Most people shouldn’t focus efforts on a fast run! Usually ends up like that first KOM attempt when people are focused on riding as fast as they can. Better to just work with the bike and and let your flow determine your pace. Even on race runs, my theory is to just see what happens. This allows me to relax, which makes me faster.
I see where your coming from but as a racer if your not getting the feel for going as fast as possible down a trail you won’t be getting better as quickly as possible
Keaton, I am not for a second saying, don’t ride fast. I’m saying people need to focus on riding, smooth and flowing well and the speed will come naturally when people focus too much on going fast, they forget to focus on things like proper entry speed, line, choice, breaking points, and they end up doing just like in the video, going off line on a simple area, and losing more time than if they simply rode smooth. And when I’m in the zone, dancing with the bike down the trail, I am always faster than when I used to “try and go fast”. And the cool thing about racing, you can go as fast as you want, and not worry about hikers and other riders and dogs, because on a close course, it’s just you, your bike, and your confidence in your skills… I highly suggest anyone who rides go out and do at least one race and see what they think! Even if you finish, DFL, you are still a winner for lining up.
@@SprSonik13 yeah I definitely agree that finding the flow is really beneficial in helping you get faster. In an enduro race I was absolutely flying down the trail and a missed a corning and went flying off the trail 😂 it was partly because I forgot there was a corner right before the end but if I had just slowed down slightly I would have saved 10-20 seconds
While $940.00 sounds like a decent deal look closer at the part specs you'll need to upgrade. Not to mention add on the shipping from overseas/customs and taxes and your in the 1300+ range. Now add your dropper post, peddles, grips. I want this bike too, but after realizing I can hit my local bike shop and ride out the door. With better components and take it right back if there's something wrong! Not all of us have the money and or time to upgrade a mtb as soon as we buy it with our hard earned money.
It's fun to watch and be a bit jealous but it's not practical . Now you got a $ 2000 hardtail which in many cases you may have got a better all around bike at that price with not needing to do anything but ride .
Exactly, this is not very practical, while these upgrade videos are entertaining sometimes they make me yell at the TV like what the heck are you doing?😂
Not to mention the "the bike feels weird on the jumps, maybe i need to upgrade the wheels", lol. In two episodes this bike will cost 3000$ in upgrades sending the message that you cant ride a stock bike.
The sales over the last six months have been incredible. I got a fox factory 36 new for half off, a fork I never thought I'd own just because of how ridiculously expensive it is.
Dude Dylan! I saw a Fox 36 factory go for $300 on Jenson brand new. It was sold out in 2 hours haha. Great time to be riding especially after we were told prices will never drop again
@@EvansMTBSaga if Jenson can do an axs upgrade kit for $200 next I'll be in heaven lmao. Interesting to see how much used market is behind. I'm seeing last gen fox 36 forks still listed at like $800+. Hoping for some more amazing prices.
So, the bucking, definitely not the wheels. I'd say you should probably stand up more on the jumps to get more pop to put you in control rather than the bike in those situations. I'd try getting back a little bit more on the bike as you go up the take-off, too.
I know that buck feeling exactly. You just need a more exaggerated hinge at the waist, like a deadlift stance, chin over stem. Seems counterintuitive, like you're more likely to get bucked. But, you have more range of motion, more power, and more coordination in your legs to roll with that bucking bronco. Works for me anyway.
That trail is so well groomed (it appears) that you could probably benefit from a finer knobby tire, you might be able to carry a little more speed in some of those corners without the bike feeling like it wants to under steer. Also though… have you ever thought about lowering your tire pressure like 5lbs or so? Just enough to let the tread flex and grab the surface a little better. Lowering tire pressure a little bit could possibly help with the bucking a little bit. Otherwise my thought about the bucking might be from the new front suspension being softer than your previously used to. Stiffen it up or lock it out and hit the jump a couple of times and see if that takes care of the issue… then adjust it back down and see if you can find that sweet spot.
I'd recommend messing around with the tire pressure and considering an insert, as well as trying different tires. That may help with the bucking issue over jumps. Also readjust form, FS bikes jump differently from hardtails, needless to say, so it may take some different movements to keep a controlled launch off the lip.
I also ride the Big Al since this winter, as bad weather bike. I ride it with a 150mm fork and as a mullet with a 2.8 inch tyre in the back. Since the I installed the mullet setup I do not have the bucking issue. Try a mullet setup!
It sounds like you should play around more with your dampers rebound and (less so) compression settings. The bucking is prob a rebound thing. The Lost Co has an AMAZING video featuring the grip 2 damper where they covered the effects of setup changes in plain biker English. Would apply to your charger 2.1 just the same. Swapping to a lighter wheel will reduce inertia but it's not the source of the problem. IF any upgrade, maybe tire inserts so you can get more sidewall support. But I'm thinking you should just ride what you got and git gud
and for the type of terrain he usually rides, he uses tires with a lot of rolling resistance, he should test some tires with arrow pattern like high roller with no more of 2.4 of width to get an increase of speed.
“Cheap”. When everything was still overpriced. When are we going to stop with supporting the inflated price culture of mountain biking. Forks are nothing more than some metal tubing with a compression system. There’s zero engineering that goes into bikes that justifies the asking price of components/frames. RUclipsrs don’t help the market neither by constantly supporting scummy business practices. I get everyone wants to eat. But everybody is so damn greedy now they want an all you can eat buffet. I’m sorry. But videos like this one just don’t sit right with me when I know they’re ethically wrong.
I don't know if I'd say the bike industry is on the verge of collapse, but ... definitely some good deals out there - that was an awesome deal you found on that Pike. I recently got a Pike as an upgrade over my RockShox Judy - not finished with my build yet so I haven't been able to try it but I can't wait to see the difference!
Would be interesting to see Evan build an ebike with a bafang kit or similar, I built one with my Vitus Nucleus and the thing rips so much fun and considerably cheaper and lighter than a prebuilt ebike 😁
I’ve built a few crappier bikes like sub $500 with hub kits some of them a little more powerful than the bike should probably handle haha, I’ve never done a build with an actual capable mountain bike with decent components and stuff, I’ll have to try that sometime with the Vitus!
I’d be curious to see at the end of your upgrades the total cost for the final bike with its specs with a comparison to what you could have got in a new bike for the same money.
I'm going to post a video on a different bike next, so two weeks from now I should have my final upgrade video on this bike! I'll try to remember to put your request in
👍Good fun! For getting bucked, try increasing the fork's rebound rate (HSR). If the rebound rate is too slow, the fork will essentially be pulling you forward, and your body to move back and down. To add to this, if the HSR is too slow, and you're compressing the fork to boost off of jumps, the front end will stay down long enough for the back tire to ping off the jump caused by the front end being slow/down and forward. Keep doing what you do 👍‼
Dropper wise the One Up dropper would be a good option. Goes as low as a normal post! You breaking spokes now? DAMN! Time for some DT Alpine 3 spokes XD Never seen those broken! Sick riding btw! I ride a hardtail too and this issue of the rear coming up. I was able to solve it with adjusting my riding style a bit. I kinda automatically did so idk whatt i do different than before. Also i have found that if i push it i actually get slower from pushing it too far.
4:53 Or you can get a dropper post without a massive collar and head, like BikeYoke Divine, or PNW's lastest post. They are adjustable, but PNW is adjustable via a shim at the collar, Bikeyoke is with spacers internally I don't know for sure the drop this bike will fit, but some bikes will fit 185 or 200mm. I have Divine 185mm, but my bike can fit 200mm. I might try that at some point, if I find one in stock. So I would try that, but ad these are adjustable, you can get a 200mm if you like, and lower it if it's too tall. But I am not sure which length this frame fits as it has a bend in the seat tube, a stupid choice. My frame does not, so I can have a long post in there.
Getting bucked on a hard tail means poor form IMO. With FS it could be suspension settings but hard tail rules that out. Carbon wheels won’t change a thing.
9:39 Being bucked on the jumps is likely due to not being used to the hardtail, as you probably haven't ridden one in a while, plus this is a new bike, so need to get used to it. You need to get used to the balance point. once you do weird feeling will be gone.
I picked up a diamondback sync’r for $750 during their 50 percent off sale last year. I know it has dated geometry but it’s a huge upgrade over the Schwinn Axum I had even with all the upgrades I put into it. It’s definitely a good time for people to capitalize on the discounts going on in the bike industry right now.
@@EvansMTBSaga the best deal I have seen recently is bikes online had a Marin rift Zone 1 27.5 in a size medium for $799 but that deal didn’t last long.
I also just recently bought a big al and I don't even have the carbon handlebars but I noticed right away that trails felt much much smoother on this compared to my polygon xtrada7 there is definitely something about the frame that mutes out vibes, it's a really nice frame especially for the price
I think what’s happening is the fork is diving under compressions and you’re not running enough rebound up front to combat the rear end popping up. Maybe try a little more low speed compression and another click or two of rebound.
What tyres are running? I’m on 29x2.6 and running 24psi rear 20-21 front. my iPhone has never been reliable with times and I’ve seen as much as 20 second difference on short descents with mares.
On the bucking looks like you are absorbing the jump instead of being a little more stiff legged and letting the front wheel come up till the back wheel clears the jump. So you end up pushing the front down too soon and the rear kinda gets hooked on the lip of the jump, if that makes any since. Try keeping your head back and not looking where you are going to land till that rear wheel clears. You may end up jumping a little higher and further but you shouldn't loose as much speed.
I recently just purchased a 2022 Trek Slash 9.8 XT. Msrp was $6700. I bought mine for $5700 during Trek fest! Definitely buying a lot of stuff right now.
I bought a new Pike DJ for 580€, 2 years ago I saw them even going up to 900€. Especially big brands have big sales and now is the time to get them parts for as cheap as ever.
All the current 30% - 50% discounts on bikes and parts that we currently see advertised are what the actual retail costs should be as these companies are still making a profit . The good thing is I just purchased an ESKER Hayduke frame and the discounts on higher end parts are great as I'm building a really nice bike . I just feel for all the suckers that paid 2x more than me before all the discounts on parts.
Hi Brother, your fork may be going a bit deep into travel for the buck feeling. Possibly run fork as stiff as your arms and body can take . should also help with front end pushing, bike looks good though. also find the perfect tire for the front of that steed and air pressure because you are railing that thing good!!!
This fork is a steal for the prices it goes nowadays. Just pay attention to the damper, service it at least every 2 years. It usually sucks up some oil from the lowers, it gets overfilled, then a hard landing can break the bladder.
RIP Evan! Great video though, I did the same thing with the fork on my hardtail as well, I was able to get a brand new pike ultimate for like less than $700 and it rides like a dream
how did u get the red o ring into the recon because the normal recon that they give dont come with one. for eg the one on the stock polygon d7 and the ragley hardtail
I’m a Hardtail Guy, but after joining a Local Race, I found my limit in riding my HT. Rocks and Roots are nasty on a Hardtail. Before the race, I was saving some buck for a new fork. Planning to get a Lyrik or a Fox 36. But after that race, thinking of spending it on a FS Frame. Waiting for the FS frames to drop its prices. 😂
How much is shipping from chain reaction cycles to the U.S? I wish I could get a Ragley here in the U.S. without paying an arm and a leg for shipping overseas. There’s only 2 retailers of Ragley bikes in the U.S. and neither of them have any in stock
As far as the bike's cornering and from watching the video, if it was me, I'd go out and get a higher rise hadlebar to take some weight off the front wheel and make the bike feel more confident generally on downhills, it might even help with getting bucked, as your weight will be even more over the back. It's the opposite of the trend with professional riders, who are riding with more of their weight over the front than before, and often using lower bars, but you want it to feel better, I'd try a higher bar, 40-50mm rise or maybe even more.
I recently got a new Spectral CF8 and it RIPS! You're not wrong when saying that going back to a more budget based fork (Lyrik select + RC Charger 3 to a Revelation) is a bit more drastic than going from, just say fox to rockshox. 1 Thing to do would be going back to the cheap fork for a bit, get used to it and then go back to the good suspension
Another great video Evan! My Lyrik ultimate is due for a service and your description of the Enduro bearing fork seals sounded ideal. I went ahead and ordered a set but I can't tell from your video or the website whether or not the foam rings need to be oiled and reused or not? Do the enduro seals eliminate the need for them?
I have a Ragley MMMbop and I absolutely love it. Bought it in 2022 color silver. I am a 27.5 hardtail guy! I like the playfulness of it. I really hope Ragley isn't going out of business with the Chain Reaction/Nukeproof going bankrupt. I bought mine through chain reaction cycles and not entirely sure if they are under the same umbrella of companies. Sad too because i have a nukeproof wheel set and it is an awesome rear wheel with excellent engagement for the price. Really sad to see these companies going out.
They're more budget feeling than the two brakes you mentioned. But the power is great and a nice soft lever pull with a solid bite. The lever ergonomics isn't perfect and would suit a rider with bigger hands
I've got the exact same question, especially after having seen a recent review of a Polygon bike that was deemed "great value" but they also showed that the individual components were a bit cheaper than the full bike. Obviously you pay the difference in time and effort, but if parts are down in price along with the full bikes, I'm real curious if that's viable right now.
Great video! Do you use spd or crankbrothers clipless pedals? I started using spd today and i am already in love with them. They where also my first clipless pedals cuz i’m only 13 years old
thats a killer deal! I have a feeling I should have ordered the Mmmbop. You should check out the sales on 27.5 forks right now. I've seen an Ohlins RXF36 coil or air going for $500
@@EvansMTBSaga dang! I definitely will thanks. The big al looked appealing too, but I already have a steel XC hard tail so figured might as well go full slack haha
Shoulda bought the mmmbop or the blue pig. In all seriousness though, Ragley punches way over it's weight class, they make great bikes. Good choice on a bike
@@EvansMTBSaga awesome video. I've been waiting for the market to start to level out to start building up another hardtail. Your videos have a been a good gauge for what parts may be a good fit. For now, I'm ripping my 2006 Raleigh Mojave 2.0.
The market is crazy right now! I was checking for different forks after I started pushing my 36 rhythm too far and came across a brand new 38 factory for $700!!! I didn't think I would be able to find a fork that nice for so cheap!
$700 for a fork that uses about $50 worth of materials and a labor assembly cost of around $30. Even when you factor in the machining aspect of production and emission costs. It’s still robbery.
@@pubplays368 If it were so cheap and easy to make why don't the knock off companies make it for cheaper just as good? A fork that sells for $1250 normally but can be made for $80? That's a giant business opportunity for a Chinese company, they could sell it for $300 and make a killing.
Love the videos. Have had the big Al for a couple months. What year and Travel is the pike ultimate you scored? Keep up the great content.
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I don't know about the US, but in the UK Moutain Biking has become a rich man's sport with high end bikes costing as much as high end Adventure Bikes. 12k+ for an e-MTB when I can buy a BMW GSA, a high end ADV bike with that kind of money? Not to mention that I could have several dirt bikes? Yeah... It's a rich man's sport.
👍great video🤔swapped out the rear mech for a shimano deore, seems alot smoother, the plastic rebound key under the recon fork leg is a little weak🤔like those pikes alot👌are they the same offset and travel as the stock recons?👍
I've been riding this bike for 7 years now! ruclips.net/user/postUgkxHL1v1R3NE5x4KiYfyt8dnQmyNYz7qi5L It was a great bike the day I got it, put it together, and went on my first ride; more importantly it's an even better bike today. I've ridden trails, street, and skatepark all on this bike. I have replaced almost every part on the bike. Some stuff has broken: derailleurs, wheels, shifter. Everything else were upgrades. The only ramaing original parts are the frame, bottom bracket, and crank set. BB and cranks will be upgraded soon. The geometry isn't great but that is really the only draw back to how good a value this bike is. Even after all the money I've spent upgrading it's still a more affordable bike than I'd have bought from a proper bike shop, especially with full suspension. I've also learned a lot about bikes working on it over the years. It really is one of the best perchases I've ever made and hopefully it'll still be around for another 7 years.
Great video. Enduro bearings has great stuff, I want to try their new BB when mine need’s replaced. I have used the seal kits but not the headset. As for carbon bars, I use 31.8 and they have a much softer feel than 35mm diameter bars. I have one of my SS Mtn bikes with a manual Thompson seat post, and agree. If you’re ridding straight up then straight down loops or out and backs. You don’t need a dropper post. An idea for you to soften up the feel, I suggest i35mm rims laced up with double butted spokes or Berd spokes for the ultimate comfort. Then put 2.5 to 2.6” tires. That will make a huge difference.
@@frankapple4130 most bearings are manufactured in China. Probably every bearing from HS to BB, from Hubs to pivots on every bike from most bike brands. Chris King,Cane Creek and White Industries are some of the only brands that I can think of that manufacture their own bearings.
I used to ride cheap forks like Judy’s and stuff like that Once I got myself a yk jeffsy with a proper rockshox pike it felt like butter Never ever recons or Judy’s or similar
sweet hardtail, bro. i can't believe you got that killer fork for $450. i just won a set of those 1up carbon bars from thunderstruck's channel. you're right, they're awesome. it's time to buy. lol. great video, Evan.
Rockshox pike in s soo good like it doesn’t brake today I messed up a drop went almost flat i was sure that It would break but the thing that snapped was my frame😢
Maybe the 'bucking' problem is not the bike - perhaps it's time to sharpen up your jumping skills... How about a collaboration with Rich Drew? That would make a great video! 🙂
Hi Evan, just wondering if you try any bikes that are from bike shops, rather than Chain reaction/Wiggle? I know the online places are cheaper, but the local shops are great too and have some good geals at the moment.
Since you took off your recon could I have it? I am building up a Marin Bobcat trail 3. I really love all your videos and you have made me wanna upgrade mine 😊
Glad to see you on some budget builds again, it’s far more entertaining to watch over the expensive bikes for some reason. Keep up the good work 🙏🏾
Most people shouldn’t focus efforts on a fast run! Usually ends up like that first KOM attempt when people are focused on riding as fast as they can. Better to just work with the bike and and let your flow determine your pace. Even on race runs, my theory is to just see what happens. This allows me to relax, which makes me faster.
I see where your coming from but as a racer if your not getting the feel for going as fast as possible down a trail you won’t be getting better as quickly as possible
I would just mountain biking to me isnt just to go as fast as possible and push yourself your hardest. For me it’s just to enjoy yourself.
Keaton, I am not for a second saying, don’t ride fast. I’m saying people need to focus on riding, smooth and flowing well and the speed will come naturally when people focus too much on going fast, they forget to focus on things like proper entry speed, line, choice, breaking points, and they end up doing just like in the video, going off line on a simple area, and losing more time than if they simply rode smooth. And when I’m in the zone, dancing with the bike down the trail, I am always faster than when I used to “try and go fast”. And the cool thing about racing, you can go as fast as you want, and not worry about hikers and other riders and dogs, because on a close course, it’s just you, your bike, and your confidence in your skills… I highly suggest anyone who rides go out and do at least one race and see what they think! Even if you finish, DFL, you are still a winner for lining up.
@@SprSonik13 yeah I definitely agree that finding the flow is really beneficial in helping you get faster. In an enduro race I was absolutely flying down the trail and a missed a corning and went flying off the trail 😂 it was partly because I forgot there was a corner right before the end but if I had just slowed down slightly I would have saved 10-20 seconds
What’s the saying again? Fast is slow and slow is smooth. Smooth out your ride and you’ll naturally get faster.
I gotta admit that putting the sponsor plug in while showing the work youre doing in a side panel is pretty slick
lol I was thinking the same thing.
It has been the only way that has made me been okay with sponsorship ads. I usually just skip them
Ae😅
@@RABassin 😂😂😂😂
It’s like the racing ads where they still show the race but Picture in Picture…
While $940.00 sounds like a decent deal look closer at the part specs you'll need to upgrade. Not to mention add on the shipping from overseas/customs and taxes and your in the 1300+ range. Now add your dropper post, peddles, grips. I want this bike too, but after realizing I can hit my local bike shop and ride out the door. With better components and take it right back if there's something wrong! Not all of us have the money and or time to upgrade a mtb as soon as we buy it with our hard earned money.
Agreed
It's fun to watch and be a bit jealous but it's not practical . Now you got a $ 2000 hardtail which in many cases you may have got a better all around bike at that price with not needing to do anything but ride .
Exactly, this is not very practical, while these upgrade videos are entertaining sometimes they make me yell at the TV like what the heck are you doing?😂
I bought mine here in the states as a frame only and built it the way I wanted it. $450
Not to mention the "the bike feels weird on the jumps, maybe i need to upgrade the wheels", lol. In two episodes this bike will cost 3000$ in upgrades sending the message that you cant ride a stock bike.
The sales over the last six months have been incredible. I got a fox factory 36 new for half off, a fork I never thought I'd own just because of how ridiculously expensive it is.
Dude Dylan! I saw a Fox 36 factory go for $300 on Jenson brand new. It was sold out in 2 hours haha. Great time to be riding especially after we were told prices will never drop again
dude i just got an Ohlins RXF 36 for $500 brand new! that's a $1300 fork!
@@EvansMTBSaga if Jenson can do an axs upgrade kit for $200 next I'll be in heaven lmao. Interesting to see how much used market is behind. I'm seeing last gen fox 36 forks still listed at like $800+. Hoping for some more amazing prices.
Tells you just how overpriced most of this stuff actually is.
So, the bucking, definitely not the wheels. I'd say you should probably stand up more on the jumps to get more pop to put you in control rather than the bike in those situations. I'd try getting back a little bit more on the bike as you go up the take-off, too.
The bike industry is crashing, and so is Evans :D Great Build!
Evan. You are riding so well. Moving to Bentonville has given you so much practice. It is clear that you love what you do.
I know that buck feeling exactly. You just need a more exaggerated hinge at the waist, like a deadlift stance, chin over stem. Seems counterintuitive, like you're more likely to get bucked. But, you have more range of motion, more power, and more coordination in your legs to roll with that bucking bronco. Works for me anyway.
That trail is so well groomed (it appears) that you could probably benefit from a finer knobby tire, you might be able to carry a little more speed in some of those corners without the bike feeling like it wants to under steer.
Also though… have you ever thought about lowering your tire pressure like 5lbs or so? Just enough to let the tread flex and grab the surface a little better. Lowering tire pressure a little bit could possibly help with the bucking a little bit. Otherwise my thought about the bucking might be from the new front suspension being softer than your previously used to. Stiffen it up or lock it out and hit the jump a couple of times and see if that takes care of the issue… then adjust it back down and see if you can find that sweet spot.
I'd recommend messing around with the tire pressure and considering an insert, as well as trying different tires. That may help with the bucking issue over jumps. Also readjust form, FS bikes jump differently from hardtails, needless to say, so it may take some different movements to keep a controlled launch off the lip.
I also ride the Big Al since this winter, as bad weather bike. I ride it with a 150mm fork and as a mullet with a 2.8 inch tyre in the back. Since the I installed the mullet setup I do not have the bucking issue. Try a mullet setup!
It sounds like you should play around more with your dampers rebound and (less so) compression settings. The bucking is prob a rebound thing. The Lost Co has an AMAZING video featuring the grip 2 damper where they covered the effects of setup changes in plain biker English. Would apply to your charger 2.1 just the same.
Swapping to a lighter wheel will reduce inertia but it's not the source of the problem. IF any upgrade, maybe tire inserts so you can get more sidewall support. But I'm thinking you should just ride what you got and git gud
and for the type of terrain he usually rides, he uses tires with a lot of rolling resistance, he should test some tires with arrow pattern like high roller with no more of 2.4 of width to get an increase of speed.
Rear wheel bucking can't be rebound on a hardtail.
Ide say those tyres are over kill for those type of trails .
All bermed corners .
Ide up the psi too
“Cheap”. When everything was still overpriced. When are we going to stop with supporting the inflated price culture of mountain biking. Forks are nothing more than some metal tubing with a compression system. There’s zero engineering that goes into bikes that justifies the asking price of components/frames. RUclipsrs don’t help the market neither by constantly supporting scummy business practices. I get everyone wants to eat. But everybody is so damn greedy now they want an all you can eat buffet. I’m sorry. But videos like this one just don’t sit right with me when I know they’re ethically wrong.
I don't know if I'd say the bike industry is on the verge of collapse, but ... definitely some good deals out there - that was an awesome deal you found on that Pike. I recently got a Pike as an upgrade over my RockShox Judy - not finished with my build yet so I haven't been able to try it but I can't wait to see the difference!
Evans MTB Saga is a youtube channel that is seriously underrated. This content deserves way more than it's getting as of right now.
Thanks Samunnat! Ive been working hard and the views are doing pretty good right now
@@EvansMTBSaga Yea man keep it up 👍
Would be interesting to see Evan build an ebike with a bafang kit or similar, I built one with my Vitus Nucleus and the thing rips so much fun and considerably cheaper and lighter than a prebuilt ebike 😁
I’ve built a few crappier bikes like sub $500 with hub kits some of them a little more powerful than the bike should probably handle haha, I’ve never done a build with an actual capable mountain bike with decent components and stuff, I’ll have to try that sometime with the Vitus!
I’d be curious to see at the end of your upgrades the total cost for the final bike with its specs with a comparison to what you could have got in a new bike for the same money.
I'm going to post a video on a different bike next, so two weeks from now I should have my final upgrade video on this bike! I'll try to remember to put your request in
👍Good fun! For getting bucked, try increasing the fork's rebound rate (HSR). If the rebound rate is too slow, the fork will essentially be pulling you forward, and your body to move back and down. To add to this, if the HSR is too slow, and you're compressing the fork to boost off of jumps, the front end will stay down long enough for the back tire to ping off the jump caused by the front end being slow/down and forward. Keep doing what you do 👍‼
Thanks Dan I'm gonna try this out ASAP!
Dan seems to know what he's on about 👍
Dropper wise the One Up dropper would be a good option. Goes as low as a normal post!
You breaking spokes now? DAMN! Time for some DT Alpine 3 spokes XD Never seen those broken! Sick riding btw! I ride a hardtail too and this issue of the rear coming up. I was able to solve it with adjusting my riding style a bit. I kinda automatically did so idk whatt i do different than before.
Also i have found that if i push it i actually get slower from pushing it too far.
4:53 Or you can get a dropper post without a massive collar and head, like BikeYoke Divine, or PNW's lastest post.
They are adjustable, but PNW is adjustable via a shim at the collar, Bikeyoke is with spacers internally
I don't know for sure the drop this bike will fit, but some bikes will fit 185 or 200mm.
I have Divine 185mm, but my bike can fit 200mm. I might try that at some point, if I find one in stock.
So I would try that, but ad these are adjustable, you can get a 200mm if you like, and lower it if it's too tall.
But I am not sure which length this frame fits as it has a bend in the seat tube, a stupid choice. My frame does not, so I can have a long post in there.
I've never seen any youtuber go through more parts on bikes than you Evan lol
RIP Evan - gone but not forgotten.
Getting bucked on a hard tail means poor form IMO. With FS it could be suspension settings but hard tail rules that out. Carbon wheels won’t change a thing.
This! weight has nothing to do here, infact those who prioritize jumps usually go for heavier/bulletproof wheels.
Hehe, last part with the spoke, reminds me how I went to the bike shop to true my wheel and ended up with new wheels set…😅
9:39 Being bucked on the jumps is likely due to not being used to the hardtail, as you probably haven't ridden one in a while, plus this is a new bike, so need to get used to it.
You need to get used to the balance point. once you do weird feeling will be gone.
You made that trail look easy. You are inspiring me to get a bike and start riding.
I picked up a diamondback sync’r for $750 during their 50 percent off sale last year. I know it has dated geometry but it’s a huge upgrade over the Schwinn Axum I had even with all the upgrades I put into it. It’s definitely a good time for people to capitalize on the discounts going on in the bike industry right now.
Oh yeah I saw an ad for Diamondback right now advertising 50% off
@@EvansMTBSaga the best deal I have seen recently is bikes online had a Marin rift Zone 1 27.5 in a size medium for $799 but that deal didn’t last long.
I also just recently bought a big al and I don't even have the carbon handlebars but I noticed right away that trails felt much much smoother on this compared to my polygon xtrada7 there is definitely something about the frame that mutes out vibes, it's a really nice frame especially for the price
I think what’s happening is the fork is diving under compressions and you’re not running enough rebound up front to combat the rear end popping up. Maybe try a little more low speed compression and another click or two of rebound.
I love the recommendations! I appreciate it so much and hope I can spot what's needed with the suspension like you man. Thanks again!!
What tyres are running? I’m on 29x2.6 and running 24psi rear 20-21 front.
my iPhone has never been reliable with times and I’ve seen as much as 20 second difference on short descents with mares.
On the bucking looks like you are absorbing the jump instead of being a little more stiff legged and letting the front wheel come up till the back wheel clears the jump. So you end up pushing the front down too soon and the rear kinda gets hooked on the lip of the jump, if that makes any since. Try keeping your head back and not looking where you are going to land till that rear wheel clears. You may end up jumping a little higher and further but you shouldn't loose as much speed.
I recently just purchased a 2022 Trek Slash 9.8 XT. Msrp was $6700. I bought mine for $5700 during Trek fest! Definitely buying a lot of stuff right now.
I bought a new Pike DJ for 580€, 2 years ago I saw them even going up to 900€. Especially big brands have big sales and now is the time to get them parts for as cheap as ever.
All the current 30% - 50% discounts on bikes and parts that we currently see advertised are what the actual retail costs should be as these companies are still making a profit .
The good thing is I just purchased an ESKER Hayduke frame and the discounts on higher end parts are great as I'm building a really nice bike . I just feel for all the suckers that paid 2x more than me before all the discounts on parts.
Is it worth buying this bike new at £399.99 . From Change reaction Or should I buy the blue version from the other video?
Hi Brother, your fork may be going a bit deep into travel for the buck feeling. Possibly run fork as stiff as your arms and body can take . should also help with front end pushing, bike looks good though. also find the perfect tire for the front of that steed and air pressure because you are railing that thing good!!!
This fork is a steal for the prices it goes nowadays. Just pay attention to the damper, service it at least every 2 years. It usually sucks up some oil from the lowers, it gets overfilled, then a hard landing can break the bladder.
Oh yikes haha. Sounds bad. Luckily I haven't had to service any dampers since I started this MTB journey. Longest time I've owned a bike is 6 months
RIP Evan! Great video though, I did the same thing with the fork on my hardtail as well, I was able to get a brand new pike ultimate for like less than $700 and it rides like a dream
Ok I'm not going to be able to watch ads in any other format now. Well done.
Haha! I've been doing this since the beginning, helps avoid a retention dip 😁
Please do not grease the fork seals on the outer part or the fork. The seals should fit nice and thight. The grease can make them split out.
great deal but add another 270$ for shipping. OOF.
how did u get the red o ring into the recon because the normal recon that they give dont come with one. for eg the one on the stock polygon d7 and the ragley hardtail
I’m a Hardtail Guy, but after joining a Local Race, I found my limit in riding my HT. Rocks and Roots are nasty on a Hardtail.
Before the race, I was saving some buck for a new fork. Planning to get a Lyrik or a Fox 36. But after that race, thinking of spending it on a FS Frame. Waiting for the FS frames to drop its prices. 😂
if the rear derailleur is trash you can install a Shinano Deore M6100 SGS. It's cheap and works well.
How much is shipping from chain reaction cycles to the U.S? I wish I could get a Ragley here in the U.S. without paying an arm and a leg for shipping overseas. There’s only 2 retailers of Ragley bikes in the U.S. and neither of them have any in stock
They're in the process of draining old stock and the new models should be coming soon. I think shipping was like $260 but I can't remember.
As far as the bike's cornering and from watching the video, if it was me, I'd go out and get a higher rise hadlebar to take some weight off the front wheel and make the bike feel more confident generally on downhills, it might even help with getting bucked, as your weight will be even more over the back. It's the opposite of the trend with professional riders, who are riding with more of their weight over the front than before, and often using lower bars, but you want it to feel better, I'd try a higher bar, 40-50mm rise or maybe even more.
I recently got a new Spectral CF8 and it RIPS! You're not wrong when saying that going back to a more budget based fork (Lyrik select + RC Charger 3 to a Revelation) is a bit more drastic than going from, just say fox to rockshox. 1 Thing to do would be going back to the cheap fork for a bit, get used to it and then go back to the good suspension
I always enjoy the camera work on your videos. Really like the mix on first person to the shots done track side. Really nice!
called it with the pike upgrade, looks like perfect fork upgrade for this bike.
You did for sure! I remember your comment and I had already installed it and filmed all that. I was like how does he know 😂
RIP Evan? No he rose from the dead 💀
Can't go wrong with a Ragley 👌
squash the jumps if you want the KOM! ground = faster
Another great video Evan! My Lyrik ultimate is due for a service and your description of the Enduro bearing fork seals sounded ideal. I went ahead and ordered a set but I can't tell from your video or the website whether or not the foam rings need to be oiled and reused or not? Do the enduro seals eliminate the need for them?
Yeah it eliminates the need for them and the oil in the lowers will lube them while riding
Great thanks Evan!
I have a Ragley MMMbop and I absolutely love it. Bought it in 2022 color silver. I am a 27.5 hardtail guy! I like the playfulness of it. I really hope Ragley isn't going out of business with the Chain Reaction/Nukeproof going bankrupt. I bought mine through chain reaction cycles and not entirely sure if they are under the same umbrella of companies. Sad too because i have a nukeproof wheel set and it is an awesome rear wheel with excellent engagement for the price. Really sad to see these companies going out.
is a trek marlin 6 gen 2 good enough to shred?
Ride for fun and the KOMs will come my friend.
Sick fork bro! Keep pumping out the good vids!
Evan I love the snap on ratching screwdriver!
Yeah it's been an awesome addition! I still love my Seats mini ratchet from 1978 though 😂
What do they you think of the Marzocchi Bomber fork? My bike has a Recon that I want to upgrade.
They're fucking heavy, i'd rather buy a used fox 36 or rockshox zeb for less money than a new bomber
coil shocks are imo the biggest meme, you pay more for less adjustablity
If weight is the main benefit than I will just stop drinking beer to lose 10lbs.
Do you do a times run, then go back with your camera operator to capture the highlights on a non times run?
Yup that is correct. Chest cam is from the timed run
@@EvansMTBSaga dude, that must take forever. But it makes the ride look so great. Well done
12:15 it could just be that your used to a full suspension
I'm thinking so. Gonna plan with the rebound too
What's your opinion on the new db8 brakes? Could you compare them to 4 pots XT and magura m5?
They're more budget feeling than the two brakes you mentioned. But the power is great and a nice soft lever pull with a solid bite. The lever ergonomics isn't perfect and would suit a rider with bigger hands
@@EvansMTBSaga thank you!
The question is has the pendulum swung the other way and is it cheaper to build your own bike over buying one complete ?
I've got the exact same question, especially after having seen a recent review of a Polygon bike that was deemed "great value" but they also showed that the individual components were a bit cheaper than the full bike. Obviously you pay the difference in time and effort, but if parts are down in price along with the full bikes, I'm real curious if that's viable right now.
Great video! Do you use spd or crankbrothers clipless pedals?
I started using spd today and i am already in love with them. They where also my first clipless pedals cuz i’m only 13 years old
Such a satisfying video to watch as always! Great ride!!!
Yo Taj Mihelich holds the top time on Huck to Face?!!!! 10:01 TAJ RULES!!!!🤘
Seems like the sales missed tire market because tires are still frickin $100.
Are you gonna solder that seat post into the bike?
Haha no. Why would one do that?
Nice one!! I just ordered an Mmmbop, 1200$ with a Bomber Z2, Db8, dropped, etc!
thats a killer deal! I have a feeling I should have ordered the Mmmbop. You should check out the sales on 27.5 forks right now. I've seen an Ohlins RXF36 coil or air going for $500
@@EvansMTBSaga dang! I definitely will thanks. The big al looked appealing too, but I already have a steel XC hard tail so figured might as well go full slack haha
Well tbh, Ragley is not a cheap bike brand. Just a HONEST company .
BMX skills on full display. Scrubbing like a champ
Shoulda bought the mmmbop or the blue pig. In all seriousness though, Ragley punches way over it's weight class, they make great bikes. Good choice on a bike
Where do you buy your bike parts for such a low price I’m curious
Pinkbike
@@EvansMTBSaga thank you so much, also are you ready for us pro cup in Fayetteville this week
Maybe try a mullet setup? 27.5 on the rear.
Just glossing over Taj at the leader of Huck to Face, lol. Sick content! Can definitely see the BMX racer in you shining through in this one.
I've heard he's fast, but I think the gps can get screwy on that segment too
@@EvansMTBSaga awesome video. I've been waiting for the market to start to level out to start building up another hardtail. Your videos have a been a good gauge for what parts may be a good fit. For now, I'm ripping my 2006 Raleigh Mojave 2.0.
this guys videos feel like a bad fever dream
The market is crazy right now! I was checking for different forks after I started pushing my 36 rhythm too far and came across a brand new 38 factory for $700!!! I didn't think I would be able to find a fork that nice for so cheap!
Thats affordable not cheap lol
@ROB VAN DUREN Considering I was in the market and having to stomach spending more, at 55% off, I considered it cheap.
$700 for a fork that uses about $50 worth of materials and a labor assembly cost of around $30. Even when you factor in the machining aspect of production and emission costs. It’s still robbery.
@@pubplays368 If it were so cheap and easy to make why don't the knock off companies make it for cheaper just as good? A fork that sells for $1250 normally but can be made for $80? That's a giant business opportunity for a Chinese company, they could sell it for $300 and make a killing.
Love the videos. Have had the big Al for a couple months. What year and Travel is the pike ultimate you scored? Keep up the great content.
I don't know about the US, but in the UK Moutain Biking has become a rich man's sport with high end bikes costing as much as high end Adventure Bikes. 12k+ for an e-MTB when I can buy a BMW GSA, a high end ADV bike with that kind of money? Not to mention that I could have several dirt bikes? Yeah... It's a rich man's sport.
Can I ask how tall you are and what frame size you went for? - looking at the Geo they look big, but at 6' buying a medium seem odd
I'm 5'9" and went with medium. I'd say medium would be way too small for you
Thanks for that. I’ll take a punt on the large. Reach is exactly the same as my orbea so should be good
That trail looks very BMX. I am sure it will be fun on a BMX cruiser 24 inch.
Can you do a video on where and how to get these used parts?
OneUp bars are awesome, but the shorter you cut them, the less compliant they become.
I've been rocking 780 on the full suspension and 760 for Hardtail
....but that goes for any bars.
@@madrapperdave true. I just point out OneUp because they claim to be the most compliant carbon bar
I bought new pike with charger 3 for 780eur last year, used 2.1 for 450$ sounds about right.
👍great video🤔swapped out the rear mech for a shimano deore, seems alot smoother, the plastic rebound key under the recon fork leg is a little weak🤔like those pikes alot👌are they the same offset and travel as the stock recons?👍
Put a Dissector on the rear! (for speed - not the hucking issue) :)
There's no where to charge your electric bicycle when you're out no charging points
Get a smaller rear wheel. Mullet helped me get well over 10% faster immediately.
I've been riding this bike for 7 years now! ruclips.net/user/postUgkxHL1v1R3NE5x4KiYfyt8dnQmyNYz7qi5L It was a great bike the day I got it, put it together, and went on my first ride; more importantly it's an even better bike today. I've ridden trails, street, and skatepark all on this bike. I have replaced almost every part on the bike. Some stuff has broken: derailleurs, wheels, shifter. Everything else were upgrades. The only ramaing original parts are the frame, bottom bracket, and crank set. BB and cranks will be upgraded soon. The geometry isn't great but that is really the only draw back to how good a value this bike is. Even after all the money I've spent upgrading it's still a more affordable bike than I'd have bought from a proper bike shop, especially with full suspension. I've also learned a lot about bikes working on it over the years. It really is one of the best perchases I've ever made and hopefully it'll still be around for another 7 years.
Great video. Enduro bearings has great stuff, I want to try their new BB when mine need’s replaced. I have used the seal kits but not the headset. As for carbon bars, I use 31.8 and they have a much softer feel than 35mm diameter bars. I have one of my SS Mtn bikes with a manual Thompson seat post, and agree. If you’re ridding straight up then straight down loops or out and backs. You don’t need a dropper post. An idea for you to soften up the feel, I suggest i35mm rims laced up with double butted spokes or Berd spokes for the ultimate comfort. Then put 2.5 to 2.6” tires. That will make a huge difference.
Enduro bearings are Chinese. Crap bearings but great marketing.
@@frankapple4130 most bearings are manufactured in China. Probably every bearing from HS to BB, from Hubs to pivots on every bike from most bike brands. Chris King,Cane Creek and White Industries are some of the only brands that I can think of that manufacture their own bearings.
@@hardmtnbiker SKF, NTN, and others too
I used to ride cheap forks like Judy’s and stuff like that
Once I got myself a yk jeffsy with a proper rockshox pike it felt like butter
Never ever recons or Judy’s or similar
You need a 26" for those trails.
sweet hardtail, bro. i can't believe you got that killer fork for $450. i just won a set of those 1up carbon bars from thunderstruck's channel. you're right, they're awesome. it's time to buy. lol. great video, Evan.
The bike looks really good, thanks for the fun video 😃
Great build overall. I’d just have to say, I’d try to find a used dropper, likely could find something for $100 I’d think
Rockshox pike in s soo good like it doesn’t brake today I messed up a drop went almost flat i was sure that It would break but the thing that snapped was my frame😢
Maybe the 'bucking' problem is not the bike - perhaps it's time to sharpen up your jumping skills... How about a collaboration with Rich Drew? That would make a great video! 🙂
Hi Evan, just wondering if you try any bikes that are from bike shops, rather than Chain reaction/Wiggle? I know the online places are cheaper, but the local shops are great too and have some good geals at the moment.
Since you took off your recon could I have it? I am building up a Marin Bobcat trail 3.
I really love all your videos and you have made me wanna upgrade mine 😊