We've already extolled the virtues of the Outerbike concept, where curious consumers can test ride multiple bikes in a back-to-back format on nearby trails. (Check out highlights from 2014 Moab Outerbike.) But now the Moab, Utah-based operation has gone international, this year rolling out the first annual Outerbike Whistler. That's right, WHISTLER!!
For more about the area's mountain biking, check out our two-part Whistler Experience series here and here.
This British Columbia wonderland is home to the world's most famous bike park, and a massive network of easily accessed cross-country trails that range from ladida cruisers to tip-of-the-saddle pucker'fests that featured in the Enduro World Series. There is literally something for everyone - and every type of mountain bike.
Mtbr had the good fortune of having proverbial boots on the ground for Outerbike Whistler No. 1, which cost $220 per person and ran June 4-7. Company attendees included the likes of Ibis, Osprey, IXS/Spank, 100%, Transition, FOX, Kona, Norco, Durango Bike Company, SRAM, Rocky Mountain, Marin, SR Suntour and MRP. Besides getting a chance to sample wares from all these companies, the 335 registrants received a 3-ride punch pass for the Whistler Bike Park on Thursday and Friday, and could buy a full-day ticket for deep a discount. There were also plenty of parties and beer drinking at the Longhorn Saloon, après host site for this four-day lollapalooza of all things mountain bike.
While there was no way we could ride every bike, we did our best to check out some of the hottest offerings. Here's a look back at the rigs we rode, plus lots of sights and scenes from what is sure to become a Mecca-like event for mountain bikers. (If you're intrigued, check out the next Outerbike, slated for October 2-4 in Moab, Utah.)
2015 Transition Scout
We stood in line at the Transition booth hoping to ride the Patrol. But the only size Large tester they had left when it was our turn was this Scout. Pleasantly surprised is an understatement. This bike was exceptionally capable (and confidently stable) on the steep, technical trails that ring the valley around Whistler (click to enlarge).
Chainstay length is a stubby 425mm, which translates into a snappy, fun riding bike (click to enlarge).
This small Bellingham, Washington-based bike maker is staffed by a passionate group of riders who understand how a bike should ride - and be spec'd. Thus the 45mm Race Face Respond stem (click to enlarge).
Spec on this alloy frame $4900 build includes Shimano XT brakes, a 140mm RockShox Pike, and WTB Frequency Race i23 Wheels (click to enlarge).
Travel: 140mm front/125mm rear
Wheel Size: 27.5"
MSRP: $4900
More info: www.transitionbikes.com
Next Bike: Kona Process 167 »
2015 Kona Process 167
Highlights include a responsive 170mm RockShox Lyric fork and a slack 65-degree head angle (click to enlarge).
Chainstay length is 420mm. The drivetrain is a SRAM 1x blend with a 32-tooth chainring. As you can see from the crankarm, this bike has been ridden hard - just as it should be (click to enlarge).
Rear suspension is RockShox's Vivid Air RC2 167mm. It was plenty of squish for both in and out of the bike park (click to enlarge).
Travel: 170mm front/167mm rear
Wheel Size: 26"
MSRP: $5500CDN ($4484US)
More info: www.konaworld.com
The morning line-up. You had to get there early to assure you got the bike you wanted (click to enlarge).
Next Bike: Banshee Rune with MRP Suspension »
2015 Banshee Rune with MRP Suspension
The Raze2CR shock also offers a wide range of adjustability and provides the feel only a coil shock can produce (click to enlarge).
DT Swiss 471 wheels and WTB Vigilante 2.3 tires finish off this sweet custom build (click to enlarge).
Travel: 160mm front/160mm rear
Wheel Size: 27.5"
MSRP: Banshee Rune Frame $2250; MRP Stage Fork $969; MRP Raze 2CR Shock $552
More info: www.bansheebikes.com
More info: www.mrpbike.com
MRP also had a stock of Banshee Spitfire bikes to loan out (click to enlarge). Photo by Norma Ibarra
The team behind the event, including Whistler bike guru Grant Lamont, and Western Spirit Cycling owners Mark Sevenoff and Ashley Korenblat (click to enlarge). Photo by Norma Ibarra
SRAM was in the house showing off its latest drivetrain goods, and helping keep the demo bikes running smooth (click to enlarge). Photo by Norma Ibarra
Next Bike: Norco Aurum Carbon 7 »
2015 Norco Aurum Carbon 7
Prototype versions of this bike have already been through a full World Cup DH season underneath team riders Jill Kintner and Bryn Atkinson (click to enlarge).
Rear shock is the Rockshox Kage RC coil spring. The downtube (it's carbon remember) is well armored in case of rock strike or worse (click to enlarge).
Travel: 200mm front/200mm rear
Wheel Size: 27.5"
MSRP: $4230
More info: www.norco.com
Next Bike: Durango Bike Company Blackjack »
Durango Bike Company Blackjack
The Durango Bike Company definitely won the award for best demo display. Their lodging situation was also dialed (click to enlarge). Photo by Norma Ibarra
Travel: 130mm front/120mm rear
Wheel Size: 29er or 27.5"
MSRP: $4500-$6500
More info: durangobikecompany.com
IXS was showing off a new lightweight full face helmet. Key stats included improved ventilation at the chin bar, top and back of helmet. Claimed weight for a size M/L is 1100 grams. MSRP: $350 with availability set for early August (click to enlarge).
Spank and IXS are just some of the products distributed by the Gravity Cartel, which is based in Vancouver, Washington (click to enlarge). Photo by Norma Ibarra
Each day local guides led Outerbike Whistler attendees on a trail rides. Groups were split by ability level and then headed off into the woods for test biking fun (click to enlarge).
Next Up: More from Outerbike Whistler »
More from Outerbike Whistler
Ibis was out in force in Whistler, showing off its new Mojo HD3 as well as the tried and true Ibis Ripley. We managed to get our hands on a Ripley for the local Thursday night XC race. And while no great glory was achieved, that bike continues to be one of our favorite playful 29ers (click to enlarge). Photo by Norma Ibarra
The Ibis HD3 was arguably the most sought after trail bike at Outerbike Whistler. Sadly we didn't get our hands on one (click to enlarge).
With its world HQ in nearby Vancouver, B.C., Rocky Mountain was able to bring in a wide array of bikes (click to enlarge).
FOX was on hand doing consumer education on its new line of products (click to enlarge). Photo by Norma Ibarra
If you missed anything, FOX had these handy displays explaining what exactly is happening inside their forks and shocks (click to enlarge).
Osprey makes both men's, women's and enduro specific hydration packs. The new models have an easy-to-access tool role with its own pocket and bladders that have a rigid backing and a handle so they are easy to fill and dont barrel around inside the pack (click to enlarge).
For more about the area's mountain biking, check out our two-part Whistler Experience series here and here.
This British Columbia wonderland is home to the world's most famous bike park, and a massive network of easily accessed cross-country trails that range from ladida cruisers to tip-of-the-saddle pucker'fests that featured in the Enduro World Series. There is literally something for everyone - and every type of mountain bike.
Mtbr had the good fortune of having proverbial boots on the ground for Outerbike Whistler No. 1, which cost $220 per person and ran June 4-7. Company attendees included the likes of Ibis, Osprey, IXS/Spank, 100%, Transition, FOX, Kona, Norco, Durango Bike Company, SRAM, Rocky Mountain, Marin, SR Suntour and MRP. Besides getting a chance to sample wares from all these companies, the 335 registrants received a 3-ride punch pass for the Whistler Bike Park on Thursday and Friday, and could buy a full-day ticket for deep a discount. There were also plenty of parties and beer drinking at the Longhorn Saloon, après host site for this four-day lollapalooza of all things mountain bike.
While there was no way we could ride every bike, we did our best to check out some of the hottest offerings. Here's a look back at the rigs we rode, plus lots of sights and scenes from what is sure to become a Mecca-like event for mountain bikers. (If you're intrigued, check out the next Outerbike, slated for October 2-4 in Moab, Utah.)
2015 Transition Scout
We stood in line at the Transition booth hoping to ride the Patrol. But the only size Large tester they had left when it was our turn was this Scout. Pleasantly surprised is an understatement. This bike was exceptionally capable (and confidently stable) on the steep, technical trails that ring the valley around Whistler (click to enlarge).
[IMG alt="Transition uses what it calls Giddy Up suspension on all its trail bikes. That's a tongue-in-cheek reference to the common "Horse-Link" slip-up people often make. It's Horst-Link of course, and it's a proven and reliable design."]https://reviews.mtbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/OBW-transition4.jpg[/IMG]
Transition uses what it calls Giddy Up suspension on all its trail bikes. That's a tongue-in-cheek reference to the common "Horse-Link" slip-up people often make. It's Horst-Link of course, and it's a proven and reliable design (click to enlarge).
Transition uses what it calls Giddy Up suspension on all its trail bikes. That's a tongue-in-cheek reference to the common "Horse-Link" slip-up people often make. It's Horst-Link of course, and it's a proven and reliable design (click to enlarge).
Chainstay length is a stubby 425mm, which translates into a snappy, fun riding bike (click to enlarge).
This small Bellingham, Washington-based bike maker is staffed by a passionate group of riders who understand how a bike should ride - and be spec'd. Thus the 45mm Race Face Respond stem (click to enlarge).
Spec on this alloy frame $4900 build includes Shimano XT brakes, a 140mm RockShox Pike, and WTB Frequency Race i23 Wheels (click to enlarge).
Travel: 140mm front/125mm rear
Wheel Size: 27.5"
MSRP: $4900
More info: www.transitionbikes.com
Next Bike: Kona Process 167 »
2015 Kona Process 167
[IMG alt="Once again, we didn't intend to end up on this bike. But when all the other size Large testers were gone, we found ourselves on 26" wheels for the first time in a long time. Turns out the "little wheels" aren't dead just yet. Billed as DH/freeride/hardcore enduro machine, the Process 167 reminded us that new technology isn't always better technology. No, she didn't climb like a hardtail dream. But the smaller wheels provided a nimble ride in the tight, techy Whistler woods - and the bike didn't miss a beat when we hauled it to the top of the Whistler Bike Park for a few jump-filled laps."]https://reviews.mtbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/OBW-process.jpg[/IMG]
Once again, we didn't intend to end up on this bike. But when all the other size Large testers were gone, we found ourselves on 26" wheels for the first time in a long time. Turns out the "little wheels" aren't dead just yet. Billed as DH/freeride/hardcore enduro machine, the Process 167 reminded us that new technology isn't always better technology. No, she didn't climb like a hardtail dream. But the smaller wheels provided a nimble ride in the tight, techy Whistler woods - and the bike didn't miss a beat when we hauled it to the top of the Whistler Bike Park for a few jump-filled laps (click to enlarge).
Once again, we didn't intend to end up on this bike. But when all the other size Large testers were gone, we found ourselves on 26" wheels for the first time in a long time. Turns out the "little wheels" aren't dead just yet. Billed as DH/freeride/hardcore enduro machine, the Process 167 reminded us that new technology isn't always better technology. No, she didn't climb like a hardtail dream. But the smaller wheels provided a nimble ride in the tight, techy Whistler woods - and the bike didn't miss a beat when we hauled it to the top of the Whistler Bike Park for a few jump-filled laps (click to enlarge).
[IMG alt="When asked why stick with 26", the Kona rep explained that they believe in geometry before wheel-size hype. "The Entourage ripped because of its combination of short chainstays, low BB, 170mm travel, and slack head angle. To fit 27.5" wheels in this frame we would have had to lengthen the chainstay, raised the bottom bracket, or reduced the travel." And that wouldn't be any fun."]https://reviews.mtbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/OBW-process7.jpg[/IMG]
When asked why stick with 26", the Kona rep explained that they believe in geometry before wheel-size hype. "The Entourage ripped because of its combination of short chainstays, low BB, 170mm travel, and slack head angle. To fit 27.5" wheels in this frame we would have had to lengthen the chainstay, raised the bottom bracket, or reduced the travel." And that wouldn't be any fun (click to enlarge).
When asked why stick with 26", the Kona rep explained that they believe in geometry before wheel-size hype. "The Entourage ripped because of its combination of short chainstays, low BB, 170mm travel, and slack head angle. To fit 27.5" wheels in this frame we would have had to lengthen the chainstay, raised the bottom bracket, or reduced the travel." And that wouldn't be any fun (click to enlarge).
Highlights include a responsive 170mm RockShox Lyric fork and a slack 65-degree head angle (click to enlarge).
Chainstay length is 420mm. The drivetrain is a SRAM 1x blend with a 32-tooth chainring. As you can see from the crankarm, this bike has been ridden hard - just as it should be (click to enlarge).
Rear suspension is RockShox's Vivid Air RC2 167mm. It was plenty of squish for both in and out of the bike park (click to enlarge).
Travel: 170mm front/167mm rear
Wheel Size: 26"
MSRP: $5500CDN ($4484US)
More info: www.konaworld.com
The morning line-up. You had to get there early to assure you got the bike you wanted (click to enlarge).
Next Bike: Banshee Rune with MRP Suspension »
2015 Banshee Rune with MRP Suspension
[IMG alt="The is actually the personal bike of MRP marketing man Noah Sears, who was kind enough to loan it to us for a trail ride one afternoon. The Rune is your classic 27.5" enduro slayer that's optimized for 160mm of travel. And that's where MRP comes in. Sears specs his bike with a 160mm Stage fork and aggressive Raze2CR rear shock that has adjustments for spring preload, rebound damping, and low- and high-speed compression. The total package is a capable climber that can tackle almost any kind of descent."]https://reviews.mtbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/OBW-rune1.jpg[/IMG]
The is actually the personal bike of MRP marketing man Noah Sears, who was kind enough to loan it to us for a trail ride one afternoon. The Rune is your classic 27.5" enduro slayer that's optimized for 160mm of travel. And that's where MRP comes in. Sears specs his bike with a 160mm Stage fork and aggressive Raze2CR rear shock that has adjustments for spring preload, rebound damping, and low- and high-speed compression. The total package is a capable climber that can tackle almost any kind of descent (click to enlarge).
The is actually the personal bike of MRP marketing man Noah Sears, who was kind enough to loan it to us for a trail ride one afternoon. The Rune is your classic 27.5" enduro slayer that's optimized for 160mm of travel. And that's where MRP comes in. Sears specs his bike with a 160mm Stage fork and aggressive Raze2CR rear shock that has adjustments for spring preload, rebound damping, and low- and high-speed compression. The total package is a capable climber that can tackle almost any kind of descent (click to enlarge).
[IMG alt="The 34mm MRP Stage fork is offered in 26", 27.5" and 29er versions with travel from 120mm to 170mm. It's also highly adjustable, with knobs for air spring pressure, 8-position compression, rebound, and ramp control that allows the user to adjust the ending stroke curve of the air spring."]https://reviews.mtbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/OBW-rune4.jpg[/IMG]
The 34mm MRP Stage fork is offered in 26", 27.5" and 29er versions with travel from 120mm to 170mm. It's also highly adjustable, with knobs for air spring pressure, 8-position compression, rebound, and ramp control that allows the user to adjust the ending stroke curve of the air spring (click to enlarge).
The 34mm MRP Stage fork is offered in 26", 27.5" and 29er versions with travel from 120mm to 170mm. It's also highly adjustable, with knobs for air spring pressure, 8-position compression, rebound, and ramp control that allows the user to adjust the ending stroke curve of the air spring (click to enlarge).
The Raze2CR shock also offers a wide range of adjustability and provides the feel only a coil shock can produce (click to enlarge).
DT Swiss 471 wheels and WTB Vigilante 2.3 tires finish off this sweet custom build (click to enlarge).
Travel: 160mm front/160mm rear
Wheel Size: 27.5"
MSRP: Banshee Rune Frame $2250; MRP Stage Fork $969; MRP Raze 2CR Shock $552
More info: www.bansheebikes.com
More info: www.mrpbike.com
MRP also had a stock of Banshee Spitfire bikes to loan out (click to enlarge). Photo by Norma Ibarra
The team behind the event, including Whistler bike guru Grant Lamont, and Western Spirit Cycling owners Mark Sevenoff and Ashley Korenblat (click to enlarge). Photo by Norma Ibarra
SRAM was in the house showing off its latest drivetrain goods, and helping keep the demo bikes running smooth (click to enlarge). Photo by Norma Ibarra
Next Bike: Norco Aurum Carbon 7 »
2015 Norco Aurum Carbon 7
[IMG alt="We're admittedly a little over our skis when it comes to downhill bikes. When in Rome (or Whistler) you have to give it a shot. On test was the brand new Norco Aurum 7 Carbon, a 27.5" big hitter with 200mm of travel."]https://reviews.mtbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/OBW-norco1.jpg[/IMG]
We're admittedly a little over our skis when it comes to downhill bikes. When in Rome (or Whistler) you have to give it a shot. On test was the brand new Norco Aurum 7 Carbon, a 27.5" big hitter with 200mm of travel (click to enlarge).
We're admittedly a little over our skis when it comes to downhill bikes. When in Rome (or Whistler) you have to give it a shot. On test was the brand new Norco Aurum 7 Carbon, a 27.5" big hitter with 200mm of travel (click to enlarge).
[IMG alt="Norco says the 27.5" wheels are a huge competitive advantage for racing DH. You gain speed and its smoother on braking bumps, roots and rock gardens. We don't ride much downhill, but there was no denying this bike's ability to charge hard."]https://reviews.mtbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/OBW-norco3.jpg[/IMG]
Norco says the 27.5" wheels are a huge competitive advantage for racing DH. You gain speed and its smoother on braking bumps, roots and rock gardens. We don't ride much downhill, but there was no denying this bike's ability to charge hard (click to enlarge).
Norco says the 27.5" wheels are a huge competitive advantage for racing DH. You gain speed and its smoother on braking bumps, roots and rock gardens. We don't ride much downhill, but there was no denying this bike's ability to charge hard (click to enlarge).
Prototype versions of this bike have already been through a full World Cup DH season underneath team riders Jill Kintner and Bryn Atkinson (click to enlarge).
Rear shock is the Rockshox Kage RC coil spring. The downtube (it's carbon remember) is well armored in case of rock strike or worse (click to enlarge).
[IMG alt="Plenty of bite on these 2.5" Maxxis tires. Wheels are Sun Inferno 29 with Formula hubs."]https://reviews.mtbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/OBW-norco7.jpg[/IMG]
Plenty of bite on these 2.5" Maxxis tires. Wheels are Sun Inferno 29 with Formula hubs (click to enlarge).
Plenty of bite on these 2.5" Maxxis tires. Wheels are Sun Inferno 29 with Formula hubs (click to enlarge).
Travel: 200mm front/200mm rear
Wheel Size: 27.5"
MSRP: $4230
More info: www.norco.com
Next Bike: Durango Bike Company Blackjack »
Durango Bike Company Blackjack
[IMG alt="We didn't actually get to ride this bike, but heard lots of good things from other show goers. The stock build on the Durango Bike Company website is a full squish 29er with 2.3 tires, but the frame will also accept 2.8s on a 27.5" rims, which is what they were showing in Whistler."]https://reviews.mtbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/OBW-durango1.jpg[/IMG]
We didn't actually get to ride this bike, but heard lots of good things from other show goers. The stock build on the Durango Bike Company website is a full squish 29er with 2.3 tires, but the frame will also accept 2.8s on a 27.5" rims, which is what they were showing in Whistler (click to enlarge).
We didn't actually get to ride this bike, but heard lots of good things from other show goers. The stock build on the Durango Bike Company website is a full squish 29er with 2.3 tires, but the frame will also accept 2.8s on a 27.5" rims, which is what they were showing in Whistler (click to enlarge).
The Durango Bike Company definitely won the award for best demo display. Their lodging situation was also dialed (click to enlarge). Photo by Norma Ibarra
Travel: 130mm front/120mm rear
Wheel Size: 29er or 27.5"
MSRP: $4500-$6500
More info: durangobikecompany.com
IXS was showing off a new lightweight full face helmet. Key stats included improved ventilation at the chin bar, top and back of helmet. Claimed weight for a size M/L is 1100 grams. MSRP: $350 with availability set for early August (click to enlarge).
Spank and IXS are just some of the products distributed by the Gravity Cartel, which is based in Vancouver, Washington (click to enlarge). Photo by Norma Ibarra
Each day local guides led Outerbike Whistler attendees on a trail rides. Groups were split by ability level and then headed off into the woods for test biking fun (click to enlarge).
Next Up: More from Outerbike Whistler »
More from Outerbike Whistler
Ibis was out in force in Whistler, showing off its new Mojo HD3 as well as the tried and true Ibis Ripley. We managed to get our hands on a Ripley for the local Thursday night XC race. And while no great glory was achieved, that bike continues to be one of our favorite playful 29ers (click to enlarge). Photo by Norma Ibarra
The Ibis HD3 was arguably the most sought after trail bike at Outerbike Whistler. Sadly we didn't get our hands on one (click to enlarge).
With its world HQ in nearby Vancouver, B.C., Rocky Mountain was able to bring in a wide array of bikes (click to enlarge).
FOX was on hand doing consumer education on its new line of products (click to enlarge). Photo by Norma Ibarra
If you missed anything, FOX had these handy displays explaining what exactly is happening inside their forks and shocks (click to enlarge).
Osprey makes both men's, women's and enduro specific hydration packs. The new models have an easy-to-access tool role with its own pocket and bladders that have a rigid backing and a handle so they are easy to fill and dont barrel around inside the pack (click to enlarge).
https://reviews.mtbr.com/wp-[CENTER][/CENTER]
[IMG alt="When the riding was done, the beer drinking began. Photo by Norma Ibarra"]https://reviews.mtbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/MG_9793.jpg
When the riding was done, the beer drinking began (click to enlarge). Photo by Norma Ibarra
[IMG alt="When the riding was done, the beer drinking began. Photo by Norma Ibarra"]https://reviews.mtbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/MG_9793.jpg
When the riding was done, the beer drinking began (click to enlarge). Photo by Norma Ibarra