Try one with a coil, transforms the rear suspension since it was designed to run a coil really well. Also, the ohlins stx climbs even better than the vivid air and gives you more pop while still being very controlled.
Crazy timing - checked your channel yesterday to see if you had an Evil review, and what do you know, today it's here! Love your vids and like the direct comparison on trail you know well. Makes me trust you can focus on the bike! Cheers!
I just tested this at outerbike and agree 100% with you. Its a bike that does overly well at the stuff that you wouldn't expect a 160 mm bike to do. If you look at the suspension curves, they're super wonky but the end result just works. Only thing I found different than you is sizing, at 5 11 I felt the medium was cramped, the large fit beautifully.
Been waiting for you to take this bike out for ya test ride..... and really glad you gave it a great review I am waiting for mine to be built, here in the UK we have had a few problems getting hold of Fox suspension and that's what I'm waiting for at the mo.... I managed to get a test ride at ARD ROCK earlier this year and had such a big grin when I got back and just couldn't stop talking about it.... it was awesome
Those Evils, are intimidating when you see them in person. Kind of cool from a company that was as anti 29er as it gets and Dave W convinces them to build one with his Delta design and they are instantly making some of the sickest 29ers out there.
Heh nice to see you back and still ripping it, one of my favourite channels, would love to see you try the new 2018 Enduro on the same run especially with the changes - torn between this and the Evil and always loved the fact you ride the same run just not with the spesh yet
Another great video! Question - Granted, all bikes featured on the channel have had their own feel that is directly related to the suspension characteristics, but what do you do exactly to set up each and everyone of them to have a level playing field? Do you maintain a specific sag setting, rebound clicks that you maintain across the board? Tire PSI? Curious to know what you do on bike setups to avoid having one suspension type be awarded an edge over the rest. Love the channel and always look forward to every new video! Keep em' coming!
Great question. I'll likely address this in another video. I spend between 5-20 minutes setting up a bike before I take it out. Some set up quicker than others. Some things get sorted out after a few minutes out on the trail... the reality is, even my personal bikes are getting tooled with and adjusted weeks and months after my first ride.... Great question for sure, thanks!
MTB yumyum Thanks for the response Jason. Long time follower and always look forward to each and every video. You're the best! I asked about set ups because you generally experiment with the climb switch open on both the fork and shock so figured you set them up similarly. I recently did a demo and took three bikes out and found myself setting them up the same without thinking much of it and because of the limited time I had with them. With all of the different suspensions going around and that you've tried I'm genuinely curious to know how you approach each and every bike as they all tend to have different personalities so look forward to the video in the near future and all the best! Keep shredding my friend!
Miguel, I recently purchased a new bike, like this week!!! I demo'd the bike with the DPX2 rear shock and bought the bike with a Float X2.... When I demo'd this bike I fell in love. Popped off everything, super stable at speed, very firm and supportive suspension but plush when I needed it to be... I could wait to get out and ride my new bike. Well, I set it up the same as when I demo'd it with the different shock. Within the first minute coming down Jacob's Ladder yesterday I knew I had set it up incorrectly.... the X2 made the bike feel dead... zero feel or pop... just blaaaaaah. This happens from time to time on demo's and I quickly make the adjustments needed. I guess I should include it in the video upload but I edit it out... anyway. The bike I purchased and fell in love with on the demo was terrible on my first ride... I was supper bummed and have made some adjustments... figure it will take a few more good rides to get it good and another several rides.. weeks to get it dialed. Thanks bro! Its a great time to be a mountain biker!
MTB yumyum Gonna go out on a limb and say you got the new Hightower LT. Bummer about the new bike, but hope things have been better after a few adjustments, been thinking about replacing the X2 Shock on my Bronson as well because of the same characteristics like a dead feeling. Congrats on the new bike and hope to see a new video about it and the troubles of setting it up. Cheers!
Nice review. I think it is good you rode the bike on the usual trail it’s the only way you can make true comparisons. It also shows the bike isn’t just a one trick, ‘big hit’ pony. I bought one to use a bike park/trail centre/Enduro bike and it has ended up being so much more. You were all over your buddy without even trying😉
Totally... I was a bit taken back by this ride... thought it was going to be a boring big bike... I was way wrong... great all around'er for dudes who want something to go big at the bike park!
I went over a downed telephone pole on accident. Didn't have time to pull up as it was in very tall grass while I rode up on it (going downhill). I just went right over it as if it wasn't there on this bike. best bike I've ever owned...
Love the reviews. Was very curious to hear your thoughts on the Evil Wreckoning and agree with the comparison to the Yeti 5.5. Have you ever had a chance to review any bikes from Niner? Would be interested to hear your thoughts. Again...great job.
Glad you liked it. The Wrecker is the real deal as far as big bikes go! No Niners up to this point... might get a ride on some in the spring though! Thanks!
That’s a nice bike for sure, almost bought one. Ultimately I bought the New Trek Slash. Didn’t like the tire clearance on the Rear of the Evil. Both killer big bikes!
As others have mentioned in the comments section, you are very positive about the bikes, which is fair enough - at the end of the day, you get to ride some great dream bikes - but I was just wondering how it compares to specific bikes. You previously owned or rode a Hightower, and test rode the LT variation, so I’d be interested in knowing how it compares to one another? Thanks. I hear all the time about how nice it rides, but the previous problems they had with manufacturing the frames and warranty has made me think of them in a negative light. I’m hoping they’ve sorted this now. Anyway, I’ve just recently came across your channel too and I’ve subbed. It’s actually your positive attitude that made me sub. Keep up the great channel!
Chris, the Wreck feels a little bigger than the Hightower LT. They're both really stable at speed but the HTLT is maybe just a little more poppy! Both are excellent! Thanks bro!
good review, I'm riding a 2015 intense tracer, similar to your nomad. Its good to hear that the bike climbs well. I think I'm going to sell the tracer and pick one up as a second bike for the bike park, and Whole Enchilada, etc. At 5'8" it sounds like the medium is the way to go, would you size down to a small for any reason? A lot of riders at 6 foot ride medium.
I had a 2016 tracer and loved it! I'm 5'10" and rode a large tracer, then took out the medium nomad with Jason and it was one of the few bikes I would downsize to medium on. It did seem noticeably shorter than my tracer though. So I'd guess the medium would fit you just fine
how did you feel about the slack seat tube angle and short reach? clearly an amazing bike, but the reach and STA dimensions are on the old school side of things it seems.
Great review as usual!. Quick question, upon lookig at the geo numbers, I was shocked to see that the 2017 enduro 29 and the wreckoning have almost identical geometries. I am assuming that the differences in behavior described by all reviewers they have to do with the suspension kinematics. What are your thoughts on that?? Cheers!
Yeah, the GoPro doesn't show how much rocks and stuff are on the trails but you're right, they're not overly technical. That's the only down side to the trails I use for my test ride and review videos... there real just isn't any overly technical sections of trail in this area...
@MTB yumyum Hi there, im watching your videos from day 1 and i have couple suggestions. I think that you should also make videos about equipment on particular bike that you testing, geometry of that bike and things like that... Also if that is possible test some lover price bikes like Marin (rift zone 3) is good looking bike And i would really like to see some Transition bike (Smuggler and Sentinel for 2018) or all of them :D Cheers and keep up with good work !
LOL - Jay, unless you'd like a Giant or Specialized, in Australia, you ain't getting a test ride. I bought the SB4.5 from your reviews! Hence my intense following and commenting on most posts where a bike may apply to me. We have guys like you to make the decision!
Can you explain why? (I have friends that own both or have ridden one vs the other in ownership, and I already know their POV, but would like to see if your thoughts line up)
I feel like the Hightower LT climbed a bit better, it just fit me a little better and to be honest, there's not a water bottle cage on the medium wreckoning.... that's tough for me as most of my rides are under 2 hours and can be supported with a 21oz water botter so I don't have to take a pack with me. The Hightower LT is also a bit more lively and quick... "turn in" is faster on the LT. The Wreckoning just doesn't change direction as quick... it still has plenty of pop and fun in it but not as much as the Hightower LT. I would guess the LT with a 160mm fork and X2 out back would change it to be more like the Wreckoning. The Wreckoning as I recall was more stable at speed and suspension felt bottomless....
Great video Jay. I think the hardest decision in the mtb world at the moment would be which long travel 29er to get. Apparently Alex Chamberlain didn’t like the Wreckoning at all and got an Enduro. Hard to test ride them all. Do you think you’d get a chance to test the Norco Range 29er Jay?
Dean Herde not sure Alex Chamberlain has ridden the Wreckoning as he has been injured and off a bike for a while. He did have an Evil before, I think it was an Insurgent maybe he didn’t get on with that which is why he was a bit dismissive of the Wrecker.
Eckythump I have ridden the wreckoning, the following, and the insurgent. The bikes are good on flat terrain but suffer from insane brake jack when it gets steep. Plus they have way too slack of a seat tube for taller riders. I don’t hate them. I️ just think there are better options. My opposition gets even stronger when I here everyone praising it. I just don’t understand why people like it?
Dean Herde, I've not ridden the 2018 Enduro but the 2017 that I rode has been my least favorite long travel 29er to date... The Wreckoning was incredible everywhere and I had a lot of fun riding that bike. I like the Wreckoning better than the Sb5.5 and Rocky Mountain Instinct BC... All that said, I prefer long travel 27.5 bikes over the wagon wheels. At 5'8" I just feel more in control on a 27.5 bike when things start getting really gnarly, steep and fast...
MTB yumyum thanks Jay. It was great to watch and definitely made me want to try a long travel 29er as I haven’t ridden any of them. Been very happy with my Yeti SB6c and Pivot Mach 6 so far.
Can you do a quick compare and contrast between this: Yeti SB5.5, Pivot Switchblade, and your Nomad? Following the comment below, I don’t think you need to be more critical, but comparing and contrasting similar bikes you’ve ridden would provide some good additional decisional info. You’re doing great work man, keep it up! (I have a Switchblade 29er by the way)
I love these reviews! I think I’ve narrowed it to this bike or HT LT! (I have a 160 fork to use) It will be a second bike (have 4.5c). Want longer travel but also something I can take on a long hauls occasionally (when visitors are riding my bike). Live in Rockies, bigger guy at 225. Opinions welcome please!!!
Yeah, I could go either way... I loved the LT but I guess if I already had a SB4.5 I might go for the bigger bike in the Wreckening... the SB4.5 is a more capable bike then the suspension numbers let on... good luck!
+Thelma Viaduct my buddy Doug, who I ride with at least once a week, rides and intense primer. It's a size large but maybe I'll take it out and do a video anyway....
MTB yumyum thank you, , I am almost 5’11 was testing large SB 5.5 and I fell in love with it, just perfect fit, too bad have no chance to test ride it, Evil is a bit cheaper but little bit heavier, Wreck is just sexy as hell, probably I will go w Yeti since I am getting small Yeti Beti for wife, hope will find some deal.... Anyway thank you for your superior work on your channel, keep them coming Was just thinking, r u planning to test ride long travel bikes from Cannondale?
Have racing bike from Cannondale factory FS-i and I love this rocket, will be excited to see what they have now, thank you again and keep up good work!
Ive ridden both the 5.5 and the wreck. Hands down the wreck. The 5.5 is more of a trail bike and the wreck is much more playful and capable. It climbs great too. Do whatever you can to test ride it. They have a demo tour.
Good morning! I've really enjoyed watching your reviews. Have you considered going back to your year old rides, redoing testing on that same (or new model) ? Give us a fresh perspective. I know opinions change after riding different frames, tire sizes, and suspension travel. Keep up the fantastic videos! (EVIL The Calling soon????)
Thanks for the review. I plan on unloading my DH Bike and replacing it with a long travel 29er and the EVIL is near the top of my list. Just wondering if you’ve had a chance to ride the Norco Range 29er? And if so you’re thoughts? What is the heat long travel 29er you’ve ridden? Thanks again!
I've seen them and my buddy Landon tried some... that's just a lot of extra weight on the 29er... To be honest, the Maxxis DHR II 2.4 WT isn't too heavy and large volume tire... I really like it for a 29er!
Is the first time i see you going faster than your friends, braking. Either he has confidence issues with the bike he was riding or u was way more faster than him.
hahaha okay, I'll bite. 2018 Rocky Mountain Element, 2018 Cannondale Synapse, 2018 Rocky Mountain Instinct, 2018 Santa Cruz Nomad coil. I reserve the right to change the line up at any time. hahaha Thanks, that was fun! I should also mention, I recently picked up an Ibis HD4... planning on replacing the Element with the Instinct as well...
You seem to really like all the bikes you test. For once I wanna hear you say "Man that bike sucked! " It's true though..it's hard to find a bad bike nowadays.
Haha, that's the most consistent type of criticism I get about my channel. It's difficult because I'm riding bikes that are all really incredible. The things that I would say I don't like about them are things that are personal to me and my Trails or my type of riding. Which doesn't accurately reflect the actual bike should someone want to buy it. I try to leave that stuff out and just talk about the reality of the bike. I hope that makes sense.
You guys wouldn't believe the crap I take from my friends and riding buddies.... everyone hassles me for not being more critical but the true is, the things I might not like about a particular bike is because it's not the sort of bike I'm looking for... not a real knock on the actual bike.... hope that makes sense?!
MTB yumyum I do recall you pointing out certain things on bikes, like bad stock tire choice as an example. Other than the those types of things that are easy to swap, the bikes are just really good. Comparison vids of similar bikes are helpful too..like that Nomad video. But ultimately it's up to people to demo for themselves.
+groffm haha, the actual Trail goes left about 50 yards before the fence. It's just a pain to go all the way over there so everyone just goes straight down to the fence. Ridiculous, I know!
haha people tell me this all the time and I'll give you the same response I give my buddies and other who hassle me about not being more critical... have you had a chance to ride the Wreckoning? If so, what what negative thing do you have to say about it?! The reality is, it's not the bike for me... but it's an incredible bike! Of the bikes I've recently tested in the last 3 months the top bikes for me would be, Pivot Mach 6, Ibis HD4 and the Rocky Mountain Instinct. I loved the new Hightower LT but not looking for a bike right now... same is true with this Wreckoning!
Hey. Can you get hold of a Whyte s150 to review? It has some awesome reviews and it would be good to get your opinion compared to other mid to long travel 29ers (i have 2017 Hightower). www.mbr.co.uk/reviews/full-suspension-bikes/whyte-s-150-review
It's different. I'm still getting used to the HD4... it's an interesting bike because it has less travel but feels equally as stable and confident at speed. Also, I feel like it has a bit more pop to it than the Firebird. Bother are big bikes that like to be ridden hard and fast... Climbing is about the same... maybe a slight edge to the HD4
I would love to but most bike shops and demo' trucks load their inventory with all the high end bikes... I'd love to demo some entry level or more affordable bikes but they're just not available to me. Thx!
Matthew Jones Pretty much the same... Just purchase a lesser model build spec of the bikes he reviews. Pretty much all the bikes he's reviewed cheapest models will still be 3 grand plus.
Matthew Jones, unfortunately most of the bikes bike shops put in their demo fleet are the higher end bikes... like Trevor Bohnsack said, you can buy most of these bikes in a less expensive build or even in alloy to save a little money. Good luck buddy!
Local Evil Dealer owned by Satan. LOL.... I listen to AC/DC highway to hell when I do my downhill ride (No stop sign, speed limit and nobody's gonna slow me down.) I've been your new subscriber for a few months and been watching all you latest reviews. But Manny Fonseca's right, sometimes you gotta be anal on some of the bikes.
Try one with a coil, transforms the rear suspension since it was designed to run a coil really well. Also, the ohlins stx climbs even better than the vivid air and gives you more pop while still being very controlled.
Wow, that's incredible. The bike already felt so planted and stable while remaining to be very poppy. Very cool bike!
Crazy timing - checked your channel yesterday to see if you had an Evil review, and what do you know, today it's here! Love your vids and like the direct comparison on trail you know well. Makes me trust you can focus on the bike! Cheers!
haha nice, glad it worked out! A lot of people have been waiting for this one.... I had a blast on it!
I just tested this at outerbike and agree 100% with you. Its a bike that does overly well at the stuff that you wouldn't expect a 160 mm bike to do. If you look at the suspension curves, they're super wonky but the end result just works.
Only thing I found different than you is sizing, at 5 11 I felt the medium was cramped, the large fit beautifully.
At 5'8" I felt just right on the medium. Really cool bike!
Yeah, makes sense, I was comparing against your buddy who you said was 5'10".
Been waiting for you to take this bike out for ya test ride..... and really glad you gave it a great review I am waiting for mine to be built, here in the UK we have had a few problems getting hold of Fox suspension and that's what I'm waiting for at the mo.... I managed to get a test ride at ARD ROCK earlier this year and had such a big grin when I got back and just couldn't stop talking about it.... it was awesome
Nice, congrats on the new bike! I thought it was really good!
Those Evils, are intimidating when you see them in person. Kind of cool from a company that was as anti 29er as it gets and Dave W convinces them to build one with his Delta design and they are instantly making some of the sickest 29ers out there.
Couldn't say it better myself... great story too! The bike is a legit big bike that's still super fun!
To bad the bolts never stay tight
Awesome video as usual! Love the Evil bikes!
First ride on an Evil... it won't be my last!
Heh nice to see you back and still ripping it, one of my favourite channels, would love to see you try the new 2018 Enduro on the same run especially with the changes - torn between this and the Evil and always loved the fact you ride the same run just not with the spesh yet
Glad to be back riding on UA-cam... thanks bro!
....cool, well now that you are maybe you'd give the 2018 Enduro 29 on Jl for that overall comparison
Another great video! Question - Granted, all bikes featured on the channel have had their own feel that is directly related to the suspension characteristics, but what do you do exactly to set up each and everyone of them to have a level playing field? Do you maintain a specific sag setting, rebound clicks that you maintain across the board? Tire PSI? Curious to know what you do on bike setups to avoid having one suspension type be awarded an edge over the rest.
Love the channel and always look forward to every new video! Keep em' coming!
Great question. I'll likely address this in another video. I spend between 5-20 minutes setting up a bike before I take it out. Some set up quicker than others. Some things get sorted out after a few minutes out on the trail... the reality is, even my personal bikes are getting tooled with and adjusted weeks and months after my first ride.... Great question for sure, thanks!
MTB yumyum Thanks for the response Jason. Long time follower and always look forward to each and every video. You're the best!
I asked about set ups because you generally experiment with the climb switch open on both the fork and shock so figured you set them up similarly. I recently did a demo and took three bikes out and found myself setting them up the same without thinking much of it and because of the limited time I had with them.
With all of the different suspensions going around and that you've tried I'm genuinely curious to know how you approach each and every bike as they all tend to have different personalities so look forward to the video in the near future and all the best! Keep shredding my friend!
Miguel, I recently purchased a new bike, like this week!!! I demo'd the bike with the DPX2 rear shock and bought the bike with a Float X2.... When I demo'd this bike I fell in love. Popped off everything, super stable at speed, very firm and supportive suspension but plush when I needed it to be... I could wait to get out and ride my new bike. Well, I set it up the same as when I demo'd it with the different shock. Within the first minute coming down Jacob's Ladder yesterday I knew I had set it up incorrectly.... the X2 made the bike feel dead... zero feel or pop... just blaaaaaah. This happens from time to time on demo's and I quickly make the adjustments needed. I guess I should include it in the video upload but I edit it out... anyway. The bike I purchased and fell in love with on the demo was terrible on my first ride... I was supper bummed and have made some adjustments... figure it will take a few more good rides to get it good and another several rides.. weeks to get it dialed. Thanks bro! Its a great time to be a mountain biker!
MTB yumyum Gonna go out on a limb and say you got the new Hightower LT. Bummer about the new bike, but hope things have been better after a few adjustments, been thinking about replacing the X2 Shock on my Bronson as well because of the same characteristics like a dead feeling.
Congrats on the new bike and hope to see a new video about it and the troubles of setting it up. Cheers!
haha, good guess. Actually went with the Ibis HD4! Fireball Red. Check my instagram!
Nice review.
I think it is good you rode the bike on the usual trail it’s the only way you can make true comparisons. It also shows the bike isn’t just a one trick, ‘big hit’ pony. I bought one to use a bike park/trail centre/Enduro bike and it has ended up being so much more.
You were all over your buddy without even trying😉
Totally... I was a bit taken back by this ride... thought it was going to be a boring big bike... I was way wrong... great all around'er for dudes who want something to go big at the bike park!
The vivid air is such a good shock!!!
Totally. Think this was my first time on a vivid... amazing shock!
I went over a downed telephone pole on accident. Didn't have time to pull up as it was in very tall grass while I rode up on it (going downhill). I just went right over it as if it wasn't there on this bike. best bike I've ever owned...
very nice review in real conditions, not only words!!!!!
Thank you! Stick around and check out many of the other test ride & review videos...
Still waiting for the Firebird vs Nomad review 😀
Try to get your hands on the evil following. I love it. Perfect to ride just about anywhere
That's what I've heard... looking forward to riding one!
MTB yumyum if you ever come to ride socal, you can borrow mine. It's a large though
Another fun one to watch. Thanks. ESI chunky or super chunkys on your Nomad? How you like em?
I've got the ESI race grip on my nomad and my element... the chunky's look nice but the super chunk... no thanks. Those are ridiculous.
I seartcht for so long to watch sutch a Reviev, but i cant fide you on the mainside.
You have made a amazing work.
Thank you and welcome. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss an new video! Glad you found us!
Another sick bike to check out! Great review man.
Thanks bro... rad bike for sure!
Love the reviews. Was very curious to hear your thoughts on the Evil Wreckoning and agree with the comparison to the Yeti 5.5. Have you ever had a chance to review any bikes from Niner? Would be interested to hear your thoughts. Again...great job.
Glad you liked it. The Wrecker is the real deal as far as big bikes go! No Niners up to this point... might get a ride on some in the spring though! Thanks!
That’s a nice bike for sure, almost bought one. Ultimately I bought the New Trek Slash. Didn’t like the tire clearance on the Rear of the Evil. Both killer big bikes!
Rad, yeah these big bikes are fun!
As others have mentioned in the comments section, you are very positive about the bikes, which is fair enough - at the end of the day, you get to ride some great dream bikes - but I was just wondering how it compares to specific bikes. You previously owned or rode a Hightower, and test rode the LT variation, so I’d be interested in knowing how it compares to one another? Thanks.
I hear all the time about how nice it rides, but the previous problems they had with manufacturing the frames and warranty has made me think of them in a negative light. I’m hoping they’ve sorted this now.
Anyway, I’ve just recently came across your channel too and I’ve subbed. It’s actually your positive attitude that made me sub. Keep up the great channel!
Chris, the Wreck feels a little bigger than the Hightower LT. They're both really stable at speed but the HTLT is maybe just a little more poppy! Both are excellent! Thanks bro!
Your mtb slang is on point bruh!! Good vid as always. I got the same nomad as but am thinking of a Hightower
Dude, thanks! If it's a 29er you're after, the Hightower is an excellent rig! The new Rocky Mountain Instinct is money too!
MTB yumyum ya man a 29r with a less travel and a raked out 160 fork like trail peak and ratboys. Climb with ease and smash the rough.
good review, I'm riding a 2015 intense tracer, similar to your nomad. Its good to hear that the bike climbs well. I think I'm going to sell the tracer and pick one up as a second bike for the bike park, and Whole Enchilada, etc. At 5'8" it sounds like the medium is the way to go, would you size down to a small for any reason? A lot of riders at 6 foot ride medium.
I haven't had a chance to sit on or ride a small... the Medium felt good though!
I had a 2016 tracer and loved it! I'm 5'10" and rode a large tracer, then took out the medium nomad with Jason and it was one of the few bikes I would downsize to medium on. It did seem noticeably shorter than my tracer though. So I'd guess the medium would fit you just fine
how did you feel about the slack seat tube angle and short reach? clearly an amazing bike, but the reach and STA dimensions are on the old school side of things it seems.
It didn't bother me at all... thought it was a great bike!
Your ride style fits the Evil The Calling moreso than The Wreckoning. I can't wait to see you on one. :)
Dude, I can't wait to ride the new MB! Probably the bike I'm most looking forward to!
MTB yumyum
Any plans to ride the following MB in the near future? Trying to decide between a SC HT and the Evil Following MB.
Another good review but for my trails anything over 130 rear would be a waste, which is why I picked the bike I got.
Yeah, a 130mm bike on these trails is a lot of fun.. get's bucked around a bit on Jacob's but everything else 130mm is about right!
Great review as usual!. Quick question, upon lookig at the geo numbers, I was shocked to see that the 2017 enduro 29 and the wreckoning have almost identical geometries.
I am assuming that the differences in behavior described by all reviewers they have to do with the suspension kinematics. What are your thoughts on that??
Cheers!
Totally. The delta link was amazing!
Any comments on technical climbing? Your climbs seem to be more fire road, at least visually? Any singletrack and technical climbing?
Yeah, the GoPro doesn't show how much rocks and stuff are on the trails but you're right, they're not overly technical. That's the only down side to the trails I use for my test ride and review videos... there real just isn't any overly technical sections of trail in this area...
@MTB yumyum
Hi there, im watching your videos from day 1 and i have couple suggestions.
I think that you should also make videos about equipment on particular bike that you testing, geometry of that bike and things like that...
Also if that is possible test some lover price bikes like Marin (rift zone 3) is good looking bike
And i would really like to see some Transition bike (Smuggler and Sentinel for 2018) or all of them :D
Cheers and keep up with good work !
Thank you for the kind words and support! I'll see what I can do!
Awesome👌🏽 love the fact that your able to review these direct to consumer bike brands .. I can’t get out to demo any in Sydney 😔
Bummer dude... how do you go about buying a bike without a demo?
LOL - Jay, unless you'd like a Giant or Specialized, in Australia, you ain't getting a test ride. I bought the SB4.5 from your reviews! Hence my intense following and commenting on most posts where a bike may apply to me. We have guys like you to make the decision!
That's a shame... Glad I was able to help and hope you're enjoying the Yeti!
Would love to hear your take on a Mondraker 2018 Foxy
Great review! I'd love to own a following!
Totally, can't wait to ride the Following!
Sweet on the Evil
Does it feel simular when you lock out your rear shock climbing
no lock out on this shock... just climbs great wide open!
Now you have to try the Following MB!!!!
Dude, can't wait to ride the new MB!
Was the rear shock a dpx2? I've heard the dpx2 itself is supportive and plush somehow.
Rockshox vivid air actually
Matt, vivid goodness!
Ah that makes sense as well! I bet that is adding to the great support feel.
Dude, this bike was crazy supportive through everything.... just bottomless and rides high in the travel... love me some DW!
Which would you pic between the Wreckoning and the High Tower LT ???
Personally, I'd likely go with the Hightower LT... they're both incredible though... not a bad choice between them!
Can you explain why? (I have friends that own both or have ridden one vs the other in ownership, and I already know their POV, but would like to see if your thoughts line up)
I feel like the Hightower LT climbed a bit better, it just fit me a little better and to be honest, there's not a water bottle cage on the medium wreckoning.... that's tough for me as most of my rides are under 2 hours and can be supported with a 21oz water botter so I don't have to take a pack with me. The Hightower LT is also a bit more lively and quick... "turn in" is faster on the LT. The Wreckoning just doesn't change direction as quick... it still has plenty of pop and fun in it but not as much as the Hightower LT. I would guess the LT with a 160mm fork and X2 out back would change it to be more like the Wreckoning. The Wreckoning as I recall was more stable at speed and suspension felt bottomless....
Nice bike
How does it compare to the Firebird or HD4?
Great video Jay. I think the hardest decision in the mtb world at the moment would be which long travel 29er to get. Apparently Alex Chamberlain didn’t like the Wreckoning at all and got an Enduro. Hard to test ride them all. Do you think you’d get a chance to test the Norco Range 29er Jay?
Dean Herde not sure Alex Chamberlain has ridden the Wreckoning as he has been injured and off a bike for a while. He did have an Evil before, I think it was an Insurgent maybe he didn’t get on with that which is why he was a bit dismissive of the Wrecker.
Eckythump I think he said he’d ridden one and didn’t like it, and he just got a Specialized Enduro.
Eckythump I have ridden the wreckoning, the following, and the insurgent.
The bikes are good on flat terrain but suffer from insane brake jack when it gets steep. Plus they have way too slack of a seat tube for taller riders.
I don’t hate them. I️ just think there are better options. My opposition gets even stronger when I here everyone praising it. I just don’t understand why people like it?
Dean Herde, I've not ridden the 2018 Enduro but the 2017 that I rode has been my least favorite long travel 29er to date... The Wreckoning was incredible everywhere and I had a lot of fun riding that bike. I like the Wreckoning better than the Sb5.5 and Rocky Mountain Instinct BC... All that said, I prefer long travel 27.5 bikes over the wagon wheels. At 5'8" I just feel more in control on a 27.5 bike when things start getting really gnarly, steep and fast...
MTB yumyum thanks Jay. It was great to watch and definitely made me want to try a long travel 29er as I haven’t ridden any of them. Been very happy with my Yeti SB6c and Pivot Mach 6 so far.
Can you do a quick compare and contrast between this: Yeti SB5.5, Pivot Switchblade, and your Nomad?
Following the comment below, I don’t think you need to be more critical, but comparing and contrasting similar bikes you’ve ridden would provide some good additional decisional info.
You’re doing great work man, keep it up!
(I have a Switchblade 29er by the way)
The Switchblade is a rad 29er and one of my favorites ever! I'll remember to talk about comparison bikes in future videos. Thanks bro!
MTB yumyum your videos helped me decide on the Switchblade. I narrowed down my search based on your feedback, rode the Switchblade and was done!
Awesome, glad you found a good one!
Would you buy it in a heartbeat?
I personally prefer 27.5 long travel bikes but this think is an absolute ripper!
I love these reviews! I think I’ve narrowed it to this bike or HT LT! (I have a 160 fork to use) It will be a second bike (have 4.5c). Want longer travel but also something I can take on a long hauls occasionally (when visitors are riding my bike). Live in Rockies, bigger guy at 225. Opinions welcome please!!!
Yeah, I could go either way... I loved the LT but I guess if I already had a SB4.5 I might go for the bigger bike in the Wreckening... the SB4.5 is a more capable bike then the suspension numbers let on... good luck!
Been waiting for this one. Extra Legit haha
haha it will likely be next weekend or the following but it's not more than 2 videos away... promise!
Can you review an Intense Primer if you get chance please, ta 👍
+Thelma Viaduct my buddy Doug, who I ride with at least once a week, rides and intense primer. It's a size large but maybe I'll take it out and do a video anyway....
Cheers mate
nice review and now I am on the edge Wreconing vs Yeti SB 5.5, whats your opinion on the, thank you, keep up good work!
Not a bad bike between the two... I'd personally go Wreck!
MTB yumyum thank you, , I am almost 5’11 was testing large SB 5.5 and I fell in love with it, just perfect fit, too bad have no chance to test ride it, Evil is a bit cheaper but little bit heavier, Wreck is just sexy as hell, probably I will go w Yeti since I am getting small Yeti Beti for wife, hope will find some deal.... Anyway thank you for your superior work on your channel, keep them coming
Was just thinking, r u planning to test ride long travel bikes from Cannondale?
Cool, the 5.5 is a great bike! Hope to ride some cannondale bikes in the spring!
Have racing bike from Cannondale factory FS-i and I love this rocket, will be excited to see what they have now, thank you again and keep up good work!
Ive ridden both the 5.5 and the wreck. Hands down the wreck. The 5.5 is more of a trail bike and the wreck is much more playful and capable. It climbs great too. Do whatever you can to test ride it. They have a demo tour.
alright LT or wreckoning?
I'd personally go LT... they're similar but I thought the LT might climb a little better... Both great bikes for sure!
Jason, how about demoing a insurgent next
Would love to ride the Insurgent... Evil bikes are difficult to come by in my area..
Good morning!
I've really enjoyed watching your reviews. Have you considered going back to your year old rides, redoing testing on that same (or new model) ? Give us a fresh perspective. I know opinions change after riding different frames, tire sizes, and suspension travel.
Keep up the fantastic videos!
(EVIL The Calling soon????)
Hey! Great idea... it's been awhile... would love to get back out on a 5010?!
Title said 2017 but yum yum said 2016 which one is it?
Good question... I'll text Kelty and get that sorted out. Thx!
This was a 2016... I'll change the title, thx!
Thanks for the review. I plan on unloading my DH Bike and replacing it with a long travel 29er and the EVIL is near the top of my list. Just wondering if you’ve had a chance to ride the Norco Range 29er? And if so you’re thoughts? What is the heat long travel 29er you’ve ridden? Thanks again!
Wreckoning or SB 5.5?
Hightower LT ;) haha between the SB5.5 and the Wreck... I'd go Wreckoning!
MTB yumyum Tnx
Grab a orbea rallon 29 and a Occam 27.5. test those out
My buddy Zach recent picked up a Rallon... planning on taking it out soon!
Let's do it this week!
Yeah, buddy!
Any 29er out there with a 2.5 or more tire?
I've seen them and my buddy Landon tried some... that's just a lot of extra weight on the 29er... To be honest, the Maxxis DHR II 2.4 WT isn't too heavy and large volume tire... I really like it for a 29er!
Interesting...Pivot grips.
Hum, didn't even notice... sorry bro!
I cant consider anything smaller than a xl im 6'3 245
I was talking evil vs. Locking out your nomad
Ah, yeah. I would say the Wreckoning climbed better than my Nomad 3 even locked out... it just felt really efficient!
Your friend was slowing you down. The Wreckoning wanted to go faster!
haha the Wrecker is a sick bike for sure!
Is the first time i see you going faster than your friends, braking. Either he has confidence issues with the bike he was riding or u was way more faster than him.
That's his 3rd or 4th ride in over 2 years.... just getting a feel for the trail again... Rad bike though for sure!
It’s a good job I don’t have much money, I would own about 20 bikes by now lol
haha me too! Although I think I could be happy with just 4 bikes.... maybe ;)
MTB yumyum which 4?
hahaha okay, I'll bite. 2018 Rocky Mountain Element, 2018 Cannondale Synapse, 2018 Rocky Mountain Instinct, 2018 Santa Cruz Nomad coil. I reserve the right to change the line up at any time. hahaha Thanks, that was fun! I should also mention, I recently picked up an Ibis HD4... planning on replacing the Element with the Instinct as well...
You seem to really like all the bikes you test. For once I wanna hear you say "Man that bike sucked! " It's true though..it's hard to find a bad bike nowadays.
Haha, that's the most consistent type of criticism I get about my channel. It's difficult because I'm riding bikes that are all really incredible.
The things that I would say I don't like about them are things that are personal to me and my Trails or my type of riding. Which doesn't accurately reflect the actual bike should someone want to buy it. I try to leave that stuff out and just talk about the reality of the bike. I hope that makes sense.
MTB yumyum Makes total sense.. just messing with you. Really enjoy watching your reviews.
I just had the same thought while watching this video....that you pretty much like every bike you ride, haha.
You guys wouldn't believe the crap I take from my friends and riding buddies.... everyone hassles
me for not being more critical but the true is, the things I might not like about a particular bike is because it's not the sort of bike I'm looking for... not a real knock on the actual bike.... hope that makes sense?!
MTB yumyum I do recall you pointing out certain things on bikes, like bad stock tire choice as an example. Other than the those types of things that are easy to swap, the bikes are just really good. Comparison vids of similar bikes are helpful too..like that Nomad video. But ultimately it's up to people to demo for themselves.
Are they ever going to put a "Real" exit to Jacob's Ladder, or is it always going to be a crawl out thru a fence everytime??! Lol
+groffm haha, the actual Trail goes left about 50 yards before the fence. It's just a pain to go all the way over there so everyone just goes straight down to the fence. Ridiculous, I know!
MTB yumyum Nice!! Haha ueah i always wondered that but just figured it was a good turn off point...on way to pick up and demo a sentinel!! So amped!!
I’m still waiting for a negative review. Every bike is great . Lol
haha people tell me this all the time and I'll give you the same response I give my buddies and other who hassle me about not being more critical... have you had a chance to ride the Wreckoning? If so, what what negative thing do you have to say about it?! The reality is, it's not the bike for me... but it's an incredible bike! Of the bikes I've recently tested in the last 3 months the top bikes for me would be, Pivot Mach 6, Ibis HD4 and the Rocky Mountain Instinct. I loved the new Hightower LT but not looking for a bike right now... same is true with this Wreckoning!
Nomad 2018 climb slow compare to the pivot mach 5.7
is it 2016 or 2017
Joshua Majerczak he says it about 6 times. Its a 2002
2016, I'll change the title... my bad!
Lol. Don't steal someone's off a truck.
Hum, yeah... probably don't do that👍😁
Hey. Can you get hold of a Whyte s150 to review? It has some awesome reviews and it would be good to get your opinion compared to other mid to long travel 29ers (i have 2017 Hightower). www.mbr.co.uk/reviews/full-suspension-bikes/whyte-s-150-review
I've not seen any Whyte bikes here in the states...
looking at a medium and I'm 6'0 tall..............:/
Evil bikes you can just leave the shock in open and ride. Pretty unreal.
totally, still climbed great and for a 160mm bike.... loads of fun!
wreck or 5.5
Hightower LT.... hahaha between the two, I'd go wreckoning!
MTB yumyum so how good is the HD4 compared to the firebird
It's different. I'm still getting used to the HD4... it's an interesting bike because it has less travel but feels equally as stable and confident at speed. Also, I feel like it has a bit more pop to it than the Firebird. Bother are big bikes that like to be ridden hard and fast... Climbing is about the same... maybe a slight edge to the HD4
You only review the highest end bikes. Most of these are unaffordable for most . Why dont you grab a hardtail or a lesser build-up for a review?
I would love to but most bike shops and demo' trucks load their inventory with all the high end bikes... I'd love to demo some entry level or more affordable bikes but they're just not available to me. Thx!
It would be awesome if you could do more high value bike reviews. I'll probably never buy one of the bikes you review.
Matthew Jones Pretty much the same... Just purchase a lesser model build spec of the bikes he reviews. Pretty much all the bikes he's reviewed cheapest models will still be 3 grand plus.
Matthew Jones, unfortunately most of the bikes bike shops put in their demo fleet are the higher end bikes... like Trevor Bohnsack said, you can buy most of these bikes in a less expensive build or even in alloy to save a little money. Good luck buddy!
Local Evil Dealer owned by Satan. LOL.... I listen to AC/DC highway to hell when I do my downhill ride (No stop sign, speed limit and nobody's gonna slow me down.) I've been your new subscriber for a few months and been watching all you latest reviews. But Manny Fonseca's right, sometimes you gotta be anal on some of the bikes.
haha that's awesome, thanks!
First!
What do you prefer Hightower LT or Bronson
You say Dude way to often..