2022 Trek Roscoe 9 Review - Better In Every Way

[@hardtailparty]

Trek really impressed me with this new Roscoe 9. Which Roscoe would you get? Would you rather have a 150mm dropper and one bottle mount, or a 130mm dropper and 2 bottles inside the frame? Or both? side note: sorry for the shaky cam, it was a BUMPY trail! I recently had to replace my trusty GoPro and I'm still dialing in the new one.

[@HissLikeSteam]

I personally would love a longer dropper.

[@jurisx85]

Would take the first water bottle bolt out, right off the store. Goodbye warranty for the frame, but hello dropper fun! That's how i did it on my bike. Great review, as always.

[@MitutoyoAmerica]

Steve, you're correct. Some of those trails do look familiar. Looks like I bought my Roscoe a year too soon. Great review.

[@gressshap8200]

Looking at the side view of the bike at the end of the video I struggle to understand why you need that seat to go lower than the height of the rear wheel. Trek have nailed this for me in all aspects…. Just need to see them fit sale in the shops which is still to happen. Good job as always on your honest feedback.

[@hardtailparty]

@@MitutoyoAmerica This new roscoe is really special, but I know a lot of people have lots of love for the previous one.

[@Jimburgess1977]

I love it when you review bikes made by the mega brands like trek/specialized etc. They really have no excuse but to make a really great bike. 👍

[@ShadLife]

I agree. This was an excellent review with a lot of good info. I do like how he refers to people riding in other areas with different terrain. Often times reviews are subjective based on just the area they are riding in, like Pink Bike. I don't like how they make it seem like everyone is riding the same terrain they are always in. So yeah, HTP has better objective reviews for all types of riders and terrain.

[@dangibson1192]

I absolutely love my Roscoe 9. I’ve done a few upgrades to accommodate my 6’1 240lb size and aggressive style of riding. Fox Factory dropper post, Fox Factory 38 fork, Vibrocore handlebars, new grips, seat, and Cushcore. I smile the whole time I’m riding, blasting past my buddies with their f/s bikes. My Hardtail Party shirts show they’ll be delivered next week! Thanks for making great content and sharing your knowledge.

[@bradandelizabethlogue526]

What size do you have?

[@dangibson1192]

I have a size large. ⁠@@bradandelizabethlogue526

[@phillychew2154]

@dangibson1192 what size did you get?

[@dangibson1192]

@@phillychew2154 I got a size large

[@dangibson1192]

@@phillychew2154 I got the size large and with the sale Trek is doing, now is a great time to snag one if you’re thinking about it.

[@tobytee7883]

Watching this from a cold, snowy and muddy Scotland really makes me wish I had warm, dry desert trails to ride from my front door this time of year. Hardtail Party videos help the winter months pass more quickly though. Thx :)

[@hardtailparty]

In the summer I'll be wishing I were in Scotland riding your trails. :)

[@danielphilbrook1035]

I bought my Trek Roscoe 7 about 2 weeks ago and I am loving it! I have yet to hit really tech trails yet but it is a blast on fast flowing single track trails with lots of jumps and berms. Great review. 🤙🏻

[@davidh7414]

Congrats to Trek for discovering that it is possible to have a 29 hardtail with a head angle less than 71 degrees. About half a decade behind everyone else but somehow they worked it out.

[@GHinWI]

71 is obviously ridiculous, but 65deg makes zero sense in the Midwest where Trek are designed, and where they hold a huge market share.

[@davidh7414]

@@GHinWI 65 degree static HA with the 140mm fork is actually 66.7 degrees once you add rider weight and 20-25% sag = perfect for 95% of trails. Trek has been stuck in XC hardtail mindset with frightening steep static head angles that only get scarier in the real world with a riders weight on them. They have been stuck in their "G2" steep head angle/big fork offset safe space while everyone else moved on.

[@josesbox9555]

Haha! My old el mariachi is 71 deg. Love that thing. Even have some seat time in Sedona with it.

[@shamrock4840]

@@davidh7414 so true - the Stache nearly killed me

[@kesar21]

What would you recommend, instead of the Rosco 9, with similar characteristics and price, several options? @david h

[@jasoniannone9675]

I have a feeling that your influence is perfectly timed with the covid MTB boomers and the legitimization of KZbin in media. The small UK builders have been progressing hardtail geo for years, but I get a sense that your opinions and experiences have influenced and expanded the availability of that progression. Even if your name isn't known to a particular manufacturer, your influence is there. Trek wouldn't have built this bike without you.

[@hardtailparty]

That's very kind of you to say. It's an exciting world for hardtails right now.

[@hardmtnbiker]

I’m a dedicated hardtail Mtn biker and think Steve is definitely ahead of curve with his opinion on frame and bike components. Trek and many other big brands are finally waking up and realizing that not everyone wants a full suspension and are able to ride hardtail’s on hard trails.

[@salamonahmed6735]

Hi steve.. This Suliman from Sudan.. I love what you do.. And a big fan of the hardtail party.. I'm new to MTB world and trying to collect much info as I can get before buying my first bike and you helped alot.. So big love and much thanks for you bro.. I have small requset.. A review of the brand new stoic 4 will be much appreciated. Let the party keep on.. Because we are all invited😎

[@BobStanleyy]

Finally a high quality POV on the bike ive been waiting for months! Thanks

[@painteater19]

Great to see Trek finally showing up with a modern hardtail. My (unimportant, non industry insider) opinion is that this bike should have showed up around 2020 or 2019, but either way it's nice that they have a horse in the race so to speak. The last Roscoe was a complete non starter for me at least. I wouldn't touch that 141 QR rear axle with a 10ft pole.

[@Nico-kt4st]

Thanks for the review mate, exactly what I was hoping to hear. Getting delivery of mine in Feb to replace my 7 year old xc bike that cost me 500 and has well and truly been taken to its limits and beaten to hell and back :) Cant wait to get out there on this beauty!

[@returnoftheshredi]

You are a machine. Lol. You narrated that whole video while pedaling the crap out of that Roscoe and never really got out of breath. Cheers!

[@shortfusemiller6984]

Just ordered on Saturday, trek has the Roscoe 9 on sale for $1999 shipped to my local bike store. Can’t wait specially at that price 👍🏻 thanks for the videos .

[@timbertome2443]

I did the same with a Roscoe 8 for $1.6k really enjoyed it these past two weeks!

[@newhousepictures]

Fantastic review. After watching this video, I hit the local Trek dealer to put my leg over one, and they set me up with a smoking deal on the Roscoe9 out the door. On the M/L, plenty of dropper for anything I'm getting into. This bike has renewed the stoke for mountainbiking! Thanks again!!!

[@michaelguerrera1463]

Hey Steve! Out here in NorCal. Just hoping you're feeling better. I loved this video and had to watch again after getting out finally on my R9. Reminded me of your other video with the announcement of your condition. Much love your way brother!

[@chillphung8327]

I just became aware of this bike yesterday, it's closer (in size M) in geometry to my 2016 Commencal Meta AM HT than the new Commencal hardtails. I love my Meta's geometry as it feels like a giant dirt jumper + freeride bike that can also move on an XC course with a high seat. I'm glad Trek has moved towards a more "fun" geometry with lots of "pop" with the short 430mm chainstays for manuals and bunnyhops! This will probably be my next bike.

[@41srn]

I rode a couple of roscoes at a trek dealer yesterday. I’m 177cm and tried the m/l first and the reach felt too small like I was sitting on top of the bike and almost hunched over, then I tried the large and it was much better so that’s the size I’ll be getting. I’ve read a couple of people say they wished they’d gone up a size. Definitely try before you buy if you can

[@hardtailparty]

Yeah, the reach is shorter than other bikes and the seat tube is longer.

[@chucky3000.0]

I have the 2020 Roscoe 7, and they've updated everything I wanted updated. When I'm ready I'll make the leap to the new model.

[@dunneryak]

i have the 2019 roscoe 8 ...i love it...get some good pedals and tyres on it and have fun... the BB is poor but very cheap to replace...

[@davidgordon9048]

Thanks for the videos. I got busy with chores today and was about to nix my afternoon ride. After watching you have so much fun out there, I’m throwing the bike on the rack and heading out now.

[@hardtailparty]

Best compliment ever, thank you!

[@markkarstens7873]

Thanks for the review! I have one on order and it should arrive in 13-18 months, which ties back to your earlier supply chain video. This bike should handle anything 55 year old me is willing to ride here in Minnesota!

[@dionisiosglentis1764]

I bought a Roscoe 8 and upgraded the fork, drivetrain, brakes, and dropper post, and she rips! I'm 6 feet tall with a 33" inseam and ride a size Large. I have no issues with the length of the seat tube. I installed a 170mm dropper with room to spare.

[@bmwm3man]

what fork and brakes did you go with?

[@outdoorsandiego]

Great review. Loving my Roscoe 8. Your vid definitely swayed me towards this bike, and it is fitting my needs perfectly. You hit the nail on the head with this review. Playful, fun, versatile, and capable. I know you have ridden some seriously good climbers, but I love climbing on this bike, especially on moderately techy sections. As for the seat tube, my main bike is a slash, and the seat tube is a real problem. I can slam the seat lower on the Roscoe, so it has not been an issue even on steep tech.

[@asbjrnkristiansen429]

I bought the 2023 R9 a week ago today and one or two days later I found out about your channel here on the 'tube. By now I've seen a load of your videos and having been a roadie all my life and now transitioning to trail ht's, I have but one word to describe my awe - one that is widely used to express respect in road cycling, and that's: CHAPEAU!!! Your level of knowledge about everything ht is nothing - nothing! - short of astounding. I loved this review (one could argue it's because I'd already bought the bike by the time I saw your review 😋) but I believe seing it priorly would've only affirmed my decision to go for the R9. It's my first trail ht and I'm totally in love with it. I'm sad to hear about your health issues, so wishing you the best of luck going forward and hopefully making a decent recovery. And now that I'm hooked on this I'm looking forward to watching everything I've missed and everything that's coming on your channel. That is, whenever the weather stops me from riding. I have a hunch Norwegian weather means less sun than you have over there in Sedona 🙂Take care 🙂

[@WStar4Life]

I’ve been on full suspension for several years now and took a ride on a friend’s hardtail and it made me miss having one. I just picked this up last weekend and Trek stacked their military discount on top of the sale which made it $1799, a steal considering the spec. Took it on a short ride and WOW! Going to a park with several trails on Saturday to put it through its paces 😊

[@shineperishingrepublic]

i watched this probably 10 times before i bought mine and im glad i did. this bike is 100% what i needed and fits me to the letter. thank you.

[@shineperishingrepublic]

Im back 7 months later: I still love this bike and I haven’t changed much on it at all. My only critiques are that the area on the frame where the rear brake caliper mounts protrudes far enough that my size 12 shoes heel hits it if I’m not juuuuust perfect on my pedal. I thought it was a me issue but honestly who rides a size XL and wears a size 9.5? The other thing, this bike should have came with sliding rear dropouts. I’m looking into running SS on mine and will have to use a Paul components tensioner etc. and that’s cool. But more stuff to buy. Overall, I’m glad I bought this instead of its price sister fuel ex5. The rear hub is the MVP, I love the rhythm 36, and the XT derailleur is smooth. I go fast on my road bike, and my Roscoe is for FUN. and it’s damn fun.

[@hippiebits2071]

@Brandon Hamilton I think it's great when people come back and post updates after they have owned something long enough to identify the idiosyncrasies. Obviously, someone who has ridden a ton of bikes like Steve has probably can do so right off the bat, but the average consumer not so much.

[@rocker6883]

Just got mine a week ago. Absolutely loving it. Everything feels so controllable.

[@hippymtnbkr]

I rode the old Roscoe platform for three years, When they said they were going to 29. I thought I would go for it. But then (because of my service job, and mortgage, and car payment) I sprung for entry level Trek FS. Which surprisedly, I'm very happy with. I liked the old Roscoe with the 27.5 wheel's. I never really noticed it not having a rear thru axle. One thing I do notice on 29ers. Being 6'3", puts you pretty high off the ground, especially since most of my height is my legs. So when I fall, it seems to be a bit further down 😆🤕🚵

[@jannehamalainen2302]

What size Roscoe do you ride? What is your inseam?

[@hippymtnbkr]

@@jannehamalainen2302 I rode an XL, 35" inseam. Fit was right on

[@joshbenson8039]

I’m glad you mentioned the 6 is basically not a Roscoe. Trek didn’t need to have a 6, and they’re deceiving new buyers by having it in their line

[@sixate]

Great review, sounds like they have a winner with the new Roscoe. But man, it sickens me how people who have a limited budget or lack of knowledge will get fooled by the Roscoe 6. Trek is doing a dirty move on that. And you nailed it how this is a great beginners bike. Just getting into the sport and having a fun and easy to ride bike is key.

[@billw_mtb3220]

I am glad to see that Trek is making interesting hard tails again. Back before they killed the Gary Fisher brand they made a number of higher end and interesting models such as the Rig ss and Sawyer rigid.

[@danman4758d]

Wish I saw this before buying my Roscoe 6 a few months ago but I still love my roscoe it’s a great bike for me to learn and get started on

[@jasonrichmond7974]

Love the big bike brand reviews. The Roscoe was on my shortlist when I got in the sport in 2019. Ultimately went with a Giant Fathom that is similar to the Roscoe. How does the Roscoe compare to the Fuse? Furthermore is there a chance to review a Giant Fathom in the future? Watching your videos is what reminds what’s so great about a hardtail. Versatility and fun! Keep it up!

[@ethan0wnz479]

I test drove a Specialized Fuse at one bike store, and it ran for 3k. I went to my local Trek dealer and test drove the Roscoe 7 and was blown away by how it felt compared to the Fuse, and it was nearly half the cost at 1650. I went ahead and bought it, and I'm super stoked as it's my first mountain bike. I got the medium large, and I am still getting acclimated to the drop post. I hope you make it to the trails in Bentonville/Fayetteville as I'd love to see it ridden from a Hard tail perspective! Keep up the great content! I will definitely keep the patreon in mind.

[@hardtailparty]

Congrats on your new bike! I actually have a video on Bentonville on a hardtail. Lots of fun

[@Jose-sy1je]

How do you like the 7? I got the 8 and haven't ridden it so far.

[@ethan0wnz479]

@Jose-sy1je a year later and it still rides great. I don't love it on super rocky trails, but its so fun for downhill trails

[@drouleau]

Fun fact (at least on my Roscoe 9 that I just picked up recently) - have the medium that's supposed to come with the 130mm dropper. I was replacing my dropper today with a 150mm dropper (One Up 150mm dropper actually fits the medium Roscoe), and taking out the OEM one, it states on the post it's only 125mm of travel.

[@drouleau]

After a bunch of use, definitely would not recommend the OneUp post, unless you love to listen to the post creak constantly while seated

[@amartinezperez]

Thank you for this info and feedback. Which is the max insertion lenght available? or the distance from the top vertical tube to the upper bottle cage bolt? I'm considering purchase a roscoe m frame and put my 150 dropper post on it

[@rexxstone4320]

Good review! Learned a lot from watching this video. I’m a little new to mountain biking. I had a Roscoe 6 2020 With an upgraded fork. Bought a 2024 Canondale habit HT2. The bike was definitely not what I expected. It had a 64° and a little bit of a longer chainstay And it felt like a tank was nowhere as playful as the Roscoe 6! Had to return it the next day! Lesson learned geometry matters like you pointed out! Subscribed.

[@G14tube]

deciding between the roscoe 8 and the giant fathom 1 . 🤔. Thoughts?

[@yamahschector]

Specialized butcher tires are by far my favorite tire ever. I use to love the maxxis Larson tires. The butcher gives just enough with little resistance and then all the grip and meat when turning and leaning

[@yamahschector]

Actually I love the slaughter I got them confused

[@vernalmaloy3992]

I just rode one of these last night and had a blast. I rode the Hurricane Cliffs system, mostly smooth dusty trails with some rocky technical sections. It did fine in the technical. It flew through the smooth bits. The rear hub sounds like a beehive quietly going about its business.

[@timothyconnecticut1910]

Very well said about the dropper post "short commings" .

[@shaunroach7829]

Great review Steve!! Great seeing some different trails in your neck of the woods on these reviews!!! Great job as always, very detailed oriented and honest as always!!! 👍👍💪

[@MikeKraemer87]

One thing to mention on these, is that you can also order just the frame from your local Trek dealers for around $750

[@marcguerino5645]

Love to see it! I'm a newer rider and got a Marlin 6 last year. Loved it but always wanted something more capable after a few rides. Haven't gotten the time to get out at all and was going to start up again, but was thinking about upgrading to a Roscoe 7 to get started again. Great review!

[@josephhoover5737]

The shop I work for just dropped the big red S and this will be my new bike!

[@caseymcculloch5027]

Great review, just purchased Roscoe 9, today, walked in too see if I can order one and was shocked too see one for sale in my size.

[@matttttttttttttttttttttttttttt]

Same thing for me but with the Honzo ESD. its a great time to be a hardtail rider.

[@hardtailparty]

Whoa, congrats to both of you!

[@abelardovasquez1477]

Thanks for review. I have been thinking of just upgrading my 2019 Roscoe 7, but now I'm thinking of just getting the Roscoe 7 or Roscoe 9. Thank again for review

[@GHinWI]

Boost…that “standard” we were told was necessary because “all” tires would be 3.0”, then tires settled on 2.4-2.6”, and boost stayed because???

[@elpoison626]

Don’t apologize just say it like it is, because it is what it is really!appreciate the content

[@Monkeyseemonkey79]

23:07 it seems odd to spec heavy 36 fork if this bike doesn't like to get rowdy. Why not put a cheaper, lighter 34 fork that is better suited to the geo? Same with the heavy 2.6 tires - I feel like so many brands over tire their bikes. Throw something like a 2.3 Rekon on the back and a 2.4 Rekon or Forekaster up front and it would feel so much snappier.

[@musicjnky1982]

Great review Steve. You don't make it easy to choose a bike lol. Always appreciate your honesty and insight.

[@hardtailparty]

Lots of good options to choose from these days.

[@TheChillBison]

That dropper post thing would be a deal-breaker for me. Seems like a huge engineering oversight that there's no excuse for. If you could fit a 175 or longer, but you put a nut in the way, that's just silly. An external nut welded on, or a small plate of metal with a threaded hole are such easy fixes. An almost-perfect entry hardtail ruined by something so minor is a shame... But that is for another great review!

[@fundip2010]

I know I’m a year late, but the bottle rivnuts can be dremeled off if you’re careful.

[@chrismedellin5330]

Love your reviews Steve I bought a Roscoe 7 in March of 2020 literally the month before all the shutdowns. I feel like I feel for the marketing jargon and the components spec for that bike ( no other bike in the price range came with a 12spd Eagle !! Lol ) it was only after my purchase that I found your channel and I feel like now I am a much more informed buyer for whenever I am ready to purchase my next hardtail. With that said I LOVE my Roscoe even with all it's downfalls. Its my first brand new MTB and it's a perfect fit for me and 99% of the trails i ride . The water bottle bosses are by far the most annoying thing because it gets in the way of the dropper AND I can't even fit a 16 Oz bottle on it. Keep up the good work on the channel !

[@hardtailparty]

I'm glad to hear you love your Roscoe 7. It's 100x better than my first MTB. Congrats.

[@georgiaguardian4696]

I really like your review on the wheels and trails. Too many other KZbinrs try to go fancy and deliver too much useless information.

[@hardtailparty]

Thanks George

[@yo_marc]

What an awesome review - best I’ve seen on any bike; so much quality detail and feedback. I was/am in the market for a FS bike like a Fuel Ex or Top Fuel, and test rode a Roscoe 7 on a whim. So glad I did - the bike just clicked for me. So here I am on the tube seeing what kind of jank this bike can handle and if it’s decent for New England rocks and roots. If it can handle what I just witnessed here, I think I have my answer.

[@hardtailparty]

Thank you for the kind words. I strive to make the best reviews I can.

[@sandman7199]

Thanks for your ride/review. I’m hopefully just about to get my 2022 Roscoe 7, in August 2022, upgraded from a 2021 while waiting for delivery thanks to COVID (a year waiting so far). Absolutely biting at the bit, can’t wait. Keep spinnin an grinning! 🤟

[@harolddenton6031]

Cool review. I just moved back to northeast Tennessee to live. Just bought a trek marlin 8 mtn bike to learn how to ride mtn bikes again. Being a big guy at 300 lbs i am getting into mtn biking yo help me lose weight so I can get back up in the smoky mountains and cherokee national forest to begin doing section hikes on the AT. But I also want a more advanced hard tail mtn bike. I like the specialized and the salsa timber jack. I hear that that Santa Cruz also makes good hard tail mtn bikes.

[@sepultubob]

Thanks a lot Steve. I hope you're doing better healthwise. I've got a Orbea dealer and no Trek dealer close to where I live, would you say that the Laufey and the Roscoe are more or less the same bikes ? I feel in your reviews that you enjoyed the Roscoe a lot more, am I wrong ?

[@hardtailparty]

They ride quite differently, I don't feel like they're more or less the same.

[@sepultubob]

@@hardtailparty Thank you, I'm gonna try to jump on one of these.

[@jayderwin1]

Hole saw the size of that ID of that seat post and extension will fix that dropper problem

[@ShadLife]

Interesting. I am 5' 7" with a 30" inseam and I run small frames. 420 is about the sweet spot for reach for me. But I also don't like slack 65 degree head angles. 67 or so feels way better to me. But I still ride BMX bikes so ..........🤣

[@dropmatty]

So im 5'-6" and used to ride a 2019 Roscoe 8 before I sold it. It was a size small and it was too small. I would absolutely notice it on rides above 10miles - my body would hurt in so many areas that it wouldn't on my other size M bikes. I have been looking at the new Roscoe 9 because despite the lack of comfort on my old too-small roscoe, it was still one of the most fun bikes I've ridden, I think if it was an M I wouldn't have even thought about selling

[@michaelguerrera1463]

Which one come with the pro series bonte's. I'm trying to find one with carbon wheels to save some weight

[@simonsays5979]

When you talked about the specs on the bike, you mentioned that 4 piston calipers aren't always better that 2 piston. What were your thoughts on the braking ability of the 9, especially for bigger people?

[@josipgrguric5706]

I have a Trek Roscoe 9 for a couple of months, and only problem is handlebar stiffness. What is yours opinion about 35 vs. 31.8 aluminium handlebar on hardtails? I'm thinking about buying 31.8 PNW range handlebars and some new 45 mm stem. Great channel Steve! I wish you well!

[@christophercampbell5742]

Always fun and educational! When will the Passila Junta review hit?

[@hardtailparty]

I don't have an exact release date. I've got a handful of videos i need to release, and that's one of them.

[@baddriversofcolga]

That's surprising about the dropper. My sister's small Polygon Siskiu T8 came with a 150mm dropper, which is actually too much for her size, but nonetheless... The terrain and flora on that trail are so cool.

[@garrettsmith8286]

Good job Trek for listening.

[@CalvoSaitama]

Well I have the 2020 Roscoe 6, I think I need this one now, I love hardtails, maybe I'll buy the 7 thanks for the video and the great information

[@jonzylka9474]

I have a 2020 stache 9.7 which I absolutely love! Just a ripper of a hard tail. Now d/c it almost seems as if trek tried to fill that void with this version of the rosco. 29er and 2.6 tires…. Stache was a 29er with 3.0. 🤔

[@dgprew]

Please try review a Merida Big Trail to add to reviewed HT from big bike companies. Modern geo, no bottle mounts on ST but still space for two bottles + tools. Looks interesting.

[@hardtailparty]

I've tried to get one, but no luck.

[@marcstolk6682]

I have the Big Trail 500 and its a ripper. Way better value over the Roscoe too IMHO, and a short Seat tube - although its known to be a tad short and sizing up is recommended. I ride the small with no issues (161cm I am). Very compliant frame.

[@davidh7414]

Steve is in the USA. I don't think Merida sell the big.trail in that market.

[@marcstolk6682]

@@davidh7414 yeh they don't. Merida half own Specialized and I believe there's an agreement there about Merida not selling in the USA. I also believe Merida Manufactures the Specialized frame - i could be wrong but I did read that somewhere.

[@davidh7414]

@@marcstolk6682 I like the twin bottle on the down tube design. long dropper insertion!

[@simonsays5979]

I ended up moving the stem to the top of the spacers then getting 50mm rise 800mm wide bars and that ended up making my upper body position ideal

[@willhenley8284]

Looks like the newest version of the Roscoe 6 is sporting the same frame as the 7, 8, and 9. Does this change make the Roscoe 6 the best buy it, ride it now, upgrade later option for the Roscoe line up? Love your channel. Praying for medical condition.

[@JXI0I]

Nah the 7 is definitely best for money

[@mr.steebs5070]

I had a Roscoe 8 ordered, but something threw me off and I cancelled the order. Oh wait, I got a Ragley for $1699, and love it, and the 150mm dropper. Nonetheless, great review, thanks for reminding me why I got a Ragley! (mmmmmmmbop)

[@mrskibum885]

for waterbottle mounts it seems so easy. vassago has it figured out, they weld a bolt onto the frame, and then the nut threads on. perfect clearance. i'm able to run a 185mm dropper on a size M frame completely slammed. with no issues

[@hardtailparty]

My nruhaus has the same thing. Simple solution.

[@wjmoxey]

Don't know if I missed it but would this be like for bikepacking and long days of riding? Sounds like changing the tires might help with long pedal stretches. Thanks for doing actual ride reviews!

[@evamarek5205]

My 2022 Roscoe 7 is coming soon and I can hardly wait!!! A perfect bike for an intermediate rider. 😊

[@Jose-sy1je]

How has that bike been working out for ya?

[@SCnative64]

Steve, do you know if there's going to be a 2024 Roscoe of the same level that will have fixed the seat height and shortish dropper issue?

[@BullyGovJ4F7775]

just picked up a Roscoe 9 for $1800 from a trek employee from Wisconsin. I install windows on vehicles and saw the roscoe in his garage. Long story short hes a road biker and supposedly designs bikes for trek, and hes not into trail bikes at all. it was given to him on release and never rode it further than his drive way. when he said $1800 I bought it without thinking. not a spec of dust or dirt it was brand new.

[@alaefarmestatesllc]

Score! I’d pass by his house weekly lol

[@L4J20]

Shooo, those were some spicy runs! Also, I’m always impressed with your audio and commentary while riding. Sometimes I think that you must have over dubbed the voiceover, but that’s not the case. LOVE Hardtail Party 🤘

[@hardtailparty]

Thanks. I don't have the patience for overdubbing and i feel like talking while riding is the best way to call out what I'm feeling as it happens

[@alamiantrebreloni9045]

Can we have a merida big trail review?

[@francoisvilleneuve5341]

Beautiful video and wonderful lanscapes. Where is it ? I think I'm gonna buy this bike which seems to be playful

[@hardtailparty]

Arizona

[@JohnFabriele]

Great review. I went with an 8 (that’s all they had) and wound up upgrading the fork to a Pike Ultimate.

[@nicks3456]

I’m confused. Is it the Roscoe platform that makes it a beginner bike? Would race spec be the next step or is there a range between?

[@dorianonthebike8448]

Thanks Steve, great and detailed review! I would never buy such a bike when Stanton, Canfield, Ragley, Pipedream, Nukeproof, Pace, Rsd etc. exist. I find most of these huge brand's hardtails somewhat underwhelming... But I enjoyed looking at you riding this Trek a lot! Party must go on!

[@hardtailparty]

we've sure got a lot of great hardtails to choose from these days.

[@karlosxzy]

Price and availability is a major factor why people buy from a major brand. In many countries it's very difficult to source a boutique hardtail bike.

[@dorianonthebike8448]

@@karlosxzy That's very true. I would buy from a huge brand if I had no choice. Obviously, Trek or Merida hardtail is much better than no hardtail at all!

[@Nick-y1v7e]

Thanks for the review, how do you think this bike would fare with a lighter set of wheels and maybe 2.4 tires? Im thinking of getting the Roscoe 8/9 and using it as an all rounder with a 2nd of wheels and tires for faster performance, but agree that the tires hindered performance here. Curious if this would be worthwhile for possible xc experiments like the RSD/banshee

[@시장의자정작용]

I had a good time watching the video. I plan to buy Roscoe 9, but is it difficult to climb?

[@JoshTaylor]

Would reducing travel to a 130mm fork be crazy? Slightly steeper STA, longer reach, still in the sub-66 HTA I'm guessing, and BB drop probably 8-9mm lower? Compensate the stack w a 30-35mm riser bar...

[@caseyas8572]

The 6 is very similar to my DB Mason. The bike is a lot of fun and really got me into mtb but man it frustrates that it can't be slacker and longer for the same components and price.

[@zackloucks6836]

Interesting timing on this review. It seems similar to your Nimble 9 review which is one of my all time favorites, and I happen to be taking a position with Trek this month. Probably ought to snag myself a Roscoe at some point.

[@hardtailparty]

Better hurry, they're tough to get. Congrats on the new job. The N9 is longer in the reach and steeper in the HTA.

[@Jose-sy1je]

I got the Roscoe 8 instead of the 9. Kind of have some regrets, but the 9 is already sold out. Hope I'll like the 8.

[@bmwm3man]

How's it going with the 8?

[@davidbonnieux9018]

Hi Steve ! I want to change my bike this year ,i ´ve got a 2020 Ragley Bigal in M size , i love it but i think that the reach is a little short for me (i ´m 1m76) . Do you think the Roscoe ML would be a good option for me ? The Roscoe seems to be less confortable than the Ragley, isn’t it?

[@hardtailparty]

I do my bike consultation/advice over on patreon.. I'd love to help you over there. patreon.com/hardtailparty. You'll need to sign up for the consultation tier.

[@peterstull7874]

question: should i get this, the santa cruz chameleon, or the nukeproof scout 290. Which one is best?

[@hardtailparty]

One isn't best at everything. It'll all depend on what you want to do and what characteristics you want out of your next bike. I provide bike advice/consultation over on patreon. I'd be happy to help you over there. Patreon.com/hardtailparty

[@markvalentine7264]

Which Santa Cruz Chameleon are you referencing in comparison during this video? The '21 AL, 21' Carbon, or '22 AL? Thanks in advance!

[@hardtailparty]

'22 al

[@RyanMelnick]

What do you believe is inferior regarding the fork on the Roscoe 8? You mentioned it very briefly, and would love for you to elaborate if you could.

[@hardtailparty]

The rockshox 35 isn't a great fork. I had high hopes for it, but it does not feel refined, feels a bit harsh, and isn't very smooth. It doesn't have the control of this fork. And this isn't me hating on rockshox, I love the pikes and lyriks, but the Fox Rhythm 36 on the 9 is a MUCH better feeling fork. The rockshox will get you by for a year or two, but forks are EXPENSIVE to upgrade, so I'd either go for a 7 and upgrade the fork, or get a 9 and ride it as is.

[@RyanMelnick]

@@hardtailparty you're the man for the response. much appreciated, love your insight.

[@michaelbowler565]

Do you have any opinions on the on one hello Dave?

[@jojo-dn7qb]

ha! i have a 2020 roscoe 6. love it. upgrade as you go. dropper post and forks done….now the drive train

[@oklahotb3217]

I've been waiting for this one for a while lol. Those Bontrager Line 30 Comp wheels are a great bargin. I've had a couple of sets and have been very happy with them.

[@monkey.business5958]

I've got one on order. Can't wait.

[@VirtualWoodshed]

Super interesting, thanks! Was pretty much sold the aluminum Middle Child but this is a real nice option. I’m 5’7”, 155lbs, 44yo, been riding two years in Richmond VA. Plenty of blues and black diamonds, small jump lines, pump track, some technical rooty climbs, flow trails, but there’s nothing to really “bomb” around here. I’d miss the RSD’s longer dropper but the specs on the Roscoe are pretty hot. Decisions decisions…

[@adamjenkins79]

Did you ever get a Roscoe? I too ride in the Richmond area, mainly Pocahontas state park. On the fence about a Roscoe

[@VirtualWoodshed]

@@adamjenkins79 hey Adam. No, I wound up going with a steel middlechild and I absolutely love it. Maybe would have gotten slightly better components, particularly the wheel set, if I had gone with the Roscoe or Fuse, but I love the geometry of the RSD. And I can always upgrade the wheels down the line. The DVO fork that comes on the RSD is also incredible. Good luck!

[@wyric]

After your review decided to visit Trek's website to check specs and... There is a frame only option in Europe. Going to visit my local shop tomorrow and try to order the frame.

[@hardtailparty]

Awesome to hear! I don't see that in the US, but hopefully it makes its way here.

[@nicholkid]

A Roscoe 7 with brake + fork upgrades would probably be the most budget friendly option. The 9 has a great spec, but the price is kind of absurd for a hardtail.

[@hardtailparty]

prices have been going up like crazy. I guess a lot of people see hardtails as budget bikes, but I see them as the ideal choice on a lot of terrain and worth spending a good amount on if it suits your riding.

[@aaronmacdougall9631]

I am on the fence between the 7 and the 8. The upgraded hub might sell me on the 8.

[@dirtyforksmtb]

@@aaronmacdougall9631 hey there, I’m just some random internet guy but I would go for the 8 if you can. Price wise the 8 is a couple hundred more but you have better 4 piston brakes and a larger diameter stanchion fork. While I’m not a big fan of the NX and GX drivetrain in the 8 it is still good and reliable. Also not to mention the rapid drive 108 hub on the 8 as well. In the long run you’ll end up saving money on upgrades if you go with the 8.

[@Mike-up6go]

From what I have learned the Roscoe 9's Fox Rhythm 36 fork is an OEM fork. You can only get it on a complete bike. If you would purchase a similar Fox fork it will set you back a little over a grand. Add the way better 6120 brakes and somewhat better Shimano XTderailleur, a 35 mm handlebar make the roscoe 9 a pretty sweet package. Personally , I feel the Roscoe 7's fork with 32 mm stanchions is a bit thin unless you are a smaller , lighter rider. I came close to biting on the 7 , but in the end went with the 9. Just got it, still waiting on the pedals to arrive at my door.

[@kurtkehren830]

@@Mike-up6go I have the 7 the shimano mt200 brakes arnt enough for trail

[@jonathancraig1738]

Such a great channel and brilliant watching for anyone going back to a modern hardtail. Like me. I am torn between M and M/L at 5'8 and a bit. LBS only has M/L and the seatpost collar is slammed. But seems good otherwise. Just worried reach will be too long on trail v spinning around carpark. Any thoughts given your comments about sizing?

[@hilarious_metabolism]

I'm in between ML and L. I am 5'11". I tried both in a shop recently and the L felt just right. It was especially better when riding standing up. So I would suggest trying them out if possible to make sure, but sizing up seems better

[@SuperGee75]

Bicycle shaped object - that got me in stitches 😂🤣😂🤣