Are old Mountain Bikes worth it in 2024?

[@jamiejfowler]

Mountain biking is so fully caught up in the consumerism upgrade obsession - for most of us, our bike is not what’s slowing us down. A 6 year old bike is as good as it was six years ago. Manufacturers change sizing standards by a few millimetres or degrees and the industry tells everyone we HAVE TO GET THIS NEW BIKE or be left behind. Meanwhile skilled professional riders like Sam Pilgrim are back flipping bikes they find in the trash. Hope you have some fun with this new/old build!

[@noisepuppet]

True but Sam Pilgrim is an extraterrestrial

[@robertmcfadyen9156]

Sydneyretromtb .Channel hosted by Jonny Myatt from Wollongong Australia . He loves classic MTB'S . I have similar taste to him . Please support his channel .

[@godaphi]

I just upgraded to a 2024 bike. My now old bike is an 8 year old enduro bike with the same travel and all the 'must haves' featured in this video. I'll be honest though; the difference is night and day. Newer bike is much faster, more stable and jumps better.

[@WilliamrikerNCC1701]

My 4 year old salsa is still sold as a new model with diff colour and lower specs so I agree with this 100%

[@SDK2006b]

Exactly - My old 2008 Spesh Enduro SL still rides very well, probably just needing a dropper post to make it less hassle on up and down trails.

[@liammcfarlane3729]

Any bike is better than no bike

[@dusankrajci6270]

Nah..rather no bike than a shit bike.

[@FringeWizard2]

Nah I've ridden a kid's bike that was super rusty and was thrown away that I fixed up and when my friend saw me on it (I'm 6'5") said it was like a clown thing. I literally would have been better just walking it kek.

[@elias2338]

I'm still riding only 26" Freeride MTB, 2013 Vitus slopeduro build, 2012 Canyon Torque DH/Freerider and a 2009 Specialized P2 Steelframe. I love being oldschool 🤘🏻

[@RunRideHikeThrive]

Shoot I'll still having a blast on my 2010 Remedy 7 150mm front and back travel, Renthal Bars, KS Lev 150mm post, change to a 1x12 🔥 😍

[@michaelcollins5563]

Yup. Still riding my 2014 Knolly Podium, 26 in back, but it is now wearing a 27.5 up front. Sure, it is a little short by todays standards, but it still rips hard.

[@baileydelelys2890]

@@michaelcollins5563I’m riding a 2012 podium. Super weird but super cool bikes

[@anaboveaveragedog]

I’m still rocking a 2008 specialized hardrock hard tail and I love it

[@luisrobles9695]

P2 the fixed gear frame right fgfs

[@TheSHARCRASH]

27.5 is not dying at all! I'm admin of a +9k members group focused on enduro/all mountain from all over the world. So many still ride 27.5 or mullet because they feel more nimble, better acceleration and pedal friendly (less weight inertia). It's just that in your local area many just ride what's trendy.

[@EvansMTBSaga]

I really like mullets. Sometimes when I really stretch out a jump, I'll land and be hanging off the back of the bike and the 29er will buzz my leg and then tires feel like a circular saw haha. 27.5 rear doesn't have that issue

[@45graham45]

Still ride 27.5". No interest in the wagon wheels. I have no problem keeping up with others on 29ers and I have better acceleration and manoeuvreability.

[@madtownangler]

All my bikes still have 26" wheels. I'm short and have no desire to ride giant wheels

[@Montytobin]

27.5 is the best wheels size for sure, you can do everything on it! i do dirt jumps and bike parks on my 27.5

[@Nihlink]

Lot of the new enduros are standard in mullet now. Yt decoy comes mullet

[@AndrewHelm1]

2018 isn’t old

[@kyleslater5245]

In geometry change it is though… that’s 6 year old now…

[@joecanuck3751]

Agreed. Most of my bikes are of that vintage.

[@owenneedham4651]

More than half a decade

[@gaspertolar7950]

in mtb it is

[@camtabor4344]

It’s not new

[@titter3648]

Still ride my 2007 Kona Coilair. It works just fine. I have upgraded it to a 1X drivetrain, dropper post, larger brake rotors, a better seat, better spiked flat pedals, and put a motor on it. 26" wheels with tubes and narrow bars does not bother me at all. I had my fork serviced one time years ago and both front and rear shock still works just fine. I also had to replace the crank bearings after running trough some water, but that is the only problem i have had on it. Of course tires and grips wear out and needs to be replaced like on any bike, that is consumables. The DOT brake fluid however is a mess. dissolving the paint where it is spilled.

[@chrisc7764]

Awesome! I have an 04 Stinky with a motor on it, Rohloff hub, and a 27.5 Yari so it's a mini mullet now. I will say having wider bars feels soooo much better so if you haven't tried then I recommend it.

[@bk83082]

1× drivetrains, tubeless tires, disc brakes, and dropper posts are the most important technologies in MTB, and you can apply them to almost any bike. Slack geometry caters to a specific riding style, while tapered headtubes and boost hub spacing will impress your friends with percentages of torsional rigidity. Don't get me wrong: new bikes are incredibly capable and good to ride. It does kind of feel like the industry dabbles in a bit of planned obsolescence though. If you spend $6k on a bike, you should ride it for 20 years.

[@EvansMTBSaga]

Oh yeah for sure. I saw someone comment on a video with the new Fox electronic shock. They said "ah I least I know my frame won't change anymore because you ran out of ideas and are putting batteries on shocks now". I think its funny that we're seeing road bikers with 1x drivetrains and some with droppers!

[@bk83082]

@@EvansMTBSaga rear hub spacing is the worst trick they play on us. 6mm made countless bikes non-standardized overnight. Ironically, 100/135mm QR hubs are relatively future-proof. I'm installing a new 11s Deore drivetrain on my 2010 steel hardtail right now.

[@TivonSanders]

​@@bk83082 The bike industry definitely dabbles in planned obsolescence, as do many industries; it's all about capitalism. The 100/135 mm QR Hub is proof of that, and I say that because in 2020 -2022 I could easily find a good QR wheelset on Amazon or Worldwide Cyclery. Now finding one is really rare, and all of the good wheelsets are unfortunately (for me) boost spacing. I had to settle with a WTB sti23 wheel because of it; I was looking for an i25, but they all now are being built with boost/thru axle hubs. Pretty upsetting.

[@Ty-sm9cv]

FYI if you have a tapered head tube you can fit an angled headset to your bike, turning a 67 degree bike into a 65. It does make a difference, even modern "trail" bikes have a slacker HTA. There are ways to modernize the bike, even down to the geo, leaving your "old" bike feeling pretty similar to something you can go out and buy in 2024. For instance: I have a 2020 Giant trance 27.5 (140 rear, 150 front stock) with a 160mm Zeb, a longer 55mm shock that extends the rear travel to 147mm, and a -1.5* angled headset. The longer fork and angled headset give me a 64.8* HTA, and a slightly longer wheelbase. Using geometry modeling tools, this bike ends up having near identical geo some the modern trance X, but with a slightly shorter wheelbase and reach. The bike in this setup is imho, an improvement in every way over stock.

[@jamesrohner3792]

I'd argue that the tapered head tube is a must. Your fork selection is pretty much non existent if you have a straight steerer tube.

[@mbfcamanslife]

I'm still riding a 2014 Capra and it's still fine

[@SteveKimbo]

27.5 for life here bro, don't put it down! We're not all in it for tenths of a second and I prefer the more nimble feel they give me. My new large full 27.5 bike has a 500mm reach, 445mm chainstays, a 63° head angle, a 1280mm wheelbase and is 160/150mm travel. She flies down anything. Super stable but retains the agility of the smaller wheels. I think the industry is largely responsible for convincing folk they 'need' 29ers because 'they're faster'. Depends who's riding...😂 Another great video though, I love an Evan day 👊

[@ATHIP12]

I'm going to start riding my 2004 Trek Hardtail on the local trails, just to show people that old bikes still shred. Thanks for the motivation! Rim brakes, 26" wheels, no dropper. That's the ticket!

[@alexanderdalton6648]

I would put on a cheap dropper, under the seat or external cable control 50 dollars as the only upgrade.

[@jonathanhowson6420]

That Pink Santa Cruz Bronson has a 200*57mm rear shock which is pretty standard for the time and readily available because so many bikes used it. I still ride that exact bike as one of mine and its still killing it on the trails.

[@EvansMTBSaga]

Oh dang, if must've been a different one. Those Bronson's are cool! I hope to try one new or old one day

[@mespoon3711]

i got the 2018 one, its great and upgraded throughout, no problem at all

[@jonathanhowson6420]

@@mespoon3711 Santa Cruz frames are so good. Strong, easy to work on and work really well. Also they haven’t really followed any silly fads like superboost or pressfit bbs etc

[@leobro2011]

@@jonathanhowson6420 yeah my 2006 santa cruz heckler has 200x57 too !!!

[@Daemongrad]

Im currently rebuilding one of those. The frame is in my workstand as we speak.

[@jasonthomas66]

I first met Evan on a trail ride out East in 2022. We really hit it off and got to comfortable with each other pretty quickly. We went for a walk, talked about mountain bikes, held hands and watched the sunset. Evan is an amazing guy and I will never forget that day.

[@EvansMTBSaga]

Should've signed me instead of Cooper!

[@jasonthomas66]

@@EvansMTBSaga Hi Ev!

[@FringeWizard2]

sus

[@IGGY1969]

I've got two Nukeproof's. A Scout & A Reactor. Both 2020 & both 27.5. I've just upgraded both sets of rims to DTSwiss. I like 27.5, and so do a lot of people. I love both bikes & don't have any plans to change anytime soon.

[@nathancole8103]

I just built a 2020 scout 27.5 for my dad this summer. Sick bike!

[@trash-boiii]

ive recenly bought a 2013 Rocky Mountain Altitude 750, previous owner really went overboard with the upgraded components (shimano xt breaks and shifting, e*thirteen crankset, Rockshox Lyrik on the front and Deluxe on the rear, also a dropper post) He sold it to me for just 900 bucks since he wanted to get rid of it quickly, and the bike was a little neglected but nothing that couldnt be fixed. Even if the bikes geometry isnt the best for todays standards, the bike is a beast and ive been having so much fun with it

[@BryanLinfesty]

I just picked up a 2019 Ripmo V1 frame for 500 bucks. I usually ride a large but an XL from 5 yrs ago is a perfect fit. I love it so much! It rides as good as new bike I have ridden. Flip chips, frame storage, a little slacker head tube…that’s all that’s changed. There’s great bikes out there for sure. Thanks for posting this video.

[@AndyMedders]

Thanks for the history lesson! Sweet bike and killer super stable camera angles! I was riding a 2012 carbon Stumpy 29er until I accidentally veered off Oscars and slid into a tree cracking the bottom of the frame. I duct taped it and even rode Drop the Hammer several times before getting a new bike.

[@EvansMTBSaga]

Oh man that is unfortunate! I wonder if you tried to recreate your old Stumpy if it wouldn't feel the same. I'm going to go look up that bike now, thanks Andy!!

[@БориславМанов]

I have a 2016 orbea rallon and i absolutely love it.

[@peterharsanyi6727]

I still have my 2009 specialized pitch, 26er wheels, 3x9 drive train, bike still rips pretty good

[@markdoyle6414]

The pitch was pretty advanced for it's time.

[@blackou7]

I have a 2016 Trek Slash 8 27.5 with a lot of upgraded parts, bike's great! The main thing lacking to modern geometry is again the seat tube angle.

[@saltyman37]

Just push the seat forward

[@SprSonik13]

@@blackou7 when riding bikes aggressively you are likely out of the saddle. As stated in the video, seat tube angle means nothing at that point

[@deanemberley2333]

@@SprSonik13makes a big difference in the climb so definitely an worthwhile improvement

[@Everythingchanne63]

Hey I just wanted to thank you for your content I found your content while I was recovering in the hospital from my suicide attempt I just wanted to thank you for your content it’s brought me lots of joy and I even was able to go mtb after I got out of the hospital my bike isn’t nearly as nice as even the low bike you use in the high and low series but you have made me love mtb more and have something to look forward to in life thank you

[@gregnowak2492]

I ride a 2010 Niner RIP9, completely upgraded. It’s still a great bike!

[@baulmitfahrrad4463]

i‘m running an 2014 Radon Swoop 210 right now. 26“ freeride/dh bike, almost everything is upgraded and i love it

[@mtlbiketech7960]

Just rebuilt an old 2013 Giant ReignX, with a Marzocchi 66RCV, installed a Cane Creek DB IL air with same stroke but 5mm shorter eye to eye. Just saw Tom Isted's Giant Reign for Rampage and was like damn my build is similar and still viable, his is a mini mullet 26/27.5, only thing I'm missing is a 27.5 front wheel which supposedly fits on the 66 and I'll have a Freeride machine !!!

[@DaveH1977]

Isted’s rampage bike has 26” wheels front and rear. 👍

[@veryniceindeed]

My updated S works Enduro SL from 2008 rides like magic.

[@OmnieStar]

Still my fave bike every made. I LOVE the look of the older Capra. Dream bike for suuuure!

[@HillbillyHermitRC]

Cool to see an older frame "review". I ride a 2016 Foes Alpine+ currently. Bought the frame as new/old stock back in 2020 directly from Foes. The frame design allows the use of different wheel size setups. I run 29s with 2.8" wide Vittoria MexCals. I enjoy XC riding. So this frame has served me well. Love American handmade craftsmanship.

[@rebootbfm]

Great video, very good idea to check if the oldies can still shred. We still ride our 2017 Giant Reigns, but they got a lot of upgrades and do not check all your boxes: so we still got 12x142 and imperial sizing shock. We swapped the front wheel to a 29er and 180mm fork and spiced it up with a minus 2 degrees headset, so we now got a 61.5 head angle and a DVO Jade DH coil shock that can eat anything on the trail. It's an animal of a bike and riding these is a lot of fun !

[@chrisjones7281]

I have 2018 Giant Reign. Boost spacing. 64° head angle. 480 reach. 27.5. Love it

[@davidwoodley3288]

2015 Giant Reign Advanced 0 here. Was pretty high end ehen released and way out of my budget, but about 2019 mine came up at a price I vould manage so I jumped on it. A few little changes, but the thing that's really brought it along for me was swapping to a 29" front wheel & fork - absolutely transformed the bike and I absolutely love it.

[@owenrockwell]

Fun video of your build and ride, thanks for posting this. First rode a 2017 Transition Smuggler as a rental in Steamboat Springs, Colorado that summer and fell in love with how easily it got me up and down the mountains, despite not being conditioned to the altitude. I finally got around to purchasing one in 2021. Rides like a dream over anything I throw myself at and consistently saves me from things I have no business doing. I have no reason (and no budget-LOL!) to ride anything else for the foreseeable future-which is fine by me!

[@Hinoki_Weitzel]

I have a 2016 in my fleet with new fox suspension and a slx drivetrain, magura brakes. Its way more nimble and playful for park than my modern enduro bikes, but lacks greatly in stability and climbing, although since I race climbing even on my downhill bike isnt a big deal. It totally holds its own to my modern bikes and in some areas is even better! Id love to show you the build ! Awesome video as always

[@josephawatson]

I bought my first full suspension at the end of 2019 and still riding it. I haven't gotten anything newer its just not in my budget. I have a Fezzari Abajo Peak 29er. Man we were just in Bentonville the ride up to the hub is no joke. we have such flat stuff at home I was no where in condition to keep up.

[@jimbo6993]

I have a 2018 Rocky Mountain Pipeline with 27.5+ tires (35 mm rims). Those 2.8” tires at 16-18 psi are still pretty fun in the chunky stuff. My new bike has 29ers.

[@DaysDH]

I still have 2003 Specialized Big Hit frame (I was riding on this frame in 2018-2020)

[@tilman-g2k]

Im riding a Cube hanzz from 2012 an it’s awesome as an jibb bike

[@bierb4r0n]

In the beginning of the last year i bought a 2018 Cannondale Jekyll Jet Blue Frame with shock for 710€ . Becouse i was just frustreted about my Husqvarna MC5 and its issues. I started to build my bike around that frame and the parts from the Husqvarna. And now i am super proud of myEnduro Mashine. :D

[@corneneethling2277]

I daily, mixed tar and gravel road, a 04 Kona Coiler 26, with 2.25 Crossmark II rears and 2.5 Minion fronts, on tubes and a 1x8 drivetrain. And I love it

[@1st2nd24]

The 2020 commencal clash has a special place in my heart, it rides absolutely amazing and is super fast rolling even with the specialized hill billy tires i had on it

[@AlexOsh]

love my 2021 clash 🤙

[@stormstaticisme7868]

I am running a 2018 bike, there's loads you can do to keep an older bike fresh. I've mulleted mine and I run an inline post instead of the offset post it came with which is better for climbing. You could also run an angle headset to adjust geometry. A fresh paint job also goes a long way and keep the parts up to date and serviced and let her rip.

[@loginhooddloginhoodd2556]

I have a 2012 Transition TR450 with a rebuilt 2013 Boxxer and a Fox DHX with a 27.5'' front and a 26'' rear.

[@lupo2007]

It's nice seeing older bikes holding their own. I've been riding a 2017 Scott Genius LT 710 Plus and it works great! i have to sort out the suspension as it's been a while since it was last serviced but apart from that i'ts been riding great.

[@beardedtrucker]

Even bro. I just bought a 2017 GT force carbon pro. And it 27.5. 160 fork and 150 rear shock. It was GT enduro bike back then. I’m just getting ready to start the build on it. So I’m with you on the older enduro bikes.

[@EvansMTBSaga]

Man I bet that's going to be a sick build!

[@davidpesek1703]

I just got new old bike for me, before i had Trek remedy 2020 (frame is same as the new models) but it was not enough travel for me I had 170/150 and for what I ride it wasnt enough. I was bottoming out the rear all the time so I sold it and bought 2019 Propain Spindrift and its the best bike I ever owned. The geometry is same as 2017 model but the new one has an internal cable routing. I love it its aluminium 180/180 travel but climbs really good and its light (something below 15kgs). I have demo riden a lot of new carbon high end bikes but none of them are as fun as my old Spindrift it can handle everything you throw at it. (also looks really cool)

[@AlexMason-qp1cp]

My dad has one of those 2018 Capras in L and I have a 2023 Mega in M. Wheelbase, head angle etc almost identical. Only seat tube angle noticeable different. Both ride extremely similarly too.

[@Boyblunder5]

Im currently riding a 2019 stumpjumper and its been an amazing bike. Funny enough ive ridden it at both the durango mesa bike park and winman. Having a bike that isn't super slack has some advantages on the tight and twisty trails up here in Wisconsin.

[@josephlynch9994]

My first f.s. bike..2016 Rocky Mountain Altitude. Really tough choice to by new or add parts. Well i just couldn't let the Rocky go. Parts list: 30mm rims(non boost!) Shimano hyperglide drivetrain ,1x12 , 30 tooth absolute black oval chain ring, Pnw dropper. Already had 30mm rise bars and 30mm stem. New pads and rotors. Factory service and upgades to fork and shock. Bentonville, Farside downhill bike park , and thousand miles of enduro rides!

[@Krtek_on_Podium]

I have a little older downhill/freeride bike: Knolly Podium from 2011 but it has a 2020 rear shock and 2016 fork. When i bought it it had 2005 Marzocchi 888 vf fork and fox dhx 3.0 shock but it vas too short for the frame. Its a 26er and i love its geometry. So, in my oppinion older bikes can be even better than newer one. Am i the only one who thinks that older like 2008-2012 frames are bombproof? They are just unbreakable. 🤟oldschool never dies!!!🤟

[@fiatfixie4344]

Replacing the large frame on my 2018 full sus trail bike with the extra large version was the game changer for me. Moved the seat forward a little, shortened the stem and was still left with an extra centimeter of reach👌.

[@bubbysbikes]

Grrreat bike. What a build. 27.5 is the best wheel size IMO. Loved the video and the music. The side camera angles were really cool.

[@benleach295]

Great video! I still love riding my 2016 Orange Alpine 160. It's geometry was "revolutionary" at the time but is now that of any trail bike. I've ridden plenty of modern bikes, but I see no changes in them that are substantial enough for me to ditch my reliable bike which I know inside and out.

[@kmaxxfagyan5740]

My 2017 Nomad still shreds. 63.5 HA with SlackR 155mm crank arms (zero pedal strikes) 77 seat angle, full aft with Ergon DH saddle (lots of clearance and doesn't look weird)

[@WinterGameplays]

I rode a Capra exactly like that frame you got there this year, and man, it's such a beast! I have a 2016 Transition Patrol M, and the Capra was a L size, i can tell the difference really easy: the bike is way more stable, in the exit of corners that frame really shines with great acceleration. Great bike!

[@SuperMudbog]

I recently got an older beast of a bike. A Commencal supreme DH V3. 200mm marzocchi 58, Marzacchi Moto C2R rear shock, 157mm superboost, Sram GX with Sram Code R 4 piston brakes. Sold my Polygon for $780, and bought the Commencal for the same price. There are some golden ones out there, but it definitely takes a thorough search.

[@lifesteu8188]

I have a 2016 cube stereo race hpc and it haves all the features you listed and i bought used for 1100$ in great condition. And it stands up to my dads 2022 midrange enduro bike!

[@bugbabba8317]

I ride a 2019 canyon strive, the geometry is epic it has a 66° head angle and 1190mm wheelbase, pretty funny for an enduro bike +it has shapeshifter you should definitely give it a try!🔥

[@jasonhemmerlin6139]

2018 is still too new. I just rebuilt a 2011 Giant Reign 0. Thru on the same fork you put on your build. The Reign is able to fit a 27.5 wheel in the rear and has just enough clearance for a 2.2 in wide tire. Im currently doing 1x10, but will upgrade to 1x11 eventually. Has the stock dropper post still. I’ll have to upgrade to a wireless dropper if/when it fails since it’s externally routed cable. This bake has been a ton of fun so far. Plan on getting a 26 in wheel made in the future so I can make it a mullet when I want. QR is not an issue. Most hub options can be adapted. And a QR holds with more force than a thru axle. On an aluminum bike there really isn’t much benefit. On a carbon frame a thru axle might be beneficial, but I have no interest in destroying a carbon frame on the trails.

[@iancockerline2305]

Checking in from my 2010 RM Altitude A70. People always comment on it. They love seeing the old steed keeping up, jumping and still generally shredding trails. Has a dropper now and Box 1X9 drivetrain, and shorter stem but otherwise stock. (New tires I suppose too)

[@TheCaptainsCog]

In may 2020 I bought a 2011 Giant Trance X....that is pretty old!

[@SprSonik13]

I don’t even have to watch this video to say hell yes! My “old” 2018 Yeti SB 5.5 will hold its own against any modern mountain bike in its class. XT 11 speed with 34t on RF Era cranks and a 9-46 cassette, 180mm XT brakes (4p front, 2p rear), stock shock, upgraded 38x170 Fox fork w/DSD Runt, and a bulletproof set of Enve M70s with Onyx hubs, along with a bunch of other stuff to make it perfect for me. it climbs well, but can tackle enduro courses with ease, and I’m confident sending it 25+ feet through the air on big jumps. Of course, there are trade offs due to some of the newer geometry, but for how I ride there’s a reason I haven’t replaced it.

[@EvansMTBSaga]

That sounds like the perfect build and I've been searching for your exact yeti for a few years now. People don't want to sell them haha

[@SprSonik13]

@@EvansMTBSaga I might be sending you a message in a few weeks ;) my focus has shifted from bikes to the weight room and when I do ride, I generally grab my equally dialed in 2018 Santa Cruz Chameleon (my favorite bike I’ve ever owned since starting on BMX bikes in the 70s) single speed, 34x16 mullet, rocking a 160 mm Ohlins coil. I am shopping now for a full power EMTB with similar ride characteristics to my Yeti, that will allow me to hit zone 2 recovery rides and not interfere with my gym results. If I can find the right one, I will be selling my Yeti. (I never thought I’d say those words!!!)

[@SprSonik13]

@@EvansMTBSaga now that I finished it, thanks for another great video! Your channel definitely helps keep my Mtb fire stoked in spite of my changing priorities.

[@vincentboucher2547]

Used to live in BC back in 2013 to 2015. Got a Chromag Wideangle to replace all my other bikes, and I built it up to handle some really burly stuff. I came back home with it. It hasn't left me since and it's the most fun ever! Sometimes, having the latest and greatest isn't really what mountain biking is about. It's about how good it feels to leave the house and just go ripping up some trails.

[@reversed9757]

My 2016 Kona Operator rides like a dream so I'd say old mtbs are still so worth especially if u have the money to put some good parts on them

[@matthewhall8790]

I've got a sweet 20 yo bike that's a project right now, a Klein Palomino. I've had one before and loved it. I sometimes ride my late '80's Rockhopper Comp on my local trails in Colorado Springs.

[@petergibson7287]

I have several bikes, and one of my faves is a 2012 Pivot Firebird and it has a 26" rear and 27.5" front and i still ride it lots.

[@effarig4bla423]

i have a 2016 yt tues and i love it it makes so much fun an does the job well

[@biggussconnus]

Things I noticed. 1. Great music -reminds me of 80s MacGyver vibe 2. Evan dressed to match his bike 3. Funky camera angles Liked this one. Maybe a drone to follow you would produce even more amazing videos

[@EvansMTBSaga]

Thanks for the observations! It was a fun video and I tried changing things up a little. There's a local drone guy that does FPV trail filming and I contacted him asking for a price and he said $750 for a 4 hour session 😂😂

[@VanIsleKiwi]

I have a 2019 specialized enduro. It’s still the best bike I’ve owned. I looked at getting a new bike this year and rode a few demo bikes. None fit me quite as well and there is no way I could justify the price tag to ‘upgrade’ to newer. For a fraction of the cost I replaced a couple of worn out parts and have a bike I love to ride.

[@zorqis]

I also kept my 2018 Capra Al 27.5, also sized up to XL instead of L, its utility value is far greater than its used price and I still enjoy riding it. I like how that bike moves and dances under me. Actually there is still a point riding full 27.5 instead of full 29 or even mullet. Plus, I am still using a 26/27.5 mullet - very playful. That being said, I mostly ride a 29" Rallon '23, for comfort, stability and personal good match.

[@lukebeltrand3847]

I am blown away by my 2016 Stumpjumper expert 29er. I started on a 2010 Rock hopper, upgraded to a 2022 Status. But picked up the stumpy from a Freind and wow. I cannot tell its a 2016.

[@godspeed821]

I have 2019 canyon neuron al 7.0 sl, a trail bike and modified it to be enduro-ish bike with 160mm fork, burly tyres and other enduro/dh components. It rides like a dream. I'd say almost everything on it is as modern as on new bikes, except the head tube angle.

[@ohcrapwhatsnext]

Nice build. I was just out there on the Razorback Greenway on the road bike. Mile 37 there is a tunnel that i did a ice hockey check on. The wall won. Suffered a hematoma on left side and then crashed on the right side. That's what happens when there are insufficient signage and the tunnel takes a dog right. Plus my first time on the path and maybe 17 mph was a bit fast for 42 miles, lol I really love that part of the state. So much i am trying to move there in the next year.

[@wafflemaster7615]

My santa cruz nomad 2020 Is so good at jumps

[@EvansMTBSaga]

Man I want to try Santa Cruz, new and old!

[@craigellis680]

Evan. I like your experimentation with parts and well done for bringing a frame back to life, I'm sure someone will buy it and ride it for years going forward. Just a little tip regarding brakes. Your shigura idea is great. I've been upgrading Shimano brakes using the clarks m4 calipers for a while.. I was browsing Ali express the other week and got a set of meroca m4 brakes for $30 which is insane. The merocas are the clarks presumably with the factory that makes them's own branding. Really solid brakes when set up with a Shimano or tektro lever

[@tonyhruzek4250]

Which model Merocas are you using?

[@cmagnell613]

I bought a 2014 Ibis Mojo HDR frame about 5 years ago - was Ibis's last 26'er but they also sold it with a different rear shock as their first 27.5 bike - the HDR 650b. I rode it a few years as a 160mm F/R travel 26er, then upgraded it to 27.5 with a 150mm Pike and modified the rear shock to be about 145. There's been nothing I haven't been able to keep upgraded, Full 1x11 XT build with 4-pots - laced up my own CK hubs (non-boost but no issue with finding wheels if I can build my own), and a plenty slack yet old-school nimble geometry. Handles long days pedaling as well as big days at the park. I did opt to drill the frame for an internal dropper since I could get another 25mm of drop by swapping to a post with a lower collar stack height. Not bad for a 10-yo frame based on a 20-yo design (the Mojo frame was only minorly tweaked over the years since they unveiled it in 2005).

[@SimplePleasuresMTB]

HELL YEAH! I got a 2015 trek session 88 and I made it a 12 speed with dropper. (Downduro) it’s my favorite bike I own. 30mm internal width rims, DT SWISS, 27.5” saint brakes 203mm brakes, 210mm travel, Rockshox Super Deluxe plus rear lockout shock…I’ve done 20+ mile rides, climbs fairly well and descent is Awesome. This is nothing new. ONE BURLY BUILD

[@romulus113]

I'm six feet tall and ride a large 2017 Specialized Enduro Pro Carbon 650b. The only upgrade is an Ohlins TTX coil. I have buddies with newer bikes but I'm very happy on my ride and can't see a reason to upgrade. If you can find one, it's a sweet ride even with the stock air shock. I forgot I upgraded the brakes to Code RSCs and rebuilt them with metal pistons.

[@sebastienjurkovic7154]

Ive got an ° old° 2019 Specialized Enduro Aluminium frame in 27.5, new 180 Lyric and 170 Cane Creek DB coil, put in an angle set which puts the head angle at 64, new hope Fortus wheels (35 outer)....this bike is a beast, rides better than the newer enduro models, obviously the rider has a lot to play on how a bike rides

[@theshedMTB]

Great video! My favorite bike right now is a 2018 Polygon Vander t8 frame that I bought NOS from polygon. It is a 27.5 but I made it into a mullet with a 29 upfront bike is awesome. I love it!

[@adventurefj819]

Just entered the contest. Fingers crossed! Would love that Slash! Also, great video man. I'm definitely down with the older bikes too.

[@johnnyk2305]

I have a knolly endorphin, particularly a 2018 build, it's super fun and works like a dream. Recommended you try it!

[@EvansMTBSaga]

Oh yeah I had an older Knolly Chilcotin (spelling idk) on my Pinkbike watchlist for a while. Pretty rad looking bike, maybe better looking than the new ones

[@yamahschector]

My 2014 trek slash is only missing boost spacing and a standard rear shock size other than that it’s a blast.

[@deadskimountaineer]

Besides the trouble with finding tires I absolutely love my 2012 Santa Cruz Nomad.

[@downtoridemtb]

Great video idea Evan! I’m still riding my 2020 Marin Rift Zone that I got in late 2019. Not enough changes or cool stuff in new bikes to make me want to upgrade.

[@brianahrendt1556]

I just bought a 2016 Trek Slash that was upgraded with 1x12 XO and XT dual piston brakes. $1000 and I love it.

[@octodadmtbmartyrichards2862]

2018 yt Jeffsy 29er light, fast, strong, keeps up with down county bikes and enduro bikes. I sized up and cut the frame 🖼️ down 25mm it made seat tube a bit steeper

[@jason.bernier]

That new follow cam angle is sick

[@hallstewart]

It’s 2024 and I still ride my 2013 Tracer 275. Ok it’s had upgrades: pike, shock revalve, 2 degree slackset. Still good!

[@mcspikesky]

27.5 is the way. Not dead

[@Daniel_KS]

I have an old 2015 Enduro Comp 29, with a bit more modern rear shock (rock shox with pig pack,, 2016 or 2018 idk) and a lyric 170mm up front. As a L it feels a bit short (444 to 445mm reach) If it was 452mm I'd feel at space but when riding down some trails back to back with some very moderns 2020s bikes.. My bike feels as push if not more. As long as you maintain the suspension tires etc, one can't complain. Having 11speed 11-51shimano and internal dropper post, honestly, idk if i'd change the bike to another that isn't a good ebike

[@Markozzy]

i have a Whyte t-129 29er 2017 still holds its own full sus yt make some really great frames

[@jayveesanpedro4974]

have a full carbon 2013 devinci wilson, just put on a reach extender and some offset bushings for longer and slacker, and also got a 27.5 on front. Trying to chase modern geometry without getting a new bike lol

[@shrek2126]

i have a 2018 canyon spectral cf8.0 and i love it cause it doesn't feel or look old at all compared to newer bikes. what i would also want to try is an old 26" devinci wilson, i think in looks super nice

[@cornish_boy6235]

I’ve just done something similar with an alloy 2019 transition scout which I’ve been pleased with.

[@lsugimoto8361]

2019 Evil Insurgent full 27.5 is one of my favorites as is a 2018 Specialized Demo 8 full 27.5. They both are very playful and crazy fun to jump. Both wish they had steeper seat tube angles for climbing and tire clearance. Not planning on selling either anytime soon. I also have a couple of newer 29s as well and they are also very fun

[@andrey_rider]

My main and only bike is a 29” 2017 Trek Slash 9.8 size Large. I love the bike, but the frame is visibly small for me, if compared to newer ones. And the seat tube angle, my god… Beside that, rides great downhill :)

[@hananas2]

Old? Dude I ride a 2006 stumpjumper FSR, with a 1x11, new brakes and modern cockpit it's absolutely fine for another decade 😆 did a MTB event last summer and I was able to keep up just fine! The guy I rode with was pretty impressed. P.S. 26" wheels are still super fun to ride. Tried 29 a few times now and it's not for me even though I'm 183cm. (6ft) Super slack head tube angles (66° and below) aren't for me either, too floppy. I'm by no means saying it feels as plush or as stiff as a modern bike, or even recommending people buy bikes from 2006, but I'm just saying you can go older than 2018 and still be absolutely fine.

[@TheArimatheus]

I ride a 2008 Epic. I live in Dallas, TX, but take it to Bentonville quite often. My dad owns a house up there.

[@jackmast6983]

Evan, I love how you make all of the videos that I wish someone would make. I have also noticed the decrease in price of 27.5 parts recently, which is why my bike also has a brand new domain.

[@mrcookiemonster7805]

I have a few bikes. My oldest is a 2005 (I think) Giant VT TWO. Talk about old geometry. But, that bike is hella fun to ride. And it looks almost brand new which gets tons of looks and compliments.

[@ryansteiger6960]

Thank you for the video Evan. Sweet build, it came out nice 😛

[@TwistedEngineering]

I have a mostly stock 2016 transition patrol carbon 1 and its one of the most solid bikes ive had so far, at 160 155 travel on a 27.5 base its just amazing