First Look: Transition TransAM Steel Hardtail

Nov 2, 2023
by Jessie-May Morgan  
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After a seven year hiatus, Transition has reinstated the TransAM hardtail. Respecting the bike's history, this latest iteration materializes with a chromoly steel frameset, but with a geometry that positions it as a thoroughly modern example of the hardcore hardtail. There are four sizes to choose from (S-XL) and, thanks to the addition of sliding dropouts, the rear-center length can be set anywhere between 425mm and 437mm, equipping the rider with the means to meaningfully alter the bike's balance and character.
TransAM Details
• 29" wheels
• 150mm fork
• 64° head angle, 76.5° seat angle
• 430-510mm reach (S-XL)
• Chainstays adjustable from 425-437mm
• Complete Bike: $2,599 USD (Blue), $2,699 USD (Chrome)
• Frame: $799 (Blue), $899 USD (Chrome)
transitionbikes.com

Out of the box, the Transition TransAM rolls up on a 29" wheelset, fronted by a 150mm travel fork. It can work with a 140mm, or even a 160mm fork for those looking more more give, but 150mm is already on the longer end of the spectrum, even for a hardtail of this genre. It props the front end up to give a generously slack head angle of 64°. Considering those numbers, and the riding on display in Transition's launch video, you can start to appreciate what the TransAM is all about.

True to the appealing simplicity of a hardtail, Transition is keeping things straightforward with external cable routing. With the exception of the stealth routing provided for a dropper seat post, that is. Easily replaced is the SRAM UDH, home to a 12s mechanical SRAM NX derailleur on the single model launching today. That said, those wanting to keep vulnerable moving parts to a minimum will be delighted to find they can switch to single-speed, using the adjustable sliding dropouts to tension the chain.

The TransAM is furnished with ISCG 05 tabs for the mounting of a chain guide and bash guard. It gets two sets of bosses on the downtube, offering up space for a bottle as well as tools.

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Sliding dropouts mean the chainstay length can be adjusted from 425mm through to 437mm
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Geometry

There's nothing completely wild about the geometry of the TransAM, but it sure is on the more aggressive end of the spectrum. Married to the slack head angle is a relatively steep (for a hardtail) seat tube angle of 76.5°, coupled with generous reach figures across the board - 485mm on the large.

Though not specifically designed for it, the TransAM can be set up with an MX wheelset simply by switching out the rear wheel. We don't have a complete geometry chart for that configuration, but we can tell you the head and seat tube angles slacken off by 1° with the bottom bracket lowered by 13mm and the reach reduced by around 10mm. As the 29" configuration of the TransAM has a relatively tall BB height of 320mm (unsagged), the geometry of the mullet setup should still be very much workable.

Seat tubes are short and dead straight. So, riders of all sizes should be able to benefit from a relatively long travel dropper, a feature that will prove highly beneficial if the bike is to be ridden in line with its intentions. On the one and only build model launching today is the adjustable OneUp offering. So, stock dropper lengths are respectable with the S benefiting from a 150mm, the M a 180mm, and the L & XL a 210mm.

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The double-butted CrMo frameset is gusseted for reinforcement
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Short, straight seat tubes for long travel droppers
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Clearance for 29" x 2.5" tires
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Two sets of bosses on the downtube for your preferred accoutrements

Other key frame details:
• Maximum rear rotor size of 223mm
• 12mm x 148mm spacing
• 73mm BSA Threaded BB
• 34T maximum chainring size

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Price & Availability

The Transition TransAM is sold with a lifetime warranty. You can pick up the frame alone for $799 USD (Blue) / $899 USD (Chrome), should you wish to create your dream build.

Or, you can get it as a complete bike for $2,599 USD (Blue) / $2,699 USD (Chrome). That money fetches you a Marzocchi Z2 fork, a SRAM NX 12 Speed drivetrain, SRAM DB8 brakes, and a OneUp dropper seat post. It rolls on WTB ST i30 rims laced to Novatec hubs, with a Maxxis Assegai / Minion DHRII pairing, both of the EXO+ variety. Making up the cockpit is a 40mm stem and a RaceFace Chester 35 bar, furnished with ODI Elite Flow lock-on grips.






Author Info:
jessiemaymorgan avatar

Member since Oct 26, 2023
52 articles

316 Comments
  • 168 18
 that build spec is absolute trash. I get it, they are trying to keep it under $3000, which isn't easy these days, but f*ck.....NX and the worst wheels money can buy????

just get the frame, spend $2000 on bits sourced from discounters and PB buy/sell and have a monumentally better bike, without all the trash you can't even sell on PB. lmao
  • 31 1
 Totally agree. This is very much a frame build up bike in my opinion. $3K in this bike market for a hardtail with NX/WTB/Z2? No thank you.
  • 32 2
 What's wrong with the wheels? I've been riding these for 2+ years on my hardtail and they've been absolutely fine and are still true.
  • 11 2
 Aye, also curious with the wheels. I get they're not top end, but have ran a few sets now on hardtails and abused the life outta them. No bother at all.
  • 17 9
 @JonnyTheWeasel:

Those wheels came stock on my Kona Process 153, and I can confirm they are the worst.

I was a literally brand new rider (first bike, new to mountain biking), and I managed to ding them constantly, and flat spot them in less than a year on very moderate features (3-5ft drops, no gap jumps) through DD tires at ~25-28psi (I’m about 200lbs geared up).

They also weighed about 2350g for anyone curious.
  • 8 1
 I feel like that's the theme with a lot of these bigger brands hardtail builds. They'll throw on a decent fork and crap everywhere else. Its like they think we only get hardtails because we cant afford FS bikes and proceed to throw crap components on them.. and stil charge more than they're worth. I want a NICE hardtail and it seems like the only way to get one is to build it. The frame looks really nice and I like the geo but if I want a full build I'll probably get a Knolly Tyaughton, Knoa Hanzo ESD, or even Marin El Roy now that they're only like $1700.
  • 9 1
 Yeah, the frame is promising but the build spec leaves something to be desired. This makes me feel better about my recent Commencal Meta HT purchase.
  • 4 3
 @JonnyTheWeasel: I guess it comes down to rider weight and use case. perhaps I was being unfair as I am 190lbs and ride like wheels owe me money. lol. also on a big enduro.....so yeah, I have exploded a couple of those rims.
  • 7 3
 @JonnyTheWeasel: Novatec hubs are actually bomber and don't deserve the hate they get, the WTB rims on the other hand dent as easily as cheese and last about a year before you split the seam and put them in the recycling pile
  • 10 0
 The Z2 is fine, but my old hardtail came with similar wheels which I promptly destroyed. NX is trash and should be abolished. Don't even speak of SX.
  • 2 0
 @Mtbdialed: I weigh 90kgs and wouldn't exactly describe my riding style as "dainty". In 2 and a half years I haven't even needed to take a spoke key to them.
  • 1 1
 that's how I built my hardtail
  • 3 0
 @vtracer: Not in my experience. Still as round and as strong as the day I got them.
  • 15 0
 I can deal on the fork, its ok, but NX is trash... it would have been a way better choice to put Deore on there. As for wheels, any sub $5k bike has trash wheels typically.
  • 6 1
 no excuse to not spec slx and up, even if paired with deore cassette and brakes (which are gonna work perfectly well) the cost difference is tiny. I am building a frame up rigid bikepacking bike right now, I was going to go 11 speed used shimano stuff, but a 12 speed drivetrain with the top end sunrace cassette was just too cheap to say no to the wider range and contemporary compatibility with the rest of my bikes.
  • 4 0
 Totally agree, but the bike as is will still sell to bellingham bros buying it for the name.
  • 7 0
 Go with something like a Ragley and get XT/SLX drivetrain & brakes, a 160mm Lyrik and Nukeproof Horizon wheels that in my experience have been great. $2K USD

www.chainreactioncycles.com/us/p/ragley-blue-pig-race-hardtail-bike-deep-sea
  • 9 1
 @plyawn: Or just build it frame up if you don't like the build
  • 2 1
 Those wtbs are heavy as fuck
  • 2 1
 @iian: mine lasted about 8 rides before they weren't a circle anymore. Maybe it's a qc issue
  • 2 1
 @DCF: Just not very good wheels. Most bikes at this price point do not have good wheels.
  • 5 0
 Or check pinkbike buysell adds for a complete already good to go that’s custom built
m.pinkbike.com/buysell/3755274
  • 13 0
 Yep... Get the Knolly Tyaughton Steel - Shimano Deore spec is on super sale for $2k USD or $2519 CAD. Gets you a Bomber Z1, Shimano Deore and DT Swiss wheels. Or...

GX spec is $3600 USD or $4600 CAD but you get a Fox 36 Grip2, Magura MT5's, and Sram GX peppered with overall better spec.

knollybikes.com/en-ca/collections/bikes/products/tyaughton-steel
  • 4 1
 @ACP5811: is there a switch chip for mullet option ...
  • 3 0
 @islandforlife: The reach on that frame is silly long... like 495 on a large
  • 6 0
 Already a way nicer build on buysell for the same price lol www.pinkbike.com/buysell/3755274
  • 8 1
 @ocnlogan: dude a 90+kg novice will dink every rim lol
  • 2 0
 @Matt115lamb:

Agreed, sort of. Worse lines then for sure, but speed was lower and feature sizes were lower then too.

My buddy started riding at the same time as me, hit all the same features on his equally low end commencal meta AM (Novatec hubs, not sure on rims), with EXO tires and 100kg+ weight didn’t have any issues.

In fact, his hubs died before the rims (4 years in). My rims didn’t make it a single year, with less body weight, thicker casing tires, and more psi.

My conclusion was that the rims were made of cheese.

When I reached out to WTB to see what I should replace them with, I found they are so low end you cannot even buy them as a normal consumer (oem only).

To be fair though, low end bikes usually have very cheap wheels. So this bike having them isn’t a huge shock.
  • 2 0
 @ocnlogan: oem doesn’t necessarily mean shit though , I used oem roval rims on a kenevo for 3years and are still fine but most folks will slate them . I could buy a £1k rim and smash it 1st ride !
  • 1 1
 @Matt115lamb: they are def novice if they’re dinking their rims.
  • 4 2
 @Matt115lamb: come ride in Colorado instead of the sandy rolling hills of Surrey, and tell me its only novices that damage rims. lmao
  • 1 2
 @ratedgg13: you know...I used to feel the same way. Then I bought a low-end hardtail for training and thrashing around; it came with SX.

At first it was horrible...and then not so bad once the shifter and derailleur settled in. I know they're plastic. Obviously no where near as awesome as my XTR on other bike...but it does work.

Anyhow, I know, cool story and all. ymmv.
  • 3 0
 @Takaya94: Right?? The Knolly Ty with Deore/Z1/DT Swiss wheels is $2000 right now. Who in the right mind would pick this over that?
  • 1 0
 @Mtbdialed: never said only novices and you can ride smooth on any trail Wink
  • 3 0
 @dmackyaheard: people who still have these wheels are getting upset
  • 2 0
 @DCF: What wheel set do you want to come on this bike for $2599? Its just going to be some other heavy and soft wheel set. Sorry your wheel set is square now, I recommend upgrading it.
  • 1 0
 @freedayff: I would because the geo on the Knolly doesn't suit me, and aesthetically the Knolly isn't as good looking.
  • 2 0
 @dmackyaheard: I ride every North Shore trail with it, from XC to DB, the geo is very versatile in almost every situation unless you want to smash absurdly fast. Personally I find its look sexy AF. The TransAM top tube looks too high and doesn't line up with the back tube. Personal taste I guess, old school vs new school. I grew up with Chromag and dig their looks.
  • 2 0
 The rims don't even appear on WTB's own website
  • 3 0
 @dmackyaheard: idk $2600 is a weird price point honestly. Seems expensive for all the parts that come on it, not just the wheels. And considering it's a hard tail that's hard on wheels, id hope for some Stan's like they spec on other Transition bikes. Just my opinion though. I own a spire and thinks it's the best bike ever and am sort of shopping for a hardtail so that's why I'm voicing my disappointment in spec vs price. I'll wait for it to go on sale and get one though
  • 8 0
 honestly they need to stop speccing sram SX/NX on any bike, its trash. I'd rather have microshift. The rest's fine. Heck it'd be even cheaper!
  • 3 0
 I can confirm they are the worst rims I have ever ridden. They lasted around 20 miles. Not only do they dent but they slice the tire as they dent.
  • 2 0
 @islandforlife: Freeking eh. Love this bike!
  • 1 0
 @freedayff: I’m with you bru.
  • 1 1
 @dmackyaheard: Nope, short head tube = lots of customization. Add spacers to bring up your stack and your reach is now 480. I ride a bike with a similar long reach + short head tube. Works great.
  • 1 0
 @allbiker: Man, a good steel hardtail with proper geo, XT spec'd drive, 160mm fork and mullet setup is an enduro beast!
  • 3 0
 @plyawn: blue pig owner here, great bike
  • 1 0
 @frorider2: +1 for the blue pig, love my one
  • 1 0
 @plyawn: I wanted to buy a Ragley for a build up frame and although they are cheap, the shipping price to Canada for the frame only is around $250 which seems insane making the cheap frame a $700 buy. Their shipping costs have skyrocketed.
  • 4 0
 I don't know. Good fork, good dropper, good tires. The drivetrain leaves a lot to be desired, but you can run it for a year as long as you look after it. I think they prioritized the important components.
  • 1 0
 @crussell: good choice: I also have Commencal Meta HT (bought as a frame) and I am very very satisfied with my purchase.
  • 1 0
 @DCF: I have had more issues with Stan's wheels than WTB. I actually wrote off a Stans Flow last weekend in Moab. To be fair, I have had issues with all alloy wheels with the exception of DT Swiss.
  • 2 0
 @freedayff: Might be a regional thing. I live in Colorado, and while we have zones that compare to Van in terms of pitch, that is pretty uncommon. Super long bikes do not work as well out here. I used to have a Fugitive LT and loved it, but the new Fugitive 138 is simply too long for a trail bike out here, so I got a Canfield Tilt instead. I looked at the Knolly hardtail when it came out, but the Geo is a no go, and I don’t like the way it looks.
  • 1 0
 @islandforlife: The stack height is already too high. The $1999 build on the Knolly is better, but I would build frame up regardless so that doesn't matter as much.
  • 1 0
 I’d even prefer the 9 speed cues @dmackyaheard:
  • 1 0
 @islandforlife: wow, that deal is amazing. It almost seems like a mistake.
Now, my second guessing my Meta HT. This has been a real rollercoaster.
  • 3 0
 @crussell: You cant go wrong with a Meta HT though! Deals are just coming left n right these days and its driving me nuts ha. Just gotta get out n ride and appreciate what'cha got. Most bikes can rip these days so its hard to get a true lemon, I think at least.
  • 1 0
 @islandforlife: BUT....it's a Transition! All the cool kids run Transition!
  • 1 0
 @smaptyjohnson: I can get on board with that. My fat bike (I know, make fun of me) came with SX eagle, and while it is trash, it does work, and it s a fat bike, so it’s not a real bike anyway.
  • 1 1
 @freedayff: And the Knolly is a better bike. I have the Ti version and it is best bike I have had to date, and that is saying something considering my past steeds.
  • 2 1
 I used to bash NX when I was working as a mechanic... but I got my Repeater in may, ive done 1550km and I havent even had to adjust the cable in my NX, its worked amazingly. Havent even changed my chain and it still shifts absolutely mint. The WTB rims lasted about 3 week though, absolute shite
  • 1 0
 @vtracer: no tech nova.. tell my warranty team how many issues you don't have lol we will not be going back to Novatec the numbers tell
  • 1 1
 @JonnyTheWeasel: well Jonny, there is quite a spectrum when it comes to riding level and local terrain.
  • 1 0
 Spec with this with Micro shift advent x and a marz bomber up front
  • 2 0
 PSA for anyone looking for wheels for their own budget build, Canfield has BOGO sets of e13 lg1 plus enduro wheels with xd drivers right now. $499 for 2 complete sets with tubeless valves. They're probably not great, but it doesn't get much cheaper.
  • 1 0
 @sammyboy2038: my sample size is one, so Wink
  • 1 0
 @p1nkbike: tell me you don't know how OEM component contracts work, without telling me you don't know how OEM component contracts work....
  • 1 0
 @Mtbdialed: you work there ?
its not my contract to sign. the entire idea is to figure your shit out... the "OH NOES WE SELL 10K BIKES BUT ITS ALL SRAMS FAULT" doesn't fly.
  • 1 0
 @p1nkbike: dude.....touch grass.


I was commenting about how Sram forces the hand of OEMs to run their shitty brakes and other garbage if you want to run Eagle...

I was in no way defendind sram...
  • 1 0
 @iian: I've no issue with novatech hubs but I've found the wtb rims dent very easily especially on a hardtail
  • 1 0
 @Takaya94: have a look at cotic
  • 1 0
 @briain: Oh yeah, I love their stuff. I currently have a Chromag Surface Voyager and am stoked on that though. Just got a Ferrum LVN 160 Steel FS as well. One day I'll have a Cotic to add to the steel collection though!
  • 67 14
 It's like my steel hardtail but shiny! I like it! It's probably a little too much travel though. I feel like 130/140 is the sweet spot for a hard tail. Leave those big bike forks to the full squish guys.
  • 28 0
 This frame geo actually feels like it may work better at 140 - the BB drop +5mm to a more reasonable 55mm (I'd prefer over 60), head angle is still around 64.5 unsagged, SA bumps up to 77. Combined with the reasonably long chainstays (I'd prefer longer) and I think it'll ride great on a shorter fork.
  • 4 1
 It works with 140.
  • 15 12
 Agreed, never really understood big forks on a hardtail…your knees are gunna explode before needing all of that travel
  • 11 1
 @squiffybiker: It really depends on the terrain you ride and overall design/geo of the bike, I have a bike with similar geometry and the 150 balances it out really well. It's clearly not a XC bike, but you have to remember that hardtails pivot and rotate differently than a FS bike does, they function completely differently, and your weight sits differently on the bike as well.

Too many riders emphasize suspension travel alone when it needs to be taken into consideration with the rest of the bikes geometry and design.
  • 14 1
 Eh, I have a 150mm Lyrik on my Norco Torrent. Feels great. With such a slack static HTA, I never felt like the front end got too steep even in heavy compressions.
  • 21 1
 My last couple Aggressive Hardtails had 150-170mm forks on them and 2.5-2.6" tires. You'd be surprised how much you can ride and how fast and steep with an aggressive HT and a big fork. I got some PRs and tight downhills and no pedal bob on the way up. So fun, I kinda want to build another one!
  • 10 0
 @squiffybiker: Not really, you effectively "ride the fork" when on a ht. Up to 150mm it makes sense, and it'd better be a good fork too.
  • 6 0
 @rideorange525: Agreed. I have PR'd several spots on a Honzo ESD single speed..
  • 12 3
 Nah 160/170 hts are the truth
  • 6 13
flag IF-OBA-WILLS-IT (Nov 2, 2023 at 9:10) (Below Threshold)
 if i lived somewhere where i thought i needed 150mm of travel i would be riding a full sus bike.
  • 5 0
 @squiffybiker: nah, took a hardtail to Trestle with a 160 fork…got beat up a bit sure, but used it all and was glad a had a mezzer over the z2 it came with. I was passing dudes on FS too, was not going slow.
  • 6 0
 Chromag owner cries in Doctahawk
  • 8 4
 @squiffybiker: You obviously don't ride the Shore.
  • 4 0
 @squiffybiker: I've got a 160 hardtail which is a lot of fun.

Two things- a big hit on the rear and it pivots at your pedals and compresses the fork, and I run the last 20mm as extreme bailout only.
  • 2 0
 I rode a Nordest Bardino with the same fork traveled to 150mm and 120mm and the 120 version felt so much better. Plus steeper seat angle and plenty slack a head angle.
  • 5 0
 I have a 150mm Ragley. On paper, it seems like overkill and imbalanced but it is the only bike I grab anymore to ride any sort of trail.
  • 5 2
 I find any suspension difficult to deal with on a hardtail frame. 80-100mm is my limit and even with that I find the changes in effective head angle disorienting. Suspension only works properly when balanced. Having 150mm on the front means your head angle is changing between 64 and 72 degrees during compression! Who thinks 72 degrees is a good head angle for a mountain bike?
  • 8 2
 @jbuzzinco: Nobody is riding with the fork bottomed out for a long period of time.
  • 5 1
 @squiffybiker: I rode a 650b wheel size HT with a 160mm Lyrik all summer on mostly Enduro and DH tracks; never caught myself saying "I wish I had less travel!"
  • 7 0
 I have a Rootdown with a 160mm fork that shares fairly similar geometry to this Transition. It's definitely kind of a strange bike in that I can take it pretty much anywhere I'd take my full-suspension, but it doesn't really offer any advantage on more relaxed terrain where a lot of people would actually prefer to have a hardtail. So it ends up with a ton of overlap with my full-suspension, highly-inefficient, pig of a trail bike.

In the end, what to ride is a day-of decision, with the hardtail allowing familiar trails to feel a bit different. But, while it's a fantastic bike, it's often difficult to choose it over my full-suspension (a bike I absolutely love) given how much they have in common.

...though I will say that it's certainly a 'nice-to-have' in the winter months.
  • 3 0
 @shlotch: I agree, I have a ragley blue pig with a 160 fork and I wish I got something a little more xc oriented. It isn't any faster than my full suspension on flatter more xc terrain. On steep rocky stuff it's just straight up less fun than my full suspension. It's kind of the worst of both worlds
  • 2 0
 @squiffybiker: your kneed, used properly, can take a heck of a lot more than your wrists! I think it comes down to how you ride your hardtail. And then, where.
  • 1 0
 It been along along time but man did I have fun on my .243 with 170mm fork!
  • 4 0
 I love my Kingdom Ti hardtail and ride it more than my full sus, especially in the rainy winter here. It's not as fast downhill but I often find it more fun and interesting since your technique has to be on point down the more challenging trails. I switch between two wheelsets: 29" XC carbon wheels with minion SS tires and a mixed (29/27) carbon enduro wheelset with double down tires. Tried different forks and have settled on a Fox 140. I also liked it with a 160 on the steeper downs, but 140 was a better compromise switching back and forth with the XC wheels. Can't wait to ride this weekend
  • 2 0
 @Dagabba: Took the thoughts outta my brain.
  • 7 0
 @corerider: I think some people don’t even begin to appreciate what u can ride on a hard tail
  • 1 0
 @jbuzzinco: You'd have loved the 90s
  • 1 3
 @ShredKC: Exactly right. Because when you bottom out AND your head angle suddenly steepens to over 70 degrees you are OTB.
  • 33 0
 The chrome is gorgeoous. I used to have a Trans Am frame way back and really liked it. Still have my TR11 and have owned 6-7 Transtions over the years. That said, $2600-$2700 for a steal Taiwan hardtail with Sram NX garbage and department store-level brakes?? Really Transition? What happened to you?
  • 5 0
 That OG TransAm was a fantastic hardtail – and probably one of the more aggressive 29er singlespeed frames on the market when it came out. For a while I would recommend a used TransAm to folks who were looking for an affordable option to dabble in some hardtailing / one-speeding. The tubing seems to hold up well, and with a -1* Works headset and a 130 fork, the geo is pretty solid for New England XC trails. The update really looks like it hits the sweet spot for the modern aggressive hardtail without losing that all-rounder spirit. Always love watching Logan Wetzel meander through the moss, too!
  • 14 0
 Me: I don't need a new bike, nothing much is changing.
Transition: We've got a chrome Trans Am, available as a frame.
My credit card: AAAAAHHHHHHH!!!
  • 2 0
 @Fix-the-Spade: Even with my comment above, I totally agree with you. That chrome is so sexy! lol
  • 3 1
 It's a "cool" brand so you pay a premium for bro-points.
  • 2 0
 @ksilvey10: Transition "used" to be relatively bargain, even with the "cool" factor compared to other brands. Now they charge boutique prices.
  • 2 0
 The frame by itself is not too bad a price. The complete bike is a no. But I only buy frames anymore so it looks sweet to me.
  • 1 0
 @gubbinalia: I'm still riding my 2008 TransAM with 26" wheels. Such a fun bike. This may replace it finally though. Been waiting for a new Transition hardtail
  • 42 6
 Hardtails are like a night out involving Redbull and Vodka. Fun in the moment but I really regret it the next day.
  • 4 1
 Best analogy ever.
  • 1 0
 And yet we continue to make these poor choices over and over again
  • 1 0
 @CheddarJack46: it's been a long time since I've had a red bull vodka
  • 5 0
 Get into shape and it is not so bad. Learn to use your body as suspension and a hardtail is just fine. Takes practice, but worth it.
  • 2 0
 The only time I regretted having a hardtail for a ride, was on a super tech double-black with big compressions. It was not fun.

I had less than 10 rides on this bike (Honzo ESD) and I was still trying to find the limit of the bike. I did find it that day.
  • 2 1
 A few years ago I bought a Santa Cruz chameleon on a Thursday. Put nice wheels on and rode it the next day. It was sold and gone by Monday. Yes, this is a true story. It was fine descending, and fine climbing, but I hated it on twisty flowy trails with lots of roots and rocks.
  • 17 1
 As a Transition fanboy, this hits the spot!
  • 19 2
 Chromag. That is all.
  • 3 0
 Amen to that!
  • 8 2
 There’s room for more than one aggressive steel HT out there. Some folks like straight top tubes.
  • 3 0
 Cotic BFE, another viable option.
  • 5 0
 Thev Transition has got adjustable dropouts, a threaded BB, and ISCG tabs. All features I wish the Chromags had.
  • 1 0
 @adnauseam: I had a Rootdown Ti but got rid of it after 10 months, not because it was bad but the press fit BB was ridiculous, especially on Ti. I knew this going in, gave it a try but for the home mechanic, threaded is better long term. The Surface Ti, of which I owned, was threaded....go figure.
  • 14 1
 Conflicted. Love it. Need a replacement for my Sherpa. Sort of wish it was a touch shorter and steeper. I know, I’m a Luddite heretic. Flame on.
  • 6 0
 Size down and run a 140 fork to add a bit of reach - should work well given the higher static bb height. A medium would have static 465 reach and 64.5 HTA, and will get ~15mm longer and a degree or two steeper at sag.
  • 3 0
 My Transition Scout has a 64-deg. HA and it’s honestly fantastic. Granted I avoid tech climbing, but I think it’s very much in line with what this bike is intended to do (i.e., it has a 150mm fork, not 120mm).
  • 5 0
 Pipedream sirius? Similar pedal giddyup as sherpa, definitely a bit more plow capable even with 120mm
  • 1 0
 Why steeper, at sag and while compressing it will naturally go steeper than a fully suspended anyway.
  • 14 3
 When I see a hardtail without bottle cage mounts on the seat-tube , it makes me sad.
  • 11 2
 more room for dropper posts
  • 3 1
 Yeah, I get that as well. Transition probably didn't want to have any interference with dropper post insertion.
  • 8 1
 The dropper reason doesn't ring true to me... I have a salsa timberjack that has excessive dropper space and a seat tube bottle cage mount..

The epic evo / orbea oiz are fullys that have seat tube mounts... I'm not convinced this is a problem that can't be easily fixed.
  • 5 2
 @hermichut: it's a problem that is harder to fix in steel. Carbon fiber is easy to play around with. Steel isn't quite so easy to mold and conform to unique shapes as easily. Judging from the two carbon bikes you mention, (Epic Evo/Orbea Oiz) you're not the market for a 150mm travel hardtail and those bikes are not comparable at all. People aren't looking to maximize dropper post length on XC race bikes.

Dropper insertion is usually a concern for riders of the Size Small and Medium frames. Not to say that larger riders don't also want deeper insertion depths. I have a 240 dropper on my size large steel hardtail and that wouldn't be possible with a water bottle mount on the seat tube.
  • 8 0
 @Spencermon: Just weld on a longer boss and don't cut the thread through the tube. Simple.
  • 1 0
 @arthur5678: I've had many conversations with their designer (about the dropper post and other stuff) and they have it figured out. They 3D print the bottle cage mount and weld it onto the seat tube. I was going to mention them, but forgot.
  • 8 0
 @TransitionBikeCompany what steel is used? Or is it strictly bygone days of wooing with comparisons of butting, tempering, Reynolds v True Temper, etc? That said, the chrome may be woo enough for this old schooler. Want.
  • 2 0
 The website says it's 4130, but likely from their Asian supplier as opposed to a well known brand.
  • 2 0
 I would also be interested. And, is it recycled steel? There are now so many options, it would be really sad if Transition didn't take this on board.
  • 4 0
 @THFL: Is there steel out there that isn't (partially) recycled? I thought they always dump scrap into the kettle when creating "new" steel as somehow this works better. Or so I was told. Is there even such a thing as "all new materials" steel?
  • 2 0
 @vinay: You don't have to add scrap to a BOF charge, but it's mainly for refractory life, cools the heat down a bit. Economic refractory starts eroding rapidly at about 1850°C
  • 1 0
 @vinay: I don’t know exactly. I was hoping to get more information from the companies like transition itself. If you look through Reynolds tubes, you can see some recycled tubes and some seem to be from new material
  • 6 0
 If they were paying extra for name-brand tubing they’d be promoting it as such and slapping a sticker on the seat tube.
  • 3 0
 True temper doesn't even roll bicycle tubing anymore, sadly. Regardless of brand, most people shopping for a steel hardtail would appreciate some waxing on about butting, heat treatment, and intended flex in the press release at least
  • 13 4
 seat tube angle is way too steep for a hardtail. With sag only in the front, that thing is going to be uncomfortable unless you're on a steep climb.
  • 7 9
 If you aren't on a steep climb you will be out of the saddle most of the time anyway.
  • 3 0
 I don't agree. I have two trail hardtails with one having a 78 seat tube angle and the other a 76.5 angle like this one. Admittedly the 78 one (Stif Squatch) feels too front heavy on flat terrain, but is a treat when winching up long climbs. The other with a 76.5 angle (custom Marino) feels great on long flat tours but is steep enough for tough climbs as well. For me it's the sweet spot on an aggressive hardtail
  • 10 0
 That chrome version is soooooo nice.
  • 1 0
 Get Ti and the finish is permanent.
  • 9 0
 Anybody going to mention the rad VW van wheeling in the video? Wheels leaving the ground and all! Big Grin
  • 1 0
 Yeah, Did you notice the huge dent they put in shooting the video. Right behind the drivers door. It's not there at the beginning of the video.
  • 8 0
 VW Synchro was impressive.
Can’t believe what they are worth nowadays.

So why was the bike in the VW advertisement ?
Lol.
  • 4 0
 Love that tranny is bringing this back and in steel. Don’t really understand why they didn’t use something like a Reynolds’s 853 for the tubing. I’ve got a 2019 Shand Shug (64ha / 75sa / 140mm z2) and it’s incredible. It’s made of 853 for the front triangle and custom dedacciai rear / dropouts and head and shoulders above the other HTs I’ve had, all ‘steel’ of various kinds.
  • 8 0
 That VW was put to the test! Very nice.
  • 6 1
 Looks well sorted! Love the sliding dropouts, simple cable routing, clean look. 10/10 hardtail right there. I'm sure it rides a treat as well!
  • 6 1
 The chrome looks sick! However, is it just me, but full suspension bikes seem to have better value over hardtails when it comes to bang for the buck…?
  • 6 0
 As a former owner of a Hardtail who recently passed to the Dark Side, I totally agree.
It is called "Big Balls Tax".
  • 5 0
 You do save money on rear shock servicing...
  • 4 0
 @onetrykid: and bearing replacement
  • 1 0
 @onetrykid: until you blow up your 2nd rear wheel
  • 1 0
 @therealnobody: 36h, double walled, welded rims.. your ankles blow up first. Lol
  • 3 0
 Would love to know the tire clearance with 27.5. With 29 you can clear 2.5, if you could get 2.8 in 27.5 that'd be ideal. For hardtail this is my preferred rear. Tried both on my hardtail and found the 2.8 is more fun and more comfortable.
  • 6 0
 In the words of Mugatu: Dear God. It's beautiful!
  • 2 0
 Great looking frame, love the sliding dropouts and the geo. Nice work Transition. Depends where you live, but longer suspension, lengthens the wheelbase which can be awesome here for stability on the really tough riding on the coast.
  • 5 0
 hell yeah, i still have my 26 inch 2012 transam. It's my bike I use when my new bikes break!
  • 1 0
 Me too! baby blue. love it so much, bought another one for my wife. least amount of maintenance ever
  • 4 1
 Awesome work on the video and riding! Logan, Myles and Skye you all killed it. Sorry your bus took such a beating in the making, Logan! That edit was pretty Epic, and the riding was downright Classy Wink
  • 2 0
 Nice - looks like a solid $800 frame to build a great bike around.

Are geo figures sagged, or unsagged?

I don't understand the placement of their bottle bosses... why not provide a bit more space in between so (at least sizes M and up) 2 full size bottles can be attached?

Would be great to see a dropout option specific to the 27.5 rear wheel crowd too
  • 5 0
 What percentage of proceeds goes to building rock sliders for Logan's Syncro?! Excellent riding and wheeling bud!
  • 2 0
 Homie has the triple knob!! Free Logan
  • 5 0
 This summer I took a shit exactly where the camera is positioned in the first shot
  • 6 0
 F-it, I'm in, frame purchased Smile
  • 2 0
 Just went to do the same, already sold out of Large frames in Chrome Frown
  • 5 1
 Transition could have done so much better. BB is high, seat tube is too long and too slack. NX spec is a huge let down. Deore or SLX would have been way better.
  • 1 0
 I dont get why Transisiton does the external lower headset cup on thier steel frames. They do the same thing on the PBJ. This is an absolute deal breaker for me. 200 bmx completes come with build in headset cups on steel bike..... i dont get it. Maybe a weight saving thing?
  • 1 0
 It's a style thing. 44ZS/EC headsets are still super common on a lot of hardtails. A lot of people like the straight lines.
  • 1 0
 Thank you Transition! So much yes. The shiny looks the nuts and ticks all the boxes for a steel HT. Big TR fan and the wife wants a new HT. Been looking at Stanton but they don't do the Switch9er for 5'5" person. This is perfect!
  • 1 0
 My first ride on a 29er was on a Transam in around 2014, good fun . I love hardtails and the new Transam looks great but I always gravitate towards full suspension. Experience tells me I need to spend a month on my current hardtail to rekindle the love.
  • 1 0
 Sharp looking bike but I'd rather see it speced with Deore everything if they were going budget. Recently replaced SLX 2-piston brakes for Deore 4-piston and they are awesome. FWIW I had a set of WTB wheels with novatec hubs and the bearings were WAY better than they had any right to be for how little I paid for them.
  • 1 0
 I don't understand the negativity here. Hardtails are super versatile weapons. Easy to ride to the trails, efficient climbers and connectors, capable descenders (on the right trail) and superior on the dirt jumps. IMO if you have the knees', enjoy that rigid steeze.

Plus it looks so darn pretty. I hope the 'limited numbers' last long enough for me to save up for one. Good work @TransitionBikeCompany
  • 3 1
 Is that all we do on this site now? Rage about spec choices? Lame! The bike is gorgeous, the words, riding and terrain inspiring. Thanks for bringing back this legend Transition.
  • 1 1
 This guy gets it. Thanks for the kind words, we hope you enjoy some of these perfect fall conditions while we have them!
  • 1 0
 Nice vid @transitionbikes and pleasing riding Logan.

Comments are funny. I’m a hardtail goon…no issues with the specs. The point for these bikes is to have as much fun as possible with the feedback from the trail hyping up up on the littlest of knobs.

Definitely would consider this well rounded frame for a build to compliment the ever changing HT fleet.
  • 1 0
 Here's some good first hand info on the Transam that I posted in the Canfield N9 comments that I thought would be useful:

"I really think Transition did everything right with their latest Transam. I'm really loving it and I've owned a lot of hardtails: Balance 250, Voodo Bizango, GT Zaskar, Niner MCR 9, Niner AIR 9, Kona Honzo '12 & '13, Canfield EPO, Kona Honzo 2016, RSD Middle Child, Pipedream Moxie, Pipedream Sirius, and currently on the Transition Transam.

It ticks all the boxes for me. It's versatile with sliding dropouts and a high enough BB to realistically run 140-160mm forks. All the tubes are STRAIGHT, which I love. I'm running a 210 dropper and 140mm Pike currently, but I have a 150mm Lyrik on the way. I think it's fantastic as is, but need to know if it's better as Transition specs it. The BB with 140mm fork is at 12.6". The WB is 1209mm. The HA is 64.5. The medium frame weighs 6.6 without headset or axle.

I honestly can't think of a thing I'd change on the Transam besides more color choices and bottle mounts on the seattube. The frame has a fantastic steel dampened feel yet is still lively, and it pedals fantastic. I feel the compliance mainly in the rear triangle. What really blew me away was how great a technical climber this bike is. Amazing.

Well didn't mean for this to be a Transam review, but I already wrote it, so not going to delete it. This Canfield is okay, but I think at the very least they should have a gussetless and shorter seatube. It just seems outdated. Otherwise, geometry depends on what it's going to be ridden on. I agree the EPO was a fantastic bike, but it was also ugly, haha, and had poor tire clearance."
  • 4 0
 Finally! Who thinks you could run a 27.5 wheel up front?
  • 5 0
 This is what I'm thinking. I have a spare red+chrome 160 27.5 lyrik that would looks tits on that frame
  • 5 0
 I've already done the calculations.
27.5" wheels front and rear with 160mm fork (large)
www.bikecad.ca/1692738753687
  • 3 0
 @jessiemaymorgan may I ask what mount is holding that Can of drink? I really need something similar Big Grin
  • 1 0
 Looks like the Wolf Tooth B-Rad strap. They have a few sizes that accept up to wine bottles.
  • 1 0
 @mtbthe603: thanks
  • 4 0
 Such a great machine... I love the VW T3
  • 4 0
 Very nice, but it's no Cotic!
  • 3 2
 Read the comments section and see who's excited. Chances are British steel frames aren't as easy to get hold of over there compared to what Chromag and Transition have on offer. Seems fair to me. I was happy to get hold of my British steel hardtail just before Brexit but now that that one is in effect, I definitely do understand that some local products really matters to the North Americans.
  • 4 0
 That’s what it’s all about. Nice one, Logan!
  • 4 0
 Released on 4th annual International Single Speed Day... nice!
  • 4 0
 Transition TransAM with Transmission woulda been so much more fun to say
  • 1 0
 And a Fox transfer.
  • 1 0
 Well, looks like I found a hanger for a majority of the parts of the 2019 Patrol that I had for sale on the PB Buy/Sell. Will just use existing spare parts stock and will have a sweet Mx HT!
  • 1 0
 Wish that more bike companies would use those bolt on cable guides on top of the downtube (like the reeb SST). Imagine how much sexier this would be without those cables under the top tube.
  • 4 0
 I had a hardtail in the 90s.
  • 3 2
 Commenters who constantly gripe about how modern bikes are too expensive, complicated, and prone to forced obsolescence are out in force in this post asking why anyone would buy a hardtail.
  • 2 0
 The transition dudes must have seen me riding galbi on my chrome frame chromed parts canfield nimble 9 and got some ideas… Wink
  • 1 1
 didn't read all the chatter here, but I can say that the Canfield Nimble has been a good bike for the $. purchased just before the pandemic price raising. have left my F/S on the hook for the last month to get in touch wit muh rootz. Lovin' it!

spank hubs on 30mm rims
MRP ribbon air
GX
carbon bar
TRP slate brakes

was less than $3K then.
  • 1 0
 特别喜欢这款硬尾山地车!尤其是蓝色涂装的,车架结构既看着整洁、结实,又好看,遗憾的事在中国没有销售,太可惜了,如果有销售的话我肯定会购买。
  • 1 0
 The really interesting spec is the chainline: 52mm or 55mm. What are the benefits of going with a 55mm chainline on a boost 148 (assuming SRAM Transmission is not involved)?
  • 1 0
 Test rode a large at CyclePath PDX, and I’m shocked at how intuitive it felt for a 485 reach for me. Ordered a frame, super stoked
  • 3 1
 Sliding dropouts and steel! This thing is making me think about frame swapping my nimble 9...
  • 2 3
 Nothing stopping you from running a 16" wheel in the front. Just depends on how much you want to change the geo of the bike. Swapping to a 27.5 in the front with no other changes would steepen the head tube and seat tube by about 1 degree. If you go 27.5 front and rear, then the geo stays the same, but your bottom bracket would be about 20mm lower.
  • 1 0
 I would totally set this up 27.5 front and rear with a bigger fork.
  • 3 0
 Frame only you say?

GIMME.
  • 4 0
 Nice 1st article Jessie!
  • 1 0
 Jessie-May I mean
  • 2 0
 You can run it as an MX bike, just put a 27.5 wheel on the rear... Like any 29er ever?
  • 2 0
 Whoa Trevor Hall’s music in a riding edit isn’t something I ever expected to see.
  • 2 2
 I was excited to see an option as my next single speed, but then I saw that ridiculously slack head angle. Unless I can fit in an angle adjust headset to steepen that HA, it would be a hard pass.
  • 3 0
 That chrome flame is begging for a screaming chicken decal on the headtube
  • 1 0
 Chrome frame, not flame. Flames would be cool too though.
  • 3 0
 was really hoping this would be a new bottle rocket. looks nice tho
  • 2 0
 Scout = Bottlerocket
  • 2 0
 Video at the bottom of the article? sacrilege, and I love it. Always a treat watching Mr Wetzel, nice job!
  • 3 0
 Why oh why put the dropper cable under the down tube?
  • 2 0
 It's cool not to be cool , then tell folks in your slow-mo you don't care about being cool!! # itsallaboutthejourney
  • 1 0
 Daaaamn, I paid about $1,000 less for essentially the same bike 10 years ago...I guess that isn't too far off inflation but blows my mind to think about it that way.
  • 3 4
 I don't see the point of this bike when new full suspension bikes are way cheaper and better components due to mass sell off. I understand steel has nice dampening qualities, but do you know what else has better damping? a fs bike with modern suspension.

in my opinion, this is the ultimate dentist bike because it shows that someone can purchase a bike with such horrible deal and be happy with it.
  • 15 0
 I ride a hard tail not only for budgetary and maintenance considerations, but also because I like to be challenged when I ride.

For me, it’s fun to ride at the edge of my skills and ability to keep the bike under control. Modern FS bikes are insanely capable, so riding at 9/10ths on a modern full squish requires going at insane speeds, all but guaranteeing serious injury if (when) I wreck.

With a modern, aggro hardtail I can attack challenging terrain while keeping it under the speed of light. I don’t go as fast as a talented rider on a FS, but I still have fun.

It’s the same principle that leads me to the conclusion that I’d rather own a Miata than a Lamborghini: “It’s better to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow.”
  • 4 0
 Its fun to have options. I have a 170mm full suspension bike but probably 80% of the time I ride my 150mm Norco Torrent steel hardtail (same geo as the transition). Unless trails are super chunky, hardtails are just a blast.
  • 1 2
 @sfarnum: why not lock the rear suspension then and challenge yourself? transam is 33 pounds and $2600. you can have a FS bike for that specification. Lock out the suspension of a ripley af and it will feel lik a transam at about the same price and more versitility.
  • 1 0
 I’d think most will build this from the frame up. Far more economical. Less maintenance. Lots of fun. The only difficult thing about riding a hardtail these days is that the trails that were fun on a hardtail a few years ago are now riddled with braking bomb holes because the Enduro-bros need to ride them at mach-chicken on 170mm bikes.
  • 1 0
 I mean, the build isn't great, but the frame is the exact same price as the original version way back when I bought one in 2008 so as a frame build up I'm excited to finally replace my old TransAM. Steel hardtails are just fun. I'll always have one in my quiver. This will be my winter project.
  • 1 0
 Very, very (like basically the same) similar geometry to a rootdown but with adjustable chainstay length, should ride amazing.
  • 3 0
 Trusty old volksvangen, what kind of steel did they use for this frame ?
  • 2 0
 I don't understand why the high bottom bracket, an hardtail sags only at front, you could get away with a lot lower BB...
  • 1 0
 Can you even get 2 full-sized water bottles in there? All Hardtails need to be able to carry 3 waterbottles on the frame IMNSHO.
  • 1 0
 Come on... no mention of frame weight??
Also, "chromoly steel" doesn't tell us much - what grade is it, is it butted etc.
Full specs please.
  • 1 0
 6,7lbs/3,04kg size M
  • 1 0
 WTB i30 wheels need to die Its like they used melted butter to manufacture them
  • 1 0
 It would have been a much better build with Deore drivetrain/brakes and a set of Stan Flows for around the same price.
  • 2 1
 priced at $1700 would kill it...as it stands good luck with that mockup and component list...
  • 2 0
 $1700 is what I spent building up my original TransAm back in 2008.
  • 1 0
 Can someone design dropouts that will allow use of shimano alfine hubs? Would be a killer mud/winter setup.
  • 1 0
 These are Paragon dropouts, so you can get their insert for 10mm bolt-style QR: www.paragonmachineworks.com/hangers-inserts/10-mm-right-side-insert-for-sliding-dropout-no-hanger-choose-color.html

Then you'd need to figure out how to make a 135 shim into 141, which would be easy with a 6-bolt Alfine hub but it looks like they only make them in CL.
  • 1 1
 posing a query to any welders out there, can a steel frame be "rebuilt" into a different frame? i.e. take a 27.5 frame and make it a very similar 29er? asking for a friend Big Grin
  • 4 0
 but why? Just give Marino the geo table and for 500 $ they'll make that happen (Don't think they do chrome though)
  • 1 0
 Very nice. If my spine was younger I'd be all over one of these shiny toys.
  • 2 0
 I bet this Trans Am rides like a bandit!
  • 3 0
 She’s a beaut Clark!
  • 2 0
 Dont forget, aluminium(dropper) bonds with steel(seat tube)
  • 2 0
 Over time, I bit of grease and a loosen once a month solves that.
  • 3 0
 I pulled the post out of my 2020 Chromag for the first time a few months ago, and it’s completely spotless. On the steel Kona though, I’m just hoping the rust is making a protective barrier
  • 2 0
 @watchtower: learnt this the hard way, living right by the coast does'nt help either.
  • 1 0
 depends on the bike if it's a hardtail, not the rider and a few of them are and they rule!
  • 1 0
 Pinkbike hardtail panzies.. mlore brands coming out with hardtails because other brands are.
  • 1 0
 Impressive…. I wonder if he lost any fillings from he’s mouth in the making of this video?
  • 1 0
 Sweet video, and the bike (well, the frame; polished in particular) looks a worthy successor to the original Trans Am.
  • 2 0
 That's some ompressive wheel lift on the kombi!
  • 1 0
 I cried a bit when he put that dent into the side of it, though....
  • 1 0
 for that money you can buy my barely used Trek Fuel 7 Gen5 and have a much more capable bike
  • 2 0
 Looks great.
  • 1 0
 I dont want it, I NEED it, for the sole reason of being cool.
  • 1 0
 Seriously Digging this bike! Looks so nice!
  • 2 0
 Make me want bike
  • 1 0
 If this was available in XXL, it would be my next bike. C'mon Transition.
  • 1 0
 Yay Hardtail future wahoooo
  • 1 0
 Disappointed its not a bottlerocket
  • 1 0
 Disappointed too. It is a TransAm but it isn't black with a set or red lights aligned on the headtube performing an EMDR show. The VW van is nice but really it should roll from the back of a truck, not a van. That's the A-Team, you fool!
  • 1 0
 Scout = Bottlerocket
  • 1 1
 I like this waaayyyy more than I should as i'm saving for a wreckoning. Gonna have to cop one of these as well.
  • 1 0
 That chrome frame is making me moist
  • 2 3
 Not sure if we needed another steel hardtail option. Personally if I was in the market I'd be looking at a Bird Forge in metallic blue

www.bird.bike/forge
  • 1 0
 Hip bag should be under the jacket, kei, bai
  • 2 0
 chrome or go home
  • 1 0
 Take it easy on the ol’ girl
  • 1 0
 That trail looks so fun to ride.
  • 1 0
 My back hurts after watching that video ... is that a sign?
  • 1 0
 Almost as cool as my Nimble 9. Canfield!
  • 1 0
 I want it.
  • 1 0
 dude!!!!
  • 1 1
 Trans and hard: im excited!
  • 1 0
 TAKE MY FOOOKING MONEY
  • 1 0
 Looks like an old Huffy.
  • 1 0
 I Love it
  • 1 0
 Next, the Klunker! Smile
  • 1 0
 Dope bicycle.
  • 1 2
 Can’t help but think it would look better if the seat stays and top tube were perfectly inline.
  • 1 0
 Blue
  • 1 0
 Nah; but yeah - nah.
  • 1 4
 I've had the Norco version of this for a number of years now. And I gotta say. 150mm hardtails are stupid.
  • 1 0
 stupid fun? Mine is a 160mm and while yes I think it's a little ridiculous it is a good time.
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