BIG.NINE XT

By using a specific tube shape and careful design of the seat- and chainstay of our hardtail bikes, we enable them to work like flat leaf springs, absorbing surface bumps and reducing vibrations. This makes the rear end more comfortable, can improve power delivery and has a positive impact on rider fatigue. In particular, on performance bikes that are ridden over long distances and uneven surfaces, this can have a great effect on the overall riding performance and enjoyment.

Steering precision is vital to safe and confident handling, and the X-TAPER HEADTUBE allows us to significantly boost this precision. A larger headset diameter at the bottom paired with a smaller one at the top helps to deal with the strains modern riding and equipment can put on the headtube, all without adding unnecessary weight. It allows tapered forks to be fitted with ease and delivers precise and confidence-inspiring steering.

On the majority of our frames, we run the gear and brake cables and hoses through the frame. The cables enter and exit the frame through smooth sockets, or we use one of our other systems like SMART ENTRY or WIRE PORT to be routed through. Running the cables inside the frame protects them from the elements, gives a clean and neat look and can offer aerodynamic advantages.

Many of our frames offer internal cable routing, where the gear and brake cables are run through the frame for maximum protection and a clean look. Some internally run cables can rattle when riding over uneven surfaces, but our SMART ENTRY system prevents this from happening. Cables, housings and brake hoses are clamped under tension to prevent noisy cable movement. All inlets are completely interchangeable to deal with any kind of cable or wire.

Shimano's Di2 electronic shifting system offers fast, smooth and reliable shifting. In particular, in the road world, it has proven itself as the primary choice when top performance is at the top of the agenda. With that in mind, we have a broad selection of performance road frames that are Di2 READY and can accommodate the electrical cable, battery and other little tweaks that the system requires.

NANO MATRIX CARBON is a special kind of carbon fibre where we add extremely tiny, nano-scale particles to the resin that binds the individual carbon fibres together. These then work on a molecular level to protect them from damage. It’s so effective that it can actually increase the finished carbon fibre’s impact resistance by up to 40%, allowing us to build stronger and lighter composite frames that result in a faster and tougher bike.

This is a method we use to manufacture our carbon fibre frames. First, the carbon fibre that makes up the frame is laid around special formers. We then use a bladder to compress the layers against the outside of the frame mould, giving a smooth and wrinkle-free internal finish, removing any voids in between the layers of carbon that can cause potential weak points, resulting in a stronger, lighter frame.