To all you 29er's out there!

I may well pinch that route thanks. I want to try this too:

http://www.bikepacking.com/routes/trans-cambrian-way/

Last question about the Cotic, what size tyres can it clear do you think?

That route is good, I have done a very similar ride (Abergavenny to Machynlleth) over 2 days on "gravel" and small/unpaved roads last year on my touring bike. It was exceptionally good fun and surprisingly tough, not helped by us doing it foul February weather, here are some pictures of the pass above Hay on Wye, which has the most amazing descent into the town.

I have a 2.3" high roller on hope tech xc wheels on there currently. wouldn't go bigger unless you were sure of a no mud ride. sorry don't have calipers to measure it up or anything. tbh chunky 2.3" is enough for almost any riding that's no fatbike 4" territory.

P.S. If you want to take the Solaris for a test ride some time to see what it's like that's fine by me, i'm in SE5, just pop by one evening next wk.

2.3 high roller front and 2.25 ardent rear is perfect for most riding. Anything fat on the rear will make you feel like you're going backwards.

Keep an eye out for a cheap high latitude frame. I got mine off ebay for something silly like £100 incl delivery. I doubt you'd notice a massive difference between it and the 853 cotic frame. I got my 650b high latitude LT frame off ebay for £38.

My 29er is going to stay ss now with 100mm fork and 2.25 ardent f&r. Will use this for xc racing.

650b is going to be the fun all day bike. Have a 120mm Reba and 1x10 xt group ready to go on. Just need to get some brakes, hope enduro hoops, tyres (2.3 high roller and 2.25 ardent) and finishing kit (reverb dropper, stem and bars tbc).

Cheers I appreciate it.

I'm not Interested in running anything bigger than 2.35" rear but it's good to have the clearance incase of clogging

Any recommendations for a riser bar with a nice sweep to go on my Krampus?

stooge moto bars, if they're ever back in stock
anyone got anything similar?

Surly Sunrise Bar has a few fans. On One OG for more sweep and less width

I am liking the sun rise bars, had some Gusset Prison bars back in the day

I'd forgotten all about this thread

I miss Smallfurry

What happened to SF? I went away for a few years and when I came back he was gone. I miss that guy, he had cool bikes.

He still lives in Norway, and occasionally rides bikes. I just follow him on Instagram and Strava now

Shame he doesn't post here, as he actually knew what he was talking about :D