Chromag Samurai Review - Chromag's Canadian Handbuilt 27.5 Steel All-Mountain Hardtail
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- Опубліковано 16 вер 2024
- Chromag samurai is the canadian version of the wideangle. It's their all-mountain 27.5 bike. Chromag ONLY makes hardtails and components, which is pretty rad. In this episode we take a look to see what they're all about. I know you've all been anxious to see a chromag review on the channel. It's finally time! I want to give a huge shoutout to my buddy Kenny who loaned me his personal bike for this review. The Samurai is the made in canada version of the wideangle.
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That intro never gets old. If it's original music, bravo!
It sounds like it's from 'Scandal ft. Patty Smyth - The Warrior.'
Yes! Finally a Chromag made its way onto your channel! Dude, if I were closer by, I would totally let you try my 160mm travel Lyrik, 29x2.6 Rootdown.
Great review as usual. One thing though is that frame stiffness is a totally subjective thing insomuch as that a frame that you find overly stiff/ harsh will ride way smoother with a larger and heavier rider on board. For instance I am 6 foot 1 and 243 lbs and my Chromag Rootdown gives a lovely ride quality. Likewise a frame that you find compliant will probably feel horribly flexy with a larger rider. Love the channel!
Agreed, I mentioned that in the review. A lot of people have only ridden one or two modern hardtails, so they don't have a large reference point. I've ridden a lot, and chromags are one of the stiffest steel frames out there. I weigh 175lbs, which seems to be heavier than the average rider.
While the rootdown is nice, something like the Cotic SolarisMAX or Honzo ESD both have a much more comfortable ride quality without feeling noodly. That said, a 243lbs rider will probably prefer something on the more solid end of the spectrum like a Chromag or RSD steel.
True. I am lucky to live about 5 miles from Cotic and have friends with both BFE Max and solaris Max bikes that I have ridden and I find them fine ( really comfy in fact ) on the smoother stuff but I can really feel them flexing when we get to the rocky decents that we are lucky to have in the Peak District.
@@thetick744 I felt the same way about Nukeproof Scout. At highspeed loose tech rear felt too flexy. Everywhere else it felt a lot more comfortable than my old bike. I am also similar to your height and weight.
While back Steve posted video about how riding position/technique should be different with modern bikes. So i tried riding more forward which put more weight on the front and less on the rear. In fact i had put more air in the fork and turn up compression. Riding/using the fork more and taking the weight off the rear made rear flex less and made it more comfortable without being overly flexible. It also allowed me to use my legs in more vertical manner which made it easier to take the shock. Scout does not have super long reach like Cotic or Chromag so on Cotic or Chromag i would assume you have more room to move around. With this change Scout went from reach feeling little long to reach feeling little short. Also even though my weight was a lot more forward, with slack geometry, it never felt like i was going to go over the bar.
Really happy to see you do this review, Steve! I know Chromags aren't your personal cup of tea, but thanks for finding one and giving it an honest assessment. I was on the fence big time between my Rootdown and a Middlechild. Ended up going with Chromag for the better overall build sheet, and I've been super happy with the bike. I think both companies have killer customer service, so there was no losing either way. I respect Alex and RSD a bunch for what they do as well.
Rolling on a 19' M/L Rootdown and I do agree with less-than-optimal compliance, I do ride it 27.5 with 3.0 tires which helps. Plan to run cushcore alternative in near future. Keep em' cominng Steve.
The rootdown is a rad bike, I've ridden a couple. But yeah, less than optimal compliance. Those big plus tires make a bike like that so much fun, and they definitely take the sting out.
I have to say, I'm not sure if Chromags are overpriced so much as higher end. I spent $3000 on my 2019 Rootdown, but it's really well specced. High engagement hub, a mix of NX and GX 1x12 components, a 170mm Fox Transfer dropper, 160mm Lyrik fork, SRAM Guide RE brakes (which I really like; they're powerful, modulate well, and haven't required any maintenance for well over a year), and a frame that I know will last forever! I know I could have gotten a less expensive bike, but everything on my Rootdown feels built to last and capable of growing with me as I become a better rider. And I rode my last bike for 20 years, so I expect to do the same with this one. That said though, there are so many amazing hardtails out there these days!
I ride nothing but hardtail and tore my full suspension down for parts. Perfect channel and always nice to see each of your videos.
You don’t need a full suspension when you know how to ride
Appreciate the honest review, Steve. It's refreshing to know your opinion is always candid even if it's your buddy's bike you're reviewing. Can't wait until your next adventure and/or HT review.
Sweet! Was waiting :) gunna watch when I get home. 🤘
Thats what I felt after switching to 27.5 they can rail corners fast and go down technical sections fast because you can put it where you want to I haven’t rode 29er since and I’m 6’... I do miss being able to climb and roll over stuff easier and faster tho
Great review.. I'm on my second wideangle now... Been a Great jack of all trades but not a pro at one. Have a light race xc fully for the fast twitch itch. 👍
I’m very fortunate that my Esker Hayduke takes both 29 and 27.5 plus. I switch wheel sets all the time and find great benefits for both. 29er makes a better long climber and does some decent stuff really nice. The 27.5 plus is like having a 100mm rear suspension, especially with tire inserts and supple tires.
Nice review, Chromag guys are awesome, and it's good of you to give their bikes some attention and yes they do make a solid bike. Has side by side spreadsheet comparisons of multiple manufacturers frames. Lots of fun there for the numbers geeks and a good site for explanation of geometry terms and impacts on handling. Keep up the good work. Hardtails rule!
Does that mean it's a little less comfortable in rocky parts ??
These are my dream bikes, I hope to get a frame someday. Need to save because they are not cheap.
I have to agree on the short stack. Upgrading forks to 160mm and 40mm renthals bars helped alot. I think their new frames have a shorter seat tube.
It's tricky because the specs seem to change every year. So a 2017 rootdown vs a 2018 or 2019 is going to ride different. I guess that's the flexibility they get by building their frames in small batches.
Living in the PNW, I love my Chromag. The harder and faster you ride it, the better it rides. The frame is compliant, but you have to really open them up and ride them hard. I have no problems keeping up with my squishy friends with my Lyrik equipped Rootdown. If you ride it like you'd ride a 150mm full squish, it feels great.
I agree. The harder you ride these bikes, the better they feel.
Great review! I know because I own a 2019 Samurai :) I can't disagree with anything you've said. Overall it is a GREAT bike. I normally ride with 2 Full reg squish and 2 e-full squish and I have no problems keeping up. I ride on Vancouver Island Mostly, but have taken this to Whistler. It rides in the GNAR every week. My biggest gripe is the weight, but I expected that. It is balanced, goes anywhere, rides almost anything and looked to me to be more supple than a Rootdown/Primer...… I do wish I had gone with the 29" wheels but I am 5'8" so didn't mind 27.5". I can run DHR/DHF 2.8"+ tires on this for refence, but does bring up the BB a bit more than I like. I recommend a 140Pike like your buddy. I run a 150 which I took down from a 160mm, but 140 is probably best. Best bike I have ever owned... It is overbuild for some, but I like a little bit more of the durability on my balance scale....
Thanks for chiming in and sharing your experiences Doug. It's rad to hear people from your neck of the woods and your experiences. I love riding squamish. I can't wait to get back there someday...
@@hardtailparty Squamish is Incredible! I like it better than Whistler if you only have a couple of days. When you make it up this way again and want a guide...…… Let me know.....
@@douglawrence4066 i like Squamish better than Whistler too, though I've only ridden the bike park in Whistler. I'll be back someday.
I have a Transition Throttle frame in medium if you're interested in testing it. It was a super fun bike, raced a bunch of enduros on it. I changed over to a Stylus recently.
That's super kind of you, thanks. I'm trying to focus on new/available bikes for 2021, but I've always been curious about that one.
Was looking forward to hearing your thoughts on this! Great video as usual.
Chromag seems to be on the "tall fork" wagon as they spec most of their complete builds at 150mm-160mm. I'm running my 18 Rootdown with a 150mm pike and am interested in trying out a 160mm fork on it to see how it behaves.
I was on the fence for a wideangle vs the stylus. The sales guy at chromag was a big proponent of the stylus so I bought it. It's a badass bike, although I do wish it was a little more compliant as I'm not doing super crazy stuff.
As always!!! a great review no less! thanks man!
Great review! I have an ‘18 Wideangle set up with a 150 Vorsprung Luftkappe. Currently rolling a 35mm stem and a 30mm riser bar, but am moving up to a 50. Mine feels short/tight whilst climbing, but great on the down, feels ( at least to me) to “grow” as I drop the post and point her down. But, having an inch’ish more reach should help. Anyways, great insights and as always great reviews!
Great review. Thanks Steve!
Nice review. If I were to buy another hardtail, I'd probably had followed your recommendation on the Banshee. I bought a 2016 Chromag Wideangle and while it rides great, it isn't supple as you mentioned. I had a 1998 Norco XC 853 bike that I should had kept and it was more supple than the Chromag.
Great review as always. I truly think the Banshee Paradox has ruined you in a good way. I am so glad I bought one in a size large and I am almost done ordering parts to complete my build. I really enjoy your channel and always learn a little something. Keep up the great content.
100%
Steve spot on review of the Samuria based on my experience on my 2018 Wideangle M/L. Frame build quality is top notch, geometry is very forgiving, but it is a beast (not what I'd classify as supple) when it comes to ride quality. My previous ride, 2014 Jamis Dragon Pro (Reynolds 853 steel, 27.5), had significantly better ride quality, but I do love the forgiveness aspect of the more modern geometry of the Chromag. Weighing in at 170 & at this stage of my life keeping my tires on the ground I've been searching for something with a similar forgiving geometry with my Chromag in a less heavy duty build. Maybe that's a Stanton Switchback?
I agent ridden a switchback, but I'd expect it to ride like a switch9er, which was nice and compliant.
Neat bike. I had to do a back-track when you passed that couple on the trail. They look familiar to me - I have ridden with an older couple who live near me in PA but make regular trips out to AZ. A little funny if it had been them.
I went for the Stanton Switchback instead of a Chromag 27.5 frame. After looking a lot on numbers etc.. The Chromags all got a very high bb compared to others, perhaps thats what you miss in terms of playfullness. Still waiting for my Stanton and cant wait to hold it in my fingers.
The stanton is the better bike. I have a feeling you're going to LOVE it.
Amazing review! If I buy a new Chromag as a result of watching this video, How can I give you credit and receive perhaps a nice discount at checkout?
Thanks Jaime. Chromag wasn't involved in this video or this review, but if you ever want to let a company know that my channel influenced a purchase, a simple email to them goes a long way. I hope companies learn to recognize the hardtail party brand and the quality I put into my work.
Over built Canadian monster :). Paradox or chromag for me. Thanks!
Great video as usual
Great review Steve! I'm going to rethink my Wideangle build now. This is probably too overbuilt for a lighter weight rider like me. The Middlechild in steel looks awesome, just not digging the curve in the seat tube as it might limit dropper post size.
The steel middle child feels almost identical to a chromag. It takes the small chatter out, but it's still a little overbuilt and not super supple. But I find the quality to be every bit as good as chromag (if not better), with more features and a cheaper pricepoint. The new middlechild is supposed to have a straighter seat tube for more dropper clearance.
Nimble 9!!
Have you heard of Marino bikes? Those bikes are handmade in Peru. You can choose all the specs and geo of the bike, sounds cool.
Yes. Looks cool. They're cheap.
Came to learn about Chromag, left with surreptitious advertising for Ragley. lol
I have zero affiliation with Ragley. I'm not advertising, just providing a good comparison. The ragley is the better bike in every way, yet people will still want the chromag more for brand recognition alone.
@@hardtailparty I did not meant to make it sound like an accusation, just a lighthearted joke.
Chromags look cool, as far as steel frames go. It's sad that they aren't as compliant as they could be, especially for the premium price. But of course I also still love my mmmbop, and I hope one day I can finish it.
This just makes me want to take a week off of work and drive down to Sedona haha
Once covid is over, come on down!
I hear you. I've been once, and will go again!
I hope you get to test a Moots Womble....I know it's a new bike from Moots, but I really think that it may be the type of bike you enjoy riding.
I've reached out to them a few times. No luck yet, but I'd love to try one.
Have you done a review of the nukeproof scout 275 or giant fathom?
Nope, I haven't been able to get either one in for review yet.
great vid as always, any plans to try out the new Giant Fathom 29?
I'd love to, but I haven't been able to get in touch with giant
"If you are a smasher" reminds me of the Hulk and the Agents of S.M.A.S.H. animated cartoons.
Ohhhh and their base was in Vista Verde, New Mexico and you are in Arizona... well not far off.
I have a Chromag Rootdown, and let me tell you man, I wouldn’t sell that bike for anything else.
A rootdown is a great bike.
Greetings...Just maybe Steve...Chromag don't send their Bikes to you, is You're as Usual Brutality Honest haha? I say this respectfully with no malice. As many do...I like your opinion and experience. As I'm on the heavier side this is a Frame I will definately consider in the Future. I did like the Wheelie at the End. All the Best for The New Year.
Awesome Review! Do you think you can get your hand on something less aggressive like the grand canyon?
I dreamed about Chromag for a long time, just last week reserved a Nimble 9 based on your review and this just seems to confirm that I made the right choice.
Side note, I would be really interested to hear how different the Chromags ride for a much larger person. But there's nobody else out there doing hardtail reviews of this quality. So can you gain 75 pounds and do this again? :)
Lol, I'm trying to lose 30. Maybe I'll have more luck gaining 30.
A heavier person will definitely get it to flex more. I weigh 180lbs all sorted up with my hip pack on.
The nimble 9 sounds just right for you. It wasn't super supple, but not quite as stiff as this. I think you're going to dig it.
The vertical stiffness of any hardtail frame has got to be orders of magnitude greater than any mtb tire or suspension fork. Can you honestly feel differences in compliance between frames? FYI, I am a full suspension guy - just asking out of curiosity.
Yes, i can definitely feel the difference. It's similar to feeling difference between a tire at 22 psi or 27 psi. Some people can't feel the difference but I can immediately.
I often run the same wheels and tires on my review bikes to keep things constant.
Years ago I had a 2012 samurai that was the most springy hardtail I had ever ridden back then. I can recall standing next to the bike and pushing down and in on a pedal and seeing the whole bb area flex. I loved that bike so much. Maybe they have got stiffer over the years with regs etc?
I see a lot of people measure frame flex that way: by putting all their weight on one pedal at 6oclock and bouncing on it. Almost all frames will flex like that, but that doesn't really represent real-world riding.
Did you ride a M or ML? My 29” Surface definitely corners better than it bounces over chunk, really good on the slick rock areas too. I got a squishy bike for bouncy rides, have quite a few years (and pounds) on you... nice review!
This is a ML
I'm not much for squish and don't need it where I ride...does anyone have experience riding rigid fork on the Wideangle?
You could set one up with a rsd 510. I use that on my taival and own a wideangle
How would you compare the samurai to the cotic bfe max? I watched your review on the cotic, and heard some great things about the bike, I'm just curious to see your opinion about these two bikes compared since I can't decide which one would be the better choice.
They ride completely different. I prefer the bfemax a lot more. Look at the geo charts, the bfe max has a much longer chainstay, a more compliant frame, a snappier zippier ride, and it is more of a joy to ride when you aren't pinning it.
Hello Steve, I was thinking of buying a second hand 160mm FOX 36 29" and shorten it to 120mm (which is the max my bike can take). Is it a stupid idea? Would I be better off buying a new 120mm rockshox reba for the same price? Thank your for your amazing reviews and for everything you teach us
Unless you're over 220lb, you won't need the stiffness of a 36 at 120mm of travel. I'd go fox 34
@@hardtailparty thanks a lot Steve
What do u think about a 29ner up front and 27.5 out back. Mullet? On this?Think it would help with the 160 fork on? With a larger riser bar?
It might be fun to try. I've tried a few mullet setups and I feel they really only shine on steep, twisty bike park trails.
@@hardtailparty I've only ran thinner in the back as of now. I ordered a 29ner. But I gotta build the wheel to match my custom stans barons. I have 29 wheels my genius came 29 and I flipped the chip and swapped the 27.5. That was a game changer. I run plus size as well,tubeless. So I just gotta get the wheel and build it. Blue nipples and presta valve. I do have the nips as they come in 100 packs lol
How do you distinguish between frame feel and wheel feel? Obviously a couple other components that come into play. I always ask myself this when I see you on those Zipp Moto wheels, or when you don't have them (as in her on the Samurai), must be different
You get a feel for it over time. In this review I used kenny's wheels, but I've ridden his wheels before and I know what they feel like. A stiff wheel feels different from a stiff frame.
@@hardtailparty Yeah I def trust your perception, you clearly know your way around a mountain bike... I will say about my Chromag, I love the frame feel, I def ride some fast trails that have punishing rocks strewn about, but the reason I love the bike is not for how it handles that stuff. If that's what I rode predominantly I would not ride a hardtail... I like my root down because it CAN do the punishing trails confidently, but really I just like it for more loamy stuff, rock slabs, and mildly chunky trails at speed it provides great return, damping, and planted feel (I also have a very stiff wheel set) anway... Total aside, thank you for turning me onto Banshee bikes too
Does Chromag owners needs to worry about their frames rusting inside? Because there's no paint inside those "steel" tubes to prevent/protect them from rusting. What are your thoughts?
If they're ed coated then you don't have to worry. If they're not then it's definitely a concern.
@@hardtailparty Nice🤙
Test the WHYTE 905 please 😁
Have you ever gotten to ride the RootDown ?
Yes, but i didn't film the ride. It reminded me a ton of the rsd middle child.
@@hardtailparty ok that’s good to know , which did you prefer the RSD midchild or the RootDown
You got the Grimm Doughnut eh?
Steve love the reviews. I am waiting for a Cotic BFE max. The Chromag seems like it would have been a good choice for me as well. Which trail did you ride the Chromag on?
The BFeMAX has a more snappy, supple, light ride, but longer chainstays.
@@hardtailparty Thanks, yes I am really looking forward to March when the Cotic arrives. I am a 230lb guy so needed a strong bike. I definitely told Cotic your review was key in my choice. Keep up the good work. Thank you.
Thanks, you have no idea how much that helps when my viewers share the hardtail party love. I really appreciate it.
Can you review a chromag doctahawk
Unfortunately Chromag doesn't send bikes out for review. I'm super interested in the actuarian
I hope you get a gimbal for Christmas !
Hardtails are bumpy and the footage reflects that. I've ridden with gimbals, it's awful. I'm filming on a hero 7 black with hypersmooth built-in stabilization. If you want to send me the new hero 9 with the max lens mod for Christmas, I promise to use it in future videos.
What trail is this?
Anyone know if my Santa Cruz Reserve wheels from a Bronson would fit on the Samurai?
New Chromag's have a lot shorter seat tube
Yay🤗🤗😀,rip it up
What trail are you riding?
Aerie, cockscomb, ground control, and outer limits.
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