Niner

RLT 4-Star Complete Bike - 2014

Whether you’re a dirt road adventurer, 'cross dabbler, or looking for some training when the trails are muddy, the Niner RLT 4-Star Complete Road Bike has you covered. Niner isn’t exactly known for following trends, so it’s no surprise that the RLT sits in between many of the emerging niche road categories. It’s dressed in a top-tier build kit, so feel free to race it, whether it’s on the road, or around a grass track. Or if you prefer, just log some base miles to stay strong while you wait for the trails to dry out. Any way you split it, the RLT all but guarantees a good time in the saddle.

If you’re looking at the RLT and getting déjà vu, don’t worry, it may be because the tubeset borrows heavily from the one used on Niner’s aluminum AIR 9 frame. The tapered head tube accommodates a matching tapered fork, which is unsurprisingly similar to Niner’s beloved RDO mountain fork. Forged 135x9mm dropouts provide a solid mount for the rear wheel, with a post-style brake mount that accommodates a 140mm rotor, or a 160mm option with an adapter. The dropouts have integrated rack and fender mounts, which only add to your setup options. The burly replaceable hanger means that even if a catastrophic derailleur-related incident ends your ride, your RLT will live to roll another day.

The hydroformed tubes are designed to neutralize chatter, helping the RLT to maintain a smooth ride. Additionally, it makes the frame much stronger than it would be had round tubes been employed. And to enhance the smooth ride, the RLT has a 27.2mm diameter seat tube. The smaller diameter makes for a more forgiving post, especially when combined with the included carbon fiber post, which is designed with a greater degree of flex than most of its competitors. That means that you won’t be getting beat up as much as you’d expect, especially on washboard roads.

The 4-Star build consists of a full SRAM Force 22 build kit, with the exception of the ultra-reliable BB7 Road mechanical disc brakes. Niner supplies the tapered carbon fiber fork, alloy handlebar, alloy stem, and Niner carbon fiber seatpost. It rolls on Stan’s NoTubes ZTR Iron Cross rims laced to 3.30 disc hubs — a combo that’s proven its worth both in terms of being lightweight and highly durable. And Schwalbe supplies the tires, with the Sammy Slick 700x35 keeping you rolling regardless of road conditions. Naturally, there’s room for bigger tires should your riding warrant it, and it’ll also accommodate smaller, faster rolling rubber if you prefer.

The Niner RLT 9 4-Star Complete Road Bike is available in six sizes, from 47cm to 62cm, and in the colors Industry Grey and Mint.

READ OUR REVIEW