Ibis Ripmo AF NX // $3000 Bike Showdown

[@radagascar1]

This is the best under the radar MTB channel right now! Keep it up. Hopefully I can swing by the shop one day and get some swag

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks! We are trying to make it the best "above the radar" MTB channel. Stop by the shop if you can. We'd love to see you!

[@philippeletendre8989]

You guys built me one (XT version) and I'm loving it, just a solid bike all around, It's gonna be a fun season!

[@bikersedge]

Stoked. Such a good bike.

[@alexlaventure8968]

Just got my Ripmo Af GX in a week ago, while a little heavy this monster is amazing. I am a size M and it is far more nimble and composed than I expected. Your review is spot on compared to my experience on this so far.

[@bikersedge]

Glad you're liking it. Ibis did a great job with this one.

[@TheRealJoeMP]

Did you go coil or air shock?

[@alexlaventure8968]

Opted for the air shock, and I feel it was the right choice for me. The crazy amount of customization makes it first rate. I have only been able to use 145 of my 147mm of travel and that was off a 5 foot drop.

[@pedrog4398]

How much does your med bike weigh?

[@alexlaventure8968]

@@pedrog4398 35.6Lbs OR 16.14Kg

[@naser5545]

Not sure if there are any in stock, but definitely looking to buy the ripmo af NX. Do you guys have any in stock, or recommend a place where i may be able to purchase one?

[@DigsDirtDigsMusic]

I'd love to hear a comparison between the Ripmo AF and the Sentinel Alloy! Ripmo AF NGX and Sentinel Alloy NX are at roughly the same price point but the Sentinel GX is +$1000. Curious to know ride differences and value comparison.

[@harris7772]

Yeah I think after watching all 4 of them I would definitely go with hightower 👍

[@bikersedge]

Not a bad call.

[@Micarmn]

Great review. So which would you go with? Ripmo v1 or ripmo af

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks. I’d probably take the AF for the slacker geo.

[@mickfromrocky]

I ordered one of these in the raw/silver colour way a few weeks ago . Can’t wait to get it dirty 🤘. This review just confirmed my excitement 😃.

[@bikersedge]

You're going to dig it. So good.

[@repp181]

how do you like it?

[@mickfromrocky]

Guillaume Letellier love it. The bike is way better than I thought . It’s a beast going down and a tractor heading up . It has definately made me a better rider .

[@repp181]

@@mickfromrocky I'm glad you're happy with your bike. I was planning on buying the Ripmo next year but I haven't decide which one yet.

[@benlatimer]

Love the videos! Really good reviews and I really enjoy this showdown series.

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks! Glad you're enjoying them. We will try to do more showdowns in the future.

[@mbreeswine]

@@bikersedge don't know if you're still replying on this video but thinking of getting this bike I'm 5'9". Website recommends a Large. What do you think. My current bikes reach is 460..L Cannondale trigger. Thanks.

[@brent_s]

Agreed that the assegais are anchors. Great traction, but the first couple times out, I really noticed the drag. Waiting on some 2.6 vittoria agarros to arrive.

[@bikersedge]

Nice. Never ridden those. Let us know what you think.

[@usamade5943]

Love your reviews. I'm looking at either a Giant Trance 29'er aluminium or the Ripmo AF. If you had to go with 1 of these bikes which one would you choose and why? Thanks

[@bikersedge]

Very different bikes. The Trance is on the lighter duty side of things while the Ripmo is heavier duty. For how I like to ride a bike, I'd probably go Ripmo as it will handle rougher terrain at higher speeds better. The Trance is great for smoother terrain. I raced a marathon xc event on the Trance a few years ago.

[@usamade5943]

@@bikersedge Thanks for the reply. Your reviews are some of my favorites. Keep up the good work.

[@bikersedge]

@@usamade5943 So glad you like them! Thanks for the kind words.

[@sford1320]

Just replaced my Trance for the Ripmo AF, my riding had not progressed on the trance, needed a more capable bike to elevate my tech downhill riding. The AF is awesome, climbs fine also.

[@noonster55]

I'm looking at this bike not sure if I should go with the large or x large. I'm usually in between sizes. I'm a hair over 6 feet tall with short legs all long torso. You mentioned this one is an xl. How tall are you? There are no stores selling that bike where I live, so I would have to order one.

[@bikersedge]

If you can find a demo somewhere that would be best. It’s always a little scary giving sizing recommendation over the Internet. Folks are all built so different. I’ll say this. I’m 6,2” and feel like I’m closer to the top end of XL than the short end. If you went XL, having short legs wouldn’t be too much of an issue because of the great dropper post clearance. I’d lean towards XL but take that with a grain of salt.

[@Eric-xx3mb]

How tall are you? I see you chose the XL. I'm interested in the Ripmo, but at 6'1" (6'2" with shoes) I'm between sizes.

[@bikersedge]

I’m 6’2”. The XL fits like a glove.

[@hmillz941]

Did you get a chance to test a build with the coil shock? If so, does the climbing ability take a huge hit?

[@bikersedge]

I rode one briefly. Not enough to give a fair opinion. Climbing almost always takes a hit with a coil shock. The DW link suspension is very efficient so the negative effects of the coil shock should be minimized, though. There's always going to be a weight penalty.

[@bryanjanson2813]

I do most of my riding around Davis and Weber counties (BST, Snow Basin, North Fork, PowMow, etc.). Do you think this bike is over kill?

[@bikersedge]

Not at all. I think if you're riding hard enough, it's impossible to be over-biked. Now, if you're just taking it easy and cruising, not necessarily trying to be fast or ride tech at speed, or you're not an aggressive rider, then you could get away with something more like the Occam.

[@mikecito1717]

How's the climbing and flattish trail riding vs the Reign 2? (I'm 6'2" and 240 on good day) looking for a great all arounder that won't klll me on the PNW climbing and can handle regular small jumps and drops.

[@bikersedge]

Have you checked out our comparison video? We talked about that exact stuff. Look for the Reign 2 video and the Round table video.

[@lvirag8401]

what america needs right frakkin' now: zach from bikers edge and the horns high guy go around righting wrongs and ridin' mountain bikes and scarin' the squares.

[@mkemvp32]

I swapped out the minions that came on my AF for some Michelin Wild Enduros in 2.4. Made a very noticeable difference in rolling resistance. Much better

[@bikersedge]

I wish our AF came with minions. They’re shipping with Assegais now. Grippy but slow.

[@rapatao133]

Thinking about either the Ripmo AF with the SLX or the Orbea M30? Don't know much about components so I don't which one offers the best. Both are $4000. I know the Orbea is carbon. Suggestions please!!

[@bikersedge]

In terms of components they’re pretty similar. The biggest difference is the suspension on the Ripmo AF will be a lot more tuneable than what comes on the Occam at that price. As far as how each bikes rides they are pretty different. The Occam is lighter and quicker for climbing. The Ripmo is more capable on the downhills.

[@ericpaz2854]

Loved the informative review. This video further makes my decision harder. Stuck between this or the New Mojo 4. Can the Mojo 4 handle an occasional park day? It climbs much better and suits more of my riding but want something capable of park days

[@bikersedge]

Our Mojo 4 should be here any day. Stay tuned.

[@ericpaz2854]

Biker's Edge oh I’m waiting! It’s atop my list as my do-all bike.

[@josehurtado7822]

It’s hard for me make my mind 😂 ripmo af or Hightower al D 😆 ? My trails are pretty much rocky (bootleg canyon, bear canyon . Las Vegas ) Which one would be the best for them ? Helpppp!!!! 😝

[@seangubera7963]

jose hurtado From what I know the Ripmo AF is probably a better option. It has a much better fork, shock, drivetrain and brakes.

[@josehurtado7822]

Sean Gubera dudeeee now you made me change my mind 😆 and I think you’re right !!! I check the brakes the from and the shocks and it’s a huge difference!! Damnnn I think I’m going for Ripmo AF 😂.

[@welcometoSL]

What tires would you recommend for this bike that are similar traction, but faster rolling? I live along the wasatch front, so riding similar terrain as the BE guys.

[@bikersedge]

I'd take a Minion DHF/DHR combo. That works really well for around here. I go into the topic more on the website. The link is in the video description.

[@stevenbrideau3741]

I am getting Ripmo AF Deore in Feb.wanted higher drivetrain, but cost is too much. Ill upgrade later.

[@dkumagai30]

The SLX trim is a lower value. I got the Deore with the intention of upgrading to XT. It will still end up being cheaper than the SLX build, but I just won't have the bike yoke dropper. Honestly, you don't really need it IMO. It rides great stock.

[@stevenbrideau3741]

@@dkumagai30 I didn't see that option when I was looking and sadly the cost to get it to me was too high. So went with a LBS brand and am getting a Scott Genius.

[@joshmarks3954]

@@dkumagai30 I’m getting a deore build with fox factory and bike yoke dropper, raceface stem and bars. Will upgrade to xt when the deore stuff is dead. Apparently the 21’ deore is good stuff made in Japan again.

[@NDemanuele1]

The Guide T brakes aren't that good. I recently got a V1 Ripmo, NX build and already upgraded them to SLX 4 Piston. The T's just don't have enough braking power, IMO. Eventually, I'll switch out my tires. Which tires do you recommend or would you recommend on the AF?

[@bikersedge]

I agree on the Guide T’s. I pretty much only run Codes on any bike. As for tires it’s tough to beat a Minion DHF/DHR combo. Pretty much as grippy as the Assegai and they roll way faster.

[@NDemanuele1]

@@bikersedge Wow, that was fast! Also, how narrow do you suggest going? Someone stated in a thread below that they're running 2.3s? I run those on my Ripley! I was thinking of keeping a 2.5 up front and a 2.4 in the rear. I live in NorCal. Thanks again!

[@bikersedge]

I like the 2.5/2.4 DHF DHR combo. It’s a good balance between speed and grip.

[@Paoloskyxrd]

You guys make the best bike reviews👍🏼

[@bikersedge]

Thanks for the kind words! Glad you like them. Feel free to share with your bike friends.

[@fkuashum]

Great video and an informative talk, thanks crew! What did this build weigh at? With or without pedals? Thanks!

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks! It weighs 35.2 without pedals

[@fkuashum]

@@bikersedge Oh shoot... This is definitely not your daily-driver aggressive trail bike, by no means despite all the claimed climbing prowess. Thanks!

[@bikersedge]

@@fkuashum It's heavy for sure. Weight isn't the entire story for how well a bike climbs though. It's so damn efficient that you really don't struggle all that much on the climbs. If weight is a big concern, you can get the Carbon Ripmo V2 around 28lb. It will cost you more than double though.

[@jediorion1124]

@@bikersedge could you just lighten the bike up a bit with a decent wheelset down the line

[@bonedale]

Picked this bike up in the NX build as well. The tires are slow AF on the uphill and flats. Not sure anything but a DH bike should be spec’d with those, anyway I’m too cheap to replace both so will be throwing faster rubber on the rear. I think 3k bikes are buy and ride til they die class of bikes. Don’t buy an aluminum squish and replace suspension or wheels or group set, because if you play that game, you should always start with carbon frame.

[@bikersedge]

Agreed on the tires. There are much better options out there. I'm half tempted to build up an alloy bike with high end suspension, wheels and components. I like the way the alloy frame rides compared to the carbon. It's quieter and smoother in the bumps. I don't mind the extra weight.

[@bonedale]

@@bikersedge Great thought! It would be very interesting to compare the Ripmo AF and Ripmo V2 with the exact same high-end parts throughout.

[@bikersedge]

Now there’s an idea. Let me see what I can do about that.

[@radagascar1]

You said you think there are other tires with similar grip and better rolling... What are they? Minions?

[@bikersedge]

Presactly.

[@A.D.D.O.C.D.T]

Excellent review ,subbed 🙏🔥

[@bikersedge]

Much appreciated!

[@TonyPuleo1]

Thank You...That was a good video.

[@shmulikeilat]

Hi, you said you were riding the XL frame, what is your height?

[@bikersedge]

We are all between 6’2 and 6’3”

[@radagascar1]

Any thoughts on the Diamond fork vs 36 Grip 1?

[@bikersedge]

The Diamond is really nice especially if you like to tweak your suspension. It can be tough to dial in and there’s something to be said about the simplicity of the Fox. It’s tough to tell them apart when it comes to stiffness. Don’t know if there’s too much of a difference.

[@anthonycorcella7300]

Can you actually get one, or are they back ordered forever?

[@AFWeather]

I just put in an order for one today at my local bike shop and Ibis says expect it mid-Sept. Not ideal, but I get it exactly how I want it.

[@AreYouCalm10]

@@AFWeather yup im getting mine at the end of August

[@Micarmn]

great video af! what tires do you recommend for the swap?

[@bikersedge]

Personally I like Maxxis Minions I’m just about every bike.

[@Micarmn]

Biker's Edge dhf or dhr2?

[@bikersedge]

@@Micarmn Both. DHF front and DHRII rear.

[@Micarmn]

Biker's Edge awesome! size (width)?

[@bikersedge]

Depends on the bike but I like anywhere from 2.3-2.5"

[@haggy9420]

Is the Fox Float 36 grip 2 factory fork and Fox Float Factory X2 Shock upgrade worth it on the 2021 model??

[@bikersedge]

I would bet that most riders couldn’t tell the difference. Correct setup is probably more important. That said, the upgrade price is pretty good.

[@Striveon247]

Witch bike do you like better the Ripmo AF or Giant Reing 29er 2

[@bikersedge]

Our testers were about split on this exact question. I preferred the Reign for how I like to ride while the other two testers preferred the Ripmo.

[@jarvs8630]

Some viewers especially me, comparing the AF to the new Occam what can you say about it. This channel has a good informative content KUDOS! Cheers!

[@bikersedge]

Thanks for watching! They are quite different actually. Did you watch the one we just released on the Occam yesterday. That should give you a solid understanding of the differences. The Occam is much more of a trail bike through and through while the Ripmo AF is all-mountain/enduro. If you get after it on the DH, the Ripmo will be more appropriate. If you just cruise and aren't hitting trails as fast and hard as you can, the Occam will be better suited.

[@jarvs8630]

@@bikersedge thanks Mate. yep I am a fan of your channel so I have seen most of your videos. I am considering both , they are both good for what they are intended to do. which do you think has more price value?

[@bikersedge]

@@jarvs8630 If you consider the suspension on the Ripmo retails at $1500, you can't really argue that it's the best value. The Occam is nice with the XT/SLX drivetrain, but I think the Ripmo wins the value award.

[@radagascar1]

@@bikersedge interesting. I would think the Fox Performance with Grip 1 would be similar to the Diamond.

[@jarvs8630]

@@bikersedge thanks mate. cheers

[@kakusei3672]

3800 including taxes here in California 2022 ngx build!

[@bikersedge]

Yeah. Luckily the Deore is still 3400.

[@Dogmeat26]

I'm 6'0 so in between sizes. Do you recommend sizing up or down?

[@bikersedge]

At 6’0” I would probably recommend a large. It’s always best to go see them in person and get a feel for them though.

[@Dogmeat26]

@@bikersedge Thanks for the reply. Would love to but everyone is sold out and they want me to order it. Love the videos keep them coming!

[@bikersedge]

Ahhh. That makes sense. I don’t know if you’re in our area but we have demos you could try to find the right size.

[@matth8924]

This or the aluminum d build santa cruz hightower?

[@bikersedge]

All our thoughts on that are found in the wrap up video for this series. Check that out.

[@izzyboss6875]

I’m interested in this bike but being in Australia means we get screwed for price. Our GX build is $7690.00. I really like the reviews of the bike but I can get a Commencal with full fox factory in XT spec for $7.5k....... I just don’t get why these manufacturers charge so much for base bikes here in Australia, I’m sure most people, myself included, would love to try one at around the $5-5.5k mark but $7.5k????? Sorry to whinge, Australia tax sucks.

[@bikersedge]

Yeah that's pretty rough. I'd be pretty bummed out.

[@joshmarks3954]

I’m picking up my deore fox factory build on sat-$6500 aud. But yep aussies get bent over price wise.

[@svssvs9848]

what is your opinion about the brakes?

[@bikersedge]

I don't love them. They lack adjustments and the levers don't feel great. They work, but If I could upgrade them, I would.

[@cliffsangelsphotography]

Love my Ripmo v1. But those Assegai front/rear really bog you down. Went with a 2.3 Aggressor and 2.4 Dissector and been happy since I love these showdowns you're doing. It's great that you're focusing on 3k builds.

[@bikersedge]

Thanks for the kind words. I'm convinced that Ibis bought a million of those things and are trying to get rid of them. They come on almost every bike they make. Not a very good all around tire.

[@NDemanuele1]

I just got a Ripmo V1. I assume you're running a 2.3 out back? Isn't that too narrow? Thanks.

[@cliffsangelsphotography]

@@NDemanuele1 I have a different wheelset than stock. Running WTB KOM Light i29.

[@gasperbeskovnik9340]

In the EU thise bikes are 3500-4000 range🙃

[@bikersedge]

Ouch.

[@dantribby199]

From all the reviews, it seems there is little reason to buy anything but a Ripmo AF. Also if you want one, better get on a waiting list.

[@bikersedge]

It’s a great bike. That’s one of the difficulties with Ibis. They can be a little tricky to come by.

[@baddriversofcolga]

I hate that this bike came out right after I got my bike. It seems like such a sweet bike overall. Just wish it had a Shimano drivetrain at the $3k price point. Probably will next year.

[@bikersedge]

Well you could always have a second new bike day this year!

[@baddriversofcolga]

@@bikersedge Haha!

[@patriotfirst]

Great review, how well did the dog hold up? Lol

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks. The dog is a shredder! Makes us all look slow.

[@patriotfirst]

@@bikersedge Yea I could tell it was having fun. Really great video.

[@wst3968]

I have a deore build coming this week.

[@bikersedge]

Rad! You're going to love it.

[@ryanpinon564]

How do I get that bike (XL with NX build)?! I’m sold.

[@bikersedge]

Come in and see us. We will get it taken care of.

[@ryanpinon564]

Only problem I live in So Cal. Do you deliver?

[@bikersedge]

In that case you'll have to hit up your nearest Ibis dealer.

[@jamesSmith-bn3ud]

Is this bike red or orange

[@bikersedge]

Rorange

[@BMfins]

Almost smacked that dog! Where in Kaysville were you?

[@bikersedge]

Otis is good at dodging bikes. This is at the fruit loops and east mountain wilderness park networks.

[@BMfins]

Biker's Edge Otis ftw!

[@pepeanza6187]

What are you saying asagai in the front is the best tire right now the front tire don't affect to much climbing all the traction comes from the rear tire,you don't say which tire is in the back it should be a minion DHR one of the best rear tire so probably is shock set up maybe to much sag or you are out of shape that set up whit that bike should climb excellent

[@bikersedge]

I’m going to have to disagree with you there. I’ll take a set of Minions all day. Assegais are just way too slow. Especially for both front as back like Ibis stocks on this bike. But thanks for calling me out of shape! I’ll race you up a hill any day. I’ll even use Assegai tires.

[@radagascar1]

Plot twist: It's Nino Schurter you just challenged 😂

[@MXKID441]

What would be a better buy. A ripmo AF SLX build or a ripmo v2 deore build? I wish someone would do a back to back review of the AF VS Carbon. Is the bike worth $1k more to go carbon and fox suspension ?

[@bikersedge]

We basically just made a video answering that exact question. I used different bikes but the answer should still be the same. Go check it out.

[@havenoutdoors584]

Hi Zach, I sent you a message on your Instagram about tires.

[@bikersedge]

I'll let him know.

[@orestisvas7277]

Its a shame its almost 4k for the base model now

[@bikersedge]

Agreed. That is a bummer. And unfortunately it’s not just bikes that are expensive these days.

[@orestisvas7277]

@@bikersedge yeah covid left its mark too making it even worse. But sles are still a thing:)

[@hmillz941]

What trail is this?

[@bikersedge]

A combo of Fruit Loops network and the East Mountain Wilderness Park in Kaysville.

[@brent_s]

How tall are you?

[@bikersedge]

6'2"

[@SK-ps1mo]

Iam Australian i do like this bike tho 🤙

[@bikersedge]

Do Ibis bikes not work in Australia?

[@brendanriel888]

Dude almost ran into his dog

[@bikersedge]

Otis is really good at staying out of the way.

[@Striveon247]

this bike or the yeti 130

[@bikersedge]

Dang. Tough call. The SB130 feels more firm and supportive throughout the entire stroke. The Ripmo is a little more plush but equally as capable. They both climb very well and can ride a wide variety of DH terrain. Don't think you can go wrong either way. Maybe a back to back test is in order.

[@Striveon247]

@@bikersedge Thank you bro Looking forward to that video Thanks for replying back love your channel good work