Niner Bikes Launches 3rd Gen RIP 9 29er Trailbike

The folks at Niner Bikes always have something up their sleeves at each major bike event. Now, at Sea Otter Classic, they are unveiling the 3rd-generation RIP 9. The first-gen featured straight tubes, then the second-gen model featured much larger diameter hydroformed tubes.

The new model again features large-diameter tubes, but this time they are formed using Airform technology. This process allows the tubes to be more uniform and stronger while reducing weight. In fact, the new frame drops at least a half pound off the previous design and comes in only .65 lbs (Medium) heavier than the RIP 9 RDO. That’s a pretty noteworthy accomplishment.

Carla Huckee, Niner Bikes PR Manager, added the following about this process:

“The big story here is the airforming process (officially called SPF (Superplastic Forming)). This process is similar to hydroforming, but uses super-heated air pushed into the tubes at high pressure while inside a mold, producing a tube shape to extreme precision. This new forming, plus the new forgings, are what enable us to take so much weight off.”

I’ve personally ridden both the previous models (2008 RIP 9 – 2011 RIP 9) extensively and pegged the previous generation RIP as the ultimate trailbike. I’m not the only one to feel that way and it looks as if the new RIP will continue that pedigree with the following features:

Airformed alloy full suspension trailbike – setting the standard in any wheelsize
125mm of patented CVA™ suspension, efficient in every chainring configuration
Compatible with 120-140mm forks
Tuned for CVA™ – Rockshox Monarch RT3 HV
ISCG Tabs and offset linkage design for chainguide compatibility
Forged suspension linkage and unique Niner Alloy Hardware
142x12mm rear spacing
Medium frame with shock, maxle hanger and seat collar – 7 LBS/3175 g, a half pound lighter over previous iterations.
$1849 Frame MSRP (includes shock, maxle and seat collar)
Complete 3-Star XT Bike $4199, Complete 1-Star X7 Bike $2999
Availability: Ships in early May