I ogle over the latest carbon bits and bobs — frames that weigh next to nothing and wheelsets that allow me to climb to the top of Mt Ventoux without breaking a sweat. But, at the end of the day, I’m a realist and I’ve honestly LOVED many journeyman bikes and components because they just plain work and they don’t require an Amex Black card. As it turns out, the folks at Ibis Cycles and I are on the same page and that onus has led to an all-new 2026 Ibis Ripley AF — the bike we all need.
Years ago, I rode the first version of the Ibis Ripley. It was smooth, fast and fun. But, since that time I’ve not had an opportunity to test subsequent revisions. I got a few months on the Ibis Exie USA last year, but really wanted something more along the lines of what the Ripley is — a long-travel XC/downcountry/trail bike. Now, for $3499-$3999, we can all enjoy a Ripley AF on any trail, any ride, any day of the week and still have enough money left over for a few curated upgrades (or just extra money for Starbucks).
The 2026 Ibis Ripley AF will be available in two builds, starting at $3449, with the following features:
- 29” Wheels – mullet compatible? via flip chip
- Optimized for 140mm forks
- 130mm DW-Link rear travel? (IGUS bushings in lower and bearings in upper link)
- Aluminum front and rear triangle? with up to 2.5″ tire clearance
- Available in five sizes S-XL, fits riders between 5’ and 6’7?
- ?Slack 64.9 head angle? with steep seat tube angles for proper climbing position (76.9-77.9)
- Threaded BB (73mm BSA)?
- ISCG 05 compatible with a removable adapter?
- Internal cable routing, featuring updated cable ports?
- 26oz water bottles fit on all sizes?
- In-frame storage system with included Stow bags?
- Molded rubber frame protection?
- Boost spacing?
- Complete builds in the 35-37 lb range (definitely not flyweight)
- Frame weight: 10.46 lbs with shock
- MSRP: $3449-$3999
More Info: Visit IbisCycles.com
