Thanks for the vid I’ve been stuck between forbidden and Santa Cruz and this had proved what the right. Ike is and it’s nice to see someone riding stainburn
Kinda between doing a v2druid as a one bike quiver for riding Santa Cruz and the occasional enduro race vs keeping the spur and riding a dready or claymore for the gnarlier stuff
Coming from a v1 druid, would you recommend moving to a v2 or switching to a vpp system with bronson? Which one is more versatile? And if you could describe to me sensations of what each suspension system offers, thanks guy
The Hot Hatch analogy is great, and similar to what I felt from a tallboy - just like the great 90s hatches, 306, Saxo, early Type R - the back wheels are only their to stop the sparks,Super 1600 rally car spec! 👌😅 5010 sounds like a great 'one' bike for someone who's been a die hard hardtail rider for years but finally wants to succumb to a suspension frame.
Yeah that’s exactly right, it’s a lot more rev it hard and hang on than the Druid, which is more Trophy Truck. If you really love feeling the trail and making the most of it it’s awesome. I think Jim’s been riding V10s too much for the last couple of years 😏
@romand123 I can do without vertical axle paths on trail bikes😉 Once you’ve ridden a Druid you see how it won multiple EDR races whereas a 5010 never could.
@@gweflj that’s all well and good for someone looking to race an enduro on a 130mm trail bike, I guess. I like my trail rigs to be efficient, nimble and poppy. And I think the 5010 has that over the new Druid.
@@romand123 even the chaps from Forgiven agree on that “They’re very different platforms for sure and I definitely agree if you want that traditional ‘pop’ feeling we aren’t the bike for you.“
A lighter, traditional bike like the 5010 is going to feel less stable for sure. The Druid simply has a larger operating window and can hang with longer travel bikes, yet still be efficient enough to pedal. I think I’d go with one of the recent, near XC weight, 120mm, DC bikes over the 5010.
I would be really curious to see if the Santa Cruz with a coil shock and a bit of tinkering about might not be able to match a little bit of that floaty feel from the Druid ?
Reeeeaaally good video. I've got a 5010 V3 (with a coil shock - controversial!) and wondering whether to replace it with a rippy HT and a more 'trail' trail bike, rather than trying to have a fun-feeling, but capable all-in-one. What's the chance of a comparison of the Druid, 5010 and the Atherton AM130, which I'm currently listing after!? Pretty please, it's my birthday (nearly)!
The AM130 is definitely on my list to try as soon as possible. My understanding is that it's definitely on the rowdy end of the 130-150 travel spectrum and the weights I've seen are similar to the Druid so that would be a super interesting test. So hold on and I'll get myself down to Dyfi as soon as possible.
That would be a pair eh! I’d definitely go V2 as the high pivot effect isn’t as pronounced so it’s got more pop and a livelier feel through turns and natural trails. I think a V1 would feel too much like your Dreadnought as it always felt underforked to me with a 150mm, but the V2’feels brilliantly balanced with a 150mm.
@@GuyKesTV Sound good. I have a Cotic BfeMax to salvage for parts. Just swap the frame for the druid. Guess, I really need to think about it. The Dreadnought is so much bike for flowtrails. It feels great in steep and chunky stuff but rather boring where I mostly ride locally. Thanks for your opinion! Did you have the chance to ride a Deviate Highlander in comparison to the Druid?
@@sprousaTM no I’ve not tried the Deviate yet but I’m a super keen to get one in. Speaking of Cotic, Jeht and FlareMax are fantastic bikes for flow trails too.
It pretty much splits the difference exactly between the two of them. Heavier and not as sparky or responsive in the handling as the 5010 but with more neutral suspension and not as brutally stiff in the frame. Lighter and cleaner pedalling feel than the Druid but without the long travel style rear suspension feel for blowing through rock gardens and roots like they aren't there. BTW I couldn't possibly suggest that you tried a 27.5in rear wheel in the 125 as Canyon told me off when I did it, but if you accidentally did you might really enjoy it 🤷♂🤫
TBH on flat ground it’s not really a thing. It’s noticeable when you’re trying to kick out of corners or accelerate towards a feature and on non technical climbs. That’s when you might feel a bit of idler rumble too.
@@oliverburke3743 the Druid would certainly be right up there if you’re OK with an idler. Otherwise it’d be the SC Hightower. It’s just a brilliant all rounder and it pedals noticeably sharper than Canyon Spectral and Spesh Stumpy Evo. I really like the Mondraker Raze too but it’s more of an XC/Trail than Trail/Enduro vibe
@GuyKesTV awesome. Cheers dude. How did you find the sizing on the hightower. Im.5.11. Large looks a bit short on the reach. How does the fuel.ex compare ?
@@oliverburke3743 I’m 5’ 11” (with short legs) and large Hightower was spot on for me. Fuel EX I can ride M/L or L. It’s a very similar ride to the Hightower overall and similarly stiff but it feels more grounded (like really stuck down) rather than poppy compared to Hightower
Do you feel that the long rear center (452mm-Mx s3) on the Druid makes it hard to turn? I feel that it is very long (on paper) compared to my 435mm rear center on my SC. I can’t decide whether to get the s2 or s3.
It is relatively long on paper and it's definitely not as quick to dive into turns as the 5010. It still pitches in pretty quick though as it tends to lift and shorten under braking as it runs more sag than normal. Having more stability feels right too TBH because it goes so bloody fast in situations where most bikes of the same travel start stalling out on square edges.
@@GuyKesTV Awesome - Thank you! I am 5'10 as well and didn't want to buy something too small. I am deciding between a Roscoe 9 and a Druid ha-ha. Leaning towards the Druid because long term I would probably regret not getting it.
Frame feel of Raze actually feels similar to the Forbidden, but with even more as it’s rigged fit flow. Suspension feel is nearer 5010 but the RR I tested was 900g lighter than the 5010 and 1600g lighter than the Druid as it is now. So yeah, definitely more XC vibe but can still rally really hard
I reckon the Norco Optic is the closer match, but yeah I totally get what you mean. Without premium brands pushing tech and new ideas though, you wouldn't get it passed down to more affordable price points. Though in this case the guys at Forbidden actually developed their idler tech for Norco first and the super short stroke Super Deluxe with the really aggressive shock tune on the Optic is a work of left field genius. So yeah actually, I'll shut up about premium brands so yes you are right in the Norco case 🤣
@@GuyKesTV Rear suspension has gotten so good on most brands that there is not much difference between different suspension designs. For mid-travel trail bikes, geometry is also getting consistent, about a 77* STA and 65* HTA. Different bike frames built with the same material weigh about the same. At this point, the only thing bike brands have to compete on is price. Why pay more.
@@marksandoval5361 have to say I’ve been gagging to try the Tempo since I saw it. Not least because that launch video was sick. In fact I’m going to have to go and watch it again now 🤣
Thanks for the vid I’ve been stuck between forbidden and Santa Cruz and this had proved what the right. Ike is and it’s nice to see someone riding stainburn
Great vid.. Really interesting. I love my 5010 v5 but can’t not be intrigued by the Druid
I heard “it’s like a hardtail”, and it made me smile 😊. 5010 for me thanks.
I was hoping for this video!
I have a Marin riftzone xr, super budget friendly, good spec for value and similar travel and geo.
Kinda between doing a v2druid as a one bike quiver for riding Santa Cruz and the occasional enduro race vs keeping the spur and riding a dready or claymore for the gnarlier stuff
Great.. Thank you for creating the vid’
Coming from a v1 druid, would you recommend moving to a v2 or switching to a vpp system with bronson? Which one is more versatile? And if you could describe to me sensations of what each suspension system offers, thanks guy
Could we hope to see you on the Dreadnought v2 any time soon?
Great getting none Buyest reviews , keep up the good work, more feedback on Continental tyres, please.
The Hot Hatch analogy is great, and similar to what I felt from a tallboy - just like the great 90s hatches, 306, Saxo, early Type R - the back wheels are only their to stop the sparks,Super 1600 rally car spec! 👌😅
5010 sounds like a great 'one' bike for someone who's been a die hard hardtail rider for years but finally wants to succumb to a suspension frame.
Yeah that’s exactly right, it’s a lot more rev it hard and hang on than the Druid, which is more Trophy Truck. If you really love feeling the trail and making the most of it it’s awesome. I think Jim’s been riding V10s too much for the last couple of years 😏
For me it’s the new 5010. The Druid’s a rad bike but I can do without idler pulleys on my trail bikes.
It took me a while to get used to the drag sensation too. Plus storage and warranties are better on the Cruz
@romand123 I can do without vertical axle paths on trail bikes😉 Once you’ve ridden a Druid you see how it won multiple EDR races whereas a 5010 never could.
@@gweflj that’s all well and good for someone looking to race an enduro on a 130mm trail bike, I guess. I like my trail rigs to be efficient, nimble and poppy. And I think the 5010 has that over the new Druid.
@@romand123 even the chaps from Forgiven agree on that “They’re very different platforms for sure and I definitely agree if you want that traditional ‘pop’ feeling we aren’t the bike for you.“
A lighter, traditional bike like the 5010 is going to feel less stable for sure. The Druid simply has a larger operating window and can hang with longer travel bikes, yet still be efficient enough to pedal. I think I’d go with one of the recent, near XC weight, 120mm, DC bikes over the 5010.
I would be really curious to see if the Santa Cruz with a coil shock and a bit of tinkering about might not be able to match a little bit of that floaty feel from the Druid ?
Wonder how these bikes compare with the Status 140? That one is heavier and probably doesn’t climb as well, however downhill??
Reeeeaaally good video. I've got a 5010 V3 (with a coil shock - controversial!) and wondering whether to replace it with a rippy HT and a more 'trail' trail bike, rather than trying to have a fun-feeling, but capable all-in-one.
What's the chance of a comparison of the Druid, 5010 and the Atherton AM130, which I'm currently listing after!? Pretty please, it's my birthday (nearly)!
The AM130 is definitely on my list to try as soon as possible. My understanding is that it's definitely on the rowdy end of the 130-150 travel spectrum and the weights I've seen are similar to the Druid so that would be a super interesting test. So hold on and I'll get myself down to Dyfi as soon as possible.
I am on the 2021 Dreadnought and always thought of getting the druid as well for the local "easier" trails. V1 vs V2? What do you think?
That would be a pair eh! I’d definitely go V2 as the high pivot effect isn’t as pronounced so it’s got more pop and a livelier feel through turns and natural trails. I think a V1 would feel too much like your Dreadnought as it always felt underforked to me with a 150mm, but the V2’feels brilliantly balanced with a 150mm.
@@GuyKesTV Sound good. I have a Cotic BfeMax to salvage for parts. Just swap the frame for the druid. Guess, I really need to think about it. The Dreadnought is so much bike for flowtrails. It feels great in steep and chunky stuff but rather boring where I mostly ride locally. Thanks for your opinion! Did you have the chance to ride a Deviate Highlander in comparison to the Druid?
@@sprousaTM no I’ve not tried the Deviate yet but I’m a super keen to get one in. Speaking of Cotic, Jeht and FlareMax are fantastic bikes for flow trails too.
I have a spectral 125 and would be curious how it compares, thanks!
It pretty much splits the difference exactly between the two of them. Heavier and not as sparky or responsive in the handling as the 5010 but with more neutral suspension and not as brutally stiff in the frame. Lighter and cleaner pedalling feel than the Druid but without the long travel style rear suspension feel for blowing through rock gardens and roots like they aren't there. BTW I couldn't possibly suggest that you tried a 27.5in rear wheel in the 125 as Canyon told me off when I did it, but if you accidentally did you might really enjoy it 🤷♂🤫
5010 V5 vs Bronson 🤞🙂👍
Only thing that worries me about the druid is thr weight. Is it noticeable on flatter terrain.
TBH on flat ground it’s not really a thing. It’s noticeable when you’re trying to kick out of corners or accelerate towards a feature and on non technical climbs. That’s when you might feel a bit of idler rumble too.
@GuyKesTV what would you say is you current mid travel 130-150mm trail bike favourite with a sporty fun ride but is capable on the downs
@@oliverburke3743 the Druid would certainly be right up there if you’re OK with an idler. Otherwise it’d be the SC Hightower. It’s just a brilliant all rounder and it pedals noticeably sharper than Canyon Spectral and Spesh Stumpy Evo. I really like the Mondraker Raze too but it’s more of an XC/Trail than Trail/Enduro vibe
@GuyKesTV awesome. Cheers dude. How did you find the sizing on the hightower. Im.5.11. Large looks a bit short on the reach. How does the fuel.ex compare ?
@@oliverburke3743 I’m 5’ 11” (with short legs) and large Hightower was spot on for me. Fuel EX I can ride M/L or L. It’s a very similar ride to the Hightower overall and similarly stiff but it feels more grounded (like really stuck down) rather than poppy compared to Hightower
Do you feel that the long rear center (452mm-Mx s3) on the Druid makes it hard to turn? I feel that it is very long (on paper) compared to my 435mm rear center on my SC. I can’t decide whether to get the s2 or s3.
It is relatively long on paper and it's definitely not as quick to dive into turns as the 5010. It still pitches in pretty quick though as it tends to lift and shorten under braking as it runs more sag than normal. Having more stability feels right too TBH because it goes so bloody fast in situations where most bikes of the same travel start stalling out on square edges.
What size Druid were you riding and how tall are the both of you? - I am stuck between a M and a L sizing and can't make up my mind.
I’m 180cm / 5’ 10” and I was riding the large 👍🏻
@@GuyKesTV Awesome - Thank you! I am 5'10 as well and didn't want to buy something too small. I am deciding between a Roscoe 9 and a Druid ha-ha. Leaning towards the Druid because long term I would probably regret not getting it.
How do these two compare to the Raze, as the Raze seems more XC than either of these two?
Frame feel of Raze actually feels similar to the Forbidden, but with even more as it’s rigged fit flow. Suspension feel is nearer 5010 but the RR I tested was 900g lighter than the 5010 and 1600g lighter than the Druid as it is now. So yeah, definitely more XC vibe but can still rally really hard
@@GuyKesTV great to hear. Thanks for the feedback!
guess 5010 better
And the winner is?---the Norco Fluid or the Commencal Tempo. The 5010 and Druid are too expensive for what you get.
I reckon the Norco Optic is the closer match, but yeah I totally get what you mean. Without premium brands pushing tech and new ideas though, you wouldn't get it passed down to more affordable price points. Though in this case the guys at Forbidden actually developed their idler tech for Norco first and the super short stroke Super Deluxe with the really aggressive shock tune on the Optic is a work of left field genius. So yeah actually, I'll shut up about premium brands so yes you are right in the Norco case 🤣
@@GuyKesTV Rear suspension has gotten so good on most brands that there is not much difference between different suspension designs. For mid-travel trail bikes, geometry is also getting consistent, about a 77* STA and 65* HTA. Different bike frames built with the same material weigh about the same. At this point, the only thing bike brands have to compete on is price. Why pay more.
@@marksandoval5361 have to say I’ve been gagging to try the Tempo since I saw it. Not least because that launch video was sick. In fact I’m going to have to go and watch it again now 🤣
Santa cruz if you ride Like McCaskill l, Druid of you like squishy
TBF that's a great analogy, though Druid is less 'squishy' than you'd expect
Get them both on properly rowdy trails and the Druid would walk away from the 5010.