non-uphill biased (I’m looking for a good term there – like ya I appreciate the workout, but as long as I get up on my MTB I’m happy enough right?) anyway, I personally don’t notice a huge “in the moment” performance jump upgrading past the GX level on drivetrain. That’s to say when I jump on one of our guys with ti or carbon cranks neither the weight savings or added stiffness really add up to me. So the GX level cranks, shifter and derailleur give me good performance and I can put a few bucks into other areas of my build that I will notice the performance.

I spec’d an AbsoluteBlack 32t Oval chainring – it’s the first time I’ve had an oval for more than a couple rides so I’m interested to see what I’ll think of it (again, keep an eye out for the upcoming Extended First Ride!). I did the gold KMC X-12 chain for a pretty specific reason too. (I would have happily done an XX1 Gold too, but availability was an issue) Anyhow for those who know me I’m not a big bling person. But, again those who know me or follow our posts know the gold represents the Children’s Cancer Awareness and my daughter is beating infantile fibrosarcoma. So, I wanted some gold to remind me of where we’ve been and where we’re going.

When this drivetrain wears I would look at possibly an X01 cassette – but the modern 12sp SRAM stuff seems to just last and last and last (keep it relatively clean and lubed). My previous bike I had for seasons with so little drivetrain maintenance it was mind-blowing.

2022 Mondraker FOXY Carbon RR Custom Build

DT Swiss Wheels

This is an area that may or may not get upgraded the next time I have some $ burning a hole in my pocket. But for now I’m going to ride the stock wheels.

What I love: 30mm internals give a great tire profile. 36t ratchet is installed (18t feels clunky to me and the 50 something tooth one can be delicate if you pedal, shall we say, not smooth maybe?)

What I’m kind of hmmm about: small diameter flanges paired with 28h drilling. Big guys need big strong stuff right? Maybe. I dunno maybe that’s a compensating concept, we’ll see. I’ve run 28h DT before, but on the larger flange diameter hubs. Potential upside is that this wheel likely will have good side load compliance adding grip at high lean angles at speed.

Maxxis Tires

DHF EXO+ front and DHR II EXO+ rear. What’s not to love? It’s like I picked them out for myself. 3C MaxxTerra front and rear balance wear and grip well.

I buy Maxxis tires as they last the longest and provide the most consistent performance throughout their life. Why mess with saving less than the price of a good lunch when your tires literally are where the rubber meets the trail?

2022 Mondraker FOXY Carbon RR Ohlins RXF fork

Ohlins Suspension

This is actually a big, big leap for me. I’ve ridden exclusively BikeCo Pro Tuned FOX Suspension since, well, before we named it or offered it to clients…

After my test ride I knew this was a special chassis – but I also knew I HAD to have more compression support than the demo bike offered. Well, the Ohlins RXF 36 M2 features an adjustable air negative spring to fine tune ramp as well as low and high speed compression controls.

2022 Mondraker Foxy Ohlins RXF Fork

Now, the RXF is known as a very plush, linear package. So, as a heavier rider who likes a lot of front end support (typically even more than would be based on just weight – but as your ground speeds increase that suspension support improvement, even if it’s at the cost of a bit of front end grip tends to be the goal) I wanted to see if the RXF would have enough tuning range for me to dial it in the way I liked.

The FOXY’s Ohlins TTX air shock features high and low speed compression as well as volume spacing to fine tune support. I suspect that will be a pretty confident shock and doubt anything else will end up on this bike – especially if Joe keeps riding Ohlins and undoubtedly will look at narrowing the performance windows like our FOX Pro Tunes!

2022 Mondraker Foxy Carbon RR Ohlins TTX
2022 Mondraker Custom Cockpit

Part Swaps & Upgrades

OK onto the parts that went, which of course vary from a bit of vanity to straight nope, that won’t be on my bike…

Cockpit

I need my hands where I need my hands climbing or my low back isn’t going to be happy. Typically I’m looking at 35mm or 40mm rise bars to keep the stem as low as possible and the steer tube as short as possible. I run a 35mm diameter bar / stem combo. So for this bike I went with the RaceFace Turbine-R in 40mm with a 40mm rise TAG T1 Carbon bar.

The TAG T1 bar provided a bit wider, 800mm versus 780mm, larger diameter, 35mm vs 31.8mm and taller rise, 40mm vs 25mm. The Tag T1 also features the OvalTech design which creates a more sophisticated riding bar by varying the wall thickness for better vibration damping. You can see some of the details of the Tag T1 Carbon here.

The FOXY features super clean internal routing through the headset assembly. The stock build has some “teardrop” shaped spacers which look kind of cool. But, I put a front kid seat on my bike and prefer metal spacers. So I filed off the lip and made the standard spacers fit. I don’t foresee issues with this, but the kid seat mount is the reason you see it.

Ergon GE1 Grips. Well, RIP to the PadLoc WTB grips for now! After about 5 years of them change was of course terrifying hahaha… I like the Ergon grips having a bit more damping on the edge of the grip to minimize trail feedback. I also ride grips that don’t have “flared” ends as I tend to ride with my hands slightly over the edge of the trip for whatever reason. I kept the bars a bit wider to see if that negates this habit – but we’ll see. Flared end grips dig in if you ride over the edge which compromises some grip and tends to cause major pain.

2022 Mondraker FOXY with Wolf Tooth and Magura

Wolf Tooth Light Action seatpost remote. I prefer the lower pressure required by the slightly longer throw. I also appreciate the robust construction and attention to detail in the design giving it a lot of mounting options. Speaking of which, part of me wants to use the Magura specific mount, however, having the remote on its own mount allows more fine tuned placement for ergonomics.

BRAKES. Capitalized.

Honestly, brakes and tires are probably the most notable personality bits on your build. Get em right and you’re stoked. Not right, well, it’s not right.

I run Magura as they have the best combination of total power (similar to Shimano’s power) with great modulation (like Hope). Also, Magura offers brakes across a variety of budgets. Going with the MT5 saved me notably money which allowed me to redistribute the budget into areas for maybe a little bit of gold bling for my kiddo or to focus on performance parts.

2022 Mondraker Foxy Carbon RR with Magura MT5 Brakes

The Magura MT7 and MT5 are the most popular brakes in the lineup. They have some slight differences in the master cylinder shape however the major differences are in the lever and lever options.

Believe it or not I prefer the MT5’s longer “2-finger” lever, run inboard to accommodate 1 finger braking of course. Like the longer Light Action Wolf Tooth the increased length means it takes a bit more pull to get through the full stroke. This means for each mm of travel you get a more precise feel on the brake application.

Riders looking for more snap onto the power will look at the 1 finger Magura options. Riders looking for the ultimate adjust-ability will run the MT7 with the HC3 lever. Which, is awesome too… You can shop the best brakes in MTB from Magura and Shimano here.

2022 Mondraker FOXY with Magura MT Brakes

Our staff will tell you I stared and stared and stared and tried to make myself OK with keeping my red Chris King handbuilt wheels on this build. But, when I pulled the pucks out of the Magura calipers and saw this clean, murdered out look I knew it had to be black hubs… Even if Ian kept trying to find ways to make the red “work…”

2022 Mondraker Foxy Top Tube with Ergon Saddle

Seating

If you find a saddle you like why change? I ride Ergon saddles. They work. They’re comfortable. I don’t have to think about them. Perfect. I tend to run the CrMoly versions which can save you a few $ to allocate into different areas.

Liiiiiike, the seatpost. Honestly pretty close to pure vanity here. Swapped the all black 175mm OnOff Pija dropper for an all black 175mm FOX Transfer Performance. Maybe I was nervous not having any FOX on my bike? I do ABSOLUTELY love the revised saddle mounting for the FOX Transfer. Hardware is simple and brilliant. So, going with that as an upgrade reason. Wanted the easier adjust-ability and confidence I wouldn’t destroy as many bolts? Are you buying that? Maybe? OK, but it wasn’t ALL vanity…

 

OK – so there’s the starting spec on my 2022 Mondraker FOXY Carbon. I’ve got a few rides into it and am putting together a FOXY Extended First Ride Review that I will link to as soon as its wrapped up!

Shopping 2022 Mondraker MTB or eMTB? Work with the very best here at BikeCo.com to get the best attention to your spec, setup tune and after sales service.

2022 Mondraker Foxy Carbon with Ohlins

Learn more about the Mondraker FOXY’s on trail performance – check out Extended First Ride a Mondraker FOXY Carbon Review!

Posted on Leave a comment

2022 Mondraker RAZE Carbon RR Complete

2022 Mondraker Raze Carbon RR In-Stock

How mean are these lines?! The 2022 Mondraker RAZE Carbon RR design balances weight and strength while taking advantage of carbon’s unique properties to give it compliance where it needs it and stiffness where required. Oh, and it looks like it’s tearing down trail while just standing still…

2022 Mondraker Raze 130mm of Travel with Zero Suspension

The Raze features 130mm of rear travel with Mondraker’s Zero Suspension design. Zero Suspension is designed to separate braking & pedaling forces from the suspension stroke. This produces a bike with a very compliant feel and no pedal feedback even deep in the stroke.

The FOX DPS rear shock comes stock, however a lot of riders are gravitating to the more robust Float X upgrade from BikeCo.com as well.

Adding to the compliance of the design both upper and lower mounts of the shock “float” on suspension linkage rather than being fixed to the forward triangle.

2022 Mondraker Raze Zero Suspension CarbonMonoBlock Link

The CarbonMonoBlock linkage is another area Mondraker has been able to balance weight and stiffness to optimize the bike’s performance.

With the trunnion mounted shock’s wider upper mounting points the CarbonMonoBlock has additional leverage to resist twisting forces as well as providing a more compact suspension packaging on the Raze Carbon.

2022 Mondraker Raze Carbon RR Headtube

The 2022 Mondraker lineup has a unique design feature across most models: the Top Tube / Down Tube / Head Tube “X”.

The deep oval shape of the Raze frame is designed to shave weight while giving the bike a bit more compliance through the frame design.

2022 Mondraker Bikes In-Stock at BikeCo.com

One of the aspects that adds to the ultra clean lines on the Raze is the way the cable routing enters through the headset riser.

2022 Mondraker Raze Carbon RR Complete

Mondraker RAZE Carbon RR Build Spec


Frame:
Raze 29 Stealth Air full Carbon, Zero Suspension System, 130mm travel, Forward Geometry, Carbon Monoblock upper link, Boost 12x148mm rear axle, tapered head tube, 73mm BSA bottom bracket, dedicated 1x drivetrain design, HHG internal cable routing, Enduro MAX sealed bearings, shock mudguard, ISCG 05, custom frame protectors.

Sizes : Rider Size CM
Small  ~ 163 – 170
Medium ~ 167 – 178
Large ~ 175 – 188
X-Large ~ 185 – 198

Rear shock:
Fox Float DPS Factory Kashima evol LV, 205×57.5mm.
Settings: Compression 3 positions lever, low-speed compression, low-speed rebound, air preload.

Fork:
Fox 36 29 Float GRIP2 Factory Kashima, 150mm, tapered steerer tube, Boost 15x110mm axle, 44mm offset.
Settings: 3 positions with micro adjust compression, low-speed rebound, air preload

Headset: Acros custom for 1-1/2″ head tube, angular contact bearings 40x52x7, Internal cable routing

Stem: Onoff Krypton FG 30mm, CNC, 31.8mm

Handlebar: Onoff Kripton Carbon 1.0, rise: 25mm, width: 800mm, 9º backsweep, 5º upsweep, 31.8mm

Grips: Onoff Diamond, 1lock-on, 135mm

Seatpost: Fox Transfer Factory Kashima internal, diameter 31.6mm
S size: 363.5x125mm, M size: 418.3x150mm, L/XL size: 475.1x175mm

Saddle: Fizik Antares R7

Brakes: SRAM G2 RS, 4-piston. Tool-free reach and contact point adjust, Steel-backed organic pads

Rotors: Front, Centerline 180mm 6 bolt. Rear, Centerline 180mm 6 bolt.

Wheels:

Front hub: DT 350, Boost 15x110mm, IS 6 bolt
Rear hub: DT 350, Boost 12x148mm, 36T SL Ratchet system, IS 6 bolts, XD freehub

Rims: DT Swiss EX1700 Spline 29,
30mm internal width, welded aluminum, tubeless ready, 28 spokes

Spokes: DT Competition, straightpull

 

Front tire: Maxxis Dissector 29×2.4 WT, tubeless ready, 3C MAXX TERRA compound, EXO+ protection, 120TPI,

Rear tire: Maxxis Aggressor 29×2.3, tubeless ready, dual compound, Exo protection, 60TPI,

 

Crankset: SRAM X1 Carbon Eagle, Boost, DUB axle, Direct mount chain ring
S/M size: 170mm, L/XL size: 175mm

Ring: 32T, CNC-machined alloy, X-SYNC 2

Bottom bracket: SRAM DUB BSA, 73mm

Chain: SRAM GX Eagle, 12s

Derailleur: SRAM XO1 Eagle

Shift lever: SRAM Trigger GX Eagle

Casette: SRAM XG-1275, 10-52T, 12s

Derailleur hanger: SRAM UDH

Weight from Mondraker’s site: 12.5 kg

Interested in the Mondraker Raze’s larger sibling the Foxy? Check out a handful of pics of a custom Mondraker Foxy Build here

2022 Mondraker FOXY Carbon Custom Build
Posted on Leave a comment

Ibis Ripmo XT Build with Upgrades

Ibis Ripmo XT Build with Upgrades

Enjoy some shots of this Ibis Ripmo with updates. BikeCo has you covered across the board with the best in MTB from Ibis, Mondraker and Yeti.

Cockpit Setup on Ibis Ripmo

Shimano and Magura brakes are the go-to for a vast majority of riders. Shimano have a bit more “instant” bite while the Magura offers more modulation. Don’t know what’s right for you? Chat with our team about your preferences and we can get you dialed in.

FOX Pro Tune forks by BikeCo.com

Custom suspension tuning is available on FOX forks and rear shocks. BikeCo’s proprietary Pro Tune services narrow the performance window of stock product to allow more finite controls and adjustment per rider. Size, ground speed, terrain and aggression help us get your suspension right in the sweet spot for you.

Shimano XT Build on Ibis Ripmo

Whether you’re shopping Shimano, like this XT build, or SRAM Ibis has a factory build for you. And BikeCo has all the parts to dial in your build. From your favorite brakes, tires or custom wheels we have you covered.

Industry Nine Stem with OneUp Components Carbon Handlebar

The most popular handlebar right now is the OneUp Components Carbon Handlebar. Designed to provide more small bump compliance without becoming “soft”. Shop the OneUp bar here and learn more about the details that set this bar apart.

Ibis Ripmo XT Build with Upgrades

In the market? Whether you’re looking for an Ibis Factory Complete, a build with some upgrades or a custom spec banger BikeCo.com is here to dial you in. Shop in-stock and in-bound Ibis, Mondraker and Yeti bikes from BikeCo.com!

Posted on Leave a comment

2022 Mondraker Foxy Carbon RR with Upgrades!

2022 Mondraker FOXY Carbon Custom Build

With the post-pandemic marketplace shifting a bit we’re seeing clients that would tend to go full custom now picking and choosing based on availability and then updating spec to their favorite bits. This 2022 Mondraker Foxy Carbon RR with upgrades is a great example of that.

Typically there are two ways that riders utilize to get the perfect spec. BIkeCo will provide credit for the stock components which is a very popular way to do it for an upgrade here or there. The other way is to provide riders the components for them to resell on the take-off market or, in the case of this Foxy Carbon to rebuild a previous bike for sale.

The drivetrain including Cane Creek e-Wings titanium cranks, SRAM AXS wireless system and Hope brakes were all from a previous build and the client moved them onto the new Mondraker.

2022 Mondraker Foxy Carbon Front Triangle Detail

2022 Mondraker Foxy Carbon

Mondraker puts a lot of resources into putting out a well designed frame which takes advantage of the top tier carbon fiber spec and actual build quality. Not only is this look sleek and unique the design maximizes the stress flow and strength properties of carbon fiber to utilize a balance of rigidity and compliance which adds a big factor to the Mondraker trail feel. Oh, did we mention the frame design and technology produce a notably light product? Yup. That too!

In a world where many mountain bikes look the same the 2022 Foxy Carbon’s unique “X” behind the headtube quickly identifies the new Mondraker.

2022 Foxy Carbon Frame Detail forward X brace

Mondraker Zero Suspension

Mondraker’s Zero Suspension is designed to minimize chain growth allowing for your drivetrain to do its work, your brakes to do theirs while the suspension does it job.

Designed to be notably efficient even deep in the travel the Mondraker Zero Suspension is proven on race courses worldwide.

Foxy Carbon RR Rear Triangle Detail with AXS and Cane Creek eWings

As an enduro bike Mondraker knows you’re going to take this bike into fast, burly terrain and it’s ready.

The aggressive chain stay protector helps protect the beautiful finish of the Foxy Carbon as well as helps keep your bike quieter through the chunky stuff.

Mondraker Foxy Carbon Chain Stay Protector

Ohlins MTB Suspension

The 2022 Foxy Carbon RR features Ohlins suspension front and rear. As expected on a bike at this level riders will find easy tuning with a great range of adjustment on rebound, low and high speed compression.

A nice feature on the Foxy is a protective guard to minimize rock spray onto the Ohlins TTX 2 shock.

2022 Mondraker Foxy Carbon RR Ohlins TTX Rear Shock

Custom Wheels

At BikeCo.com we build a lot of custom wheels. A. LOT. This rider prefers the silent hubs and the Foxy features Onyx Racing hubs. I mention this in part because every time that I roll a bike with the Onyx hubs I’m always taken aback or worried something is wrong since I don’t hear the freehub! Similarly every time that I pull a bike with moto brakes off the rack for photos it almost inevitably hits me in the shins when I pull the wrong bike to stand it up!

Onyx Hubs on Mondraker Foxy Carbon RR

Custom Wheels

At BikeCo.com we build a lot of custom wheels. A. LOT. This rider prefers the silent hubs and the Foxy features Onyx Racing hubs. I mention this in part because every time that I roll a bike with the Onyx hubs I’m always taken aback or worried something is wrong since I don’t hear the freehub! Similarly every time that I pull a bike with moto brakes off the rack for photos it almost inevitably hits me in the shins when I pull the wrong bike to stand it up!

Other build highlights include the Hope brakes which set off the titanium Cane Creek eWing cranks really well. This bike has Ride Wrap frame protection in key spots in both gloss and matte to match the finish.

2022 Mondraker Foxy Carbon Custom Build

Foxy Carbon: 31 lbs

With Mondraker’s frame design and technology it’s typical to see the Foxy, Raze or Crafty come in lighter than many of the comparable travel chassis.

The Foxy Carbon is a bike that would be on the short list for riders looking at a Yeti SB150 or a 170mm front end Ibis Ripmo build. All three of these bikes are proven capable in EWS level enduro terrain. But, what makes these bikes somewhat unique is that all three are spirited enough to be a fun trail bike when you’re not out smashing the bigger terrain. The Foxy Carbon is a bike that would be confident and fun on your chairlift days but with a little less aggressive rear tire and possible another couple clicks of low speed compression on the rear shock is nimble enough to go out with your work buddies for the summer evening pedal.

In the market for a 2022 Mondraker? If you’re shopping a trail or enduro MTB you should be! Whether you’re looking at this Foxy or the smaller travel Raze, or the eMTB Crafty BikeCo.com has you covered.

Check out in-stock and in-bound Mondraker’s here and chat with our team about which bike and which bits are best for your build! (alliteration eh?)

Mondraker Foxy Carbon Top View

Want to check out the Mondraker Foxy’s slightly smaller travel sibling the Raze? Click here to view the Mondraker Raze Carbon RR Complete!

2022 Mondraker Raze Carbon RR In-Stock
Posted on Leave a comment

2022 Mondraker FOXY Carbon RR

2022 Mondraker FOXY Carbon RR in stock at BikeCo

BikeCo is excited to partner with ZeitBike USA, the US Mondraker distributor to bring the top tier of the Spanish MTB and eMTB lineup to the US. Check out some details on the 2022 Mondraker Foxy Carbon RR in the video and images below!

Like all of the brands we carry, as a US Mondraker Dealer BikeCo.com brings our clients access to the best in spec upgrades or swaps, the best tunes, setups and after sales service in MTB.

Featuring 150mm of rear travel and 160mm in the front the Foxy Carbon RR is a bike ready for the rowdy adventure days.

Rear suspension is controlled by the Ohlins TTX 2 air shock with adjustable PSI, Volume Spacing, Rebound, Low Speed and High Speed Compression.

Ohlins TTX 2 Air Shock HSC

The Ohlins RXF 36 M.2 fork provides riders with a 2 chamber air system, the main chamber as well as the negative, or Ramp Up Chamber.

Riders looking to increase support or bottom out resistance will increase their Ramp Up Chamber pressure similar to adding volume spacers.

Ohlins RXF 36 M2 Air and Ramp Up Chamber Mondraker Dealer BikeCo.com

The Ohlins RXF features Rebound, High and Low Speed Compression on the opposite leg.

Ohlins RXF 36 m2 LSC HSC and Rebound 22 Mondraker Dealer

2022 Mondraker FOXY Carbon RR Detail Images

Enjoy a few shots that highlight some of the build details on the 2022 Mondraker FOXY Carbon RR.

This bike features the ZERO Suspension with Ohlins fork and rear shock, Forward Geometry, a 12sp Eagle drivetrain and is exceptionally light thanks to the Mondraker frame design.

2022 Mondraker FOXY Carbon RR in stock at BikeCo
Posted on Leave a comment

Yeti SB130 with X2

Yeti SB130 with X2

Enjoy a few shots of this recent SB130 build by BikeCo.com. The Yeti SB130 with X2 shock is a popular setup and not just for riders pushing the limits of the Trail / Enduro capacity of the 137mm travel Lunch Ride.

The Float X2 offers riders control over both high and low speed rebound settings as well as high and low speed compression. Compression can be added to provide in-stroke support to aide the air spring. With the X2 riders can adjust low speed compression for more support in corners or steep chutes or the high speed compression for faster, larger impacts through the gnarly chunk.

SRAM Eagle AXS drivetrain in Gold

I love the way that the SRAM XX1 gold chain and cassette tie in with the Kashima coat Factory Transfer post and Factory 36 fork. Taking the accent color and tying in the corners of the bike, without over doing it – this client is doing it right!

With the SRAM AXS, or any of the 52t Max cable derailleurs, riders have a choice of running the newer 52t cassettes or the earlier 50t cassettes. Some riders actually prefer the 50t cassettes not needing “as much” granny gear and preferring to not have as big of a jump in the last shift. It is pretty common for racers to prefer the tighter shifting gaps to maximize power while minimizing the change of a missed shift.

AbsoluteBlack Oval Chainring

More and more riders are trying the oval chainrings like this AbsoluteBlack setup. Designed to ease the load on your legs when outside of your most powerful segments of your pedal stroke oval chain rings then increase in diameter as your cranks spin into stronger positions.

It’s about 50/50 here at BikeCo’s staff on oval versus standard chainrings. Really it’s a preference thing – I plan to ride an oval ring for more than a couple test rides soon to see if my opinion changes after more miles. The only thing mechanically I’ve noted on oval rings is the added pull on the rear derailleur to keep tension, but your derailleur is working hard through the suspension articulation anyhow. I imagine it is just a matter of making sure it’s lubricated now and then to help ensure your expected service life.

Magura MT7 brakes with HC lever

Magura MT7 brakes with HC levers are a super common upgrade to SRAM bikes.

The Magura brakes provide great modulation and power as well as a consistent feel across a range of terrain.

Depending on your riding conditions Magura offers a range of rotors designed to accommodate different levels of heat input, such as the 2 piece MDR-P rotors you’ll often see on burlier Enduro bike or eMTB setups.

Yeti SB130 with Float X2

In the market for a banger Yeti, Ibis or Mondraker?

Looking for that factory complete, or a factory build with some spec upgrades? Even a full custom? BikeCo.com has you covered.

Check out our in-stock and in-bound bikes here then chat with our team about the changes you’re interested in to perfect that build to your riding.

Return to Top of Page

Posted on Leave a comment

Custom Ibis Ripley with Float X

Custom Ibis Ripley with Float X

Adding some Enduro punch to the Ibis Ripley.

Couple mods worth noting on this Ripley build: the rear shock has been swapped to the FOX Float X giving the bike a bit more rear damper heat capacity as well as some additional compression tuning options. The front of this bike features FOX 36 with travel modification to maintain the Ripley’s quick handling and playful personality. The GRIP2 damper provides some additional compression tuning as well compared to the spec’d FIT4. Now, for riders who might not be looking to go quite as burly the FOX 34 offers a GRIP2 damper option as well, however it doesn’t have the burp valves and isn’t quite as stiff.

This client has gone with high volume tires to add even a touch more grip and suspension to the bike. Remember, a lot of your small bump compliance comes from tire and PSI setup particularly when leaning the bike on flat corners where the suspension becomes less effective (more on that coming hopefully late next week in a new video series)

Return to Top of Page

Posted on Leave a comment

Custom Mondraker RAZE Build…

Custom Mondraker RAZE dream build by BikeCo

Daydreaming about how I’d build up a Mondraker RAZE for myself…

BikeCo.com provides riders access to spec swaps to dial in personality, performance and look.

So what on my photoshopped dream custom Mondraker RAZE is fashion and what is function?

FUNCTION First

Both on this blog and in my build goals I put Function First… Some things are that important to my bike’s personality and my trail enjoyment that I can make sacrifices in other areas to make sure I’ve got my favorite bits in key places. This list is prioritized from top to bottom.

Tires. I will admit where I’m spoiled and, well, I’d rather not ride a bike than ride it with tires I KNOW won’t work… It’s one thing to test something you have reasonable faith in – but stretching way out in the tire world is a good way to end up in the bushes on your ride. I ride Minion DHF or DHR II front options with EXO+ or EXO sidewalls. In the rear I tend to lean into the same tires mentioned above or possibly an Aggressor. EXO+ or EXO sidewalls and lately I’ve been running a CushCore XC to keep off the rims a bit more.

Magura Brakes. Insert your favorite brake brand here. I prefer the modulation and power that Magura offer. Riders looking for a bit more instant bite tend to gravitate to Shimano’s lineup. Both Magura and Shimano offer a models at a variety of price points.

In my case, I run MT7 brakes currently but I’ve run MT5 for years and years (same pair made it through like 5 bikes or something?). If budget is tight I’m leaning into the MT5s for sure or maybe the MT7s with a standard lever. Both the MT5 and MT7 have lever upgrades down the line.

FOX Float X Rear Shock. Being a heavier rider I like the idea of a more robust shock. Also, since I tend to ride a variety of terrain, but my average before or after work rip isn’t super burly I gravitate to bikes like the RAZE or Yeti SB130’s travel range. You can get a bit more punch out of the bike with the Float X instead of the inline DPS.

Saddle. If you have a saddle you know you like stick with what works! Ergon and SQ Labs are the favorites around here although a lot of riders have been true to WTB for decades and why change what works?

Bars / Grips. Like your saddle if you know what you like you should run it. I run 785mm carbon bars from Renthal or RaceFace in 35mm rise. I find the sweep on both of these bars creates a nice, confident feel. Depending on your bar width and weight you might shop stiffer or more compliant bars. If you’re cutting your bars way down remember you’re losing some leverage and going to make them stiffer. So, if you start with the 810mm DH bar of one of your heros it might turn into a teeth rattler by the time you’ve got it fit to you. Chat with the sales team for insight on which bar is right for you.

FUNCTION & FASHION

So I feel like this is kind of a grey area.

XX1 Chain. The last couple builds I have run GX drivetrains, but, I have upgraded to the XX1 chain with great results. If you keep the drivetrain relatively clean and lube it appropriately the SRAM Eagle systems provide amazing total mileage.

The SRAM XX1 Chain is also available in Black (my current go to on a blacked out bike), Gold, Copper, or AXS Rainbow. All of these chains perform the same but the little bit of color flare can really set off a build.

Which brings us to

FASHION

It’s funny, I wear all black, nothing branded except for the occasional BikeCo hat or sweatshirt (or my Fight Like A Kid hat these days) but, when it comes to my bikes, motorcycles or cars I admit to being kinda vain! And why not – you should love looking at your bike. These Fashion bits are mainly vanity there are a variety of bits that can perform and hit a wide price point – but if you’ve got it in the budget why not go all in on looks too?

Putting together my interpretation of this dream Mondraker RAZE custom I wanted to compliment the frame’s colorway (which BTW, I really love even as someone who usually runs murdered out bikes).

I started the Fashion parts list with the XX1 Copper chain because I wanted to compliment the Kashima coated rear shock and fork.

FOX Factory Transfer Dropper. I also added a Factory dropper post for the same reason. Moving the Kashima accent color to all of the bike’s edges helps cohesively tie it in.

Magura MDR-P Rotors. While these are great rotors I tend to run the Magura HC options. But I loved the way the black insert looked (and made it easier to photoshop!)… The MDR-P has a greater heat capacity and is available in a 220mm option for riders who are really hard on their rotors.

Total Fashion change, but I pulled the forward facing “36” from the fork legs and I think the yellow graphics are much more balanced without it.

This one the guys at the shop will argue with me about – it really comes down to personal experience and preference…

SRAM AXS. Like I said, personal thing here. I run SRAM cable on my bikes. I like the simplicity. BUT, when I was messing about with the graphic removing the shift cable really does clean up the cockpit look! (Sorry I didn’t PS the rear derailleur in – I had a deadline on some stuff but I did remove the rear shift cable from the image!

What Would You Build?

Do you have your dream list of bits? How would you build your custom Mondraker RAZE?

Call 949.470.1099, email us, or use the website’s live chat to get answers on which bits are must have and which are “if they fit in the budget” specs based on your riding.

Learn More About My Dream Bits

Want to learn more about what we’ve mentioned? Check out the links to the products listed above:

Mondraker Bike Availability

TIRES learn about sidewall, compound and tread patterns for the best performance

BRAKES including Rotors & Maintenance

 

Custom Mondraker RAZE comparison
Posted on Leave a comment

Yeti SB130 Lunch Ride – All You Can Eat!

Yeti SB130 Lunch Ride Custom

So, the 160mm fork and extended travel rear shock, about 137mm of total travel, on the SB130 make it a lunch ride. But what happens when you take that Yeti SB130 Lunch Ride suspension to the next level with a FOX 38 and FOX Float X2? Well its ready for the all day, sit in the restaurant till they kick you out all you care to eat Lunch Ride right?

SRAM AXS with XX1 Copper Chain

This X01 AXS kit is set off with an XX1 Copper Chain and a hint of accent color with the OneUp Chain Guide & Bash.

The orange upper guide helps with chain retention in rough terrain, or when you time backwards in corners, etc. You can see how the black bash guide sits slightly lower than the chain ring providing protection from rocks and logs you might come across.

Many riders think that the bash guide is only for riders really riding the super gnarly stuff, but, from my experience I’m much more likely to smack my chain ring trying to climb technical stuff.

Magua MT7 brakes, HC Rotor and i9 Hubs laced to WTB rims

So, let’s get it straight: Custom is still a thing! But, you might have to wait a bit for your dream parts.

We’re seeing a lot of riders take advantage of availability to get on trail while waiting for some bits. Example: custom Hope brakes or like Shimano Saint brakes that might have a long ship ETA riders are taking delivery with the stock brakes and then flipping them on the used market once the other bits come in. We’re seeing this with stock wheels too if you’re waiting for that dream King color or whatever.

In this bike’s case i9 has had great turnaround times and the turquoise hubs are a great accent to the orange fork and a nod to the Yeti racing heritage. These are handbuilt wheels by our team laced to WTB rims with DT Swiss Spokes. BikeCo has some of the best wheel builders in MTB and we are able to fine tune your build to your riding style, ground speeds and weight. Adding compliance or stiffness to the build depending on requirements makes a big difference in total traction.

Stopping this beast are 4 piston Magura MT7 HC3 brakes – which BikeCo keeps great stock on and are an easy update to your build!

Chris King Inset in Yeti SB130 Frame

Unlike pressfit headsets Inset options are relatively easy to change (and don’t add stress to the frame’s headtube driving cups in and out).

If your bike has a pressfit headset why not put in a rebuildable Chris King headset that will last the life of the frame?

If your bike, like the Yeti lineup, features Inset headsets the Chris King is still a lifetime headset with some basic maintenance. And available in a variety of colors like this Matte Mango you can accent your bikes’ cockpit with a touch of flare.

Custom Yeti Builds by BikeCo.com

In the market for a Custom? Semi-Custom? Stock built with some key upgrades or just a Stock Yeti, Ibis or Mondraker? BikeCo.com has you covered. Reach out to our team for availability and timing on your favorite XC, Trail or Enduro bikes.

Return to Top of Page

Posted on Leave a comment

Mullet Yeti SB140 Build

Mullet Yeti SB140

Enjoy a few shots of this Mullet Yeti SB140 build before it heads to it’s new home.

The “mullet” configuration, somewhat ironically given the hairstyle, features a larger front wheel. With Yeti Mullet’s that means a 29″ front on the 27.5″ frames like the SB140 or SB165.

Increasing the front wheel’s diameter produces some notable performance differences.

The three most notable changes in a mullet Yeti SB140 are:

Increased Roll Over: the lower angle of attack means the wheel is less likely to “chalk” on terrain costing you momentum. This is particularly notable riding in steep terrain.

Improved Front Wheel Braking Power: the longer contact patch from the increased wheel circumference allows more powerful braking.

Steering “Damper”: the larger wheel provides a bit more “mellow” or slower input to the steering which can increase confidence particularly at speed.

Some advantages of the smaller rear wheel, rather than going to a 29er include:

Slightly faster acceleration with the smaller wheel, although carrying top speed tends to lend itself to the 29er.

The smaller wheel also allows riders to get lower on the bike in steep terrain or jumps.

PNW Handlebar & Remote

PNW remotes and handlebars are popular updates to cockpits. Particularly the PNW remote which has a padded, high grip patch that works well in sloppy, wet conditions.

Yeti SB140 Complete

More riders are gravitating to the oval chain rings like this option from AbsoluteBLACK. Compatible with both SRAM and Shimano drivetrains the oval rings are designed to ease the load on your muscles, and knees for us grey hair riders, allowing you more power in the power position.

Yeti SB140 Mullet, Ice Pick Headtube Badge

This image is mainly for me… I always love the detail that goes into the Yeti Ice Pick headtube badge. It’s the little details that make a big difference. Yeti’s commitment to cutting edge geometry, the Switch Infinity Suspension, great carbon options in both their Carbon & Turq series all the way down to the graphics and headtube. Love it.

Mullet Yeti SB140 Build by BikeCo

Are you in the market for a Mullet? A standard 29 or 27.5? At BikeCo.com we have you covered with the best in MTB.

Shop In-Stock bikes as well as bikes that are In-Production and on the way then chat with our sales team about getting just the right spec for your riding.

Whether you’re looking for a mullet, custom tuned suspension, brakes or cockpit package, custom wheels, etc, etc – BikeCo.com is your resource.

Return to Top of Page