Felt Compulsion 10 – Review

Dec 22, 2014
by Richard Cunningham  



Felt stepped up its game for the 2015 season with a near-complete overhaul of its range, headlined by updated geometry and big changes in its component specifications. Felt’s 160-millimeter-travel Compulsion AM/enduro bike may have benefitted most from the makeover. The Compulsion’s successors evolved from Felt’s cross-country racing roots and expectedly, they rode like XC trailbikes with lots of suspension travel. The 2015 version, however, was spearheaded by DH Pro Scott Sharples who was fresh on the job as Felt’s mountain bike product manager – and as we would soon discover, the new Compulsion is a completely different animal.

Our test bike, Felt’s top-of-the-range Compulsion 10, is designed around 27.5-inch wheels and Felt’s efficient rolling Equilink rear suspension. Its aluminum chassis is manipulated in every dimension to save weight and its components read like a race bike’s - with a SRAM X1 transmission, powered by a RaceFace Turbine crankset; a RockShox Pike Solo Air fork and Monarch Plus RC3 shock; a 760-millimeter handlebar paired with a short, 50-millimeter stem; SRAM’s new Guide Trail brakes; a KS dropper post; and a worthy set of wheels and tires. The Compulsion’s third-generation frame design and well-executed component selection result in a 29-pound all-mountain ripper with a very attractive MSRP of $4499 USD.





Features:

• Purpose: All-Mountain/trail, enduro competition
• Frame: 6061 aluminum, 160mm travel Equilink suspension, ISCG 05 mounts, tapered head tube, threaded 73mm bottom bracket, Syntace X12 through-axle, external cables and hoses with internal dropper post routing.
• Fork: RockShox Pike RCT3 Solo Air, 160mm, 42mm offset
• Shock: RockShox Monarch Plus RC3
• Drivetrain: SRAM X1 with RaceFace Turbine crankset, 30-tooth
• Brakes: SRAM Guide Trail, 180mm rotors
• Wheels: WTB i23 KOM rims, Novatec Superlight hubs
• Tires: Schwalbe Rock Razor 2.35” rear and Hans Dampf 2.35” front.
• Dropper post: KS LEV, external routing.
• Sizes: Small, medium (reviewed), large and X-large
• Weight: 29 pounds (13.18kg)
• MSRP: $4499 USD
• Contact: Felt Bicycles



Construction

Felt’s designers are crazy about butting and hydroforming aluminum tubes, so every pipe on the Compulsion is heavily manipulated. Like most bikes in its class, the Compulsion’s front section dips deeply to afford as much stand-over clearance as possible and its seat tube is braced for strength and stiffness. Stand-over is claimed to be 732 millimeters (28.8 inches) for the medium frame, which rates among the best in the 160-millimeter-travel class. Up front is the now-standard tapered head tube and, deviating from current fashion, Felt puts all the cables and hoses on the outside of the Compulsion’s frame. In the rear you’ll find post-type caliper bosses and a Syntace X-12 style through-axle. Throughout the frame are well-thought-out appointments like ISCG chain guide tabs, a bonded, rubberized chain stay protector, a direct-mount front derailleur boss camouflaged by an aluminum cap, and ports for an internally routed dropper post. The only loser items outfitting the Compulsion frame are the hardware-store cable guides on the underside of the down tube.

Felt Compulsion 10 geometry 2015
  (Clockwise) Felt chose to keep all the hoses and housings easily accessible, on the outside of the frame. A rubber cap on the seat tube gives future access for an internal dropper post. Laser-etched cap covering the front changer mount. The post-mount brake is tucked inside the chain stay for protection.


Felt's sizing is on the small side. We consider the top tube length to be the most important indicator for correct sizing and if one studies Felt's geometry chart, the correct length for the medium-size small Compulsion is 23.5 inches (588mm), which is in the ballpark for a bike with a 50-millimeter stem. A rough measurement indicated that the bike's top tube was shorter by a half inch (13mm). Also, the Compulsion's seat tube is raked back, which effectively shortens the bike's reach when the dropper post is retracted, which adds to the bike's compact feel. By comparison, many long-travel all-mountain designs are now corrected for stem-length, with medium sized top tubes measuring upwards of 23.5 inches, so visit your Felt dealer armed with a measuring tape and plan to buy one size larger than you are accustomed to riding. Check out Felt's interactive bike-sizing page.

Felt Compulsion 10 2015
bigquotesDepending upon where the designer locates the Equilink column on the rockers, the suspension can be tuned to remain uncoupled from pedalling forces, or to produce a measure of anti-squat to firm up the suspension under power.


Suspension

Felt’s addition to the rear suspension jungle is its well proven Equilink system, which is a twist on the popular dual-link configuration. Instead of welding the rear triangle into a rigid structure, Felt ties the upper and lower rocker links together with a vertical arm called the Equilink. Depending upon where the designer locates the Equilink column on the rockers, the suspension can be tuned to remain uncoupled from pedalling forces, or to produce a measure of anti-squat to firm up the suspension under power. The Compulsion is configured to produce a small amount of anti-squat. On a less technical note, the lightly stressed Equilink column rides on permanently lubricated bushings, while the rest of suspension’s moving parts pivot on sealed ball bearings.

RockShox powers the Compulsion’s suspension, with the well-respected Pike RCT3 Solo Air fork configured with in the 42-millimeter offset option, and a custom-tuned Monarch Plus shock taking up the back. The Compulsion’s leverage rate averages out close to 2.5:1, so it should be simple to tune the shock for a wide range of rider weights and bike-handling styles.



Components:
Specifications
Release Date 2015
Price $4499
Travel 160mm
Rear Shock RockShox Monarch Plus RC3
Fork RockShox Pike RCT3 Solo Air, 160mm travel
Headset FSA semi internal
Cassette SRAM X1 11-speed
Crankarms Raceface Turbine 275mm, 30-tooth narrow-wide chainring
Chainguide ISCG 05 mounts
Bottom Bracket Raceface threaded, 73mm
Pedals NA
Rear Derailleur SRAM X1 Type 2
Chain SRAM X1
Front Derailleur NA, direct-mount boss on frame
Shifter Pods SRAM X1
Handlebar Felt MTB carbon, 31.8mm, 8mm rise x 9° sweep, 760mm width
Stem Felt aluminum, 50mm
Grips Felt lock-on
Brakes SRAM Guide, 180mm rotors
Wheelset Felt custom
Hubs Novatec Superlight
Spokes Butted stainless, aluminum nipples
Rim WTB i23 KOM aluminum, 23mm inside width.
Tires Schwalbe 27.5" x 2.35" - Hans Dampf folding TL Easy (front), Rock Razor Performance TL Easy (rear)
Seat WTB Volt, Cr-Mo rails
Seatpost KS LEV dropper post, external cable routing





bigquotesWith some help from the grippy Schwalbe Hans Dampf front tire and the reinforced edging tread of the Rock Razor rear tire, the Felt held a smooth arc around high-speed, chunky sweepers and tight, stepped switchbacks.

Felt got the Compulsion's cockpit right for 2015, which becomes apparent sitting on the bike for the first time. The sweep and width of the carbon handlebar is such that the hands fall in place on the grips. Its WTB Saddle is a PB favorite, and the SRAM Guide brake levers are quickly gaining the same status. As mentioned, the Compulsion felt too compact for a medium-sized all-mountain bike, which meant that all of the test riders ran the saddle well back on its rails to gain some real estate in the office.

Setting up the suspension was as easy as it gets. Run the Monarch Plus shock at 30-percent sag, set the Pike fork at 25-percent and the Compulsion is good to go. The bike's Equilink suspension allows for a softer tune without compromising pedalling efficiency. All of the bikes we brought to Arizona for testing were converted to tubeless, which is essential in an area where a supple rolling tire is the key to maintaining momentum over the rocks and where sealant is constantly being tested by cactus. With the suspension adjusted for technical riding and tire pressures at 28psi front and 30psi rear, the Compulsion was a set-and-forget trail bike. We rarely employed damping aids to firm up its pedalling for climbing.

Rolling out on some fast paced singletrack told us that the Compulsion was going to be one of the better pedalling bikes we've ridden this season. Accelerating and pedalling at speed over smoother trails was made easier by its seamless transition from seated to out-of-the-saddle efforts. It made easy work of the many steep, punchy climbs that characterize Sedona's trail network and it carried momentum well over the incessant chatter of its loose stones and stepped red rock. Felt should be applauded for selecting a 30-tooth chainring for the Compulsion. It has the traction and balance to claw its way up some awfully steep and arduous climbs, where its lower gearing was often the difference between needless suffering and sweet success. Paired with the bike's mid-sized wheels, the 30-tooth ring provided ample top speed for any situation we encountered on the dirt, although we easily spun out the top gear on gravel road descents or when commuting to the mountain.

Turning and steering qualities were surprisingly good. We were expecting the comparatively short-coupled Felt to feel less planted in the corners, especially at speed, but it was a joy to push around, with predictable breakaway traction and steering that required light pressure on the handlebar. Felt chose a 66-degree head tube angle for the Compulsion, which is a full degree steeper than one would find on the enduro-bike-of-the-moment, but it works exceptionally well on the Compulsion. With some help from the grippy Schwalbe Hans Dampf front tire and the reinforced edging tread of the Rock Razor rear tire, the Felt held a smooth arc around high-speed, chunky sweepers and tight, stepped switchbacks. When the tires do break traction, the sense is that the bike is searching for grip, not sliding for style points.

Wayne Wonnacott on the Felt Compulsion 10

bigquotesIts geometry is slack enough to get you down the big bike lines, without robbing the necessary nimbleness that makes trail riding enjoyable.

Technical riding gave us cause for concern on the occasions when we were dropping down steep chutes where traction was questionable. Here, the bike's short-ish wheelbase and flat-top RockRazor rear tire meant that we could get the bike sideways in a hurry, which is not a good thing when the trail you are descending is the only ten-inch swath of stone that can be rolled without consequence. A change of rubber would tame the Compulsion's tail end in those situations, but we happily put up with the quirks of the Rock Razor because of its low rolling resistance and predictable cornering everywhere else.

With the rider's weight centralized over the bike, the Felt was a joy to maneuver around tight turns or down chunky boulder drops. The front tire could be lifted to clear an object or soften a drop with little effort - even midway around a bend. A slight move forward and some pressure on the handlebar was all that was necessary to pin the front wheel to the ground for hard braking or a secure corner entry. SRAM's Guide Trail brakes came into their own in the technical bits, with modulation qualities that allowed us to keep the tires scuffing at the edge of their grip without skidding.

Suspension performance could be predicted, because three of four all-mountain trailbikes we have ridden this season have sported a RockShox Pike fork and Monarch Plus shock. In the case of the Compulsion, however, the Pike RCT3 rides a tad more harshly over small and mid-sized chatter than we are used to experiencing. We attributed this to the bike's suspension configuration, postulating that the Equilink may respond more rapidly to the little stuff, causing the fork to drive the shock and feel less responsive. Flipping the Monarch Plus's low-speed compression lever to the "Trail" position forced the fork to deliver a smoother ride at the expense of unnecessary roughness on the rear, an observation that may be helpful to potential owners.

To answer Felt's claims that the Compulsion’s Equilink suspension is uncoupled from pedalling and braking, we would have to concur that it is one of the more active rear suspensions we rode in Sedona in both cases. Like a good Horst-Link rear end, the Felt could be relied upon to mute momentum-robbing steps, roots and rocks while we were climbing without stealing fire from our legs. Similarly, the bike felt smoother than most AM trailbikes while we were hard on the brakes, picking lines down steep slick rock. The odd quirk is that the Felt rear suspension seemed to react quicker and more smoothly to square-edged hits while under power than it did when we were coasting. Go figure.

Wayne Wonnacott on the Felt Compulsion 10

bigquotesTo answer Felt's claims that the Compulsion's Equilink suspension is uncoupled from pedalling and braking, we would have to concur that it is one of the more active rear suspensions we rode in Sedona in both cases.




Technical Report

Mechanically, the Compulsion earns good marks all around, with a excellent component selection, especially considering its MSRP. Top earners in this category are its RockShox suspension, SRAM brakes, and a cockpit that is appointed with a range of high value and house-brand items that, with one exception, delivered pro-level performance throughout the review period. What we liked most was that Felt's part selection did its job without calling attention to any specific part. We could ride the bike with our full attention directed on the task ahead.

KS LEV dropper post: The one exception was the KS dropper, which would fail to extend completely at random moments. More frustrating, though, was the post's tendency to creep downward gradually, settling about 20 millimeters below our optimum ride height. Many times, we thought our legs were fatigued to destruction, only to discover that the dropper post had lowered the saddle - again. Yes, we checked too be sure the post was not overtightened in the frame. Yes, we checked the cable adjustment. Yes, this type of fail has happened before with the KS dropper and will probably occur again. We joked that LEV was an acronym for "Least Evolved Version."

SRAM X1 rear mech: During the Sedona test sessions, we noticed that some SRAM type 2 rear derailleurs were slow to shift down to the smaller cogs and the Felt had one of them. Checks of the cable routing and inspections of the changers revealed no apparent problems in all cases, but it seems like a trend. Has SRAM chosen a softer return spring in later model derailleurs? We had to fiddle with the cable adjustment to find a happy medium between the reluctant return and acceptable shifts to the larger cogs. We've reached out to SRAM and an explanation is pending.

Tires: Two thumbs up on the Schwalbe Rock Razor - a great dry condition tire for riders who want a large-volume, fast-rolling option with monster cornering grip. As expected, we burned through the tread blocks of the Hans Dampf in a few glorious days. We have heard rumors that Schwalbe is in the process of toughening up the Hans Dampf - it surely needs it.

SRAM Guide Trail Brakes: The more we ride 'em, the more we like 'em. Lots of power and plenty of control, and for the first time, a consistent feel throughout the entire all-mountain performance envelope.



Pinkbike's Take:
bigquotesFelt got the Compulsion right. Those searching for an all-mountain/enduro bike that can double as an everyday trail bike need look no further. Its geometry is slack enough to get you down the big bike lines, without robbing the necessary nimbleness that makes trail riding enjoyable. As long as you are lucky and get one of the good KS dropper posts, there aren't any parts that need upgrading on the Compulsion 10, so its $4500 sticker price would be money well spent. Riders who are searching for a low-and-slack mini DH bike with climbing gears to shred bike parks and shuttle, however, should look elsewhere, because the magic of the Compulsion 10 stems from its ability to span the chasm between an efficient pedalling trail bike and the secure descending performance required for enduro racing and technical all-mountain rides. Our one caveat is the Compulsion's short-ish top tube, although it may prove to be a blessing in disguise for riders with statures that consistently fall between sizes. That said, bring a tape measure and demo a 2015 Compulsion 10 - it is an entirely different animal. - RC



View full size images in the review gallery.



Author Info:
RichardCunningham avatar

Member since Mar 23, 2011
974 articles

165 Comments
  • 129 3
 did he mention how the bike felt?
  • 18 24
flag therealtylerdurden (Dec 22, 2014 at 3:21) (Below Threshold)
 hahhhh see what ya did there
  • 78 2
 Of course he did, that was compulsory.
  • 19 0
 that comment was a 10
  • 6 2
 Review your opinion!
  • 5 17
flag Extremmist (Dec 22, 2014 at 14:53) (Below Threshold)
 Your comments are so cunning, one must always look for some hidden message. Switch off your computers and have some Christmas ham instead...
  • 5 2
 I see that the Cunningham pun was too complicated for you, next time I'll come with something easier Wink
  • 7 0
 Whatever, @ExtremmelyLaboredPun.
  • 3 1
 i felt a compulsion to make a bad pun...honestly, are there any good puns?
  • 54 2
 "The sweep and width of the carbon handlebar is such that the hands fall in place on the grips."

Hahahaha am just I drunk or does this sound absurdly goofy? In actuality I am drunk, and I understand the premise of the sentence, that the bar geo is spot on.. But it just comes off as marketing speak written for those with the mental capacity of cabbage. Or maybe I'm just drunk. Which I am.
  • 10 0
 No, you're right. The whole article was very awkward.
  • 13 0
 six66 have you been drinking? I couldn't be sure from your comment.
  • 19 0
 RC throwing in some Mountain Bike Action flair.
  • 3 0
 @patrick9-32 haha fair play, I tend to remain relatively articulate up to blackout level
  • 3 0
 "Once underway, the controls fell readily to hand", a phrase I have been reading since the seventies.
  • 3 12
flag lumpys FL (Dec 22, 2014 at 18:22) (Below Threshold)
 www.pinkbike.com/u/plattekiller Holy Christmas holiday your f*cking unreal man. Are you an engineer or my dad! I love you man. by the way... shut up!
  • 35 4
 I'd like to know who at SRAM thought that putting all those holes in jockey wheels was a good idea.
They do nothing but fill up with mud, dust (if you're lucky enough to have dust), twigs etc. and screw your shifting performance.

For the sake of 3 grams, I'd rather have a solid wheel. The extra plastic will weigh a lot less than the mud which fills the holes.
  • 3 0
 ^^^^^^^^YES!
  • 15 3
 I'd wish when I came back from every ride here, my bike was covered with a nice layer of powder fine dust. Frown

"ISCG 05 mounts, tapered head tube, threaded 73mm bottom bracket, Syntace X12 through-axle, external cables and hoses with internal dropper post routing."
They must have been reading here. Wink
  • 11 0
 honestly seems like a screaming deal for the price range. most bikes kitted out like this are 1 or 2 grand more.
  • 3 0
 Demo'd one of these back in October. Fortunately, or unfortunately, the rear derailleur is XO1, not XX1. Now, Felt's website says it's X1. Still, a LEV, Pike RCT3, wide-ish tubeless wheels, and Guide RC3 brakes for under $5k? That might be the best deal for an AM bike today...
  • 4 0
 This is why I'm pretty happy to live in Europe at the moment; just bought a Canyon Strive AL 7 (with an almost exactly the same spec as this with Reverb, DT E1700 Wheels and Rental bar/stem being the only major differences) for £2600 (circ. $4000).

I'd be going insane if I was in the states at the moment knowing that bike company could probably be direct selling completes like this at around $3000 with this type of spec.
  • 2 0
 Crazy how the bike market has flipped in just a couple of years. Back in the day one would almost come up with an excuse to go to the states just to bring a bike back home.
  • 2 0
 Crank strikes galore BTW, just spotted the crankarm length...
  • 2 0
 i want a god damn Canyon DHX, soooo cheap, soooooo good. but yes, this is a good deal for us in north america. unfortunately...
  • 14 4
 My KS LEV has been miles more reliable than both the reverbs i had , they both broke , so decided to change ....no problems since...
  • 5 0
 good to know.
  • 6 1
 My KS Lev has been back for a warranty repair twice! Never had a single issue with my Reverbs
  • 1 0
 Same here. That happened to it once. It's a cable slippage issue.
  • 6 1
 Flawless LEV experience. But Reverb.. just NO. Forgot to mention that Reverb actuation button is the worst thing which was on my bike. Uncomfortable, breaks too easily and repair kit is too expensive.
  • 2 0
 Have a KS Lev and Reverb. Like the trigger on the Reverb over the KS. KS beats the Reverb on saddle wiggle. Overall both are great and haven't had a single real issue with either. I tend to favor my KS over the Reverb only because my KS is 150mm while my Reverb is 125mm. If I went out and bought one right now I would probably get another KS Lev because I prefer the wire actuation over the hydraulic.
  • 6 0
 Also, if you do have problems with your LEV, I've been trying to help people out here:

forums.mtbr.com/all-mountain/ks-lev-diy-cartridge-rebuild-899659.html

-Chris
  • 2 0
 @ cakelly4
thanks good guy chris
  • 6 0
 I'll be honest, I can't even think about this brand without thinking how they should get Chaz Romalis to name their bikes. The Cove Foreplay? How about the Felt Myballs? or the Felt Somebigtits. It's puerile, but whatever.
  • 8 1
 jesuschrist, 5 letters in and the stupid 'stepping up their game' phrase is already used.
  • 3 1
 People always say it...
  • 4 1
 I HAVE AN APPETITE FOR GAME CHANGING VERBIAGE
  • 3 0
 I owned a 2008 felt redemption from 2008 until this year and I have to say it is a very capable bike but not a fun bike. It handled everything well but descending always felt like you were on the edge of control. It was from the rear suspension equal link, I could never get the shock setup for a comfortable confident ride down. As for pedaling it was never that efficient on climbs. This year I got a evil uprising with the exact same set up and it blows it out of the water on everything. That's my two cents on felt
  • 1 0
 Riding a '08 compulsion I built from a NOS frame last summer! Very fun, albeit a bit heavy, bike. Active suspension, works decently well under most conditions, but the shock heats up and fades easily, and the frame is on the flexy side of things. The issue is they were running long, somewhat thin chain stays across the range with long, long, long upper rockers with not a ton in the way of bracing so the rear would bounce and twang easily. That and they were early in the iterations of the design and suffered from a lot of pedal kickback and chain slap from hell. The compulsion at least climbed pretty darn well despite its weight, but the bikes definitely had a "long travel XC machine" feel to them rather than an aggro, intense tackle-everything bike feel like you would have think they would have had.

About to pull the trigger on a '14 LT3 for more than 50% off at my LBS though. A very worthy upgrade and I can't be more stoked about it.
  • 1 0
 50%! Dam
That's a deal. I just hope they have fixed all those problems our older versions had.
  • 4 1
 It's bikes like this, that make me think the predictions of doom & gloom for alu frames in the high end market* are silly. competitively priced, competitively weighted, I see a lot more bikes that look like this selling than a $8000 carbon wunderbike, & if you specced this down to what carbon bikes in this price point come with, it'd cost half as much as they do.

(*understanding that anything over $500 is the "high end bike market," we are the 1%.)
  • 2 4
 Wow!
I realy didn't know about such predictions...
Where did you get them ?

I wouldn't wanted alloy frames/bikes stop developing and gone.
  • 6 0
 I just bought an alloy hardtail. Reading MTB sites gives a skewed sense of the scene, I think. half the guys out on my trails are still riding 26ers, and few if any are carbon.
  • 2 1
 @groghunter - you are absolutely correct, anything over $500 for a new bike is considered, by the vast majority of people (who would think of bikes as something you buy at Walmart), "high end" and expensive. Someone working for Trek got her garage broken into and a bunch of bikes stolen here recently. The bikes were recovered, and the local newspaper's website reported on that. Commenters on that article were split between those who thought that the value estimates (about 7-8k/bike, IIRC) were mistaken, and those who thought that just showed that all bikers are elitist rich people and should be charged a license fee/tax. Mountain biking is NOT mainstream.
  • 3 1
 @groghunter - I'm a big fan of carbon and related composite technologies. I'm a windsurfer, and materials have taken that sport up so many performance levels, it's downright ridiculous. That said, I'm with you - for mountain bikes, there seems to very much still be a niche for alloy bikes. I'd argue for most of us, they're the sweet spot. And if you look at frame weights, it seems that the carbon frames aren't so much about weight advantages, as they are about other issues (perhaps the ability to achieve different shapes, or have more stiffness where you want it without having to give up on compliance and softness where that's appropriate).
  • 2 1
 Yup. I'm not down on CF, but there's been a few predictions(especially when someone comes out with a particularly affordable plastic bike, or when people point to how much cheaper stuff from light-bicycle or nextie is) of how the alu bike will be relegated to the comfort bike segment in a few years, but I just don't see that being true for some time yet.
  • 2 1
 @groghunter - I'm with you. And I think you bring up a good point - there are some companies that bring out cheap CF, and people think it's the next big thing. Problem is, you can get CF composites to be cheaper only by either reducing the cost of materials, reducing the complexity of the layup/composite structure (to reduce labor or shop time, etc.), or the cost of labor (by either automating the process - which requires huge capital expenditure and is thus not really feasible for small batch production, or by hiring cheaper labor with less experience). With the exception of the huge capital expenditure route, this tends to make for worse performance characteristics or worse strength/weight ration or both. Not all CF construction is equal.
  • 9 6
 "Felt’s addition to the rear suspension jungle is its well proven Equilink system"

Which they stole the idea/concept for, from its actual inventor when they realized he hadn't filed a US patent application yet. Therefore to me it doesn't matter how well their equilink bikes get reviewed, I'd never spend my money on one.

kavikbicycle.com/?p=65
  • 2 0
 You tell 'em, man!
  • 9 3
 Nice looks, priced right. Good job PB.
  • 10 22
flag bikecustomizer (Dec 22, 2014 at 2:14) (Below Threshold)
 $4499 - huge facepalm.
"priced right" - LOL Smile
  • 7 0
 at this spec that is a good price.
  • 3 0
 Not many x1 with an RCT3 setups under 5k...
  • 2 1
 @bikecustomizer - did you see the spec? I'm not saying five grand us not a lot of money, but given the componentry and suspension, I'd say that's priced aggressively compared to its competition.
  • 2 25
flag bikecustomizer (Dec 22, 2014 at 9:20) (Below Threshold)
 Hey guys, is there at least one of you who already bought it or going to recently ?
Common, it is a good price! Smile

Of course I saw the specs!
Man, $4500 is already a HUGE.
4500 it is a used car. May be not the best but is is a CAR.
Or motobike!

For these money it is ZERODE G2 could be assembled or used in excellent condition: 2 th on frame other on super fine components.
Or Banshee Legend or Intense M9.
It is a couple of Mongoose Pinn'rs with dualcrown Dorados!
Look at buy-sell sometime.

F..ck that X1 or XXXXX2 or other expensive stuff - it will never make you a better rider!

Still the "PRICED RIGHT" is LOL for me. But I of course agree that 4500 is holy 2 times less than 9000 for other high-end pretender.
These pritty different numbers only make me pritty the SAME LOL sometime: it just UNREAL 5000 or 3000 or 9000 Smile )))

Look for it after a couple of years for RIGHT PRICED. I think about 1500-2000 in super condition.
But it is also too much for me.

*** If for you or for someone other it is a GOOD PRICE - common, buy it. ***
Don't become mad about comments.
  • 2 10
flag bikecustomizer (Dec 22, 2014 at 10:25) (Below Threshold)
 -5 is very well! HA HA!
But the question persists:
Is there at least one of you who already bought it or going to recently ?
Can you afford this "good priced" $4500 bike ?
  • 7 1
 Oh hey, I've got an idea! If you can't afford it..... hang on, this is a big one...


DONT BUY IT!



Cost is relative. Relative to other bikes with similar spec, this is a good price.
Don't like how much bikes cost these days? Don't buy one. This is how much manufacturing, marketing, R&D, staffing, warehousing, distribution and all the rest that I forgot costs. Margins on bikes are tiny.
  • 2 9
flag bikecustomizer (Dec 22, 2014 at 13:04) (Below Threshold)
 Great idea!
I didn't know what to do really until your suggestion - thanks!
I will not.
Smile ))))

And no, it is not a good price.
Did you bought it already ?
Anyone else ?
I see only MINUSES on my comments(WONDER WHY ?), but noone still can't afford it.
  • 3 3
 >Don't like how much bikes cost these days? Don't buy one.

It's like a "can't stand the comment - don't read it, don't write an answer"
  • 2 0
 @bikecustomizer - are you saying there shouldn't be $5,000 bikes, or are you saying that while there might be justification for $5,000 bikes, this bike is not one of those bikes?

If the former - where do you think is the cutoff? Should there be some sort of law mandating that nobody is allowed to offer such a bike, or that nobody is allowed to buy one? If the latter - what about this particular bike makes it less worthy than other bikes with similar spec that are finding willing customers buying them (and enough of them for new models in this spec/price range to keep being brought to market)?

I'd genuinely like to know why you are so passionate about this - what are all the rest of us missing? Are we just horribly insecure sheep believing any bit of BS the industry feeds us and being suckers by buying overpriced kit? Is there perhaps some conspiracy that allows bike manufacturers and stores to mark up bikes with impunity by drugging us all? Seriously - what's your beef?
  • 2 4
 Heh Smile
>"are you saying there shouldn't be $5,000 bikes, ***OR*** are you saying that while there might be justification for $5,000 bikes, this bike is not one of those bikes?"
Why "OR" ? Smile
I'd say "AND".

Lets look from the otherside: and why not a $20000 ?
Are you telling me there shouldn't be $20000 bikes ?
Why the hell this bike is priced $4500 and not $20000, $100000 ?
( I know, you ? Wink )
Any price always could be justified..."oh, so much years of DEEEEEP research..." and so on.
...10 years they refined bicycle suspension....that's why I must pay $10000 for frameset. Oh, dear, huge LOL.
Madness.
What about a bread ? Why not to set the price for it at $1000 for 1pc ? Indeed it is essential important product!

I'm saying that there is a LIGHT BICYLCE carbon rims and there is ENVE and etc.
You know the prices.
And the capabilities are damn equal. Or are you saying that LB carbon is worse ? LOL
So it is possible to make it and sell by 3 times lower price...hmmmmm....
  • 2 3
 The same is with bikes, frames.
These huge prices are just driven up the numbers, nothing more.
There is no any nano-tec innovations, it is a simple device, it is SERIAL PRODUCTION, no hand-made in here, CNC machines everywhere.
Alluminum is cheap like shit really, especially if to buy big quantities for big series.
...they even still can't create an alloy hard as 7075T6 with fine welding/forming capabilities while taking such a big money for the simple mechanic device made from shit-soft alloy!
Where these all money from their sales gone ? Seems like not on DEEP research.

Also the truth if you have a lot of money you can afford it.
But when kid or student or just a man will be able to affrod it ?
So this all leads to bike-elitism.

Passionate on what ? Why do you think so?
I'd like to know why do you defending that prices. Can you afford it ? Did you already bought it ?

>"Are we just horribly insecure sheep believing any bit of BS ..."
There is a bit of truth in you words. But that "WE"...who do you mean besides you ?

Seriously, why so huge prices on bikes ?
  • 1 0
 Just because this bike costs $4,500 doesn't mean there aren't more affordable bikes out there... In fact, relative to 20 years ago, modern bikes are a bargain given how much better they are.
Mountain biking has always been an expensive sport, and always will be. If you don't have the money, that's a shame, but quit complaining and either buy a cheaper bike (there are plenty to choose from, mine cost nowhere near this much and is awesome), or pick another sport.

Are you an engineer? Do you work in the cycling industry? Do you even know anything about it?
  • 4 0
 Your sound like a 12 year old who is just learning how to troll. How about you head on over the the forums and b**** about bike prices there m'kay?
  • 3 1
 @bikecustomizer - the only way your theory (of the huge prices being artificially driven up) could hold is if manufacturers had either the ability to make us all believe a bunch of BS (so we'd happily overpay for the expensive stuff over equally good cheaper alternatives) or if they had monopoly power (i.e., competitors can't get into the market). Given that there are more than just a handful of companies making frames, and quite a few companies making components, the conspiracy angle seems unlikely. If they did, however, manage to sell things at huge markups, you'd think they'be hugely profitable businesses. Being public companies for the most part (at least the big players) who have to publish their audited financials, we can pretty conclusively rule that out.

Unlike electronics (where miniaturization has led to huge gains in performance at same or lower cost), the physics of bikes don't lend themselves to quantum leaps. Your rant that these are simple mechanic devices just doesn't hold up - the precision in a modern drivetrain, along with the low weight but high strength required, and all of that built to still function smoothly when we ride it through nasty mud or dust, requires a level of quality that is not cheap to produce. If you want cheap drivetrains, you can find those on Walmart bikes - but they will not stand up to the rigors of actual mountain biking.

The reason I think $5k (and even $10k) bikes should have a right to exist is that there are people out there who want them, and who are willing to pay for them. I'm not among them - my bike is considerably less expensive than that. Does the existence of those bikes cause you any harm?
  • 2 0
 Not to mention the fact that because people DO buy these $5k bikes, it allows the tech to filter down into cheaper models in subsequent years, benefitting everybody. It's a win/win situation.
  • 10 0
 There might be an artificial element to pricing, after all, money is not real. Value depends on demand. The componentry on this bike has a combined demand within a certain category of price agreed upon by all of us. We agree on the value of the patents they had to buy the rights to use, we agree upon the value of the time of the designers, we agree upon the cost of the commercials.

We agree that the number of ads on this sight is fair for the value we receive. if we didn't we wouldn't be here.
Likewise, enough people agree to the value of this class of bikes, or it would not get developed. Bikes would top out at a lower value. the patents would not get bought, the engineers would not get hired the bikes would not exist. Art develops when people agree that it has enough value to exist. When we can't afford to support art it does not exist. It has happened various times in western history. the best known time was the dark ages. It is happening now in large parts of the middle east, africa, and elsewhere in the world.

You believe it is inflated value. If this is true there will be no market. It will not sell. it will disappear. That is the reason Honda's gearbox bike was never sold. they thought about it and decided they couldn't sell it within the acceptable price range for the market. Demand is the cause. This bike is the effect.
If the day comes that these bikes are valued so highly they are seen, not as a toy, but as a necessity then they will become ubiquitous like the car and the tech will reach levels we have not guessed. For now though the high end drives the market forward, making bikes get amazing. My 2014 remedy 7 came with spec that make by 2010 DB mission look like crap. My mission's msrp was $500 higher. Things are better. Be happy. It is the good side of capitalism. The bad side is the poverty and the war and hatred. this bike contributes to none of that.
  • 1 0
 You put that better than I did, well said.
  • 1 1
 @ sam264

For $4500 I can buy 3DCNC router and do small machining bussiness, for example making chainrings.
with 0.01mm final precision.
Add a 1500 and you have 4th rotational coordinate on it.
Fro $8000-9000 - CNC router will be precise as hell about 0.005mm

I already told, for 2000 one can buy ZERODE frame in excellent condition which is a lot better. And so on.

@g-42 > "the only way your theory (of the huge prices being artificially driven up) could hold is if manufacturers had either the ability to make us all believe a bunch of BS."
Wrong. It is only your beleif this is "the only way". There are so many ways you even could not notice.
And it is you start talking about conspiracy.
Enough already saying about Wallmart: I talk about the REASONABLE PRICES, QUALITY, not the extreme cheap-because-crap.

The production process is built and adjusted a long ago.
Same CNC machines works on newest 2015 NW rings and cranks(or other staff) that they were on 2014, 2013, 2012... making that years models.
Same about frames and so on. One mould is used for many frames.
It is machine's work.
But the price for newest this year things is a lot higher than on NEW last year thing.

And yes, bikes are indeed simple mechanisms.
Look inside the car's automatic gearbox and you'll feel the difference.

>The reason I think $5k (and even $10k) bikes should have a right to exist is that there are people out there who want them, and who are willing to pay for them.
Wrong.
The reason is not in people just want them, but just because THAT people have a lot of money.
And as Taletotell said, "money is not real." - good short words.
I want it. I can't afford it.
But when I will have 4500-8000, I will buy precise CNC router for my bussiness, not a bike only just for fun.
  • 1 1
 @taletotell
>You believe it is inflated value.
Yep, it is inflated. Look after a couple of years on it's price. Especially in dealers.
I bought new 2013 Manitou Tower Pro in late 2013 for $280 shipped when the prices were $500 ebay and $700-800 in other countries.
It is not common, but it is happend! It happend to me many times and still continues.
What else arguments are needed ?

>If this is true there will be no market. It will not sell. it will disappear.
Wrong. There are many better and cheaper bikes then this. But it will sell nevermind virtally what price to set - MONEY IS NOT REAL.

I don't know about Honda gearbox bike, but I know ZERODE gearbox is selling well nevermind the price is also very high.
The price will drop after some years. Same stuff, why the price is lower ? Why it was so high ?
Then they will come up with new model and the current will be discontinued.
And the new one will be again for 3500-4000 dropping every year.
Seems Honda just didn't make a correct advertising/marketing.

You say demand is the cause, heh, If you don't know the demand is manageable and controlled.
Are you demanding things that you never saw and can't even imagine and that not exist?
Show me someone.

People don't know what to demand until you show it for them.
In other wods people demand what they already know(see, listen, imagine).

>Things are better. Be happy. It is the good side of capitalism. The bad side is the poverty and the war and hatred. this bike contributes to none of that.
Yep, I agree. Bikes are good.
I have no influence on all that prices.
But I beleive the things can be made better. And the prices can be made affordable.

Still no one of you guys can afford it and not going to buy it while writing justifying teories about capitalism Smile
  • 1 1
 Just want to add a little:
@taletotell
>Likewise, enough people agree to the value of this class of bikes, or it would not get developed. Bikes would top out at a lower value. the patents would not get >bought, the engineers would not get hired the bikes would not exist.

Are you saying all developing is just because of paying a high sallaries to CAD/CAM developers, engineers and artists ???
Just because of paying money ???
Wrong!
The all the developing is just because of human creative nature.
So it would develop.
Just some people would less or no spend energy(money and time) to an excessive and really unnecessary things like too much traveling, ride yachts, buy more estate,the night clubs, drinks, girls, gold and so on.
  • 3 2
 You are a little naïve about what drives yourself and others.
If what you said is true then the creative nature of humans must just have happened to have begun around the same money developed, because human beings walked the earth making almost no significant developments for milenia. Then money facilitated trade and innovation boomed.
It isn't all about money. After all, it is that same silly desire to have the bike so good you can't even take advantage of it that drives engineers to create better things. The prestige of making or owning better things goes back to primal roots. We want to rank higher in the tribe. It isn't about use, but the sense of satisfaction from having better things than our neighbors, from showing we are smarter, from showing we are faster and stronger, capable of producing better offspring. Check Facebook and you will see the proof. We all are competing. Bikes are just one playing field. We want to belong to a tribe and we want to rank high in that same tribe. "Look at me. I am a biker. I belong on PB. I also know about technical stuff, I'm no nube. Also I can bar turn off drops. I am not a joey. I belong and deserve a place of respect." Under it all that is what we all are saying, whether we realize it or not. The reason people get so worked up over new bikes is because they feel less secure in their place in the pack when suddenly people can demonstrate more wealth and have fancier bikes, moving the rest of us down in comparison. So we say "don't believe the hype. They aren't better than us. We are just too smart to buy that stuff." Then we all signnup for free stuff and donate five dollars to try to win bikes we say are dumb.
  • 1 1
 @bikecustomiser,
you don't want to use a CNC router, buddy. Not enough torque/power in the spindle, you need a CNC mill Wink I know what a cnc mill/router costs. You won't get an industrial level cnc mill for $4,500. You just won't. Aside from that, you can't machine a bike frame with one (well you could, but it would be VERY expensive, and shite too).

Even if this were the case, in order to mass produce such a frame (note that they probably DO NOT use a CNC router for any part of the frame except the pivot axles and the dropouts), you're forgetting R&D, design, marketing, HR, manufacturing, distribution, and the rest.

long story short. You're an idiot.

Also, why are you comparing a frame only zerode DH frame to a full build Felt enduro bike?
  • 1 1
 @sam264
Firstly, so you saying there was no bikes or cars when there was no CNC mills ?

I do want it, beleive me. And I mean 3D- 4D router.

But where or when did I say I'm going use CNC router for machining the frames or bikeparts?
Why the hell it's must be only biking everywere ? Smile
I said FOR MY BUSSINESS, my current business, it is not connected with bikeparts now.
You don't need an industrial CNC mill - it is for big quantities and huge loads.
Seems like you don't know many companies started from small shops.

You are exoteric really, seems like you just biking, have fun, use what you buying and not capable of doing something by yourself.

Also the matter is not in the spindle, because HSP method is used, when router bit takes off a small amount of material while moves very quickly,
resulting in much accurate and a lot faster production. But if you want more power choose other spindle for your router.

It is not the spindle where you must concern about the "Not enough torque/power" it is linear motion systems, their precision and power of servo motor or step motor.
But excuse me, what are you going to work out ? Alloy or hardened steel ?
Even the steel in most cases is machined in drop state then it a heat treatment used.
The 7075T6 alloy is machined by carbide router bit just very well.
Additionally, there are so many fine servo motors nowadays with a huge power potential and high precision.
So what you said is not a problem at all.
  • 1 1
 @sam264
For sure CNC router you can get for 4500(for 8000-9000 it will have yet larger workin area 60cmx90cm and higher precision) and it will be capable of machinibg alloy, brass, and even stainless steel. Not even talking about the woods, plastics.
So hubshells, axles, chainrings, small parts - are welcome. Even the crankarms (alloy part).
Of course it is not enough to have only one CNC router. But I didn't say it is enough.
There are many different high power spindles also. If you want, add money and buy Colombo spindle or other in future.

If I'm idiot then who are you, creature ?
f*ck off.

You read carefully, then you will have no stupid questions or at least less of them.
I said one could assemble the much better bike buying Zerode frame used for ~2000 and for the rest 2500 buy other needed components.
I will not list all of the possibilities here, especially for such rude smallminded persons like you.
Zerode is just one of the possibilities.
Why I pointed it is just it is obviously has much more work in it and much more interesting and better.
  • 2 0
 The real question is whether you can build a comparable bike for the same price. If you could build a pinion kitted like this then there would be no reason to not do it as far as I am concerned. If you could build a Bronson that is kitted like this for this then you are right, it is not a good deal. Also it has to be new parts. This bike used will cost less than your zerode or anything like it.
  • 1 0
 Why are you talking about buying a CNC router then? It has nothing to do with this article or the relative cost of a bike! I was talking about bikes because this is a BIKE website, and we were speaking about the cost of a BIKE. What does the cost of a CNC router have to do with that unless you're using it to make a bike?

I'm very capable of making things myself - I have, and do. I don't feel the need to prove myself to you though.

And a Zerode isn't comparable, they're not even similar, so to compare the two makes no sense. As for "more work in it", "more interesting" and "better". 1. you don't know that, and the rest are your opinions. Feel free to share them, please don't spread them like they're gospel though. They're not.

Stop chatting such rubbish please.
  • 2 0
 I would say the reach is a more important measurement than top tube. Reach combined with chainstay length have the main effect on handling when you're out of the saddle and really having fun. That said, I will not consider a 27.5 bike till somebody gets the chainstay length down to 420 mm.
  • 3 0
 Check out the Orbea Rallon (420mm) or Specialized Enduro (422mm)
  • 2 0
 Having the same issue with my 8 month old XO1 derailleur in the lower gears and have been reading I'm not the only one.
Please keep us posted on SRAM's reply.
I'm tired of my "happy medium" shifting when my SLX 10 spd was leaps and bounds better.
  • 1 0
 I'm 5'11". According to their sizing chart and what I feel is right with their TT/reach/stack measurements I should be on the 20" frame. Heck, even a 19" is too tall for me with a dropper post.

Who would be tall enough to run the dropper on the 20" frame at minimum insertion and still be happy with a 435mm reach? Nobody. So why isn't the frame lower?
  • 8 2
 The reach/ST length relation is a problem for most bikes in the industry. Very few companies got it like Yeti or Mondraker. It is retarded to make Reach increase by barely an inch per size, while seat tube goes up by 2-2,5". I would like to see two lads who are 175cm and 185cm tall (which is the case for most M and L frame sizing guidelines) who have over 5cm difference in seam. What is the problem with using longer seat posts, we have shit loads of them to chose from? Chris Porter from Mojo who fancies quite bizarre geometries pointed it out quite nicely.
  • 1 4
 I am.
I'm 182cm only.
Ride 19"( 480mm=18.89", 19"=482mm ) frame rated as L. The reach is also about 435-440mm
There is additional 18cm of I-beam seatpost from the end of seattube to the beginning of the clamp which is about 4cm high yet, then goes the saddle's I-beam which is yet more 3-4cm.
So it is additional 26cm to the saddle top form the seattube end.
74cm from top of the saddle to center of the BB.
My cranks are 175mm
Well, it is about 91.5cm to the pedal...And I'm fine on it.

I have one bike. I need to ride to the park through the part of the city. So this is for kinda casual sitting riding.
While if to drop a little it appears already uncomfortable because my legs are not strightened as I fell it should be during pedaling.
For everything else (when I'm in park, on trails )I drop it a couple of cm, for jumps and so just drop the saddle to the frame.

Seems for me I may need even 20" frame with yet longer top tube(base) or may be slightly slacker angle(or longer travel fork).
However, still I'm fine on the current set up.

And I thought about dropper post, not expensive, with about 150mm of travel.

Shown in the table is L 485mm but it is 19.09" not a 20"
And XL 540mm=21.25" which is never 22"

I think it's ok geometry.
I don't think so about the price Smile
  • 2 0
 at 5'9" I ride medium usually, but my trek is 19.5, and ti is perfect. Sizing is a weird thing across brands.
  • 2 0
 I'd say, Kona and Yeti got that really right while Santa Cruz got it really wrong. This Felt is on the edge of being ok. I'd still put like 80 stem with Renthals on Large
  • 1 1
 @WAKIdesigns @bikecustomizer here's a chance to test Waki's theory(not that a sample size of 2 proves anything, but still.) I'm 173cm, have a 76cm (30") inseam. I normally ride a medium, but like RC says, I usually feel like I fit between sizes(which is why I'm not including the measurements on my bike: they're probably not ideal.) bikecustomizer, what's your inseam?
  • 1 0
 The point of my post was the relation reach and seat tube length. I went one opinion and theory too far. i am so sorry
  • 1 0
 @ArgAde I test rode a 20" (Large), and was able to get the saddle down enough so it was 8 mm higher than my saddle height. That size put me in more of an XC bike position; comfortable, but not what I want for my AM bike. I'd try a medium with a 150 mm drop post.
  • 1 1
 That aside @WAKIdesigns I'm still curious how much longer his legs are than mine. More info is never a bad thing. I know guys who have 8" on me who only have 3" inseam difference to mine.
  • 1 3
 @groghunter,
measured, it is 87cm, ( eggs to the leftside Smile )))) )
+ the sole about 2-3cm and we have about 90cm.

@WAKI,
+1
I also really don't see any issue to use long seatpost dropper or not, whatever.

Hey, isn't these wrong inched dimensions similar to the inched wheel size dimensions chaos ?!
  • 1 1
 Wow, that means you actually have a 2cm shorter torso than me(or my measurements are off: I was just going by what size pants I buy.) That probably the nubbin of the matter, however: people are not universally proportional. That guy I know who has 8" on me? he's only one shoe size bigger, but probably 3 wider (in shoes that actually come in widths.)

Only problem with a longer post or dropper on this bike is that slack seattube angle is going to put the seat way too far back, considering people that it fit well in the review were having to slide the seat forward.
  • 2 2
 Why ?
I'm about 182 and you 173

Of course people are different. Who ever invented that "universality"...oh dear...
Seems like again as usual: just for serial production bussiness.

>s going to put the seat way too far back
!!! oh man, I tend to put the SDG I-beam Air to the dead back and slightly narrow-end-up to be in comfort pedaling pos.
And it is not only on this bike.(I have another in my parents town, also L )
If to put the saddle to the front in the mid pos of seatpostclamp I will want to even take seatpost upper a few cm.
But it will not be as comfortable as seat on the deadback.
  • 1 1
 You're right on the difference in our sizes, I was reading numbers backwards. :/

Sounds like you'd have to try this bike then, but it might be a good candidate for you. my current bike, especially at 30% sag, sends the seat so far back that it gives me back pain, so I'm really critical of slack seat tubes. A steeper seat tube is one of my key desires for my next bike.
  • 1 1
 Heh Smile I wish I would but the price makes it UNREAL for me. Smile
  • 1 1
 Not sure if they do frame sales, but the Compulsion 50 is $2700. which is a pretty amazing for what you get, especially if you can sneak in on some year end sales come August/September.
  • 1 1
 Ahaha Smile ))
Man, 2700.... Smile
I'd better buy Zerode G2 frame used in buy-sell.
  • 2 1
 Can't argue, all my bikes are used or bought on serious discount. & usually in bits & pieces, as I can't afford it all at once.
  • 2 0
 Me too totally.
That's why my nickname is "bikecustomizer" Smile )))

Recently got 2x26" (one never used, one almost new) Wtb frequency i25 and 2x26" (one almost new, one little crack on bead wall)Light Bicycle CARBON FR/DH OD 30mm ID 23mm rims... all 4 rims for $150 shipped.
That's what I call THE GOOD PRICES.

(Huge thanks to the seller!)
  • 1 0
 Sure people are different, but no1 - Santa Cruz (and few more) still makes bikes in lengths that provide good actual reach (BB>grips) for bikes with stems 80-100mm long. My Blur TRc has 615TT in Large and that feels kind of alright (I'd still like 630-640) with 60mm stem + 7deg backsweep 740 Renthals (don't forget that the way stem length minus bars sweep influences the characteristics of handling when turning bars, so actual reach is not everything ). But the seat tube height is barely acceptable for 380mm 100 travel Reverb. I have 3mm left from seat collar to Reverb Collar. Sure we like different things and we adapt to literally ANYTHING, but most brands have run they reach similar to times from before wide bars came along.
  • 1 0
 Yep, interesting...
And I gone from 90mm stem to 70mm then to only 40mm(30mm seems would be even better), 9 degree backsweep 710mm 3" riser bar.
...I definitely need 180-200mm travel fork. But lightweight.
  • 1 1
 Agreed, as it sounds like their recommended sizing would be put you a size down from what you're running now, at least WRT seat tube. I'm in the same boat, had to get a 100mm dropper because I'd have been too tall, or maybe just make it with the collar slammed, on a 125mm.

Another standard I predict changing in the next few years is seat tubes: if people want 200mm droppers(which they do & should, if they're over 6' 2") then we're gonna need bigger seat tubes, in order to accommodate larger dropper stanchions(just like we user bigger stanchions on longer travel forks.)

I could see 35mm ID becoming common, as that should allow 32mm dropper stanchions.
  • 2 0
 But Stanchions diameter will never give as good support as bushing spacing. It may increase the lifespan though, especially for frame designs with slack seat tube angle, due to making place for the lots of travel for the big wheel.
  • 1 1
 It's the lifespan, & the need for a stronger structure to push droppers past 150mm, that I see causing the change.
  • 1 0
 I'd never buy Felt again after the poor quality of the frame I had. Downtube crumpled in the slowest crash ever. On inspection I found that the headtube was ovalised from the factory (left to right!) and the customer service was shocking. I had to wait months for a front triangle I had to pay retail for. UTTER SHITE.
  • 1 0
 The Equilink has always been pretty "meh" in my opinion. Used to work at a Felt dealer, and I was never very impressed by the general function of the design, on both their 4" and 5" platforms.
  • 1 0
 Zink didnt have problems with it killing the red bull rampage back 09 . Send the felt redemption so big for several years
  • 6 0
 Ah, so my assessment of their marathon and trail bikes should be put up against the test of Cam Zink and the Redbull Rampage?

I guess Equilink is awesome, afterall. My bad.
  • 2 0
 I'm with you phobospwns. I had an '07 virtue and it pedaled reasonably well, but wasn't plush in the least, felt like it had 3" of travel rather than 5", and had pivot bolts that would back out all the time. It also creaked like a bicth. It's a good suspension design for those that like over-complication with their frequent maintenance.
  • 2 0
 I've never had an issue with KS Lev. The reverb, however... more money and alot more problems IMHO.
  • 4 1
 That's one healthy looking chain... Smile
  • 3 0
 what, no 6 bar linkage comments yet?
  • 2 0
 While it may perform OK, aesthetically it looks like it was designed with a crayon on a napkin at Denny's.
  • 1 0
 And then executed drunk in one of their garages. 30 years ago this would have been a nice bike, but in a world with hydro and air forming aluminum, that thing looks hacked together.
  • 1 0
 Don't the rear brake hose rubs on frame/links?
If so it will manage to eat trough aluminum quite fast. Been here, seen that.
  • 1 0
 Ugly looking rear triangle. Makes my Orange look sleek which is saying something!
  • 2 0
 Hauling ass bike review photo: check.
  • 3 5
 So nice to see another proper metal bike being reviewed again rather than another cloth and glue one, well done for that. Hoqever, I have to say as nice as this bike is there are better value options out there with the same or similar spec. Whyte G150/T130 range, Nukeproof Mega/Trail for example. Also these companies need to drop the KS seat post as OEM. Always seems they are nothing but trouble.
  • 3 0
 i have a G150, super nice bike and the new T130 looks pretty sick
  • 2 0
 Yeah I've got the new G150s and for £2700 it's an amazing bike. Pikes, Guides, 1x11, Reverb Stealth. Etc.
  • 1 0
 i have the 2014 G150 but my dad has the 2015 G150 and it's looks and feels so sick!
  • 2 1
 Having worked with Whyte, I've always found them a little more XC orientated than 'Enduro', but theyre nice bikes! Something I wouldn't trust about them though, on the really gnar stuff. My previous bike was a 2013 mega TR, that thing looked like it could handle itself in a pub fight.
  • 2 0
 Wait… whats going on? I didn't read anything about carbon or Enduro in this article.
Great job FELT, sick bike and price!
  • 1 0
 I was talking about the Whtye bikes stated by Heaney and Matt76 etc, this bike looks great, looks like the transition.
  • 1 0
 I have to agree with you except on the KS issue. Having blown through 2 reverbs I am pretty happy with my KS dropper.
  • 1 0
 the ks post has other problems- the clamp assembly is pretty fragile, i've broken 2 of them. and replacing those broken bits requires a total disassembly. such a pain in the balls. mine will be going on my junk bike soon. think i'm getting a thomson...
  • 2 0
 Have you tried a Thomson yet? They are the smoothest dropper posts ive ever had a play with. Deffo seems like a great option.
  • 1 0
 jdotr I agree with you partly as I had a T129 and if definitely had its limitations. My new G150s is the bomb and a totally different bike you can belt it through the rough stuff without a worry. I run out of talent before the bike runs out of capabilities thats for sure!
  • 1 0
 hey matt76, no haven't tried the thomson dropper. owned stems and posts made by them in the past-solid stuff. read mostly positive reviews-some niggles about the ergonomics of the lever. i have a reverb on one of my rides, i mostly like it. however, i'm running 2x10 on this bike, and the reverb lever doesn't play so nice with front shifters. anyway, glad you're stoked about the thomson, i'll probably break the ks one more time before i make a decision (i have spare parts for one more rebuild). cheers!
  • 1 0
 Thats cool to know Matt76, I've not ridden it but if i were to go with a whyte it would be the g150s.
  • 1 0
 "Comes with 42 offset pike option. .."-isn't giant the only comp to spec the 44 offset(or is it 46?)
  • 1 1
 Felt, I applause you. More companies need to focus their all mountain bikes around suspension design that climbs nimble, but is smooth down with aggressive geometry.
  • 1 0
 Nice to see Felt making a go at a good AM bike. They're old FS bikes never seemed like they wanted to get dirty.
  • 1 0
 I own TWO felt compulsions. BIKE IS VERSATILE ! Rips XC,DH, DIRT JUMPS, ENDURO, Bike Sends it big no problem !!
  • 2 0
 NICE
  • 2 1
 Should have named it " The Infinity Pivot"
  • 1 0
 About time Felt got their bigger bikes sorted. Welcome back!
  • 1 0
 A mobile friendly version!!! Yay!!!
  • 1 1
 Weird strut behind seat tube and a flat bar? UNRIDEABLE (by anyone except robots obvs)
  • 6 0
 Thanks.
  • 1 0
 So does the Equilibrium work or not? Tell us the truth. Lol.
  • 1 0
 @team-robot I heard this bike sucks?
  • 3 0
 I don't think it sucks.
  • 1 0
 Well of course not, Robots can ride anything fast. Tell us how you really feel?
  • 2 0
 My Compulsion 7 is the best mountain bike Felt's ever made. Not perfect, but really good.
  • 1 0
 Looks AMAZING!!!
  • 1 0
 Do you mean 6061?
  • 1 1
 Not a fan of that rear end aesthetically, looks like an after thought
  • 3 3
 that vertical brace thing looks like something off a Stab Supreme circa 2007. Nooo!

sorry, in pinkbikespeak, "2007 called they want their Kona Stab back..."
  • 2 0
 It looks like a bit of a clusterfuck compared to the front triangle, but I don't think.it looks bad at all. In my expert opinion.
  • 2 0
 Or you could say it looks like there own bike circa 2007.
  • 1 0
 sorry its an equilink column
  • 1 0
 Not sure what you mean Finger, but Felt had that link back in 2007, so saying the 2015 bike looks like a 2007 Kona is pretty far off the mark.
  • 1 0
 no worries, Im not up on Felt MTBs to be honest. Although I've got a Felt F85 roadbike and love it Smile
  • 2 1
 dear santa
  • 1 0
 SB6c review soon???
  • 1 0
 Batman or Feltman?!
  • 1 2
 This looks like a 2014 Remedy/Slash with Felt painted on it.
  • 4 0
 Except for the frame maybe. And the parts.
  • 1 2
 The rear triangle is different, but the front triangle is almost identical. Also, the equilink column is basically working to give a full floater feel without directly copying trek's rear suspension. It's not an exact copy, but it's not far from it.
  • 3 0
 What the heck is "a full floater feel"? The rear shocks are mounted completely differently (floating vs fixed), and the rear suspension design is completely different (dw link vs abp single pivot). And the front triangles look similar because they're triangles - unless you get swoopy tubes, they're gonna look similar.

Anyway, I'm just bustin' yer balls. All AM bikes are fairly similar looking. Have a merry Christmas!
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