Reviewing the Ibis Ripmo V2s- how does it compare?

[@aaronburela432]

Can't wait to see you shred that new HD6

[@sham8723]

This

[@peterscott4183]

I've been MTBing for 27 years and the Ripmo is by far the best bike I've ever ridden. I'm continually surprised and delighted by how well it rides and feels.

[@MrSupermugen]

if you think the Ripmo is good... wait untill you try some other bikes, they will knock your socks off.

[@IIISentorIII]

@@MrSupermugen yea those guys have zero clue, everyone just is just copy paste the same BS they hear. I guess it's fine since they seem to be happy so what do I care ;). A lot of people have problems trying new stuff out of there bubble world in general.

[@LastAphelion]

@@MrSupermugen What bikes? Arrival has been at the top of my list to try but I always love more suggestions

[@akb88576]

V1 blue/orange, Fox 36 Grip2 orange, DPX2 (from SB130, with Ibis tuning and volume reducer applied), I9 EN310c custom, XT! Something like a HD6 or SB160 is sooo tempting, but your videos helped me to realize that I probably will never need more bike, and always more practice. If that ever changes, V1 will end up in my bike museum!

[@markwoods5080]

Been on the RipmoAF since 2020, after riding mostly CC bikes for the past 20 years. After getting used to the steep seat tube angle and low BB, I absolutely love this bike. I also learned proper jumping technique with this bike, and as I'm moving into larger/faster jumps I could really use something more progressive. I have been eyeing the Cascade link, and this video convinced me to the pull the trigger, as well as trying a smaller air can for my Mara Pro (Thank you!!). I live in Central NC where most of the trails are pedally, but Pisgah is only four hours away and I can ride this bike in both places and not feel under/over biked in either area. It's truly a one-bike quiver for me. Always enjoy your videos, but this one was really great. Keep up the good work!

[@steve_exclamationpoint]

Been riding the V1 Ripmo since 2019 and still love the bike. I live in the midwest and do mtb trips often in the nicer months, so it still feels like a great do it all bike for my local trails and when I travel to ride gnarlier stuff.

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Great feedback. Thanks Glass!

[@Crypto-Ninjaz]

I just got my IBIS RIPMO V2S and love it !! Best bike I have ever had.

[@JeffKendallWeed]

CONGRATS! That's such a good bike!

[@cycling_plurality]

You are so naturally talented at these videos and even more so on a bike. What a wonderful comparison to some of the more popular bikes in Golden CO. These are definitely the most common bikes around these parts and nobody even understands the differences. Thank you!

[@simplemanmtb143]

Your comparison between SB140 and the RipMo was spot on perfect!

[@vincedavis5326]

I have been on a Ripley going on 3 years. Love it; however, have been finding the bottom more lately. A Ripmo with a 36 is already on the way. Thanks for another information packed video!

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Thanks for sharing, Vince! You’ll love the Ripmo- when Id go back and forth between Ripley and Ripmo Id always end up happier on the Ripmo.

[@NDemanuele1]

I'm still on my trusty V1 for over 2 years now! Came from an OG Ripley. I can relate to what JKW mentioned about the Ripley - being overworked. Essentially, the Ripmo 'fills in the blanks' of the Ripley! I loved the Ripley, but the Ripmo descends with authority (98% of the time the Ripley did well here in NorCal) and imo, is almost as nimble and as efficient. I been riding about 15 years altogether. I'm a casual rider and for the most part stick to the trails but do go off short drops and jumps once in awhile. What impresses me most about the Ripmo is how it ''Monster Trucks" over everything in it's path while handling like a Porsche! There are virtually no flaws I can point out but if I had to find one, I think the chainstays can be a little shorter to make it a tad easier to handle corners. Coincidentally, I did demo a Switchblade recently and did notice it handled better, however, I felt better descending on the Ripmo. So, it all comes down to preference. Btw, I was shocked how easy the Switchblade pedaled even with stock DT Swiss hubs. I felt it pedaled easier than my Ripmo with I9s. Not sure what the difference could be off the top of my head? Tires could play a role in this difference, I bet the Geo/chainstay length is slightly different. I'm running Fox Factory and the Switchblade: Rockshox - Lyrik and Deluxe. Someone told me that Rockshox are crushing it these days with their suspension - even better than Fox! I thought it was the other way around! - shows how out of touch I am with the currrent market!...LOL.

[@trajanfpv]

Love my V1 with a short stem, fox 36 factory and dpx2. Has handled everything I have thrown at it (admittedly nothing too crazy) and still see no need to change, have ridden a few of the others that you mentioned and still love my Ripmo.

[@NDemanuele1]

I'm in the same boat! 👍

[@pointtheblame]

6:34 the ease and the flow. Great riding great shot had to rewind and rewatch

[@scottpetersen7698]

Bought my v1 2019 after lots of research and your video sealed the deal. All these years later and I still love it. Its great for trail and med level Enduro. I do have the factory fork and added 2 volume reducers and 1 in the dpx2 rear since I am 240lbs 6' 4" I live in Bellingham so ride what you ride. love my Ripmo. Neighbor had another trail bike and it was stolen and he got the new Ripmo and says its so much better than his last bike.

[@LordWumbology]

Picked up the Jenson ripmo af last week with the electronic shifting. I love it. Spent 3 days on trestle this week with it.

[@MichaelAverycarhauler1969]

I ride a '22 Ripmo AF. Probably somewhere between novice & intermediate as I just started riding again last year after a 30 year hiatus from biking altogether. I'm 54. Love the Ripmo platform, and I believe that the AF is one of the best bang for the buck do it all trail bikes. I ride a fair amount of park in Texas, as well as blue & black singletrack in Colorado. I did change out the DVO Topaz air shock for a Push ElevenSix coil shock. The coil totally changed the way the bike rides. It climbs better, and it just eats the gnar on the descents and begs for more. Love the content, and definitely appreciate the comparison of the Ripmo to some other similar bikes in it's class.

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Thanks for sharing, Michael! Enjoy the AF!!

[@jasonlindquistmedia]

just got a ripmo af 2 weeks ago as my first real nice bike, and im amazed by how much fun it is to ride. plus i got it 25% off. lesgo

[@JeffKendallWeed]

CONGRATULATIONS Jason! And you got a great deal. Enjoy!!!!!

[@nathangriesemer8887]

I rode my ripmo af for about a year and saw load of progression with my riding after switching from an enduro hardtail. The only complaints I had with it was the feeing I got when hitting bigger and bigger features. It lacked the progression when hitting bigger drops and jumps, but was amazing when pedaling and climbing. I saw leaps and bounds In my ascending skills while descending also saw a gain in confidence. I opted to get rid of it for a bike with a bit better rear end and a touch more travel. I hope to get another ibis bike in the future as I loved the look and feel of the bike

[@crumblenoob]

I ended up grabbing a used Ripmo AF as my first MTB at the beginning of last year (largely due to your high praise) and I've been loving it. It's easily more capable than my skills, but it's been great in Santa Cruz, Pacifica, and even the more tame stuff like Calero. I'll likely upgrade to the carbon at some point, but it's been love at first ride for me.

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Great feedback, thanks Mark!

[@chrish1645]

In a similar situation. I got a Ripmo AF when they were doing their big sale in January as my first mountain bike. Like you said, it's definitely more capable than I am. I'm in the North East and it is certainly possible that the Ripley would be more suited to what I ride (not doing crazy downhills). However for almost 1K less because of the sale I went for the Ripmo. It is more than is needed for the trails I can ride, but the extra stability is awesome. I don't take the best lines as I'm still learning, but the Ripmo is great at smoothing things out. I also wish the bottom bracket was a bit higher. However I'm finding that as I get better, I'm hitting it less. I'm at like 210 lbs and need to put spacers in the back shock as well. People will also say that it isn't the lightest bike, but at the price point I was shopping (aluminum frames), having the lightest bike was never going to happen. Also I'm not racing so a couple pounds weight definitely isn't the end of the world. In conclusion, great bike and it should be more than a match for my skills for years. Ripley might be better if you're not hitting the big trails, but I've found that even on the easy stuff, as a newer rider, having the extra travel and stability of the Ripmo is very appreciated. Keep up the great content Jeff.

[@aaronsturm464]

2 months into my Ripmo and love it. It's a perfect bike for the Alps where I ride/call home most of the year. I have found it to be exceptional on the very long and chunky descents. It handles well on steep slabs, and forest-type terrain. The only 2 complaints are that it's not great at the 180-degree tight exposed switchback turns that are found in the Alps (could be my lack of skills on an exposed Euro turn) and the carbon wheels :( Lasted one day in Zermatt. Again, pilot error or too sharp of rocks? But regardless, I was stuck buying a beater rim at Swiss prices and sucking it up to deal with the warranty in 3 months when I get back to the States. The bike is also great for long days 6+ hours of go time...but swap out those stock pads for some Swiss Stop and your hands will thank you.

[@vv_mtblines]

I recently got an Ibis Ripmo AF in dank avocado green from JensonUSA! I was able to use the 30-Day Price Protection and was happy about that too! This is my first full suspension bike and it fits me better than my Co-op DRT 2.1 hardtail, so I’ve definitely been enjoying how it rides.

[@DustinBatchelor]

I bought a V2 Ripmo in November 2020 and I have put 1,200 kms on it. I've upgraded a few parts, but it's my go-to for pretty much all riding with the exception of bike parks. I consider myself an advanced rider, and I have ridden a decent number of bikes. It's by far my favorite bike, and handles everything the Pacific Northwest throws at it (I'm on Vancouver Island). It really taught me to get over the front of the bike and charge through things. When I tested it I was instantly sold on the quick response and strong pedaling dynamics. I have a factory tuned Fox 36 Elite fork, and the Traction Tuned DPX2 shock. TRP trail Evo brakes, Chromag bar + stem, and the factory Ibis wheels.

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Awesome set up Dustin, thank you for sharing!!

[@Fanta4anta]

In the uk. I own a ripmo v2 in blue. Mainly because of you and Brian on bkxc! Awesome bike! Love your vids.

[@craigivison2951]

Always appreciate your thoughts and videos, ripmo af was my first proper bike. It helped me grow into a confident rider. I did sever the head tube on a 10 ft gap in ashland but ibis warrantied it no problem. Ive since upgraded to a carbon salsa blackthorn which is similar in a lot of ways. I have cleaned up the ripmo with plans to sell but it is such a good friend its hard to say goodbye

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Oh no! That’s crazy you broke a Ripmo AF, I’ve sent the ever living day lights out of mine and it’s been fine! Glad you are OK and on a bike you’re enjoying!!!

[@demonsarisingmetal]

I got a new RipMo this February. I’m an intermediate rider and tried the stumpy Evo too. I’m also a very wheels on the ground rider. I came to the RipMo from a Niner Air9 alloy hardtail and I love the RipMo

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Thanks for the feedback Demon!

[@jerryspeedbumps512]

I had the Ripmp AF after being the dream since I saw the mojo carbon monocoque in its reveal back in the days pf the magazine. I got that AF and covid hit. one of only two lift service parks in my area closed and that bike became less of what I wanted. I sold it in less than a couple of months, turned it into appliances for a kitchen reno, killed it in the market, bought north, and a Ripley V4!. Rode that a bit but could tell that id destroy it if I kept riding it as a one bike sorta thing. Tried the Ripley AF until I couldnt forget the V4's magnificence and weight reductions. I ended up selling it all when I ran outta good luck. I intend to be on a Ripmo in carbon capacity. Lightweight and capable. I don't know that theres much better.

[@Alex-gf9oj]

I might be an outlier here but after owning a Ripmo AF for 2 years, I'm not a big fan of it. Yes, it climbs very well for how much travel it has, but it's not the hoverbike I was expecting it to be. It does a great job staying high in the travel while putting power down and pedal bob is almost nonexistent, but it lacks traction in technical climbs. I think there is too much anti-squat at the sag point and most of the progression is in the first 1/3 of the travel. After the sag point it transitions to a linear feel and then regressive in the last portion of travel. I feel like it really lacks support when pushing hard through chunk, fast corners, and jumps (takeoffs and landings). I'm constantly blowing through the travel and the rear end feels unsettled and floppy. The Cascade link helped a little bit but it was just a bandaid. I've tried maxing out the volume spacers, the air bladder pressure in the DVO Topaz, and running 25% sag and this helps somewhat but at this point the lack of traction in technical climbs becomes even worse. I think the Ripmo is trying to be a jack of all trades and ends up being a master of none. Personally, I wish the suspension was a lot more progressive deeper in the travel, with less less anti-squat at the sag point for more traction. I prefer Horst link bikes for these exact reasons. After riding my friend's YT Decoy a few weeks ago, I was reminded of how great it feels to land a jump and be supported by the suspension rather than bottoming out hard. I realized I had adapted my riding style to be very timid of hard compressions and the feeling of a more progressive and supportive suspension platform was eye-opening. I'm now back on a Horst link bike (Norco) and I feel a lot more confident charging fast on downhills. I do miss that feeling of urgency when standing and sprinting but technical climbing is a lot more manageable (and comfortable). That being said, I totally understand why the Ripmo is a great all-arounder for so many people - it's just not my flavor. On the upside, how great is it to be a mountain biker today and have so many great options?

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Great comment Alex, thanks for sharing! I was not a huge fan of the DVO, I had 5 positive volume reducers in it and it was still too easy to bottom- the Marzocchi CR on my new AF has been a lot better. Only using .5 volume reducer ar the moment too! I miss the dW forgiveness on the square edged hits with most Horst link bikes, but agree that Horst is nicely a bit more poppy. Did you ever try a carbon Ripmo V2 or V2S? I wonder if a lot of the sketchiness you don’t like on big hits is actually the AF frame flexing. Fair feedback- I rode a Norco Sight for a day and quite liked it- even made a video about it!

[@Alex-gf9oj]

@JeffKendallWeed I never got the chance to try a carbon Ripmo. You could be right about the frame flex. I bet a different shock or a custom tune would have made a big difference for me. But I'm a sucker and couldn't resist trying a new brand lol. Loving my Optic so far! Keep up the great content! I like how your reviews focus on the riding characteristics and suspension platform - much more insight on how the bike rides than a lot of other channels.

[@MikeesTexas]

Looking forward to hear ing about the AF comparison. I’m curious about your thoughts about installing one of those spacers on top of the crown race to lift the BB a little higher or if you think running the ripmo with a 170mm fork is the ticket for those wanting to raise the bb? Hoping you do some more cascade experiments with the af. And by all means longshock that AF with a 216x63 shock with one 2mm offset bushings in one of the shock eyelets!!!!

[@mrvwbug4423]

Is the 63mm shock what the Ibis EWS team was doing prior to getting the HD6? I honestly wouldn't want much more travel on my Ripmo, I'm at 151mm with the cascade link on my AF. I would want a bit more wheelbase if I were going to go up significantly in travel.

[@MikeesTexas]

@@mrvwbug4423 rumor has it the EWS team was using this shock size, maybe someone more in the know can chime in with more details: special note: only the AF is able to be longshocked with the recipe above/ this cannot be done with the carbon models

[@mrvwbug4423]

@@MikeesTexas I heard the EWS team had custom linkage and yokes on their Ripmos.

[@mrvwbug4423]

Pretty much spot on for how I've felt the Ripmo is too. My main complaints are the vague-ish front end and lack of progression out back (fixed mine with a cascade link). I do find that it finds its limits at the bike park, it definitely doesn't take chunk or braking bumps as smoothly as a full on enduro bike at bike park speeds, but is still very stable and easy to ride at those speeds. IMHO the RIpmo's happy place is a black rated flow trail, it pumps like a boss, is stable off jumps and is small enough to throw around pretty easy. In high speed tech, this is a bike you want to gap rock gardens on, not monster truck em.

[@BCursed2012]

Great review Jeff, as always. I’m now running the Jade X on my V2S. Would be curious to hear your thoughts on that shock versus the X, X2, or DpX2.

[@flgfish]

Love my V2S! I just swapped the suspension to a Float X and agree that the smaller volume shock makes the bike come alive.

[@50whatnomadtravelnursemtb5]

I'm guessing V3's are incoming, the current versions are on sale with Ibis.

[@griffmtb]

I have the Ripmo AF 2022 with DVO suspension and added the Cascade Link while bumping up the fork to 170mm. Way too much bike for the majority of my trails in Texas, but I have a RM Element for that :) When I do go to the bike park, or Colorado, the Ripmo is great and it pedals as well as my RM even though it is much longer travel!

[@mrvwbug4423]

Agreed, the Ripmo is a very good Colorado bike, I also have the AF, I cascade linked mine, but kept the front end at 160. I live on the CO front range and it is well suited to the variety of trails here. The DW link is particularly good on the climbs here, we have a lot of techy, singletrack climbs here and not many fire road climbs like is typical in the PNW.

[@Davidskates603]

I bought a Ripmo AF 2 years ago to try 29. I ride a lot of trail and bike park. I was surprised at how capable it was at the park, I almost feel MORE comfortable on the Ripmo on tech then my SC Nomad. Not sure if its the weight or the coil but I rode it on literally everything at the park. Really impressive machine and if I were to sell all my bikes and get one, it would be a Ripmo. I just don't like the current colors they offer.

[@barbbrazes869]

Love your reviews?! Plus, love seeing your frisky riding!!

[@paulwintermute1495]

I own a 2020 ripmo v2 in bug zapper blue. Added the volume spacers to the DPX2 shock to stop bottoming out. Put on 165mm crankset to keep the pedals off the ground plus a 40mm stem. Upgraded the wheels to LB 933 carbon hoops. Love the bike. My only complaint is that I'm a larger rider (225#) and ride black diamond trails at a good clip. I wish it was a little slacker at times and i can get the rear triangle to flex when giving it the beans. The little chrome chain guard will not stay glued to the frame and I stopped replacing them. Same goes for the little rubber rock guard on the linkage. Other than that it's been a great all arounder. I am very happy with the purchase.

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Thanks for the comment Paul! I recognize your name from the comments over the years too- glad the Ripmo V2 is still treating you well! At only 170 lbs I find the carbon Ripmo spot on for stiffness, but the AF is certainly pretty soft for me. It’s interesting how some folks notice it and others don’t!

[@paulwintermute1495]

@@JeffKendallWeed for sure Jeff. It's like the advice I give riders about upgrading to carbon rims: if you don't ride particularly fast or if you are a light weight rider you can probably save your $$$ and enjoy aluminum for years. I flat spotted my ibis aluminum rims after a few rides 😆

[@LexELuther]

I always love your riding regardless of the bike. I also have a Ripmo V2 that was far improved by Float X2 volume reducers. Would be curious to try a Float X. What are your shock settings on that? I’m almost exactly your weight. Thanks for the great content!

[@swtcarlos]

I've had an HD5 for a rw years. Was really excited about the HD6. I love the look of the bike but I was not surprised to see it become a big bike. Most bike reviewers downplay the size of the bike and talk about how well it climbs. I'm a realist, though. I only do a couple of bike park weekends per year and the gnarliest terrain around me isn't very steep. What do you do when you have new bike itch but don't want the bike you were saving for? Find a new HD5 for 40% off and go from tan to black. Fresh suspension, dropper, look and several more years of smiles.

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Ha ha ha I like your solution there! Did you see my HD6 review? It does hide the amount of travel quite well sort of like the Niner WSO but it is indeed a big bike and requires very gnarly trails. Personally, I would take a Ripmo carbon over and Jc stay as an all-around are.

[@audionerdio]

I have a Ripmo AF and ride mostly in New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania. When I first got it I felt over-biked for a lot of the terrain around here and felt like I made a mistake getting over a Ripley. As I’m improving, hitting bigger features, it’s keeping right up with me and I wouldn’t trade it for a Ripley now. It pedals great (now that my stamina has improved), like you said. I think my next bike might be the same thing.

[@kjeldanderssen1186]

Thank's for your ever inspiring vids, Jeff! I just love watching your amazing bike handling and ever so professional and insightful reviews. I ride in Oslo, Norway. Pretty gnarly terrain with lots of off camber roots, slabs, rock and often wet and slippery. Elevation from 100 meter over the sea level up to 450 m and kind of a roller-coaster terrain. This is my 2nd season on my Ibis Ripmo V2 carbon with Industry 9 carbon rims and I just love the bike. Climbs like a goat, it's incredibly able navigating through rock gardens and stable pointing downwards. My best bike ever! Have ridden SC Nomad, which is a fantastic bike, but the Ripmo is just better, more efficient and more fun. Have ridden Ibis Mojo HD 2 earlier which also is a great bike - I'm very happy to be back on an Ibis. Cheers.

[@davewallace9048]

For my riding style on the East Coast, I prefer the ibis Ripley AF with fox 36 on the front at 140mm. I built a killer bike at 30.2 pounds with pedals!! Love this bike!!

[@MtbRN2MD]

Really contemplating between this, the offering and the new V3. I have watched your v3 video and saw that you prefer the Ripley. But need a more all-mountain bike, having ridden all 3 of em, which do you prefer?

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

V1 Ripmo ,last blue one in Aus the distributor said. Soooo glad I got it ,it’s a beast 🤘

[@vetracer5046]

I’ve had my ripmo af since 2022. I am in arizona and rides hawes 95% of the time. I agree with the rear end needs more support. Tends to blow throw the stroke. Liked it so much and the value is so good I bought the wife one also. I have the full dvo suspension and she has the z1 up front and the new topaz in the Rear. I really like the z1 fork,super smooth and plush,I almost want one for my bike.I’m still trying to get that onyx fork to stop numbing my hands in the rough stuff. Other then that the bike is rad.

[@netposerx]

Love my Ripmo AF. Purchased it from Squatch Bikes in Brevard, NC back in the summer of 2020. A few upgrades (Fork, shock, and a few others) and the bike is still my favorite. Works well on my local Raleigh trails and shines in Pisgah/Dupont in western NC.

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Right on! Thanks for sharing your experiences!

[@garysbraccia4980]

Love your channel. I have a Ripmo V1 and I might upgrade to the V2s cuase of a warranty issue. I have Xt8100 series group but Ibis says the new bike is 55cm chainline. Does that mean I need a whole new drivetrain or can i use spacers on the cranks. I just want to use all my parts from the V1 bike. thanks for your help

[@Supernova778]

Got 11th at my first enduro race on my ripmo af in men’s sport category beating 20 other guys who mostly had fancier carbon bikes. Love the ripmo Live in Nw oregon

[@bbiggs007]

@JeffKendallWeed About to pull the trigger on a Ripmo but given my last bike was carbon gray, I need some color in my life! The EnduroCell or Blah Green aren't doing it for me. Am I silly to get a V2 so I can get turquoise? Is the V2S really any better? The lack of UDH is not a deal breaker for me. And they're a bunch cheaper.

[@JeffKendallWeed]

There is absolutely nothing wrong with a regular V2… especially if you can save thousands of dollars! Get three or four spare hangers, so you’re set down the road in case anything ever were to happen. But that hanger is so ubiquitous I think you’re fine.

[@DQridesbikes]

Been loving my AF. It stays planted with the coil suspension. I love the active braking. I dont feel like i need anything else. Also I bought it from Jenson where I live a short bike ride away 😉

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Right on David! It’s a great bike for Greer, too!!! Go ride that Palm Epic!

[@DQridesbikes]

@@JeffKendallWeed on my bucket list ! Love me some Greer 👍 take care Jeff !

[@D_B2887]

Love your channel! I just dusted off my old 26er chameleon after watching a few of your videos, you broke my 10 year hiatus from riding. Thank you! Didn't realize not a lot of people ride 26er anymore, I think I'm going to pull the trigger on a Ripmo AF. Between the two build I'm eyeing at Jensonusa , which would you pick deore or N/GX?

[@snat6299]

❤ my AF Ripmo, custom built just for me🎉 wish it came in a xxl 505 reach, 77 ESA, 5 mm higher BB. BIG GUY NEED bikes too! Never had a problem with the bike it just keeps on ripping super reliable!

[@JacTennant]

Jeff, I'd really like to see you ride something high pivot with maybe a rearward axle path. Possibly a forbidden? Be really cool to hear your thoughts man.

[@craigmiller9478]

Traded out my Orbea Occam (carbon) for a Ripmo AF, and couldn’t be happier. The heavier Ripmo feels better climbing, and way more fun on the descents. The AF is stupid popular, and I usually see a couple every time I’m out (I live in Asheville), so that’s not awesome, but there’s a reason it’s the go to Pisgah bike.

[@micheandmikey]

That first blue and orange is still hard to beat. If you see my Bugzapper you'll notice I copied this scheme. Ordered my V2 (well originally just a Ripmo) January 2020, eventually got it September 28th 2020 and since then I've put 4742.9 miles on it and it's done perfect both trail & park. I'd like to chat with you about this aftermarket and change to the Ripmo.

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

Got the blue and orange with orange fox forks and blacked out parts. Also got it rode wrapped before I rode it so it’s fresh as paint 🎨

[@marksandoval5361]

I'm hoping to see for your review of the Ibis HD6 soon.

[@JeffKendallWeed]

I wish! Seems like it’ll be at least another month if I can get my hands on one.

[@audiophizile13]

Wouldn't be through Jenson but would really love your opinion the fezzari Delano peak. I'm in a situation where the ripmo is the biggest bike I'd likely ever need for my skill and average use. Looking in the 125-145 rear travel and on a budget. Lots of pedaling. Know not everyone cares but I like the storage of the regular stumpy while ALSO being able to fit a big bottle and the bottle space of Delano. Anyway to not NEED a pack for an average ride is a big plus to me.

[@lucasdehart383]

I've been riding a Delano for two years now, and I think the value has been pretty good. I'm certainly not an expert or anywhere near Jeff's ability, but the bike has definitely seen some progression in me as a rider. For blue and black trails here in the CO front range, I like it. The suspension kinematics tend towards traction over efficiency, but we have a lot of loose climbs, so I'm okay with that. I do flip the shock climb switch on roads or smooth sections of climb trail, but it's easy to do that from the saddle. Having two bottles in the frame is nice. I did a 20 mile, 2600 feet of climbing, morning last weekend with just a small hip pack with no extra bottles.

[@audiophizile13]

@@lucasdehart383 your feedback is probably more applicable so thanks! I will probably be riding around there at some point. Lived in bailey for a couple years but the only trail I biked then was in Staunton.

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Hey Audio, thanks for the note! I’ve not tried any Fezzari bikes. With them sponsoring so many YewTuvers I’ve been less keen on doing content around them as that market is so saturated. I would say to go with whatever bike has the better frame. Component come and go, and wear out and break, but a frame is going to be the heart of the bike for years to come.

[@audiophizile13]

@@JeffKendallWeed thanks for the reply! That's honestly the hard part haha a lot of frames are probably good enough for anything I could do with them. As you stated most everything is going to be small tradeoffs for riding style/preference and typical trails. My biggest drawback of the ripmo is most of my rides I would be having a pack on vs a stumpy or other in tube storage bikes and possibly a Delano having enough space to get away without one for at least shorter 10-20mile rides. Seems minor to some but packs are sweaty.

[@audiophizile13]

@@JeffKendallWeed also keep up the great work. I first came about your channel for the angels staircase video. I love watching more natural rides like that as they're my favorite style rides. Your no BS approach to the rest of your channel is great. Perfect amount of information presented very well.

[@DoctorGuy]

Jeff, can you please go into more detail about why the Cascade link and what it does to improve the ride? I had a ripley AF which I loved, that extra bit of slack really added some capability and i was fine with the more basic components it came wiith stock but it very much came alive with a good carbon wheelset. Then I picked up a carbon Ripmo V1 with a much lighter set of components. I liked it, liked it A LOT, but it felt more like a trail bike rather than the enduro bike I wanted for when the ripley wasn't enough. I overforked it to 170 and that helped but it did affect the handling in subtle odd ways and didn't fix the basic problem that I wanted a much longer more stable ride. Both bikes were stolen in one garage break in but insurance came through and I just got a barely used Ripmo V2 with a fox 36 and X2. This is absolutely the bike I was looking for and exactly as you describe it here. For my riding style no need to overfork this one. I would love to swap out the shock as I loved the DPX on the V1, but so far it is really okay. The low bottom bracket is truly infuriating however. So curious to understand what the Cascade does. I will absolutely still look for a used Ripley but this time carbon for a trail bike to put faster rolling tires on and I would unhesitatingly get a Ripmo V1 with a light build again and put slightly faster rolling tires on it as I for me that made for a very capable but fast pedaling and climbing trail bike. And yes I have tried hella non Ibis bikes but those Roxy Lo frame designs just seem to fit my anatomy and ride style. Love your videos and your whole playful approach to swapping out parts to see what works. Now you have me considering mulleting my old Specialized fuse hardtail.

[@MTBGeordieDownSouth]

I’ve recently received my V2s frame after my bushings finally gave up keeping out the British Slop on my V1, still love that bike…..i’ve got the Ohlins TTX M2 coil shock which has been great in the Alps recently but want to get a more poppy shock in there for local stuff, i’ve also got an unopened Cascade link sitting in my garage to fit so it’s good to hear your comments on it, additionally i have an 2018 Fox X2 which has always stunted my jumping, until i got the Ohlins I didn’t realise by how much….the X2 is close to the end of it’s serviceable life so looking for a new poppy do it all air shock, do you recommend the float x? Also thinking the Ohlins RFX 36 at 170mm may be better suited to me than my current 160mm lyrik once the Cascade link goes on, at 220lbs it nearly always feels like there’s too much pressure in everything and the suspension isn’t working as well as it should so finding this video has been great information, thanks!! Oh and on a side note, Jenson have the Ohlins on sale and even with taxes/duties, its still drastically cheaper than buying here in tge UK so i’m very tempted

[@eanderson3805]

Hey Jeff, I have a Yeti SB130LR in s size small (I am about 5 foot 6). I ride rocky terrain and wanted to get your opinion if you think think a medium Ripmo V2S with a fox 36 fork ( I plan to buy a V2S frame and swap my components over) would handle rocky descents better than the sb130LR. I find the 130 to be stiff on the descents and I start to feel overwhelmed in fast speeds.

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Heya E, thanks for the note. I'd absolutely suggest a medium Ripmo for 5'6", it'll be a bit more plush and monster truck feeling vs the SB130, and I do think you'll like it!

[@Josh-om9wv]

The Ripmo is really easy to hop on and get along with, but I could never get the suspension where I wanted it. The shock was either heavily damped, filled with more spacers than I liked, or it was bottoming out way too easily. No idea how people run a coil on it. Fun bike and I always recommend it to anyone interested in starting mountain biking, but I've been happy since moving on.

[@richardwager283]

I’ve had the V2 with factory 38 & X2 and the SLX kit. Wheels are the ibis 35mm. Got the bike in December 👌🏻 I’m very pleased with it overall and agree it certainly a do it all bike. I’ve done big days out 100km plus and lots of trail riding. For me I found I’ve had to run the firm ibis recommend settings with the recommended spacers for my size. Do you think I should up the volume spacers? It pedals very well, really good support corners well and jumps well. For me it’s better a higher speeds and a little harsh at lower speeds on small bump sort of stuff. The engagement of the ibis rear up is the only thing I don’t like.

[@matth8924]

Ended up on a Bronson. Think I made the right choice, I loved my Ripley af, but Santa Cruz makes a sweet bike

[@hootie_owl2771]

Have a v2 carbon and ride in Pisgah and Western NC. Really think it's the perfect bike for here as it climbs well and copes with the high speed chunk plenty well. I bought the bike when I still lived in New England and it worked surprisingly well on tighter slow peed trails as well. I can only find it's limits at a bike park. I keep thinking about trying other bikes, but I really can see having this for a long time.....I only wish it were lighter

[@emanuelecamozzi2336]

Hi Jeff, thanks for the excellent reviews, Having a downcountry bike like the Pivot Mach4 Sl 120/106 front and rear and wanting a second fun bike downhill/allround decently efficient pedaling uphill would you go for the Ripmo or the HD6 .would you rate Ripmo and HD6 equally efficient pedaling uphill?36 fox enough for both or HD6 needs 38? Thanks a lot

[@johnbrittingham3448]

Couple of questions about the Ripmo v2s. Could you install spacers in the X2 shock and install the AF upper link? (That way I don't have to buy the lower linkage and get more rear travel) 2. How many spacers would you recommend if I'm 5'9" 165lbs.?... Oh and one last thing what do you know about the Atherton AM150mm. The reviews have been great. Thxs for you input

[@Steamboatjohnson9934]

Jeff, do you think an offset bushing would help improve top-out clearance with the cascade link?

[@slushblast4369]

Need a review on the hd6 now!!! 😍😍

[@patrixdan2661]

Owned a Ripmo AF and currently own a Ripmo V2. Tried the AF with a coil, a progressive coil and a super deluxe with the MegNeg. I also tried the cascade components link on the AF. For me the best way to obtain more progression and make it ride higher in its travel is the MegNeg without the cascade components link. The link makes it too active, so that you loose speed on flater trails. It also climbs worse with the link. In the V2 I tried the new superdeluxe with hydraulic bottom out, but I couldn't set it up to my liking. With the progressive air can I found myself dialing the high speed compression all the way out. Otherwise it would be too choppy. But with no high speed compression it would ride most of the time too deep in the travel. The MegNeg solved this issue. It makes it more progressive and stays higher in the travel. My only problem is the jumping. I find it's harder to jump predictive and sometimes the rear end kicks. Making the rebound slower would help but makes the bike numb in the chatter.Al least it's my impression. I have the feel, that the bike sinks too much it's travel during the transition of the take off and then it tends to kick. If you have any advice, I would be very thankful to hear it. The Ripmo is the bike I compare all other bikes to. Would love to try an hd6. Happy trails!

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Thanks Pat- once I get a bit of volume reduction in there, it feels about bang on for my jumping needs. I’m only 170lbs tho!

[@bimfred]

nothing screams ‘good bike’ like infinite twiddling

[@patrixdan2661]

​@@bimfred😂

[@etiennebenard8245]

Would you compare it to de Rocky instinct ?? I was really hesitant between the two but ended up with the instinct, loving it so far!!

[@ThisIs4Cody]

Liking the conservative geo of the Occam LT & Switchblade for New England trails; they've got the agility, efficiency, and pop to make the most of the tight terrain and miles of tech climb. But do see a ton of Ripmos out there.

[@chefJCH1]

I ride the ripmo af and it rocks- great balance- rips for downhills, but keeps me in the top of the pack for climbs. I ride nj, pa and Delaware

[@zachward2215]

Subscribed as soon as I saw your trail steez. Hawt.

[@daviddapra4028]

Hey Jeff, been riding a large AF with 45mm stem, riser bars, fox 38 160, dvo coil with cascade link and those blackbird wheels. Love the bike. In Reno area. Trying shorter cranks (165mm), but was wondering what chainline version should they be? My shop threw on super boost XTs, but there’s a big spacer on non-drive side. Thinking the 55mm chainline-spindle would be more appropriate (especially with iscg adapter). What do you think? Thanks!

[@JeffKendallWeed]

David I can’t remember all the details, but I just run regular XT, XTR, and even SLX cranks in 165 and they feel great. I’ll actually be in Reno in an hour en route to a Tahoe wedding 😂

[@Adventure-MTB]

All of the bikes compared in this video, which one would be closely compared to the Trek Remedy stock, or mullet remedy ?

[@juanherrero6082]

Mr Jeff Kendall-weed would you review a high pivot bike like the Cannondale jekyll 2022?

[@saintbeats1435]

Will you be doing a review of the HD6?

[@eliasdanieli5461]

Great comparison!

[@mikeevans8318]

I test rode a V1 Ripmo back in 2019....loved it but for my riding style I went with a Ripley

[@amory716]

Was hoping to see a Knolly in the comparison list :)

[@danjelvantijnintellijel756]

I am curious if people riding the North Shore / Squamish trails are going to prefer the HD6 over the Ripmo now

[@PeterSandHansen]

Another great mtb video! You are amazingly thorough and entertaining. But a thought. Have you ever tried a nukeproof mega giga or reactor? They get great reviews, but are seldom reviewed by North American or Canadian KZbinrs. I would like to see where they’d stack up against the usual suspects. Thanks a bunch for all the great content. Greetings from Denmark.

[@alexanderyosick1258]

What bushing kits did you end up using on this conversion? I bought the same bike and same shock, but am struggling to determine what bearing kits to use?

[@laurynasjagelo5075]

It'd be cool if you can get your hand on the Marin alpine trail carbon. Seems quite a similar bike category to Kona/Ripmo

[@vv_mtblines]

I’ve been looking for a bashguard/chainguide for my ‘23 Ripmo AF, do you have any suggestions? MRP developed one for Ibis frames for the HD6, but it’s not available for purchase yet. I’ve seen you use an e*Thirteen chainguide on a Ripmo AF.

[@mckayflake1590]

No comparison with the pivot firebird??? I have heard that the firebird is more well rounded then other Enduro bikes so I would love to hear how it compares to the ripmo

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Well flake, the Firebird is gonna compare a lot more to the other long travel bikes- the Spire, the Rallon, SB160. I think cross genre comparisons warrant their own kinda video, since then I should go into Ripmo vs Ripley vs Process 134, for example.

[@mckayflake1590]

True, I mean what even is a category when people are winning national level Enduro races on the ripmo and you put a 170 fork on it. Stoked to see a hd6 review!!!!

[@badcompany1313]

Any chance you’ve ridden one with the Bomber Z1 they come stock with this year? Not sure if I should find an older model with the DVO stuff for a more poppy bike or just go with the heavier bomber which will be planted but less playful. Do you have any input?

[@KlausJorgen]

Cool review 😊 I do have a specialized stumpjumper expert with only 140 \ 130mm travel. I think it's surprisingly good for this short travel. What you think ?

[@josharansky]

What length stem did you add, Jeff?

[@frienduro24]

I had V2 for a year. It was a great all rounder almost enduro bike. I didn’t get along with the rear shock and it’s tune. I’m 195lb with gear. It just always felt out gunned. Cons. It needs more frame protection and a mini rear fender to keep out all the small rocks from destroying the rear linkage. Mine had too much cable rattle for my taste. I heard the Rimpo will be phased out for a Mojo 29 and moving in a beefier Ripley 140/130.

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

My V1 just doubled in value 😂

[@bimfred]

so much effort to enjoy this rig it seems

[@JeffKendallWeed]

😂 hardly! It’s super easy to ride. Thing is, you can go so fast on it that once you get comfy, you start pushing it harder and harder.

[@bimfred]

@@JeffKendallWeed ok nice. just don’t spec the x2, ever, it seems

[@justintroy9827]

I am so torn on a ripmo vs Firebird. I come in at 245-250 kitted out. So I’m scared the ripmo isn’t going to be a fan of that. I want a pedals good, fun all around bike. That will handle me jumping it and such. But will pedal nicely up climbs and on flat trail. What’s your take?

[@chino616]

I rented a ripmo v2 in moab utah and it was awesome. I ride a transition scout for trail and a rocky mountain maiden for dh. The ripmo could definitely be the one bike to do it all. It had the fox 38 but i think the lyrik or 36 would be better and more playful for me. I will own a ripmo one day 😅

[@poiroo]

You are doing the best reviews. But why always the Sentinel is missing in your comparisons? I think that everybody is eager to hear your opinion….Ripmo vs Sentinel…

[@NB-ski]

Have you tried the ripmo with an angled headset?

[@bombator3241]

when is HD6 review?

[@SlowMtbRider]

Was about to ask the exact same thing :)

[@JeffKendallWeed]

I wish! Seems like it’ll be at least another month if I can get my hands on one.

[@JJaguar333]

Hi how tall are you and what size frame did you go for? How large dropper can you go?

[@velitiede]

Comparison to newest version of santa cruz hightower v3 would be sweer since bikes are almost identical geometry wise!

[@mrvwbug4423]

And the big question, when are you getting a HD6 to review?

[@joetalley192]

Does the process 153 feel like a bigger bike, or is it more of a same use category bike with slightly different geo?

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Same category! The 153 is fun. Not quite as fast, but still a really good all around bike. Somehow it pedaled better for me than the 134.

[@talesfromthetrailz]

Have you ever tried a coil shock on this V2 or V2S? And did you choose a progressive coil?

[@LastAphelion]

I'm really torn, I have yet to ride a Ripmo and it was at the top of my list to try/buy except for one thing, I'm a below average height rider and not only do I miss how playful and fun my old 26' was everywhere, it didn't cause me anywhere as much knee pain as the 29" I now currently have because of the required increase in power to rotate the wheels. So I always was frustrated that Ibis never made the Ripmo mullet capable or in like a full 27" variant for smaller riders. So I find the new mullet HD6 extremely attractive except in that it's a bloody 180 fork enduro, so I can't wait to hear Jeff try one and talk about if it feels like a too big bike for going anywhere or if hopefully it might be a goldilocks enduro that might be fun everywhere But I REALLY hope one day soon we can get a WAO Arrival review and comparison to the Ripmo 😈I think the Arrival is still my number one lust right now and now that the newer models will come with a mulletable rear triangle I'm even more hyped