Ibis

Ripmo Mountain Bike Frame

Fortunately for us, the Ripmo V2 is finally here, giving riders the increased capability of the Ripmo AF, but with a carbon frame that saves roughly 2lb over the aluminum version—all while offering a stiffer chassis that climbs, corners, and charges harder. Like the Ripmo, the Ripmo V2 was developed under the rigors of competition, meaning Ibis worked extensively with their professional riders to ensure the new bike meets the increasing demands of modern enduro courses.

The new recipe starts with a more progressive shock rate that ramps up near the end of the stroke, preventing harsh bottom-outs when you're charging through rock gardens and airing over drops. At the same time, the initial stroke is suppler to improve small-bump sensitivity and smooth out chattery sections of trail. The reach extends to a 475mm on a size large on the V2 with a 64.9-degree head tube angle to provide high-speed stability, without sacrificing the lively handling and precise cornering the Ripmo is known for.

Considering that most of us have to earn our turns, Ibis gives the Ripmo V2 the same uncanny climbing abilities as its predecessor. A lot of this has to do with the ultra-efficient DW-Link suspension platform, but a big part is the steep 76-degree seat tube angle that shifts your weight forward in the saddle. On the Ripmo V2 Ibis sticks with their esteemed DW-Link suspension due to its firm pedaling platform and smooth feel over rough terrain. Ibis did modify the suspension tune though, incorporating the Traction Tune philosophy that first debuted on the Mojo HD5. Traction Tune uses extra-light damping in the high-speed compression and rebound circuits, which allows the wheels to react more quickly to changes in terrain for smoother bump absorption and glued-to-the-ground traction.

There's 2.6in tire clearance, internal cable routing, clearance for a full-size bottle, coil shock compatibility, and the ability to run a 175-millimeter or longer dropper post on the medium through extra-large frames (small works with 150-millimeter droppers).