Here's the place to get our Sergeant's some recognition.
Gonna get some Rocket Ron's and Q-Tube SL's and shed 2 pounds offa da bike. Also sending a pair of WTB Scrapers out to be anodized in either blue or orange. Would really like the rims to contrast rather than disappear in the tires.
They are comparable to a regular mountain bike. It's more of what one hangs on it. My complete has never been stripped down, so can't give a frame weight. It's not a heavy bike by any means, just has ride qualities that are hard to find. Good climbing ability with excellent manual/wheelie capability. That is rare in a production bike. It's a very solid feeling bike unlike some that I tried. Many others had some frame flex that was concerning, where the RSD did not. It has a light feel with amazing acceleration along with excellent nimble handling.
It's more about performance than gram counting. I would say, there's a healthy weight for a given frame and there's anorexic. Anorexic frames live a short life.
Gonna get some Rocket Ron's and Q-Tube SL's and shed 2 pounds offa da bike. Also sending a pair of WTB Scrapers out to be anodized in either blue or orange. Would really like the rims to contrast rather than disappear in the tires.
The whole idea is to eliminate the Hearse Black as much as possible. LBS is still trying to get the new orange Hope Evo4 Boost hubs for me. :/
Blue spoke nipples to keep it all together. Life for me is in coluh cause back and white is bland.
Got the Rocket Ron's coming in the next day or two. These should bring up the fuel economy nicely.
The whole idea is to eliminate the Hearse Black as much as possible. LBS is still trying to get the new orange Hope Evo4 Boost hubs for me. :/
Blue spoke nipples to keep it all together. Life for me is in coluh cause black and white is bland.
pretty much the same for me though the cost of purchasing new parts for a new bike sounds a bit hasty but it's gotta be done.
Stainless was sweet lookin too, I'm holding out on the big ticket bike for a custom frame from either Walt or John Hargedon. Then and only then can I get the BB height properly configured. My trials bike has ruined me for life!
Today Sarge is wearing his fresh pair of Rocket Ron's. They kicked some serious weight to the curb. 740g and 735g, not too shabby! Stuffed em with Q-Tube SL 26x2.7's at 150g vs. the 300g stock tubes. The Chrony's were over 1kg each, no more weight watchers for Sarge! Yay!!! Now the fuel economy has gone up to 8 miles per sammich.
Sarge is keeping an eye on my activities in case more gifts are lurking.
Sorry Fleas this damn computer has been doing strange things lately. To answer your question re: 2x, yep, it can be done. Currently, my bike is 30-36-11. It seems to work quite well here in the Rockies. The only change I see beneficial is a short cage RD to keep the works higher from the ground and nice and tight.
Hope Slower and I aren't the only RSD guys here... @.o
Slower, how you liking the dropper? I'm kinda considering one but I tend to ride with my seat down some rather than roadie height cause I'm always playing. Air is necessary between the tires and planet from time to time. :P
slower, thanks for the reply. I haven't really made the decision yet. It makes me think of the hiterite spring that was popular in the '80's. Certainly interesting how popular the droper posts are lately. Which post are you using?
slower, thanks for the reply. I haven't really made the decision yet. It makes me think of the hiterite spring that was popular in the '80's. Certainly interesting how popular the droper posts are lately. Which post are you using?
Man, I must be the only rider out there who's wondering if my recent first-ever dropper ($$$$) purchase was a mistake.
I've got a 9Point8 Fall Line on my Norco Torrent 7.2. The post work perfectly well (thumb lever could be a little closer to the bar rather than so elevated).
I'm typically a fast descender - never having issues sliding off the back of the saddle for steeps. I thought a dropper could make me faster. In many ways it does, it's certainly easier for larger jumps and drops as there's a lot more leg room to spring and absorb - especially for a HT. I feel like I can carve/work the rear wheel harder once I adjust to my issue below...
The one hickup I'm having is the sense of reduced control in the bike's lateral/tipping/leaning movements. With a regular post the elevated saddle was always a 'rudder' to control the bike's lateral movements with my thighs. It was also a point of contact/reference to tell me what the bike is doing. With the dropper activated that point of contact/information is now gone and I feel like the bike's flopping around beneath me. Simply put, more input is required through the bar and pedals to adjust/communicate the bike's lean rather than relying on my thighs and saddle.
I'll give it another month or two to see if I subconsciously adjust to the change.
Sounds kinda like my trials bike, no provision for a seat/post. I rarely raise my seat to the "roadie position" cause at that extension it's in the way.
Sarge had a Fruita ride today followed by a trail ride closer to home. The change was the tires. Going to the Rocket Ron Liteskin's was well worth it. Feels snappy with the lighter tires and Q-Tube SL's. Also noticed the energy reserve at the end of my ride. Quite a nice improvement in acceleration as well as generally more predictable out on the trail. Really enjoying the Sergeant, considering the illness that delayed bringing my bike home. I can't say that I recommend meningitis, not fun. Sarge has been an amazing addition to the collective! The trails await!
Certainly hope to see more peeps sharing their stories of their rides with their Sergeants...
Sarge is having lotsa fun out on the local trails sportin a pair of Rocket Ron LiteSkin's. Man, does a good pair of tires make a difference! Didn't have the camera handy for todays foray up on the Cattle Creek trail system, unfortunately. Sarge climbs the hills very nicely and still is very light on the front wheel. So much fun railing the single track that the dirtbikers were so kind to create! Great flow=wide open throttle runs in the shade of a pinion forest. Sarge is happy now that he got all kinds of dusty from a good shakedown!
tedo, I couldn't be happier with my Sarge! Your bike is looking great!
I'm working on polishing out a pair of Scrapers for my wheel build later this week. Gotta get rid of the blackout wheels for some color and contrast.
Glad you got a Sergeant! How ya liking the SS setup?
I love my RR LiteSkin tires cause they are springy and trialsy for play time.
tedo, I couldn't be happier with my Sarge! Your bike is looking great!
I'm working on polishing out a pair of Scrapers for my wheel build later this week. Gotta get rid of the blackout wheels for some color and contrast.
Glad you got a Sergeant! How ya liking the SS setup?
I love my RR LiteSkin tires cause they are springy and trialsy for play time.
The SS is awesome. Rode some pretty advanced trails yesterday, and I found I rode much quicker through tech sections. I needed to keep the forward momentum going, as opposed to traditional staying seated - pedaling... The 25 minute climb was pretty brutal though... but I loved it.
My Rocket Rons are the snakeskins. We have tons of rocks in Vermont. They were on my 27+ Beargrease, and have been holding up great thus far.
Can't believe the incredible deal this bike is. Super playful. Thanks for your early help Wade!
Pivot Trail429
Surly Wednesday
RSD Catalyst all road bike
I need to follow up with StokliBoy to find out when the SS only party is happening at the Castle (Read: StokliBoy's Property) Should be a great time rippin singletrack and BBQ with all the fixin's. I'll be giving him shyt when the 9'ers only party happens cause Sarge's feet are tall enough to qualify even if it does say 27.7x3.0 on the sides of his shoes!
"Single speed makes ya strong, fast" (Courtesy of StokliBoy)
Glad you fell in love with a sweet ride! The SS conversion couldn't be easier!
Just confirmed my Sergeant Ti frame purchase with Alex at RSD! Had a very hard time deciding on frame. Almost went with the Canfield EPO. I'm setting it up as a 29er, with 2.8 tires. Alex talked me into the Sergeant over the Big Chief. Here is the pic Alex sent me. According to Alex, this is a Sergeant set up as 29er + with 3.0's.
Anyone have any suggestions on what fork and drive train I should consider? Leaning toward a Pike.
Also, I'm clueless as to what wheels to run on this. ... Something with a 40mm inner width? Any input much appreciated. Really stoked on this build.
There's a few choices on that one! I'm currently working on a pair of Scrapers for Sarge.
Velocity Dually @ 39mm inner, 45 outer. My buddy is running a pair of em on his Krampus and has no complaints thus far. He's not had any issues with em and rides very aggressively. You oughtta be very pleased with the playful geometry of the Sergeant. I thrive on the versatility of mine as a 27.5 with the 140mm fork. BB height is excellent. Pike should serve you well. The Manitou is very well built as well. Clean and slop free! The 27.5x3.0's are nearly as tall as my fatty with Bud/Lou and the nimble feeling when I rode the Sergeant and, well, I was hooked and adopted a bike!
There's a few choices on that one! I'm currently working on a pair of Scrapers for Sarge.
Velocity Dually @ 39mm inner, 45 outer. My buddy is running a pair of em on his Krampus and has no complaints thus far. He's not had any issues with em and rides very aggressively. You oughtta be very pleased with the playful geometry of the Sergeant. I thrive on the versatility of mine as a 27.5 with the 140mm fork. BB height is excellent. Pike should serve you well. The Manitou is very well built as well. Clean and slop free! The 27.5x3.0's are nearly as tall as my fatty with Bud/Lou and the nimble feeling when I rode the Sergeant and, well, I was hooked and adopted a bike!
Congratz, Dood!! And welcome to the fray!!
Alex at RSD has a pair of 'Mulefut 50mm' wheels he'll sell me. Not sure what to do on wheels. The Mulefut's seem to be a bit on the heavy side, but Alex says they work good. Seems like a lot of people run the scraper rims on 29er plus setups. For now, I'm inclined to go with a prebuilt wheelset, but maybe down the line I'll lace up some carbon wheels from Light Bicycle on my own..haven't done it in a while but my last set came out true and strong. Not sure about how well the carbon rims will be without beadlocks with such big tires running at such low pressure.
Also, I've no experience with Manitou but the 29+ Manitou Magnum Comp is also something that Alex at RSD is offering me for my build. Anyone know much about this fork? Seems to have good reviews...
Basically, since I'm blowing my wad on the Ti frame, for now, I kinda have to skimp on other stuff. I've got Enve bars on my current bike so those will be employed...
The Mag is a well made and thought out fork. Manitou is turning out a good product. The MuleFut 50SL's are a great wheelset for the money and tubeless well too. Tires are difficult to unseat on em. They are very durable as well. They might carry a little weight although, I don't see it as a deal breaker. Now ya have to consider retreads...
The Mag is a well made and thought out fork. Manitou is turning out a good product. The MuleFut 50SL's are a great wheelset for the money and tubeless well too. Tires are difficult to unseat on em. They are very durable as well. They might carry a little weight although, I don't see it as a deal breaker. Now ya have to consider retreads...
Thanks Man. I'll go with the Manitou then. Maybe wheels too.
Thanks Man. I'll go with the Manitou then. Maybe wheels too.
What in heck are 'retreads'?
I get it : 'retreads' because of my poverty after spending for the Ti instead of the aluminum! Yeah, yur right Bro. I'm close to broke now. But the Ti frame kept calling out to me...a voice calling out in the wilderness... Truth be told, I'd have gone with a 'steel' Sergeant if they had one, but not aluminum. Not for a hardtail. This 'il be my first hardtail since the mid 90's...so it's got to have some 'give'. I ride, on average, of 40 hours mountain miles per week...so it's got to be Ti for comforts sake.
A few years ago I got majorly f*%ked up. Hurt my back really really bad from a booby trap in-trail while riding out East. The day before I rode the same trail and so 2 days later, I had some good speed going and didn't expect someone to have loaded up a landing zone with big boulders and logs...which I hit. It's a credit to Knolly bikes that it suffered zero damage...but not me man. I couldn't walk, literally for near a month...and it's still not right to this day... sucks.
So that's my reason for putting out for the Ti frame. Nothing to do with anything other than extra compliance for my back's sake.
Retreads, retreads, ridin on retreads! (Courtesy of a friend that worked at a tire shop). I know the feeling, I've been running on junk knees and scoliosis for 30 years. Then the kidney disease was diagnosed in 06 and in 14 had a massive heart attack and heart surgery. 30 days after surgery was back on a bike, admittedly riding like a 4 banger with burnt valves, but riding! That's what happens when ya toss a blood clot in the defending vessel on the left ventricle. Damn oil filter fouled the oil pump! The only thing I do pay much attention to is what the heart tells me. Back to running like a V8 now and the cardiologist gave the green light to redline my bike all i want/can.
Have a look around on some of the websites for tires and call on Alex for your fork and wheels, he'll take good care of ya. Also have a look on eBay, I got my NN TrailStar's 65 smackers each.
Innova Transformers are 42 each here. https://www.universalcycles.com/shop...&category=5793
Retreads, retreads, ridin on retreads! (Courtesy of a friend that worked at a tire shop). I know the feeling, I've been running on junk knees and scoliosis for 30 years. Then the kidney disease was diagnosed in 06 and in 14 had a massive heart attack and heart surgery. 30 days after surgery was back on a bike, admittedly riding like a 4 banger with burnt valves, but riding! That's what happens when ya toss a blood clot in the defending vessel on the left ventricle. Damn oil filter fouled the oil pump! The only thing I do pay much attention to is what the heart tells me. Back to running like a V8 now and the cardiologist gave the green light to redline my bike all i want/can.
Have a look around on some of the websites for tires and call on Alex for your fork and wheels, he'll take good care of ya. Also have a look on eBay, I got my NN TrailStar's 65 smackers each.
Innova Transformers are 42 each here. https://www.universalcycles.com/shop...&category=5793
Thanks for the Input Brother.
I was thinking how much this particular bike would be the perfect candidate for the new Sram Eagle 1X12...at least for me. I myself ride to and from the trail heads where I live, which involves a fair amount of road miles...plus I take my bike to the gym on occassion---more road miles, ...plus to the store---more road miles, so I actually make use of a wide variety of gears, hence, my bikes, Knolly Chilcotin included, are currently run 2X. But with the 42 and 50 cog out back, I could nearly duplicate 2x and could run a 34 up front...while still being able to climb just about any conceivable tech trail. Of course the problem it COST...$$$$
I'd have to have an ebay sale to muster up enough funds for an Eagle drive train. Hard to justify it, but if I were to sell all of my motorcycle gear...which I havn't used in nearly 2 years since selling my last motorbike...I'd likely have enough to go for it. Any input on this rash decision....?
That will be a nice setup. The Mulefut are nice solid rims. IMHO worth a few grams for reliability.
Glad to see you went Ti, no reason to have the same AL frame as BR. Lol.
Im not a SRAM Person so may I suggest the XTR 11speed setup.
That was quick!
Well Brother, I think I'm done with Shimano for mountain. I've not been too pleased with my XTR mountain set ups. They should be far smoother for what I paid.
After riding a X1 Sram I was really impressed with two things : Easier, and silent shifting, and sloppy / mis-timed shifts were FAR smoother than they prove to be on my XTR. I've been a full-on shimano man since the late 90's....but it may be time to go for the German kit for mountain setups.
Well Brother, I think I'm done with Shimano for mountain. I've not been too pleased with my XTR mountain set ups. They should be far smoother for what I paid.
After riding a X1 Sram I was really impressed with two things : Easier, and silent shifting, and sloppy / mis-timed shifts were FAR smoother than they prove to be on my XTR. I've been a full-on shimano man since the late 90's....but it may be time to go for the German kit for mountain setups.
And that is exactly why SRAM & Shimano are still in biz. We all have preferences which is good for the market!
According to Alex, this is a Sergeant set up as 29er + with 3.0's.
I wasn't aware the Sergeant could accommodate 29+. Is that only for ti-frame models? or applicable to the standard aluminium? If common to the aluminium, I will go buy the Sergeant. I was torn between this and something like the Stache 7 which takes both sizes.
I wasn't aware the Sergeant could accommodate 29+. Is that only for ti-frame models? or applicable to the standard aluminium? If common to the aluminium, I will go buy the Sergeant. I was torn between this and something like the Stache 7 which takes both sizes.
According to Alex the owner of RSD, the Sergeant can be run 27.5 plus, 29er, or 29+. If set up as 29+, the bottom bracket height rises by 10mm. This is fine by me, as I'm sick and tired of pedal strikes where I do the majority of my riding here in Bellingham.
Here is the pic sent to me by Alex of a Sergeant set up as 29+. I posted it earlier but here it is again. There's no difference between the specs for the Ti and Alum...just a drop in weight and of course some nice Ti-'give' to the back end.
Others might be bothered by this setup thinking it might be too short a wheelbase, or the xtra 10mm rise in bb height, but my style of riding is mostly super fast going uphil, and moderate on the downs. My jumping and freeride days are over...lost interest, and also have a former back injury that only flairs up if I start riding too aggressive on the downs... I'm more into all day rides in the saddle, lots of climbs, lots single track, mid size jumps are ok, but no more big stuff.
...So for me the 29+ Sergeant will be perfect. Alex talked me out of the Big Chief 29+ and pushed me toward a Sergeant with 29+ setup...as I'm 5'8" and the Sergeant will end up being more manouverable for me.
I wasn't aware the Sergeant could accommodate 29+. Is that only for ti-frame models? or applicable to the standard aluminium? If common to the aluminium, I will go buy the Sergeant. I was torn between this and something like the Stache 7 which takes both sizes.
There's no difference between the specs for the Ti and Alum...just a drop in weight and of course some nice Ti-'give' to the back end.
This doesn't match what Alex told me regarding questions I asked about geometry earlier this week:
"Thank you for your email.
That is correct. The Ti version is 66.5, while the Alu is 68.
The wheelbases for medium are different for both
Alu – 1124.8 shortest and 1136.8 longest
Ti – 1158.5 shortest and 1171.5 longest
The aluminum bikes are in stock and the Ti frames are arriving tomorrow
Let me know if you have any other questions
Alex | RSD Bikes"
Based on the claimed 29+ compatibility, I'm assuming this is achieved with the dropouts in the rearmost position to gain the additional clearance.
This doesn't match what Alex told me regarding questions I asked about geometry earlier this week:
"Thank you for your email.
That is correct. The Ti version is 66.5, while the Alu is 68.
The wheelbases for medium are different for both
Alu – 1124.8 shortest and 1136.8 longest
Ti – 1158.5 shortest and 1171.5 longest
The aluminum bikes are in stock and the Ti frames are arriving tomorrow
Let me know if you have any other questions
Alex | RSD Bikes"
Based on the claimed 29+ compatibility, I'm assuming this is achieved with the dropouts in the rearmost position to gain the additional clearance.
Good to know. I didn't ask Alex this particular question, I was more concerned about what to do considering my height. I had no interest in the aluminum frame and was only interested in the Ti, so maybe that's why.
I wonder what reason there was for the design difference????
Good to know. I didn't ask Alex this particular question, I was more concerned about what to do considering my height. I had no interest in the aluminum frame and was only interested in the Ti, so maybe that's why.
I wonder what reason there was for the design difference????
I didn't ask, because I had assumed the TI geometry table had some typos, based on the AL & SS frames being identical.
Does anyone know what the warranty is on RSD bikes...? For the cost of the Ti frame I'm kinda expecting it to have a strong warranty. Ti frames have been known to crack, it's not common, but it does happen...just wanting to cover all the bases before I make my final decision on my build. I sure do wish I could test ride one of these before committing.
BansheeRune : in on of your earlier posts you said that this bike 'wheelies' easier than any bike you've owned. I'm wondering if you think that will make it hard to keep the front end planted on techy climbs...which I do a fair amount of here in the PNW...?...?
Not in the least. Sarge climbs like a pro. It also makes an easy reposition of the front effortless. Consider that part of "gettin trialsy". I find that Sarge feels the most comfortable to manual or wheelie. There's nothing more euphoric than a proper manual, nothing!!
I'll follow up with Alex on the warranty question. I believe he would gladly take care of any issues as he's very intent with the biz.
For those wondering: All of our frames carry a lifetime warranty for any manufacturer's defects, as long as you are the original owner with a receipt showing your name and the shop name.
Quick clarification: The Aluminum and Ti have different geometry. The Ti also has slightly longer stays which can be slammed all the back to allow 29+ wheels to fit, which cannot be achieve with the Aluminum version.
2. I'm not a 'tall' person, not short, but not tall. 5'8"
3. My riding is quite varied and includes a heck of a lot of tight / techy stuff and according to Alex, the 'Sergeant' is more nimble when set up as a 29+...especially for someone my height.
4. The Ti Sergeant can be set up three ways : As a 27.5+, as a regular 29er, and as a full 29+ with 3.0's.
I plan on running it with 2.8's as a 29er+
So this is why I say that 'Alex' talked me into running the Sergeant over waiting for a Big Chief Ti. Makes more sense for me, and there's a great chance that I WILL in fact build up a set of 27+ wheels and use it that way too...
Trek suspension engineer, Ted Alsop, puts it this way :
“27.5+, ideally, has the diameter of a 29×2.3 tire, but to get there, you have to give it a really tall sidewall. The bead-to-bead measurement–that’s the actual width of the tire if you pressed it flat and measured from one bead to the other–is about 15 millimeters wider than a 29+ tire. Relative to the rim, the 27.5+ tire is actually taller than the 29+ tire, which is why we’ve found that the 27.5+ tires that we’ve ridden have a lot more of an un-damped, fatbike tire bounce to them and don’t corner as well at lower pressures. The 29+ tire, which is actually a lower profile, shorter sidewall tire, has less of that uncontrolled bounce to it.”
If I can find a way to afford it, in the near future I may run my Sergeant with 27.5+ wheels too. .. But for now, I want to ride it 29+. I'm figuring 2.8's.
I can't bring myself to give up any air volume. It just feels amazing with the pressure @ 10-12 psi on some of my favorite full throttle rail trails.
3.0 for a good time!
Gotta ask, what kind of riding style are these peeps? Clydesdales or light riders?
My approach is to ride light and avoid the basher style. So yeah, tires inflated for sand hitting the hardpack are gonna be fatbikish and squirmy.
No need to hurry with the B+ wheels as long as you have the 29+ going, blast the miles and squirrel away some dough for the other wheels.
I can't bring myself to give up any air volume. It just feels amazing with the pressure @ 10-12 psi on some of my favorite full throttle rail trails.
3.0 for a good time!
Gotta ask, what kind of riding style are these peeps? Clydesdales or light riders?
My approach is to ride light and avoid the basher style. So yeah, tires inflated for sand hitting the hardpack are gonna be fatbikish and squirmy.
No need to hurry with the B+ wheels as long as you have the 29+ going, blast the miles and squirrel away some dough for the other wheels.
I totally see your point. I just thought I'd share some alternative input from an actual designer on the Stasche...which is a GREAT bike actually.
I ordered a set of Bontrager Chupacabra 3.0's for my Sergeant and they're on the way.
Everything should be here ready for assembly some time mid to late next week!
I'll post some pics of things as they arrive! A handful of people here in Bellingham are anxiously awaiting this bike! Heck...even my landlord is waiting to come and see the Ti frame!
It's now official! My Ti Sergeant, Manitou+ Fork, and Mulefut wheels are on the way!!!!
Yowee!
I am heading out East for the weekend. I am planning on a swing through Toronto to ride a TI Sergeant on Monday. I too would lean toward the Manitou over a Rockshock fork. However, my dislike of Rockshock comes from a Sid I had like 10 years ago. Nice to see he gave you the option.
I am heading out East for the weekend. I am planning on a swing through Toronto to ride a TI Sergeant on Monday. I too would lean toward the Manitou over a Rockshock fork. However, my dislike of Rockshock comes from a Sid I had like 10 years ago. Nice to see he gave you the option.
Today's Rockshock's are nothing at all comparable to what they were 10 years ago. The 'Pike' is an incredible, problem free solution. Three of my buddies run them, problem free, great adjustment.
I myself have been running on Bos forks, and ONLY Bos forks for the last 4 years. They blow everything else out of the water in terms of 1. how smooth they work, 2. How very low their maintenance schedule is [once every two seasons..if not more], and 3. Their adjustments actually 'do' what they're supposed to do, aka : they ACTUALLY WORK.
Fox, to me is garbage. Fox shocks and forks are crap out of the box, and only come alive AFTER you send them to a tuner. If you doubt this, then you have never felt the difference between how a Fox fork or shock 'feels' / 'works' AFTER it has been tuned. By comparison, 'Bos' forks feel like they have already been to a 'tuner' straight out of the box.
If I could get my hands on a 29+ Bos fork I will definitely do so. For now, I had to save some $$$ due to the fact that I utterly blew through most of my budget in order to wrangle me a Ti frame!!!
I myself will NEVER buy a new Fox product ever again. But keep in mind Brother that 'I' tend to be pretty picky about Fork and Shock function....having spent many years Club Racing Road-Race Motorcycles [Yamaha / Ducati]. I set up all of my friends suspensions because my road racing experience translates well to mountain bike sus. The problem people have when it comes to mtb sus. set up, is that people tend to 'judge' the bike set up by how it feels in the garage. Most people tend to under dampen the rebound to the extent that they will never---know---how GREAT it CAN feel to ride a bike properly damped.
I am heading out East for the weekend. I am planning on a swing through Toronto to ride a TI Sergeant on Monday. I too would lean toward the Manitou over a Rockshock fork. However, my dislike of Rockshock comes from a Sid I had like 10 years ago. Nice to see he gave you the option.
Oldinsloe, I think you'll be in for a great surprise! I can't begin to tell ya how much I love my Sergeant! Even if he does shout "Ten-Hut" from time to time! The performance is very playful, while being very good at long rides and climbing is awesome. No two ways about it, the bike is just plain great performance.
For the dough the Sergeant is a far better value than most others in it's class, hands down.
Originally Posted by Skrool
Today's Rockshock's are nothing at all comparable to what they were 10 years ago. The 'Pike' is an incredible, problem free solution. Three of my buddies run them, problem free, great adjustment.
I myself have been running on Bos forks, and ONLY Bos forks for the last 4 years. They blow everything else out of the water in terms of 1. how smooth they work, 2. How very low their maintenance schedule is [once every two seasons..if not more], and 3. Their adjustments actually 'do' what they're supposed to do, aka : they ACTUALLY WORK.
Fox, to me is garbage. Fox shocks and forks are crap out of the box, and only come alive AFTER you send them to a tuner. If you doubt this, then you have never felt the difference between how a Fox fork or shock 'feels' / 'works' AFTER it has been tuned. By comparison, 'Bos' forks feel like they have already been to a 'tuner' straight out of the box.
If I could get my hands on a 29+ Bos fork I will definitely do so. For now, I had to save some $$$ due to the fact that I utterly blew through most of my budget in order to wrangle me a Ti frame!!!
I myself will NEVER buy a new Fox product ever again. But keep in mind Brother that 'I' tend to be pretty picky about Fork and Shock function....having spent many years Club Racing Road-Race Motorcycles [Yamaha / Ducati]. I set up all of my friends suspensions because my road racing experience translates well to mountain bike sus. The problem people have when it comes to mtb sus. set up, is that people tend to 'judge' the bike set up by how it feels in the garage. Most people tend to under dampen the rebound to the extent that they will never---know---how GREAT it CAN feel to ride a bike properly damped.
Good Luck on your potential Sergeant purchase!!!!
My 36 Talas has been going since new in 2009 with no issues and is still silky smooth. My 4X bike has had many years of Keystone runs as well as Valhalla season pass since it opened as a bike park.
This little fellow is very agile and built to take the abuse!
Oldinsloe, I think you'll be in for a great surprise! I can't begin to tell ya how much I love my Sergeant! Even if he does shout "Ten-Hut" from time to time! The performance is very playful, while being very good at long rides and climbing is awesome. No two ways about it, the bike is just plain great performance.
For the dough the Sergeant is a far better value than most others in it's class, hands down.
My 36 Talas has been going since new in 2009 with no issues and is still silky smooth. My 4X bike has had many years of Keystone runs as well as Valhalla season pass since it opened as a bike park.
This little fellow is very agile and built to take the abuse!
Nice ride Wade!
As for me, my freeride bike is now gone : Knolly Delerium T. Still have the Chilcotin, but not for long in all likelihood. Regarding Fox products : When I shell out $1,300 for a fork that boasts to be the best, I EXPECT $1,300. worth of excellence, and this excellence, to me, mainly has to do with adjustment viability. Well, never has any Fox fork passed the test. Yeah, they offer ample 'clicks' for Compression, Rebound, slow, fast, ...problem is... I EXPECT to 'feel' / notice a difference at a margin of every two clicks. Not so with Fox. More like a very 'mild' difference with every 6 or 7 clicks ---regardless of what I'm adjusting.
With Bos, you FEEL and NOTICE a REAL difference with every two clicks of adjustment. And the ONLY time I've experienced this with a Fox product ---is AFTER it's had a $300 dollar tune by a tuner like Push etc. THIS--is not satisfactory to me.
But again, I did say I was on the picky side. ...Picky meaning : If you have the balls to charge me such an exorbitant / wallet draining price for your product, then it SHOULD pass muster on ALL accounts and MATCH that price. Fox does not do this. ..Ohlins does this. ..Bos does this. ..Penski does this. As of late, Rockshox seems to come pretty close. ..I'd have no problem and voice zero complains --IF-- Fox's prices were HALF, literally, what they dare to charge...and mind you, usually, when it comes to forks and shocks, I only buy 'thee' top offering / highest model. ..But heck, if you're happy with what they've given you Wade...good on you Man. With 'me', I deem it as my right, nay, my obligation to be somewhat of a 'dick' when someone dares charge me a 'dick' price. ...The higher the price I'm forced to pay for something that I expect to be 'thee' best offering, all the MORE inclined I am to pick it to pieces. ....Might have something to do with the fact that I come from a Product Design backround.... Blah, blah...
On another note, this is what's on the way for Sarge :
Plan to run my Hope Brakes with Steel braid lines, ..but had to order a new line for the rear due to the size requirements of the Sergeant frame.
I'll also run my Enve Carbon bars with Straightline shorty Stem
May try running it without my dropper for a while just to see if I really need it on this bike...?...? Otherwise my KS Lev is ready for deployment...and works flawlessly.
The only fork that a never revalved has been the 36. The Manitou is gonna be the second the I don't need to revalve.
I'll never let go of my beloved little Banshee. He's just too fun to play with! I paid 1500 for the bike following Interbike 2008. The rune was a demo bike at the show and I managed to get a village deal. That price wouldn't cover the retail on the frame shock and fork. Size medium and works so well for Valhalla. Valhalla has very nicely done trails that are semi groomed. There are so many booters that a run is tiring but worth every second it lasts!
Sarge is wearing his Nobby Nics for an adventure ride planned for tomorrow. The tires just look so mean! Alex and I agree that the NN's are like riding on velcro.
I so rarely ride Sarge with his seat all the way down I don't know if a dropper is on the radar. I never ride the seat at roadie height because it's in the damn way when I try to play. I have ridden many years this way and it's where my muscle memory is programmed. I can still bust a cadence of 195 with it there so good to go. Cruising cadence for me is 130-160 and it keeps my junk knees happy. Perhaps if I find a dropper that doesn't let the seat wiggle, I'll become more interested. Somehow the dropper post brings back memories of the ole height rite spring from the late 80's.
I set up all of my friends suspensions because my road racing experience translates well to mountain bike sus. The problem people have when it comes to mtb sus. set up, is that people tend to 'judge' the bike set up by how it feels in the garage. Most people tend to under dampen the rebound to the extent that they will never---know---how GREAT it CAN feel to ride a bike properly damped.
Care to offer a layman's guide to fork set up for us?
Read the manual on the fork, set it's sag as recommended and work from there.
One thing about fork setup is compression damping. If you are consuming the entire travel of the fork the compression damping is set too light and/or air pressure too low. Rebound should not make it feel as though you are being ejected after a deep compression of the fork.
The time for fast rebound is on washboard surfaces. Slow rebound will get into a "Static lockout". The fork never recovers before the next hit and stays down part way in it's travel and thus doesn't compress and rebound as it should. On average rides you will want the rebound slower so the fork doesn't tend to eject you.
It does take a little time and trial and error on getting the adjustments made. It's better to make one adjustment and ride and make another adjustment. this way you know what changed and can resolve it as you progress.
You can set the sag as you prefer it later, just use the recommendation as a baseline to get started.
Ti Sergeant Frame, wheels, and fork arrive tomorrow!
I suggest you park yourself in the driveway with a coffee and wait for the man in brown to deliver.. God knows they always try to get out of delivering the big boxes by saying you weren't home..
I suggest you park yourself in the driveway with a coffee and wait for the man in brown to deliver.. God knows they always try to get out of delivering the big boxes by saying you weren't home..
You're so right man! I've already got a lasso ready to go just in case he tries to make a fast break.
How long for a delivery on a Sergeant should be expected?
Took mine an entire week to go from Ontario Canada to upstate Washington [Bellingham]. Very slow. Tracking states delivery for 'today'. This is the 7th day.
Keep getting drawn back to this thread. I think it's a combination of Banshee's lust for them and the anticipation on Skrool's TI build. Either way I've had a battle in my head between a Sergeant or plus wheelset for my already tricked out fatty. I'm blessed to have such problems!
Took mine an entire week to go from Ontario Canada to upstate Washington [Bellingham]. Very slow. Tracking states delivery for 'today'. This is the 7th day.
THE EAGLE HAS LANDED, I REPEAT, the EAGLE--HAS--LANDED!
Sarge is Here! Holy smoking shit! This frame is amazingly awesome! Exceeded my expectations in all respects...and I'm a picky fu%ker...! Have to say I near began weeping with pride and joy!..!..!
Will post some pics later on tonight! SO GLAD I DID IT! ...The Ti is BEAUTIFUL...and SUPER LIGHT!
Also arrived today :
e-thirteen 9-44 rear cassette in black!
Mulefut Wheelset
KMC DLC 11 Chain / black Titanium Nitride coated
Manitou fork.
THE EAGLE HAS LANDED, I REPEAT, the EAGLE--HAS--LANDED!
Sarge is Here! Holy smoking shit! This frame is amazingly awesome! Exceeded my expectations in all respects...and I'm a picky fu%ker...! Have to say I near began weeping with pride and joy!..!..!
Will post some pics later on tonight! SO GLAD I DID IT! ...The Ti is BEAUTIFUL...and SUPER LIGHT!
Keep getting drawn back to this thread. I think it's a combination of Banshee's lust for them and the anticipation on Skrool's TI build. Either way I've had a battle in my head between a Sergeant or plus wheelset for my already tricked out fatty. I'm blessed to have such problems!
Can't beat the price for the package. The Geo on their bikes is very playful and functional. So, yeah, I'm loyal to em. When I purchased Sarge, a couple weeks later they dropped the price of all of their bikes significantly and sent a check my way to make good. Gotta say thank you Alex!
Lol...
Originally Posted by Skrool
THE EAGLE HAS LANDED, I REPEAT, the EAGLE--HAS--LANDED!
Sarge is Here! Holy smoking shit! This frame is amazingly awesome! Exceeded my expectations in all respects...and I'm a picky fu%ker...! Have to say I near began weeping with pride and joy!..!..!
Will post some pics later on tonight! SO GLAD I DID IT! ...The Ti is BEAUTIFUL...and SUPER LIGHT!
Also arrived today :
e-thirteen 9-44 rear cassette in black!
Mulefut Wheelset
KMC DLC 11 Chain / black Titanium Nitride coated
Manitou fork.
THE EAGLE HAS LANDED, I REPEAT, the EAGLE--HAS--LANDED!
Sarge is Here! Holy smoking shit! This frame is amazingly awesome! Exceeded my expectations in all respects...and I'm a picky fu%ker...! Have to say I near began weeping with pride and joy!..!..!
Will post some pics later on tonight! SO GLAD I DID IT! ...The Ti is BEAUTIFUL...and SUPER LIGHT!
Also arrived today :
e-thirteen 9-44 rear cassette in black!
Mulefut Wheelset
KMC DLC 11 Chain / black Titanium Nitride coated
Manitou fork.
ha! thoughts on this vs. a hayduke? here are mine:
Hayduke:
+ Steel, better compliment to my fs
- need new cranks,BB, and HS
Sergeant:
+ $250 less, includes HS, can reuse cranks
- 140mm seems fairly aggressive (seems odd to have a bigger fork on my ht), alluminum
I've been thinking that the + wheelset for my ponyrustler will be better suited on a singlespeed hardtail...
I love the 140mm of sweetness. It does have a lockout which I thought I'd never use but it's kinda fun to play with the lockout from time to time. The BB elevation is great for all the Jeepin I subject Sarge to.
The MuleFut 50SL's are very nice wheels and would work SS or geared just fine.
The Advocate is also a fine choice. After all, Smithhammer is getting the mileage on his and frequently posting ride pix. Great bike with a donation to bike advocacy to boot!
All to make the choice that much more difficult!
Originally Posted by nvphatty
I try and go legit but they drag me back in again.
KMC DLC 11 Chain / black Titanium Nitride coating :
Duly note black velvet inner box :
e-13 / 9-44 cassette :
Really looking forward to running this cassette. 9 tooth to 44 tooth should cover all my needs.
The rest of the parts should be here sometime mid to late next week. Will try to take some better shots of the frame when I have time. Also, the Manitou fork seem legit. Very nice in person. Have no time to post pics of the Mulefut wheels but they are super-nice in person. Very much pleased I went with them. Have to say pics really don't do this frame justice. It has to be seen in person to be fully appreciated.
Thanks Brother! Tried to get it together for the long weekend, but came up short on a few bits. By next Friday I should be sorted and ready for assembly! [I hope]
The Ti frame has to be seen to be fully appreciated. Very good looking and top notch welds.
I'm having a bit of time trying to figure out 'how' to remove the shimano freehub from the Mulefut wheel. I've never seen this type of design before. I have my XD body ready to go, but it looks like I might need some kind of sun-ringle specialty tool to get it apart...?...? Put in a question earlier today to Alex about this but he must be busy or away from the office. Anyone have a clue...?...? Anyone done this on this wheel before?
Can't find an assembly guide for this hub setup NOR any trace information online anywhere for this specific hub. I mean ZERO. Everything I've found is different than what I see on this hub. Might have to go to bike mechanic tomorrow, which I hate doing. One thing I really like about e-13 is how thorough THEY are with including all kinds of instructions on how to work with their products. Not so with Sun-Ringle it seems.
Got it off finally. ...thanks to a set of channel-locks and some burly vice grips. Man this was f'in tight. Looks like a specialty tool is the right way to do it though. I was careful enough and all is well. Now I get to mount the e-13 cassette. Cranks and BB came today. Tire's 'il be here tomorrow. Rear mech and shifter on Thursday and I'm good to go for full assembly.
Skrool, basically all you hafta do is get the axle cap off and the driver slides off easily.
The axle cap was threaded, and, had thread-lock on it, so it was very very tight. In order to 'hold' the axle from spinning, there is a 4-way cross notch on the other end of the axle which you won't be able to see unless you take the non-drive side axle cap off. Looks like a special tool to hold this cross notch is required, but I just ended up using vice grips on one end, and channel locks on the other end..and put a piece of thing grip rubber in between the tools and the metal. That's how I got it loose. It doesn't just 'slide off'. One end is threaded. The axle cap had to come off the drive side in order to slide off the Freehub body. Once I got it off, the 'modular' e-13 cassette went together with ease...and...as per usual, e-13 INCLUDED the necessary 'specialty tool' WITH my purchase, just as they ALSO did with my TRS-R wheelset, in which they ALSO included BOTH shimano as well as sram Freewheel hubs. I've not encountered such a thorough company when it comes to actually 'thinking' about the customer as e--13. They really are a great company with great product designers.
Will mount the tires today! Alex forgot to include the tubeless air stem for the rim for the front wheel so---I'll have to go out and get one at Fanatic Bike down the street...
Can't wait to see Chupacabra's mounted and full of air!
Pictures really don't do it justice. I'll try to take some pics outside in the sunlight. Much better than interior lighting, which washes everything out. Truly great looking bike in person. Had to experiment with shimming the front brake caliper, ..and an acceptable chain-line took a bit of work to establish with the Raceface cranks / chain-ring. I don't think you could run bigger than a 30t chainring without making for a chain-line that would end up being way-outboard of an acceptable line. Plenty of clearance between the chain and the tire when on the big 44t cog. The e-13 9/44 cassette shifts flawlessly with the SRAM X01 rear mech and X01 Shifter is super sweet.
...Other than the shimming the front brake and chain-line tinkering it went together smoothly, but I did have to flip the chain-ring for clearance. Regarding BB spacing : I Ended up with 1 1/2 spacers on the non-drive side, and zero spacers on the drive side, but if the chain-ring had less dish to it, I still have maybe 3mm of space that I could use to bring the chain-line even closer inboard than it now is. I'd say that the chain-line, as of now, is with the ring aligned with the 3rd or 4th cog out back, not too bad.
Not sure how much it weighs, but it's definitely noticeably lighter than my Knolly. I'm out for my maiden voyage out in the mountains within the hour!
Wow skrool that's some tasty bits from wheel to wheel.
Thanks!
...First ride today was mind altering! This is 'thee' bike that I was hoping it would be. The 29+ provide exactly what I was after. I simply can't believe how well this bike goes uphill on chunky tech stuff. Alex has managed to nail it with this frame design.
More people somehow need to find out about the Sergeant. It is a gift to mankind...
I'll be posting details of my build sometime tomorrow. Taking Sarge out for what will likely turn out to be an all-day-er in the morn'.
Skrool, You know it will become an all day adventure! Now that you have found the answer to the definition of adventure bike, you'll never be the same.. Just sayin'!
Lol I was waiting for this post. Riding just doesn't get better, well maybe with a Mayor, hmm!!
I thought I should join the ranks and check in. This arrived Friday.
Ride ready on Saturday with a few pics before I get out in the woods.
Spent most of the ride getting the cockpit dialed in. Took a bit to get things dialed in, but when I did this thing pedals really well. Keep in mind this is my first hard tail. Superlite, Switchblade, Spyder 29er have been my previous bikes. The slacker head angle brings back fond memories of the Blade. Cornering needs some work, as I have to plan a little sooner coming off the super steep angle on the Spyder. Heading out for a bit today and looking forward to settling in. Sarg is going to be a great addition to the quiver, fitting nicely between the Spyder and the ITC.
EBG, I'd say Manitou did a great job on the Magnum. The interesting part is that each click of the adjustments for rebound and compression are very noticeable. I think they did a great job on the internals and have had no issue with the fork thus far. 3 months of playing with it and getting trialsy with it too. No sloppy bushings from the trialsy part either. I don't see doing hooks with a B+ in the future but there are other things to be done.
Nice looking bike. Anyone ride this and compare it to the new Trek Stache. I know it would be comparing the 27.7 RSD to the 29 Trek but wondering what the thoughts are. I am looking to upgrade my SS and the RSD aluminum frame that fits only 27.5 would be more than enough bike for me to budget a SS upgrade.
I got a chance to do a parking lot ride on the Trek last week and It was kind of meh? Was excited to get on the bike but it just felt OK, nothing special. I think it was set up 1x10. Definitely liked the dropper that was on it. I rode a Scott plus bike a couple weeks before that and that felt light, lively and quick.
Was thinking SS with a dropper and some light 2.8's would make a nice bike. I usually ride my Ful Sus at full tilt and back off a bit on the SS.
Nice looking bike. Anyone ride this and compare it to the new Trek Stache. I know it would be comparing the 27.7 RSD to the 29 Trek but wondering what the thoughts are. I am looking to upgrade my SS and the RSD aluminum frame that fits only 27.5 would be more than enough bike for me to budget a SS upgrade.
I got a chance to do a parking lot ride on the Trek last week and It was kind of meh? Was excited to get on the bike but it just felt OK, nothing special. I think it was set up 1x10. Definitely liked the dropper that was on it. I rode a Scott plus bike a couple weeks before that and that felt light, lively and quick.
Was thinking SS with a dropper and some light 2.8's would make a nice bike. I usually ride my Ful Sus at full tilt and back off a bit on the SS.
Tedo did a SS Sergeant and is having all kinds of fun with it. In my test ride phase I found so many bikes that were, well bikes. The Sergeant has been an awesomely playful bike and excels at everything I've thrown at it.
Just put my order in with RSD today for a Sergeant Ti. My story is similar to Skrool. I've been out of the scene for a good long while. My current bike is a 2002 Santa Cruz Heckler so I anticipate the Sergeant to be a pleasant surprise and upgrade from what I was previously riding.
Serg pulled parade duty last weekend. Outfitted with flats and flipflops he proved to be a great urban cruiser. We had full cooperation of the local forces to ensure we were all safe and sound. Tour De North took place sponsored by New Belgium, and no I did not win the cruiser again this year. Serg is back on recon duty this weekend. You will enjoy your purchase rip555
Anyone fitted 3.8 tires on it? Something like Minions FBF and FBR.
Website and Alex confirmed it is compatible.
Would like to know/see clearance in frame and fork.
I have the minions and they clear reasonably well. Haven't taken pix with em as of yet. You may need to flip your chainring for adequate tire/chain clearance. Yeah, they work well, yeah, they are heavy as fvck. It's fun to ride em however, Sarge's fuel economy goes down the toilet.
There is one thing I find with Sarge. He's a fun rig that out performs other choices out there. Geometry and clearance is excellent. Manuals and wheelies are euphoric. Climbing is superb. Of the three bikes getting the mileage, Sarge, the Mayor and the trials bike.
Plainly said, the Sergeant is a high performance bike at a very reasonable price, period!
I have the minions and they clear reasonably well. Haven't taken pix with em as of yet. You may need to flip your chainring for adequate tire/chain clearance. Yeah, they work well, yeah, they are heavy as fvck. It's fun to ride em however, Sarge's fuel economy goes down the toilet.
There is one thing I find with Sarge. He's a fun rig that out performs other choices out there. Geometry and clearance is excellent. Manuals and wheelies are euphoric. Climbing is superb. Of the three bikes getting the mileage, Sarge, the Mayor and the trials bike.
Plainly said, the Sergeant is a high performance bike at a very reasonable price, period!
I'm pretty convinced that the Sarge will be a hoot to ride in summer dress. It's just that I'm researching if it would be reasonable to think it might serve duty as a fatbike for well groomed snowy singletracks...
Fatbike duty might work if the snow is firm enough. After all ya don't wanna be leaving deep ruts along your ride. Sarge might not ride as many places this winter, but the Mayor with either Bud/Lou or the 2XL's is gonna have a hella good time on the snowmobile trails.
Sarge is good for mild snow conditions and I haven't had the opportunity to try the 3.8's on snow yet.
You may be a guinea pig on that one! No worries, so will I. :/
Fatbike duty might work if the snow is firm enough. After all ya don't wanna be leaving deep ruts along your ride. Sarge might not ride as many places this winter, but the Mayor with either Bud/Lou or the 2XL's is gonna have a hella good time on the snowmobile trails.
Sarge is good for mild snow conditions and I haven't had the opportunity to try the 3.8's on snow yet.
You may be a guinea pig on that one! No worries, so will I. :/
Oh yeah, did I say that Alex is a good egg?
Yeah, Alex is gonna send me some clearance pics. Pretty fast response time. I like it!
Took the Sarge out for a beautiful fall ride here in Ohio. I've had the Sergeant since June and got to say it's been a blast. Here's a few bullets as opposed to paragraphs. (Who has time to read paragraphs? Ain't nobody got time for that.)
- First, Alex at RSD Bikes is very helpful. Always with quick response to questions. Even on Sundays! Great Company
- Coming from a regular 27.5 I was unsure about the plus size until I read BansheeRune describe the Sergeant as "trailsy". I'm in.
-I can say the Sarge is definitely trailsy, flickable, maneuverable, and airbornable! Great geo and BB height. Everything I was wanting.
- Although the original build kit is great, changes I've made: Rocket Ron's with Q tubes (thanks again Banshee), RS Reverb dropper, Absolute Black 28t oval chainring. Chromag Scarab pedals. Chromag Trailmaster saddle.
- Upcoming changes; Sram GX 1x11, Vee Trax Fatty 3.25's.
- Anyone thinking about taking the plunge into a 27.5+, the RSD Sergeant is a great way to go. What can I say it's a fun "trailsy" bike.
I adopted Sarge in April actually on the 2nd anniversary of my heart surgery. He's been an excellent playmate, indeed! Yeah, Sarge has done a little shopping too. VP pedals, Loaded AMX bar, Straitline stem and that bright shiny wheelset! His original wheelset has his Nobby Nic's on em for the quick change. His new wheelset is outfitted with the Rocket Ron's. Both are utilizing Q-Tube SL's to keep him svelte. Oh yeah, both RSD's have the Trailmaster DT black/orange, talk about sweet seats for bytchen bikes!
Lovely pix of one of Sarge's relatives! Riding in the fall is a real treat, with all the color. It just doesn't get better, now does it?!?!
I'm seriously considering purchasing a ti Sergeant. I want a hard tail that I can really crank up the hills and has plenty of traction. I also want a nimble bike that can carve the down hills with precision. I spoke with Alex at RSD today. He seems great. His company seems good. I'm a bit nervous about getting a bike I have not ridden. But this bike seems to be just about what I am looking for.
I'm seriously considering purchasing a ti Sergeant. I want a hard tail that I can really crank up the hills and has plenty of traction. I also want a nimble bike that can carve the down hills with precision. I spoke with Alex at RSD today. He seems great. His company seems good. I'm a bit nervous about getting a bike I have not ridden. But this bike seems to be just about what I am looking for.
Should I go for it?...
With the ride qualities of the Sergeant you'll be doing yourself a service to go for it. I chose aluminum so that I could have two bikes for the price of one. I find Sarge to be as nimble as they get. I take some tight hairpins by pivoting the rear end around and it sure is a great ride. Climbs feel like level ground, wheelies are euphoric and descents are a pleasure.
BansheeRune,
Thank you for your reply. It sounds like an awesome ride. How long have you been riding yours? Do you ride a full suspension bike also? Can you compare the two?
I'm a mostly weekend rider, but I do like to push hard when I'm out. I'm 40, so I want a comfortable ride but I do like to go fast too.
I've been riding Sarge for the last 7 months and really enjoy the top notch performance. My "dirt couch" is a 26" and is fun as hell however, I need ed to add a hardtail to the collective that was a 27.5 and has a pair of 3.0" tires to have a midfat fun ride. I was becoming weary of testing bikes and strongly considering a custom frame until I came across RSD. Alex replied to an email on a saturday and within an hour had a test bike sorted with a shop 90 miles away. There is no better customer service out there, period! I'm 53 and had heart surgery 2 years ago. As a result my cardiologist prescribed riding a bike so Sarge goes with me every day just in case there's a ride to be had. All I can say is RSD saved me a ton with the Sergeant being very close to what I was looking for in a +bike. I was unimpressed with the 29+ rigs cause I like to play and didn't want a dedicated bike packing rig.
The Ti frame is slightly different from the aluminum in terms of geometry. Ti frame supports the use of 29+ wheels.
Geometry is awesome. BB clearance is excellent. Tire clearance is generous. The bike is excellently crafted with careful attention to detail. Components are very nice quality. The price is lower than most other production bikes and are better equipped. The price includes shipping from Canadia so that too is a benefit.
I ride the 2016 Alum Sergeant. I'm sure you saw my post above. I too was on the fence about ordering a bike I haven't ridden. Had a few back and forth emails with Alex. Great customer service. Add in a great price for the whole package. I decided to go for it and I'm so glad I did.
In my area of Ohio I ride short ups and downs, tight twisty singletrack laden with roots and rocks. Smaller jumps and drops of 2-3 feet high. I like to ride fast, pop off roots, rocks, small jumps, catch air were I can. I got to say the Sarge is very responsive. No problem getting some air under the wheels. And with roots to contend with, the flickable front end makes putting front wheel where I want it much easier. The bike is very maneuverable, responds well to body English. No problems with climbing, sometimes gotta get your lean on! I added a dropper post for more aggressive downhill corner carving. Good BB height, no issue with pedal strikes. Like Banshee mentioned, the geo is slightly different, but I don't think it'll make a drastic difference.
I've never owned a full suspension, but from everything I understand, tire/air volume and/or steel frames is no substitute for a full suspension. The 27.5 plus will increase traction and absorb some of the small root/rock trail chatter. You can still get bounced out of your seat, need to use your legs as your suspension. But it's hard to beat the responsiveness and quick acceleration of a hardtail.
I've been having a lot of fun on the trails with Sarge. I don't think you can go wrong. With the right frame size you can dial in the cockpit to your liking.
Kondra, The comparison of a full squish and hardtail is kinda challenging. My fs is running 26x3.0's on dually's @ 45mm wide. The suspension does have its own class. I have as good a time on either bike simply because of the performance of a bike with good geometry and quality.
I must say, the performance of the Sergeant is spot on. With 140mm of sweet fork to play with I'm good to go. With either FS or HT you will have a better ride with using your elbows and knees as additional suspension. I ride with the seat down 1.5-2" lower than a roadie would for the space to move as needed during the ride.
Kondra, The comparison of a full squish and hardtail is kinda challenging. My fs is running 26x3.0's on dually's @ 45mm wide. The suspension does have its own class. I have as good a time on either bike simply because of the performance of a bike with good geometry and quality.
I must say, the performance of the Sergeant is spot on. With 140mm of sweet fork to play with I'm good to go. With either FS or HT you will have a better ride with using your elbows and knees as additional suspension. I ride with the seat down 1.5-2" lower than a roadie would for the space to move as needed during the ride.
makpak, pass the bourbon...
Thank you so much for your input. Yes, I guess it is a tricky comparison, like bourbon to scotch...
I'm going to continue my research. I will post pics if/when I enlist the Sergeant.
Put in my order for a 2017 Sergeant aluminum. I was all excited about the killer deal on the 2016... Then I saw the '17 and it was all over for me. Raw aluminum... Pike... XT... That bike is too cool. Customer service (Alex) was fast and friendly, and now I must wait til spring for my new bike. I have a feeling it will be worth it!
Put in my order for a 2017 Sergeant aluminum. I was all excited about the killer deal on the 2016... Then I saw the '17 and it was all over for me. Raw aluminum... Pike... XT... That bike is too cool. Customer service (Alex) was fast and friendly, and now I must wait til spring for my new bike. I have a feeling it will be worth it!
Firstly, congratz on the new bike! You'll be pleasantly surprised at the performance of the Sergeant. The geometry makes for a very playful fun ride. You'll find that Alex is a great help after sale as well. So that last statement is spot on!
Thanks Banshee! I really appreciate all the comments and insight from you and others on the forum. Never seen one in person, never rode one. But geometry, components, and feedback from you guys helps a ton in making the choice!
Welcome to the ranks. The Sergeant is a great "27.5 plus" trail bike. I've been having a blast on mine. If this is your first plus bike you'll find it offers some extra sure footedness but is still playful. My regular 27.5 Giant XTC is now collecting dust. I look at those skinny little 2.25 tires on it and wonder how I ever managed.
RSD is definitely putting together some great bikes at a great price. And as you know, great customer service too. Careful, they can be addictive, just ask Banshee 😂. But what can I say, I'm eyeballing the Wildcat for next summer myself. (Ssshhh, the wife doesn't know, hehe)
So yes Alex is a great guy for sure, lots of help in getting my bike and very helpful in the after sale.
Have had 2 rides on the bike and once dialing in the right tire pressure the bike feels great.
Easy to manual, climbs really well, likes to pop off little jumps, brakes are great and the fork tracks well.
Hi fellows! I really appreciate all of the comments, suggestions and info on the Sergeant. As noted, Alex was prompt with a reply on my questions about the Sergeant. I believe I have decided on the Sergeant Ti! My previous ride was a Carver 420 Ti, and I have regretted selling that bike every since we parted ways in 2014. I have searched in web trying to find a replacement that I thought was "matching" my ability and age. I'm 55, soon to be 56, and think that the Ti Sergeant fits the bill.
I'm going to have to part with a few of my other hobbies to get the bike with the parts pick that I want. I thinking of the following build, and would like your suggestions and comments. I want to use a Rock Shox Lyric fork with 140mm travel, also will be running a set of Stan's No Tubes wheelset, either Mk 3 Flows or the Hugos...not sure which would be better? I'm either going to be running Schwalbe 2.8's or 3.0's, not really clear on this. XT shifter (1 x11) with a 32t chainring on XT boost cranks, XT disc front and rear with 180mm rotors, and I plan on using Thomson products throughout the cockpit..X4 stem, Thomson carbon bars, and Thomson seatpost and seatpost clamp. Like I stated earlier, I would really appreciate your comments and suggestions! Thanks in advance...now it's off to ebay to make some "parts-buying" cash!
Welcome to the fray, Plunka5! And gratz on the new bike! As for rim width, it's a very personal choice. With Sarge, I stayed with 50mm rims and 3.0's for flotation in loose conditions. Wider rims also accommodate lower riding pressure and better traction. I do get trialsy at times and that is another reason for fatter rims and a preference for the tire to fill out and be a 3.0.
Keep us posted with your new friend and pix in the wild!
Welcome to the fray, Plunka5! And gratz on the new bike! As for rim width, it's a very personal choice. With Sarge, I stayed with 50mm rims and 3.0's for flotation in loose conditions. Wider rims also accommodate lower riding pressure and better traction. I do get trialsy at times and that is another reason for fatter rims and a preference for the tire to fill out and be a 3.0.
Keep us posted with your new friend and pix in the wild!
BansheeRune, it will be at least the middle of January before RSD gets more medium Sergeant Ti frames in...until then I am in the process of getting my components together. I've got the drivetrain, mostly XT, and will be getting my cockpit items next! I can't wait to take delivery, and I will keep this thread active with pics and thoughts once I receive my frame! Thanks!
plunka5, Here's a pic of Sarge sportin his custom Scrapers and orange Hope Pro4's.
In living color!
He's set up with 30cr, 36-11 cassette.
Just not a fan of the blackout appearance but still have the original wheelset equipped with Nobby Nic 3.0's for those rides that require a more robust tire. Don't have pix of Sarge wearing his 3.8's.
You're in for a real treat when you take that first ride and discover how well a Sergeant performs.
That's one of the reasons that I decided on the Sergeant BansheeRune! The looks of your ride! You need to talk to Alex about some commision! ;0 On second thought, better not...could make the price go up!
Kamper, the Sergeant aluminum will not accept 29+, it will do the Maxxis 3.8's. The Ti frame will do 29+. Other than that, the Sergeant's only change for 17 is color.
Sarge is one of the most playful, fun bikes I have. I'd say, worth every penny spent. The other point of interest for my purchase was BB height.
Being a -40 is higher than the majority of other production bikes. This is highly important for my offroad experience to be pedal strike free.
The changes I've made are bar, stem and wheels.
I just can't do black out cause "Orange is the new black". (Courtesy of nvphatty)
I say go for the Sergeant cause Sarge is an awesome bike!
BansheeRune, how do you like the Hope Pro 4 hubs? I'm thinking about getting those hubs built on Spank 395 rims? I've always liked the quality of Hope products and their hubs seem to be some of the toughest out there for the $'s. I'm going to try and call Alex tomorrow and see if he will take a deposit on the Sergeant Ti Medium frame...so I will guaranteed a ride by mid-January! Have a great New Year!
BansheeRune, how do you like the Hope Pro 4 hubs? I'm thinking about getting those hubs built on Spank 395 rims? I've always liked the quality of Hope products and their hubs seem to be some of the toughest out there for the $'s. I'm going to try and call Alex tomorrow and see if he will take a deposit on the Sergeant Ti Medium frame...so I will guaranteed a ride by mid-January! Have a great New Year!
The Pro4's are awesome for the coin. Color is nice too. As for rims, I run 3.0's and i45's. I just find the profile of the 3.0's to perform better when they can fill out and be 3.0's. Works better at lower pressure without fold over issues. Much more comfortable to not get my remaining teeth shaken outta my melon.
Windigo, Sarge has a pair of those! They fill the frame and fork nicely and are a hoot.
And, yes heat angle did change for 17. The HT angle change makes me curious as to whether
it is due to A/C difference between forks or frame design.
Wow - i really thinks i may have found the n+1 bike i've wanted. Been going back and forth btw a couple of b+ or full fat (thinking second set of wheels for summer) - but having rolled around on a 27.5x3.8 recently - i feel that would be the best overall compromise to get almost fat. Looks like a call/email to RSD will be in the works.
Sizing: I suspect I'd go Medium w short stem - Im a shade under 5'7". Don't care about standover as a critical measure frankly. but thinking the bit longer WB will add some rowdy DH stability.
thoughts on sizing??
THANKS all! I'd been following this thread for about a year - and been to RSD site numerous times... but now w the revelation about wheel size options and head angle for 17 - I know where Im leaning.
Originally Posted by BansheeRune
The Pro4's are awesome for the coin. Color is nice too. As for rims, I run 3.0's and i45's. I just find the profile of the 3.0's to perform better when they can fill out and be 3.0's. Works better at lower pressure without fold over issues. Much more comfortable to not get my remaining teeth shaken outta my melon.
Windigo, Sarge has a pair of those! They fill the frame and fork nicely and are a hoot.
And, yes heat angle did change for 17. The HT angle change makes me curious as to whether
it is due to A/C difference between forks or frame design.
Spectrum Powdercoating out of Denver can hook a fellow up with a piano finish in any color or in any shade of orange.
Oh, you prolly meant Punkin orange...
OK, I browsed over this thread (tried hard to read as much as I could and find the info, but maybe missed it), but curious about the size frames you guys bought and your heights and what bar/stem combo you're running?
Ask as these seems like fairly nice options for PLUS, however the Reach numbers just don't seem to add up to me, seem very, very short, especially in this day and age, 443mm for a size XL, that's shorter than my Large Phantom
Originally Posted by Harold
You're doing mtbr wrong, you're supposed to get increasingly offended by the implications that you're doing ANYTHING wrong.
OK, I browsed over this thread (tried hard to read as much as I could and find the info, but maybe missed it), but curious about the size frames you guys bought and your heights and what bar/stem combo you're running?
Ask as these seems like fairly nice options for PLUS, however the Reach numbers just don't seem to add up to me, seem very, very short, especially in this day and age, 443mm for a size XL, that's shorter than my Large Phantom
6' 1" with long arms, I can pass the doobie across the room without getting outta the recliner. Sarge is a large with 70mm stem, 800 mm Loaded AMX bar. Yep, I like power steering. Same setup on the Mayor.
A minor surgery can resolve it, but not a factory item.
I still have not added the weight to Sarge as I don't ride with a road height seat so I can play as needed cause elements present themselves without notice.
A minor surgery can resolve it, but not a factory item.
I still have not added the weight to Sarge as I don't ride with a road height seat so I can play as needed cause elements present themselves without notice.
I bought the frame anyway, really want to run a Fall Line. You talking about drilling a hole?
I was gonna do the frame and ended up buying a complete and changing a few parts and building a bytchen pair of wheels to resolve the black problem. Now Sarge has two wheel sets so changing from rocket ron's to nobby nic's is a 30 second process rather than a marathon.
For 2017 RSD have changed the top tube length and the head tube angle for the Big Chief and I think the Sarge as well. Head tube length has also changed to reduce the height of the front end.
A call to RSD and talk to Alex. He can fill you in.
2017 models will be available in April.
If you're lucky enough to be in the mountains,
you're lucky enough.
Nice. I have a set of wheels for this but nothing else yet, may just do a gravity dropper to avoid the drilling.
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I would suggest a Fox Transfer, they also make an external and 150mm drop. I have one on my RSD Mayor fat bike. Been awesome for the 6months I've had it. Good luck with your build.
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#THELEGENDMTB 2016 RSD Mayor 2018 Diamondback Release 5CA
Here's a couple pix from Sarge's day out in the southwest. He loves to rail along and rolling through the sweeping turns is delightful as it gets. With the rocky terrain Sarge had 10f 12 r and was going down the trail with good results.
Fun times with a sweet ride.
Here's a shot of Sarge having a siesta along a very nice trail.
Here's a couple pix from Sarge's day out in the southwest. He loves to rail along and rolling through the sweeping turns is delightful as it gets. With the rocky terrain Sarge had 10f 12 r and was going down the trail with good results.
Fun times with a sweet ride.
Here's a shot of Sarge having a siesta along a very nice trail.
Love the look of this frame. What fork?
Disregard... i see you bought the complete and changed wheelset
27.5x3.8's are purdy sweet on Sarge. They are awesome to hit the trail on. They work nicely on 50's.
Welcome to the Sergeant club, Skiffer. You're gonna be pleasantly surprised with the performance and comfortable ride. No other compares, period. I love the ride of 3.0's and have no desire to go 2.8 or 2.6.
3.8's are fantastic for sand/snow.
Between Sarge and the Mayor, my other bikes are being neglected.
My Mayor has gone to a new home so I'm all in with the Sergeant. In southern Alberta we don't have many days with deep snow so I've been running 3.8's all winter. Trying to decode weather to by Minions or Hodags next. Can't wait for it to show up.
Originally Posted by BansheeRune
27.5x3.8's are purdy sweet on Sarge. They are awesome to hit the trail on. They work nicely on 50's.
Welcome to the Sergeant club, Skiffer. You're gonna be pleasantly surprised with the performance and comfortable ride. No other compares, period. I love the ride of 3.0's and have no desire to go 2.8 or 2.6.
3.8's are fantastic for sand/snow.
Between Sarge and the Mayor, my other bikes are being neglected.
I'm in the process of selling off all the road bike stuff and getting back into more mountain biking. After talking with Alex at RSD he suggested that the Sergeant would be the best bike for my situation. I've got a few questions before pulling the trigger:
1) With the ability to run 3.8" tires on the stock rims, do you experience calf bang issues with this frame? I have bigass calves so this is a concern for me.
2) Looking at the differences in geometry and spec between 2016 and 2017 models, is it worth it to go 2017 or is the 2016 sale price a stupidly good deal?
3) Any reason I should go Ti, other than the known material advantages? I may get enough money out of the road biking stuff to swing this option.
4) Anyone feel like the reach is short on the 2016? I'm trying to match the reach on my 2009 Titus El Guapo, also hoping the head tube is a little lower so it climbs better.
I'm in the process of selling off all the road bike stuff and getting back into more mountain biking. After talking with Alex at RSD he suggested that the Sergeant would be the best bike for my situation. I've got a few questions before pulling the trigger:
1) With the ability to run 3.8" tires on the stock rims, do you experience calf bang issues with this frame? I have bigass calves so this is a concern for me.
2) Looking at the differences in geometry and spec between 2016 and 2017 models, is it worth it to go 2017 or is the 2016 sale price a stupidly good deal?
3) Any reason I should go Ti, other than the known material advantages? I may get enough money out of the road biking stuff to swing this option.
4) Anyone feel like the reach is short on the 2016? I'm trying to match the reach on my 2009 Titus El Guapo, also hoping the head tube is a little lower so it climbs better.
Thanks for all your feedback!
3.8's are a pleasure without issue. The 16 is absurdly good deal. There is a minor difference in geometry between the aluminum and Ti frame although it shouldn't have a negative impact.
Would I change anything on my Sarge, not at all. Stem 70mm bar 800mm 25mm rise 8 degree back, 5 up for the sweet trialsy feel. Reach is damn nice considering I can pass the doob across the room without getting outta the recliner. I personally can't stand reaching down to my ankles for a handlebar so the slumped ove like I had a stroke is resolved. Trialsy, fun, playful bike. High BB for that pedal strike free sweetness.
Either 16 or 17 model will be awesome.
Sarge hanging out at the Cat Mountain trailhead. Nothing like a rail trail to keep Sarge entertained!
Sarge has a day of singletrack! Good riding with excellent trails. Rocky sections and good turns.
While his RR Liteskin's have had no issue with the terrain here, he sure coulda used his NN's.
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Originally Posted by the mayor
skrool that's some tasty bits from wheel to wheel. 
But I'm holding out for something else in my future???
