Niner Jet 9 RDO 4 Star XT Build : Review of Specs, details and some general frame discussion

[@chriswaggett163]

About to buy one in 5* SRAM XO as that’s my jam, plus I wanted carbon wheels. It’ll be my 3rd version of the Jet 9 & each one gets better, this one particularly so after a recent test ride. It feels more centered, & balanced, as a true XC/trail combination. Really excited & appreciated this objective, honest in-depth review. The Jet9 RDO is a real sleeper that punches way above what it’s pure stats would suggest, both up & down, plus on the flats. Pedal Damn It!

[@BikeBrosBikeShop]

I'm sure you're going to love it. Congrats

[@thezolrack8362]

Will y’all do a spec review of the 2023 rdo 29 2 star? Don’t know much about Niner but I’ve seen decent price drops that have me interested.

[@BikeBrosBikeShop]

Hi, our shop tries not to offer any bikes with Sram SX derailleurs - too many disappointed customers the first year SX came out (inconsistent inaccurate shifts and requiring adjustment too often). If you're prepared to pay for an NX or better yet a GX derailleur within the first couple months of owning the bike I think a discounted 2 Star build could be worth it. Our "NO SRAM SX BIKES" policy was largely due to the parts shortage during Covid making it almost impossible to get NX or GX Eable derailleurs, but these days that isn't an issue. The only other part that I'd have concerns about on the 2 Star is the brakes - not bad, just some people find them underpowered. Suspension parts are great so at least the expensive stuff (to upgrade) is already good enough.

[@Stormingsmoke]

I have a 2014 jet9 RDO, It’s been bullet proof. What is the weight of this one? Mine is 23.5 lbs

[@BikeBrosBikeShop]

Your generation of the Jet was very different. It was a much lighter, xc race style machine. Yours is amazingly light! The new one is around 29 lbs but more of an all-rounder.

[@randygrueb7058]

I’m considering this bike as it’s on sale at many online retailers. I’m an over 50 rider living and riding in the Midwest. Do think this bike will be good at eating up the trail chatter or would I be better with 130mm rear suspension. I mostly ride blues with lots of bumps and sharp hair pin turns-blacks from time to time.

[@BikeBrosBikeShop]

I'm a big fan of this suspension design- I consider it comparable to Pivot's DW Link for having a combination of great efficiency and small bump compliance. It could be a great option- and even at regular price, Niners have excellent components for the price so if you find it on sale...

[@iecrime]

Really enjoy your reviews. Curious given that you own a bike shop, how many bikes do you personally own and do you have any inclination toward specific manufacturers?

[@BikeBrosBikeShop]

Hi Ashura, thank you! I often have 2 full suspensions on the go plus a fatbike, hardtail, gravel bike, dirt jumper and a BMX bike. Within the shop staff they all have full suspension bikes too and we have some "shop bikes" to give the shop staff access to something different (often a new model so the staff get to know the characteristics of new models). I mix up what I ride once or twice per year (the full suspension) and I try to make a point of switching up the brand and category. I don't necessarily have an inclination towards a brand - I find they each have sort of a personality. When new concepts come out, I often try really hard to get an example as early as I can. This applies to dramatic geometry changes, crazy suspension parts and ideas, tons of tire testing, wheel and hub testing and weird modifications to test concepts.

[@iecrime]

@@BikeBrosBikeShop TY. Interesting...though I fully expected you'd have quite a few in your personal stable :)

[@skyerains2754]

After 5 years on the previous Generation, and consideration on other bikes , including the Rip 9 , new SB 140 29ner, I bought a new jet 9 frame set. I’ve had way to much fun on it , it’s all around playfulness is what I reach for in my garage 80 % of the time and I’m sure this new generation is gonna keep me smiling. The frames absolutely stand out visually over other buildings bikes.

[@trevorharnden2493]

For sizing, how did the bike fit? I’m 6’1 and the site says to go for a large but I’d like a little more professional opinion lol.

[@BikeBrosBikeShop]

I'm 6'1 and I really liked the fit of the large and had no temptation to step up to an XL. I think the only people who may struggle with fit are those who have been on an "old geometry" bike for a long time with a really low/long front end. Geometry is almost identical to the Pivot Trail 429, and from the response from both bikes, 6'1 is a good fit for a Large sized frame.