Neuhaus Metalworks Hummingbird Review - The Most Supple Bike I've Ridden
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- Опубліковано 9 жов 2022
- The Neuhaus Metalworks Hummingbird is Nick Neuhaus' dream trail bike. He designed it to shine on his local trail, Hummingbhird. This bike is handbuilt in Northern California by Nick, and features a steel frame, 3d printed yokes, tube-in-tube routing for the dropper, and a killer geometry. This bike is incredibly special. Forgive my difficulty finding the right words, but this bike is truly magical. Learn more about this bike or place your order here: bit.ly/3UrDDEi
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![ОРБАН приехал к ПУТИНУ и "отчитался" о поездке в Киев 😁 [Пародия]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/_0ukDovOWq8/mqdefault.jpg)
Nick, the frambuilder and owner of nuhaus metalworks, just sent me the following clarifying information:
"Each frame uses unique tube sizes to maintain the feel of the bike across the size range. The seat tube yoke also changes with each size to further maintain consistency of feel across sizes for the intended rider size and weight. All of this was determined through FEA analysis and not only takes rider weight into account but also looks at each tube length to make sure we hit our target deflection. This all means that a 250lbs rider on an XXL will have the exact same experience as you or a 90lbs rider on and XXS."
This is one of the many differences between a small builder like Nick and a mass produced frame from a factory.
Also, I don't know how my camera got pointed down so much. Apologies for that.
I’m that 250 lb rider :-) I’m 6’6” and I have a Solstice and they even went with larger diameter tubing on mine, which is unheard of for steel. But it totally works. It’s so smooth. It doesn’t feel lethargic at all. And the weight is still reasonable.
Breakfast, coffee, and some Hardtail Party-great start to the week!
My hummingbird finally shipped. Should be here next week! Rewatching this video in anticipation!
You're in for a treat, congrats.
I have been on a Hummingbird since June. One of the first things I thought was "wow, this is smooth". The rear end just absorbs the chatter. It's an amazing bike. I weigh 200 pounds + depending on gear and ride a ML+ and it has never felt too flexy. It has never felt flexy, it just feels smooth (and I have ridden some too flexy bikes). I have mine with an MRP Ribbon SL, which IMO suits the bike perfectly. It's stiff enough and light enough to crush. Nick really nailed it. I think it's THE standard by which all other hardtails should be measured.
Another brilliant review of a great bike from Steve👏🏻
Really appreciate the levels of detail and description in all of hardtail party’s reviews.
The hummingbird is definitely on my wish list now
What an insightful video, even for those presently not necessarily in the market for this marvel of a bike.
It is great to have a tangible, concrete example of a specific standard to look up to; getting all the geo & design right on such a hardtail is no mean feat.
Gratitude for sharing so much valuable insights in this review Steve.
Cannot say enough good things about Neuhaus Metalworks. Fantastic bike, Nick knows what's up!
I am currently riding a singlespeed full rigid Hummingbird in Southern California. Its geometry climbs better than my SC Chameleon (v.7) and can do the same descents with just as much confidence. I am on this bike 6-7 days a week loving the trails in my backyard, amazing ride.
Hey there- what socal trails would you say are the most rewarding on a hardtail?
So you got yours with sliding drop-outs?
@@jeffsharp4982 Nick can build it either with an EBB or a sliding dropout
@@hardtailparty does yours have the EBB?
@@jeffsharp4982 No, I have the regular T47 threaded bb. I didn't plan on running mine singlespeed, so I didn't opt for sliding dropouts.
Sounds like a really great bike. Also your trails looks real fun.
Well my hardtail shopping days are over. Wanted to get the bike you made but when I was ready to buy it wasn't available anymore and now it is. Oh well, I'm actually really happy with the specialized fuse 27.5 I just got a few days ago. I do plan on building it up over the winter. Gotta say, it's thanks to your channel that got me to look at hardtails again, and you are 100% correct about them, they are so much fun to ride.
Another great review on a steel. Thanks!
Steve, I appreciate as always that you appreciate both boutique bikes that move the craft of frame building forward, as well as bikes that maximize value for the consumer. I think a healthy bike manufacturing ecosystem is best with both. This bike is definitely beyond my current budget, but I appreciate that work of this quality is being done.
Right on, very impressive design and execution! I think the price is perfect for what it is.
I started saving for this bike at 9:51 of your video. You described me and my riding style to a T when talking about how this bike rides and the style of riding that makes the bike shine. Thanks… now, gotta see if they ship to APOs…
Sounds like a bike built for me. 😍
If I was looking for a steel frame, I'm glad to know there are a couple small builders I can go to.
Great review Steve! Even though I'm not in the market for another Hardtail it's always fun to learn something new on your reviews
It's amazing how a single person with camera on youtube can disrupt how people address Hardtails, keep on the great work ! 💪
Thanks for watching and commenting you have been selected among my lucky winners kindly test me on telegram now to claim your package 🎁..
I bought a bike with Steve's help. So, while I am not in the market for a new bike, I check to see if he posts a new video almost everyday. Not only for the education that comes from it, but also to see what is new, what is hot, what is not and to have my GF learn a thing or two about bikes, and how to ride certain elements we encounter on the trails. Hardtail Party is so much more then just hardtails, but they still are the stars of the show.
Thanks Steve
I'm Oldschool and love steel hardtails. I remember tang*yuck* it can't compare to fresh orange juice. This bike sounds awesome
Would love to try that bike up here in the PNW.
Just asking myself, “When is Steve’s next video gonna drop?” And here it is!
Back around 2007 - 2008 I got one the early 26" Cotic Soda frames from eBay. I swapped out the components from my Soul. It was astonishingly comfortable and quick on smooth singletrack, but when I took it to a Cotic weekend in The Peaks (Derbyshire U.K.) the Soda was downright scary and out of control. It was just so noodly.
The most righteous word you said in this review is; don’t write it, unless you’re prepared to buy it. I was going to buy a con a unit X and modify it, and then I rode the Kona sutra LTD, that was a bit over my budget, but I’d rather wait and get the right bike then get a bike right this moment that I will regret at some point
Thanks for the great review. That sounds like a really fun bike and to me somewhat similar to what Fairlight Bikes claims their Holt model is up for. Any chance we´re getting a Fairlight Holt review from you as well in the future? Might also fit your latest bikepacking focus reviews as well.
I don't have one on the way yet but I'd love to review one.
Gotta love a gushing review! Nick's sizing charts are so wonderfully and insanely nuanced, that alone tells you how much he puts into his frames. Any thoughts on how this compares to a Nimble 9?
That's the sort of thing I save for my bike consultation service over on Patreon.
I definitely take your point about taking a hardtail over a Fullsus. Simple, easy, poppy fun, not much fuzz with the suspension setup, no rear suspension service or pivot swaps needed. With its 2.6ers my Trek Roscoe 7 already feels like it's just soaking up everything to begin with. And I doubt that I'll find anything in my local area where this bike is the limit - it already feels like overkill on many trails.
It's pretty crazy how good these new hardtails are. I agree with you on the 2.6 size tires, so much grip and it helps to smooth out the trail some.
@@buckroger6456 my Big Al has room for 2.6 maybe even 2.8, I'm always planning to experiment with wider tires (currently on 2.35/2.4), should probably just go for it 😅
@@ssmtb I have a Big Al and I will be putting 35i wheels with 2.6 tires on it this season (hopefully). I think this upgrade will make a world of difference, riding here in the Arizona chunk.
Steve, in all your videos, I have never heard you rave about a steel frame like this one. You even gave you wife’s opinion as a lighter weight rider. I’m in the 150 weight category of experienced riders. I had to go full custom Ti from Seven Cycles to have a supple frame. I have steel frames too and they are not overbuilt. There’s something about the compliance of a modern Geo steel frame that keeps people like me “stuck on steel”
Curious about your thoughts on this bike versus the Manzanita? Love your channel, keep up the good work!
That's the kind of thing i tackle in my bike consultation service over on Patreon. I'd be happy to help you over there. Patreon.com/hardtailparty
Hmm looks like nick updated the geo a little. I hope taking down the chainstays all the way to 420 (from 425) wasn't overkill. Kind of thinking about bikepacking applications with a hummingbird.
You live and breathe this. Congrats on a super review!
This bike is incredibly special and won my 2022 hardtail of the year award
@@hardtailparty I know. I saw that too! I’ve reached out to them since watching. I have been lining up something very similar. Quirk Superchub…
@@hardtailparty Did you try the titanium? How does it compare (other than more cash)?
@@robinmacandrew103 not yet.
@@hardtailparty you’re not gonna direct me one way or another on here are you?!
The gravel bike market desperately needs a reviewer like you. Problem is, there is too many roadies, myself included, who just dont know enough about off road riding technique, and how different geometries can affect feel over different terrain or riding styles.
Not to say roadies are not skilled riders, but obviously not in the way mountain bikers are. Most gravel bike reviews are pretty generic -- "this is the groupset it has...", and maybe a quick mention of geometry.... but no real understanding of why I might want one bike over another, or which geometry might be better suited for different terrains.
I'm a pretty crud mountain biker (terrible handling skills, especially on loose rock and sharp turns where I wipe out), but I enjoy your channel because I am an enthusiast of bike frames and the different materials, and like to know why one geometry might be better than another. i am partial to titanium (own several), but I would like a nice hand made steel bike one day to see if may ride a bit smoother than titanium.
Thanks for the kind words. Most mountain bike reviewers just focus on specs room it's the easier way to "review" a bike.
Have you seen Path Less Pedaled ?
Probably the perfect MTB for me, I'm 6'1", but I'd go with the 5'11" sizing. Just need the Cardinals to win next weekend.
Did they win
You had me sold, I immediately googled to check it out - I will just have to say I won't have one anytime soon 😐.
It's worth saving up for
I think you would like it even more with a 51 offset fork. Hardtails with a 66 degree and up Headangle and longer stems are better suited to a longer offset. I have a similar ti frame and did try 44 and 51 and the longer offset works better for the fast handling of this bike.
I prefer the shorter offset, but to each their own.
Love this bike and a perfect review. I can easily see this complementing my '19 Chameleon..... it's only money, right?!
I love the 2019 chameleon, but this thing is next-level. Lots of overlap with where they excel, but the ride feel on this doesn't even compare.
Thank you for the excellent review. Given how supple the frame is, do you think it may not have enough stiffness to work well for bikepacking, when it may be loaded with 30-35 lbs in gear and consumables in addition to the rider? For example, the Salsa Timberjack is quite stiff unloaded, so it can work better under bikepacking loads. And what are your favorite hardtails for bikepacking?
I do my bike consultation/recommendations over on Patreon. I'd be happy to help you over there.
I think this will be plenty stiff for bikepacking.
great candidate for a wireless dropper.
Make a review of the budget GT Avalanche, please!!
I’d like to see you get ahold of a Fairlight Holt Reynolds 853/631 Steel XC bike- it has a similar modern geometry.
Me too
I think he likes this bike.
great useful comments!...what's the largest tires that would fit?
see the first look video
Would this be good for bikepacking ?
Great review, thanks. What is the most aggressive/technical Sedona trail you would ride this on?
$1950, unless you're able to get us an HTP discount.
At the time of filming it was $1800. I think I'll just refrain from mentioning prices moving forward.
I've been following your channel for a while and have been pondering a hardtail build. I'm in the northeast and have been on mtb's since early 1980's. My current bike is a 2020 SC Tallboy which currently covers everything I ride. I recently got a fat bike, a Trek Farley 7, and it reminded me what you put into the pedals comes out the wheel. Nothing has resonated with me as much, that you have reviewed, as the Neuhaus Hummingbird. I have been checking out the website and the geo charts. I love the attention to detail Nick has. Would you call the Hummingbird your "desert island bike"?
It depends on so many things. I do my bike consultation over on Patreon if you ever want to pick my brain.
Thanks
How does it compare to a Nimble 9?
What stem top cap is that ???
You must own this bike now? Seems like everything you need and want in a fun trail HT.
What brand and material are the handbars on this bike? They look like they are Titanium.
Great review video! I definitely agree; It is a special feeling bike, and I thought so after only riding it a couple of minutes. I recently rode a 38 mile cc race on my Sirius S5 single speed, and was really feeling beat up over the last several miles. I'll bet I would feel much less fatigued riding the Hummingbird on longer rides like that. I wonder if it would be too flexy as a SS? I wish it had sliding drop-outs because I'd like to see.
You can order one with sliding dropouts. I doubt it'd be too flexy as a ss, but it would be softer than a super stiff frame.
I know Nick (Neuhaus Metalworks) was running his Hummingbird with an EBB for awhile and had no issues with it (the BB or it being too flexy). Fortunately, steel is not as soft as aluminum and the EBBs hold just fine as long as you get the right one. I have ridden mine (with a chain tensioner just to see what it was like) and actually preferred it over my stiffer frames for singlespeed use. I found that the smooth feeling just created a better over all ride feel. But, I mostly a geared rider these days. I saw recently that he just added sliding dropouts as an option for the Hummingbird - if that's what you are looking for.
@@hardtailparty Just remembered, the day after you let me ride it, I messaged Nick to compliment him on what a great feeling frame it was. Here is what he said regarding flex / riding SS; "Each frame has a slightly different character but it's important to recognize that what gives the soft feel doesn't necessarily equate to torsional flex that would hinder singlespeed usage. The 3D printed parts are designed in a manner that controls flex in a calcualated manner. My personal hummingbird is set up singlespeed and works incredibly well while being easy enough on the body to ride all day."
I am running mine SS with an EBB and there are no issues with flex. While it feels very compliant with regards to trail feedback, it doesn't seem to respond as much to pedal input. I am sure it does, but compared to my other bikes I don't feel any noteworthy loss of power.
I've been hunting for nice grey bars. What are those? They kind of look like the funn ones
See the first look vid for bike specs.
Is this frame compatible with 27.5+?
Another grear review. You say is more smooth then the sherpa 853. Now wonder is the Soltice then about as smooth as the Sherpa?
No, the Solstice is as smooth as a Hummingbird. But, it's a Solstice.
Do you have plans to review the titanium version?
Yes, eventually.
What bar is this?
How do you like it vs the Neuhaus Solstice that you reviewed?
Totally different geo
I'm wondering how the Hummingbird would work for bike packing given how supple it is. Will it handle the extra weight without feeling too flexible?
Yes
I'm thinking of the switch9er Reynolds steel HT frame, it costs about $1100 not including shipping. I know you've tried to Reynolds steel. Also, what about someone who is 156lbs?
See my switch9er review
@@hardtailparty Ohh yea, i've seen your review about 3 times. Love it! That is essentially what made my decision.
Am I going to regret life decisions if I take this bike to the dirt jumps or ride the (mostly modest) drops, gaps, and technical features on my mostly flat/rooty east-cost trails? I feel like this is for me, but I don't want to trade fun on the mellow for sketch on the technical.
I've been getting a lot of people lately who want a fun green trail bike that's also great for dj, drops, and double black diamond bike park lines. I don't know of a single bike that does all those things extremely well. In like manner, I don't know of a car that's ideal for twisty canyon roads and high clearance off-road rock crawling. A Porsche is great on the twisty roads, and a jeep is great rock crawling, but not vice versa.
I recommend reaching out to Nick at neuhaus to determine if this model or a solstice would fit your riding best. Or you could become a patron and we could work together on some bikes that I think would suit you well. Patreon.com/hardtailparty
Hey Steve idk if you mentioned the name of that trail or if you're willing to share the name of it but I'm trying to branch out more in Sedona this year. Traveling up from the valley it's nice to watch you ride the Sedona trails because it gives me ideas on trails to ride.
We have so much tourist and trail traffic already that I choose not to post which trails I'm on. There are so few trails left that dont have a lot of traffic, nothing personal. If you ever come up for a group ride, maybe I'll take you on a few of them.
@@hardtailparty no worries man I totally get it. I was up there this last weekend and was thinking the same thing. Hopefully you're able to get weekday rides in because I can only imagine that the weekend traffic gets really old after a while.
I for one prefer the simplicity of a good hardtail, better trail feel and less maintenance overall. I would rather spend a bit more on a great hardtail, than buy a full suss that will require maintenance every year and maybe pivot bearing replacement and shock rebuild. It would be an interesting opportunity to see what the cost difference between an HT or Full Suss over a say 5 yr period. (I am one who can't afford a new bike every year or even every other).
BTW, you described me to a T, over 50 and a wheels on the ground kinda guy
Well as someone who rides a lot and I do mean a lot. I have a 2012 giant fullsus, and have had nearly zero issues with it. Last year I finally had to have the rear shock rebuilt, and all my bearings and pivots are still like new. I will say that I take good care of my bikes and clean them pretty often. I always make sure to check everything out before each ride as well.
That whole keeping the wheels on the ground thing is the only reason you think ht are better. Any drop bigger than a curb is a non starter for sustained descents imo
What helmet are you wearing? Where are you riding? And, what do you think about the Solstice?
I have a dedicated review video of the solstice. Check it out.
@@hardtailparty ,....Ok, I will check it out. What about your helmet?
it's a 5 year old specialized ambush helmet. No longer available sadly, as it is my favorite helmet.
What do you mean by supple?
What bb are ur running with those cranks
See the fist look video
Geometry differences aside, how would you rate the suppleness of the Solstice in comparison?
What do you mean by supple?
@@snoutysnouterson frame compliance, bump absorption.
This review made me wonder if I needed a new project and then I looked up the price of this frame. $1,950! That build would run $4500ish. That's a lot for an XC/Trail bike for the average enthusiast.
I guess it all depends on where your priorities lie. Fresh squeezed orange juice vs tang. If MTB is your third or fourth hobby, it probably doesn't make sense. If you eat, sleep, and breathe MTB, it's a no-brainer to me.
@@hardtailparty that’s a great point. I’m also just cheap and want this type of performance out of my Honzo ST frame :)
@@Bcskier44 I simply haven't found a mass produced bike that comes anywhere near this ride feel. To find a frame that rides this good, it requires someone who really knows their stuff, who is willing to rethink every aspect of the bike's design and who isn't willing to cut corners. Nick has done just that. The frame is the heart and soul of a bike. It amazes me how many people will buy an inexpensive frame, then put $3-4k of good parts on it, only to have the lower end frame hold it back.
Instead of looking at it as a high price tag, think supporting the individual who took a risk to start his own bike company, who is pursuing his passion to go above and beyond to make incredible hardtails in his garage. Unlike Kona or others, you're not paying $700 for a frame that cost them $85 to produce; you're paying an individual to handcraft a work of art that you'll enjoy for years to come. Your money isn't going toward paying pros for shredding, or pink bike ads or Instagram contests. Your money is going directly to a creative builder who is taking time out of his day job to create something truly special for those of us who love this sport with a passion.
Not everyone will be able to afford this bike, and not everyone can justify the price, but that's why tang will always be cheaper than fresh squeezed orange juice.
@@hardtailparty amazing content and insight as always. Curious will you ever review a custom built Marino, with your knowledge of geometry and experience would be great to shine a light on them or steer people away from them.
Now the frame is $2200!
66.5 HA, 120mm travel, compliant ride suggests that it's essentially a boutique Cotic Soul. Would that be fair?
Nope
@@hardtailparty Wasn't intended as a put down, I had a Soul and it was great. The geo numbers and intended use seemed similar, that's all.
I'm not offended. The soul is a great bike, I had one too. This bike rides totally different than my old soul though. Geo feels very different too.
I'm a 6ft+ (185cm) guy and I only weigh 123lbs/56kg, sounds like it would only flex on me when doing jumps
It'd be perfect for you (at your weight)
Haha...riders from the 90's...yep...93' Kona Explosif... Totally agree...the majority of steel frames are now over built... All the more noticeable for us lighter riders.... Great review...👍🍻
How heavy is this bike?
see the first look video
I am 71 years old so I want a supple bike but considering what you said, this bike might be too flexy for 318lbs and 6'4" body.
Call Nick.
Steve heard back from Nick about the larger sized frames. Read the earlier comments.
I’m 6’6” and 250 lbs and Neuhaus nailed it for me. I’m sure they’ll nail it for you too.
They even custom built wheels for me using extra strong components, including e-bike rims!
They thanked me for giving them something interesting to work on. They’ll probably like your challenge too :-)
See my pinned comment at the top of the comments section.
@@ncalebrobinson how good, what a bunch of legends
5 months ago video says $1800 frame
Below in comments, someone notes $1950
As of March 27th 2023, he wants $2200 for a frame....
Prices are rising on every single bike. I'm reluctant to mention prices in my videos, except that it's a pretty important factor when weighing the differences between bikes.
@@hardtailparty right on for responding, bro
It's sad how much bike (and food and shipping, and everything) prices have hiked in 5 months. Bikes seem to have taken a huge jump, that's for certain.
@@hardtailparty ya economy is all messed up. Pair that up with COVID still have delays on manufacturing/industrial and, well it's understandable
I went into the shop that sells Neuhaus today. Yep, $2200. But in addition to Steve's review the shop owner walked me through the frame and I had huge respect for it. Spend the money on the frame, not the parts-especially the one's that wear out anyway. A decent build on this will be $5k-still cheaper than most FS bikes but hand built. Think about that.
Soooo, what you're saying is "Don't ride this bike......if you hate fun!"
But soooo expensive
You're paying an American a living wage.
YOU HAVE THE LANUGUAGE BUT I DO NOT KNOW IT TOO MANY WORDS I DO NOT KNOW
great review as always.
I am purchasing a vasago radimus titanium small. I can't afford to build it up quite yet if you're interested in reviewing it let me know I'll send you my email address if not if not continue the great work thanks.
Thanks for the offer. I need a med.