Archive for category: Reviews

Written by Brett SHARE TWEET

Downhill Bikes For Kids

First-generation mountain bikers are having families of their own and that has helped grow the demand for purpose-built mountain bikes. As a result, downhill bikes for kids are starting to become more popular. Several race events offer a junior downhill category on their tracks. A kid-sized downhill bike is a mandatory tool for the job when those 12 and under are ready to hit the gnar.

Take note – some of the downhill bikes in this article will also suffice as enduro bikes for kids.

Jump to: Downhill Bikes with 20 Inch Wheels | Downhill Bikes with 24 Inch Wheels | Downhill Bikes with 27.5 or 29 Inch Wheels

Downhill Bikes With 20 Inch Wheels

All of these downhill bikes for kids feature front and rear suspension with disc brakes. The forks for this group are limited to single-crown designs because kids in this category just don’t weight enough to warrant a dual-crown fork.

Commencal Clash 20

The CLASH 20, equipped with 20-inch wheels and 125mm travel, is a great option for your young downhill rider. This full-suspension kids’ mountain bike features the Manitou Machete Junit Pro fork for comfort, complemented by a Super Deluxe Select shock with customizable adjustments. Moreover, the cockpit, designed by Protaper, caters specifically to smaller riders. Braking is efficiently managed by Hayes Dominion A2s. Additionally, the Sram GX 10-speed drivetrain ensures reliability throughout. With Spank Spike Spoon 28 wheels and Schwalbe Big Betty Super Ground tires, it guarantees both durability and grip.

Standover Height: 22 in
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Buy from Commencal

MeekBoyz Beast - 20 inch downhill bike for kids

MeekBoyz Mini Beast

This is the ultimate downhill bike for kids with 20-inch wheels. A T700 carbon frame and Fox Kashima coated suspension would make a rider of any age eat their vegetables and get good grades in exchange for this bike. MeekBoyz also makes downhill bikes with 24-inch wheels and 26-inch wheels.

Standover Height: 20.47 in
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Buy from MeekBoyz

Full Face Helmets
Full face mtb helmets for kids are a necessity when jumping bikes or riding technical terrain.

Have A Good Laugh – Or Cry
Find out how much that mountain bike really cost you with our mountain bike real cost calculator

Downhill Bikes With 24 Inch Wheels

There are some nice looking options in this group because it’s where manufacturers can start to trim off the weight without sacrificing performance. If you have kids who actually need a 24 inch wheel downhill bike are young ninjas.

Marin Rift Zone Jr.

Marin designed the Rift Zone Jr, to provide young shredders with a fun full-suspension bike. Built around Marin’s Multi-Trac suspension system, the Rift Zone Jr. is Marin’s most playful and fun youth full suspension bike to date. The bike’s light aluminum frame creates a snappy feel that is equally at home on rolling hills as it is on steep downhill singletrack. Firstly, the 120mm X-Fusion Velvet and X-Fusion O2 Pro rear shock provide a supple and smooth ride. Secondly, the Deore 1×11 drivetrain provides all the gears you need to make it up the steepest climbs. Thirdly, Shimano hydraulic disc brakes provide incredible stopping power when descending those steep chutes. Finally, the bike is rounded out with Marin Tubeless Ready 24″ or 26-inch wheels for fewer flats and incredible traction.

Standover Height: Not Available
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Buy from Jensen

Commencal Clash 24

The CLASH 24 full suspension mountain bike has 24-inch wheels and 145mm travel, promising a playful biking experience. Notably, it features the Manitou Machete Junit Pro fork and Super Deluxe Select shock, ensuring both comfort and precision on the trails. The cockpit, designed by PROTAPER with a Junit combo, caters specifically to smaller riders. Additionally, Shimao’s two-piston Deore M6100 brakes deliver ample stopping power. Coupled with a Sram NX 11-speed drivetrain, shortened cranks, a KS Rage-I telescopic seat post, Spank Spike Spoon 28 wheels for solidity, and Schwalbe Big Betty Super Trail tires for enhanced grip, the CLASH 24 excels in both reliability and performance.

Standover Height: 25.5 in
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Buy from Commencal

Transition Ripcord

The Ripcord has gone through a couple of designs since its arrival and it’s a great option for your gravity-minded wild child. A SRAM drivetrain and Maxxis tires are featured components. A RockShox suspension package tames the bumps and landings.

Standover Height: 26.57 in
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Buy from Tansition

Rocky Mountain Reaper

Depending on which size frame you choose, the Reaper can take 24-inch, 26-inch, and 27.5 inch wheels. This ensures your kid’s downhill bike can fit for as long as possible. See our review for the Rocky Mountain Reaper 26. We had a great time with this bike because it could handle technical terrain and it was a pleasant pedaler.

Standover Height:
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Buy from Rocky Mountain

Trailcraft Maxwell 24

MTB With Kids has reviewed the Maxwell 24 as well. It’s by far the lightest bike in the category so when the lifts stop running, your family can still be riding. Several build options are available from this Ft. Collins, CO family run company.

Standover Height: 25 in
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Buy from Trailcraft

Go On A Family Bike Ride
What’s on your bucket list for family mountain bike rides? How about Whistler’s Lord Of The Squirrels?

Protective Gear For Kids
Shop at BTO Sports, Backcountry, Jenson USA.

Downhill Bikes With 27.5 and 29 Inch Wheels

These are adult-size bikes available in either extra-small or small frame sizes. No limits here. All the kids downhill bikes in this list feature dual-crown forks for maximum suspension. Have fun on your shuttle laps and shredding park. All of these bikes are available in adult sizes. We list standover heights for the smallest size available.

Ibis Ripmo

The Ibis Ripmo AF NGX build is an entry-level option packed with exceptional value, ideal for taller downhill mountain biking kids. Its aluminum frame, now featuring a universal hanger for easy replacements, ensures durability even on rugged trails. With the SRAM NX/GX drivetrain providing a reliable 12-speed system for tackling technical climbs and SRAM G2 R 4-piston brakes delivering ample stopping power in a lightweight design, downhill performance is assured. Equipped with the lightweight and durable Blackbird Send I/II 29er wheelset by Ibis, optimal performance is guaranteed on descents. Marzocchi Bomber suspension, including the Bomber Z1 Coil fork with 160mm of travel and the Bomber Air rear shock, offers quality performance at a competitive price, ensuring reliable traction on both climbs and descents, making it a solid choice for downhill mountain biking adventures.

Standover Height: 27.7 in
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Buy from Competitive Cyclist

Trek Session

Session 8 is a downhill mountain bike with a burly alloy frame and high-pivot suspension design that keeps you nimble, planted, and blazing fast on even the most punishing runs. This bike includes a burly alloy frame, 200mm rear travel with a Marzocchi Bomber shock, 200mm RockShox Boxxer with plush DebonAir+ spring and Rush RC damper, powerful Code Bronze 4-piston brakes, and a SRAM GX DH 7-speed drivetrain. A burly alloy frame, 200mm rear travel with a Marzocchi Bomber shock, 200mm RockShox Boxxer with plush DebonAir+ spring and Rush RC damper, powerful Code Bronze 4-piston brakes, and a SRAM GX DH 7-speed drivetrain.

Standover Height: 30 in
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Buy from Trek

Norco Sight C3 Mountain Bike

The Norco Sight C3 build blends budget-friendly components with high performance. It features a reliable Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain and an e*thirteen Vario chain guide to prevent chain drops. With 4-piston brakes and 29-inch wheels, it handles obstacles with ease. Equipped with a 160mm RockShox Lyrik Select fork and custom-tuned Super Deluxe Ultimate DH rear shock, the Sight C3 ensures confidence on challenging terrain. Whether exploring new trails or hitting the enduro scene, the Norco Sight C3 Shimano Mountain Bike excels in climbing and delivers thrilling descents. Check out our Norco Sight review here.

Standover Height: 26.8 in
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Buy from Competitive Cyclist

GT Sensor Comp Mountain Bike

The GT Sensor Comp Bike offers enhanced trail control with its lightweight and compliant design. Its aluminum frame features 130mm of rear travel and 140mm of front travel, along with Universal Derailleur Hanger compatibility, Boost hub spacing, internal cable routing, and integrated frame protection. Equipped with a SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain and Tektro M745 hydraulic disc brakes, it ensures smooth climbing and controlled descents. Paired with WTB ST i30 TCS rims and Maxxis tubeless tires, it delivers improved traction and fewer flats. The GT Dropkick Dropper Post allows quick saddle adjustments with a lever press.

Standover Height: 27.6 in
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Buy from Jenson USA

Written by Traci SHARE TWEET

The Best Mountain Bikes for Kids 11-14 Years Old

Best mountain bikes for 11-14 year old boys and girls

Are you searching for the best mountain bikes for 11-14 year old kids? A new bike can increase your kid’s confidence and stoke! We have listed our favorite bikes with 26-inch wheels and low stand-over heights to fit 11-14 year old mountain bikers.

Here is an overview of our top 10 mountain bikes for 11, 12, 13 or 14 year old kids.

Prevelo Zulu Five 26 inch kids mountain bike

Prevelo Zulu Five – Kids’ 26-inch mountain bike

The Prevelo Zulu Five stands as a top-tier 26-inch mountain bike tailored for young riders venturing onto challenging trails. Engineered with Prevelo’s low and narrow geometry, it ensures riders remain balanced and in control. Additionally, featuring a slack head tube angle and short chainstays, the bike guarantees stability over rough terrain.

Crafted from lightweight aluminum and boasting custom-formed 6061 triple-butted tubing, the Zulu Five offers both durability and agility. Further enhancing its appeal are features like stealth cable routing and dropper post readiness, providing a sleek appearance while leaving room for potential upgrades. Moreover, its tubeless-ready wheels, 12mm Thru-Axle rear hub, and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes contribute to stability and reliable stopping power.

The integration of the Wide SpanMicroshift drivetrain and the kid-engineered HEIR direct mount crank maximizes pedaling efficiency. With 95% of assembly completed out of the box, minimal setup is required before hitting the trails. In summary, the Zulu Five offers young riders a high-performance mountain biking experience in a compact, ready-to-go package.

Buy this kids’ 26″ mountain bike from:

Prevelo

Wheel Size	26
Min. Standover Height	26.4 inches
Frame Material	Aluminum Alloy
Drivetrain	1×9
Brakes	Tektro M280 Hydraulic Disc
Shifter(s)	10 speed Microshift Advent X Pro
Derailleur	Microshift Advent X
Fork	Spinner 300 26 AIR - 120mm travel
Shock	none
MSRP	$1099.00
Live Price	Woom

Woom OFF Air 6 26 wheel rigid mountain bike for kids

Woom OFF AIR 6 – Kids’ 26-inch mountain bike

The Woom OFF AIR 6 is a super-light and durable 26-inch mountain bike for kids. Tough terrain is no longer an intimidating obstacle but instead a fun challenge to overcome. The special chainring ensures that the chain stays in place no matter how rough things get. A love of cycling becomes a passion for mountain biking. This 1×9 bike has a great gear range for easy climbing and fast flats. The Woom OFF AIR 6 weighs only 24.3 lbs (without pedals). The SRAM components will keep your kiddo riding for days. PromaxDisc hydraulic disc brakes will keep them in control.

Buy this kids’ 26″ mountain bike from:

Woom

Wheel Size	26
Min. Standover Height	26 inches
Frame Material	Aluminum Alloy
Drivetrain	1×9
Brakes	Promax hydraulic Disc
Shifter(s)	SRAM trigger
Derailleur	SRAM X5
Fork	Hydraulic Air 90mm
Shock	none
MSRP	$1049.00
Live Price	Woom

MTB Helmets For Kids

Make sure your kids have proper, well-fitting head protection.

Mountain Bike Helmets For Kids

Knee Pads For Kids

Knee pads are another level of protection for young riders.

MTB Knee Pads for Kids

Hydration Packs For Kids

Is your kid big enough to carry their own water and supplies?

MTB Hydration Packs for Kids

Co-op Cycles DRT 1.0 26 wheel hardtail mountain bike for kids

Co-op Cycles DRT 1.0 26″ mountain bike

The DRT 1.0 is a 26-inch mountain bike for riders 4’9″ to 5′ tall who are ready to ride some singletrack. The Co-op Cycles DRT 1.0 features 26 in. wheels, a versatile 3 x 7 drivetrain, and the solid stopping power of hydraulic disc brakes. The SR Suntour suspension fork’s aluminum lower is lightweight and provides 100mm of travel for a smooth ride. Shimano rear derailleur delivers smooth and precise gear changes. Tektro hydraulic disc brakes deliver reliable stopping power on or off-road, regardless of weather conditions.

Buy this 26-inch kids’ mountain bike from:

REI

Wheel Size	26 inches
Min. Standover Height	26 inches
Frame Material	Aluminum
Drivetrain	3 x 7
Brakes	Hydraulic Disc Brake
Shifter(s)	Shimano Rapidfire Plus
Derailleur	Shimano Tourney
Fork	SR Suntour
Shock	none
MSRP	$599.00
Live Price	REI

Radio Bike Co Zuma 26 wheel rigid mountain bike

Zuma 26in Mountain Bike – Kids’

Radio Bike Co. offers the Zuma 26in Mountain Bike for kids. The Zuma is crafted with a lightweight feel and comfortable geometry that suits young riders well. Crafted with a lightweight aluminum frame and fork, the Zuma is highly durable for the aspiring rider. We like that this bike features components from Promax, KMC, FSA, and VEE Rubber, which are all optimally chosen for young riders. A comfortable geometry keeps them balanced over their ride and improves stability and handling for increased confidence.

Buy this 26″ kids’ mountain bike from:

Competitive Cyclist

Wheel Size	26 inches
Min. Standover Height	27-inches
Frame Material	Aluminum/Alloy
Drivetrain	1×9
Brakes	Promax Mech Disk-310
Shifter(s)	Promax BL-42
Derailleur	Promax BL-42
Fork	nope
Shock	nope
MSRP	$799.00
Live Price	Competitive Cyclist

Marin Rift Zone 26 inch full suspension mountain bike

Marin Rift Zone Jr Kids’ Mountain Bike

Marin designed the Rift Zone Jr 26-inch mountain bike, to provide young shredders with a fun full-suspension bike. Built around Marin’s Multi-Trac suspension system, the Rift Zone Jr. is Marin’s most playful and fun youth full suspension bike to date. The bike’s light aluminum frame creates a snappy feel that is equally at home on rolling hills as it is on steep downhill singletrack. Firstly, the 120mm X-Fusion Velvet and X-Fusion O2 Pro rear shock provide a supple and smooth ride. Secondly, the Deore 1×11 drivetrain provides all the gears you need to make it up the steepest climbs. Thirdly, Shimano hydraulic disc brakes provide incredible stopping power when descending those steep chutes. Finally, the bike is rounded out with Marin Tubeless Ready wheels for fewer flats and incredible traction. Marin’s Rift Zone Jr is one of the best mountain bikes for kids who are ready for a full-suspension bike.

Buy this 26″ kids’ mountain bike from:

Jenson

Wheel Size	26 inches
Min. Standover Height	26 inches
Frame Material	6061 aluminum
Drivetrain	1×11
Brakes	Shimano MT 201 Hydraulic Disc Brake
Shifter(s)	Shimano Deore
Derailleur	Shimano Deore
Fork	XFusion Velvet RLC 120mm
Shock	XFusion Velvet O2pro
MSRP	$1899.00
Live Price	Jenson

Trek Wahoo 26 Path kid’s bike

The Wahoo 26 Path is a versatile and lightweight bike ideal for encouraging kids to ride and develop their confidence. Designed with practicality in mind, it boasts smooth tires that enable faster riding while maintaining ample traction for both pavement and paths. Featuring a sturdy aluminum frame, the Wahoo 26 Path is built to withstand the bumps and jumps encountered during a child’s beginning cycling adventures. Its wide, smooth tires facilitate swift movement on pavement without compromising grip, making it suitable for journeys from city parks to greenways and beyond.

Equipped with 8 gears, young riders can effortlessly shift through various terrains, including conquering big hills with ease. We wish this bike came with hydraulic brakes for enhanced stopping power. Designed to accommodate riders between 58 and 63 inches tall, the Wahoo 26 Path offers a comfortable and tailored fit for children as they explore the world on two wheels. Overall, it serves as a fine choice for fostering a love of cycling and nurturing essential skills in beginner riders.

Buy this 26″ kids’ mountain bike from:

Trek

Wheel Size	26
Min. Standover Height	23.2 inches
Frame Material	Alpha Silver Aluminum
Drivetrain	1×10
Brakes	Alloy linear-pull
Shifter(s)	microSHIFT Acolyte SL-M6285, 8 speed
Derailleur	microSHIFT Acolyte M5180S, 34-38T max cog
Fork	rigid
Shock	none
MSRP	$599.99
Live Price	Trek

Rocky Mountain Reaper 26

The Rocky Mountain Reaper is a design that allows your young mtb enthusiast to send it big and pedal on demanding trails. It’s a full-suspension kids’ mountain bike that comes with all the bells and whistles. This bike includes a RockShox Recon Gold and a RockShox Monarch R shock each with 130 mm travel, to soak up the bumps and keep your kiddo rolling. The Reaper delivers full-sized trail bike levels of competence and composure in a kid-friendly package.

Buy this 26″ kids’ mountain bike from:

Rocky Mountain

Wheel Size	26 inches
Min. Standover Height	27 inches
Frame Material	Aluminum Alloy
Drivetrain	1 x 10
Brakes	Shimano MT4100 Disc
Shifter(s)	Shimano Deore 10spd
Derailleur	Shimano Deore 10spd
Fork	RockShox Recon Gold 130mm
Shock	RockShox Monarch R
MSRP	$2769.00
Live Price	Rocky Mountain

Trailcraft Maxwell hardtail 26 inch bike for kids

Trailcraft Maxwell 26

Trailcraft is known for designing some of the best mountain bikes for kids. The Maxwell 26 starts right around 26 pounds in our ELITE level build with best in category components. That’s right, just 26 pounds and the PRO AXS level build is even lighter! This is a fun, playful, super flickable bike for all types of mountain bike riding. The Maxwell 26 is built for next level riding with some key geometry features designed specifically for young riders. The Maxwell 26 features a Horst link suspension design which is active under braking and very plush over both small bumps and bigger hits. Short yet stable 420mm chainstay length and a 1082mm wheelbase is the perfect 26″ trail bike for riders coming off a 24″ bike.

Buy this 26″ kids’ mountain bike from:

Trailcraft

Wheel Size	26 inches
Min. Standover Height	27 inches
Frame Material	Aluminum Alloy
Drivetrain	1×10, 1×11
Brakes	3 Options
Shifter(s)	2 Options
Derailleur	2 Options
Fork	Rock Shox REBA RL 27.5" 120mm - Boost
Shock	Monarch RT - 120mm travel
MSRP	$3,199.00 – $4,299.00
Live Price	Trailcraft

Trailcraft Maxwell 26

The Trailcraft Maxwell 26 is one of the best mountain bikes for 11-14 year old kids. To begin with, at just 25 pounds, this full-suspension mountain bike is extremely lightweight. Of course, the Trailcraft Maxwell 26 will provide confidence thanks to one of the best builds in the industry. When your teen is grinding to the top of an epic climb or roaring down a steep decline, they’ll feel comfortable because the Maxwell 26 is built to handle all situations. Summing up, this is a bike that will make them feel like they are the master of the trail every time they head out. See our full review of the Trailcraft Maxwell 26.

Buy this 26″ wheel enduro/trail mountain bike from:

Trailcraft

Wheel Size	26 inches
Min. Standover Height	26.57
Frame Material	Aluminum Alloy
Drivetrain	Shimano, options
Brakes	Shimano, options
Shifter(s)	XT M8000
Derailleur	Shimano, options
Fork	Rock Shox Reba SL 120mm
Shock	Monarch RT-120mm
MSRP	Varies
Live Price	Trailcraft

Written by Traci SHARE TWEET

Best 24-inch Mountain Bikes for Kids

Best 24-inch Mountain Bikes for Kids: Hitting the trails with your 8-11 year old? If your rider isn’t quite big enough for a full sized mountain bike, but is ready to graduate from a 20-inch wheel bike, a 24-inch wheel bike may be the perfect middle ground. 24-inch bikes can last your kiddo 2-3 years and can definitely take your kid to the next level. Check out our list of best mountain bikes for 8-11 year old boys and girls below.

Importantly, before you shell out the money on a new mountain bike for your kid, you’ll want to be sure that your kid can straddle the bike with both feet flat on the ground (for beginners) or on tip toe (for more advanced riders). Get a good stand-over height measurement by measuring your child’s inseam.

Additionally, we recommend that you look for a bike that has the biggest wheels available for your kid’s stand-over height. Firstly, bigger wheels roll more easily over obstacles on the trail. Secondly, a bike with larger diameter wheels will be more stable and more efficient for longer rides than smaller wheels because they require less effort to keep their momentum going. Kids on the taller side may fit on a 26-inch wheel bike, so you might want to check out our list of best mountain bikes for 11-14 year old kids before making a purchase.

Here is an overview of our top ten best mountain bikes for 8-11 year old boys and girls. These mountain bikes all have 24-inch wheels. Check out the comparison table at the end of the article to see all the size, cost and other data in one place.

Prevelo Zulu 4

The Prevelo Zulu Four is a top-tier 24-inch mountain bike engineered for young riders eager to conquer challenging trails. Its low and narrow geometry, combined with a slack head tube angle and short chainstays, ensures excellent control over rough terrain. Crafted with lightweight aluminum and custom-formed 6061 triple-butted tubing, the bike offers durability and agility.

Additionally, featuring stealth cable routing and a readiness for a dropper post, the Zulu Four provides a sleek appearance with room for future upgrades. Furthermore, its tubeless-ready wheels and tires, along with a 12mm Thru-Axle rear hub, enhance stability and responsiveness. The kid-engineered direct mount crank maximizes pedaling efficiency.

Moreover, with 95% assembly out of the box, requiring only basic installations like the handlebar and pedals, the Zulu Four is designed for easy setup and immediate trail enjoyment. In essence, it offers young riders a high-performance mountain biking experience in a compact package.

Buy this 24″ kids’ mountain bike from:

Prevelo

Wheel Size	24 inches
Min. Standover Height	25-inches
Frame Material	Aluminum/Alloy
Drivetrain	1×10
Brakes	Tektro M281 Hydraulic Disc
Shifter(s)	10 speed Microshift Advent X Pro
Derailleur	Microshift Advent X
Fork	Spinner 300 24 AIR - 100mm travel
Shock	N/A
MSRP	$1049.00
Live Price	Prevelo/span>

Specialized Riprock 24

The Specialized Riprock 24in kids’ bike is a great step up for kids ready to shred. It’s designed with aggressive geometry and top-notch components to support skill progression. The bike boasts a high-quality butted alloy frame, internal cable routing, dropper post compatibility, hydraulic disc brakes, and a reliable 1x drivetrain. Not only are the structure and components suited for advanced riding, but the geometry is too, with a steep 67-degree head tube angle that instills confidence when riding downhill. Its nearly 1000mm wheelbase ensures stability on challenging terrain, while the short 390mm chainstays allow for agile handling. Plus, the 73.5-degree seat tube angle keeps them in a strong position for climbing.

The Specialized Riprock features quality components that enable our young riders to keep honing their skills. The microSHIFT Advent 9-speed drivetrain offers smooth and dependable gear shifting across a wide range. Hydraulic disc brakes, equipped with C-STAR Hydraulic Disc Brake brakes and 160mm rotors, provide reliable stopping power for downhill confidence. Lastly, the Specialized Ground Control Sport tires, 2.35 inches wide, deliver excellent grip and traction on various terrains.

Buy this 24″ kids’ mountain bike from:

Competitive Cyclist

Wheel Size	24-inch
Min. Standover Height	23 inches
Frame Material	6061 Alloy
Drivetrain	microSHIFT Advent, 9-speed
Brakes	C-STAR Hydraulic Disc Brake
Shifter(s)	microSHIFT Advent SL-M6190, 9-speed
Derailleur	microSHIFT Advent, 9-speed
Fork	rigid
Shock	none
MSRP	$700.00
Live Price	Competitive Cyclist