Niner AIR 9 27.5+ 2-Star GX Eagle Complete Mountain Bike - 2018

Hardtails are still a hoot and Niner's AIR 9 27. 5+ 2-Star GX Eagle Complete Mountain Bike brings big tires and progressive geometry to the party, proving that you don't have to have rear squish to have fun. Built up with a solid kit, this bike is packed full of value and would make an exceptional first bike or if you're looking to step up your mountain bike game. Niner starts this build with a hydroformed aluminum frame for a lightweight ride with excellent trail feel. Using a multi stage hydroforming process, a straight gauge tube is butted and mechanically formed in preparation for the hydroforming process. Up next is multi-stage hydroforming, which is a series of molds used in sequence to creates complex shapes. Multiple steps might take longer but Niner is able to reduce weight and achieve higher strength. Hydroforming utilizes molds and fluid pressure to form metal tubes into the shapes best suited to the locations on the bike. These molds are created to the desired end shape, and tubes are placed in them while high pressure hydraulic fluid is pumped in causing the tube to expand until it conforms to the desired shape. The 120mm FOX 34 Float Rhythm fork with Grip damper and EVOL air spring provide plush travel at the front and plenty of adjustment for dialing it in for your terrain and riding style. The tapered headtube sits at 68-degrees and lets you hang it out on the descents and still have the ability to pick just the right lines on uphill switchbacks. The stubby 17-inch chainstays let you slalom through the tight trees and makes manualing and wheelies a breeze. Built up in this configuration, this Air 9 features SRAM's GX Eagle 1x12 drivetrain giving you the same wide range as SRAM's higher tier offerings. Should you feel the need to run additional gearing, the frame can accommodate a front sideswing derailleur if bikepacking is in your future. Adding to the versatility, the PF30 bottom bracket shell can house Niner's BioCentric 30 for singlespeed u...