Wolf in Sheep's Clothing | 2021 Meta TR 29 Review

[@BigRichOSM]

I, FINALLY, got my Meta TR on Saturday 2/6. It was ordered on 8/17. It's awesome. Now if the trails would dry out, I’d be set. Now that I have my bike...I can stop watching your review, twice a day, to make myself feel better. 😂

[@StraightLine_MTB]

That is amazing news. Excited for you to get out and ride that thing when you can. In the mean time feel free to binge watch our videos lol

[@LittleTicoy]

That 64 Impala on the side tho! 👍🏽

[@StraightLine_MTB]

That's my main whip 😆

[@LittleTicoy]

@@StraightLine_MTB Much Respect! Reppin the 530/916!

[@anthonytiburcio9260]

Super sport? 👀😍

[@StraightLine_MTB]

@@anthonytiburcio9260 yes sir SS ....si sweet 😆

[@rydernikolas8860]

I dont mean to be so offtopic but does someone know a way to log back into an Instagram account?? I stupidly lost the account password. I love any tricks you can offer me.

[@francescodaniotti4238]

I really like this concept of “mini enduro” bike. I live between hills with no more than 300 mt of elevation, with plenty of “up n down” trails but also proper dh lines (even if shorter than what’s normally in a bike park) and the terrain is always rocky, so I guess this could be the definitive bike for me. Now riding an old school 2006 specy sx trail (for uphills and easy trail exploring too) so the weight won’t be an issue lol

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Yeah, sounds like this bike would serve you well. It's a blast on the descent....and looks great also

[@BigRichOSM]

Thanks for the review. I ordered this bike in August. Arrival got pushed back from November to December and now ”end of January”. 😏 All I can do is watch videos about it and wait. Thanks!

[@StraightLine_MTB]

That's crazy. Hope you get yours soon. Once you do you're going to love it. Let us know what you think of it when it arrives.

[@matthewdefer8215]

Just ordered a meta 29 tr race and I’m so stoked to go smash this thing thru the desert!!

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Sweet. Feels like it has more suspension than 140mm.....and it's such a good looking bike. Congrats Mathew and thank you for watching.

[@rodolforubio1824]

Hello bro , did you ever tried the spz Stumpjumper Evo? If yes comparing with the meta TR whichone it's more snappy and descend better. Thanks u very much and merry Christmas bro

[@StraightLine_MTB]

I have not yet been on the stumpjumper evo but really want one. The evo has more travel so that may edge out the TR. Hearing the reviews of the evo I would be hard pressed not to pick it. The TR on the other hand, just looks awesome and has that uniqueness that's hard to beat. Either one is great but availability and price spec may be the best choice

[@rodolforubio1824]

Nice review bro . I'm getting crazy to which bike to get. On my list it's also the nukeproof mega 29 C , you mentioned Something about the NP , am the kind of rider who like to do AM , local trails and in summer ones at week bikeparks,.which one will be better in your opinion? I just sold one of my bikes because wasn,t so playfully as my Cannondale Jekyll i just tried the status to feel how is a mullet and on flat suchs was hard to keep the speed , i think I get used to 29er . Thanks man

[@StraightLine_MTB]

The Mega 290 is a great enduro bike.....maybe even my favorite. The TR is exceptional for its travel as well. TR rides like a bike with more travel and is very confident. TR will be just a bit easier on the climbs, and I found the Mega to be plush on the downs. Mega isn't bad on the climbs. For an all-rounder, as you explain, they'll both serve well. Personally, I'd have a tough time not getting the Mega

[@rodolforubio1824]

@@StraightLine_MTB thanks a lot bro, if u are coming to Europe one day u are welcome to come to my house and show u the trails here in Romania are crazy , I'm come from chile there it's like in California dust and rocky terrain here a lot of grip and plenty of roots and steps black trails. Great day man.

[@StraightLine_MTB]

@Rodolfo Rubio if I'm ever lucky enough to get out there I'd love to ride with you

[@rodolforubio1824]

@@StraightLine_MTB the name of the city it's Brasov , take a look on KZbin if u want like this Postăvaru blackline , or redline there u will see bro . Have a great day dude 😎

[@xvsmask]

Great video! Think about getting one of TR. May I ask your height for reference?

[@StraightLine_MTB]

I am 5'11.5" with 31.5" inseam. Large felt good and I had a 40mm stem.

[@xvsmask]

@@StraightLine_MTB Thx 4 response! I'm 181cm with inseam of 82cm. We actually fit into same bike. Might play with stem length after. buy L sounds right.

[@mathieudeline1897]

Thanks for the review ! How tall are you ? How do you feel on the L size ? Thanks

[@StraightLine_MTB]

I am just under 6' and the large felt good with 40mm stem. For the travel it is very capable downhill. Plus it's really good looking. Thanks for watching Mathieu

[@MrEnlakesh]

Hi Jacob, thanks for your review. Comparing to the Canyon Spectral, is it a noticed difference between Spectral and Mera TR? My previous was Spectral 27.5 2019 and now I'm looking for a new bike. TR is in my shortlist. Thanks.

[@StraightLine_MTB]

I had a 27.5 Spectral from the previous generation, and I believe it was a 2018. The TR is noticeably more confident on the downs. Of cours, the 27.5 Spectral I had was lighter and climbed a bit better. Like most bikes, it will depend on what you're looking for. The TR is a solid 1 bike that leans towards the descent. If you're looking for more capability, then the TR is an excellent option that will still get you to the top

[@MrEnlakesh]

​@@StraightLine_MTB Thanks! The only weight of the bike is a bit confusing because it is +- the same as AM, and it is heavier than my Spectral (it was a carbon). However, I faced some limits on Spectral (or my skills) capability on nasty downhills and needed a bit more travel, but I furthermore kept a "One bike for everything" setup

[@StraightLine_MTB]

@@MrEnlakesh The TR can handle a lot. It has 140mm rear suspension but feels like it has more. I say go with 160mm fork up front and it would be great bike to take most places.

[@arben0906]

Can't wait for the AM and TR head to head review. Because I'm torn between those two...

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Stay tuned 😉

[@arben0906]

@@StraightLine_MTB sure will. Great review btw....👍

[@SUPERCOOLZZ]

I solved this question (for myself) by getting the AM in the smaller size.

[@charlielehan1017]

@@SUPERCOOLZZ did the exact same. is absolutely amazing

[@PeterPhinney]

@@SUPERCOOLZZ maybe a silly question but am or tr would be better for longer trips?

[@alexcasal3207]

Thank you for the review! Love this channel!

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Thank you Alex, we love the support!

[@christinavalenzuela4264]

Always enjoy seeing you and your reviews

[@theoutdoorelements6068]

I'm trying to decide between the YT izzo and the commencal tr 29 essential

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Although travel doesn't seem too far apart those are 2 different bikes. Izzo will climb fast TR will get the climbs done. On the downs the TR will ride like a 150mm bike and Izzo more like a 120mm in my experience. TR would be a great do all bike if you're hitting bike parks and trail type rides. Izzo won't feel at home in techy chunk or a high speeds as the fast chunk will disrupt your line quite a bit. Of course any bike can handle just about anything just depends on what compromise you're willing to work with.

[@2wheeledpiston513]

Excellent review! Very helpful. TR (frame only) is on my short list. I have a dream build Evil Offering (V1) I would be swapping parts over. Offering being a more proper trail bike, by moving towards something as burly as the TR, my fear is I would regret moving away from overall well-roundness of the Offering for a trail smasher like the TR. Would you take the TR to places like Sedona, where there are alot of short and punchy climbs?

[@StraightLine_MTB]

I've not ridden an evil yet but hear the offering is excellent. The TR is indeed on the more enduro side of the trail bike category. Earlier this year I rode Sedona and took the new Devinci Troy. The bike handed everything quite well despite my personal struggles. The TR may be a bit more heavy but that will help smooth out some of the chunky downs. I believe the TR will also have more aggressive geometry which might make it less maneuverable but give some extra traction to claw up. Personally I'd throw a lighter build on the TR and think it would be great. You may be able to find some forums or Facebook groups with Sedona riders that can give you more specific feedback 😉.

[@Rektosaurusrekts]

Thanks for the review, I decided to get the TR race instead of the AM because of your review.

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Awesome. Glad it was helpful. You're going to love the TR

[@ZmiyGorinich]

Why you decided to get TR. I still choose AM or TR. I don't have mountains in my area, but I am planing go to bike parks

[@KelMTB]

Looking forward to the AM vs. TR review

[@StraightLine_MTB]

We are getting that out soon.

[@DeepDiveExplorer]

Great review! It seems like a few recommendations you made have been implemented to the new 2022 Meta TR 29 Race. Now that it has been updated, how do you see it stacking up against the Ripmo AF?

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Thank you RD. From my experience on both I'd feel the TR wins in the DH capability and AF climbs better. The AF is more nimble and playful where the TR feels more planted and stable. The TR is no pig but feel it's the DHers trail bike. Both can handle the 1 bike duties but each has it's own biases. I'd take the AF if I wanted more pop and play with better than average climbing. TR is I wanted more stability and confident when things get real hairy. Looks wise the TR is beautiful 😍 especially in this polished alloy.

[@DeepDiveExplorer]

@@StraightLine_MTB Awesome! I really appreciate your insight. Getting into a new full suspension that is a great all around is no walk in the park with all the great options out there. I just want to make sure I buy once and slowly upgrade components if I need to and not need to buy a whole new rig. 😅

[@DeepDiveExplorer]

@@StraightLine_MTB I have another question for you. Long story short, my meta has not arrived yet. So I'm getting the option to order a Yeti SB130 CLR. What do you think of the SB130 CLR vs the Meta TR Race?

[@StraightLine_MTB]

@@DeepDiveExplorer no experience with the Yeti but did try and snag one previous. After doing research and talking to a friend with a SB150 I think I'd go with 150 over the 130lr. Another option could be the Alchemy Arktos 135. I demoed one in Sedona for a ride and really liked it.

[@DeepDiveExplorer]

@@StraightLine_MTB thank you for the response.

[@Penguin-wk7gq]

The gun metal looks so nice

[@frank_jk]

Great vid! I’ve got my TR signature on pre-order, and I can’t wait to ride it up here in the PNW. Do you find the front wandering during climbs? How easy is it to get off the ground? Thanks!

[@StraightLine_MTB]

I really never noticed and front end wonder. Feels planted on the climbs. It will get up but not as easily as a true trail bike. Jumps no problem but I wouldn't put it in the "poppy" category.

[@fabian5422]

The Suspension movement under climbing is not really I shock tune in my opinion. The bikes look the same but I think the changed something in the linkage.

[@edge2991]

I am five '9 what size do you recommend?

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Unlike the Meta AM, I felt the large TR was on point for me a touch under 6 ft. That was recommended size for me. At 5'9" you're in the medium range so I'd go with that. Large may be too cumbersome.

[@Devast8r34]

Thanks for the reviews if you could find a stock metatr29 ride I'd like to see that. Awesome videos

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Thank you. I think this review is relative to the all builds aside from component choice. Great bike for sure.

[@stepheno.2730]

Bro I’m an old school freeride/dirt jump guy. Would I need this or the AM? I do get silly at times with the drops ect. I also need to pedal tho. Suggestions? Thanks fir the content.

[@StraightLine_MTB]

I think the TR would serve well. Handles downs well enough and is more maneuverable than the AM. It will also pedal a bit better. Throw a coil on for the rowdier rides.. we did a comparison video of the two if you haven't yet watched it.

[@jasonkatz8]

Hey Jacob, awesome review! I actually own the 2021 Meta TR 29 Origin. I feel super hunched over as well and was thinking of both shortening the stem length and getting high rise handlebars. I'm talking 38mm handlebars... Do you think this will make a difference? Thanks again!

[@StraightLine_MTB]

You could add spacers under the stem if you are able to swap them from the top. If not, you could run higher rise bars which will bring you up. You could also find a stem that has a bit of raise to it, but getting a bit shorter stem could work too. Rolling the bars forward a bit can also help. Luckily there are several options on correcting this. Thank you for watching!

[@flipsworld870]

Sick ranfla hermano👌🏽👌🏽 this video popped up because, I just bought myself a Commencal Clash Essential. Greetings from Canada 🇨🇦 🤟🏽🤟🏽

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Gracia carnal. Clash looks sick! Thanks for watching.

[@mtbohana]

Sweet review and thanks for answering my question on brake jack. I had a feeling it would still be there due to the suspension design.

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Thank you for the feedback, hope it was helpful!

[@Evodany]

Nice review! I have the 2020 tr essential version, and now i wait the green essential 2021, is a really good bike, i think have the seat more straight is very important in the climband is the only reason for changing bike

[@StraightLine_MTB]

The steep seat tube angle on these bikes are great. It puts you over the cranks and helps get the power down. You'll love it

[@Evodany]

I look for a coil suspension but i not sure if is ok for doing a lot of climb, i thik will be to much heavy. What do you think!?

[@StraightLine_MTB]

@@Evodany it will add weight and have more suspension movement when pedaling. Personally for the TR I'd stick with air shock. Maybe get a coil also and swap it for bike park or shuttle days.

[@liwx]

Great vid ! Been looking to buy tr29. How tall are you in cm and what size you got if you don’t mind me asking ?

[@StraightLine_MTB]

I am 5'11.5" and riding size large. I feel it is a good fit for this bike for me.

[@lovr8363]

Great informative video! Definitely thinking about buying this bike. Any other details or info I should know before purchasing this bike? Thanks!

[@StraightLine_MTB]

The TR is a solid choice and think you will love it. It rides like a bigger bike and can eat chunk well. For the most part I think I covered all my thoughts but look at sizing. I think the TR felt less big than the AM in the same size. Only other thing is that it is sold out for a bit and got great praise from Pinkbike so that may be pushing that as well.

[@lovr8363]

@@StraightLine_MTB Good to know. Thanks alot brother!

[@SherlockChromesSFY]

Thanks for the review! I’m seriously eyeing the Meta. I’m conflicted between two bikes though. For 2021 models, what’s your opinion comparing Meta TR and the Stumpy?

[@StraightLine_MTB]

I haven't ridden either of the new Stumpjumpers but would say the TR would be more comparable to the Evo model. The new Stumpys look amazing and wouldn't have much issue riding or owning one. Its a tough call... the TR is a great bike but my biggest gripe is the weight but that weight adds some stability in the rough chunk.

[@SherlockChromesSFY]

@@StraightLine_MTB the weight is a little concerning to me too. I live in Florida and it’s mostly a mix of short climbs and descents. There is a lot of chunk with rocks and tree roots though. I’m leaning more towards the Meta. Haha. Decisions are tough, especially pricey ones. 😲

[@StraightLine_MTB]

@@SherlockChromesSFY yeah its hard to choose. Good news is you'll be happy either way. For what you described the TR would be great.

[@SherlockChromesSFY]

@@StraightLine_MTB sick 😎🙌🏼. Thanks, homie

[@fademasterfade227]

Cool bike, seems like a good recipe going on. Nice garage too man.

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Thank you!

[@lachcurtis5503]

Great vid! You mentioned in a previous comment you're 5'11", just wondering what size frame you ride in this video? I'm 5'10" and i'm at the top end of the medium, bottom end of the large. Not sure which to go for. Thanks!

[@StraightLine_MTB]

I am just under 6' and riding a Large. I think I would size down to Medium at 5'10". Should be a good fit.

[@stickboyjp]

On the same topic, I'm 6'3". I'm at the top end for a Large., very bottom for XL. Would you recommend to size down here as well?

[@StraightLine_MTB]

@@stickboyjp The TR wasn't as "big" as the AM so think about how you like your bikes to handle. Do you prefer more maneuverability or stability. Honestly, if I was your height I would probably go with XL as I prefer a bit more smash.

[@laxmonkey1414]

@@StraightLine_MTB Was large the right size for you or do you think a medium would have been a better fit? Im just shy of 6ft as well and cant decide between a large or medium.

[@StraightLine_MTB]

@@laxmonkey1414 for the TR large was a good fit. I ran it with a 50mm stem and could go with 40mm as well. Medium may feel a bit small but could give some maneuverability...I'd go with large personally

[@CopperCityPatriot]

Gangsta Paradise, is now riding two-wheel Low-riders. Outstanding.

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Gotta keep them guessing 😎

[@derrickj925]

Really like your reviews. Thanks for the quality content! Got a question for you. How do you compare this bike to the Ripmo AF? When it comes to bike parks and rowdier stuff, does the Meta TR do a better job?

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Thank you for the feedback! I think the TR is more downhill focused than the AF. The while both can handle bike park laps, the TR will be more confident at speed and the rough. The TR feels like it has more suspension than 140mm and really shines in the fast chunk. The AF can handle chunk as well but won't feel as comfortable or confident when speeds pick up in the technical terrain. Both frames will be similar in weight which seems a bit odd as the TR looks like it has more metal than the AF. Both great bikes so I would say if you are looking for logging more climbing miles the AF would be a little better on longer rides where the TR will be better for technical terrain and bike park laps. Hope that helps and thanks for watching!

[@derrickj925]

@@StraightLine_MTB "You hope this helps" Dude you just gave me a top tier quality analysis for my needs. Thank you for putting this type of time and analysis for a random viewer of yours. Greatly appreciated. I hope you and the fam have a great holidays!

[@StraightLine_MTB]

@@derrickj925 Viewers and subscribers like you are the reason we do this and I really enjoy offering my experience. I appreciate your support and hope you have a safe and happy Christmas.....and get loads of cool bike parts. Stop by anytime with any questions or comments. Thanks again Derrick!

[@derrickj925]

Thanks @@StraightLine_MTB , I highly appreciate it!

[@MILTONATOR]

Bro, you’re making it difficult for me to stick with my Pivot Firebird (which I love) 😅 loving the 2021 Metas 😍

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Sorry brother lol, new Metas are amazing bikes. Really confident descenders. Firebird is no slouch either. Thanks for watching bro.

[@drmoynihan]

Yes - I love my 2020 Commencal Meta TR. It's a Trail Bike leaning towards Enduro, but the 2022 is just too long and even more enduro geometry.

[@StraightLine_MTB]

The newest models do have a longer geo but felt the TR was comfortable and composed. I'm seeing some manufacturers pushing the geo limits and others keeping it relatively (at least in regards to the push for longer and skacker) mild.

[@jmarkII]

sick review dude. Dig it

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Thank you!

[@arturogrijalvaortega6583]

Im 6 foto tall, shock di Góngora the M or L size? Im worried about the dropper post 150 mm vs 170 mm

[@StraightLine_MTB]

I'm 5'11.5" riding a large with 170mm dropper no problem. The TR isn't as "big" as the AM version so I think at 6' you would be fine on a Large. You could go Medium for more pop and a little lighter but I prefer more stability and plow so I'd go large. As you can see in the video, I have my dropper pulled up about an inch from fully in so you should be fine with 170mm or even 180mm dropper. Be aware that the routing for dropper is some work so be sure to leave the housing in if changing. Thanks for watchin Arturo.

[@JoelManers]

Great review. Thanks for the detail.

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Glad it was helpful!

[@garyjones7381]

I spy the Stone Wall trail, the Culvert Trail, and Rocky’s. Nice vid 👍🏻

[@StraightLine_MTB]

My favorite loop. Thanks for watching Gary.

[@mhorz2x]

did your bike come with mounting hardware, bushings and a derailleur hanger when you bought the frame only?

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Yes, you will have to press out the eyelet bushing on the shock as the supplied bushing doesn't need it since that end of the shock doesn't rotate. Derailleur hanger is also there but you will need to purchase a seatpost clamp.. Just add headset, bb and build kit.

[@mhorz2x]

@@StraightLine_MTB I see. So if i were to order a frame with shock straight from commencal, would i not need to buy extra mounting hardware, bushings, and a derailleur hanger? Considering I wouldnt pick the bike build option since its not a whole bike

[@StraightLine_MTB]

@@mhorz2x I didn't get my shock from Commencal so I am unsure about the mounting hardware. The frame does not come with the mounting hardware for the shock and I had to buy it separately. I would guess that if you are buying a frame and shock combo it would but it may be best to reach out to Commencal to double check. The derailleur hanger does come with the frame so you do not need to order unless you wanted a spare.

[@mhorz2x]

@@StraightLine_MTB thanks man! huge help.

[@dandantillthen588]

@@StraightLine_MTB what size seatpost clamp did u get?

[@Adzzaa]

Great review mate , so if you had the choice which bike this Meta or Orbea Occam or the Yt Izzo for an all round bike.

[@StraightLine_MTB]

I think it depends on what your focus and trails are. The Occam and Izzo are going to be bikes that will need finesse and more thoughtfulness on line choice on the fastest technical terrain such as black diamond trails. The Meta TR will pretty much be a bike you can smash the tech a lot faster and more comfortably. On the climbs the YT and Occam are great climbers with the YT being a bit faster up. The TR isn't a bad climber but I'd put it in the "good enduro bike climber" box. For me, the TR would be the best ONE bike choice as I like the chunkier fast trails and do like the bike park in the summer.

[@ducinguyen5510]

Nice video! How tall are you?

[@StraightLine_MTB]

5'11"

[@ducinguyen5510]

@@StraightLine_MTB i‘m 5‘11 too and i worry that the 29er meta is too big to get air and flick it around and whip it. I also interested in the propain tyee 27.5er. What do you think about that?

[@StraightLine_MTB]

@@ducinguyen5510 it's a bigger bike but will jump just fine. It isn't going to be really poppy or flickable like a trail bike but may be more so than a true enduro bike.

[@stamy1]

Your channel is great and your videos are getting better and better. I have only one suggestion, please take off the sunglasses when talking to your viewers. It might just be me but I really don't like that I can't see your eyes when you are doing the "talking to the camera" parts of your reviews. Anyway, keep up the good work!

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Thanks for the support. I have a bit of light sensitivity so when outside, or in this case, with bright lights on me I have a difficult time not squinting or getting headaches. I'm working on it though.

[@stamy1]

@@StraightLine_MTB I see, medical reasons are a totally different story.

[@calrc123]

What’s the frame size

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Size large.

[@12e2112]

Color bike?

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Polished aluminum....awesome

[@dukeofmtb]

Just a thought here: There's an Australian company (www.williamsracingproducts.com/shop/p/meta-mullet-linkage) that makes a slightly longer yoke/linkage for the shock that allows you to run the TR in a mullet setup while maintaining the same geo. This got me thinking though. Why not just install a 230x60 shock. Not only will it do the same thing and allow you to run 27.5 on the rear while maintaining geometry, but you'll also be increasing the rear travel to 152mm. A 160/152 mullet Meta TR sounds like a dream. If you have a 230x60 shock and a 27.5 wheel lying around, would you be will to try this and make a video about it? I have a sneaking suspicion that next years Meta TR models will be exactly this.

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Sounds like that would make the TR a beast on the downs. Unfortunately we have sold off the TR in order to bring in more bikes.

[@dukeofmtb]

@@StraightLine_MTB That's cool. Trying to find someone to make a custom link to make it work. The AM just feels like too much for me, so it would be sweet if I can figure out a way to make this work on the TR.

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

😂🤙🔥Top review man ,cheers

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Thank you!

[@johnnnewmex]

Five years ago this would be called a mountain bike...now it is trail or enduro. 😝

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Seriously. There are so many adjectives to describe a bikes intended use it can get confusing. I think as bike geo and suspension has evolved the different categories help consumers differentiate the differences. 20 or so years ago they were riding hardtails with 620mm bars and rim brakes down gnarly downhill tracks lol. Thanks for watching.

[@datdudeinred]

Why is your content is labelled as made for kids? I can't turn on notifications. That's my problem with this review its that well put together.. 😂

[@StraightLine_MTB]

That weird, just checked and it's not marked for children.