There are a lot of people out there who think I only like slack bikes. Not true; it's just rare to find an exciting bike with a traditional head angle, but they're out there. This bike is one of them. The bar has been raised. This is the new high-water mark for hardtail trail bikes in my opinion. This one took a LOT of time to film and edit. I realize it's a long video, but if I were in the market I would watch every second of every review I could find about this bike. Yes, I repeat myself a few times in this review, but I see a lot of value in capturing the raw emotions as I'm riding, rather than scripting a perfect narrated review. If I had the budget for this bike, it would get ridden more than any other bike I own. For the record, I have zero affiliation with Spot. I don't make money when you buy one, and I don't benefit from giving them a favorable review. How would you order yours?
@harveyjoneswoodsman59563 жыл бұрын
Probably the same as you with the exception of also having the gears as well
@harveyjoneswoodsman59563 жыл бұрын
I've always been interested in belt drive especially for a ss
@Monkeyrobb3 жыл бұрын
I just got mine. 4 star build with 27.5 wheels. Have a set of 29” wheels that I had for my steel rocker (which I sold to buy the new one). Currently in Alaska so I won’t be able to ride it for a while, but moving to AZ this fall. Maybe we’ll cross trails sometime-I’ll be the other guy on a single speed. Great review, as usual!
@orrphism3 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much for taking the time and effort to make this awesome review. I really enjoyed your bike consultation service through Patreon and will be recommending it to others. I bought the 5-star geared build as it was the only build in stock and I want to be able to ride while the weather is good where I live. Also ordered the Nukeproof Horizon V2 wheels w/ the quiet pawl upgrade and Specialized Eliminator grid 2.3 and Ground Control grid 2.3 tires per your recommendation. My gf is beyond excited for this bike. Thanks again!
@forestray1833 жыл бұрын
Great review! I got mine with the 29 wheels and belt drive about two months ago to use as SS training/race bike. I share your enthusiasm for it - it's way more fun than it should be! So far I've changed the crankset to 170mm and I swapped out the seat for the same kind of seat I run on all my bikes. I agree with your final thoughts - if I were to order it again, I would definitely buy the geared version instead and change it to SS after the fact. Oddly the geared version is spec'd with 170mm cranks, while the SS comes with the 175mm cranks, so it would have saved me the crank swap in addition to coming with a drivetrain to use when not running SS. Unfortunately the bike nerd in me couldn't resist the shiny weirdness of the belt drive. One thing about the belt worth mentioning is that it is brilliant in the wet muddy winter conditions here in the PNW (quiet, smooth, doesn't get gummed up or collect gunk), and it is really easy to clean after a ride.
@davidhargrave86113 жыл бұрын
I just have to come back and say this review was on the mark! I swapped my Dv9 for this frame and I'm blown away by how fun and capable this bike is. It corners like nobody's business and is so fast and stiff while pedalling - yet, nice and supple for taking out some of the chatter. I'm running it with a 130mm Pike (52 rake), traditional SS (32x18), with 29x2.6 F (Rekon) & R (Ikon) on Ibis S35 wheels. The tires fit fine no matter the dropout position. I actually have the dropouts back a bit to get proper tension and the bike is still just incredibly nimble, yet stable. The only issue I've had is that I had to run a 160mm rotor on the back because the shape of the 4piston SLX brakes makes it so the caliper will contact the frame if not in the forward most dropout position. Amazing bike!
@chrisspargen70813 жыл бұрын
Hi David, 52 or 42mm rake? I'm guessing typo :) want to make sure before I install my Pike 130 Ultimate with 42mm rake!
@nathanwhitmire38882 жыл бұрын
Great to hear the 2.6 will fit on i35 in all dropout positions! I've just came back to this review as I've had this bike brought to my attention. By the end of the video I was thinking to myself, man if this bike would just fit a 2.6 on i35............
@bsmithhammer3 жыл бұрын
First ride on my new Rocker today. I'm seriously impressed. Climbs like a dream and I couldn't believe how hard I was able to push it on the descents, once I got the feel for what it's capable of. If your full sus bike is so plush that it's making your trails boring, get a Rocker, re-learn how to pick a line, and hang on.
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
It's such a special bike. Just wait till you've had 4 or 5 rides on it and you really get to know it. It's one of the most exciting bikes I've ever ridden. Glad you're loving yours.
@zed9zed2 жыл бұрын
Speaking of trail chatter, your ability to communicate effectively while also riding the trail is impressive.
@gzahnd3 жыл бұрын
I rode this bike today at Spot in Golden, and started laughing at your initial articulations of the ride characteristics because they were so similar to what I experienced. Well done, and highly accurate.
@yamahschector Жыл бұрын
Did you buy one?
@gzahnd Жыл бұрын
@@yamahschector yep, a year ago! Still love it.
@yamahschector Жыл бұрын
@@gzahnd they were closed the day I was free. I still need to go try one out
@yamahschector Жыл бұрын
So many places in Golden to go have fun on a bike and try them out it’s great.
@johngray28753 жыл бұрын
Thanks for this review Steve. The Spot Rocker looks like a really great bike, and they can ship me one in a matter of weeks. I ordered one last night.
@marcusgreco3 жыл бұрын
“Belts are lighter than chains” XC Mountain Bikers: I’ll Take YoUr EnTiRe sToCk
@shaunroach78293 жыл бұрын
What a review 🤘🤘🤘. Steve in the last couple reviews you have really showed us that Aluminum, Steel and Carbon frames really depend on how they are designed and not just frame material for the ultimate ride!!! Great job distinguishing the differences between the belt or chain drive!!! Fantastic review as always, 👏 great job!!!
@danfrst13 жыл бұрын
I met Wayne the other day at a local trailhead on my steel rocker! He was the nicest guy and was so stoked to see another Spot owner! Dude rips for 71!
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
Wayne is a SUPER nice dude.
@jalbrecht553 жыл бұрын
Thanks for making a long enough video to effectively cover all the variations you tested. Really good stuff.
@Onecogmike3 жыл бұрын
Who gave a thumbs down. One of Steves’s best bike reviews ever. He convinced me to buy one. This will be my 4th bike buy based on his reviews; Timberjack as a 27.5+ singlespeed, Ti RSD Middlechild as a 29 singlespeed, Honzo ESD For pure geared awesomeness.
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
I would apologize, but all of those are awesome bikes!
@CX_ChrisChow3 жыл бұрын
so this is the basically the crocodile Dundee knife of hardtails ... sweet!
@williamkinzel36353 жыл бұрын
Love this! Nice work Steve. "lose the kashima... who cares" yes!
@sixate3 жыл бұрын
What a great review. It was so long I couldn't watch it all on my lunch break! I love that the bike is so great without being so progressive and modern. Although, I could never run SS cause I'm the size of an NBA power forward so I need 12 gears. Sounds like a bike you need to buy. If I loved a bike that much there's no way I could send it back. And please keep these amazing reviews coming. I actually loved this long one. It showed so many trails of different variety. I'm soooo jealous. I just told my wife we need to vacation down there once my kid is a few years older so I can take him riding.
@Gbark71316 күн бұрын
Steve is correct about the belt drive. I gave it a shot. Went back to chain drive after a few months of dealing with it. It’s very very sandy here and that dries it out fast, and when it dries out it gets stupid loud. The belt especially does NOT like cogs smaller than the ones shown here. It will skip anyway with anything less than very tight drag-inducing tension unless you can find a snubber, and they’re hard to find. Spot will sell the Rocker without a drivetrain, and my one regret about trying the belt drive is I could’ve saved $150, but that’s not so bad. Buying the belt drive as parts is stupid expensive compared to that.
@crystaline1093 жыл бұрын
i've been looking forward to this review since i first saw you picked it up.
@byrrenyates30153 жыл бұрын
Thank you for the excellent review!...confirms I made the right decision getting the Rocker SS 29er. For the flowy single track I ride here in NorCal, blues and greens, it’s the perfect dream bike. Worth every penny for the smiles it gives me every time I ride. Only change I had to make was swapping for wider 2.35 tires.
@tazmystical3 жыл бұрын
Your guess about the cogs sizes needing to be larger for belt drive is spot on. The belt design limits how small the rear cog can get at 19t. But then the available belt length, front cog sizes ,and the chain stay lengths make the possible cog/belt combos limited per bike.
@certainperfectratio3 жыл бұрын
Spot on. Nice
@charlessimmons12893 жыл бұрын
Awesome review. I suspected this is the one to rule them all. Thank you for your hard work.
@wesleywermuth95453 жыл бұрын
Steve, thanks to you I own a Spot mayhem and now just got my new Spot Rocker (geared) a few weeks ago. I absolutely love the new Rocker! It took me a ride or two to get used to it because it is so light. It’s so fun to ride. Hoping to meet up with you at one of your rides in the future. Keep up the great work! I would think it would benefit Spot greatly to gift you a Rocker as it would be a great advertisement for them for a ROI.
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
I like the way you think. :) I wouldn't turn down a rocker...
@adamrossi70103 жыл бұрын
Steve, thanks for an amazing review on an amazing bike!! Your passion shows. Keep up the great work.
@ImAnEmergency2 жыл бұрын
5’ 6” checking in - you’ve got me rethinking which size to eventually get when I’m good enough to justify it!
@winnguyen4433 жыл бұрын
Glad I found your fantastic channel! I’m in the market , if bike companies will ever stock bikes again.
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
I'm glad you found it too.
@GrandpaGains3 жыл бұрын
This will go nicely with my 2019 Spot Mayhem130 you talked me into back in the winter of 2018. My wife is going to hate you Steve.. thanks for confirming what I'd would expect from Spot..
@pauls36163 жыл бұрын
Great review, more in depth and complete than any other source available. It looks like a fun ride and a bike that you would come home from work, fill up a water bottle and just go. Thank you Steve.
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
Exactly! There's beauty in the simplicity. And they got the perfect balance of 2 water bottles, straight seat tube, long dropper, killer ride feel, while staying light. That's a really tough combo for a lot of companies.
@randyhou85223 жыл бұрын
Great review. I wonder if a beefier 2.4" 29 tire would be the sweet spot to make it an all-rounder?
@marsluna21273 жыл бұрын
I looked at the geo numbers, regarding why it manuals well, I think the high-ish BB height and decently high stack number
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
I feel like a 50mm bb drop is oretty standard. The tall stack definitely helps.
@scottmclain7403 жыл бұрын
The video just looks like you were flying!
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
This bike is so fast.
@mikestivers83022 жыл бұрын
Steve your vid on DB's page for the Ryve 115 is what got me going w/ spot brand. btw, the Ryve is the best DC/XC bike i've been on so far.. so thanks for that. this bike looks sick too!
@danparish1344 Жыл бұрын
Can’t wait for mine to come in. Ordered it last week.
@danielesavi19693 жыл бұрын
Very good content. You deserve more subscribers.
@bdubs19673 жыл бұрын
I find this interesting vs. the Yeti ARC you rode. The HT angle is the same and the ST angle is ½ a degree slacker on the Spot. The spot has a shorter stack and longer reach. Just trying to rationalize the difference.
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
On paper they may look similar, but they couldn't feel more different on the trail.
@bdubs19673 жыл бұрын
@@hardtailparty So, why do you think that is?
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
Carbon layup, cs length, reach length, sta, and because I don't believe most geo charts are very accurate. It may only look like a degree or two here or there, but it all adds up.
@npalmi882 жыл бұрын
I fell in love with this bike from your review, ordered one, have yet to ride it.
@hardtailparty2 жыл бұрын
Time to ride that bad boy!
@tillybronte Жыл бұрын
I just got my bike (while visiting Ocala Florida) and really love it on the flowy trails at Santos. Super fast! I must admit, that I find getting the front end up for manuals and wheelies is much harder than with my Rocky Thunderbolt- better get out and work on it a bit more as you have no troubles with that in this review. Thanks very much,
@hardtailparty Жыл бұрын
It takes some getting used to. Try the chainstay in the shortest position and a riser bar. You have to lift the wheel higher off the ground than most for manuals. That's the long chainstay
@mattforst65913 жыл бұрын
Awesome review, thanks! I am very interested in this bike geared with 29 x 2.35 tires for Southern Wisconsin trails. Looks like I have a big decision to make this spring/summer (ARC, Nimble 9, etc.).
@datalaforge9 ай бұрын
I took a demo SS Rocker on a trail I ride a lot here in the Denver area and answered a phone call while on the climb and still PRd nearly every segment I rode while chatting with my friend. I really want one of these. I'd set it up SS, with an 2.3 Aggressor in back and a 2.4 DHRii in the front, big brakes and rotors, because, Colorado, and I'd probably put a chain on it to get the ratio I like. So, mine would be chonky compared to your setup but It would still be a couple of pounds lighter than my current setup.
@hardtailparty9 ай бұрын
It's a really special bike. Nothing climbs quite like it.
@Theriver563 жыл бұрын
Excellent review. I want one now. Thanks for making the hole in my wallet deeper.
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
There are a few purchase in life that hurt when I made them, but looking back, I wouldn't trade them for twice the price. This is one of those bikes, unless you're a bruiser with zero finesse.
@juancarlospena70892 жыл бұрын
I thinking about ordering one. Already reached out to them by email. They should at least give you a free frame. Honestly! You seem super passionate and honest. I don’t think it would corrupt what you’re doing. I would have never considered this if it wasn’t that I started following you. Still might hit you on Patreon for advice on size.
@hardtailparty2 жыл бұрын
Spot will have great advice for sizing. I liked this bike so much that i ended up buying one for myself.
@justincooper70153 жыл бұрын
That was awesome, now I want one!
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
You and me both!
@zombywoof99143 жыл бұрын
I wanted one of these before seeing the review, now I really want one. If I could just have one more bike...
@kimrice3942 жыл бұрын
Bought a frame. Chain drop due to flex is a problem. Probably why the belt drive is standard. Not the first SS frame I’ve owned to do this. My Ritchey P29 did the same. Supple for sure. Handles tech wonderfully, a true departure from the XC geo I’ve been on for years. It’s far from the fastest accelerating. I’ve owned S work level bikes so my bar is set high. I just came off a Soma B side. The Soma will eat this bikes’(Spot) lunch on Midwest flow. The Spot will climb and tech right past the Soma. I’m not bummed, I bought the Spot for the ride quality and confidence on tech. The geo is definitely amazing! Haven’t put 27.5 on it yet, maybe they will not have the leverage to flex the stays enough to drop a chain. Yes, a tensioner will fix it but… meh. Just telling my experience.
@Gbark71316 күн бұрын
Started with the belt, and that’s worse. Got a cog one jump down from stock and it skipped pretty often under load due to flex. Got a snubber to keep the belt from slipping, and you can hear the belt rolling against the snubber when the belt rides up on the teeth. Numerous issues for me with that thing. Gave up on the belt and went to chain drive. The chain will shift on the single cog, and makes a sound like “tink,” pretty often, but I’ve never dropped the chain once. I shifted the spacers so the cog is closer to the hub now, thinking it would keep the chain more stable seating on the cog, but it still does it a bit when the frame flexes. Trying a different chain next. Love the bike, but yeah that rear triangle does flex. Also the frame gap for the belt will creak given the right conditions. I tore the thing apart looking for the source and that of course was the very last thing. A little spray silicone and it was gone.
@chriskimber71793 жыл бұрын
Exciting bike! I haven't actually coveted a bike since 2008 when I picked up my custom welded 'Peyto'. This Spot has me thinking... maybe it's time to update my wheel size, head tube diameter and geometry to see how much better the humble hardtail has become. Thanks for getting me stoked!
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
There are still a lot of awful hardtails out there, but the good ones have come a LONG way. It's amazing what the best jardtaols rode like now.
@chriskimber71793 жыл бұрын
How rowdy can this rig get on 27.5+, or even a Mullet build with 140mm fork?
@justinofboulder3 жыл бұрын
Had a Spot Longboard (belt drive SS) back in 2008 and loved it! When I signed up for Leadville, I decided it might be wise to get on a geared bike so I chose to sell it. Sure do miss it, and am tempted....but am thinking I would probably have more fun on the geared set up. Thanks so much for the video!
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
I think this is the perfect leadville hardtail. If i were invited to race, it'd be on one of these.
@justinofboulder3 жыл бұрын
@@hardtailparty thanks for the reply! I ended up with a day off yesterday and was able to book a demo on the geared Rocker. What an amazing ride! Truly the most fun I have ever had on a mountain bike! Having never used a dropper post before, that alone blew me away. When I went to return the demo, I was literally ready to place an order, but after some talking, they really recommended that I ride the ryve first. I am hoping to have some time to do that in a couple of weeks. 🤪
@georgeirvingnormaniii32913 жыл бұрын
Spot luck out with you-another great review *****
@tombowman94633 жыл бұрын
Wow, that looks like fun. It makes me think that a light build would make a gravel bike pointless too.
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
There would be a good amount of overlap.
@tombowman94633 жыл бұрын
@@hardtailparty I wonder if the Rocker would accept even narrower tires. Not sure that would ever seem necessary, but it's a thought.
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
@@tombowman9463 every bike on the plannet can accept narrower tires, it's just a question of the rims.
@tombowman94633 жыл бұрын
@@hardtailparty Well, I guess so. Duh! :)
@chasepalpatine1703 жыл бұрын
Spot should just give you the bike.
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
I wish! They've got bills to pay too, and they're a pretty small company.
@MrNickHanson3 жыл бұрын
Dang, good review.
@tazmystical3 жыл бұрын
I love my Rocker. Have a 120 SID Ultimate that I run 29x2.35 for XC races, then I swap on a 130 Pike Ultimate and some Berd wheels with 27.5x2.8 for fun all day SS adventures. I have a Ryve and Mayhem on the wall and I still grab the Rocker more days lol.
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
Sounds like a killer setup. I've been digging my Atomik/berd wheels lately. I wanted to run them on this bike for some testing, but I ran out of time.
@mattforst65913 жыл бұрын
That does it I am sold on this bike.
@nickgiordano16283 жыл бұрын
John, are you running a lockout on the SID? I'm thinking of the same frame/fork pairing. Coming from a rigid SS, I'm considering the lockout. Needed, or is it plenty efficient without?
@djsaintb2 жыл бұрын
@John - How close is the Ryve to the Rocker? It’s mostly blues and greens in the Philly area, so hardtail has filled-the-bill to date. But wondering if the 115mm Ryve has enough of that hardtail feel in its short travel to keep it peppy and responsive…
@donmcwha31653 жыл бұрын
Gidday Steve, Thanks for your honest and informative reviews. Love your style. I'm particularly interested in Carbon XC bikes. I have recently purchased a Canyon Exceed CF SLX 8.0. I don't suppose you could get hold of one of those for a review. Anyway, keep up the great work.
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
I'd love to, but canyon has some of the least inventory on the planet.
@darthjohn03 жыл бұрын
I just returned my Exceed CF SLX 9 (US-spec). Size M was too big for me (5'10", 33in inseam); Canyon's sizing is very frustrating. Was very sad. The Exceed CF SL 8 is in stock now; I'm considering it but this Spot Rocker review has got me thinking more.
@donmcwha31653 жыл бұрын
@@darthjohn0 interesting. I’m 5’8” 173cm. They recommend a Sml. But the reach told me I was a Med. Reviews also told me that I was probably a Med so that’s what I ended up with. I have the dropper post at its lowest possible setting and luckily it fits me perfectly. I can’t help but wonder what a Sml would have been like. I’m happy with the Med though.
@darthjohn03 жыл бұрын
@@keirfarnum6811 I have a 32" inseam and at the lowest height the seat was about 34" from the pedals. I think it had to do with the dropper; I think without it the seat post could go lower.
@yamahschector Жыл бұрын
I never realized how many shops options I had in colorado. I can go check out the spot, a yeti, a commencal and a hand full of other bikes. I found a trek roscoe 9 in my size in stock. A Santa Cruz chameleon in my size. Now need to find a banshee a ragley and an rsd.
@Onecogmike3 жыл бұрын
I believe you have convinced me on what bike to get to put my Carbon 30’s 27.5+ with Chris kings wheelset that’s been hanging in my garage for two years on. Singlespeed of course.
@davidhargrave86113 жыл бұрын
Such a great review! I really appreciate the time you took to cover the different variations. I know you found the Dv9 to be pretty fast and responsive as well. Frame weights are pretty close. How does is stack up to the Spot?
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
spot is more compliant.
@piccolo62142 жыл бұрын
What sort of multi-tool was that at 7:45 ??? Enjoy your videos! Honest reviews and really good advice.
@bigbigbigbadbill3 жыл бұрын
Looks so good!
@joshsteele25119 ай бұрын
Almost identical geo to a Yeti Arc. Sweet bike
@enzol56283 жыл бұрын
love to see traditional bikes!
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
Sadly, so many of them are boring these days and they often have sketchy handling. Not the case with the Rocker though!
@enzol56283 жыл бұрын
@@hardtailparty I'm a huge fan of being underbiked rather than overbiked. well done spot!
@jimsmart19513 жыл бұрын
How would you compare this bike to the Niner Sir 9? The Niner is a little steeper, but it seemed you had a great time on that one as well.
@hardmtnbiker3 жыл бұрын
Sounds like a carbon hardtail that dispels all the stereotypes. 67 HTA is still doable and depending on the rest of the Geo and set up, it may be perfect for many trails.The belt drive is a super cool application and obviously can make the bike much less maintenance, the downside is the bigger proprietary rings and cogs. I can’t imagine using Stan’s Crest and Racing XC tires, unless I just want to race or PR on a climb. I actually had Crest rims on my gravel bike until I went wider. The 27.5 plus would be the better set up for me, perhaps a carbon fork. If you’re into it, try that ENVE fork on it?
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
This bike has already gone back to spot unfortunately. I wish I had time to test every bike in a handful of configurations, that'd be fun. I don't live in the right part of the world to maximize a rigid fork.
@tazmystical3 жыл бұрын
A Rocker owner on the Spot FB page built his SS with a chain setup so he could play with gearing more. Pick up a frame and have at it! I've contemplated a rigid fork for my Rocker for cold bitter winter riding.
@hardmtnbiker3 жыл бұрын
@@tazmystical I have the ENVE Mtn fork on my Seven Sola SLX. I considered getting the Carbon Gates belt drive when I ordered my custom frame 5 years ago but felt it would limit my gear selection. I’m intrigued that Spot has made a compliant and supple hardtail and also think that 67HTA is perfect for a rigid SS. Just my 2cents
@hardmtnbiker3 жыл бұрын
@@hardtailparty Yep, I completely understand and see that your trails are definitely not rigid bike friendly. They’re also way to harsh for those narrow Stan’s Crest with 2.4” Nobby Nics, I’m sure they needed to be at the higher end of PSI and CushCore would have made them a bit more tolerable.
@renewrestoreexteriorcleani52732 жыл бұрын
I am seriously considering picking one of these up but after re watching this video I have concerns or questions really. You said it is almost too lite, would a steel or aluminum frame be better for more trail options? Would either of the other frame materials have negative effects on the playful manner of the bike? What is the best frame material?
@hardtailparty2 жыл бұрын
It all depends. This is the kind of stuff I cover on my bike consultation service. I'd be happy to help you over there.
@lmrod013 жыл бұрын
Great review! Your review sounds very much how I currently feel about my 2016 Canfield EPO. I feel like it is the perfect balance between a CX rig and a rowdy trail bike. Fast and snappy, but planted and stable. I currently ride it with Minion 2.5 upfront and an Aggressor 2.3 on back, makes for a bit heavier ride, but in the lose kitty litter terrain of the pikes peak region, it feels perfect. Wondering if you ever had a chance to ride an EPO and what are your thoughts in comparison. I have been thinking of getting the Spot, but I just love my EPO so much is a hard decision. Keep up the great work!
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
Unfortunately i haven't ridden a 2016 epo before.
@alanclarke49652 жыл бұрын
@@hardtailparty I have an EPO as well, which makes watching your channel quite relaxing since I know I'm not looking for a new hardtail!
@mpk333 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the length of this detailed video & all your effort Steve. Wow, what a bike! I wish I had that kind of dosh to afford it & then customize it exactly to my liking. Do you have a Paypal so I can buy you & Tess a coffee to say a small thanks for all your great videos I've watched by youse in the year or so?
@jeremyprovonsil78862 жыл бұрын
Great review. This bike is pretty interesting. Any future plans to review the Guerilla Gravity Pedalhead?
@hardtailparty2 жыл бұрын
yes
@designfoodtogo2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the review Steve. I am curious if you kept the Fox 34 stepcast or went with a beefier Fox or Rockshox or? I am starting to search for used Pike 130s as a replacement. but I am still undecided. I am between 210 and 220lbs on a Medium Rocker
@hardtailparty2 жыл бұрын
I kept the stepcast, it's one of my favorite fork, but I only weigh 180. At 220, I'd go for a pike. If you decide to sell in your sc34, let me know.
@designfoodtogo2 жыл бұрын
@@hardtailparty Thanks! I am only 2 rides in. so fun. I don't ride nearly as hard as you though. I need to change that Spot seat though. If I change to a Pike I will let you know.
@roytal19713 жыл бұрын
My dream bike!
@marcusgreco3 жыл бұрын
I’m still a bit confused how a belt drive works? When it comes to shifting I thought there is none so how do you go downhill without spinning out and how do you got up super steep tech without being able to go into a lower gear. I might be an idiot here but I’m just a little confused how belt drive works 😂 sorry. Also awesome if mate! I love the way you structure your reviews so keep up the amazing work :-)
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
The belt drive is singlespeed only. You learn to adapt with a singlespeed an muscle up tricky terrain. When i put gears on, i swapped to a chain.
@buckroger64563 жыл бұрын
You can get gears with a belt drive but that would mean getting a pinion gearbox or Rohloff gearhub equipped bike.
@user-lc2mu9jk2b3 жыл бұрын
Would you take it for bikepacking?
@rolyap89933 жыл бұрын
Great insight here as always! It seems to me there is a trend of people over-tiring their bikes (ie. running enduro/downhill treads on a trail bike) that are only useful on a tiny portion of the features they actually ride frequently, and the rest of the time are just eating away your speed/flow. I think something light like a Dissector/Rekon F/R combo is sufficient in most trail bike scenarios. What do you guys think?
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
Depends on where you live. The dissector was actually designed as a dh tire. These eliminators I'm running up front are a dh tire too. Tires are super personal, but a grippy, aggressive tire can add tons of confidence on an otherwise sketchy bike.
@BlakeHerrmann3 жыл бұрын
Would love to see a review on the Specialized Epic Hardtail.
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
I've ridden one, but never reviewed it. Maybe in the future.
@ulydoingthings3 жыл бұрын
@@hardtailparty im in the market for a more of a Xc bike. The Specialized Epic is on my radar so I'm glad to see this review 🙌 Please review the Epic if you can.
@BlakeHerrmann3 жыл бұрын
Thanks!
@mattturner75933 жыл бұрын
Would like to see 2021 giant fathom. It looks like a nice budget hard tail.
@trailblazeratv63063 жыл бұрын
Are you saying you do not want to spend $3600 on a Hardtail? Ha ha
@mattturner75933 жыл бұрын
@@trailblazeratv6306 lol
@pepeanza61873 жыл бұрын
I can tell you I have one since last November fathom 29 1 I'm not goin to say to much but this bike change my mind about new geometry after 4 months of riding this hardtail I try my enduro 29 specialized 2016 full suspension the las weekend and decide to sell the enduro and put the fathom as my main bike incredible that a new hardtail whit new geometry performs better than a 4-5 years ago full suspension enduro bike
@stevencole73313 жыл бұрын
2.3 is my favorite 29er tire size front and back . For me it's in that perfect zone of not to heavy but still able to absorb the terrain I ride on . I wonder if this bike would be competitive in an xc race ? You have proven it was up to an endurance challenge
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
I believe it would be extremely competitive in an xc race.
@BlakeHerrmann3 жыл бұрын
Love the Maxxis dhf 2.3 front and Ardent race 2.35 rear on my race hardtails! Raced and ridden on all terrain including Sedona.
@stevencole73313 жыл бұрын
@@BlakeHerrmann I use the dhr2 front and back . Works well in my high desert location in socal . I experimented with other manufacturers and Maxxis just outperforms the competition on my terrain . The Dhr2 is just a bit faster and not giving up much on grip from what I have seen
@BlakeHerrmann3 жыл бұрын
If you like the dhr2, try the dissector lightweight 2.4 tire! Have those front and rear on my other bike and might be the best tire Maxxis makes all around!
@JoshTaylor3 жыл бұрын
Had to watch this video after the reading some of the comments in the Stanton Sherpa ti vs steel video. This looks awesome but really don't like the price of the frame so if I'm swapping from my Kona Big Honzo DL, perhaps the Sherpa in Reynolds steel is it?
@halnogaies1256 Жыл бұрын
Hey, i found it interesting that you talked about a bike being too light. What are the consequences of a bike being too light? My fuse comes in at 25.4 lbs and I wonder if that is too light.
@Cesium673 жыл бұрын
Nice bike. I like the geo on this one. Do they sell as frame only?
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
Yes
@danjdavison3 жыл бұрын
I’m turning my Rocky Mountain Suzi Q RSL into a hardtail with 29er plus wheels. I expect it to ride similar to the Spot given it would have similar geo with a Step Cast 34 on it.
@mikecarter67583 жыл бұрын
Steve, what trails did you ride? Going to be in Sedona this month and these look great.
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
There are about 15 different trails on this one. Sedona doesn't have any bad trails. :)
@gregling2 жыл бұрын
I have watched this review at least 7 times and really want to get this bike, but I already have a Spot Honey Badger that I ride almost every day that is so much fun. I feel much the same as you describe on that bike. Have you ridden the earlier Spot single speeds? The longboard, steel rocker or honey badger? I may have missed it but you don't mention this. I think Spot bikes have felt like this for a while. This one just happens to be carbon. Or am I wrong? I'd like to be convinced. I've never had too many bikes!
@hardtailparty2 жыл бұрын
I've never ridden the original honey badger, sorry.
@gregling Жыл бұрын
@@hardtailparty Thanks for your reply! I was too tempted and did order the carbon Rocker SS with the end of season discount prices. It is being delivered tomorrow and I can't wait! It is my 4th belt drive bike and I won't ever go back. I appreciate your review!
@hardtailparty Жыл бұрын
@@gregling congrats, it's an amazing bike.
@renegarza9903 жыл бұрын
Would love to see a review on a Scott scale 940 carbon fiber frame.
@user-lc2mu9jk2b3 жыл бұрын
You say the cranks are too long, but the looking at the geometry the BB is higher than many (most) other bike. Interesting...
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
For ideal crank length, you should factor on more than just pedal strikes.
@Rocky_Bikeboa3 жыл бұрын
Cool! How does it compare to the Canfield Nimble9?
@stevenpowers96093 жыл бұрын
I was between the Rocker and Esker Japhy when they were both getting ready to hit the market a few months ago. I ended up with the Japhy and absolutely love it, but you're making me wonder if I made the right choice lol
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
Ah dang, you should have signed up for my consultation service. I have a japhy in for review right now and i can compare the two. They're very different.
@nickgiordano16283 жыл бұрын
@@hardtailparty Japhy vs. Sendero vs. Rocker?
@jhuanger3 жыл бұрын
man that 27.5+ looks so much fun! would do great here in socal. were your running any inserts in the 27.5+? what kind of tire pressure were you running?
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
Zero inserts. I believed i was around 14psi.
@glenlyman28822 жыл бұрын
Hey Steve, I have one of these in my shopping cart. Spot is swapping the M handlebars to XL for me, and swapping the belt gear ratio to 42/26 (with the black belt, rather than the red....apparently it fits the teeth better). My hesitation on pulling the trigger is the "Plus vs. 29er" question. I've watched your video a bunch of times and keep getting stuck on this point....(kind of the way that the 27.5+ on the rear of my Timberjack gets stuck on rocks, when the 29er front rolled over them smoothly). Anyway, do you remember feeling an overabundance of that 27.5 "stick" in plus mode happening on the Spot Rocker, or did that carbon compliance smooth things out enough to compensate?
@hardtailparty2 жыл бұрын
I don't think I understand the question.
@glenlyman28822 жыл бұрын
Sorry, that was my attempt to give some background and to set my question up with some shared MTB situational "humor" about how 27.5 tires tend to get hung up (or "stuck") on rocks that 29ers do not, due to the difference in attack angles. So with that clarification, I'll try my Question again: In 27.5 plus mode, did the tires on the Spot Rocker seem to get hung up more on rocks than when you had it in the stock 29er mode? Sometimes you mention this phenomena in reviews, but you didn't this time, so I'm wondering if it just wasn't noticeable, or if it was an oversight.
@hardtailparty2 жыл бұрын
@@glenlyman2882 Yes, the 27.5+ tires get hung up a little more on ledges than the 29er. The 29er maintains momentum better, but it's a little stiffer.
@bartl.7390 Жыл бұрын
27.5+ vs 29 question boils down to purpose, terrains and the rider. For example, I am also considering this bike for SS racing, on rocky Arizona terrain and I am OK technical rider (can't manual easily like Steve) So I am definitely getting the 29er wheels. Yes the rollover rocky garden easier and roll faster. I think 27.5 is better suited for a good tech. rider on a very gnarly terrain...like Sedona. I will be taking my full suspension to Sedona and definitely no racing there. IMHO, the narrow tires carve the corner better on smooth trails, the plus tires really numb the ride for me... you really have to play with the pressures.
@andreuosika3 жыл бұрын
Great review - sorry if I missed it, where do you ride?
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
Sedona, az
@cosmic29142 жыл бұрын
Beautiful bike with drive lovely. You can fit rohloff on this right? I love belt drive using commuter belt drive its perfect l.
@musarra1959 ай бұрын
Which build would you recommend ? Thank you
@musarra1959 ай бұрын
Just bought mine. Went to the showroom in Golden while I was visiting. I’m hooked
@noahmills28843 жыл бұрын
Another one for the list
@bxpais2 жыл бұрын
Great review. I am thinking of the rocker 29 for bikepacking but I can't find any reviews that tend to that. Do you feel it would be a worthy machine for that?
@hardtailparty2 жыл бұрын
I usually prefer metal bikes for bikepacking, but apart from that it'd be great.
@jeffcomstock58842 жыл бұрын
What size did you ride? I'm between a Med and large at 5'9.5"
@berndkraemer28323 жыл бұрын
Thanks Steve for this great and very detailed review - I was waiting for this to drop. From the few weeks and about 500 km that I have put on mine, I can say that you are spot on. That thing climbs like no other (geared) and you come in much too fast on a lot of DHs, like you said. It is so much fun to ride and full days on this bike are very comfortable. My Nomad is collecting dust in the garage right now 😂😂. In terms of brakes, I also agree that they are on the weak side (I have the TLMs and don't know if that means different calipers). I had Spot put on a 180 mm on the rear but I think it is the SRAM brake itself - XTs would certainly much better in terms of braking power. My size L has 170 mm cranks on and that just perfect. I am running 29er carbon rims (Lightbicycle AM930) at 30 mm wide and have Conti Cross and Race Kings on, which is not grippy enough for the dust here in NorCal. Will definitely try something beefier on the front as you suggest. Thanks again for helping me choose this fun bike!!!
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
My pleasure! It's great to hear that you're loving it so much. It just made me smile every time I rode it. It's a very exciting ride.
@mad-lex Жыл бұрын
Hey :) ! Thanks for your insights on the bike. I was wondering if you can safely perform jumps on it ? I asked Spot about the ASTM rating and it's 3 which means jumps under 61cm. So I guess going too hard on it would probably break the frame ? thanks ! Alex
@michaelthoen51292 жыл бұрын
Have you done a geo check in your shop to see how the true geo is compared to what Spot put on the geo charts? Have you installed a Slack R headset?
@hardtailparty2 жыл бұрын
Not yet and no. I don't feel like i need it any slacker. (Fyi, a slack-r doesn't work on bikes that don't have integrated headsets)
@brandontressler24743 жыл бұрын
Do you like it better than the Ionic Johnny Rotten?
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
They have a very different personality. I like both for different reasons. I'd rather have the Spot myself.
@squishlefunke3 жыл бұрын
Tuning a belt drive tension according to to the pitch is amazing... Does the app tell you to tune to a lower note if you ride a larger size bike? 😂
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
Same size chainstay on all sizes.
@mid25733 жыл бұрын
...even better/more fun than Banshee Paradox in xc mode?
@isaacbrooks59993 жыл бұрын
23 lbs 😳 !!
@mellissanash75173 жыл бұрын
You have really sold on this with wider 29er tires. Is their carbon that much better tuned than say the DV9? How is on road for those of us that ride to the trails?
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
Yes, it's WAY more compliant than the dv9. All mtbs are fine on the road.
@jbear753 жыл бұрын
Spot says it can be slackened out to 66 degrees with a Works Components angleset at 130mm travel. Earlier you posted that you wouldn't slacken it out. Still, wondering if that would edge it just enough towards "all mountain" for many of us.
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
I don't feel like it needs it, but i always encourage people to experiment with their bikes. I feel like it's so light that it'll never ride like an all mountain bike. It's also got a 60mm stem. If you skacken it, you'll want a shorter stem, which means effective reach is even shorter
@jbear753 жыл бұрын
@@hardtailparty That's a good point so sizing relative to your body size/reach comes in to play when you slack it out, especially if you use their stem setup. Hopefully they will release a frame only option I've got another hardtail that needs to be cannibalized anyways :)
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
They sell it as a frame only.
@jbear753 жыл бұрын
@@hardtailparty Thanks for pointing that out. Totally missed that in their drop down menu.
@nickgiordano16283 жыл бұрын
Excellent review! I've been waiting for this one. Do you think the rear could clear a 2.4/2.4WT on an i30 rim?
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
Absokutely. You could go up to a 29x3.0 up front i believe. That's a limit of the fork, not the frame. I'll bet you could go even wider than a 2.4 in the rear. The guys at spot could tell you for certain.
@tl92352 жыл бұрын
My husband just put 2.4 on his, the stock tires had no grab, too gravel/XC
@galatians22122 Жыл бұрын
Where is this Trail?
@DAMN551173 жыл бұрын
YES. This would be a perfect complement to my 5010 for MN. Is it too fragile to bike pack, say the CO trail?
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
I don't love strapping bags to carbon frames. It doesn't take much to rub through the carbon and weaken the frame. My wife bikepacks with her carbon dv9 all the time, but she always tapes it up with electrical tape before heading out.
@rich72393 жыл бұрын
Love the review, do you think using a cane creek Angleset and bringing it to a 65.5 degree head tube would make it more capable on the downhill. I ride a lot of chunky downhill and just curious if that would take away from the intended bike feel.
@hardtailparty3 жыл бұрын
I think it's the wrong bike for the application if you're wanting it slacker.