Trail Bike Showdown: Spur vs Ripley vs Tallboy

[@flyingnorseman]

Dang, a week in the desert on those 3 rigs? What dedication and sacrifice. You really took one for the team.

[@bikersedge]

Someone has to do it. I volunteer as tribute.

[@keirfarnum6811]

@@bikersedge May the odds be ever in your favor.

[@FreeLander5280]

May the force be with you indeed

[@milesdonaldson9829]

Incredible video. I really love how you review the bikes based on how they feel and not on the technical side of it. Keep it up

[@911_dan2]

love this format, your insight is great

[@bikersedge]

I appreciate that!

[@gpa1978]

I had the three as next bike options...but ripley really had what I wanted...I'm very happy with it. It's my xc race bike, trail bike and park bike..I just do ride it with care..I haven't used the enduro. Bike since I have the ripley too Not that they are even close but when you want to ride a lot of time nothing beats a good trail bike

[@GreenTimYoung]

Just got an sb120 for the same reasons as you.

[@brianhanish6307]

I bought the spur for the exact same reason as you mentioned. Up and down can do it all really well. I sat on the tallboy and liked it a lot but seemed to overbuilt for my terrain. The ripley would have been a good choice but the spur I took a chance on and it looks sick in the Seafood green. Little more progressive. That being said, I don't have it in my hands yet. Ordered in September so I figure Feb/March. All good cause I can drool over it and smash trails in the spring. Thanks for the first class content. This is by far my favourite channel for MTB. amazing work.

[@phillipconnolly5020]

I am picking my Spur up tomorrow they go fast but there's lost to choose from in Southern California.

[@corvettec5dave]

@@phillipconnolly5020 , so far how do you like the bike?

[@phillipconnolly5020]

@@corvettec5dave I love it. Have not been riding as much as I should be, but it's the perfect balance of different riding types in a single package. Perfect for my riding style.

[@JJMilk]

Love this category of bike. Your videos make life simpler in terms of deciding on one of these bikes. 👍🏼 Super helpful!!

[@bikersedge]

Glad you like them!

[@hro52518]

Cant wait for my Tallboy to come in! Excellent review as always

[@bikersedge]

You'll love it. I wish I had one on the way.

[@em1355]

@@bikersedge I went Tallboy based on your review and you are right, it is fast and stable going downhill.

[@erinb4919]

I have a 2020 Tallboy... Super fun bike, awesome going downhill, fun to jump and good climber.

[@travelthenarrowtrail8660]

You did a fantastic job on this one, as always. I remember when you all started your channel, I knew it was going to take off quickly. You always explore all the detail very well, which informs those that can't demo these. I agree with so much of what you said. Appreciate your content and how I can tell you are creating ways to make it even better. Thank you.

[@bikersedge]

Thanks for the support and encouragement!

[@TheArsenalGoonship]

Love your channel. Some of the best reviews on the interwebs. Great content!

[@bikersedge]

Wow. Thanks!

[@michaelschad6477]

I ride a HT & still love this channel. Your edits & quality are top notch! Keep it up!

[@bikersedge]

Much appreciated!

[@jimm244]

I’m a fan of the lower link VPP. I agree it’s not as efficient on the climbs, but the decrease in efficiency is countered by uphill traction. It might not be quite as fast on the way up, but personally I don’t find it any less enjoyable. On the way down, man does it hold a line! Depending on the bike, it can be planted and poppy at the same time. Your downhill on the TB looked faster, smoother, and more enjoyable. The POV footage really backed up your conclusions on all three bikes. 👍

[@bikersedge]

It seems like Santa Cruz might be trying to find a happy medium between the feel of their older bikes and the first gen lower link VPP. The newest stuff feels a bit more lively and climbs a bit better. I'm pretty stoked to see it.

[@timcostello4408]

It is great to watch a bike review where there is no sitting on the fence for fear of upsetting manufacturers. That Santa Cruz descends as quietly as a rolls Royce ghost . If I am ever in the US again I will be sure to pop in the shop and say hi

[@bikersedge]

Glad you liked it. The whole point of these videos is to help people find the right bike. Being honest about them seems like the best way to do that. Each of these bikes is incredible in its own way.

[@juliangarcia-wj7gf]

I seen other reviews comparing short travel mountain bikes... I have to admit that yours was one of the best...thanks..🤘🤘🤘

[@bikersedge]

So stoked to hear that! Really glad you liked it.

[@NDemanuele1]

I'm an Ibis fanboy! I rode a V1 Ripley for about 5 years and put it on a pedestal! Not even newer bikes were as efficient. I would demo from time to time. This year, I got a V1 Ripmo and am very happy with it. At speed, it feels like a Ripley and it's very efficient up and down. The bonus is the stability. Very balanced bike.

[@blissandtheburning]

Best bike channel on youtube.

[@bikersedge]

Wow! Thanks for the kind words.

[@TwowheeledadventureVT]

Thanks for doing this review! These are the exact bikes on my radar 😁

[@bikersedge]

I read your mind and that's why I made it!

[@nunyabiznes32]

Great video, as usual. Might want to mention the weight difference. Transition Spur: approx. 26 lbs., Ibis Ripley: approx. 29 lbs., and Santa Cruz Tallboy: approx. 31 lbs.

[@titiand]

My Tallboy rides nice at 28.5 with pedals. It is spec’d really well though.

[@TyroilSmoochieWallace]

SICK video. Very well done. Thanks man. (my Ripley arrives this week after waiting over 8 months...😁)

[@bikersedge]

Thanks for the kind words! Kudos for being patient. It will be worth the wait.

[@mtbeliever5833]

2:28. That’s your 130LR hiding behind your truck. You brought it with you because you knew it would be more fun than all three.

[@bikersedge]

It’s a top secret bike actually. Stay tuned.

[@4drcanyonracer]

Great comparison. You can literally see how much smoother the TB is by your increased speed and smoother video while on it. I'm really looking forward to a Hightower 2 vs Ripmo V2 comparison. I demo'd the HT2 and Ripmo 1 and ended up buying a Ripmo AF since the frame was only 0.85 lbs heavier than the carbon HT2. The AF if built with lighter parts (mine is GX), can weigh very close to the HT2 (even in carbon) and climb about on par but descend better than the Ripmo V1. If the Ripmo V2 was around then, I would have went that way. A Ripmo V2 isn't a direct competitor to the TB but it probably climbs about the same, if built up fairly light and descends better, especially with a coil shock. Now, throw a TB with a Cascade Link and a Pike at 130 and what would you get? Something that still climbs like a Ripmo and descends like a mini HT2? The Santa Cruz bikes just ride so solid, kinda has me wondering if that's a perfect compromise setup for some people.

[@Rincon009]

the best regular review I've seen for these bikes!! Kudos!

[@bikersedge]

Stoked you like it! Thanks for the kind words.

[@Memeteam903]

I’m starting to think my Izzo is a long travel spur. No real regrets on my Izzo. I really wanted that ripley but bike apocalypse forced my hand. Another great review!

[@Roaming50]

Great to hear as I have an Izzo LE on order. I’m replacing a 2012 Tallboy LTc. I was comparing against these bikes and others but ultimately Izzo won out. Also availability. Most other bikes had excessively long lead times...

[@Memeteam903]

@@Roaming50 I called every Ibis dealer in NC. Not one XL Ripley or Mojo in the entire state and the wait time was over 8 months.... The Izzo is a very good bike with good value. Sadly there is very few reviews of it.

[@Roaming50]

@@Memeteam903 I’ll admit it was kind of scary spending $6k on a bike without riding it. But the Spur was $500 non refundable deposit for a bike with availability of May and also no demo ride. I’ll review the Izzo when I get it. Hopefully in February.

[@Memeteam903]

@@Roaming50 I mean I could review mine but I haven’t ridden the other bikes so I have nothing to compare it too...

[@Memeteam903]

I will say there is zero reason for a lockout on the Izzo!

[@rolux4853]

Did anybody else notice that the Tallboy was extremely quiet compared to the other bikes? There was so much less rattling on the Santa Cruz! It’s a shame that the brakes where a little bit squealy. But maybe with other pads or a bit of sanding they get totally quiet too.

[@silentmonk1189]

After watching and listening to the three, I would throw the Spur in the trash and get one of the other two. The noise from that machine screams low build quality.

[@bike_somm]

Just here to applaud the video making & attention to detail! Always solid input & story telling 👏🏼😎

[@bikersedge]

Much appreciated! Love your videos too.

[@bike_somm]

@@bikersedge That’s Awesome to hear, thanks a bunch !! 🙌🏻🚲😄

[@marvinlee4887]

Very glad to come across this comparison/review and thank for doing it. Spur and Ripley are on my short list for a 2021 addition and this video really helps with making my decision.

[@bikersedge]

So stoked you found it! Let us know if we can help you decide.

[@mmann1897]

Excellent review, thanks! Would love to where the Epic Evo stacks among that group. No doubt the most exciting category this year.

[@bikersedge]

So many cool new bikes in the category this year. We don't carry Specialized so I wont be able to get my hands on one for a review.

[@neehooya]

@@bikersedge Ah bummer, I was going to ask the same Q, I wanted to see how the TB stacks against the Evo. Anyway, thank you for your insightful review.

[@Micarmn]

This is my all time favorite bike review and head to head to head matchup hands down. Really good content here. Great job

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks for the kind words. Really appreciate it!

[@Micarmn]

@@bikersedge are the grades the same after 5 months?

[@bikersedge]

Yes. I had ridden all of these bikes quite a bit before filming this video. I'm pretty familiar with all of them. Grades hold true.

[@tyarnold4088]

I own the Ripley and love it. But the Transition Spur and Santa Cruz Tallboy are both just as good.

[@bikersedge]

It’s so hard to choose between all three.

[@themtchannel2110]

Really enjoy your reviews! It is outstanding landscape :)

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks!

[@REB4444]

Two years since this video & my riding more short-travel bikes, I've finally figured out what I like in a short-travel/downcountry bike. If riding with my bigger group on weekly rides, I do value climbing since I'm older & want to suffer less keeping up, something like the Ripley works. But if riding by myself or with buddies cruising & bombing down at our own pace, the more capable, comfortable, fun bike would be the Tallboy because of that Santa Cruz plushness. The Spur's lighter but feels too long & slack than it needs to be for a short-travel bike, so it's not as agile. So I did the next best thing and bought a Pivot Trail 429 that climbs like the Ripley, goes downhill like the Spur but is more agile in flowy, tighter trails. No, it does not have quite the plushness of the Tallboy but more than the Spur.

[@flow2tech]

@REB4 I"m honeslty looking at the 2023 Rocky Mountain element for my do it all short travel rig. Thinking of selling my sb130 to do it.. Older i get the more i like to climb but still be able to shred the downs. As good as the sb130 is at climbing it is heavy and noticeable on longer rides.. Becomes cumbersome lugging that thing around..

[@TomCollins-c4h]

saw a 429 at the bike shop and would have to say that was the most awesome looking bike I've ever.

[@georgeharoutunian2145]

Love my Ripley. It climbs like a beast and can handle any descent I throw at it

[@REBooner30]

I place a premium on climbing and ordered the Ripley in XT build which includes upgraded factory Fox susp. It should arrive in the next couple weeks. Looks like you had the XT build on the Tallboy which includes a nice upgrade to the Pike. Thanks for the nice comparison of the three.

[@bikersedge]

You're going to love the Ripley if you like climbing. I had the X01 Tallboy. It's a very nice build. Couldn't ask for better.

[@MrFahrenheit99]

Great video quality and color grading. Seriously, A+. The bikes are cool too, I guess.

[@bikersedge]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@mwab65]

Another excellent review. Location and weather look sick compared to to the cold, wet and windy weather here in the north of England.

[@bikersedge]

The weather was very nice. Can’t complain.

[@mrvwbug4423]

That slightly leaned forward seating position of the Ripley sounds exactly the same as the Ripmo, and it's great for climbing, especially tech climbs. For being a 35lb bruiser I am actually very impressed with how well my Ripmo climbs.

[@bikersedge]

It fits very similar to the Ripmo.

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

I just got one ,super impressed !

[@geopietro]

Really nice review: informative, nuanced, helpful. Thank you!

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks. I appreciate it.

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Great comparison. Really surprised the Spur didn't make the top honor. Thank you for the great detail!

[@bikersedge]

I'm a little surprised too - I own one so I was cheering for it. It really is the most well rounded of the three, though.

[@patrickwilliamson673]

Excellent review , I very much enjoy the format of your reviews.

[@bikersedge]

Thank you!

[@jymtb]

This is what the people wanted! Thanks! Any chance you had time on the Revel Ranger? How would it have compared to these three?

[@bikersedge]

Thanks! I haven't been able to ride on of those yet. We don't have them in our demo fleet.

[@koreanmtnbiker2931]

Just proves there is no a magic bike in our magical diverse environment we live here on earth. Each has strength and compromise.

[@alkamite]

Another great video, guys. This is the best assessment of the tallboy I've seen. I've had one since June and totally agree. It's more of a short travel enduro bike than aggressive cross-country bike. It makes you think you're a much better rider than you are. But, if the spur had been released a week earlier I would gotten one of those instead.

[@bikersedge]

Thanks for the feedback. It's so hard to decide between all of these bikes. I don't think you made a bad choice going with the Tallboy though.

[@ChopperChad]

That new slacker head angle on the Ripley AF may put it at the top on descents as well. Hopefully the carbon version hits soon. I’m in shopping mode for my next bike.

[@bikersedge]

It gets it close. I still think I’d take a Tallboy for the really rough descents. Haven’t ridden them back to back though.

[@sunkim8310]

Your review confirmed my suspicions...I want the Ripley going up and the Tallboy going down. I still can't decide!

[@bikersedge]

Split the difference and get the Spur!

[@Crayonz014]

Had my Ripley for a few months now and absolutely love it. The rider could use some upgrading though haha

[@bikersedge]

Couldn't we all use a little upgrading?

[@cliffsangelsphotography]

I've got the Ripmo, but I've been craving a lightweight short travel trail ripper. Definitely might build a Ripley soon

[@bikersedge]

You should!

[@cliffsangelsphotography]

@@bikersedge can you review the Trek Supercaliber? I always liked your reviews a lot more than Pinkbike

[@bikersedge]

@@cliffsangelsphotography Thanks for the kind words. We don't carry trek at the shop so I won't be able to get my hands on one to do a video, unfortunately.

[@BlackPenquinn]

I have a beautiful V1 Ripmo (custom build) and I just got a new Exie and it is the perfect compliment to the Ripmo. The Ripley (depending on how you build the two bikes up) might not be “different” enough. The Exie will be and that bike is a blast on flowing trails, and especially fun on tight trails with lots of tight corners. Spools up to speed quickly. Great bikes

[@greenskeeper1840]

I love to nail those technical climbs and am by no means a speedster on the descents. So I guess it's the Ripley for me.

[@bikersedge]

Good call.

[@micahknope2093]

Most important question.... where can I get that hooded jacket? love it!

[@bikersedge]

It's a brand called Freedom Industries. But, nothing is more important than cool bikes. Duh.

[@kentvantrall7185]

Cool and nice review thanks very much . The ripely is a very nice bike , I discover a nice bike. Can you make a video about the Hightower 2021 please?

[@bikersedge]

We are currently working on an all-mountain showdown similar to this. The Hightower will be included.

[@jaredgulaga8367]

Nice review! I really like how you do on-ride reviews rather than talking about the bike back in a Garage, House, Bar ETC. Cough cough Bike Mag. I'd like to see how the Yeti SB115 Fits in the mix.

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks! The SB115 is closer to traditional XC or XC marathon bikes.

[@curtcarlson7659]

Great review and well done

[@rjahn3000]

Excellent review, I would lean towards the Tallboy for my climbing style!

[@bikersedge]

Thanks for the kind words! They're all my favorite, but the Tallboy is a little more favorite on the DH.

[@Rincon009]

I think I've watched this comparison like 5 times over the last 2 months

[@bikersedge]

Stoked you like it. Sounds like it’s time to get you on one of these bikes!

[@LastAphelion]

Are you still watching or did you pick one lol?

[@johnglynn7795]

Enjoyed the video. Love MTB'n St George. Do you have any reviews on the Niner Rip 9? Blue skies, Jg

[@DanielGrows]

Awesome channel. I just bought the new Canyon Neuron CF 8. Couldn’t pass up the bang for you buck factor on that bike. Full XT drive train, Fox sus and carbon wheels for 5k. Not progressive geo but short fun wheelbase. Would love to see you review it.

[@bikersedge]

With canyon being a direct to consumer brand we don’t have access at our shop. We won’t be able to get one for review unfortunately.

[@tonybasoni8443]

Great job. Thanks for putting this together, it is exactly the kind of thing that helps to get perspective and make an informed decision when we cant all test ride all the Bikes we are interested in ourselves. One thing maybe to consider adding in would be the availability of each one. Like if someone was torn between two, one might be able to be bought more readily than the other helping to make their decision easier. Or to consider if waiting 3 or 4 extra months for the one they prefer is worth the wait. Thanks again. Oh, what trail was that? Where exactly in St. George?

[@bikersedge]

Thanks for the feedback and kind words! It's tough putting availability up in these videos as it changes all the time. These videos are meant to live in the internet for a long time. We do a pretty good job of announcing availability on our social channels though. Follow along there if you want to stay up to date. I filmed all these bikes on Paradise Rim in St. George.

[@tonybasoni8443]

@@bikersedge ,......I understand. Unfortunately, I only do youtube. Thanks again, and keep them coming! Will be looking forward to the next one. Oh,.....Hear anything about that new Revel?

[@bikersedge]

The Ranger? I haven't had a chance to ride one yet.

[@tonybasoni8443]

@@bikersedge ,.....No, there is supposed to be a new longer travel 29er coming soon. I talked to some guys when I was in St. George about a month ago that said they have seen it being tested. Of course they could have been mistaken, but I don't think so as I have heard about it from others as well.

[@bikersedge]

We haven't heard anything about it from the source. Although, I've heard the same thing running through the rumor mill for the last year or so.

[@glibsonoran]

I will say that I've noticed a difference of opinion on two of these bikes - Tallboy and Ripley - that tends to break down by rider size/weight. Smaller lighter riders (under 150/155lb) on smaller frame sizes tend to absolutely love the Ripley and feel it works well in most all circumstances. They love the climbing and feel the suspension doesn't give up much to the tallboy on the downhill, some feel the tallboy is overly stiff especially with carbon wheels. Heavier riders (over 175/180lb), on larger frames, tend to prefer the tallboy. They feel that the Ripley is too harsh on chatter, bottoms on bigger bumps and the frame feels flexy on the rough stuff. In between feelings tend to be mixed. Obviously I don't have a huge sample, but it seems to fall this way for people I know that have ridden both.

[@bikersedge]

You could be on to something there. In addition to the frame stiffness, the TB is slacker and has a more active and forgiving rear suspension platform. I'd suspect its a combo of all of the above that makes it descend better.

[@motoboy6666]

The Tallboy seem to swallow the terrain in a different way, more in a big bike way. Looks great, so does the view, wow mother nature

[@bikersedge]

It definitely smoothed out the trail the best.

[@tom56340]

Awesome review as always. Any chance of getting a comperison to the rocky mountaine element? The short travel catagory is on fire!

[@bikersedge]

I’m still trying to get my hands on one of those. I’ve only ridden it briefly.

[@pedalpoonces]

@@bikersedge I just demo'd the RM Element C70 here in Las Vegas on a RM demo tour. And I own a Tallboy CC. I did a comparison vid on my channel. But would love to get your thoughts on it vs these 3 other DC bikes!

[@johnglynn7795]

Appreciate the conclusion to your video. A great overall on the 3 bikes. I ride in Phoenix, Tucson and St George. Your thoughts on a Ibis Ripley, Ripmo and the bike I am leaning toward is a Niner Rip 9 due to its CVA suspension. Your opinion is greatly appreciated. Jg

[@bikersedge]

Hi John thanks for the kind words. I haven’t ridden the Niner. Can’t really say much about it.

[@chrissmith8868]

This trail looks like a blast. I’ve got a Ripley on order from you guys scheduled to arrive in May. What is the name of this trail? I’d like to ride it. Great video. Love the comparisons.

[@bikersedge]

It’s a really fun one. It’s called Paradise Rim. Thanks for supporting the shop!

[@insidemattsmind5999]

Great review! I love the no nonsense language without pandering to the manufacturer’s. If the Ripley is an “A” climbing, what would you give the Ripmo V2? Thank you!

[@bikersedge]

With the Assegai tires I’d give it a B. Put some faster/more appropriate tires on it and it would be a B+.

[@insidemattsmind5999]

Excellent! I’m planning on a DHR 2.6 upfront and a Rekon 2.4(dry conditions) in back. I just want a bike that climbs more efficiently then my 2019 Stumpjumper alloy. Thank you!

[@bikersedge]

That will be a great combo for it. It will be an excellent climber for you.

[@smithgov]

What a great video production and super useful review. Really an A for your effort. I have narrowed it down to the Spur or Ripley. Just subscribed! Thanks a million. (By the way, where is this amazing trail. I am heading to AZ in April and hoping it is there) :-)

[@bikersedge]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for the feedback!

[@mountainbikingfortherestofus]

Your quite welcome. Where is this ride? Cheers, Robert

[@bikersedge]

Paradise Rim in St. George.

[@MileHighEric303]

I currently have a Pivot Switchblade and looking to add a shorter travel 29er to the stable. I've already had the Ibis Ripley and it climbed like a beast, but wasn't confidence inspiring on the descent. The two bikes on my radar are the new Tallboy and Rocky Mountain Element. Briefly, what are your thoughts on the two bikes head to head?

[@bikersedge]

Haven't ridden an Element yet. Can't say.

[@pedalpoonces]

I own a 2020 Tallboy CC (with custom rootbeer 36 fox float factory 140mm fork upgrade). I demo'd the RM Element recently in Las Vegas. The Tallboy cleaned the clock of the Element on the dh. Uphill and easy rolling stuff, they were pretty close but the Element was a little more efficient. But, that could be mostly based on the 3 pound lighter element.

[@bastienvlln9704]

what a great and good work, thank for that !

[@bikersedge]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@XCRiders]

I’d like to ride there 👍🏼 but I wouldn’t want to ride there all the time I really enjoy our honest to God dirt here in the Midwest

[@pjsanab]

I’ll take a Ripmo V1 or a Yeti SB130, because they both climb faster than the Tallboy and descend much better. This is from real life experience. Revel Rascal, Pivot Switchblade are great options. Canfield Tilt will be released on April. The CBF feels very similar to a DW-Link on climbing but more capable on the downhills. So most likely this will be the down country/trail bike of the year when it comes out.

[@bikersedge]

That SB130 is pretty impressive. The Ripmo has always been an excellent climber. Especially the V1.

[@vonrunner]

Great review! It's funny that if you took the longer travel 29er's from these companies (Ripmo, Sentinel, and Megatower), I suspect the results would be the same with respect to each brand and their rankings.

[@bikersedge]

You're probably right. We are currently working on that exact showdown, except we are using a Hightower instead of a Megatower.

[@vonrunner]

@@bikersedge Awesome, looking forward to it and to hearing your thoughts on the new Sentinel. Cheers!

[@dav31078]

Great review. The new Tallboy is really puzzling to me. Why not just get the bigger travel bike instead?

[@bikersedge]

It's all about how it descends. It's far more agile, nimble and playful than the Hightower.

[@alexhawkins7133]

Clearly faster too based on your comparison video.

[@TheNationalTrails]

vs the 2020 Specialized EVO carbon ST? Add a ST Link w/ a 190x42.5mm shock for 120mm rear travel. Combine with 150mm RS Pike fork w/ DeBonair C1 airspring ( 150 fork preserves BB height ). 64.5-degree HTA and 76.5-degree STA when riding with a 2.6" rear tire and riding in "High Position." ** The not-so-good...165mm crankset could maybe go to 170mm? Its a low bottom-bracket height, even in the High position. ** Rides way better than it should! Specialized has built an incredibly light Fact 11 frame. The FSR suspension acts more consistent w/ the short-travel link: doesn't sit too deep into its travel like it does with the standard 210x50mm shock. It simply rides like a "set-it and forget-it" trail bike. Note that the lighter the wheels... the better the ride quality. Its a BIG bike with a long, long wheelbase. Lightweight wheels and 2.6" tires give you back a lot energy and add extra trail confidence. The carbon EVO S3 ST weighs a little under 27-pounds with XO1 drivetrain, 1650-gram wheels, 29x2.6" Rekon tires, 150mm RS Pike, 190x42.5 shock, and a 180mm OneUp dropper post. ;-) All that said, I'd choose the Ripley in this test. Just love the low-weight and climbing ability!

[@adventureslab813]

What A nice place to ride ! Thanks !!

[@garydecker3281]

I wonder if you put a larger volume reducer in the Ripley would help with the bottoming and the tech DH feel you were talking about. My Fuel EX felt similar to the description you were giving and really came alive with the larger reducer. Also helped it to pop off jumps.

[@bikersedge]

It certainly could help. It wouldn’t make it descend just like the TB but it would help with the bottom out.

[@gunarstreikals2099]

Thank you for review )

[@tubemaster1205]

Always nice reviews ,Biker's Edge. A interesting comparison will be YT IZZO and TRANSITION SPUR ,if is possible. Keep up . Thank you.

[@Roaming50]

I doubt they would do that as they’re a bike shop so won’t have access to a direct to consumer brand like the YT Izzo.

[@tubemaster1205]

@@Roaming50 who knows ,maybe we will be surprised.Hope so. I really like that IZZO also is a bit cheaper then SPUR.I'm looking as a alternative to my hardtail but don't want hardcore 150 travel bike since i live in flat town.

[@Roaming50]

@@tubemaster1205 I have the Izzo Launch Edition on order but won’t get it until around February hopefully. I’ll review it on my channel when I get it.

[@tubemaster1205]

@@Roaming50 thank's man. Can wait for it. Just subscribed to your channel.

[@bikersedge]

Roaming 50 is right. We don't have access to YT so I wont be able to make a video.

[@CarlosAntunesMTB]

Excellent video as usual. I wonder if you guys could help a a bit. I'm buying my first EMTB this year BUT I'm very undecided between Levo SL v.s. Orbea Rise. I have already ridden a Levo SL and I felt the bike was good but lacks in motor power by having only 35 NM's, I know the Rise is more powerful than the Levo but does it feel like having almost double power compared to the LevoSL?

[@bikersedge]

I haven’t ridden the Levo SL. I’ve ridden plenty of full power 80nm e bikes though. I don’t miss the extra 20nm when I’m riding the rise. It has enough power for any climb I’ve found. I feel the benefits outweigh the reduction in power.

[@radigan209]

Great review and comparison! Which trails were you doing the laps on in St. George? Nice mix of up and down especially 3 times!

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks! I did all the filming on Paradise Rim.

[@bassnlv8447]

You guys have the best reviews, great job! What trail is this?

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks. Glad you like them. This is Paradise Rim in St George, Utah.

[@bassnlv8447]

@@bikersedge sweet, right by snake hollow. Sounds like a day trip with the buddies. Thanks

[@pierrecarriere6845]

Thanks a lot for all the good work you put into this channel ! Would you rather get an alloy or carbon Tallboy ? I'm pondering the value of a carbon frame if you're not much into the weight stuff... Greetings from France

[@bikersedge]

I haven’t ridden an alloy Tallboy. I’ve come to find that weight is blown out of proportion in the mtb world. The alloy one probably rides great!

[@pierrecarriere6845]

@@bikersedge Thanks ! I share the same point of view. I guess I would be better served by spending the extra money on a good set of wheels if I want the bike to feel snappier ?

[@bikersedge]

I go back and forth on that. If you want a snappy feeling bike, a carbon frame will do the trick. To be honest I've never ridden an alloy frame with carbon wheels. It's something I should try.

[@pierrecarriere6845]

@@bikersedge In any case, I guess that sturdier wheels than stock wheels found on most bikes would take any alloy bike in to that direction

[@bikersedge]

Agreed. It could only help. I wonder what makes a bigger difference though. Carbon frame or carbon wheels. Sounds like a new video is in the works.

[@tr1ckster726]

Solid review. Subbed.

[@bikersedge]

Thanks! Glad you liked it.

[@carlosmcintyre3639]

Great video with useful comparisons. Have you spent any time on the Revel Ranger to be able to compare it to these bikes?

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks! I haven't been able to ride on of those yet. We don't have them in our demo fleet.

[@carlosmcintyre3639]

@@bikersedge Thanks for the reply. I’d love to watch a video if you ever get to demo one.

[@keirfarnum6811]

It would be nice to have weights on these as well; even if it’s just for the build you’re riding. And specs on other sizes somewhere in the description would be nice too. Thanks.

[@bikersedge]

Google is the best way to find specs. I should have included bike weights but I have a personal vendetta against weight weeniesm that I’m trying to overcome.

[@phreadi]

Spur X01 medium: 25.2 pounds Tallboy: i'm guessing 30.5-31 pounds Ripley: 27.5-28.5 pounds roughly

[@garzzagear4719]

Great review and comparison! Would you put the revel rascal in this category? If so how would you rank that bike in comparison to these climbing and descending?

[@bikersedge]

I’d put the Rascal with the Occam and Trance X. The Ranger is closer to these bikes but that’s one I haven’t ridden yet.

[@scottkouns8578]

Can you add the Pivot Trail 429 to your next list of short travel comparisons. DW link

[@bikersedge]

We don’t carry Pivot at the shop. It’s not one I’ll be able to get my hands on for a video.

[@BikeAndThings]

I'm afraid to do this to yah but if you have ridden the kona hei hei at all can compare the uphill and downhill of that to the tall boy? The bikes i'm considering are the kona hei hei, santa cruz tall boy, and the santa cruz blur. Great video!

[@bikersedge]

Thanks for the kind words! Unfortunately, we don't carry Kona at the shop. I haven't ridden one.

[@danbraden4401]

So the new Rocky Mtn Element just came out have you ridden that? Also the Pivot 429 is out and I demoed that in Fruita and it was pretty awesome.....

[@bikersedge]

Haven’t had a chance to ride the element yet. As soon as we get one I’ll be making a video. We don’t carry pivot so we all know it’s an inferior bike 😉

[@patrickwright8352]

Little late go the game,leaning towards the ripley but love fast descent.what your feelings on if you increased the fork to 140 mm ?

[@bikersedge]

I still don’t think it would match the TB and Spur in descending ability. If that’s what you’re after though then go for it.

[@lazylearner967]

As Always I love your Vids! I think the real (and only) questions is: Which of these three steeds can one actually purchase? Would you say the Spur would climb as well as the Ripley at Snowbasin or North Fork Park because you don't really need the DW Link due to little to no chunk or ledges.

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks! It might be tricky to buy any at the moment. Although, we have a decent selection of bikes on the floor right now. The Ripley and Spur get closer on the climbs as trails get smoother. The Ripley is still probably just a tiny bit more efficient, but the Spur is a little lighter. I'd say it's sixes.

[@rogerb3927]

Excellent as always. Any chance you’d share the Strava links for these rides?

[@bikersedge]

I'm not a Strava guy, but this trail is Paradise Rim in St. George Utah.

[@rogerb3927]

@@bikersedge thanks!

[@paulway451]

Have ridden the TB and Ripley both in large. Found the TB a little short for me (6ft with long arms). Found the Ripley conquers everything and just wants to go go go. Be keen on your thoughts if you would Chang the comments on Ripley descending but running a 140 mm fork. I’m waiting on a Ripley frame and looking at a 140mm fork. We all like to race downhill right?

[@bikersedge]

I haven’t tried it with a 140mm fork. It would make the bike slacker and longer which would help a bit, but I think it comes down to rear suspension design more than anything here.

[@terrymtbnurse4760]

Hey man, great review. I'm taking a job as a travel nurse where I'll be traveling all over the US. I currently own a Surly Karate Monkey, steel hardtail. Not the bike I want to travel with. Could you recommend a bike that would handle a large variety of trails I'll be coming across? I'm 53 y/o and a very good rider. I'm not looking to do big jumps or huge drops. The steel hardtail does wear me out on the climbs and I lose speed on the straight a ways and my knees could use some relief. I love love to hear your thoughts.

[@bikersedge]

I could hands down recommend any of of these three. I’d also look at our all mountain showdown if you’re wanting something a little burlier than these three.

[@terrymtbnurse4760]

@@bikersedge Thanks for the reply, I will. It will probably come down to availability. Makes me feel at ease with your recommendation of any one of these would fit the bill. Hope I can find one. Thanks again. BTW, your review was awesome.

[@montechie]

Great way to review! What max tire size with something like a DHF or Assegai do you think the Spur or Tallboy could fit? The Ripley can take a 2.5. Tire volume can really do wonders for techy climbs and descents.

[@bikersedge]

The Ripley I rode had the 2.6 Schwalbe. I actually prefer a narrower 2.3” tire though. I would have to look at spacing but I don’t think 2.5 would be an issue on the TB. It’s probably getting close on the Spur though.

[@stankiah]

What camera are you using? The footage quality is incredible!

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks. It’s a GoPro hero 7 with the Karma gimbal.

[@aquashare3817]

Hey man Great review... What trail in St George is that?

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks! It’s Barrel Roll. Not to be confused with Barrel.

[@peraxelson8868]

Have you tried running the tallboy with the chainstays in the long setting? If so, how would it compare with the other three? And thanks for the excellent video!

[@bikersedge]

It would only get more stable. I’ve ridden it in both and I prefer the shorter setting.

[@MrPiowpiow]

Would love to hear your thoughts on nukeproof 290! Maybe even the ST version

[@bikersedge]

Unfortunately we don’t have access to Nukeproof at the shop. I won’t be able to do a video.

[@Dy1pickel]

I love my Tallboy 4. Have you had the chance to try it with a 140 fork or more expensive rear shock ? Would you recommend any certain upgrades? I had my eye on potentially on piggyback shock.

[@bikersedge]

Personally I wouldn’t go 140mm. It’s slack enough as is. I don’t think a piggyback is necessary unless you’re hitting bike park laps on the bike. And then it wouldn’t be the best bike for that anyway. Personally don’t think any upgrades are necessary

[@travelthenarrowtrail8660]

I agree with Conner's assessment on this one. The Tallboy is pretty dialed at the geo it's at and the suspension is really dialed. Not sure if cascade components is making a rear link for it. But a 140 shock would take it to a pretty slack area that will cause the front to wonder. Santa Cruz has it dialed out of the box.

[@jonanderson1777]

I have my tallboy set up with a fox 36 at 140mm and I just got the cascade components rear link to bump travel to 128mm with more progression. Overall thoughts are it's not to slack if you run a touch more sag on the fork. If your a heavy rider like myself at 230lbs of want to jump the tallboy in chunk the 36 will track better with the 36. I demod the tallboy with a fox 34 and I felt the rear outperformed the front. 36 up front with cascades makes it into a better norco optic in my opinion.

[@evantansimore7634]

in my opinion, the spur is the best looking by far

[@bikersedge]

I can’t argue there. It looks so good.

[@colemitchmtb]

I wish the izzo could’ve been thrown into this comparison as well, seems like it fits in well with this group of bikes

[@bikersedge]

Unfortunately being direct to consumer we don't have access to YT. I won't be able throw that one in the mix.

[@colemitchmtb]

@@bikersedge that makes sense, just wish I could see how it stacks up with these bikes as it was the one I ended up choosing when looking at all these bikes. Awesome video though!

[@bikersedge]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@craighata4350]

Great review, would a 140mm pike on front of the Ripley improve your downhill assessment or is it just overall geo

[@bikersedge]

I think it would certainly help. It would make the bike a little slacker and longer. The stiffness would be good too. Don’t know if it would be a night and day difference though.

[@smeekteek]

You mentioned that Spur was less responsive on direction changes than the Ripley. I imagine then that the Spur is not a good choice for a first FS bike for a rider who rides mostly "old" geo HTs with shorter WBs and steeper headtubes?

[@bikersedge]

As long as you’re open to change it’s not a bad bike. Just know it will be very different than an old bike. That said, any modern bike will be.