The 2021 Spot Rocker Review: Best in Class - My Favorite XC/Trail Hardtail to Date

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The Spot Rocker was revamped in late 2020. It retained its belt drive, but gained a new geometry, and a new carbon frame. In this episodeI review it in 29er SS belt drive mode, 27.5+ belt drive ss mode, and 29er geared mode. This bike is incredibly unique and extremely special. See for yourself why I think this is one of the best trail bikes on the market today. I am not affiliated with Spot. I do not make any money if you purchase one, I just think they build a fantastic bike. I wish I still had this in my fleet, because it's one of my all-time favorite hardtails.
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#SPOT #singlespeed #beltdrive
0:00 Intro
0:24 29er SS Ride
5:20 29er SS Mid-ride thoughts
9:03 29er SS Ride pt2
14:15 29er SS Thoughts
16:40 27.5+ SS Ride
27:13 Wide 29er Wheel Swap
28:57 Belt Drive Thoughts
32:05 29 Geared Seupt
38:46 Final Thoughts

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Опубликовано:

7 авг 2024

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Комментарии : 297

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

There are a lot of people out there who think I only like slack bikes. Not true; it's just rare to find an exciting bike with a traditional head angle, but they're out there. This bike is one of them. The bar has been raised. This is the new high-water mark for hardtail trail bikes in my opinion. This one took a LOT of time to film and edit. I realize it's a long video, but if I were in the market I would watch every second of every review I could find about this bike. Yes, I repeat myself a few times in this review, but I see a lot of value in capturing the raw emotions as I'm riding, rather than scripting a perfect narrated review. If I had the budget for this bike, it would get ridden more than any other bike I own. For the record, I have zero affiliation with Spot. I don't make money when you buy one, and I don't benefit from giving them a favorable review. How would you order yours?

@harveyjoneswoodsman5956 3 года назад

Probably the same as you with the exception of also having the gears as well

@harveyjoneswoodsman5956 3 года назад

I've always been interested in belt drive especially for a ss

@Monkeyrobb 3 года назад

I just got mine. 4 star build with 27.5 wheels. Have a set of 29” wheels that I had for my steel rocker (which I sold to buy the new one). Currently in Alaska so I won’t be able to ride it for a while, but moving to AZ this fall. Maybe we’ll cross trails sometime-I’ll be the other guy on a single speed. Great review, as usual!

@orrphism 3 года назад

Thanks so much for taking the time and effort to make this awesome review. I really enjoyed your bike consultation service through Patreon and will be recommending it to others. I bought the 5-star geared build as it was the only build in stock and I want to be able to ride while the weather is good where I live. Also ordered the Nukeproof Horizon V2 wheels w/ the quiet pawl upgrade and Specialized Eliminator grid 2.3 and Ground Control grid 2.3 tires per your recommendation. My gf is beyond excited for this bike. Thanks again!

@forestray183 3 года назад

Great review! I got mine with the 29 wheels and belt drive about two months ago to use as SS training/race bike. I share your enthusiasm for it - it's way more fun than it should be! So far I've changed the crankset to 170mm and I swapped out the seat for the same kind of seat I run on all my bikes. I agree with your final thoughts - if I were to order it again, I would definitely buy the geared version instead and change it to SS after the fact. Oddly the geared version is spec'd with 170mm cranks, while the SS comes with the 175mm cranks, so it would have saved me the crank swap in addition to coming with a drivetrain to use when not running SS. Unfortunately the bike nerd in me couldn't resist the shiny weirdness of the belt drive. One thing about the belt worth mentioning is that it is brilliant in the wet muddy winter conditions here in the PNW (quiet, smooth, doesn't get gummed up or collect gunk), and it is really easy to clean after a ride.

@davidhargrave8611 3 года назад

I just have to come back and say this review was on the mark! I swapped my Dv9 for this frame and I'm blown away by how fun and capable this bike is. It corners like nobody's business and is so fast and stiff while pedalling - yet, nice and supple for taking out some of the chatter. I'm running it with a 130mm Pike (52 rake), traditional SS (32x18), with 29x2.6 F (Rekon) & R (Ikon) on Ibis S35 wheels. The tires fit fine no matter the dropout position. I actually have the dropouts back a bit to get proper tension and the bike is still just incredibly nimble, yet stable. The only issue I've had is that I had to run a 160mm rotor on the back because the shape of the 4piston SLX brakes makes it so the caliper will contact the frame if not in the forward most dropout position. Amazing bike!

@chrisspargen7081 3 года назад

Hi David, 52 or 42mm rake? I'm guessing typo :) want to make sure before I install my Pike 130 Ultimate with 42mm rake!

@nathanwhitmire3888 2 года назад

Great to hear the 2.6 will fit on i35 in all dropout positions! I've just came back to this review as I've had this bike brought to my attention. By the end of the video I was thinking to myself, man if this bike would just fit a 2.6 on i35............

@shaunroach7829 3 года назад

What a review 🤘🤘🤘. Steve in the last couple reviews you have really showed us that Aluminum, Steel and Carbon frames really depend on how they are designed and not just frame material for the ultimate ride!!! Great job distinguishing the differences between the belt or chain drive!!! Fantastic review as always, 👏 great job!!!

@sixate 3 года назад

What a great review. It was so long I couldn't watch it all on my lunch break! I love that the bike is so great without being so progressive and modern. Although, I could never run SS cause I'm the size of an NBA power forward so I need 12 gears. Sounds like a bike you need to buy. If I loved a bike that much there's no way I could send it back. And please keep these amazing reviews coming. I actually loved this long one. It showed so many trails of different variety. I'm soooo jealous. I just told my wife we need to vacation down there once my kid is a few years older so I can take him riding.

@adamrossi7010 3 года назад

Steve, thanks for an amazing review on an amazing bike!! Your passion shows. Keep up the great work.

@jalbrecht55 3 года назад

Thanks for making a long enough video to effectively cover all the variations you tested. Really good stuff.

@byrrenyates3015 3 года назад

Thank you for the excellent review!...confirms I made the right decision getting the Rocker SS 29er. For the flowy single track I ride here in NorCal, blues and greens, it’s the perfect dream bike. Worth every penny for the smiles it gives me every time I ride. Only change I had to make was swapping for wider 2.35 tires.

@johngray2875 3 года назад

Thanks for this review Steve. The Spot Rocker looks like a really great bike, and they can ship me one in a matter of weeks. I ordered one last night.

@charlessimmons1289 3 года назад

Awesome review. I suspected this is the one to rule them all. Thank you for your hard work.

@crystaline109 3 года назад

i've been looking forward to this review since i first saw you picked it up.

@zed9zed 2 года назад

Speaking of trail chatter, your ability to communicate effectively while also riding the trail is impressive.

@williamkinzel3635 3 года назад

Love this! Nice work Steve. "lose the kashima... who cares" yes!

@pauls3616 3 года назад

Great review, more in depth and complete than any other source available. It looks like a fun ride and a bike that you would come home from work, fill up a water bottle and just go. Thank you Steve.

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

Exactly! There's beauty in the simplicity. And they got the perfect balance of 2 water bottles, straight seat tube, long dropper, killer ride feel, while staying light. That's a really tough combo for a lot of companies.

@gzahnd 3 года назад

I rode this bike today at Spot in Golden, and started laughing at your initial articulations of the ride characteristics because they were so similar to what I experienced. Well done, and highly accurate.

@yamahschector Год назад

Did you buy one?

@gzahnd Год назад

@@yamahschector yep, a year ago! Still love it.

@yamahschector Год назад

@@gzahnd they were closed the day I was free. I still need to go try one out

@yamahschector Год назад

So many places in Golden to go have fun on a bike and try them out it’s great.

@mattforst6591 3 года назад

Awesome review, thanks! I am very interested in this bike geared with 29 x 2.35 tires for Southern Wisconsin trails. Looks like I have a big decision to make this spring/summer (ARC, Nimble 9, etc.).

@danfrst1 3 года назад

I met Wayne the other day at a local trailhead on my steel rocker! He was the nicest guy and was so stoked to see another Spot owner! Dude rips for 71!

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

Wayne is a SUPER nice dude.

@bsmithhammer 3 года назад

First ride on my new Rocker today. I'm seriously impressed. Climbs like a dream and I couldn't believe how hard I was able to push it on the descents, once I got the feel for what it's capable of. If your full sus bike is so plush that it's making your trails boring, get a Rocker, re-learn how to pick a line, and hang on.

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

It's such a special bike. Just wait till you've had 4 or 5 rides on it and you really get to know it. It's one of the most exciting bikes I've ever ridden. Glad you're loving yours.

@danielesavi1969 3 года назад

Very good content. You deserve more subscribers.

@CX_ChrisChow 3 года назад

so this is the basically the crocodile Dundee knife of hardtails ... sweet!

@marcusgreco 3 года назад

“Belts are lighter than chains” XC Mountain Bikers: I’ll Take YoUr EnTiRe sToCk

@wesleywermuth9545 3 года назад

Steve, thanks to you I own a Spot mayhem and now just got my new Spot Rocker (geared) a few weeks ago. I absolutely love the new Rocker! It took me a ride or two to get used to it because it is so light. It’s so fun to ride. Hoping to meet up with you at one of your rides in the future. Keep up the great work! I would think it would benefit Spot greatly to gift you a Rocker as it would be a great advertisement for them for a ROI.

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

I like the way you think. :) I wouldn't turn down a rocker...

@Onecogmike 3 года назад

I believe you have convinced me on what bike to get to put my Carbon 30’s 27.5+ with Chris kings wheelset that’s been hanging in my garage for two years on. Singlespeed of course.

@winnguyen443 3 года назад

Glad I found your fantastic channel! I’m in the market , if bike companies will ever stock bikes again.

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

I'm glad you found it too.

@danparish1344 Год назад

Can’t wait for mine to come in. Ordered it last week.

@npalmi88 2 года назад

I fell in love with this bike from your review, ordered one, have yet to ride it.

@hardtailparty 2 года назад

Time to ride that bad boy!

@mikestivers8302 2 года назад

Steve your vid on DB's page for the Ryve 115 is what got me going w/ spot brand. btw, the Ryve is the best DC/XC bike i've been on so far.. so thanks for that. this bike looks sick too!

@georgeirvingnormaniii3291 3 года назад

Spot luck out with you-another great review *****

@bigbigbigbadbill 3 года назад

Looks so good!

@Onecogmike 3 года назад

Who gave a thumbs down. One of Steves’s best bike reviews ever. He convinced me to buy one. This will be my 4th bike buy based on his reviews; Timberjack as a 27.5+ singlespeed, Ti RSD Middlechild as a 29 singlespeed, Honzo ESD For pure geared awesomeness.

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

I would apologize, but all of those are awesome bikes!

@ImAnEmergency Год назад

5’ 6” checking in - you’ve got me rethinking which size to eventually get when I’m good enough to justify it!

@randyhou8522 3 года назад

Great review. I wonder if a beefier 2.4" 29 tire would be the sweet spot to make it an all-rounder?

@justincooper7015 3 года назад

That was awesome, now I want one!

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

You and me both!

@MrNickHanson 3 года назад

Dang, good review.

@chriskimber7179 3 года назад

Exciting bike! I haven't actually coveted a bike since 2008 when I picked up my custom welded 'Peyto'. This Spot has me thinking... maybe it's time to update my wheel size, head tube diameter and geometry to see how much better the humble hardtail has become. Thanks for getting me stoked!

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

There are still a lot of awful hardtails out there, but the good ones have come a LONG way. It's amazing what the best jardtaols rode like now.

@chriskimber7179 3 года назад

How rowdy can this rig get on 27.5+, or even a Mullet build with 140mm fork?

@GrandpaGains 3 года назад

This will go nicely with my 2019 Spot Mayhem130 you talked me into back in the winter of 2018. My wife is going to hate you Steve.. thanks for confirming what I'd would expect from Spot..

@tillybronte Год назад

I just got my bike (while visiting Ocala Florida) and really love it on the flowy trails at Santos. Super fast! I must admit, that I find getting the front end up for manuals and wheelies is much harder than with my Rocky Thunderbolt- better get out and work on it a bit more as you have no troubles with that in this review. Thanks very much,

@hardtailparty Год назад

It takes some getting used to. Try the chainstay in the shortest position and a riser bar. You have to lift the wheel higher off the ground than most for manuals. That's the long chainstay

@tazmystical 3 года назад

Your guess about the cogs sizes needing to be larger for belt drive is spot on. The belt design limits how small the rear cog can get at 19t. But then the available belt length, front cog sizes ,and the chain stay lengths make the possible cog/belt combos limited per bike.

@certainperfectratio 3 года назад

Spot on. Nice

@justinofboulder 3 года назад

Had a Spot Longboard (belt drive SS) back in 2008 and loved it! When I signed up for Leadville, I decided it might be wise to get on a geared bike so I chose to sell it. Sure do miss it, and am tempted....but am thinking I would probably have more fun on the geared set up. Thanks so much for the video!

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

I think this is the perfect leadville hardtail. If i were invited to race, it'd be on one of these.

@justinofboulder 3 года назад

@@hardtailparty thanks for the reply! I ended up with a day off yesterday and was able to book a demo on the geared Rocker. What an amazing ride! Truly the most fun I have ever had on a mountain bike! Having never used a dropper post before, that alone blew me away. When I went to return the demo, I was literally ready to place an order, but after some talking, they really recommended that I ride the ryve first. I am hoping to have some time to do that in a couple of weeks. 🤪

@donmcwha3165 3 года назад

Gidday Steve, Thanks for your honest and informative reviews. Love your style. I'm particularly interested in Carbon XC bikes. I have recently purchased a Canyon Exceed CF SLX 8.0. I don't suppose you could get hold of one of those for a review. Anyway, keep up the great work.

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

I'd love to, but canyon has some of the least inventory on the planet.

@darthjohn0 3 года назад

I just returned my Exceed CF SLX 9 (US-spec). Size M was too big for me (5'10", 33in inseam); Canyon's sizing is very frustrating. Was very sad. The Exceed CF SL 8 is in stock now; I'm considering it but this Spot Rocker review has got me thinking more.

@donmcwha3165 3 года назад

@@darthjohn0 interesting. I’m 5’8” 173cm. They recommend a Sml. But the reach told me I was a Med. Reviews also told me that I was probably a Med so that’s what I ended up with. I have the dropper post at its lowest possible setting and luckily it fits me perfectly. I can’t help but wonder what a Sml would have been like. I’m happy with the Med though.

@darthjohn0 3 года назад

@@keirfarnum6811 I have a 32" inseam and at the lowest height the seat was about 34" from the pedals. I think it had to do with the dropper; I think without it the seat post could go lower.

@piccolo6214 2 года назад

What sort of multi-tool was that at 7:45 ??? Enjoy your videos! Honest reviews and really good advice.

@juancarlospena7089 2 года назад

I thinking about ordering one. Already reached out to them by email. They should at least give you a free frame. Honestly! You seem super passionate and honest. I don’t think it would corrupt what you’re doing. I would have never considered this if it wasn’t that I started following you. Still might hit you on Patreon for advice on size.

@hardtailparty 2 года назад

Spot will have great advice for sizing. I liked this bike so much that i ended up buying one for myself.

@roytal1971 3 года назад

My dream bike!

@marsluna2127 3 года назад

I looked at the geo numbers, regarding why it manuals well, I think the high-ish BB height and decently high stack number

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

I feel like a 50mm bb drop is oretty standard. The tall stack definitely helps.

@danjdavison 3 года назад

I’m turning my Rocky Mountain Suzi Q RSL into a hardtail with 29er plus wheels. I expect it to ride similar to the Spot given it would have similar geo with a Step Cast 34 on it.

@yamahschector Год назад

I never realized how many shops options I had in colorado. I can go check out the spot, a yeti, a commencal and a hand full of other bikes. I found a trek roscoe 9 in my size in stock. A Santa Cruz chameleon in my size. Now need to find a banshee a ragley and an rsd.

@jeremyprovonsil7886 2 года назад

Great review. This bike is pretty interesting. Any future plans to review the Guerilla Gravity Pedalhead?

@hardtailparty 2 года назад

yes

@jimsmart1951 3 года назад

How would you compare this bike to the Niner Sir 9? The Niner is a little steeper, but it seemed you had a great time on that one as well.

@JoshTaylor 2 года назад

Had to watch this video after the reading some of the comments in the Stanton Sherpa ti vs steel video. This looks awesome but really don't like the price of the frame so if I'm swapping from my Kona Big Honzo DL, perhaps the Sherpa in Reynolds steel is it?

@mpk33 3 года назад

Thanks for the length of this detailed video & all your effort Steve. Wow, what a bike! I wish I had that kind of dosh to afford it & then customize it exactly to my liking. Do you have a Paypal so I can buy you & Tess a coffee to say a small thanks for all your great videos I've watched by youse in the year or so?

@lmrod01 3 года назад

Great review! Your review sounds very much how I currently feel about my 2016 Canfield EPO. I feel like it is the perfect balance between a CX rig and a rowdy trail bike. Fast and snappy, but planted and stable. I currently ride it with Minion 2.5 upfront and an Aggressor 2.3 on back, makes for a bit heavier ride, but in the lose kitty litter terrain of the pikes peak region, it feels perfect. Wondering if you ever had a chance to ride an EPO and what are your thoughts in comparison. I have been thinking of getting the Spot, but I just love my EPO so much is a hard decision. Keep up the great work!

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

Unfortunately i haven't ridden a 2016 epo before.

@alanclarke4965 2 года назад

@@hardtailparty I have an EPO as well, which makes watching your channel quite relaxing since I know I'm not looking for a new hardtail!

@renegarza990 3 года назад

Would love to see a review on a Scott scale 940 carbon fiber frame.

@davidhargrave8611 3 года назад

Such a great review! I really appreciate the time you took to cover the different variations. I know you found the Dv9 to be pretty fast and responsive as well. Frame weights are pretty close. How does is stack up to the Spot?

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

spot is more compliant.

@cosmic2914 2 года назад

Beautiful bike with drive lovely. You can fit rohloff on this right? I love belt drive using commuter belt drive its perfect l.

@noahmills2884 3 года назад

Another one for the list

@halnogaies1256 Год назад

Hey, i found it interesting that you talked about a bike being too light. What are the consequences of a bike being too light? My fuse comes in at 25.4 lbs and I wonder if that is too light.

@rolyap8993 3 года назад

Great insight here as always! It seems to me there is a trend of people over-tiring their bikes (ie. running enduro/downhill treads on a trail bike) that are only useful on a tiny portion of the features they actually ride frequently, and the rest of the time are just eating away your speed/flow. I think something light like a Dissector/Rekon F/R combo is sufficient in most trail bike scenarios. What do you guys think?

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

Depends on where you live. The dissector was actually designed as a dh tire. These eliminators I'm running up front are a dh tire too. Tires are super personal, but a grippy, aggressive tire can add tons of confidence on an otherwise sketchy bike.

@datalaforge 8 месяцев назад

I took a demo SS Rocker on a trail I ride a lot here in the Denver area and answered a phone call while on the climb and still PRd nearly every segment I rode while chatting with my friend. I really want one of these. I'd set it up SS, with an 2.3 Aggressor in back and a 2.4 DHRii in the front, big brakes and rotors, because, Colorado, and I'd probably put a chain on it to get the ratio I like. So, mine would be chonky compared to your setup but It would still be a couple of pounds lighter than my current setup.

@hardtailparty 8 месяцев назад

It's a really special bike. Nothing climbs quite like it.

@Rocky_Bikeboa 3 года назад

Cool! How does it compare to the Canfield Nimble9?

@scottmclain740 3 года назад

The video just looks like you were flying!

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

This bike is so fast.

@joshsteele2511 8 месяцев назад

Almost identical geo to a Yeti Arc. Sweet bike

@tazmystical 3 года назад

I love my Rocker. Have a 120 SID Ultimate that I run 29x2.35 for XC races, then I swap on a 130 Pike Ultimate and some Berd wheels with 27.5x2.8 for fun all day SS adventures. I have a Ryve and Mayhem on the wall and I still grab the Rocker more days lol.

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

Sounds like a killer setup. I've been digging my Atomik/berd wheels lately. I wanted to run them on this bike for some testing, but I ran out of time.

@mattforst6591 3 года назад

That does it I am sold on this bike.

@nickgiordano1628 3 года назад

John, are you running a lockout on the SID? I'm thinking of the same frame/fork pairing. Coming from a rigid SS, I'm considering the lockout. Needed, or is it plenty efficient without?

@djsaintb 2 года назад

@John - How close is the Ryve to the Rocker? It’s mostly blues and greens in the Philly area, so hardtail has filled-the-bill to date. But wondering if the 115mm Ryve has enough of that hardtail feel in its short travel to keep it peppy and responsive…

@kimrice394 2 года назад

Bought a frame. Chain drop due to flex is a problem. Probably why the belt drive is standard. Not the first SS frame I’ve owned to do this. My Ritchey P29 did the same. Supple for sure. Handles tech wonderfully, a true departure from the XC geo I’ve been on for years. It’s far from the fastest accelerating. I’ve owned S work level bikes so my bar is set high. I just came off a Soma B side. The Soma will eat this bikes’(Spot) lunch on Midwest flow. The Spot will climb and tech right past the Soma. I’m not bummed, I bought the Spot for the ride quality and confidence on tech. The geo is definitely amazing! Haven’t put 27.5 on it yet, maybe they will not have the leverage to flex the stays enough to drop a chain. Yes, a tensioner will fix it but… meh. Just telling my experience.

@zombywoof9914 3 года назад

I wanted one of these before seeing the review, now I really want one. If I could just have one more bike...

@sdilizio 3 года назад

Any chance of getting a review of the Niner Air 9 RDO?

@bdubs1967 3 года назад

I find this interesting vs. the Yeti ARC you rode. The HT angle is the same and the ST angle is ½ a degree slacker on the Spot. The spot has a shorter stack and longer reach. Just trying to rationalize the difference.

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

On paper they may look similar, but they couldn't feel more different on the trail.

@bdubs1967 3 года назад

@@hardtailparty So, why do you think that is?

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

Carbon layup, cs length, reach length, sta, and because I don't believe most geo charts are very accurate. It may only look like a degree or two here or there, but it all adds up.

@user-lc2mu9jk2b 3 года назад

Would you take it for bikepacking?

@bxpais 2 года назад

Great review. I am thinking of the rocker 29 for bikepacking but I can't find any reviews that tend to that. Do you feel it would be a worthy machine for that?

@hardtailparty 2 года назад

I usually prefer metal bikes for bikepacking, but apart from that it'd be great.

@nickgiordano1628 3 года назад

Excellent review! I've been waiting for this one. Do you think the rear could clear a 2.4/2.4WT on an i30 rim?

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

Absokutely. You could go up to a 29x3.0 up front i believe. That's a limit of the fork, not the frame. I'll bet you could go even wider than a 2.4 in the rear. The guys at spot could tell you for certain.

@tl9235 2 года назад

My husband just put 2.4 on his, the stock tires had no grab, too gravel/XC

@enzol5628 3 года назад

love to see traditional bikes!

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

Sadly, so many of them are boring these days and they often have sketchy handling. Not the case with the Rocker though!

@enzol5628 3 года назад

@@hardtailparty I'm a huge fan of being underbiked rather than overbiked. well done spot!

@jhuanger 3 года назад

man that 27.5+ looks so much fun! would do great here in socal. were your running any inserts in the 27.5+? what kind of tire pressure were you running?

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

Zero inserts. I believed i was around 14psi.

@stevenpowers9609 3 года назад

I was between the Rocker and Esker Japhy when they were both getting ready to hit the market a few months ago. I ended up with the Japhy and absolutely love it, but you're making me wonder if I made the right choice lol

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

Ah dang, you should have signed up for my consultation service. I have a japhy in for review right now and i can compare the two. They're very different.

@nickgiordano1628 3 года назад

@@hardtailparty Japhy vs. Sendero vs. Rocker?

@DAMN55117 3 года назад

YES. This would be a perfect complement to my 5010 for MN. Is it too fragile to bike pack, say the CO trail?

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

I don't love strapping bags to carbon frames. It doesn't take much to rub through the carbon and weaken the frame. My wife bikepacks with her carbon dv9 all the time, but she always tapes it up with electrical tape before heading out.

@berndkraemer2832 3 года назад

Thanks Steve for this great and very detailed review - I was waiting for this to drop. From the few weeks and about 500 km that I have put on mine, I can say that you are spot on. That thing climbs like no other (geared) and you come in much too fast on a lot of DHs, like you said. It is so much fun to ride and full days on this bike are very comfortable. My Nomad is collecting dust in the garage right now 😂😂. In terms of brakes, I also agree that they are on the weak side (I have the TLMs and don't know if that means different calipers). I had Spot put on a 180 mm on the rear but I think it is the SRAM brake itself - XTs would certainly much better in terms of braking power. My size L has 170 mm cranks on and that just perfect. I am running 29er carbon rims (Lightbicycle AM930) at 30 mm wide and have Conti Cross and Race Kings on, which is not grippy enough for the dust here in NorCal. Will definitely try something beefier on the front as you suggest. Thanks again for helping me choose this fun bike!!!

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

My pleasure! It's great to hear that you're loving it so much. It just made me smile every time I rode it. It's a very exciting ride.

@mad-lex 11 месяцев назад

Hey :) ! Thanks for your insights on the bike. I was wondering if you can safely perform jumps on it ? I asked Spot about the ASTM rating and it's 3 which means jumps under 61cm. So I guess going too hard on it would probably break the frame ? thanks ! Alex

@andreuosika 3 года назад

Great review - sorry if I missed it, where do you ride?

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

Sedona, az

@WiewiorPLater1 3 года назад

Hi, can anyone suggest me a xc/trail 130mm steel frame thats light and supple?

@Cesium67 3 года назад

Nice bike. I like the geo on this one. Do they sell as frame only?

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

Yes

@jeffcomstock5884 2 года назад

What size did you ride? I'm between a Med and large at 5'9.5"

@rich7239 3 года назад

Love the review, do you think using a cane creek Angleset and bringing it to a 65.5 degree head tube would make it more capable on the downhill. I ride a lot of chunky downhill and just curious if that would take away from the intended bike feel.

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

I think it's the wrong bike for the application if you're wanting it slacker.

@rich7239 3 года назад

@@hardtailparty thank you!

@BlakeHerrmann 3 года назад

Would love to see a review on the Specialized Epic Hardtail.

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

I've ridden one, but never reviewed it. Maybe in the future.

@ulydoingthings 3 года назад

@@hardtailparty im in the market for a more of a Xc bike. The Specialized Epic is on my radar so I'm glad to see this review 🙌 Please review the Epic if you can.

@BlakeHerrmann 3 года назад

Thanks!

@renewrestoreexteriorcleani5273 2 года назад

I am seriously considering picking one of these up but after re watching this video I have concerns or questions really. You said it is almost too lite, would a steel or aluminum frame be better for more trail options? Would either of the other frame materials have negative effects on the playful manner of the bike? What is the best frame material?

@hardtailparty 2 года назад

It all depends. This is the kind of stuff I cover on my bike consultation service. I'd be happy to help you over there.

@mikecarter6758 3 года назад

Steve, what trails did you ride? Going to be in Sedona this month and these look great.

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

There are about 15 different trails on this one. Sedona doesn't have any bad trails. :)

@michaelthoen5129 2 года назад

Have you done a geo check in your shop to see how the true geo is compared to what Spot put on the geo charts? Have you installed a Slack R headset?

@hardtailparty 2 года назад

Not yet and no. I don't feel like i need it any slacker. (Fyi, a slack-r doesn't work on bikes that don't have integrated headsets)

@stevencole7331 3 года назад

2.3 is my favorite 29er tire size front and back . For me it's in that perfect zone of not to heavy but still able to absorb the terrain I ride on . I wonder if this bike would be competitive in an xc race ? You have proven it was up to an endurance challenge

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

I believe it would be extremely competitive in an xc race.

@BlakeHerrmann 3 года назад

Love the Maxxis dhf 2.3 front and Ardent race 2.35 rear on my race hardtails! Raced and ridden on all terrain including Sedona.

@stevencole7331 3 года назад

@@BlakeHerrmann I use the dhr2 front and back . Works well in my high desert location in socal . I experimented with other manufacturers and Maxxis just outperforms the competition on my terrain . The Dhr2 is just a bit faster and not giving up much on grip from what I have seen

@BlakeHerrmann 3 года назад

If you like the dhr2, try the dissector lightweight 2.4 tire! Have those front and rear on my other bike and might be the best tire Maxxis makes all around!

@jeffreychase7623 3 года назад

I’ve got the older steel Rocker and love it. Curious if you’ve ridden the new Mayhem 130 yet. Would like to hear you thoughts on that bike vs the Ryve that you seemed to love over on Dusty Betty’s page. I think I’ve got it narrowed down to those two bikes.

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

No, but I've pedalled the Mayhem 150 a bit.

@wesleywermuth9545 2 года назад

I’ve got the 2018 steel rocker too and it’s fantastic. I wish the steel rocker had the same geometry that the new carbon rocker has. My XL steel rocker feels more like a L than an XL. The new carbon rocker is so fun and fast, but I prefer the more supple steel rocker frame.

@designfoodtogo 2 года назад

Thanks for the review Steve. I am curious if you kept the Fox 34 stepcast or went with a beefier Fox or Rockshox or? I am starting to search for used Pike 130s as a replacement. but I am still undecided. I am between 210 and 220lbs on a Medium Rocker

@hardtailparty 2 года назад

I kept the stepcast, it's one of my favorite fork, but I only weigh 180. At 220, I'd go for a pike. If you decide to sell in your sc34, let me know.

@designfoodtogo 2 года назад

@@hardtailparty Thanks! I am only 2 rides in. so fun. I don't ride nearly as hard as you though. I need to change that Spot seat though. If I change to a Pike I will let you know.

@marcusgreco 3 года назад

I’m still a bit confused how a belt drive works? When it comes to shifting I thought there is none so how do you go downhill without spinning out and how do you got up super steep tech without being able to go into a lower gear. I might be an idiot here but I’m just a little confused how belt drive works 😂 sorry. Also awesome if mate! I love the way you structure your reviews so keep up the amazing work :-)

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

The belt drive is singlespeed only. You learn to adapt with a singlespeed an muscle up tricky terrain. When i put gears on, i swapped to a chain.

@buckroger6456 3 года назад

You can get gears with a belt drive but that would mean getting a pinion gearbox or Rohloff gearhub equipped bike.

@squishlefunke 3 года назад

Tuning a belt drive tension according to to the pitch is amazing... Does the app tell you to tune to a lower note if you ride a larger size bike? 😂

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

Same size chainstay on all sizes.

@mattturner7593 3 года назад

Would like to see 2021 giant fathom. It looks like a nice budget hard tail.

@trailblazeratv6306 3 года назад

Are you saying you do not want to spend $3600 on a Hardtail? Ha ha

@mattturner7593 3 года назад

@@trailblazeratv6306 lol

@pepeanza6187 3 года назад

I can tell you I have one since last November fathom 29 1 I'm not goin to say to much but this bike change my mind about new geometry after 4 months of riding this hardtail I try my enduro 29 specialized 2016 full suspension the las weekend and decide to sell the enduro and put the fathom as my main bike incredible that a new hardtail whit new geometry performs better than a 4-5 years ago full suspension enduro bike

@user-lc2mu9jk2b 3 года назад

You say the cranks are too long, but the looking at the geometry the BB is higher than many (most) other bike. Interesting...

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

For ideal crank length, you should factor on more than just pedal strikes.

@mellissanash7517 3 года назад

You have really sold on this with wider 29er tires. Is their carbon that much better tuned than say the DV9? How is on road for those of us that ride to the trails?

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

Yes, it's WAY more compliant than the dv9. All mtbs are fine on the road.

@csmaztah 3 года назад

Please review Nukeproof Scout!!

@brettmatson9052 3 года назад

Could you run it 29 up front 27.5 out back. Dumb question? Great reviews

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

Yes, you can run any 29er as a mullet.

@BadV2 3 года назад

Get review! What is the chain set-up equivalent in gearing to the Gate belts set-up? Thanks!

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

See video, i talk about it. It's the equivalent of a 32/19.4

@BadV2 3 года назад

@@hardtailparty Gotcha! Sorry man, I missed that part. Thanks for the review. It solidifies me wanting this bike.

@brittaschaer4463 3 года назад

I would suggest that you the try plus set up with some much lighter plus wheels and then give us your opinion. I would think that you would gain back that zippiness. I have 27.5 Plus Scott Scale frame with nice light Plus wheels ( low 1700 grams weight according to the web site) and it feels pretty zippy at least for me. Most 27.5 stock plus wheel sets run in 2000-2200 grams weight which is heavy and you feel it all the time. Great reviews non the less.

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

There's an endless number of ways i can test bikes. For this review, I wanted to compare the stock models as close as possible. Plus wheels and tires will always be heavier than 29ers. These rekons are pretty lights and the stans barons aren't bad at all. The good news is that you can pick your preference with this bike and order what suits you best. I have a set of super light plus wheels and they're still not as zippy as a good set of 29ers.

@brittaschaer4463 3 года назад

@@hardtailparty I just learned something. I have been always wandering how nice and light 27.5 Plus wheel set would compare to nice and light 29 wheel set.

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

@@brittaschaer4463 They feel different. Not as zippy, but LOTS of traction and comfort.

@karolkrawczyk1 3 года назад

@@hardtailparty And what tires do you recommend in general for a good aggressive hardtail?

@brittaschaer4463 3 года назад

@@hardtailparty i have to apologize. I accidentally logged in with my wife account. Ups.

@mid2573 3 года назад

...even better/more fun than Banshee Paradox in xc mode?

@deadfinggerz 3 года назад

How about making it slacker like that Yeti Arc. See if you still like the bike after that.

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

I love it as is and don't feel the need to make it slacker. I worry it would take away from the zippy fun nature it has. It i made it slacker, I'd want to run a shorter stem and then the reach would be too short.

@gregling Год назад

I have watched this review at least 7 times and really want to get this bike, but I already have a Spot Honey Badger that I ride almost every day that is so much fun. I feel much the same as you describe on that bike. Have you ridden the earlier Spot single speeds? The longboard, steel rocker or honey badger? I may have missed it but you don't mention this. I think Spot bikes have felt like this for a while. This one just happens to be carbon. Or am I wrong? I'd like to be convinced. I've never had too many bikes!

@hardtailparty Год назад

I've never ridden the original honey badger, sorry.

@gregling Год назад

@@hardtailparty Thanks for your reply! I was too tempted and did order the carbon Rocker SS with the end of season discount prices. It is being delivered tomorrow and I can't wait! It is my 4th belt drive bike and I won't ever go back. I appreciate your review!

@hardtailparty Год назад

@@gregling congrats, it's an amazing bike.

@tombowman9463 3 года назад

Wow, that looks like fun. It makes me think that a light build would make a gravel bike pointless too.

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

There would be a good amount of overlap.

@tombowman9463 3 года назад

@@hardtailparty I wonder if the Rocker would accept even narrower tires. Not sure that would ever seem necessary, but it's a thought.

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

@@tombowman9463 every bike on the plannet can accept narrower tires, it's just a question of the rims.

@tombowman9463 3 года назад

@@hardtailparty Well, I guess so. Duh! :)

@rockefelleragent1357 3 года назад

Never seen a belt drive MTB before... that's interesting. Is it interchangeable with chain? Furthermore can you put on the belt on any MTB's like Specialized, Trek, etc?

@hardtailparty 3 года назад

You need a special frame with a split in it to accommodate the belt.

@rockefelleragent1357 3 года назад

@@hardtailparty oh ic thanks