Alex James sorry, but you’re wrong. The V1, which is what’s shown in this video, is 145mm. The new V2 and AF models are 147mm. Also, I can’t believe I’m having to argue over 2mm of suspension travel.
Glad you liked it! The Ripley would be a great update for you. It is a very balanced bike that does a lot of things very well. The same could be said about the Ripmo. Although the Ripmo will descend a bit better, especially when things get steep and rocky.
My opinion, if you pull the trigger on a Ripley, go with a 140mm fork to get the most out of the bike. It gets even less startled in chunk, and still climbs ridiculously well! Also don't buy into the 2.6's b/c you can. They really bring a wonkiness to the ride. The DW-Link trying to do it's thing and the big volume tires are doing something different.
@@ascbeerman I do, the version 2 or the LS version 1. A friend has the Ripmo and has the Ripley LS version 2, and his fiance got the new Ripley this year. My only suggestion/warning is that you want to really look at the fit. I ride a size medium in everything, but have to run a setback post to run a short stem. If I wanted to run a dropper, I'd probably have to be on a large...and I'm 5'8-5'9. Across the line, they have been known to fit a little small compared to other brands. So take your Ells numbers and match up the Top Tube length combined w/ the Seat Tube angle and Head tube angle along w/ stem length so you get the fit right. That said, my setup w/ a setback post and 44mm -12deg stem, I am in the best fit position I've ever been in on a MTB. It's so balanced and I nailed centering on the wheelbase and since the fit is slightly smaller I can just flick the bike around everywhere.
I feel the same way about these two in that they are so similar. I would go Rimpo because its one of the best climbing in its category and its not far off from the Ripley in terms of climbing but more capable!
Great video! I've got to agree-love my Ripmo, climbs great for an enduro bike but can't climb like my Stumpjumper. As for descending, I'm waiting for the snow to clear, so I can hit Northstar and do a direct comparison with my Tues.
I'm surprised you feel the Stumpy climbs better. May I ask what tires you have on the Ripmo? I felt the Ripmo is the current best climbing bike with the Hightower right behind it.
This is a great comparison Video - the best I've came across! I been riding my V1 Ripley for years now. As much as I love the Ripley and the V4 even more, I feel like I can use more stability on the descents. I live in NorCal and am not an aggressive rider. I did demo the Ripmo at the Ibis HQ about a year ago, and really loved the stability but wasn't sure about its climbing prowess and weight compared to the Ripley. It was a radical difference at the time. Fast forward to the last month, I been demo'ing a lot of bikes. I had a chance to demo the Ripmo AF and the Ripmo V1 back to back and really liked them both. I came across a great deal on the Ripmo V1 and pulled the trigger. Hopefully, I'll get used to the added weight on the climbs - I expect I'll be good.
Stoked! Thanks for the kind words. The Ripmo AF is such an attractive option for a do it all trail bike. And, then throw in the fact thats it's pretty affordable and you've got a killer bike. Let us know how you like it!
Nobert, I test rode the Ripmo and fell in love with it. I'm an older guy and I would have been walking half the stuff in this video. Still, I want more confidence going downhill than I have with my Trek Fuel EX8 right now. After test riding the Ripmo I have been checking on-line if there was any other options. My buddy and I were going to go to Hurricane for the Exposition but that got postponed due to the crisis. What I like about the Ripmo is that I felt comfortable on it from the second I started riding it. In the test ride at Wilder, granted there wasn't too much technical stuff, I felt very confident on all the downhill. I'm a rather good climber for my age and size so I don't have problems keeping up with my buddies on the climb but I am always last on the downhill. So, even though the Ripley is a better climber, my 'want' is better confidence on going downhill. Like you, I saw the deals on the V1 and am about to pull the trigger as soon as I do enough yard work that the wife approves and let's me. Great video Biker's Edge. Just a little more ammo I need to push me.
@@garywilson1688 I was on the fence about pulling the trigger, then just closed my eyes and paid..lol. I won a bid on Ebay. It's an NX build with low miles. I'll do upgrades when needed. I might get a new brake set sooner than later.
Having a hard time deciding between the 2023 Ripmo v2s or the 2023 Ripley v4s... this will be my first full suspension mountain bike (i've always ridden hardtails, I'll be coming off a 2021 Salsa Timberjack w/ a 130mm front fork). I mainly ride undulating flow trails with chunky tree roots in Alaska, but do a big big trip every year towards the moab/colorado/northwest area. The big factor is I broke my back and neck 3 years ago whitewater kayaking, so I'm looking to soften the hard ride of the softtail up. I would love to have a lighter bike like the Ripley, but the extra cush of the Ripmo would probably feel better on my back. Any suggestions?
Great review! I have two questions if you can find the time! First: Would you feel comfortable taking the Ripley to say Captain Ahab/Whole Enchilada, or do you think those trails would have you wishing for the Ripmo? Second: What offset Pike did you use on the Ripley? And Bonus Question: I am 6'1 with a 32" inseam (measured from crotch to floor), and 69.5" wingspan. So I have a long torso and relatively short arms/legs. Would you go L or XL on the Ripley/Ripmo? Thanks!
Hey thanks! 1 - I'd feel confident enough on Ahab/Enchilada with the Ripley. It wouldn't be the fastest lap but it could be done. There are bikes better suited for that kind of stuff (Ripmo) 2 - 42mm Offset. Bonus - I'd go XL for sure on either one of those. I'm pretty close to the same height.
I've been on both of these. For those trails and at your height I would go XL. Ibis Bikes have short reach and large would feel cramped at your height. While the Ripley could do those trails you mention, Ripmo would do a much better job, especially on Enchilada. I'll be posting a review on these on my channel in a few weeks. Just have to edit them.
Good review and video. Did you run the same wheels on both or ride them how they are pictured? The def/aggressor on the ibis rims are not going accelerate or climb near as well as the enve Schwalbe comb on that Ripley.
Fair point. Yes the tire combo on the Ripley is faster/lighter. I have ridden the Ripley now with a few different tires and still think it out climbs the Ripmo by quite a bit.
Nice review. I am looking for a new bike. For me the question is not longer/shorter travel but more I want a trail bike who is very capable in XC use also. Would the Ripley be an option for me? You mention the small differences between the Ripmo and Ripley so that makes me think the Ripley is not the bike for me when it comes to XC use....
Sorry for the slow reply. Just now seeing this. You could very well use the Ripley for XC use. You're not going to be racing World Cups on it, but for general XC riding it climbs very well. That said, it's not an XC race bike. It would work for casual local XC races, but if you're looking to be competitive a true XC race bike would be a better option. If you don't plan on racing and just want a trail bike that you can do XC style riding on, there aren't maybe better options out there than the Ripley.
Nice efforts & input on some of the “best bikes ever made”! My thoughts and feelings are similar, just two amazing bikes that cover a ton of categories just between them both! That Ripley is outstanding on the climbs & really fun overall 🤘🏼The Ripmo would be just the perfect one bike to have for fun or to Race enduros on!
@@bikersedge That makes sense. Thanks for getting back to me. I just got my Ripley and put 2.6's on and also went for the 140mm mod to the fork. A bit in between the two bikes you tested but if I want to go faster, I'll throw on the 2.35's which I may do once the 2.6's wear out.
@@ojh7025 I'm loving the Ripley 4. I guess it depends on your riding style. I ride central and north Jersey so it's anywhere from hard pack, roots, and some rock gardens. I'm not taking it off any drops more than a couple feet or up a lift. The Ripley is fast enough to keep up with the fast buddies going up and down. If you ride gnarly stuff a lot, perhaps the Ripmo is more suited for you, but as an all around trail bike, the Ripley is king. I tried the Pivot Trail 429, Santa Cruz Hightower, and Specialized Stumpjumper. They were all similar and the Ripley was the standout. I'm sure you'll be happy with either.
Im in between ripley and ripmo. Leaning more towards ripley. Maybe the SC tallboy with a 140 fox 36 is the best way to split the difference. Any thoughts??
Thats actually not a bad way to split the two. I'd be a little hesitant of overforking the TB. The seat tube isn't overly steep (I'm a tall guy so I really notice that kind of stuff) and it's going to get even slacker with the longer fork on it. I think another good option would be the Norco Optic. It falls between the two.
Nice review! Would you say that the Ripley is WAY better/more efficient at climbing than the Ripmo? If the Ripmo was built up with slightly more “trail” oriented tires/parts/etc., would it come close to closing the gap? I’ve never ridden a longer travel 29er before, so I’m just a bit nervous about it feeling super sluggish on the climbs. I’ll try to get out and demo one soon, but just hoping you might offer your thoughts. Oh, and If it at all helps with your suggestions, I currently ride a 27.5” Santa Cruz 5010 with 130mm f/r travel that comes in at a not particularly svelte 29.5 lbs. Thanks!!
With the tires and components on our build, yes the Ripley was way better. Granted, the Ripley I rode was about as lightweight and blingy as possible. I think you could do enough to lighten up a Ripmo though to make it climb quite a bit better.
I have a Ripmo and just demoed a Ripley last week. The Ripley climbs WAY better. It’s not close. How much of that is due to the tires I don’t know, but even with light tires and wheels I’ve have a hard time believing it’d ever be close. I’ve been experimenting with lighter tires on my Ripmo myself. And after being on that Ripley it feels sluggish.
How much do you weigh? I'm also 6'2", but weigh 210 pounds. I like the Ripley for my style of riding, but worried I might need the Ripmo since I'm heavy. Hoping you're close to 200 since you handled both bikes well.
I weight 220 and maybe about 225 with pack. Riding in Knoxville, Dupont, Front Range, Fruita, Moab, the one quiver is the Ripmo for sure. It might not climb as well as the Ripley or be as light, but its not that far off and gives you all that capability. I would check out Base Camp in Denver, they carry both these bikes for demo...
I just placed an order for a Ripmo and live in Knoxville. I’m 5’10 185. Absolutely torn whether to go with the Ripley for better climbing when I’m in the Rockies. I was hoping the Ripmo would be decent at the bike parks when I’m not doing trail rides. Thoughts?
@@michaelangelo747 Ripley and Ripmo are VERY similar. The Ripley is lighter basically due to lighter fork (34 vs 36) and rear shock (inline vs piggy back). I value climbing more, so went with Ripley - and love it. But Ripmo is a great climber for the class of bike - and stronger on the descents. Hard to go wrong either way. Base it on the trails you ride 90% of the time.
Thanks for the video. BE is an awesome shop. Curious about the tire setup you had on each? I own a Ripmo and I’m trying to lighten up the tires to make it a little more climbing friendly.
The Ripmo has the stock Minion/Aggressor combo. The Ripley had the Hans Dampf/Nobby Nic 2.3 combo. I think you could lighten up the tires a bit on the Ripmo to make it more on the trail side of things.
Thanks. That’s a pretty big difference in tires. I put a 2.6 Forekaster on the front and a 2.6 Rekon in the rear. Despite being “bigger”, those tires are a lot lighter and roll better. Definitely livened the bike up. I might try some 2.3 tires next.
I would run 2.5 front on the Ripmo and 2.35-2.4 on the rear. Schwalbe's are the lightest fastest rolling. Depending on what type of trails you ride. You in Utah? For rocky mountain riding in Schwalbe I would go Magic Mary 2.35 front and 2.35 Nobby Nic rear. This will give you a fast poppy and snappy bike, able to climb fast with do it all tires. If you want all capable, I would run 2.5 Maxxis Asssegai front and Dissector or Agressor 2.4 rear. WTB are nice tires but much heavier even over Maxxis typically. Ripmo is a sick bike!
I prefer the riding position on bikes with steeper seat tubes. It leaves me less stretched out and helps prevent lower back, neck and shoulder issues. I'd be very happy taking the Ripley on longer rides. Thinking of True Grit Epic here. It would be the perfect bike for that.
If you are coming off a bike with say, 73ish Effective STA, you will feel cramped on a new bike, the top tube measurement is too low to really tell the story of where you saddle ends up. I went back to a rear offset dropper to fix the issue, so yeah on flat stuff, you will need to adjust your fit, going up steep stuff though, the steeper seat feels really good.
Curse you!! I was all ready to pull the trigger on a Ripmo after my demo in Tahoe last week. Now I'm not sure... lol. Great video, not sure how you can talk at the same time your riding that trail. I'd have to edit my language ;)
Sorry to throw a wrench in your plans. I don't think you can go wrong either way. Both are great do it all trail bikes, each with a different emphasis. To be honest I'm surprised that anything I say while riding makes any sense. Its the hardest part of these reviews.
Really? Where did you see this? I guess that would explain why many guys are putting a Works components angle set to slacken the HTA and make it more Enduro.
Nice comparison! So I'm 6' 205 and ive rode the ripmo in a size large and liked it alot... trying to decide between the two bikes... would be my only bike. Based on your test would you take rider weight/size into consideration when chosing?
I'd take riding style and trail preference into account over size and weight. If you like climbing so you can turn around and ride downhill, go Ripmo. If you're more about spending long days on the trail, don't ride difficult trails every day and really enjoy climbing, go Ripley.
I just rode the ripley and had very similar results, I haven't ridden the ripmo in about 6 months, but from memory, it handles the bigger hits a lot smoother than the ripley. I am curious if the ripley could be fitted with a shock that would smooth that out though, it is a pretty short shock.
I don't know about fitting a different size shock. I'd certainly avoid over-shocking it. You could run a piggy back shock and that might help a bit. But at that point you may as well go Ripmo.
I'm a little torn between the two. I currently ride a V1 Ripley. The V4 is a no brainer, I recently demo'd it. It's very polished and literally floats up and down. The Ripmo on the other hand, tracks so well and is literally glued to the trail - never ridden such a stable bike. I really love the nimbleness of the Ripley but am starting to think I can use the added stability of the Ripmo. I think I'm going to have to demo the Ripmo one more time before deciding.
It's great. If you're not one to tinker with your suspension, it gives you a great fork at a great price. If you're looking for more adjustability the Performance Elite or Factory will be the ticket. Plus that Grip 2 damper is solid.
Great Video! I been riding the V1 Ripley for about 4 years now, and am starting to consider my next bike.. Back in January I went to the Ibis HQ and demo'd the Ripmo but was a bit hesitant because it wasn't as nimble as my Ripley on my initial ride. Also, the Ripmo was 5 pounds heavier. Nevertheless, I was impressed with it's stability and understand why it's so popular. Fast forward to the new Ripley... I think it's the perfect balance, even though I didn't demo it yet. I feel like I don't even need to demo it....I know what I'm getting. It's essentially a cross between the Ripmo and the Ripley. I'm getting the stability of the Ripmo with the nimbleness of the Ripley...sign me up!! However, with all the brands out there I'm wondering if there are any other brands to consider such as: 1. Guerilla Gravity 2. Whyte 3. Devinci Django 2019? Decision decisions.....Lol... One thing is for sure, the Ripley is a no brainer. It suits my riding style, local terrain, and Ibis is local for me. With all this said, I'm still trying to find the best bang for my buck. Lately, prices in the MTB industry have been getting ridiculous! Suggestions/Input would be appreciated! Have a great weekend!
I see you guys - Biker's Edge - are based in Kaysville Utah and also carry Giant. To your question, Norbert, I ended up with a Giant Trance 29 Pro 1 and couldn't be happier (I'm on the Wasatch Back). I did demo the Yeti SB100, Ripley V3, Hightower and Trance alloy. BTW, it seems most demo's of the Trance 29 are with the alloy with the DPS, and the Pro with the DPX2 rides noticeably better! I'd consider that bike as well...especially if you can wrangle a demo on the DPX2 equipped version!
I ride an Ibis Ripley V1 also... I demo'ed a Django last year and found the suspension felt less active and made the bike feel deadened / damp. I wasn't terribly impressed.
@@joshkeith7659 I demo'd a Django last year too - not too impressed either. Most likely I'll get the new Ripley. I really like my V1, with the changes they made to the new version I'm certain it will be even better!
Awesome video! One thing though, the Ripmo is 145mm rear, not 140mm.
Good call. I always forget about the extra 5.
@@bikersedge "That's what she said!".
@@TheJaxsonjack Well played.
Technically it’s 147
Alex James sorry, but you’re wrong. The V1, which is what’s shown in this video, is 145mm. The new V2 and AF models are 147mm. Also, I can’t believe I’m having to argue over 2mm of suspension travel.
Great video! You got me thinking Ripley all over again. Coming from a 2012 Ellsworth 29 that's 120/120 I think this is the logical next step.
Glad you liked it! The Ripley would be a great update for you. It is a very balanced bike that does a lot of things very well. The same could be said about the Ripmo. Although the Ripmo will descend a bit better, especially when things get steep and rocky.
My opinion, if you pull the trigger on a Ripley, go with a 140mm fork to get the most out of the bike. It gets even less startled in chunk, and still climbs ridiculously well! Also don't buy into the 2.6's b/c you can. They really bring a wonkiness to the ride. The DW-Link trying to do it's thing and the big volume tires are doing something different.
@@josh33172 Sounds like you own a Ripley?
@@ascbeerman I do, the version 2 or the LS version 1. A friend has the Ripmo and has the Ripley LS version 2, and his fiance got the new Ripley this year.
My only suggestion/warning is that you want to really look at the fit. I ride a size medium in everything, but have to run a setback post to run a short stem. If I wanted to run a dropper, I'd probably have to be on a large...and I'm 5'8-5'9. Across the line, they have been known to fit a little small compared to other brands. So take your Ells numbers and match up the Top Tube length combined w/ the Seat Tube angle and Head tube angle along w/ stem length so you get the fit right. That said, my setup w/ a setback post and 44mm -12deg stem, I am in the best fit position I've ever been in on a MTB. It's so balanced and I nailed centering on the wheelbase and since the fit is slightly smaller I can just flick the bike around everywhere.
I feel the same way about these two in that they are so similar. I would go Rimpo because its one of the best climbing in its category and its not far off from the Ripley in terms of climbing but more capable!
Great video! I've got to agree-love my Ripmo, climbs great for an enduro bike but can't climb like my Stumpjumper. As for descending, I'm waiting for the snow to clear, so I can hit Northstar and do a direct comparison with my Tues.
Northstar would be a great test for the Ripmo - really see what it can do.
I'm surprised you feel the Stumpy climbs better. May I ask what tires you have on the Ripmo? I felt the Ripmo is the current best climbing bike with the Hightower right behind it.
This is a great comparison Video - the best I've came across!
I been riding my V1 Ripley for years now. As much as I love the Ripley and the V4 even more, I feel like I can use more stability on the descents. I live in NorCal and am not an aggressive rider.
I did demo the Ripmo at the Ibis HQ about a year ago, and really loved the stability but wasn't sure about its climbing prowess and weight compared to the Ripley. It was a radical difference at the time.
Fast forward to the last month, I been demo'ing a lot of bikes. I had a chance to demo the Ripmo AF and the Ripmo V1 back to back and really liked them both.
I came across a great deal on the Ripmo V1 and pulled the trigger. Hopefully, I'll get used to the added weight on the climbs - I expect I'll be good.
Stoked! Thanks for the kind words. The Ripmo AF is such an attractive option for a do it all trail bike. And, then throw in the fact thats it's pretty affordable and you've got a killer bike.
Let us know how you like it!
Nobert, I test rode the Ripmo and fell in love with it. I'm an older guy and I would have been walking half the stuff in this video. Still, I want more confidence going downhill than I have with my Trek Fuel EX8 right now. After test riding the Ripmo I have been checking on-line if there was any other options. My buddy and I were going to go to Hurricane for the Exposition but that got postponed due to the crisis. What I like about the Ripmo is that I felt comfortable on it from the second I started riding it. In the test ride at Wilder, granted there wasn't too much technical stuff, I felt very confident on all the downhill. I'm a rather good climber for my age and size so I don't have problems keeping up with my buddies on the climb but I am always last on the downhill. So, even though the Ripley is a better climber, my 'want' is better confidence on going downhill. Like you, I saw the deals on the V1 and am about to pull the trigger as soon as I do enough yard work that the wife approves and let's me. Great video Biker's Edge. Just a little more ammo I need to push me.
@@garywilson1688 I was on the fence about pulling the trigger, then just closed my eyes and paid..lol. I won a bid on Ebay. It's an NX build with low miles. I'll do upgrades when needed. I might get a new brake set sooner than later.
@@NDemanuele1 At the end of the day, you will be riding instead of just thinking about it. Hope to follow your footsteps soon.
Having a hard time deciding between the 2023 Ripmo v2s or the 2023 Ripley v4s... this will be my first full suspension mountain bike (i've always ridden hardtails, I'll be coming off a 2021 Salsa Timberjack w/ a 130mm front fork).
I mainly ride undulating flow trails with chunky tree roots in Alaska, but do a big big trip every year towards the moab/colorado/northwest area. The big factor is I broke my back and neck 3 years ago whitewater kayaking, so I'm looking to soften the hard ride of the softtail up. I would love to have a lighter bike like the Ripley, but the extra cush of the Ripmo would probably feel better on my back. Any suggestions?
I’d happily recommend the Ripmo for keeping things plush and comfortable. It’s no slouch on the climbs either. Weight isn’t everything on the climbs.
@@bikersedge thanks:)
I’ll just buy Both!
Great review! I have two questions if you can find the time!
First: Would you feel comfortable taking the Ripley to say Captain Ahab/Whole Enchilada, or do you think those trails would have you wishing for the Ripmo?
Second: What offset Pike did you use on the Ripley?
And Bonus Question: I am 6'1 with a 32" inseam (measured from crotch to floor), and 69.5" wingspan. So I have a long torso and relatively short arms/legs. Would you go L or XL on the Ripley/Ripmo?
Thanks!
Hey thanks!
1 - I'd feel confident enough on Ahab/Enchilada with the Ripley. It wouldn't be the fastest lap but it could be done. There are bikes better suited for that kind of stuff (Ripmo)
2 - 42mm Offset.
Bonus - I'd go XL for sure on either one of those. I'm pretty close to the same height.
I've been on both of these. For those trails and at your height I would go XL. Ibis Bikes have short reach and large would feel cramped at your height. While the Ripley could do those trails you mention, Ripmo would do a much better job, especially on Enchilada. I'll be posting a review on these on my channel in a few weeks. Just have to edit them.
@@travelthenarrowtrail8660 And I'm left wondering what advantages/disadvantages using a 37mm offset might provide.
@@furion.. 37mm fork offset?
@@travelthenarrowtrail8660 Right, like Yeti does and I thought Ibis did on some of their bikes.
Great vid. I cant decide between between the Yeti SB130 and the Ripley. Even after test rides.
Hey thanks. That’s a tough spot to be in. They’re both amazing.
I’m deciding between those 2 bikes too!! Which did you ultimately go with?
@@deedeekaranian1777 I ordered a Ripmo
Good review and video. Did you run the same wheels on both or ride them how they are pictured? The def/aggressor on the ibis rims are not going accelerate or climb near as well as the enve Schwalbe comb on that Ripley.
Fair point. Yes the tire combo on the Ripley is faster/lighter. I have ridden the Ripley now with a few different tires and still think it out climbs the Ripmo by quite a bit.
Good to know.
Nice review. I am looking for a new bike. For me the question is not longer/shorter travel but more I want a trail bike who is very capable in XC use also. Would the Ripley be an option for me? You mention the small differences between the Ripmo and Ripley so that makes me think the Ripley is not the bike for me when it comes to XC use....
Sorry for the slow reply. Just now seeing this. You could very well use the Ripley for XC use. You're not going to be racing World Cups on it, but for general XC riding it climbs very well. That said, it's not an XC race bike. It would work for casual local XC races, but if you're looking to be competitive a true XC race bike would be a better option. If you don't plan on racing and just want a trail bike that you can do XC style riding on, there aren't maybe better options out there than the Ripley.
Nice efforts & input on some of the “best bikes ever made”! My thoughts and feelings are similar, just two amazing bikes that cover a ton of categories just between them both! That Ripley is outstanding on the climbs & really fun overall 🤘🏼The Ripmo would be just the perfect one bike to have for fun or to Race enduros on!
They both are so similar. Only on the extremes do their strengths shine. There a lot of overlap in that middle ground though. Hats off to Ibis.
Yea did the same review myself~ Ibis sure knows how to hit that balance point! Like your style too man, Cheers
Thanks man. Glad you liked the video!
Nice video. On the Ripley, were you on 2.35's or 2.6's?
2.3" Trail Kings
@@bikersedge That makes sense. Thanks for getting back to me. I just got my Ripley and put 2.6's on and also went for the 140mm mod to the fork. A bit in between the two bikes you tested but if I want to go faster, I'll throw on the 2.35's which I may do once the 2.6's wear out.
@@VanDimes how is that working out? Can't decide between the Ripley and Ripmo v2
@@ojh7025 I'm loving the Ripley 4. I guess it depends on your riding style. I ride central and north Jersey so it's anywhere from hard pack, roots, and some rock gardens. I'm not taking it off any drops more than a couple feet or up a lift. The Ripley is fast enough to keep up with the fast buddies going up and down. If you ride gnarly stuff a lot, perhaps the Ripmo is more suited for you, but as an all around trail bike, the Ripley is king. I tried the Pivot Trail 429, Santa Cruz Hightower, and Specialized Stumpjumper. They were all similar and the Ripley was the standout. I'm sure you'll be happy with either.
Our trails are very much like what you are riding. If you had to pick one, which would it be?
Ripmo because it suits my style (strong DH preference) better.
Im in between ripley and ripmo. Leaning more towards ripley. Maybe the SC tallboy with a 140 fox 36 is the best way to split the difference. Any thoughts??
Thats actually not a bad way to split the two. I'd be a little hesitant of overforking the TB. The seat tube isn't overly steep (I'm a tall guy so I really notice that kind of stuff) and it's going to get even slacker with the longer fork on it. I think another good option would be the Norco Optic. It falls between the two.
Nice review! Would you say that the Ripley is WAY better/more efficient at climbing than the Ripmo? If the Ripmo was built up with slightly more “trail” oriented tires/parts/etc., would it come close to closing the gap?
I’ve never ridden a longer travel 29er before, so I’m just a bit nervous about it feeling super sluggish on the climbs. I’ll try to get out and demo one soon, but just hoping you might offer your thoughts. Oh, and If it at all helps with your suggestions, I currently ride a 27.5” Santa Cruz 5010 with 130mm f/r travel that comes in at a not particularly svelte 29.5 lbs.
Thanks!!
With the tires and components on our build, yes the Ripley was way better. Granted, the Ripley I rode was about as lightweight and blingy as possible. I think you could do enough to lighten up a Ripmo though to make it climb quite a bit better.
I have a Ripmo and just demoed a Ripley last week. The Ripley climbs WAY better. It’s not close.
How much of that is due to the tires I don’t know, but even with light tires and wheels I’ve have a hard time believing it’d ever be close. I’ve been experimenting with lighter tires on my Ripmo myself. And after being on that Ripley it feels sluggish.
How would you compare the new Pike to the Fox 34 for the Ripley?
It's tough to make that call. The Pike is great on this bike though. It feels pretty stout.
That is an awesome trail!
Nice review
Why thank you. That trail is a blast.
How much do you weigh? I'm also 6'2", but weigh 210 pounds. I like the Ripley for my style of riding, but worried I might need the Ripmo since I'm heavy. Hoping you're close to 200 since you handled both bikes well.
I weigh a little over 185 all kitted up. I didn't feel like I was pushing the limits fo the bike at all.
I weight 220 and maybe about 225 with pack. Riding in Knoxville, Dupont, Front Range, Fruita, Moab, the one quiver is the Ripmo for sure. It might not climb as well as the Ripley or be as light, but its not that far off and gives you all that capability. I would check out Base Camp in Denver, they carry both these bikes for demo...
I just placed an order for a Ripmo and live in Knoxville. I’m 5’10 185. Absolutely torn whether to go with the Ripley for better climbing when I’m in the Rockies. I was hoping the Ripmo would be decent at the bike parks when I’m not doing trail rides. Thoughts?
@@michaelangelo747 Ripley and Ripmo are VERY similar. The Ripley is lighter basically due to lighter fork (34 vs 36) and rear shock (inline vs piggy back). I value climbing more, so went with Ripley - and love it. But Ripmo is a great climber for the class of bike - and stronger on the descents. Hard to go wrong either way. Base it on the trails you ride 90% of the time.
Nice review mate.Both look like nice bikes
Hey thanks. You really can't go wrong with either one!
Thanks for the video. BE is an awesome shop.
Curious about the tire setup you had on each? I own a Ripmo and I’m trying to lighten up the tires to make it a little more climbing friendly.
The Ripmo has the stock Minion/Aggressor combo. The Ripley had the Hans Dampf/Nobby Nic 2.3 combo. I think you could lighten up the tires a bit on the Ripmo to make it more on the trail side of things.
Thanks. That’s a pretty big difference in tires. I put a 2.6 Forekaster on the front and a 2.6 Rekon in the rear. Despite being “bigger”, those tires are a lot lighter and roll better. Definitely livened the bike up. I might try some 2.3 tires next.
@@eysikal I'd imagine they would. The same goes for the Ripley. With the right tire combo you could make it even more capable on the descents.
Yeah, I think the Ripley comes with Schwalbe 2.6 tires. But when I demoed it last week at Salt Cycles it was on 2.3
I would run 2.5 front on the Ripmo and 2.35-2.4 on the rear. Schwalbe's are the lightest fastest rolling. Depending on what type of trails you ride. You in Utah? For rocky mountain riding in Schwalbe I would go Magic Mary 2.35 front and 2.35 Nobby Nic rear. This will give you a fast poppy and snappy bike, able to climb fast with do it all tires. If you want all capable, I would run 2.5 Maxxis Asssegai front and Dissector or Agressor 2.4 rear. WTB are nice tires but much heavier even over Maxxis typically. Ripmo is a sick bike!
My Ripley 2020 blue steel is due this Thursday 😁
Lucky.
r u running the new sram wireless too? those bikes r mint!
Yes. The AXS stuff is really good.
What camera setup are you using? That's some pretty awesome POV footage!
Hey thanks. I used the GoPro Hero 7 with Hypersmooth. No gimbal needed.
Good review! Subscribed.
Thank you. We appreciate it.
I know the Ripley goes up and down well. But is it comfortable for long flat xc type rides too? With the steap seat tube and all
I prefer the riding position on bikes with steeper seat tubes. It leaves me less stretched out and helps prevent lower back, neck and shoulder issues. I'd be very happy taking the Ripley on longer rides. Thinking of True Grit Epic here. It would be the perfect bike for that.
@@bikersedge awesome. Have yet to try and bike with the updated geo. Looking forward to it.
If you are coming off a bike with say, 73ish Effective STA, you will feel cramped on a new bike, the top tube measurement is too low to really tell the story of where you saddle ends up. I went back to a rear offset dropper to fix the issue, so yeah on flat stuff, you will need to adjust your fit, going up steep stuff though, the steeper seat feels really good.
@@MTBGarage yes currently on a bike with 471 reach 73 sta and TT 665
@@blambmtb6189 I would be sure to get a long demo on a new geo bike and see how the changes feel.
Curse you!! I was all ready to pull the trigger on a Ripmo after my demo in Tahoe last week. Now I'm not sure... lol. Great video, not sure how you can talk at the same time your riding that trail. I'd have to edit my language ;)
Sorry to throw a wrench in your plans. I don't think you can go wrong either way. Both are great do it all trail bikes, each with a different emphasis.
To be honest I'm surprised that anything I say while riding makes any sense. Its the hardest part of these reviews.
Factory Tag placed on all Ripleys, *"This is the BEST Trail bike you can buy, this is NOT an Enduro bike"* - lol
Really? Where did you see this? I guess that would explain why many guys are putting a Works components angle set to slacken the HTA and make it more Enduro.
@@travelthenarrowtrail8660 In a premonition
Nice comparison! So I'm 6' 205 and ive rode the ripmo in a size large and liked it alot... trying to decide between the two bikes... would be my only bike. Based on your test would you take rider weight/size into consideration when chosing?
I'd take riding style and trail preference into account over size and weight. If you like climbing so you can turn around and ride downhill, go Ripmo. If you're more about spending long days on the trail, don't ride difficult trails every day and really enjoy climbing, go Ripley.
I just rode the ripley and had very similar results, I haven't ridden the ripmo in about 6 months, but from memory, it handles the bigger hits a lot smoother than the ripley. I am curious if the ripley could be fitted with a shock that would smooth that out though, it is a pretty short shock.
I don't know about fitting a different size shock. I'd certainly avoid over-shocking it. You could run a piggy back shock and that might help a bit. But at that point you may as well go Ripmo.
@@bikersedge I talked to a guy who built up a 27lb Ripmo, which is probably perfect, but that's a whole lotta $$ to get there!
@@bikersedge And I like the ripley's baby blue color! we know that's all that matters
@@MTBGarageOf course. It's the most important thing.
thats a nice trail.where are you?
It's a great trail. It's in Little Cottonwood Canyon.
Those envy wheels on the Ripley?
They sure are.
Where are these trails?
Little Cottonwood Canyon
I'm a little torn between the two. I currently ride a V1 Ripley. The V4 is a no brainer, I recently demo'd it. It's very polished and literally floats up and down.
The Ripmo on the other hand, tracks so well and is literally glued to the trail - never ridden such a stable bike.
I really love the nimbleness of the Ripley but am starting to think I can use the added stability of the Ripmo.
I think I'm going to have to demo the Ripmo one more time before deciding.
How did you like the fox 36 performance?
It's great. If you're not one to tinker with your suspension, it gives you a great fork at a great price. If you're looking for more adjustability the Performance Elite or Factory will be the ticket. Plus that Grip 2 damper is solid.
ripmo is 145 travel
You're right. I always forget about the extra 5.
Mojo 3 !!!
What is your daily bike ?
Right now I'm on the Santa Cruz Bronson.
Great Video!
I been riding the V1 Ripley for about 4 years now, and am starting to consider my next bike..
Back in January I went to the Ibis HQ and demo'd the Ripmo but was a bit hesitant because it wasn't as nimble as my Ripley on my initial ride. Also, the Ripmo was 5 pounds heavier. Nevertheless, I was impressed with it's stability and understand why it's so popular.
Fast forward to the new Ripley... I think it's the perfect balance, even though I didn't demo it yet.
I feel like I don't even need to demo it....I know what I'm getting. It's essentially a cross between the Ripmo and the Ripley. I'm getting the stability of the Ripmo with the nimbleness of the Ripley...sign me up!!
However, with all the brands out there I'm wondering if there are any other brands to consider such as: 1. Guerilla Gravity 2. Whyte 3. Devinci Django 2019? Decision decisions.....Lol...
One thing is for sure, the Ripley is a no brainer. It suits my riding style, local terrain, and Ibis is local for me.
With all this said, I'm still trying to find the best bang for my buck. Lately, prices in the MTB industry have been getting ridiculous!
Suggestions/Input would be appreciated!
Have a great weekend!
I see you guys - Biker's Edge - are based in Kaysville Utah and also carry Giant. To your question, Norbert, I ended up with a Giant Trance 29 Pro 1 and couldn't be happier (I'm on the Wasatch Back). I did demo the Yeti SB100, Ripley V3, Hightower and Trance alloy. BTW, it seems most demo's of the Trance 29 are with the alloy with the DPS, and the Pro with the DPX2 rides noticeably better! I'd consider that bike as well...especially if you can wrangle a demo on the DPX2 equipped version!
I ride an Ibis Ripley V1 also... I demo'ed a Django last year and found the suspension felt less active and made the bike feel deadened / damp. I wasn't terribly impressed.
@@joshkeith7659 I demo'd a Django last year too - not too impressed either. Most likely I'll get the new Ripley. I really like my V1, with the changes they made to the new version I'm certain it will be even better!
Go to 4:45 and listen, sounds expensive
What.... I definitely don't hear a pedal strike......