Polygon Bikes Siskiu N9 2021 Long Term Review // The Best Bike Bang For Your Buck?

[@johnnydoe66]

No bike is perfect until you the owner makes it so.....No matter how much I love my bike, just like every cyclist, I can't wait to upgrade and customize parts to make it "My" perfect bike.

[@TheShredist]

Too true!

[@isal79]

Yes.. same with me.. never ending upgrade 😁

[@MHE98]

I use to have a trance and upgraded to an N9 and the difference was insane, climbs easier and I feel so much more confident on the decents, just hope to see polygon go up in the world because they truly are a great brand

[@levis.9408]

I have a trance advanced right now 😂, but I’m starting to ride some gnarly features, and steep, techy descents. I’ve been looking into an enduro bike ever since a rented a pivot mach 6 at Brian head bike park, looking into a YT Capra core 3.

[@breesej]

I bought this bike a few weeks ago based on the KZbin ads, 14 day trial ride policy and your initial video. I do agree with you on the tall seat tube with minimal seat post insertion issue. I downsized the spec'd 170mm dropper to a 150 as the 170 doesn't really fit the frame all that well. The only "upgrades" were to install a "better" seat, "better" pedals and install a shorter stem, basically cockpit stuff. I'm smack dab in the middle of a medium and large, I went with the large and can understand your comments on the reach. I originally bought this bike only for the parts and was going to transfer everything over to a lighter frame; it's that good of a deal. The only time I ever feel the weight is when loading it in the truck and when thinking about the weight while on long climbs. Shorter cranks, full seat post insertion with a shorter seat tube, water bottle bosses and 200mm front rotor would great changes for the next iteration. I have no plans on swapping out frames, the paint job is just beautiful, it handles great uphill, downhill and MILD "XC". I had enough left over in the budget for some shorts, lumbar hydration pack, pedals, seat, stem, and a few other accessories. Thanks for the great videos, keep up the good work!

[@godzoox]

I have the N8 and did just the same as you 125mm dropper post /pedals /shorter stem /seat /Charger2 Damper Upgrade kit now its perfect...

[@emptyplaces1928]

At least you got yours, they keep giving me a run around with Fedex, and Fedex straight up calling them liars. lol

[@fullsend3631]

Sweet dude! I just bought one and I love it!

[@PAULEYBOY84]

Getting the n7. Can't wait.

[@davethomasthedreamteam9418]

You youtube handle is epic and I am so Jealous you secured full send. I am going to see if "Send it" is available now.

[@goncarrasco]

I've ridden all sort of brand bikes over the past years: Specialized, Giant, GT, Ironhorse, Mondraker, Dartmoor, etcs. I am riding a Polygon Siskiu N9 size M now and loving it. I changed the saddle, the handlebar, the stem, the tires and the pedals. The rest works very well for me.

[@sotosbrother9389]

How tall are you ?

[@goncarrasco]

@@sotosbrother9389I'm 1.70 and M fits me very well.

[@fromthesky1050]

Were you on a stump jumper

[@gpearce11]

Very nice bike. I think Polygon makes some of the best value Full suspension bikes on the market. Their lower specced bikes (D7/T7) leave absolutely nothing to be desired for the price, while their higher specced bikes (T8/N9) leave nothing to be desired, period. For me one of the only brand that probably comes close is Marin, where they tend to be a two to three hundred more for similar/same spec. Personally I prefer the Marin, but that only because they have a noticeably larger XL frame (515mm reach) compared to even the updated Polygon T line (500mm reach, previously 485mm), and when you're 6ft 6in, every bit of reach helps.

[@CasualInTheTrees]

I got recommended Polygon from a mechanic who said they share the same warehouse and are pretty much just a rebranded Marin.

[@richdome1]

Bought a used N9 1600, beast. I ride a small at 5'7" ,140lbs and biking since the 60's! Rock til u drop!

[@NickyNicest]

Good looking bike at a great value. Looking forward to see more brands like this. Meanwhile trek is asking $4k for the new slash frame alone.. you get this complete Polygon bike for

[@TheShredist]

Its definitely a hard value to beat, especially when you're as rough on bikes as I am 🤣

[@anthonywalters7434]

Yeah. Trek, Specialized, and Santa Cruz never seem to be the best pick when you’re on a budget. I learned that the hard way with my Rockhopper and 2.5 years down the line I’m hitting the limit of the bike’s capability ride after ride. I’m definitely getting a Canyon Strive as my next bike now. The shapeshifter system is going to be immensely useful for my local trails.

[@hjalteholdgaard3814]

Have you seen the trek slash 8

[@anthonywalters7434]

Ninjanulski yeah it’s not bad but for that price I think the Canyon Strive CF 7 is a better option. It’s roughly $300 cheaper, lighter, and just as well spec’d.

[@hjalteholdgaard3814]

But the geo is wildly different, 66 vs 64.1/64.6. Trek has lifetime warranty as well

[@zakkane2814]

6:06 strong Mahalo my Dude vibes

[@evanmedina1978]

I'm just about to get one because of the price and now I'm extra white about my decision

[@Ammotive28]

I picked a fair knackered N8 up used for £750! Needed bearings, bushes & sus service. But it came with GX mech, SLX brakes with Icetech discs, 35mm cnc stem, fat bar & fabric saddle. I’m 5’10 and my large is a lovely fit. I’ve swapped to a 165mm GX crank and my god, the conference it gives me in avoiding strikes is invaluable. Currently running F- 2.5 Shorty R- 2.5 Assagai (uk autumn) and double Assagai for summer. Just acquired a set halo supadrive hub and will be getting them laced up on some DT E532s soon. Looking to swap the Yari for a 36 elite in the new year. It’s such a perfect bike for me, it’s a heavy hitting all rounder. I can much out a 30km xc loop, hoon bike park bike laps & slap down my steep local gnar. I love it.

[@jasonlewis6914]

I had the d7 built it up. Hoping to ride it as much as I can. I ended up selling it. it wasn't easy. I just love my xtr hardtail so much. Be I can do almost anything with it. The hits are harder. But that doesn't bother me.

[@davethomasthedreamteam9418]

I am with you. I find myself reaching for my hardtail more and more just because of how much more twitchy it is, and it climbs so much better.

[@cibablea]

SOLD. Bought my girlfriend a Poly and I can shred on it, 70# heavier than her. Glad they have one for me. Great review and mad trail skills.

[@PeterCPRail8748]

Great review, polygon as been making some sweet bikes last few years.

[@karunketone10]

Coming from giant trance series for quite some time, I'm thinking of giving N9 a shot for a change (I was actually considering Trance X 29 2 2021). This is well quipped for me and Im not into carbon. Waiting for this bike to arrive in my local polygon dealer. Thanks for the video. You explained everything needed 🤟🏻🤟🏻

[@geop04]

I’m 6 feet as well with a wingspan of 6’1. I want to get the T8 but it’s out of stock. How comfortable are you with the XL N9. I’m torn between an L and XL. Thank you man and keep up with the awesome content!

[@inhalethetrail3935]

Dope review, like that bikes paint job. It's up there with my DaVinci Spartan 2018. Crank arms that are too long are just a pain in the ass. We put 175s on my son's bike just so we could go riding and that was a mistake.

[@Raveehh]

Most amazing content. You are the reason i got a Capra AL 27.5 a while back and i find it to be an amazing bike. I got overwhelmed thinking about all the darn antisquats and efficiencys and geometrys. So i just pulled the trigger and i couldnt be happier now. I was afraid it was going to be hard to climb and whatnot but i go up like a mountaingoat/down like an avalanche :D. 27.5 does have a bit less leverage compared to 29 incher so that could also help a bit when climbing.

[@andrewcook1791]

Nice too see the Beacon in that video. I love that place.

[@MTBTrailRider]

I feel you on the sizing! I currently ride a Large 5010. has a reach of 457, seat tube length of 430. Im looking at the siskie N and T models as well. Really want the N9 but the sizing is off from what I'm used to riding in my 5010. It's hard to just hop on the bike and try it out when you dont have many local riders with the polgyon bike. It seems depending on the N or T model, I might even fit into a Medium (based on some specs) but need a large for other specs im used to riding. The LONG seat tube length on the N model is ridiculus!! I have a 200mm dropper on my 5010 and LOVE IT - it gets so low and out of the way... not happening on this bike. :/ Lots of decisions to be made for bike and size.

[@steffen748]

I'm also Riding a Capra at the Moment. Even tho It is my First Enduro Bike and therefore i have No comparison, it feels exactly as you described uphill. Not quite Sure If i will Switch to a different Enduro bike, since the Capra is pretty Overkill for the 1000ft Elevation Here in southern Germany ...

[@jltrack]

Does Polygon sell a Pivot bearing kit? To me, being able to buy those and derailleur hangers down the line is super important for me.

[@Danstheman1357]

Bikes online has all the bearing kits, linkage parts and what not

[@beerbikeboard_co4122]

man, i gotta get on one of these soon! and that paint job 🤩🤤

[@Yhigma]

6:35 I can say I personally disaree on your crankarms thing... it's a matter of preference. I run 175mm on all my bikes and I like them that way. Easier for those really steep grindy climbs

[@chadkehoe]

I agree and was coming here to ask how you found the shorter cranks affected the climbs. I tried switching to 170 and as noticeable as it was on the downs in regards to less peddle strikes, it was even more noticeable on the climbs as I felt like I had lost quite a bit of power and it fatigued me more.

[@Yhigma]

@@chadkehoe Trails I ride are steep uphill and really steep downhill. I would not be making a pedal stroke on any sized crankarm.

[@-Alex-]

If you are looking at other bikes I would suggest a Canyon Spectral AL for just a better bike overall for the same price.

[@rollwithmemtb]

Love my N9👍

[@dotdot7020]

Great review, your vid helped me make my decision, I just ordered an N9, but won’t receive it for another month

[@svrider1985]

This video was the reason I bought one!

[@DannyNagymusic]

did you convert into tubeless? if yes, how good was the tape on the rim for you or did you have to put new tape on it?

[@dumbr2098]

It's funny how preference can differ so much. We are the same height and I find a size large way too big.. But I guess that's cause of my riding style.. If you know 50to01 you'll know.

[@StepXX]

I watched review of Polygon N8 model and the guy there (being 185-186cm/6,1) said that someone with 182-183cm might wanna check size M (N8 and N9 have the same geometry).

[@averymahon3774]

Sooo...it’s a good bike besides the tires, parts of the drivetrain and brakes, and the suspension..

[@TheShredist]

Those are all just preferential upgrades

[@MikkaiJamsa]

Another awesome vid dude

[@alexmain6634]

Does the n9 come with magic marry ties now?

[@ThomasSlaney]

Pedal strikes have been an issue for me on this bike, and at 6’0”, seat is a tiny bit too tall for me (I sit about an inch below max height). Maybe next year I’ll get the 170mm cranks and shorter dropper post (though two issues might be fixed by cranks).

[@lfsiuvagacwoi]

How’s the pedal kickback? Whenever I hear good climber I usually assume there’s a good amount of anti squat

[@TheShredist]

Kickback seems negligible, I know on the R3act rear linkage has a good amount, but the faux bar is the N9 hasn't made me notice issues with kickback.

[@LooseWheelFilms]

Biking With Garrett judging by the pivot position I would say there would probably be a fair amount of kickback, but that seems like a good trade for climbing performance.

[@lfsiuvagacwoi]

The Loose Wheel it definitely is good for climbing but it takes away from small bump sensitivity on the way down. It’s a trade off like anything

[@eric9432]

You should try out the Michelin Wild Enduro's. I don't see myself going back to Maxxis anytime soon.

[@TheShredist]

How do they roll? I've been very interested in them but am leery to get stuck with something slow rolling like the e.thirteens I had.

[@eric9432]

@@TheShredist I was worried about that too but honestly with the setup you are running now I doubt you will notice and rolling resistance issues. Best cornering grip on any tire I have used and they really seem to work in everything this Virginia winter and summer have thrown at it. They are absolutely worth a try. All my buddies have now switched over as well of course after I was the test dummy for them. Also buddy keep up the good work on the videos. Definitely my favorite MTB channel.

[@kyleslater5245]

I don’t think they roll quite as fast as minions but they roll plenty fast enough for me and I much prefer the tread on them for my terrain (particularity the cornering traction).

[@anthonyb924]

Can’t decide between this or the T8

[@scottpeterson7416]

Me too. Hoping someone can explain the pros and cons of each

[@mudkayak6305]

Same. Can the N9 work just as well as a do it all trail bike?

[@Buzz-Of-Craze]

saving money to buy this bike!

[@-Alex-]

I would get a canyon spectral for a better bike overall for less money

[@ericcontreras8863]

If you don’t mind modifying the frame a bit then Maybe you could cut a bit off the seattube? Just to use all the dropper.

[@TheShredist]

I had thought to, but where the weld support is, I would only be able to remove about 3mm, not worth voiding the frame warranty for me.

[@ericcontreras8863]

The Shredist yea, was just a thought

[@AidanChen7]

Lets goo another upload!

[@femacampetiquettefordummie6979]

Does the color of this bike come across more as black...or a dark jewell tone blue?

[@mbahjoeyoe2channel355]

The bike was awesome🙏 i love it my friend😎

[@peytonjames9237]

Yeeeew this vid is gonna be sick

[@PEJUANGIMPIAN9]

nice video man.. i love siskiu d5, but it need some upgrade, new friend here

[@davethomasthedreamteam9418]

I am about to order and am right in between the large and the xl. I am 6' with a pretty average wingspan for my height but a little bit shorter than average legs. Thoughts? Should I move to the XL or wait until they have the large back in stock?

[@TheShredist]

I will say the seatpost on the xl is brutally tall, and its the reason why I'm on the Vander this year. I got used to it but its not ideal. The reach was perfect for me and spent the year on it and was super happy with the bike itself, but it was nice to get away from the seatpost.

[@davethomasthedreamteam9418]

@@TheShredist So You're saying I should wait on the Large then? I don't like a super tall seat when I am climbing.

[@TheShredist]

I would if thats a worry for you 👍

[@banjorowe9519]

What's the frame strength like my mate had a d5 and snapped the frame on four different occasions

[@daltonking9782]

My 2018 Niner Rip9 has the same issue with factory spec'd with a dropper seatpost that doesn't fit the frame/reach numbers of the bike's geo. Why can't manufacturer's figure this out?

[@edwardjski]

"With a couple of cheaper upgrades in the braking and drive train department, this bike is unstoppable..." -Not the kind of brake upgrade I'd be looking for; "unstoppable" sounds terrible! ;-) Just having fun here. Great review: informative, entertaining and non-elitist.

[@robsnow2099]

Whats the weight on the bike?

[@nugrahazulfatma4789]

the size of the bicycle in the video how many inches ??

[@paullmight42]

i really tried to buy a polygon a few weeks ago but they had no stock...had to go with a different option...

[@Jan07362]

Can u please tell polygon that bicycleonline can ship to canada

[@Bsunders]

Hey just wondering on your opinion on the rear pivot bushings, as i bought the 2019 n9 and are having large issues with them wearing out (as on the 2019 model they come with bushings is this also with the 2020?). I do use the bike as a free ride and race bike. Just wondering as overall i love the bike but it has me sounding like a can of nuts and bolts sown a trail.

[@TheShredist]

Mine were starting to wear a little fast so I pulled all the dust covers on the bearings and re packed them with waterproof grease. They've been great since and think that's a new step I'll be taking on every new bike from now on as bearings are usually under-lubed from the factory.

[@cricry]

Does the Siskiu come with all the parts needed?

[@TrevorFox718]

So im 5' 6" and have 15 years experience racing bmx. i want to buy a n9 and rode a couple mtn's in my area so far on a transtion tr500 and its a blast! but im not sure if i should get the 27.5" or 29" for the n9.. any input appreciated

[@TheShredist]

If you want to do a lot of jumping and aren't worried about racing, 27.5 is good, 29er is more speed orientated, but will also leave you feeling less fatigued on long descents.

[@Voidclown.]

Spend another 500 and get a Capra Shred (carbon) and the weight penalty is gone. Although it's a clear winner for the 3k category

[@TheShredist]

Or save 200 and get an N9 😉

[@Voidclown.]

@@TheShredist Holy damn somtimes you find yourself writing dumb things. The polygon is lighter than the Capra comp. About 300g. I wish I had looked more into this before going all keyboardwarrior. Keep up the good work!

[@TheShredist]

Nothing wrong with alloy! Personally I prefer it.

[@SHADETREE666]

@@Voidclown. where do you see that, on the website it specs with a 36

[@Voidclown.]

@@SHADETREE666 I think I missed the price range. The capra shred got these specs but that's 3500. So if you got anothet 500 to spend the capra shred is the way to go. Otherwisw polygon seems like the better option ;)

[@flippy66]

When will manufacturers learn that seat tubes really don't need to change much, because everyone is (or should be) running a dropper? Not a fan of the finish on this bike, looks like a budget bike. It would be nice to see some matte options.

[@mac001texas]

My bike has glossy paint at 2x the cost of this polygon, some people love shiney paint...

[@flippy66]

@@mac001texas And some people think it looks cheap 🤷‍♀️

[@bjorne46]

Nice rig, but I don’t see a water bottle mount? It does seem te be great value 👍🏻

[@TheShredist]

No bottle mount on this guy. Saves weight, makes you faster 🤣

[@bjorne46]

Google SKS anywhere 💡. But no bottle mount is a dealbreaker on any bike to me. Ps; really dig that you take the time to answer your KZbin replies 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@andikappradana]

@@bjorne46 go for the new T series, it has bottle mount and 65° head angle

[@bjorne46]

Andika Putra Pradana I’m perfectly satisfied with my bike. But thanks for the tip.

[@Danstheman1357]

Needs a water bottle holder too, for me that’s a necessity to Atleast have a short water bottle on my bike

[@nashezharrosly676]

Considering this and the t8. Which would be better?

[@TheShredist]

Depends on what you're after. T8 is a great climber and fun, N9 smashes down and eats up the gnar.

[@nashezharrosly676]

@@TheShredist the n9 climbs well too?

[@TheShredist]

I definitely think so!

[@nashezharrosly676]

@@TheShredist Thank you! Looking forward to getting one soon!

[@steverx4460]

At 6ft, maybe you should've got a medium with a 430mm seat tube.

[@bumblebeeyaj9375]

What's the rear shock measurements?

[@tatertotcrew]

Did you ride this bike stock at Schweitzer?

[@TheShredist]

Not at Schweitzer, only Silver

[@MKHLX]

Bro for 5'6, what your advice frame size?

[@bumblebeeyaj9375]

I'm 5'8 and I have the siskiu N7 (medium) 29 and it's perfect for me. If I was your height I would say Medium 27.5 but the dropper seat post your going have to go with is a 125mm, 150mm was a little too long for me

[@gunnarlavenue]

Where the heck are you getting 30 min downhills?

[@TheShredist]

Silver mountain! 🤘

[@ArcolaBridge]

2021 t8 or n9???

[@saifulredzuan5236]

Do u have issues with the shimano xt hubs not engaging? I have issues with mine ..if u do any fixed solutions of just dump it n get a new pair of hubs

[@TheShredist]

Mine started making noise pretty quick. I took them completely apart (even the part that says do not disassemble), cleaned, and reoiled them with good results. They seem to get dry and gritty in the pawl mech, making them lock up.

[@saifulredzuan5236]

@@TheShredist Ah ! Understood!! Guess i just have to dismantle the whole mechanism ,cool thing its "Scylene" thou but after had it for a while is aint that silent no more..sounds like im making and rat juice out the hub squeaking like hell..thanks for the advice man cheers u the best!!

[@TheShredist]

@@saifulredzuan5236 eventually it'll probably need replaced. The new XT stuff just doesn't last it would seem.

[@saifulredzuan5236]

@@TheShredist 10-4...noted with thanks stay safe buddy happy shredding

[@milesbaker4775]

How much does it weigh?

[@enriqueguerreroguerrero6447]

Please some help or advisement, i don’t know which one to buy the polygon siskiu N7 or the canyon torque AL 6.0

[@dsbowen87]

Skip Canyon, I am sending my spectral back. Their after sales customer service is terrible. I'm looking to switch to polygon or ibis.

[@enriqueguerreroguerrero6447]

@@dsbowen87 thanks bro, I heard that polygon is good, I’m thinking in that one

[@enriqueguerreroguerrero6447]

@@dsbowen87 why are you sending your spectral back?

[@dsbowen87]

@@enriqueguerreroguerrero6447 I had an issue with the dropper post during installation and had to send it to the shop for repair. Not that big of a deal just an annoyance. The bike shop lost a bolt and the dropper post grommet. So I contacted Canyon to get those parts and I was ghosted. I contacted them via email and on the phone multiple times. I would always get someone on the phone and they said they would have the person working my case call me back and I never received anything from them. After 3 weeks of repeated attempts I told them I'm returning the bike. I told multiple people there I never got refunded for my bike shop repair and they just kept passing it on. Only when I told them I was returning the bike they processed it. They didn't even ask why I wanted to return it. I told them anyways and they just said thanks for the feedback and didn't even attempt to correct it. If I cant get a response about $10 in parts what makes me think they are going to do anything when if have a major issue. It seemed like they were just trying to run out the 30 days so I couldn't return it. If you look up reviews you will see this is not uncommon for them. They have around 20% negative reviews and almost all of them are after sales service. YT is even worse from what I read.

[@DarruHando]

Polygon.. nice bike bro

[@RideActive]

What about the lack of place for a bottle?

[@TheShredist]

Well there's that. I've been riding without one for 3 years now though so it's my normal lol

[@RideActive]

The Shredist does it have screw holes in the downtube at least?

[@TheShredist]

Nope, best bet is to go with a fidlock bottle mount

[@archieprentice918]

no mention of the weak rear pivot bushings?

[@TheShredist]

I removed the dust seals on mine out of the box and put quality grease in them and they've held up well. I do this with all new bikes though.

[@archieprentice918]

@@TheShredist How long did they last?

[@TheShredist]

Have a full season on them so far, still holding up

[@andrewclarke7396]

How much does it weigh? Just curious

[@domanater480]

mine was about 15.7kg

[@andrewclarke7396]

@@domanater480 oh ok cool thanks

[@joseledesma4776]

How to get one in Canada?

[@anthonybristow7084]

🤘

[@Imterruble]

Do you still have that Fox 36?

[@TheShredist]

Made a solid upgrade for the wife's bike 👍

[@Imterruble]

The Shredist oh SICK

[@kangandres]

what size r u using?

[@TheShredist]

4:23 Got an entire section dedicated to it ;)

[@hjhjkhkhk553]

Everything functions properly kzbin.infoUgkxHL1v1R3NE5x4KiYfyt8dnQmyNYz7qi5L Nothing was damaged in the box aside from a decal on the fork. The decal was missing a piece of a corner but I ended up peeling them off anyways. Assembly is easy BUT make sure you tune up the derailleurs. Both the front and rear need adjusting. I'd advise going to a bike shop but I opted out and put in 10+ hours with the help of KZbin. Ended up fraying a shifter cable but all in all I learned from the experience. The Brakes work well but the front caliper needs adjusting or at least mine did because the rotor was rubbing against the pads. Make sure you swap out the seat, grips, and pedals. For the short run you'll be fine though. I've read that this bike isn't built yet for hard trails but I just need it for the city. PA has some of the worst roads and being in a mountain this was a great choice. Worth the investment!

[@WyattH]

YT has a carbon frame at 3000 so I say it is probably a better deal

[@georgekell2344]

Metal is always better

[@georgekell2344]

Jk go with what you like but lots of ppl like al more than carbon

[@WyattH]

George Kell ya I know I have the Capra shred

[@TheShredist]

I'm one for alloy frames 🤘

[@WyattH]

The Shredist do you still have you Capra Ltd I think they called it?

[@oogabooga4047]

I like you channel 😚

[@rudi3437]

Pengen punya

[@olliethomass5540]

it says that it weighs over 18 kg

[@EnlistedTrailHeads]

You had me at under 3k!

[@-Alex-]

I would suggest a Canyon Spectral for cheeper and just better overall

[@lelandf1043]

Uhhh can I have the old fork?

[@TheShredist]

Wife got it lol

[@masonforbes2220]

Sick bike👌

[@muhammaddaffafirdaus2078]

Made in Indonesian wuhuu

[@chrismccollough8392]

hi

[@reaganhenry373]

👏👏👏👏🤙🤙🤙👍👍👍

[@brentlarson4316]

Sorry man!! I like YT and Commencal a lot more!!!

[@lvpheno7025]

Ugly frames fersher!!! wish they atleast had better colorways to choose from that atleast attempt to make lines look sleek and sexy

[@TheShredist]

I won't lie, I love the paint job personally

[@lvpheno7025]

@@TheShredist everyone tells me they do look way better in person

[@akhmadhernowo677]

Very expensive...