The Steel Vs Titanium Battle - Which Stanton Sherpa Gen 3 is Better? Reynolds 853 Steel vs Titanium

[@hardtailparty]

Huge shoutout to Stanton for sending both of these in for a back to back test. The Stanton Sherpa is a special bike. Before this I've struggled to find a light, supple steel hardtail with modern geo. Which one would you order, steel or ti? Which one suits your riding style the best? Note: These are my experiences. Your results may vary.

[@AnthonyOrtega-ki4mx]

Did I just here you have spot rocker now

[@mjl325is]

What Seat tube material are your posts ?

[@sixate]

Haha, you own a Spot Rocker! I think I commented you needed to buy one since you loved it so much. I'd go TI on that frame. I don't have the rocks that you have in AZ. Another amazing review. Love it.

[@hardtailparty]

@@mjl325is dropper material (aluminum)

[@letour32rr]

Some people use joint injuries to predict the weather. Steve uses them to determine a frame’s compliance. I applaud you sir, that’s awesome!

[@johng6369]

What a great series of reviews. In January I received a 4130 Sherpa, I took Dan's word that it was comparable to the 853 version. After riding my bike and hearing your reviews I think Dan's word is right on. For your viewers @ 6'0"/33" inseam with 170mm cranks on a 19" frame, I run 190mm of a 200mm adjustable (pnw) seatpost. Keep up the good work Steve!

[@mellissanash7517]

Do you know the weight diff between the two steel models? That really bodes well as 4130 fits my budget better.

[@johng6369]

@@mellissanash7517 Sorry, I don't. It is said to be very close.

[@mellissanash7517]

@@johng6369 thank you

[@kukri52231]

Would you consider making more skills/tutorial videos? I really got a lot out of your modern vs old school riding video. I think us hardtail riders could benefit from skill videos catered to hardtail riding from someone like you who makes it look so easy! I struggle to handle the fast downhill chunk and technicals moves you regularly do

[@hardtailparty]

Yes, i have a plan to do more of those. Thanks for the feedback. For the record, i struggle with fast downhill chunk on a hardtail as well. :)

[@niceG3s]

I agree. I’m going to get bucked off at some point.

[@whatchulookinat338]

@@niceG3s tuck and roll pinkys in

[@janethale6591]

Thanks for the comparison video, I have my Sherpa Ti being delivered this Sunday, excited is an understatement

[@hardtailparty]

massive congrats on a killer bike!

[@nomadesbtt307]

this is by far the best bike reviews on internet. Congrats Steve! keep them coming

[@hardtailparty]

Thanks so much!

[@dirtyspokecycling7580]

Steve, another episode of top notch content! Wanted to let you know that when I get close to pulling the trigger on a Titanium Hardtail, I will be using your consulting program to help me narrow my ever expanding list of bikes! Your perceptions of each bike are amazing! Your ability to verbalize what you feel, allows us to visualize the subtle differences so easily, it’s quite a unique talent! Thank you for your hard work! On another note, I picked up a Lab Austere hip pack, I don’t know why I’m so surprised that it’s so comfortable! It’s now my go to pack for rides less than 3 hrs! I’ve found myself reaching back to make sure it’s still around my girthy waist. I’m 5’13” and 240lbs and ride rather aggressively! Thanks for doing the hard work of finding what works and Thanks for the discount!! ~Shannon

[@shaunroach7829]

Outstanding review!!! Such great content and the reviews were spot on and surprising as well!! No BS Ti is better blah blah or the steel is too heavy blah blah. Very informative as usual and what a great breakdown between the two frames. I’m sure most of us thought the TI might blow the steel frame out of the water but it didn’t!! Both unique and great for what a individual rider is looking for!! Great job Steve top notch as usual!!! 👍👍👍💪💪

[@edwardweiszbeck1649]

Dude your reviews are so intelligent. I understood everything of what you meant. Most all of us viewers would because of your good explanations

[@sheridaninstalls]

Great work Steve..I live in The South of England which is more fast Single track and long steep climbs, and very little chunk or rocks..So the racey Ti was the correct choice for me for 95% of my riding..TF : ) As always though, a great rider on a crap bike will kill a crap rider on a great bike.. Keep up the fun work!!

[@buckroger6456]

Great review again. Really glade that you pointed out that not all steel or titanium frames will feel the same. Tube thickness makes a big difference on the way these bikes feel. Most bike companies that do steel and titanium often do custom builds and can help you to build a bike that has the feel your after.

[@JohnDoe-zb7dz]

On my way home today (from a hard tail ride of coarse), I was thinking it's about time for a new episode of hardtail party and BAMM! Here you are. I'm addicted to these. Dude your video count has to be surging because I know I watched all your videos and some more than once. Party on!!!

[@hardtailparty]

Thanks for the kind words.

[@persistentconsistency]

Haha! I am currently on something like a 3-day bender of watching the videos and typing on a spreadsheet to try and sort out pros, cons and other tidbits of info. Absolutely outstanding channel!

[@roblootens2994]

Awesome review!! And I'm so happy that I picked the 853. Mine shipped yesterday, giving me time to tear down my Timberjack for building the Sherpa. May update to a better 27.5 wheelset as I'm going to use mine mostly for bikepacking. Plus all day exploration rides. Thanks Steve!

[@JoshTaylor]

Did you get it put together? How is it?

[@byrrenyates3015]

Shout out to Steve for his consultation service which helped me decide on the Stanton Ti which suits my riding style and trails. Great review, confirms my choice and can’t wait to build it up!

[@hardtailparty]

Thanks for the kind words byrren

[@noonster55]

Maybe my favorite bike I have ever owned, had a Reynolds 853 frame. A road bike. A Raleigh Team Issue with Dura-Ace 6 speed friction down tube shifters. Everything on the bike was Dura-Ace, hubs, bottom bracket, even pedals. But the steel frame was what made the ride special. I have owned lots of bikes over 40 plus years of riding. That one I will never forget.

[@wd99999]

You sir are the frame whisperer!

[@tomerg2]

These back to back bike reviews with different metals are so good, excellent job 🙌🙌🙌 Ps. Any chance of a Pipedream Sirius/Moxie review?

[@happychabi858]

BUMP!

[@UncleNutNut]

I had hard time choosing but eventually went 853 Sherpa and on this review glad I did as it suits what I am using it for (local xc rides with comfort more important than times!). Starling Swoop takes care of the big days! Thanks for review!!

[@ronnyraasch2181]

whenever there's a chance: if you get to ride and compare 4130 to Reynold 853 version of the Stanton Sherpa Gen.3 - let us know your thoughts, please

[@hardtailparty]

Will do. That's a big ask for stanton to send another frame, but who knows... They've been awesome to work with.

[@dl6860]

That's dedication. You deserve 1m followers!!! broken bones and still riding for us??? We wish you FAST and FULL healing!

[@rufant6110]

Such inventive original content. A one man army! Keep it up fella.

[@patchesthejaybird8431]

The steel Sherpa would be high on my list if I was looking for a 29" bike. I'm still glad I picked up the 27.5 Cotic Soul last year while they were still available! Its been a hard charging, but light weight ride, that doesn't rattle me too much, or cause numbness because of undue vibration. Anyway, great review Steve! I'm sure Stanton will be running short on Sherpa frames soon. I also wonder how the 4130 Sherpa compares to the Reynolds, both in weight and ride quality.

[@MRX5000X]

Awesome review and comparison. Sherpa 853 seems like the ideal replacement when it’s time to replace my 2012 Jamis Dragon 853 27.5.

[@johnnykramolis7469]

Great efford you've put into the comparsion. Amazing! 👍

[@renereyes4634]

Nice job Steve, always entertaining to watch your comparison of bikes.

[@dannylilley88]

Great video ! I’ve had Stanton on my mind for so long and I think the Sherpa would suit me

[@slofax1251]

As always, great review Steve!

[@William.N]

Does this mean you will need to have a broken finger every time you do a frame materials comparison? How else are we going to get a real understanding of how stiff or supple the bike is? 😋 Great review as always! My son loves the green bike.

[@jeffsharp4982]

I wonder how much of the different ride feel / stiffness on the Ti vs the steel has to do with the 31.6 seat tube vs the 30.9 on the steel frame?

[@ElevationEveryWeekend]

I think I would go the Ti, as I have become a fan of more of those carbon ride characteristics. I think with the Ti you get the performance, and can switch to higher volume plus tires for long rides/bikepacking to improve comfort.

[@laytonbaker]

Looking forward to trying a Stanton some day. I just bought a Why Wayward V2 frame... waiting on a few components to finish up the build. The frame is a work of modern art.

[@johnster187]

I have been waiting for this video and I must say after seeing this bike I've cancelled an order to buy a Ribble and now I'm torn between the steel version of this bike and a Cotic Bfe max. Decisions decisions 🤦.......... Thank you so much for this video, helped me realise a lot. 👍🏻

[@hardtailparty]

The BFEmax and Sherpa ride completely different.

[@johnster187]

I live near the Peak District in the UK and im originally looking for 2 bikes.....1st a bike that can be ridden all day and maybe a bit of bike packing too. Also im in the process of selling my full suspension bike and replacing that with an hardcore hardtail. The Cotic Bfe max would be the one to replace the full suspension, cant afford both just yet and im torn on which to buy first.....

[@hardtailparty]

@@johnster187 sounds like you'd be a good candidate for my bike consultation service. When you get close to decision time, if you're still struggling, hit me up.

[@johnster187]

@@hardtailparty 100% will do that.

[@thomaskuhn6541]

Great comparison, thanks. I'm also really curious about the Tai 4130 vs the UK built Reynolds because the upcharge for the UK version is significant. I'm guessing I could be really happy with the Tai frame and an extra 290 quid in my pocket to put towards a great wheelset or fork.

[@JoshTaylor]

@@cycling_plurality what frame size?

[@randyhou8522]

Would LOVE a Stanton Slackline review. Given your high marks on the Switch 9er and the Sherpa, makes sense to complete the Stanton line, right?

[@hardtailparty]

I'm hoping it'll happen one day. I don't have many 27.5 parts (Fork and wheels), so I'll have to start searching for those.

[@randyhou8522]

@@hardtailparty I run my Slackline with 27.5 x 2.8. I think that’s the biggest tire it can accept. So if you can find 2.8 tires maybe you can use the same wheels and fork on your current plus setup?

[@hardtailparty]

@@randyhou8522 i have 27.5 x 2.6. now i just need a 27.5 fork

[@Phonophobia]

Stif Squatch review when? We have been teased a lot and mine arrives tomorrow. People need to know about this thing :)

[@hardtailparty]

That's up to stiff. Ice reached out to them many times, but i haven't been able to convince them to send one in for review. I think if enough subscribers politely contacted them, explaining why they'd like to see it reviewed on the channel, they may decide to send one.

[@marklyon5646]

Great comparison and words of caution. I have a personal problem with Ti, if I'm anywhere near it I'll take out a second mortgage to make it happen. Hardtails, fishing gear even silver wear, as you pointed out it isn't always better. I'm looking for a group (Ti Anonymous) to help with my difficulties...

[@hardtailparty]

I should belong to that group. There's something special about a great ti frame.

[@persistentconsistency]

Hahaha! You got me cracking up over here! Healthy addictions always get a bit of a pass!

[@JoshTaylor]

Been waiting for this!

[@pilotjcm]

Thanks for this video. Hope your pinky finger gets better, however it was a painful accelerometer for your tests. I got the steel frame, because it was under my radar for some time and your review help me to get there.

[@jonamcc]

dang. your review of the sherpa ti makes it sound like the perfect frame to eventually “sidegrade” from my cannondale carbon ht.

[@AbrahamBarberi]

Great video as always! Please make more how to’s video (how to do drops on a hardtail, how to corner on a hardtail, etc.) Thanks

[@wesleywermuth9545]

Both seem like fantastic bikes. I may now consider getting a steel Sherpa. Great video and review!

[@zachscherpa944]

I bought a 853 steel one and it’s absolute magic!

[@michaelguerin56]

Thank you for your professional, dispassionate and highly informative reviews. It would definitely be the Reynolds frame for me, largely because, as a 59 year old whose life long jaw-joint problem was not diagnosed by the medical profession until shortly before my 34th birthday; I have to constantly manage flexibility (and chronic pain) issues with my neck, shoulders and arms (and associated breathing issues). The more relaxed I can be on a bike, the better. That being said, I can see how the Ti version could be the dream bike for someone else. Meanwhile, I need to start economising on unnecessary items, in order to build up my discretionary budget.

[@hardtailparty]

I'll be testing the 4130 model against the Reynolds 853 model soon to see how they compare. I wonder if a full suspension would be a better option for you with the joint issues you're experiencing.

[@michaelguerin56]

@@hardtailparty It might be, although a full suspension bike has more components and greater mass. I also understand that the identified early handling issues with wheelbase changes in tricky corners have been largely resolved. However, as a carpenter who also served for 12 years as a Territorial Force (part time) Royal New Zealand Engineer, I am well aware of the compromises involved in the use of aluminium alloy load bearing components. I will watch your video comparing the 4130 to the Reynolds 853 model. Stanton bikes and frames seem to be available at accessible prices in NZ. My current bike is a 1993 Marin Palisades Trail which I picked up in October? 1992. I intend to get back properly into local trail riding BUT for decades there seemed to be minimal real progress in mountain bike development at the mass market level. The time it took to introduce larger wheel sizes and transfer hydraulic disc brake technology from tandem road bikes to mountain bikes are just two examples. It was reportedly said, for decades, that the owners did the vehicle model development for Aston Martin. All good fun if you are into that! It seems to me that, economics and design preferences aside, the complete hardtail bikes and separate frames available at the retail level have largely reached maturity. I am not talking about the electric equivalents of the old moped, simply the pedal powered bikes. Thank you again for your reviews. They have helped me to focus on issues critical to my requirements and remember what I like and do not like about my current bike. I definitely need at least front suspension if I am going to return to 20km/h or higher speeds when travelling off-road. Far too exciting in the past! 🙂 I might use Patreon to arrange a full consultation but will probably be good to go with the information and advice imparted in your videos.

[@hardmtnbiker]

I’ve been on 29x2.6 tires for a few years. I have dropped down to 2.3” but I felt beat up more and like I needed to be more precise with my lines or get tossed around more. I think it’s really what works for you on your trails. Mine are really steep, rocky and loose exposed but I see some of yours are just as knar. I have a Sir9 and agree it’s old Geo and not as soft as my CroMo steel frames. I would love to test that steel frame😁 great comparison, I really dig this type of analysis.

[@kukuhwanengkirtyo861]

With differences in their properties between steel and Ti, especially their elasticity, that changes how the frame deflects, perhaps you need to fine tune the rebound damping ? That might ease your hands…. Great video as usual…!!!

[@dl6860]

One thing I'd really like to know - could the benefits of the Ti/Steel frames be enhanced by a different wheelset or other components? If so, how? Actually - could you incorporate this into more reviews? - suggesting components that could bring out the best in frame characteristics and features?

[@hardtailparty]

I do a lot of wheel reviews and i talk about how they change the ride. I haven't found a eherlset that makes a stiff frame feel supple though.

[@thomaskuhn6541]

You've mentioned the Johnny Rotten several times in recent videos, I wonder if they ever got into production on that one. I know they were experiencing some challenges and their website hasn't been updated since early 2021. They're still featuring your video from Outerbike on the their home page.

[@claytonjessup6163]

Thank you so much I may , have to use you on the Pataron , for my next hardtail frame

[@hardtailparty]

Please do, I'd love to help you over there.

[@claytonjessup6163]

@@hardtailparty how much is it and how does it work ?

[@houseofsolomon2440]

I have a Reynolds 853 frame. So comfortable -

[@rycab9473]

Honestly, this channel needs more subs. How tall are you btw Steve?

[@tobytee7883]

He’s 5 foot 6.

[@wpmccray1]

SCIENCE!!! (great review and appreciate the info...keep up the good work)

[@mattkeller580]

Ti all the way! I sold my Gen2 Reynolds for a Gen3 Ti and it's lights out!

[@pauls3616]

Great comparison. I think I would go with the steel version. I enjoy a more supple ride these days. Really appreciate the effort you put into these reviews. Thanks!

[@ppbrown19700808]

Great review Steve, but I missed not seeing your signature wheelie test. In your first video of the steel frame you mentioned hitting the bars with you knees. Where you able to resolve this?

[@ohiomoto]

This is gonna be "so good"! I would love to know how the 4130 version stacks up to the 853 version. Also, in terms of comfort and weight, how does the 853 SolarisMax stack up against the 853 Sherpa? Seems like they might be pretty close on those points while having a different geometry.

[@hardtailparty]

Geo is totally different between the two. Totally different riding position requires.

[@persistentconsistency]

@@hardtailparty Sounds like the Solaris is much less of a "sit-and-spin" style rig and you it requires you to ride it hard. I recall you saying that in your Solaris review. I believe you've helped me decide that the Stanton is more my flavor, as I am in flat Houston, TX and am looking for something for easy trails, bike-packing, and general commuting and leisurely rides with the wife. Thank you for these reviews! They have been invaluable.

[@Allan_Varcoe]

Love this comparison! So cool!

[@richardloh8260]

Thanks for the great video ! At 30.29 min, you mentioned a supple Ti bike ... "RST something" ? Kindly share details of it as I am looking for a forgiving Ti which it seems Stanton Ti is not. Many thanks in advance !

[@hardtailparty]

RSD middle child

[@richardloh8260]

@@hardtailparty Thanks !!

[@stuartbrown9400]

The Ti one from Taiwan... Dr. Seuss potential here. Great content as always!

[@JD-oe5uc]

I was looking for a steel frame to build my first 29er (still riding my 26inch steel Pipedream Scion). This review convinced me to go for the Sherpa, which was already a potential candidate. The frame just arrived in the incredible gorgeous irisescence evergreen. Luckily I was able to already gather most parts, so I can start building now :). I will run it with 130 mm, since I good get a good deal on a 130 mm Pike. It will be my only and do-it-all bike.

[@hardtailparty]

Right on! It's a special bike. Enjoy.

[@George1161]

Congrats! I'm wondering how it feels with a 130mm fork. Let me know what you think 🤙🏼

[@JD-oe5uc]

@@George1161 I will! It is ready now, but it is so rainy and muddy here. Normally not a big problem, but I am a little bit hesitant to immediately ride my new, shiny bike in those wet and muddy conditions....Also I would like to take some pictures first, that do justice to the iridescence evergreen color :)

[@JD-oe5uc]

@@George1161 so far it has been really great! I must admit it is my first 29" bike, so not much comparison material. I especially noticed how much easier everything is with bigger wheels ;). It climbs really great (much better than my 26" bike) and also descends better! The 130 mm seems perfect so far. I have no indications yet that 120 mm would have been better for me.

[@George1161]

@@JD-oe5uc Glad to hear you're enjoying it. Thank you for taking the time to update me, much appreciated!

[@hmillz941]

Do you think you’ll be doing an update video with the gen4 frames?

[@kaedeschulz5422]

That makes me wonder if i should go for Reynolds instead of standard CRMO 4130 for my DIY Hardtail frame hmm...

[@hardtailparty]

Not all reynolds bikes are compliant. It depends on tubing thickness and frame design more than material.

[@kaedeschulz5422]

@@hardtailparty Alright. I expected it to be more of a supple material in general. Alright then. Good to know that i don't have to spend a lot of money instantly for a nice tubeset for my first frame.

[@noelwarner8874]

Another great series! I’d go steel for the compliance.

[@curtvaughan2836]

Love Reynolds steel - have had 531 and 753 frames in the past on road bikes. Miss being able to get nice steel frames in the mass market. Titanium is wonderful, but really expensive.

[@anthonyharris483]

Having ridden both titanium and steel, I'd go with steel because for me it just feels more comfortable. My Kona Hei Hei titanium vs my Kona Explosif with same geometry the steel feels more comfortable and alive. Maybe it's the Columbus Nivacrom Max steel tubing that gives it that feel. I'm definitely Oldschool and love the steel frames of old

[@kennethelliot8164]

On the SID vs stepcast 34 comment, my 2021 SID select 35mm 120 fork has developed significant bushing slop. Started riding it in March and just need it to live through end of race season. SC 34 will be replacing it this winter

[@hardtailparty]

I've heard a few cases of that. Mines been good so far and I'm the second rider on it.

[@kevinmcclelland7695]

Very important to note the new 2022 34 SC has significantly less clearance that the previous version (that Steve is riding). 2022 version maxes out at 29x2.4 and I would be surprised if it fit plus tires at all!

[@hardtailparty]

@@kevinmcclelland7695 this is very true.

[@seangavin4829]

Awesome video. Question about tire width as you brought it up at the beginning. 27.5, is there a detriment going from a 2.6 to 2.4? Btw, I’d go with the steel!

[@paulv8453]

Steve, how come I don't see that nice mint green color in the Reynolds 853 on their website?

[@hardtailparty]

Because it's not a standard color. They offer custom colors for an upcharge. They can do any ral color

[@paulv8453]

@@hardtailparty Very nice 👍 to know! Thank you 🙏

[@stephensealy4904]

Nice job Steve. I am headed to sedona this week and was planning that ride. I have people that need the green/blue ride. What's the best place to park ?

[@hardtailparty]

I'd reach out to thunder mountain bikes for recommended parking and routes. They're good guys.

[@thomaskuhn6541]

There is parking on Long Canyon Rd. right at the start of the Long Canyon trail which I believe is what Steve started on, connecting to Deadmans Pass and then Aerie.

[@hardtailparty]

Holiday weekend are a zoo in Sedona. You'll need to get there super early.

[@stephensealy4904]

Thanks guys. I have been on holidays and yes its a zoo. I just thought th loop Steve rode would be perfect for my group. The BFE MAX will want more but I can branch off a bit on that route.

[@dennismiller1602]

Interesting comparison! Maybe wait and see how the first gen HP bike rides before upgrading from my current ride (:

[@hardtailparty]

Ive got the prototype in for testing right now and I can't wait to share more. It's totally different from the Sherpa.

[@dennismiller1602]

@@hardtailparty Great to hear your on the move with that project (:

[@joshuaweir1264]

Squirrel at 8:18!! Middle of the screen 😀

[@bradleyjohnston3434]

Thanks Steve! How about the voodoo line of bikes, Dambala….?

[@smooothyyy]

Nice Video! Anytime soon Production Privee Shan?

[@hardtailparty]

I've reached out to them many times. No luck. I worry the reach is way too short anyway.

[@earthzero7]

Just wondering-- have you had a chance to ride one of the new Lynsky Live Wire bikes or frames yet and could you compare that to the Ti Sherpa or Spot Rocker? If not there's a suggestion for another frame to try. 🙂

[@hardtailparty]

Not yet. I'm betting it'll ride similar to the SIR 9 based on geo.

[@MountainGuerrilla]

from what I understand welds are harder than the surrounding metal, I'm not sure this applies to titanium and that's a total different animal. Not sure if it contributes the stiffness of a titanium frame but it might.

[@chimps4gimps]

What length cranks have you decided on for this build?

[@hardtailparty]

170mm because it's what i had available. My 155, 160, and 165s were already installed on other bikes.

[@stepupcyclery4136]

On root filled east coast trails would you recommend the steel or ti for xc racing? Thanks!

[@ianfurqueron5850]

For better or worse, my main takeaway is now I want a Spot Rocker... granted, I already have a Chameleon.

[@colintheshots2032]

When did nukeproof release the v3 wheels?

[@hardtailparty]

Dangit, i misspoke and didn't catch it in the edit. Sorry about that. These are V2 wheels. (Paradox V3, Sherpa gen 3, o have a hard to keep all these straight sometimes)

[@falllinemaniac]

I depend on my pinky to hold onto the end of the grip. This is the only role it plays but it's THE PRIMARY anchor to the bars. The middle two basically have a free ride and the index covers the braking duty of course. I doubt I could enjoy rough rides with an unhealed phalange on the pinky. That's tougher than I care to bear.

[@terrybuccambuso7917]

Thinking about Baja Divide. Spot rocker or Carver Ti?

[@hardtailparty]

You'd be a perfect candidate for my bike consultation service over on patreon. I'd be happy to help you over there.

[@martijndekker1134]

Would love to see a review of the pipedream moxie mx3.

[@hardtailparty]

Me too

[@vexis170x]

I really would like to see the Sherpa 853 vs 4130 steel comparison. 4130 has a place in my heart, but you're really selling me on this 853 haha. Have you taken out a surly karate monkey yet? I'd be interested in knowing your thoughts on it. (Edit: built up with a fork for xc riding, not the gravel configuration rigid fork).

[@hardtailparty]

i haven't ridden a karate monkey long enough to share my thoughts on them. Geo looks OLD SCHOOL, but we all know geo charts only tell part of the story.

[@vexis170x]

@@hardtailparty I totally agree. I have a bit of a background in vehicle dynamics and find it odd that people obsess over single bits of geometry without looking at the full stackup of things that affect the characteristic. Given that the riders proportions also factor in, there aren't good definable performance envelope metrics for bikes. But you do the next best thing: how do bikes compare to each other at matched rider under common load cases. Which is why I love your reviews.

[@nriyo3]

Steve how do you store all your extra parts?

[@hardtailparty]

in boxes, on shelves, indoors. :)

[@Albkiller22]

Are you using cable actuated brakes on the Ti one?

[@hardtailparty]

Same exact build between the bikes.

[@Albkiller22]

@@hardtailparty Do you prefer using them over hydraulic disk brakes?

[@derekstangle6521]

How was the cable routing and set up to the rear klamper?

[@hardtailparty]

Easy oeasy

[@jadoningalls1205]

Did you say “MY Spot Rocker”? I know from your glowing review that it would fill a unique niche in any hardtail lovers collection, did you pick one up?

[@hardtailparty]

Yes. After i sent the review bike back i missed it too much and i ordered one for myself. It's a special bike. However, I'm dealing with some warranty issues with the frame at the moment.

[@jadoningalls1205]

@@hardtailparty Awesome! Hope you get things sorted out and can continue to enjoy it. I'm currently hardtail-less...dumped all my bike budget into a glorious Pivot Switchblade. In the meantime, I'm casually shopping for my next hardtail build- keenly awaiting the reveal of the HP build, though something like the sherpa is also on my radar. Gosh I love geeking out over bikes! haha

[@GhettoSuguru]

0:51 wait did you just say nukeproof horizon v3 ? aren't they v2's ?

[@hardtailparty]

Yes, they're v2s. i misspoke.

[@chimps4gimps]

I tried a Stanton Switchback and Slackline (in Ti) and they are fantastic bikes. By comparison I demo’d a Cotic BFe that just felt numb. Just saw the new FS Stanton Ti front end carbon rear at a UK enduro race. Pretty epic creation 🙌🏼

[@hardtailparty]

Agreed, it looks rad. I'd love to try that bike one day.

[@chimps4gimps]

@@hardtailparty with so many fantastic steel bike companies based in the UK I think you owe yourself a visit 😎🤘🏼

[@AlessandroBergomi]

Do you think there is a big difference between their steel UK vs steel Taiwan?

[@hardtailparty]

I doubt it, but you can always email them and chat with the guys at Stanton.

[@ahamilton1305]

Ti option with Zipp 3motos?

[@erikcarter7919]

love the review! Instantly made me go right to the Sherpa site.

[@trailblazeratv6306]

I would go Steel and used the money saved for a nice Carbon wheelset

[@millerman692]

What bar on the steel bike?

[@bobcoburn5238]

The difference in weight you didn't expect in the ti frame was probably from the seat post being 31.6 instead of 30.9.

[@hardtailparty]

Quite possible.

[@ronaldoesguerra8925]

Awesome review! I was kind of hoping you would prefer the steel version, lol. I bought a Cotic Solaris Max based on your review of it so I’m pretty close to pulling the trigger on the Sherpa steel version. I wish you could get your hands on a Moots Womble or Chumba Sendero. I don’t understand why bike companies always send bikes to places who aren’t willing to do a full review and instead do a marketing fluff piece. Anyways, your reviews rock! Keep up the good work!

[@hardtailparty]

I wonder if they're worried about the damage of a negative review? Fluff/press pieces seem to sell bikes well, but I can't stand it when it's disguised as a "review."

[@ronaldoesguerra8925]

I think that’s definitely the issue. Companies send bikes out to places they know will feed into their narrative about how they want a certain bike to be seen, not how the bike actually feels and rides. Your review on the Yeti Arc wasn’t all roses and unicorns but I took what pertained to me on that review and actually recently purchased one because it made sense to me and my trails.

[@hardtailparty]

I'm so glad to hear that it helped you. Even if a bike isn't ideal for my riding, i hope to be able to explain who would benefit from it. I'm not here to make anyone look bad or good, i just want to inform potential shoppers.

[@Perception_]

As I can only afford one, I would pick the steel version as this bike will be primarily a bikepacking rig. I've always wanted a custom color myself, so that might be the best route for me. Glad I came by these reviews because I like the simplicity of that bike and the possibilities within one bike.

[@bradlstefan]

Oh man now I cannot decide between the Ti or Steel one. Initally I was drawn towards the Ti but now I think steel would suit me better

[@eXaviar]

Same here 👍🏾

[@rumbolzpunktde]

thank you!

[@joshusanders3127]

Great il get the 853 one and its cheaper hitting the south downs uk

[@chriss8375]

What wheels running, they carbon or alum?

[@hardtailparty]

Aluminum nukeproof hzn v2.

[@benrj9]

@@hardtailparty I recently upgraded the wheels on my Ribble to the horizons and went from a nx to gx Cassette, it made a huge difference and I love them. It was thanks to your budget wheel comparison. Thanks again for your amazing videos!

[@hardtailparty]

@@benrj9 the horizons are fantastic wheels. Glad you're digging them.

[@MoRad255]

Oh Man, now you have me intrigued with the Switch9er Ti I have ordered and expecting soon. More supple than the steel one you tested a while back? Given your side/side you did with sherpa, you have me wondering. I do like snappy bikes and have a hard time imaging it being stiffer than my current ride (Honzo ST).

[@hardtailparty]

what year is your honzo st?

[@MoRad255]

@@hardtailparty 2017