Niner

RIP 9 1-Star Complete Mountian Bike - 2013

Not only does Niner have the 29er mountain bike sectioned into every possible style from hardtails to full suspension rides, but it also offers them in steel, aluminum, and carbon. No other manufacturer can claim to have so many models and variations rolling on wagon wheels. And one piece of the Niner puzzle is the all-mountain, alloy, and 120mm-travel R.I.P. 9 1-Star Complete Mountain Bike.

Sporting longer travel then the cross-country focused Jet 9, the Niner R.I.P. 9 treats you with more composure when the trail gets unruly. By combining Niner’s CVA, twenty-niner-specific suspension design with extensive hydrofoming, forging, and CNC machining, the R.I.P. 9 keeps weight on the lighter side. And together, these manufacturing methods provide a plush and efficient ride quality for every variety of trail.

When Niner designed its Constantly Varying Arc (CVA) suspension system to complement 29ers, it didn't adapt an existing 26 inch-wheeled platform. This meant that Niner was able to tweak the links and pivots in order to enhance the ride of big wheels. It placed extra stiff forged aluminum links in positions that isolated pedaling forces, while remaining fully active under all conditions. And because the lower link sits below the bottom bracket, and the CVA’s instant center is located in a virtual position ahead of the drivetrain, chain tension at the rear axle pulls the two linkages in opposite directions. This system effectively isolates the drivetrain from the rear triangle. So, when you press on the pedals, nothing's lost to compressing the suspension. Additionally, you won’t suffer any kickback from chainstay growth when you're pedaling through rock gardens.

Another key feature of the CVA is its low ratio of shock stroke to suspension movement. This decreases the amount of preload needed, which translates into smooth, effective damping and less drag on the seals. The R.I.P. 9 gets 4.5 inches of suspension travel out of the CVA design, and with its efficient power transfer, highly active nature, and plush travel, the R.I.P. 9 will easily crest difficult ascents, negotiate tight switchbacks, and provide eager handling. Niner specs the R.I.P. with a full complement of sealed cartridge bearings for smooth operation and minimal maintenance.

For the suspension, Niner drops a custom-valved Fox RP23 into the R.I.P. 9 to handle suspension motion and to provide outstanding bump compliance and damping. At the front end of the R.I.P. 9 1-Star build is a 120mm RockShox Sector RL fork. It features the proven dual air spring and Motion Control dampening with rebound and lockout, along with a 15mm Maxel for enhanced trail characteristics.

Driving the rear wheel is a SRAM S1000 crankset with 38/24 chainrings. It spins a 10-speed, PG1030 11-36t cassette with a KMC X10 chain. Gear selection is handled by SRAM X7 shifters, a X7 rear derailleur, and a X5 front. Keeping speed in check is a set of Avid Elixir 1 hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm front and 160mm rear rotors.

This R.I.P. 9 rides on American Classic's Terrain wheels cased in low rolling resistance, 2.35in-wide Schawlbe Nobby Nic tires. This pairing provides the traction and velvety ride quality that's expected of 29ers. Finishing off the Star-1 build is a handful of alloy Niner components like the handlebar, stem, and seatpost that's been paired with a Niner branded WTB Volt Sport saddle.

The Niner R.I.P. 9 Star-1 Complete Mountain Bike is available in the color Raw and four sizes from Small to X-Large.