Tiny Rider, Big Wheels
I took some of the big wheeled bikes out for a spin at the dirt demo. First of all this year, there was a LOT more selection of 29 inch bikes for shorter riders, so someone out there is listening! So with no further ado, here’s 3 of them…
Spot Steel Hardtail SS 29er with new carbon belt drive
I liked this bike and I liked the belt drive as well. No slap, no skips and performed well for me even up the steep sections of the demo course. I could not appreciate any problems with friction. It is so quiet! The bike felt great and handled well, and looks beautiful. The cockpit was a tiny bit big for me on the 15.5 version, which was their smallest at the demo, but would fit anyone 5′4″ or taller well.
edit: Spot informs me that they also make a 15 inch frame. Yee haw!
Felt Nine Comp
This 29inch bike by Felt was great and fit well. Rode nicely, decent standover, and was one of my favorites. 15 inch frame size.
Salsa Mamasita
Nice job Salsa! This carbon fiber goodie was so smooth on the bumpy trail I actually looked back to make sure there wasn’t rear suspension on it! The standover on this bike is excellent and the climbing was fabulous. This was a 16″ frame but it felt smaller to me.
