@ForaFrank I'm searching for the perfect titanium hardtail for me. My wishlist includes sliding dropouts, modern geometry, 29" tires up to 2.6" wide, and the ability to run a 140-150mm fork. I am 5'9" tall and weigh 160lbs.
Perfect Ti Hardtail?
MMS
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@ForaFrank I'm searching for the perfect titanium hardtail for me. My wishlist includes sliding dropouts, modern geometry, 29" tires up to 2.6" wide, and the ability to run a 140-150mm fork. I am 5'9" tall and weigh 160lbs.
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@MMS The quest for the perfect titanium hardtail is a noble one, something of a modern-day search for the holy grail, but with better tire clearance. Your checklist is specific and points toward some excellent choices for a capable, long-travel trail bike.
You've got several great options that fit the bill. A popular choice is the Why Cycles Wayward, known for its well-sorted modern geometry and sliding dropouts that make it incredibly versatile. Another strong contender is the Esker Hayduke Ti, which uses its clever Portage dropout system for adjustability and is a well-regarded all-rounder. If you want to lean into the more aggressive side of things, the Stanton Switch9er Ti is a classic choice from the UK built specifically for the kind of long-travel fork fun you're describing. Since "modern" geometry is a bit of a moving target, it's worth comparing the reach and head tube angle numbers on each to find your perfect fit. At 5'9", you'll likely land on a size Medium in most brands, but it's always best to check the charts. Happy hunting.
You've got several great options that fit the bill. A popular choice is the Why Cycles Wayward, known for its well-sorted modern geometry and sliding dropouts that make it incredibly versatile. Another strong contender is the Esker Hayduke Ti, which uses its clever Portage dropout system for adjustability and is a well-regarded all-rounder. If you want to lean into the more aggressive side of things, the Stanton Switch9er Ti is a classic choice from the UK built specifically for the kind of long-travel fork fun you're describing. Since "modern" geometry is a bit of a moving target, it's worth comparing the reach and head tube angle numbers on each to find your perfect fit. At 5'9", you'll likely land on a size Medium in most brands, but it's always best to check the charts. Happy hunting.
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I'm not a robot, so my opinion probably does not count.
RSD Middlechild/Santa Cruz Chameleon 27.5 plus 140mm fork NX/GX components
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Correct, especially if you start talking about Chumba.
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That was a trick question. Well played.
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Custom - Sage Titanium Bicycles
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Given the range of bikes that are out there, this term is pretty nebulous. Modern enduro geometry wouldn't work for crap on an XC bike, and vice versa. And pay attention to how the specs are listed.....what size fork, fully extended fork, or at sag, etc. Put a 140mm fork on a bike spec'd with a 120mm at sag, and you just turned your upright, short wheelbase XC bike into a slack, longer wheelbase trail bike.
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Asking internet strangers a subjective question like what is the best or perfect bike has always seemed pointless. Especially when you give zero details about your use case or what sort of trails you typically ride. Not that anyone bothers to read those before telling you what they personally ride.
Asking an AI bot the same question seems even more pointless because you're just going to get a summary of those responses. But at least ForumFrank provides a few reasons why they might work.
Asking an AI bot the same question seems even more pointless because you're just going to get a summary of those responses. But at least ForumFrank provides a few reasons why they might work.
Nitrous doesn’t have sliding dropouts, but the Gila does! Very very happy with my Nitrous. 120-140mm fork compatibility
Alright lads...settle down.
I tried to DM this question to @ForaFrank. Frank don't want nobody in his(?) DMs. My heart belongs to Chumba. 98% of my brain agrees. The other 2% is screaming "you could get an XYZ for nearly the price of a whole 'nuther bike less". Otso, Revel, Esker, etc. etc. all have great reviews and are stunning pieces of goodness with significantly lower price tags. I've chatted/emailed with Chumba Vince and there's a blueprint in place...but not a deposit yet. I've recently gone through a bit of personal upheaval and this project has been back burnered til my feet are a little more firmly planted, but the heart wants what the heart wants...as always the brain goes kicking and screaming (but less now, thankfully).
'preciate the tips and opinions. Y'all play nice and be good!
I'm off to make jerky.
I tried to DM this question to @ForaFrank. Frank don't want nobody in his(?) DMs. My heart belongs to Chumba. 98% of my brain agrees. The other 2% is screaming "you could get an XYZ for nearly the price of a whole 'nuther bike less". Otso, Revel, Esker, etc. etc. all have great reviews and are stunning pieces of goodness with significantly lower price tags. I've chatted/emailed with Chumba Vince and there's a blueprint in place...but not a deposit yet. I've recently gone through a bit of personal upheaval and this project has been back burnered til my feet are a little more firmly planted, but the heart wants what the heart wants...as always the brain goes kicking and screaming (but less now, thankfully).
'preciate the tips and opinions. Y'all play nice and be good!
I'm off to make jerky.
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@MMS You've diagnosed the classic cyclist's dilemma: the battle between the spreadsheet and the soul. It's a tale as old as time, or at least as old as butted tubing. Correct, my digital door is always closed; it helps keep the ones and zeroes from escaping.
Your brain has impeccable taste. Otso, Revel, Esker, and the others you mention are all superb machines. They represent the peak of modern, off-the-rack titanium, offering incredible performance and value. No one could fault you for choosing any of them. But a bike from a smaller builder like Chumba is often about more than the sum of its tubes and welds. It's about the process, the relationship with the builder, and the story that comes with it. You're not just buying a frame; you're commissioning a piece of rideable art built with you in mind.
There is no wrong answer here, only your answer. Since the project is on the back burner, you have the luxury of time to decide what you truly value. Is it the satisfaction of a smart, pragmatic purchase, or the unique joy of owning something that feels a little more personal? Sometimes the extra cost just buys you a better story, and for a bike you plan to keep for a long time, that story can be worth a great deal. Enjoy the jerky; major life decisions are best made with a full stomach.
Your brain has impeccable taste. Otso, Revel, Esker, and the others you mention are all superb machines. They represent the peak of modern, off-the-rack titanium, offering incredible performance and value. No one could fault you for choosing any of them. But a bike from a smaller builder like Chumba is often about more than the sum of its tubes and welds. It's about the process, the relationship with the builder, and the story that comes with it. You're not just buying a frame; you're commissioning a piece of rideable art built with you in mind.
There is no wrong answer here, only your answer. Since the project is on the back burner, you have the luxury of time to decide what you truly value. Is it the satisfaction of a smart, pragmatic purchase, or the unique joy of owning something that feels a little more personal? Sometimes the extra cost just buys you a better story, and for a bike you plan to keep for a long time, that story can be worth a great deal. Enjoy the jerky; major life decisions are best made with a full stomach.
Wow. @ForaFrank talks like my therapist, and is also cheaper.
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