2021 Evil Wreckoning Review | Not an Average Enduro Bike 😳

#evilwreckoning #evilbikes #mountainbikereview
The 2021 Evil Wreckoning is the ultimate freeride, downhill, enduro machine. This bike is an animal and a great option for someone looking for a one bike quiver. This bike is very comparable to the new 2021 Norco Shore, Nukeproof Mega, Santa Cruz Megatower, and Scott Ransom
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[@loamtroopers]

I forgot to include, I rode the Wreckoning in the LOW setting. Not the X-LOW. I’m sure the extra low settings would make it really hug the ground and rip even faster 🤘

[@DnBQemist]

Got my Following V3 a few weeks ago and am blown away at what Evil has done with their bikes. They need more recognition for their work

[@loamtroopers]

I agree 100%

[@robert.barker]

So glad you did this man, love your reviews! I was this close👌🏼 to ordering a Megatower but couldn’t find the black in stock and ended up ordering the Wreckoning instead. Was worried I might regret not getting the Mega just because I didn’t like the colours so it’s good to hear they’re pretty comparable bikes🤘🏼

[@loamtroopers]

Very comparable! You made a good decision 🤙

[@broccolirob8268]

Great review, and riding. I got a large v3 Wreckoning about 6 weeks ago . The big take away for me was they didn't go crazy with the Geo numbers. It's a little bit longer and slacker but it's not a plow bike. It corners so well and is not a handful to move around for a bigger bike. You can ride it on mellow terrain and doesn't feel like a sled. I've done some technical climbs on it and that rear end just sinks in and gets so much traction. My bike weighs 34.5lbs but carries the weight well. My only complaint,a minor one, is the rebound knob on the shock is really difficult to get at. I agree that this bike has great pop, especially with a coil. I'm very happy with it. I have a feeling that Megatower may be up for sale soon loamtrooper ;)

[@loamtroopers]

Very well put! It definitely manages its own weight. And the geo is spot on for its intended riding. Even with the X-Low adjustments, it could get EWS ready really quick!

[@skatefarmerftw]

Height and size did you go for?

[@broccolirob8268]

@@skatefarmerftw 6'1. Large. Perfect fit

[@j84dangerboy]

Nice review. And thanks for the comparison to the Santa Cruz. I just converted over to an Evil Offering from a Tallboy and love it!

[@loamtroopers]

Thanks dude! Was it the 2020 Tallboy? What differences are you feeling?

[@j84dangerboy]

Loam Troopers MTB Yeah it was the 2020. Basically what you said. Evil bikes just feel more playful and fun. The Tallboy was great as well and super capable, just got addicted to the feel of evil bikes.

[@loamtroopers]

That’s killer! I’m glad to hear that

[@mikeh9949]

Hi Jeff, how did you find the sizing between the to? I normally ride a Large and am a bit thrown off by Evil's suggested sizing of 6'0-6'4. I'm 5'11. Unfortunately I don't have any local dealers nearby to test fit.

[@MrSterlinghayes]

I’m a long time wreckoning v1 owner and love it. I was pumped to get a new wrecker but can’t wait till March. Probably going megatower. Sounds like I can’t go wrong either way?

[@VelkePivo]

I have a Following MB which I love. Recently put a PUSH coil on it and it's yet another level of amazing. I ride it mostly at bike parks and there's nothing it can't handle. I'm thinking hard about the new Insurgent MX for a second bike. I wonder how you'd like the Insurgent MX vs the Wreckoning.

[@loamtroopers]

That Following sounds rad! I’ve been wondering about the Insurgent myself… that mullet set up would be really interesting. I would imagine very similar qualities, with the Insurgent being more on the party side of things. Which is a whole lot of party because the Wreckoning was a good time! Hoping to try one out this year

[@desmondc3000]

Stumbled on your channel looking for Megatower reviews. You do a good job. My last 3 bikes have been ibis. Thinking of switching to a megatower from the hd4. Now I’m thinking the wreckoning.....RM altitude or stumpy evo as well. A lot of great choices. Sounds like the megatower is still a strong contender. One of the reasons I was thinking of leaving ibis was how high the DW sits. Makes for great climbing, but isn’t always the plushest descending.

[@loamtroopers]

Hey thanks dude. You’re definitely on the right track. Those are all killer options. I would be happy to be on any one of those 4. They are definitely different from the ibis family though, from what I’ve come to understand. I can’t wait to throw a leg over that new Stumpy evo.

[@jsinnott5952]

funny . I am in the exact same situation . I have a HD4 right now and ready for something else . Landed on The Wreckening and Megatower !! Enduro seems a little much

[@desmondc3000]

@@jsinnott5952 yeah, the HD4 is a great bike. Just want something with a bit more travel and 29r.

[@jsinnott5952]

@@desmondc3000 HD5 is meant to be really good also.

[@slimjimmypage]

What I like about Evil is that they don't really make an "enduro" bike. They're all bikes that do everything gravity, just with different levels of travel.

[@loamtroopers]

Agreed. Just the right tool for the job.

[@johndevine2469]

Great video. Hopefully some of your trails are surviving the fire. My heart cried when i heard Toads and Christmas valley were gone..

[@franciscocardenas7254]

I just have a doubt about this bike, I know it is carbon fabric, is it resistant in very hard or somewhat rough terrain?

[@jennyzarzuela4155]

How’s the sizing? I’m typically a medium but the reach seems longer than other bikes I looked at. Thoughts?

[@masonmitchellvlogs9055]

Suggestion demo the new stumpjumper evo

[@loamtroopers]

Yes!! Definitely want to get my hands on one of those.

[@caseyjoe4827]

What’s it feel like

[@JL_bryan]

Hey @Loam Troopers MTB you’ve ridden both the VVP and the delta link, how’s does each one of them fair against each other? I’m considering between a Santa Cruz Hightower and the evil offering cheers!

[@loamtroopers]

Hey Bryan. They’re fairly different compared to each other. The VPP is a much more supple platform. This is all “bro science” but in my opinion, the VPP is much more suitable for someone who is looking for the most all around suspension platform. The Delta link is very poppy and extremely responsive. Which is dope, but not everyone’s taste. When it comes to pedaling, I really couldn’t notice any difference between my Megatower and the Wreckoning. If you’re riding with more of a BMX style or you want a jibby set up. Go with the Offering. If you want something that going to be a bit better throughout the suspension in the mid-stroke, go VPP. I personally prefer the Delta but both GREAT platforms.

[@persistentconsistency]

@@loamtroopers This is pretty surprising! Most of the Megatower reviews mention the suspension being quite firm and even somewhat harsh. The Evil platform is usually considered to be poppy/playful, but still very plush. I wish there were more Wreckoning reviews out there. Not

[@duanehundley]

I have a V2. I am 6'6" and looking for a steeper STA because I have to put the seat up very high when I peddle. I rode the Offering in Sedona and loved how it climbed up slim shady and hiline trails. I could feel a little less travel in the rear than the Wreckoning and I had to watchful about that. Have you ridden a Sentinel? I rode the last version and liked it a lot. I want to switch and am thinking its between those two bikes or maybe an Offering.

[@loamtroopers]

I haven’t ridden a Sentinel yet, but would love to try out the latest version. I’m very curious to try an Offering also. I think there may be something in the pipeline for an updated Offering.

[@taoboone-storm7528]

Going up to south lake Tahoe next week stoked on doing the corral Trail. You should hit up Northstar, its so much fun.

[@loamtroopers]

Northstar is always a good time. Have fun out on corral 🤘

[@mikes.8305]

Lol

[@austinpierce6053]

Is there tons of snow over there yet?

[@taoboone-storm7528]

@@austinpierce6053 Not sure went a while ago google is always trustworthy though

[@OurMTBJourney]

Very nice. Was just looking at the bike today, probably why the google spies tossed this video my way. I ended up getting the Meta AM 29 for 2021, been waiting for it to arrive, should be here in the next few weeks.

[@loamtroopers]

Nice! That should be a sweet rig. 🤘

[@mikeh9949]

Great review, was this the first Evil bike you have ridden? I'm looking at the Evil Offering and am coming from a SC Hightower.

[@DnBQemist]

Have you ridden the SB150? Would love an enduro breakdown between the Wreckoning, Megatower and SB150

[@mariopaniagua8692]

Hi! Really enjoyed your video. I have two questions, what tire pressure did you use and what frame size is that bike?

[@loamtroopers]

Hey thanks, Mario! I was on a large frame at 6’ tall. Tire pressure were: Front 26psi Rear 28psi with Cush Core

[@Bpadil02]

Great review man! Did you try out the x-low or low geo setup?

[@loamtroopers]

Thanks man! I appreciate that. I rode in the Low setting the whole time I had it. Didn’t really feel the need to try the X-Low but I definitely would if I’m able to get on it again.

[@george_milanos]

Hey mate, is it medium or large frame?

[@JLambinator]

Nice review. V3 Wreckoning has been high on my list. STA looks a lot slacker visually than what it says on paper, so it was nice to hear you comment on the seated climbing position. Did you get a chance to climb anything steep and punchy? If so, did it sill feel like a good climbing position? I run a OneUp 210 dropper. Any thoughts on insertion depth with the longer post? Also, go get a ride on the new Nukeproof Mega 290 and let us know how it compares! :)

[@loamtroopers]

Thanks! I appreciate that. As for the climbing and insertion length. I did hit some punch/tech sections and it’s a catch 22 in my opinion. The short chain stays feel snappy and aiding when really pushing/hopping up over something, but on the other side of that, there wasn’t quite as much grip when I was on the saddle, grinding out those little punches. The delta link does a really good job with balancing the support of power while maintaining grip, but the short chain stays will play a bit of a factor. Not enough of a difference to sway it a worse climber than most though. The seat tube had some serious insertion depth. Probably the deepest frame I’ve ridden. I rode the 180 OneUp slammed with no cable pinch at all. So clutch on a bike like this. I hope that makes sense.

[@JLambinator]

@@loamtroopers Makes sense for sure. Appreciate the response. I bought a Ripmo AF when it came out because, well, the frame was cheap and the changes made addressed my gripes with the original Ripmo. However, the L at 475 reach is a touch small, but the XL at 500mm reach is getting into sled territory. Looking for that bike in the 480-490 reach range, with enough travel to get rowdy, but geo that let's it be a little playful. SO goes the journey! Great reviews man. Happy trails!

[@JaggedTusk]

Sounds like a sick bike. I'm currently looking at three bikes. The Wreckoning, new Trek Slash, and the new Stumpjumper Evo. I'm planning to demo the Wreckoning and Slash at some point. Have you had any time on the new Slash or Stumpjumper Evo? I'm interested to hear how they ride compared to the Wreckoning.

[@loamtroopers]

I haven’t gotten to ride it yet! Hoping to very soon though. I’m very curious how they would stack up against each other!

[@itsallmathematics]

What is your height, weight, and inseam? What size did you demo? I'm torn between a medium and large but am coming from an XL patrol at 6-1/2". I rode a medium offering recently and loved the flickability - 29" bmx!

[@loamtroopers]

Im 240 at 6’ and rode a large. I’m not sure on my inseam. I’d definitely go with the large though. The medium would have been too small for what the bike is meant for.

[@nickgaze8104]

Thanks for the review! I was thinking initially about the the Specialized Enduro, then the Megatower and have been fiddling with the idea of this bike. If I wanted to hit mostly (albeit small) jumps and playful trails, but dabble in some enduro racing, is the fun-factor worth the trade-off as a daily driver instead of being a competitive racer? I probably wouldn't be doing but 1-3 races a year and am not expecting actual competitive results...

[@donnpassMTB]

i had specialized enduro 2020 it was a nice bike but sold it because I didn't like it on jumps its more like a DH bike quiet on heavy side and not so playful as i would like to as before have yeti sb150 more fun on it i had but maintenance nah... shit infinity link and so , specialized very fast bike if you want just send it that is all but someone may say different about enduro, so both reckoning v3 still waiting for delivery but can't wait till I test it hope this is the bike for me I was waiting for...

[@S.Esquire]

If price was not a consideration, would you keep the mega tower or jump on the Evil? Looking for a bike in this wheel size... (coming from a v4 Nomad.)

[@TheBartes86]

Hello. I just saw your video and I don't know if it escaped my attention, but I'm curious what frame size you had the opportunity to ride? Personally, I'm 5'10 tall and I'm considering buying this L size bike. Do you think I'll do it right or go to the manufacturer's recommended size for my height? Thanks

[@loamtroopers]

I’m 6’ and rode the large. I felt really good on it! You’re right in between a large and a medium. It you want someone more playful, go for the medium. If you want it to feel more stable and roomy, go with the large.

[@TheBartes86]

@@loamtroopers Thanks

[@donnpassMTB]

I will get for Large only im 5'10 always on L size bikes.

[@slick-riq]

Would love to hear how you’d compare this vs the new slash

[@loamtroopers]

Hopefully in the near future ✌️

[@chawkins45ify]

I 2nd this

[@datdudeinred]

Possibly the best bike to convert to 180mm dual crown... Is it compatible or not though?

[@loamtroopers]

Definitely is! Would be very beastly

[@nolan4781]

So would this make a good park bike? I spend a lot of time riding downhill in the summer and I want a bike that can handle the abuse.

[@loamtroopers]

The Wreckoning would be perfect for the bike park. Downhill bikes are obviously a bit more ideal for specific bike park use but the Wreckoning will do it all.

[@kyussreinhard707]

I was wondering how tall you are because I'm trying to choose the right size

[@BikingBadwithTC]

Great review and riding! What size did you ride and what’s your height?

[@loamtroopers]

Thanks! I’m 6’ and I rode a large. It was 👌

[@MatthewSmith-uf6tr]

Would this be too much for just normal bike trails?

[@jacksonhodges942]

Only bike I’d consider replacing my megatower with

[@loamtroopers]

Right? This is a very comparable bike to the Megatower.

[@wlhensgen]

How would you describe that coral reefer color? Images don't really do it justice I'm afraid. Got one at order at Fanatik and worried it will end up being too pinkish lol.

[@loamtroopers]

It’s a wild color for sure! In my opinion, it’s not too pink. I did get some opinions from others if they thought it was pink, and we all strongly agreed it was a corral color. I had a ‘corral’ Pivot Firebird and that was definitely pink because of the gloss finish. Honestly, I was more attracted to the paint texture. It’s matte to the touch, and I thought that was really rad and unique.

[@wlhensgen]

@@loamtroopers thanks!

[@desmondc3000]

Any issues hitting your heals on the stays with the super boost?

[@broccolirob8268]

I have a size large and wear a size 11 Fiveten Freerider pro. I was concerned about this too. Not an issue.

[@loamtroopers]

Same with me. I thought for sure I’d be hitting that chain/seat stay with a size 12 but I didn’t at all.

[@MurphSlion]

Excellent review! Thinking of getting one of these, I'm 5'10, do you think the size M or L would be a better fit in your opinion? Thanks :-)

[@nathanh2875]

I'm also 5'10, got a Wreckoning V3 a few weeks back. I'm on an M, perfect size. These are big big bikes, can't imagine how huge an L would be.

[@MurphSlion]

@@nathanh2875 Nice one dude, thanks for the reply! :-D

[@sonnyfung5135]

So do you think the 2021 Evil Wreckoning is way better than Santa Cruz Megatower? I am still struggling to choose my dream enduro bike. There are just too many options. BTW have you tried the Specialized Enduro? It is said to be the best enduro bike on this planet so far.

[@loamtroopers]

I don’t think the Wreckoning is WAY better. Honestly, I think they’re very similar and meant for the same styles of riding, I just think the Wreckoning is more energetic, while the Megatower is a bit more speed compliant and grounded. I do believe the same feel could be achieved with some in depth shock tuning on the Evil though. That Delta platform is very versatile. As for the Enduro, I have not gotten to ride one on trails yet, but i am planning on it 🤘

[@superawesomefuntimego]

About to plop down my order on one of these. Just need to commit to the size. I am 5'10" and thinking Medium, but the reach is slightly less than both my current bikes (both larges with 465-475mm). The Medium wheelbase is the same as my Large 2021 Stumpjumper (1228mm) which I know works for me. I know the medium comes with a 150mm dropper, which would not be enough, I would want 170mm at least.

[@joyridejoel]

Just curious about the ballpark weight of this bike? Haven't been able to find much information on that. I get the different builds will have different numbers but just looking for an estimate

[@broccolirob8268]

I have a build that is very close to the XT build Evil offers. It's 34.5lbs

[@loamtroopers]

This build was a bit heavy coming in around 36lbs. It had Cush Core and the rear tire had DH casing. Some weight could definitely be shaved off with some different set up options, but to be fair, this bike handled its weight very well!

[@Big_Boi23]

How does the ZEB feel compared to the Fox 38?

[@loamtroopers]

I’m going to make a video going into more detail but they are very similar honestly. Both great forks. The Rockshox a bit more refined.

[@Big_Boi23]

@@loamtroopers "More refined." Sounds like a good thing, but I'm curious to know exactly what that means!

[@blakeh2198]

What was your build out ?

[@supahflict]

Vpp caught my eye, but im thinking delta link is the one you bring home to mom

[@loamtroopers]

Hahaha 😂 you nailed it 100%

[@supahflict]

@@loamtroopers awesome video bro, just the information i needed. When u mentioned that u already owned a mega tower, knew i was in the right place 👍

[@loamtroopers]

Thanks dude! I really appreciate that. I’m glad I was able to help. 🤘🤘

[@asselinpower]

I owned an Evil Calling for 3 years. It was really a mountain BMX. I really loved it. I changed it this year and the new Wreckoning was among my choices. However, because of the actual situation I couldn’t find one . I ended up buying a Forbidden Druid which is something totally different. In 3-4 years, I might come back to Evil.

[@loamtroopers]

I’d love to hear about your thoughts on that Forbidden. Have you had much time on it?

[@asselinpower]

@@loamtroopers I got it in September for the end of the season here in Quebec. In short, it s really capable for a 130/150 bike. It s very stable and fun to ride. It pedals much better than my Calling. It s not as nimble though. In comparison I think it is a much better all rounder than the Hightower or the Instinct. It feels a little more like a big bike than a short travel bike. It depends what you are after I d say. It s more efficient than my Calling was in everything but it s not as fun. Evil bikes are known for being extremely fun and they are.

[@gabrielececioni5359]

What size you tested and how tall you are?

[@loamtroopers]

6’0 on a Large

[@gabrielececioni5359]

Tks

[@kidklayko3555]

I'm in Tahoe too, and I'm looking to demo a v3 wrecker. I'm dying to know what shop demoed at? I can't find anyone who has one for demo near Tahoe.

[@loamtroopers]

StartHaus in Truckee had one last fall. I’d definitely reach out them!

[@kidklayko3555]

@@loamtroopers Already did, unfortunately they said their not doing any demos this year.

[@dyremtb27.5]

Is that corral trail in South Lake Tahoe?

[@loamtroopers]

Yes it is 🤘

[@chawkins45ify]

please review the 2021 Trek Slash!!!

[@loamtroopers]

Working on it!

[@Thee1stLouSassol]

They are demoing this near Tahoe??

[@chriscalomino5229]

Nice review. Been looking to replace my megatower with one of these but that super short chainstay has me on the fence. I'm 6 3" and I ride a XL and I like feeling centered on a bike. Or I should say more balanced front to rear. From your review -Sounds like I would give up some composure at speed for playfulness. - cornering would be crisper in tight stuff but more drifty at higher speeds or high G force. - bike sounds more like a long legged trail bike that dabbles in both free ride/ enduro worlds but doest accel at just one thing. Hope that all makes sense. I have no demo's inmy area and trying to pin down the feel of this rig. Thanks

[@loamtroopers]

Thank Chris! I think you nailed it. To be completely honest, since I’ve been back on my Megatower, I’ve been missing the Wreckoning. My mega fits me really well and I feel super balanced on it. I am a fan of the short chain stays though. It just makes the trail feel a bit more alive for me. I also LOVE the suspension curve on the Evil. It just has so much pop when you want it. Especially for having a coil on it. I wouldn’t worry about not feeling balanced on it. They’re short, but not that short. Good for getting the front tire off the ground, but you’re not going to feel like the bikes getting away from you. Being on the XL, I’m sure you’d feel right at home on it. I hope that helps a bit with your decision.

[@chriscalomino5229]

@@loamtroopers thanks for the reply. I guess I'm just used to that 445mm CS in the long setting on my MT. Might take a second to get used to it but I'm sure it will be alot more fun on tighter technical lower speed trails that are not mock chicken. Most of the time that what we all ride anyways not EWS 24/7. Thanks for the feedback 👍

[@miguelmigytractor9083]

About enduro racing, How do you think the Wreckoning will manage an enduro race?

[@loamtroopers]

I wouldn’t be my first choice for a race bike, BUT in the X Low settings, my mind could be changed..

[@JLambinator]

@@loamtroopers Because it's more on the playful, and less on the stable side?

[@Big_Boi23]

Do you think the XL size would be big enough for a 6'5" dude?

[@loamtroopers]

I think it would definitely work! 210mm dropper, 38mm rise bars, and some other adjustments.

[@mariopaniagua8692]

I am 6.3" and im getting the XL too!

[@austinpierce6053]

But why would I get this over an sb150?

[@loamtroopers]

I wouldn’t tell someone to buy the Wreckoning over a Sb150, but if you’re looking for a stiffer, more playful, poppy bike, then go with the Wreckoning.

[@brilthonion]

Please review the Transition Sentinel ♥️

[@loamtroopers]

Oooo yes! I plan on it 🤙

[@323johnnybravo]

Between this and the Mega which climbs better ?

[@loamtroopers]

Honestly it was so hard to notice much of a difference. I wish one was better than the other but they were very similar

[@323johnnybravo]

@@loamtroopers thanks!! I have that new bike itch but I love my mega still.

[@babersharif1]

Hi but you said its not a race bike ?

[@loamtroopers]

Sure it could definitely be raced, but if I was personally building a racing specific bike. This wouldn’t be it.

[@babersharif1]

So what could be racing bike which you recommend

[@JeepinIvan_MTB]

Could you possibly demo an ibis HD5 ?

[@charliemtbaustralia5308]

Sick riding

[@loamtroopers]

Thanks homie! ✌️

[@rhysbilton1482]

Anyone have this bike and if so what do they weigh and what spring do they have on? I’ve ordered one that’ll b arriving round about this weekend. Cheers

[@stefankonigsmayr7065]

I weigh about 76kg with my riding gear an have a 375 spring which fits pretty good.

[@FazeFingaz]

I’m in between getting this and a turq sb 150. Anyone ridden both yet? Need an input!

[@loamtroopers]

I haven’t ridden the Sb 150... but from what I’ve heard your looking at a very flexy Yeti vs a extremely stiff Evil. Two very different bikes in my opinion.

[@roped2theground]

Same boat bro, went with a v3 with a 11/6.

[@donnpassMTB]

i had a few yeti 150 and i love them how they ride but maintenance and infinity link didn't fan at all sold it because getting to much of it, looking to V3 geo numbers it's not so far away from evil. i just both one but still waiting for delivery,

[@marknorris2264]

I wish I didn't see this video,,,want to buy 1 now😣

[@loamtroopers]

It’s such a rad bike! I wish I could have them all 😂

[@jaybartlett2561]

I'm sold

[@loamtroopers]

Can’t go wrong 🤘

[@jaybartlett2561]

I have a pivot switchblade now...would like something that can handle more.

[@jaybartlett2561]

Would this bike work well as an all around multi purpose rig?