Niner

RLT 9 2-Star Apex 1 Complete Bike - 2018

The Niner RLT 9 has created quite a stir in the burgeoning gravel and bike packing scene. After all, it is a purpose built machine capable of tacling epic race courses and week-long bike tours all at a price that won't have you scratching your head. The RLT 9 2-Star Apex 1 Complete Bike wants to be your companion on adventures and the Road Less Traveled mantra is certainly exemplified in this build. SRAM's value packed Apex 1x drivetrain eschews the front derailleur bringing simplicity to gear ratios and prevents any mechanical headaches that can often occur with front shifting. A 42-tooth front chainring and 11-42 tooth cassette offer plenty of range for getting up the longest summits or if you are loaded down with gear. The 35mm tires roll with a quickness on pavement and you'll be surprised how well they'll tackle light singletrack too. Should you stick strictly to off-road riding or if you need the extra flotation, the frame has clearance for up to 44mm tires.

The frame's geometry is all monster cross and blends Niner's mountain frame numbers with the quick and nimble attributes of the CX BSB frameset. Compared to the BSB, the RLT 9 features longer chainstays, more bottom bracket drop, and a slacker head tube angle. This lowers the center of gravity and provides a more stable ride at speed and over rough terrain. The longer wheelbase brings comfort and keeps the bike on track even when exhaustion has kicked in. Over washboard braking bumps, the frame doesn't get bucked off line and even slicing through mellow singletrack, the RLT's handling traits will have you grinning from ear to ear. Settle into a headwind and let the aluminum frame's efficiency get you through it knowing that you'll have the confidence and adept handling to maintain a high speed once the wind is at your back.

The RLT 9 does rock a Carbon RDO fork up front to mute vibrations and drop some weight. The fork is based off of the famous Niner mountain bike rigid fork as evidence of 15mm thru-axle, but the rake is set for the RLT and its intended use. The inclusion of rack mounts means adventures abound and you'll quickly add to your library of topo maps as you and your new RLT explore off the beaten path.