With Crankworks in full swing comes the expected and unexpected introduction of models from companies looking to impress. Due to the explosion of plus size tires Rocky Mountain will be offering a traction seeking 27.5+ hardtail ready to crush trails. They’re also offering a full suspension youth bike that transforms for a growing child.
Rock past the break for the scoop…
photo c. Rocky Mountain
Having plus sized tires on a hardtail is making sense for many companies, due to the improved tire contact, bump absorption, and confidence. The Growler gets Rocky Mountain’s RMB 6061 hydro-formed tubing, 27.5+ tires, and a 120mm fork. Following a page from the 29er hardtail book, the XS and XXS frames will run 26+ tires instead of 27.5+ to fit smaller riders better.
Expect the Growler in three editions, the 750 (high-end), 740 (mid), and 730 (entry level). Each gets Boost spacing, a 1x drivetrain, 30.9 seat tube, threaded bb, zero stack head tube, and stealth dropper routing. Priced at $1,700 (750), $1,250 (740), $900 (730), it will be available late this month.
The Reaper brings full suspension to the youth market, and it can roll both 24″ and 26″ wheels. So don’t worry about your kid growing too fast, they’ll get more than one season out of it. It’s also available to purchase in both wheel options with varying components. It gets Rocky Mountain’s Ride-9 geometry chips, Form Alloy tubing, ABC pivots and BC2 bushing systems with grease ports for reduced wear and easier maintenance.
The Reaper’s geometry gets inspiration from the Thunderbolt and Altitude trail bikes. It gets 120mm front and 130mm rear shocks, and Sram’s NX 1×11 (26″) or Shimano Deore 1×10 (24″) drivetrains. It’s priced at $2,300 (26″), $1,800 (24″), and is available in early November.
