Get ready for a thrilling ride with the new Ibis Ripley SL, a bike that will challenge your perceptions! This lightweight trailblazer might just have you questioning your assumptions.
At first glance, the Ibis Ripley SL could easily be mistaken for an e-bike, with its unique downtube design and contrasting tube diameters. But fear not, adrenaline junkies, it's purely human-powered!
The all-new Ripley SL steps in as Ibis' lightweight trail bike, replacing the Exie. Weighing a mere 5 lbs (2.27 kg) in size XM with a shock, it's a true lightweight champion.
Here's where it gets controversial...
Ibis has stayed true to their roots with the DW-Link suspension platform, opting for dual-link design over the simpler flex-stay layout. This decision, while maintaining Ibis' signature style, might spark debates among enthusiasts.
The Ripley SL, with its marketing emphasizing phrases like "charge hard," aims to offer a bolder riding experience compared to its predecessor, the Exie. It's slightly heavier, but packs an extra 17 mm of travel and a 130 mm fork, making it a force to be reckoned with.
And this is the part most people miss...
Despite the weight penalty associated with its aluminum links and frame storage cutaway, the lightest stock build of the Ripley SL still manages an impressive 25.5 lbs (11.5 kg) in size M. That's lighter than both the Norco Revolver 130 and the Cannondale Scalpel, solidifying its position as a lightweight contender.
The stock builds are equipped with a 130 mm travel fork, four-piston brakes, and a 30 mm rise bar, leaning more towards the downcountry end of the XC/DC spectrum. Ibis offers an XCO-ready option by reducing the fork travel to 120 mm, prioritizing a lower front end for racing.
Ibis has made some clever choices with the Ripley SL's design. The lower link runs on bushings, keeping weight down and increasing rear-end stiffness. The frame also features a remote shock lock-out, although none of the models come equipped with one. However, the Fox Float SL shock is compatible for those who wish to upgrade.
The Ripley SL boasts frame storage and comes with two bags, capable of holding a 7.25-inch pump or two 22 oz water bottles (650 ml) in sizes M-XL, and one 26 oz bottle (770 ml) in the small frame. Cable and hose management is tidy, with a threaded BB and a top guide on the lower link.
Now, let's dive into the geometry...
The Ripley SL is available in five sizes, accommodating riders from 5 ft to 6 ft 7 inches. All sizes share the same swingarm, with small variations in rear-center length (432-440 mm) achieved through changes in pivot locations. This impacts front-to-rear load distribution, but the growth in rear-center is subtle compared to the reach and front-center growth.
Ibis has taken a proportional approach to suspension kinematics, ensuring riders of different heights experience similar pedaling performance. The effective seat tube angles, ranging from 74.25 to 75.25 degrees, are relatively slack for a short-travel bike. In XC mode with a 120 mm fork, the seat angles become slightly steeper, similar to bikes like the Orbea Oiz and Norco Revolver.
So, what's in store for the models?
There are three models to choose from, all featuring a Fox 34 34 SL fork, a 210mm x 50mm Factory Float SL shock, and a Continental Magnotal and Dubnital tire pairing. The maximum tire clearance is 2.4".
The most affordable model is equipped with a SRAM Eagle 90 drivetrain, Blackbird aluminum wheels, SRAM DB8 brakes, and a KS Vantage dropper seat post. Priced at $6,249 USD, it offers a mechanically actuated T-Type drivetrain and adjustable dropper lengths.
Stepping up, the Shimano Deore XT DI2 model retails at $7,799 USD and includes 4-Piston Shimano XT brakes, a carbon handlebar, and a Bike Yoke Revive dropper. This model also offers the option to upgrade to carbon wheels for an additional $850 USD.
Topping the range is the Shimano XTR Di2 model, priced at $11,449 USD. It boasts the 9-45T cassette, a short-cage electronic derailleur, XTR brakes, Blackbird carbon rims, Industry Nine Hydra hubs, and a WTB titanium-railed saddle.
The Ibis Ripley SL is a force to be reckoned with, offering a unique blend of lightweight design, impressive travel, and US-made craftsmanship. It's a bike that will challenge your perceptions and provide an exhilarating riding experience. So, what do you think? Are you ready to take on the trails with the Ripley SL? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
