Charge Bikes is updating their entire off road lineup for 2016, switching from 29er wheels to 27.5+ for all non-fat versions of the Cooker hardtail. It’s shown above being ripped by brand ambassador Rob Jarman…get past the short intro, it’s a highly entertaining video. Pics with Q&A below…
BIKERUMOR: What did you have to change on the frames?
NICK: It’s a ground-up redesign for this tyre size. We are using it on all of our Cooker range for 2016 – replacing the 29 wheel sized models. We have been riding various dedicated 27 Plus prototype configurations for the past 8 months. Put simply we have a shorter rear end than this year’s 29er, obviously more clearance, and a slightly longer front end.
BIKERUMOR: What’s max tire size?
NICK: Depending on tyre brand 3.2 is about the limit, but we tested a lot of tyres and we are convinced that to keep the nimble feel, whilst still having the increased grip and rock / root absorbtion that the 2.8 Inch tyres that we are speccing on the entire range from Cooker Zero at $1000 USD right up to the $3K + Titanium model. We also have a standard sized BB width and rear end axle width so it means that replacement parts are not tricky to get hold of and the price points of the bikes are sensible.
BIKERUMOR: When will the website be updated with the 27.5+ models?
NICK: June 20th
BIKERUMOR: Will you still have the Cooker Max 26″ fat bikes?
NICK: Yes. We still have two (updated) models of Fat Bike for 2016.
Photos are of the same bike ridden in the video, which is likely preproduction since the actual bikes don’t start shipping until September 2015. Of course all this begs the question: Should werewolves wear helmets?
