Ibis is launching aluminum copies of its latest carbon fiber Ripmo and Ripley trail bikes. The AF (aluminum-framed) versions sport the same travel, geometry, features, and aesthetics as their carbon counterparts in a more affordable — and probably slightly heavier — package.
We covered the latest carbon Ripley and Ripmo models when they launched just over a year ago. Those bikes received major updates at the time, with straighter top tubes, revised geometry, in-frame storage, the option to run mixed wheels, and more. Now, all those updates carry over to the aluminum-framed versions, bringing the same performance at more affordable price points.
Ibis Ripmo AF Details
Like the carbon version, the new Ripmo AF does away with the aesthetically polarizing curved top tube in favor of a straight one. It sports the same 150mm of DW-link rear travel paired with a 160mm fork. Ibis offers it in five frame sizes with size-specific everything. The Small and Medium frames come with a dedicated mixed wheel setup, while the Extra-Medium, Large, and XL frames come with 29-inch wheels. A flip chip in the lower shock mount allows riders to switch to a 27.5-inch rear wheel on the larger sizes.
The Ripmo AF also gets the Ibis STOW (Snacks, Tools, or Whatever) in-frame storage compartment and comes with two bags for tools and snacks. The frame has standard internal cable routing with updated cable ports, along with molded rubber protection on the chainstay and downtube. Geometry-wise, the Ripmo AF is exactly the same as the carbon Ripmo, which is a great thing given its capability and versatility.
Facts
- S/M MX, XM-XL 29” Wheels
- 160mm front travel
- 150mm dw-link rear travel
- 2.5” tire clearance
- Aluminum front and rear triangle
- Available in five sizes S-XL, fits riders between 5’ and 6’7
- Available with a RockShox Super Deluxe rear shock
- Complete builds starting at $3,749
Details
- Slack 64.5 head angle
- Steep seat tube angles that vary by frame size
- Threaded BB (73mm BSA)
- ISCG 05 compatible with a removable adapter
- Internal cable routing, featuring updated cable ports
- 26oz water bottles fit on all sizes
- In-frame storage system with included Stow bags
- Molded rubber frame protection
- IGUS bushings in the lower link, bearings in the upper link
- Metric 230x60mm shock, coil compatible
- 220mm max rotor size
- Boost spacing
Colors
The Ripmo AF comes in Metal AF (raw) and Rose Dust.
Builds and Pricing
Compared to the carbon version, the Ripmo AF is significantly more affordable. The frame and shock go for $2,449, which is $1,350 less than the carbon frame. It comes in two builds, starting with Deore at $3,749 and climbing to $4,299 for Eagle 90. The builds are mostly the same, with the primary differences being the drivetrain and brakes. For comparison, the least expensive carbon Ripmo is the Eagle 90, which is priced at $6,749.
Ibis Ripley AF Details
Like the Ripmo AF, the Ripley AF is essentially identical to its carbon counterpart. It has 130 mm of DW-link rear travel paired with a 140 mm fork. It gets the straight top tube treatment plus the addition of the Ibis STOW in-frame storage compartment (plus two bags). The Ripley comes in five frame sizes, including Extra-Medium, again with size-specific everything.
Unlike the Ripmo, all sizes come with 29-inch wheels front and rear, although it does have a flip chip to switch to a mixed wheel configuration if you want. The geometry chart is exactly the same as the carbon model, which makes sense given that it’s already a winning formula.
Facts
- 29” Wheels – mullet compatible
- 140mm front travel
- 130mm dw-link rear travel
- 2.5” tire clearance
- Aluminum front and rear triangle
- Available in five sizes S-XL, fits riders between 5’ and 6’7
- Available with a RockShox Deluxe rear shock
Details
- Threaded BB (73mm BSA)
- ISCG 05 compatible with a removable adapter
- Internal cable routing, featuring updated cable ports
- 26oz water bottles fit on all sizes
- In-frame storage system with included Stow bags
- Molded rubber frame protection
- IGUS bushings in the lower link, bearings in the upper link
- Metric 210×52.5mm shock, coil compatible
- 220mm max rotor size
- Boost spacing
Colors
The Ripley AF comes in Burnt Orange and Blue Velvet.
Builds and Pricing
As expected, the aluminum-framed Ripley sells for quite a bit less than the carbon version. The AF frame and RockShox Deluxe Select+ shock will cost you $2,449. The complete builds start at $3,499 for Deore and top out at $3,999 for Eagle 90 Transmission. It appears the drivetrains are the only differences between the two options. For reference, the most affordable carbon Ripley build is the Eagle 90 at $6,249, although that bike comes with Fox Factory suspension.
Ibis Ripley AF and Ripmo AF: Availability
The new AF versions of the Ripley and Ripmo are available now and shipping worldwide starting today. You can find them at your local Ibis dealer or through various online retail partners. You can learn more about the new bikes on the Ibis website.
