Bought a clapped out AF last year and swapped out every part almost bring it to the V2 carbon spec you have. Factory 36, coil shock, code R brakes, upgraded to full GX. It is probably the most capable bike out there. I can ride cross country, climb uphill, I race enduro and started racing downhill. I honestly can’t say enough good things about this bike!
I love my V2. I love the look of them partly due them being different from the others, when you look at the bike close up with the curvy lines and excellent paint job you can tell they are high quality. I’ve had mine 7 months through all sorts of trails including bike parks and there is not much it can’t handle.
This is one of the only bikes I've ridden that has been really "eye opening." Normally a shorter travel rider I thought the Ripmo would be a big slow thing to get around the trail, boy was I wrong.
Thanks for this video. It's very well produced as always. I it's impossible to demo Ripmos where I live ... I am glad you like it. My Spire is finally here in a couple of weeks 😆
Got my V2 right before the snow flew, so I only got a few rides in. Just got the first 2 days of spring riding, and can't stop smiling. It's so smashy, but still climbs like a dream.
Been running my V2 for almost 2 years … it’s by far the best pedaling most capable trail/enduro bike I’ve ridden… about 6 months ago, I put on i9 hydra laced to Nox farlow carbon wheels - by far the best (albeit expensive) upgrade for the bike
Yes! My Ripmo AF wasn't as pretty as the carbon! It was too heavy for me. My Ripley V4 is svelte and fast. Not enough travel though. I needed to be on the Ripmo v2. And then i ended up on a sale Ripley AF... Going to upgrade that for now so I can beat the hell out of it. When I'm able I'll get onto a Ripmo one day do a frame/suspension change. Really want to try those Berd spokes!
I thought it looked like Snowshoe, then i saw "The Fingers" and it was confirmed. Would love to have a Ripmo and and hardtail combo for all the terrian we have here in WV.
I've had a v1 Ripmo since 2018 and it's a great all-mountain bike for trails and Trestle bike park. I've used a -1 degree Works angled headset for a long time so the geo is more like v2. You might like the Stumpjumper EVO. I was impressed by that bike and it felt a lot like my Ripmo. Plus the head tube angle is adjustable.
The stumpy evo is a pretty good bike. There's just something really nice about a bike that nails versatility in it's overall geo versus one that tries to tackle versatility with adjustable geo.
@@SemiSendy I dont think your looking at the EVO right. The EVO is the bike for a person who rides local Pedal up that are quick fire stuff but needs the same bike they can ride at the bike park. It offers a much broader range of MTB. I always found the limits of the Ripmo and is more weighted towards local pedals that has blue and black features - the EVO basically takes that and turns it up to the max without being enduro bike level. Theres a reason trail/AM bikes are starting to appear with huge amount of adjustment, the new Fuel EX now has it to but even more.
@@MrSupermugenin the end, it’s truly personal opinion. Having ridden both I didn’t find the evo to be more capable. If it caters more towards your personal riding style and comfort, then it’s a better fit for you. 🤘
Spot on review dude. Supported by Spoke X, love that brother. I can relate to this as my son rides the V 2 Ripmo AF and it has changed his riding and made him way better. The stand over on this bike is so low and the geometry is so good.
The V2 is still the bike to beat. I’ve been riding mine for a year and a half and it has been so much fun it’s inspired me to put in the most days I’ve ever ridden in a season -as well as push my skill levels higher because of how capable it is.
I love the look of the Ripmo/Ripley. Smooth curvy look to it. Lots of MTB bikes are just too angular and busy with the geo. They look like kids bikes to me. Ibis all the way
One the best all around bikes available for variable terrain, if not the best. It’s ticks off all the cliches. The DVO topaz Air is a great choice for ease of tune-ability and extra pop. Really brings the fun factor out. I would like to try a x2 though on some rowdy down hill. 👍🏻🤘
Got the exact bike with a DVO build from N+1 last February. Love it. Still trying to find the best solution to keep the cable rattle noise down though.
Man you hit it spot on for how I look at the ripmo. I just don’t like how it looks. Lol I’m stuck between a ripmo and a pivot Firebird. I think I’m leaning more towards the Firebird strictly for its looks and I hate that.
I’m finding it really hard to choose between this, the hightower, or the sentinel. Really need to ride all three, but I’m currently on a Ripley AF which has been great
The Sentinel is very different. I compared it to the Hightower and Ripmo both in different videos from earlier this year. Give the all a try if you can!
Haven't ridden new HT but assume it's similar to previous with some tweaks. The HT is like a Ripmo (similar GEO) but a bit squishier. HT is more plush, but still pedals well. Ripmo is more efficient, but still good at soaking trail chatter up. Easier to ride a HT fast through technical terrain, easier to pedal a Ripmo longer, IMO. The Sentinel is an all mountain wanna be Enduro bike. Super slack Geo, if your trails aren't continuous DH / super steep, I wouldn't go for Sentinel. Sentinel would be better if someone wanted to do a bunch of park riding as well as trail riding.
Good job on this! On my second v2. I was one of the first to purchase one from Shaun in star destroyer grey. It was a large and weighed in at 28.8 lbs! Now on a bug zapper blue with more beefier stuff and yes, the Spokex We Are One wheels. I was afraid to make the shift to carbon but Shaun convinced me. Second one from N+1bikes... The Ripmo is anything you want it to be. I run mine like the enduro sponsored guys do with a 170mm Zeb fork and its amazing in CO, UT, and NM chunk. The Ripmo is anything you want it to be, want an enduro rig, run the 170mm fork with a coil. Want a real poppy bike, run the fox DPX2. Want the best of both worlds, run Fox X2 air shock. So, the question is, did you buy it or do you have to return it? Looks like the Ripmo has you going form semi sendy to full sendi... Love the video, great observations...
I couldn't agree with you more! This one was a demo bike. It was sold through the shop last week. Such a beautiful color, and I truly loved every minute on it!
So with all the time you spent with your ripmo. Can you give us some of your opinion about ibis sizing? For instance, Size L 5’7-6’1 do you think thats accurate? Or people like 5’8-5’10 is better with size M? As always, great content! Thanks
Hey Matt, all I can definitely say is that for me personally a size Large is spot on. I'm 6' and the geo numbers are right in line with my personal preferences. Bike fit is highly personal. We all have different body proportions, different riding styles and different personal preferences in how fit compliments us as individuals. If you know of a bike that fits you well, take a look at the geometry numbers between the two and see how they compare. A good jumping off point for a lot of people is the reach number.
I rented a Ripmo v2 last June and loved it. I'm 5'10" and the medium was fine, though I usually ride a large. * you give some specs of the bike in this video, but forgot to mention what size you're riding.
I’m really interested in your suspension setup fork/shock (psi, tokens, LSC/HSC, LSR/HSR). We’re about the same size and have a very similar riding style. Thanks in advance.
As Andy said, Jeff made a comment on the two which is spot on. Both bikes have a nice playful and poppy suspension, however the Evil's tend to be more plush and less supportive off the top. The Evil's are awesome, but I'm in the same camp as Jeff where I prefer more top end support to push into to pump and pop through the terrain.
Strangely, I actually ruled out the bike due to the fox 38. Im not a gentle rider, but i still dont see how a 38 suits an aggressive trail bike and doesn't negatively affect it in terms of loveliness. A 36 is way more than sufficient.
It comes down to the rider, heavier or more aggressive rider will want the 38, a lighter and less aggressive rider will be fine with a 36, the DVO Onyx splits the difference. Having ridden all 3 forks, I've yet to find a downside to the 38 over the 36
@@mrvwbug4423 ive ridden all of them too, and I definitely feel a difference in character and liveliness. It's not necessarily a con, and indeed it might benefit some riders, but I argue those riders are not the majority of Ripmo customers. I'd understand if it was a burly ploughy enduro rig, but the ripmo is originally more of a versatile long travel trail/all mountain thats easy to manageme. As such, the 38 feels to me like a sort of "we've had some stock issues" decision.
@@finkelmann I agree the bike works well with both forks, the 38 is definitely a tad stiff when at lower speeds as is the Zeb, but I suspect the move to the 38 may be due to popular demand as well, it's been a popular change to the Ripmo and from what I've seen for every person that is trying to weight weenie their Ripmo into a long travel XC bike, 4 are going to 170 forks and using em as nimble enduro bikes.
I love my ripmo version 2 . Best bike a i have ever ridden even on jump trails . My only minor gripe is the lower BB does need to be watched on bigger terrain . It super agile, poppy if you set up the suspension with that in mind
It fixes the two biggest complaints about the Ripmo AF, the excessive weight and the flexy front end. The RAF is a monster truck in fast tech, the front end is nowhere near as precise as a carbon bike, but it does monster truck well, it will forgive most of your bad line choices.
Gone to a few demo days recently to try some longer travel trail bikes (Sentinal, Altitude, Hardline) and nothing matches the balance the Ripmo v2 gives me. I recently threw a coil on it and it's even better descending now, it's primarily my bike park choice these days since I got a Element. The Ripmo was the only demo I've ever tried and knew it was my next bike right off the bat.
@@323johnnybravo way better climber than the altitude. If I had one bike it would be the ripmo but if I was more into Enduro I would get an altitude. Great bikes, my other bike is the element so I like Rocky mountain quite a bit.
I've had the V2 (purchased from Mr. George himself) since early 21 and absolutely love it, but I've gone through so many iterations of suspension setup. I'm trying to soften the tail and firm up the front for support riding steeps but without loosing sensitivity. It's been a tough recipe for me to nail down. I'm curious if you'd share your suspension setup with the people, clicks, tokens, and any other dirty secrets?
Hey Gordon, unfortunately there's no one size fits all/most approach with suspension set-up when you're truly trying to dial things in. It's a very subjective and personal decision process. I always start off removing any tokens in the fork, dial in my baseline SAG and then start the better/worse/same approach to bracketing through rebound and compression. Finally I'll add tokens if I need any final end stroke support. Thoughts on sag: ua-cam.com/video/sG84WjHTc1A/v-deo.html better/worse/same method for rebound and compression: ua-cam.com/video/Ul1ers8bpKg/v-deo.html Guide to Tokens/Volume Spacers: ua-cam.com/video/IdoF3qUFaX0/v-deo.html Hope that helps guide the way!
Hey man. Great video as always. Did your test bike come with the Ibis Traction Tuned X2 and 38? Just curious what you think of their tuning and if you went by their recommended settings or went your own way.
Yes, mine was right off the retail floor. I was impressed with the base suggested tuning in the guide. Felt much better than most. I worked from there to find what worked best from me, but it was a nice jumping off point.
I’m not a fan of the looks of the Ibis bikes, either. If that top tube was straight, I think that’s all it would take to fix it. I’m intrigued by them though, and this video has heightened that. What does your carbon bike that you’ve been riding weigh, and what does it have for wheels on it? Thanks!
Not sure on the weight. I honestly never weigh bikes at the home shop. I prefer not to have any numbers in my head while testing. The feel is the most important part, and I don't want to have a preconceived bias/notion in the back of my mind before I hop on them. I've got a couple of sets of Spokex SX310 carbon wheels that I use for all of my testing to keep that from being a variable from bike to bike. One set up with trail casing Dissector/Assegai tires and the other with DH casing DHRII/Assegai. I swap between them depending on what I'm riding.
I very sadly just sold my V2 (t was a hard breakup). As a shorter rider the reach on the Medium was optimal, but the butt buzz from the 29er and getting a bit bucked around on rollers and steeps was for real. I went the mullet route and this 5'7" person likes that much better. The reason I mention this is that it would be great if on the V3 if Ibis had the option to run a smaller wheel out back and threw a flip chip in there somewhere. In short, the Ripmo V2 was beyond amazing, but did lack a touch of versatility. If I was 5'11" I don't think I'd be writing this. (as an aside the Fox 38 on mine really helped with some plow-ability and coils out back rode well too!!).
@@Nunes929 the medium Ripmo was great at 5'7" with a 35mm stem for me. I picked up a V4 Bronson but don't get me wrong...the Ripmo was a fabulous bike I rode a ton for a full season.
@@SemiSendy at first I had that issue, but I ve learned to center myself on the bike. Occasionally it happens on very steep and “oh sh!t” moments. Thing is, the Sentinel is not a fun bike to ride unless the trail is very fast. Thanks for your time guys
I agree with you on the looks of the Ripmo but it does seem to be one hell of bike and looks don't have to be everything. You definitely make the bike look like its floating out on the trails. Maybe you can answer this question. While I think your Ripmo looks good with the bug zapper blue, what is with all the bike companies making one of their main colorways this teal, turquoise, or mint green we see so often? Its just my personal preference but I cant stand those colors and always wondered why we see soooo many companies with it on their bikes.
I hate to bust your balls but you have the geo wrong. The large has a 475 reach and 1238 WB. The medium has a 460 reach and 1219 WB. There is not a size with a 475mm reach and 1219mm WB. I just checked the Ibis website. Otherwise another great video!
Oh man! I can't believe I crossed that up. That's going to drive me crazy now. Times like this I curse that UA-cam doesn't allow you to update a video. Haha.
Hi I see the weight being mentioned multiple times. Wonder if you've had a chance to ride an ebike? Because after knowing that I can attack everything even on the heavy ebike, the weight of my enduro bike completely lost my interest as doesn't makes noticable difference unless you run xc laps. I love your videos and let us know your thoughts :)
Hi, Marek! I've ridden quite a number of ebikes, and plenty of heavy enduro bikes, DH bikes, etc. They all present different advantages and disadvantages on the descents. For long days earning elevation in the mountains though, there's no question the weight plays a role when climbing. Rides under 2 hours a little extra weight is managable, but past that threshold and I can certainly appreciate a lighter and more spry feeling bike/design.
That was a 40mm stem, but I also thought the 50mm stem was great on both the V2 and AF models. I personally didn't care for the shorter 35mm stem on it.
2 comments on the Ripmo. The carbon version is stupid expensive for what you get component wise. The AF (alloy) version only comes with DVO/Marzocchi suspension. If the AF came with Rockshox or Fox suspension, I would be more likely to buy.
Have you tried the DVO suspension? To be honest I think I like it better than FOX. And I’ve seen multiple people actually switch from rockshox/Fox to DVO.
Honestly the topaz 3 or jade x pair so well this bike I dont see any reason upgrading those unless you want more compression adjustability with a super deluxe ultimate or something of that sorts. I ended up receiving my ripmo af with the z1 coil on it and immediately swapped it for a 22 lyrik ultimate. I am just gonna sell the z1 make my profits back and bomb down hills on the current build :)
@@dalonfrench789 It's not about suspension quality . It's about parts availability and repair-ability. DVO comes on very few bikes and is a tiny company. The only bike that I know of is the Ripmo. I want to be able to get parts and repairs at any bike shop.
@@marksandoval5361 Actually dvo is starting to show up on a lot of bikes. Look at the fezzari Delano for example. I think that dvo is a great company and I understand your worry about part availability, that will always be a problem with a smaller company. Although, every company is going start small, they have to garner a gathering to grow just like fox and rockshox. I believe dvo is doing great things when it comes to tune-ability and being able to work on your suspension without needing specialized parts. I honestly would have been happy with an onyx upfront on my Ripmo but definitely prefer lyrik ult over z1 coil.
Momentum & staying light is the key. Using a combination of weighting and unweighting the front and back wheels to hold and maintain forward momentum. This skillset is something I'll be teaching in one of the videos in an upcoming series I'm working on here on this channel.
@@SemiSendy Thanks for your answer. Have you already tried the new HT3? On paper it's little improvement, but many that have ridden the 2 (and 3) find that the 3 is very improved in the suspension department and lot more fun etc. I'm currently waiting to try it (but have to wait till end of oct.).
I know! Life's been a bit crazy. I've been getting a bunch of POV Raw video's up on the Patreon page, but just didn't have time to make full episodes here for a bit.
I think I would just stay with the AF. The carbon v2 Frame with the X2 shock is $4500 alone. The difference in the ride is minimal and the hair splitting between the two depends more on rider skill than the frame material. Save your money and up your game.
@@casestudymtb Get fit. No excuses. Quit feeding the industry to be a poser. Have you ever heard of changing tires to match conditions, or are you too broke to have 2 sets of tires?
@@SemiSendy Been riding tech trails since rigid was the only option and I have seen plenty of posers with what is now $10K bikes, and they still suck at riding. Do a side by side time trial w the AF and the carbon V2. I bet your time splits would be almost identical. Not worth it.
@@petedog9581 don’t be so quick to judge and make assumptions of others. I started in ‘88 myself. Even rode and raced full rigid single speeds most of my 20’s by choice. That doesn’t make you nor I any better or cooler than newcomers to the sport. It also doesn’t make either of us an authority on the sport or the tech. We’re entitled to our opinions, but they are still just opinions.
This is a great riding bike. But the looks like you said are not so great. Kinda looks like a Wal-Mart bike. But I wish I had one sometimes on the climbs
Bought a clapped out AF last year and swapped out every part almost bring it to the V2 carbon spec you have. Factory 36, coil shock, code R brakes, upgraded to full GX. It is probably the most capable bike out there. I can ride cross country, climb uphill, I race enduro and started racing downhill. I honestly can’t say enough good things about this bike!
That's awesome! Good bones worthy of the upgrades all day long, for sure.
I love my V2. I love the look of them partly due them being different from the others, when you look at the bike close up with the curvy lines and excellent paint job you can tell they are high quality. I’ve had mine 7 months through all sorts of trails including bike parks and there is not much it can’t handle.
This is one of the only bikes I've ridden that has been really "eye opening." Normally a shorter travel rider I thought the Ripmo would be a big slow thing to get around the trail, boy was I wrong.
Thanks for this video. It's very well produced as always. I it's impossible to demo Ripmos where I live ... I am glad you like it. My Spire is finally here in a couple of weeks 😆
Glad you enjoyed it!
Got my V2 right before the snow flew, so I only got a few rides in. Just got the first 2 days of spring riding, and can't stop smiling. It's so smashy, but still climbs like a dream.
Been running my V2 for almost 2 years … it’s by far the best pedaling most capable trail/enduro bike I’ve ridden… about 6 months ago, I put on i9 hydra laced to Nox farlow carbon wheels - by far the best (albeit expensive) upgrade for the bike
Bugzapper V2 baby, mine has 4013 miles since September 28th 2020 and it just keeps going! BY FAR my favorite bike I've ever owned. Yeeww!!
That Bug Zapper is one of the nicest looking bikes I've ever ridden as well!
Yes! My Ripmo AF wasn't as pretty as the carbon! It was too heavy for me. My Ripley V4 is svelte and fast. Not enough travel though. I needed to be on the Ripmo v2.
And then i ended up on a sale Ripley AF... Going to upgrade that for now so I can beat the hell out of it. When I'm able I'll get onto a Ripmo one day do a frame/suspension change.
Really want to try those Berd spokes!
It’s hard to go wrong with any of them! The Ripley AF will be awesome for a long time to come.
Looks are the first impression brother...if there is no spark on that front it can be hard to commit. Glad you gave it a go and are impressed.
I thought it looked like Snowshoe, then i saw "The Fingers" and it was confirmed. Would love to have a Ripmo and and hardtail combo for all the terrian we have here in WV.
I've had a v1 Ripmo since 2018 and it's a great all-mountain bike for trails and Trestle bike park. I've used a -1 degree Works angled headset for a long time so the geo is more like v2.
You might like the Stumpjumper EVO. I was impressed by that bike and it felt a lot like my Ripmo. Plus the head tube angle is adjustable.
The stumpy evo is a pretty good bike. There's just something really nice about a bike that nails versatility in it's overall geo versus one that tries to tackle versatility with adjustable geo.
@@SemiSendy I dont think your looking at the EVO right. The EVO is the bike for a person who rides local Pedal up that are quick fire stuff but needs the same bike they can ride at the bike park. It offers a much broader range of MTB. I always found the limits of the Ripmo and is more weighted towards local pedals that has blue and black features - the EVO basically takes that and turns it up to the max without being enduro bike level.
Theres a reason trail/AM bikes are starting to appear with huge amount of adjustment, the new Fuel EX now has it to but even more.
@@MrSupermugenin the end, it’s truly personal opinion. Having ridden both I didn’t find the evo to be more capable. If it caters more towards your personal riding style and comfort, then it’s a better fit for you. 🤘
which bike is better at pedaling/climbing between the EVO and the Ripmo?
@@Shred_Tube be the ripmo for sure.
My current dream custom build is a Ripmo V2 and I am in love.
Spot on review dude. Supported by Spoke X, love that brother. I can relate to this as my son rides the V 2 Ripmo AF and it has changed his riding and made him way better. The stand over on this bike is so low and the geometry is so good.
Hunter’s good people! 🤘
@@SemiSendy 💯💯💯🔥🤘🙏
The V2 is still the bike to beat. I’ve been riding mine for a year and a half and it has been so much fun it’s inspired me to put in the most days I’ve ever ridden in a season -as well as push my skill levels higher because of how capable it is.
Great vid and congrats on 15k subscribers
I love the look of the Ripmo/Ripley. Smooth curvy look to it. Lots of MTB bikes are just too angular and busy with the geo. They look like kids bikes to me. Ibis all the way
One the best all around bikes available for variable terrain, if not the best. It’s ticks off all the cliches.
The DVO topaz Air is a great choice for ease of tune-ability and extra pop. Really brings the fun factor out. I would like to try a x2 though on some rowdy down hill.
👍🏻🤘
Got the exact bike with a DVO build from N+1 last February. Love it. Still trying to find the best solution to keep the cable rattle noise down though.
There are some foam inserts I’ve seen people use
@@diegocamacho3134 interesting. Something they just created on their own ?
Jagwire makes a generic foam insert. I’m guessing you’re referring to the AF version?
@@SemiSendy Yup I am assuming that’s not a problem on the v2 since it has those cable channels
@@diegocamacho3134 yeah, I noticed it on the AF though. The Jagwire foam should work well with the AF!
Thanks for the review dude! Just ordered a 2023 Rimpo Vs2 today haha
So funny, Ive also heard nothing but good things about the Ripmo but I cant get over the look either 😂
Man you hit it spot on for how I look at the ripmo. I just don’t like how it looks. Lol I’m stuck between a ripmo and a pivot Firebird. I think I’m leaning more towards the Firebird strictly for its looks and I hate that.
If you can ride them both before you make a decision, I'd recommend that. Two very different bikes. The new HD6 would be more akin to the Firebird.
I’m finding it really hard to choose between this, the hightower, or the sentinel. Really need to ride all three, but I’m currently on a Ripley AF which has been great
The Sentinel is very different. I compared it to the Hightower and Ripmo both in different videos from earlier this year. Give the all a try if you can!
Haven't ridden new HT but assume it's similar to previous with some tweaks. The HT is like a Ripmo (similar GEO) but a bit squishier. HT is more plush, but still pedals well. Ripmo is more efficient, but still good at soaking trail chatter up. Easier to ride a HT fast through technical terrain, easier to pedal a Ripmo longer, IMO. The Sentinel is an all mountain wanna be Enduro bike. Super slack Geo, if your trails aren't continuous DH / super steep, I wouldn't go for Sentinel. Sentinel would be better if someone wanted to do a bunch of park riding as well as trail riding.
Good job on this! On my second v2. I was one of the first to purchase one from Shaun in star destroyer grey. It was a large and weighed in at 28.8 lbs! Now on a bug zapper blue with more beefier stuff and yes, the Spokex We Are One wheels. I was afraid to make the shift to carbon but Shaun convinced me. Second one from N+1bikes... The Ripmo is anything you want it to be. I run mine like the enduro sponsored guys do with a 170mm Zeb fork and its amazing in CO, UT, and NM chunk. The Ripmo is anything you want it to be, want an enduro rig, run the 170mm fork with a coil. Want a real poppy bike, run the fox DPX2. Want the best of both worlds, run Fox X2 air shock. So, the question is, did you buy it or do you have to return it? Looks like the Ripmo has you going form semi sendy to full sendi... Love the video, great observations...
I couldn't agree with you more! This one was a demo bike. It was sold through the shop last week. Such a beautiful color, and I truly loved every minute on it!
What spec at that weight, my large is still 31 with some lightening efforts., thank you
So with all the time you spent with your ripmo. Can you give us some of your opinion about ibis sizing? For instance, Size L 5’7-6’1 do you think thats accurate? Or people like 5’8-5’10 is better with size M? As always, great content! Thanks
Hey Matt, all I can definitely say is that for me personally a size Large is spot on. I'm 6' and the geo numbers are right in line with my personal preferences.
Bike fit is highly personal. We all have different body proportions, different riding styles and different personal preferences in how fit compliments us as individuals. If you know of a bike that fits you well, take a look at the geometry numbers between the two and see how they compare. A good jumping off point for a lot of people is the reach number.
I rented a Ripmo v2 last June and loved it.
I'm 5'10" and the medium was fine, though I usually ride a large.
* you give some specs of the bike in this video, but forgot to mention what size you're riding.
Ah, I sure did! I was on the Large.
I’m really interested in your suspension setup fork/shock (psi, tokens, LSC/HSC, LSR/HSR). We’re about the same size and have a very similar riding style. Thanks in advance.
Now you just need to compare it an Evil Offering V2, would be cool to hear you thoughts.
Jeff Kendal Weed makes a brief comparison in his latest video of AF versus V2
As Andy said, Jeff made a comment on the two which is spot on. Both bikes have a nice playful and poppy suspension, however the Evil's tend to be more plush and less supportive off the top. The Evil's are awesome, but I'm in the same camp as Jeff where I prefer more top end support to push into to pump and pop through the terrain.
Strangely, I actually ruled out the bike due to the fox 38. Im not a gentle rider, but i still dont see how a 38 suits an aggressive trail bike and doesn't negatively affect it in terms of loveliness. A 36 is way more than sufficient.
Some shops will swap parts for you and it still shouldn't be a deterrent from trying/getting a great bike!
It comes down to the rider, heavier or more aggressive rider will want the 38, a lighter and less aggressive rider will be fine with a 36, the DVO Onyx splits the difference. Having ridden all 3 forks, I've yet to find a downside to the 38 over the 36
@@LastAphelion some shops indeed but most won't.
@@mrvwbug4423 ive ridden all of them too, and I definitely feel a difference in character and liveliness. It's not necessarily a con, and indeed it might benefit some riders, but I argue those riders are not the majority of Ripmo customers. I'd understand if it was a burly ploughy enduro rig, but the ripmo is originally more of a versatile long travel trail/all mountain thats easy to manageme. As such, the 38 feels to me like a sort of "we've had some stock issues" decision.
@@finkelmann I agree the bike works well with both forks, the 38 is definitely a tad stiff when at lower speeds as is the Zeb, but I suspect the move to the 38 may be due to popular demand as well, it's been a popular change to the Ripmo and from what I've seen for every person that is trying to weight weenie their Ripmo into a long travel XC bike, 4 are going to 170 forks and using em as nimble enduro bikes.
I love my ripmo version 2 . Best bike a i have ever ridden even on jump trails . My only minor gripe is the lower BB does need to be watched on bigger terrain . It super agile, poppy if you set up the suspension with that in mind
Get a 170mm or 165mm set of cranks and that issue goes away fast.
@@SkiRidesMTB yeah, I do need to do this . Thanks
It fixes the two biggest complaints about the Ripmo AF, the excessive weight and the flexy front end. The RAF is a monster truck in fast tech, the front end is nowhere near as precise as a carbon bike, but it does monster truck well, it will forgive most of your bad line choices.
Gone to a few demo days recently to try some longer travel trail bikes (Sentinal, Altitude, Hardline) and nothing matches the balance the Ripmo v2 gives me. I recently threw a coil on it and it's even better descending now, it's primarily my bike park choice these days since I got a Element. The Ripmo was the only demo I've ever tried and knew it was my next bike right off the bat.
I just demoed an Altitude and loved it. How would you compare the Ripmo to that bike directly ?
@@323johnnybravo way better climber than the altitude. If I had one bike it would be the ripmo but if I was more into Enduro I would get an altitude. Great bikes, my other bike is the element so I like Rocky mountain quite a bit.
I've had the V2 (purchased from Mr. George himself) since early 21 and absolutely love it, but I've gone through so many iterations of suspension setup. I'm trying to soften the tail and firm up the front for support riding steeps but without loosing sensitivity. It's been a tough recipe for me to nail down. I'm curious if you'd share your suspension setup with the people, clicks, tokens, and any other dirty secrets?
Hey Gordon, unfortunately there's no one size fits all/most approach with suspension set-up when you're truly trying to dial things in. It's a very subjective and personal decision process. I always start off removing any tokens in the fork, dial in my baseline SAG and then start the better/worse/same approach to bracketing through rebound and compression. Finally I'll add tokens if I need any final end stroke support.
Thoughts on sag: ua-cam.com/video/sG84WjHTc1A/v-deo.html
better/worse/same method for rebound and compression: ua-cam.com/video/Ul1ers8bpKg/v-deo.html
Guide to Tokens/Volume Spacers: ua-cam.com/video/IdoF3qUFaX0/v-deo.html
Hope that helps guide the way!
Hey man. Great video as always. Did your test bike come with the Ibis Traction Tuned X2 and 38? Just curious what you think of their tuning and if you went by their recommended settings or went your own way.
Yes, mine was right off the retail floor. I was impressed with the base suggested tuning in the guide. Felt much better than most. I worked from there to find what worked best from me, but it was a nice jumping off point.
Would love to know how the new Hightower compares to this...
I’m not a fan of the looks of the Ibis bikes, either. If that top tube was straight, I think that’s all it would take to fix it. I’m intrigued by them though, and this video has heightened that. What does your carbon bike that you’ve been riding weigh, and what does it have for wheels on it? Thanks!
Not sure on the weight. I honestly never weigh bikes at the home shop. I prefer not to have any numbers in my head while testing. The feel is the most important part, and I don't want to have a preconceived bias/notion in the back of my mind before I hop on them.
I've got a couple of sets of Spokex SX310 carbon wheels that I use for all of my testing to keep that from being a variable from bike to bike. One set up with trail casing Dissector/Assegai tires and the other with DH casing DHRII/Assegai. I swap between them depending on what I'm riding.
I very sadly just sold my V2 (t was a hard breakup). As a shorter rider the reach on the Medium was optimal, but the butt buzz from the 29er and getting a bit bucked around on rollers and steeps was for real. I went the mullet route and this 5'7" person likes that much better. The reason I mention this is that it would be great if on the V3 if Ibis had the option to run a smaller wheel out back and threw a flip chip in there somewhere. In short, the Ripmo V2 was beyond amazing, but did lack a touch of versatility. If I was 5'11" I don't think I'd be writing this. (as an aside the Fox 38 on mine really helped with some plow-ability and coils out back rode well too!!).
At a certain leg/inseam length it can be hard to manage that 29" wheel. Maybe we will see something like that from them in the future.
Wich mullet did you get Mikey? Also 5’7 but on a v1 Sentinel. Was wondering if getting a Ripmo was a smart move…guess not. Thx man
@@Nunes929 the medium Ripmo was great at 5'7" with a 35mm stem for me. I picked up a V4 Bronson but don't get me wrong...the Ripmo was a fabulous bike I rode a ton for a full season.
@@Nunes929 are you having issues with the rear tire clearance on your V1 sentinel?
@@SemiSendy at first I had that issue, but I ve learned to center myself on the bike. Occasionally it happens on very steep and “oh sh!t” moments. Thing is, the Sentinel is not a fun bike to ride unless the trail is very fast. Thanks for your time guys
I agree with you on the looks of the Ripmo but it does seem to be one hell of bike and looks don't have to be everything. You definitely make the bike look like its floating out on the trails. Maybe you can answer this question. While I think your Ripmo looks good with the bug zapper blue, what is with all the bike companies making one of their main colorways this teal, turquoise, or mint green we see so often? Its just my personal preference but I cant stand those colors and always wondered why we see soooo many companies with it on their bikes.
Must be a good selling color. I get it though. That’s how I feel about red bikes 😬
And the way I feel about black bikes.
I hate to bust your balls but you have the geo wrong. The large has a 475 reach and 1238 WB. The medium has a 460 reach and 1219 WB. There is not a size with a 475mm reach and 1219mm WB. I just checked the Ibis website.
Otherwise another great video!
Oh man! I can't believe I crossed that up. That's going to drive me crazy now. Times like this I curse that UA-cam doesn't allow you to update a video. Haha.
This sounds like the it bike for you. Slap on a cascade link if you want abit more downhill performance
Ugh!!! Now I want one. Stop it Rich.
Can't stop, won't stop!
AF or V2, they have that special sauce... Best all rounder everrr....
There's some definite magic in these bikes.
Could you name a couple models you would consider point and plow?
Thanks
Hey, What’s the brand of that blue hoody you’re wearing on the review. Looks like a perfect light fall hoody?
It’s a couple seasons old, but it’s a lightweight Prana hoodie.
ripmo /v2 is still the best bike out there.
It's a bruiser!
Hi I see the weight being mentioned multiple times. Wonder if you've had a chance to ride an ebike? Because after knowing that I can attack everything even on the heavy ebike, the weight of my enduro bike completely lost my interest as doesn't makes noticable difference unless you run xc laps. I love your videos and let us know your thoughts :)
Hi, Marek! I've ridden quite a number of ebikes, and plenty of heavy enduro bikes, DH bikes, etc. They all present different advantages and disadvantages on the descents. For long days earning elevation in the mountains though, there's no question the weight plays a role when climbing. Rides under 2 hours a little extra weight is managable, but past that threshold and I can certainly appreciate a lighter and more spry feeling bike/design.
@@SemiSendy ohh I see. The Spry feeling probably says it as it often does not match the weight number. Best of luck 🤙
How does highspeed small bump compliance, does the rear suspension feel like it will hang up in those situtation?
Does really well, doesn’t have the hang up feeling.
People who think the Ripmo is expensive haven't owned a Yeti 🤣
Great video! What stem are you using? I want the shortest one possiblefor mine
That was a 40mm stem, but I also thought the 50mm stem was great on both the V2 and AF models. I personally didn't care for the shorter 35mm stem on it.
What Does It Weigh ........
2 comments on the Ripmo. The carbon version is stupid expensive for what you get component wise. The AF (alloy) version only comes with DVO/Marzocchi suspension. If the AF came with Rockshox or Fox suspension, I would be more likely to buy.
Have you tried the DVO suspension? To be honest I think I like it better than FOX. And I’ve seen multiple people actually switch from rockshox/Fox to DVO.
Honestly the topaz 3 or jade x pair so well this bike I dont see any reason upgrading those unless you want more compression adjustability with a super deluxe ultimate or something of that sorts. I ended up receiving my ripmo af with the z1 coil on it and immediately swapped it for a 22 lyrik ultimate. I am just gonna sell the z1 make my profits back and bomb down hills on the current build :)
@@dalonfrench789 It's not about suspension quality . It's about parts availability and repair-ability. DVO comes on very few bikes and is a tiny company. The only bike that I know of is the Ripmo. I want to be able to get parts and repairs at any bike shop.
The 2022 t3 topaz is fire. Massive improvements to stiction over the 2021, very supple shock.
@@marksandoval5361 Actually dvo is starting to show up on a lot of bikes. Look at the fezzari Delano for example. I think that dvo is a great company and I understand your worry about part availability, that will always be a problem with a smaller company. Although, every company is going start small, they have to garner a gathering to grow just like fox and rockshox. I believe dvo is doing great things when it comes to tune-ability and being able to work on your suspension without needing specialized parts. I honestly would have been happy with an onyx upfront on my Ripmo but definitely prefer lyrik ult over z1 coil.
I’m just wondering how you defy physics @ 4 minutes by going uphill over rocks without pedaling.
Momentum & staying light is the key. Using a combination of weighting and unweighting the front and back wheels to hold and maintain forward momentum. This skillset is something I'll be teaching in one of the videos in an upcoming series I'm working on here on this channel.
Every new shinning horse gets compared to the Ripmo for a reason.
I can understand why.
This the bike I did a front frame swap on?
Sure is! Hope you guys are doing well. The owl has an awesome spot here at the house.
The question is now... how the hightower v3 compare to the ripmo 2?
The HTv3 is a minor adjustment from the HTv2. My comments on how the two compare in this video applies to the v3 as well.
@@SemiSendy Thanks for your answer. Have you already tried the new HT3? On paper it's little improvement, but many that have ridden the 2 (and 3) find that the 3 is very improved in the suspension department and lot more fun etc. I'm currently waiting to try it (but have to wait till end of oct.).
ripmo or trek fuel ex?
Have you tried the pivot switchblade?
I have, great bike.
@@SemiSendy any reasons you like ripmo over switchblade?
What size are you riding (and how tall are you?)
Large frame, I'm 6'
Switchblade!
have you try the hightower v3?
I have. Rode it out in the sierras in early August. It’s pretty much the same as the V2.
@@SemiSendy so, it's super good bike, right? i have ordered one some weeks ago...
This video should be on redtube hahaha
What a beautifull bike!
It’s been so long since a video
I know! Life's been a bit crazy. I've been getting a bunch of POV Raw video's up on the Patreon page, but just didn't have time to make full episodes here for a bit.
😔 promosm
I think I would just stay with the AF. The carbon v2 Frame with the X2 shock is $4500 alone. The difference in the ride is minimal and the hair splitting between the two depends more on rider skill than the frame material. Save your money and up your game.
Lies. With an assegai and dhr2 on the af, the weight is a major issue if you like pedaling. Descends like a champ though
@@casestudymtb Get fit. No excuses. Quit feeding the industry to be a poser. Have you ever heard of changing tires to match conditions, or are you too broke to have 2 sets of tires?
To each their own, Pete, but I can't say I agree.
@@SemiSendy Been riding tech trails since rigid was the only option and I have seen plenty of posers with what is now $10K bikes, and they still suck at riding. Do a side by side time trial w the AF and the carbon V2. I bet your time splits would be almost identical. Not worth it.
@@petedog9581 don’t be so quick to judge
and make assumptions of others. I started in ‘88 myself. Even rode and raced full rigid single speeds most of my 20’s by choice. That doesn’t make you nor I any better or cooler than newcomers to the sport. It also doesn’t make either of us an authority on the sport or the tech. We’re entitled to our opinions, but they are still just opinions.
Great bike, still don’t like the look of it - looks like it’s been in an accident and got bent out of shape. Yeti design much better.
No question Yeti's are gorgeous bikes. Excellent performers too, but way more firm/race oriented and less on the playful side.
This is a great riding bike. But the looks like you said are not so great. Kinda looks like a Wal-Mart bike. But I wish I had one sometimes on the climbs
So is this your bike now, or are you just bouncing around on review bikes for a while?
This one was a review bike. A friend here in Chattanooga just purchased it though.
@@SemiSendy it the v2 going to be your next bike?
It's a shame that Ibis makes some of the ugliest bikes in the industry (in my opinion haha)
One of my favorite bikes but by far still one of the worst looking. Ripmo AF is even worse. Both look like wet noodles
I've grown to really like the look of the V2.
Great bike but I do admit it’s ugly.
I know it rides well, but still ugly af
It definitely grew on me.