I’ve just ordered one. I think the Banshee Prime I was looking at was quoted at about the same frame weight. On the test ride I felt the weight on some climbs but otherwise not an issue. Most non carbon trail bikes seem to be north of 30 lbs.

What about a Whyte sc120? Seems to get decent reviews and a reasonable amount of bike for the money.

Banshee’s are on my not so short list. A quick question about the lower shock link cage. Is it a bit of a mud trap? I’ve never seen the v3’s up close to check.

I’m a little late in replying but a Banshee Prime is also on my list.

Thanks for all the replies. Going to give it a go.

I’ve no idea to be honest. I’d not considered the brand until seeing a few videos and the STW article. I forgot when the warranty thread was made.

I’m looking for the same sort of bike as you op. I’ve narrowed it down to a alloy tallboy 4 or a Whyte s120 (though you are not interested in that one). Or a Stage 5 as a outside choice. As Orange seem to have dropped the fours.

It would be going on a Cotic Flaremax. Just wondered if it was worth a try as J tech have them on offer.

I tested a Flaremax as well on Sunday. While I did initially notice the weight as the ride progressed it was not much of a issue, especially once I stopped trying to ride up hills like I do on my hardtail. The geometry seemed to work well for me. I’m pretty much sold on it

I was going to ask about tyre combo’s a while ago and i never got round to it. Apart from Ron/Ralph, I though about a Vittoria Barzo/Mezcal mix. As they are about £12 cheaper for the pair on Mantel than Ron/Ralphs I thought they could be worth a try.

Yep that was a slog. Even with the improved clearance on my single speed the rear wheel was still an issue. I spent most of the last 2 climbs of the lap pulling mud out so it would rotate.

Went to put on some mud tires on my bike for tomorrows MSG race and realized I no longer have them Doh! Tempted to take the single speed now, as I do have some mud tires for it.

I’m having a go at the MSG events this year. Probably the Gorrick 100 as well, I enjoyed it last year.

Switchback also has interchangeable dropouts which I guess would add a bit to the cost.

Looks good. I’d also be interested to hear your opinions on the fork.

I use Andel cogs from Velosolo on my mountain bike. They seem to last well and have a wide base.

Something like this?
Rose bikes

I was at the first round of the Winter series and I had not gotten round to changing my (29er)x king front and Race king rear. Apart from about 4 places around the lap they coped well in the conditions. If you wanted more grip how about Mountain king 2 front and x king rear?

I’ve used them a couple of times with no complaints.

I have a pair on my SS and I think they are a pretty decent tyre.

Try Specialized shoes they always seem to fit me and I have reasonably wide feet.

Thanks for the replies don’t get me wrong this is not a “OMG they took more than 5 seconds to reply they suck” type post. I asked them about the X-12 QH so maybe they are waiting for answers themselves. I can wait I just did not want to keep sending them emails if they are busy etc.

Merlin have them, In all black.

Thanks for the replies. I’m deciding between the Stanton Sherpa (when it comes out) and a Trans AM 29.

I like it, it’s the first time in years I’ve actually wanted a full suss bike.

Robust

If you have got on well with the Fuel but need more. What about the Remedy?

Speedplay user here, Had them a few years and get on well with them.

My LB rims were in customs for about a week before the letter was sent to me.

Stake land is worth a look.

Merlin stock it as well.

Gonna give 28h a go meself…. 80kg without gear. Was fine for 26″ lb rims!

Good to know thanks.

Sorry slight hijack, I’m looking at getting the wider 29er rims for my xc bike. I’m planning on using revolution spokes would a 28h build be stiff enough for a 75 kg rider?

The Ti version does look really nice. Sorry but this is possibly a dumb question but is the seat tube sealed at the bottom? Just curious. Tempted to wait for the ceramic version to come in Large.

Entered Solo. Singlespeed on standby depending on the weather. 🙂

2011 Kona Explosif and a 2012 King Kahuna 29er both fit me well.

Steed, It annoys me a lot.

I was looking at their bikes a few years ago. I sent a email asking a few questions and got a very quick reply. Though in the end I just did not fancy being a paying test rider. Though I am keeping them in mind for the future.

I’d want free delivery for that to be honest.

I had considered getting a legion last year. Contacted them with a question and got a prompt and polite answer. Ended up getting a Soda as I just knew to little about Kingdom bikes. Tempted by a £500 foia though.