NINER AIR 9 CARBON/SRAM X0 SINGLE SPEED COMPLETE BIKE

No chainslap, no finicky derailleurs, and no unnecessary gears. Just you, your bike, and the trail. The bliss of single-speed riding is a means to unlock a new dimension on mastered trails and awaken dormant muscles. We handpicked choice components from Easton, SRAM, and Fox to complement what could be considered the ultimate 29er chassis—the Niner Air 9 Carbon.

At the core of every Niner model is extensive computer-based finite element analysis mixed with widespread real-world testing. But this testing isn't just limited to pampered pros. Niner’s computer modeling ninjas spend just as much time in front of the brain box as they do post-work on prototypes for seat-of-the-pants beta. This is true throughout the Niner company and community; input from passionate riders is constantly streamed into developing the next production model.

This commitment to development is clearly evident throughout the curvy Air 9 Carbon. Its foundation is a high modulus carbon fiber structure with optimized weaves, lay ups, and tube shapes to enhance carbon fiber’s natural characteristics. Its fluid form is no accident, and is purpose-designed to dampen chatter and guide impact forces to stronger parts of the frame. Chain torque goes directly to the rear wheel via the reinforced bottom bracket shell and sturdy chainstays, yet trail vibrations are quelled by the swooping seatstays. From the strength- and precision-enhancing tapered headtube to the internal cable routing and titanium scuff protectors, the Air 9 Carbon confidently claims the title of Niner's top dog.

The Air 9 Carbon features Niner’s exclusive Bio-Centric EBB technology that addresses the issues that haunt the otherwise simple nature of single speeds. Eccentric bottom brackets have been plagued with finicky maintenance headaches like constant creaking, ovalized shells, and stripped bolts. An essential design element of the Bio-Centric system is that the cups lock to the bottom bracket shell’s flange, providing 360 degrees of purchase while eliminating any chance for creak-causing dirt or debris to contaminate the interface. Also, because forces are no longer placed against the inside of the shell, it won’t become out of round or suffer from the over-tightening issues of traditional EBB designs.

There are other advantages to the Niner EBB over sliding and track-style drops. One is perfect dropout-to-frame alignment, as there are no difficult-to-adjust, multi-bolt sliders to negatively affect tolerances and add stress to the seat and chainstays. Also, wheel removal and installation and gear changes are effortless because there’s no need to readjust the caliper or slider position.

Niner’s EBB is the simplest, most effective solution to chain tension—and as an added bonus, it’s compatible with Niner’s CYA bottom bracket interface. This enables compatibility with the plethora of new bottom bracket standards, and it means you can easily switch from single-speed to gears. Through the use of CYA press-fit inserts, the Air 9 Carbon can be set up for Shimano or SRAM BB30, Shimano or SRAM BB92, or standard external cups.

We spec’d the Air 9 Carbon with a 100mm Fox Float 29 RLC to match Niner’s respected geometry. The fork offers rebound, compression, and preload adjustments that allow you to tailor ride characteristics to your individual preferences. The fork also has a lockout for climbing. A 15QR thru-axle is essential, and a stiff Easton EA70XC wheelset reinforces this single speed’s dedication to precise handling. Wrapped in Schwalbe Performance Rocket Ron 2.25in tires, these wheels are not single-speed specific—so you can easily switch to a 1x10 drivetrain with minimal investment.

Stopping is handled by the light and powerful SRAM X0 brakes with 160mm rotors. We found the weight, stiffness, and strength of X0 cranks more than adequate, and we called on our friends at Endless Cycles for their excellent cog and spacer kit in a 22-tooth model. Easton EA70 components grace the cockpit from the seatpost to the bars and stem, while contact points are handled by WTB grips and a supportive Sella Italia SL Kit Carbonio saddle.

The Niner Air 9 Carbon/SRAM X0 Single Speed Complete Bike is available in White. It comes in four sizes: Small, Medium, Large, and X-Large.

Air 9 Carbon/SRAM X0 Single Speed Complete Bike Price:  $3599.00