29+ Bikes (The Complete List)

By Logan

PUBLISHED Oct 30, 2024

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Updated October 2024, Originally published February 2019

Believe it or not, it wasn’t until the summer of 2012 when plus tires first debuted. Surly Bikes was the originator, launching both the Instigator with 26+ tires and the Krampus with massive 29 x 3.0″ rubber. Coincidentally, it was around that same time when bikepacking began its rise in popularity. We aren’t saying that 29+ was the impetus for bikepacking, but the two seem to be cosmically intertwined. That’s to say, those mammoth 3.0” tires seemed to open up a dreamworld of possibilities by expanding what a bike without suspension could do with added floatation, loads of traction, cushion, and supreme rollover. By borrowing a couple of cues from full fat tires, but without as much weight and rolling resistance, 29+ bikes trumped what a regular rigid mountain bike could accomplish.

A year and a half later, Surly unveiled one of the first “bikepacking specific” bikes. When photos of this rig initially surfaced, folks referred to it as the bikepacking Krampus, and once it was officially released, the Surly ECR set new precedents for capability and utility in a rigid bike. Following Surly’s lead, several companies have since created bikepacking-specific models around the 29+ platform, as well as drop-bar bikes, hardtails, and even full-suspension 29+ mountain bikes.

As with other Gear Indexes, the factors we found particularly important to highlight are listed in red. These include maximum tire size (to the best of our knowledge) and hub/dropout width specs. In addition, note the bottom bracket spec. Many long-distance bikepackers prefer a threaded BB for certitude and serviceability on the road. Click each list item to expand the details and see a larger photo. The list of 29+ bikes is displayed in alphabetical order, with bikes we’ve tested grouped at the top and accompanied by a hexagonal “T” icon. We’ve decided to pay homage to the discontinued options by including them at the bottom of the list. Here’s the full cast of characters:

• $1999
  

  Bombtrack Beyond+

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel & Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 110 / 12 x 148mm
  • BB drop: 65mm

  See Our Full Review

  The Beyond+ is now only offered in a single version, but our review and what we’ve shared below remains accurate.

  We tested the Beyond+ 2 and were impressed. It’s a light, sharp-handling, fully rigid hardtail with all the bikepacking touches you’d expect from a company that’s passionate about adventure. Take away the carbon fork and GX drivetrain and you get the Beyond +1, which sports the same frame and geo, albeit with a different finish, a rigid steel fork, and a cheaper price tag. Like all good bikepacking rigs, it features provisions for fork bags and rear racks. And, should you want to run front suspension, a 120mm fork with 25% sag keeps the geometry the same. Or, slot in a 130mm fork with 30%, slackening it out a touch for big trail descents. Both the carbon fork and the steel for have eyelets for water bottles and cargo cages.

  You can also see more images of the Beyond +1 in Franzi Wernsing’s Rider and Rig.

  Highlights

  • Agile manners; fast and fun handling on singletrack
  • Versatile frame that’s ready for reinvention when the mood takes you
  • Excellent gear range for mountainous bikepacking
  • Clean, good looks
  • Relatively light for a steel hardtail
  • Modern standards in a classic steel frame makes a great combo

  Drawbacks

  • Pricey for a non-suspended hardtail
  • Relatively low BB requires some care with flat pedals and rocky conditions
  • SRAM brakes are bulky and get in the way of bags
  • Getting hold of Bombtracks can be tricky, as it’s a small company
  • No extra small sizes for folks of a smaller stature

  • Price: $1999 (Complete)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1175
  

  Crust Scapegoat

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire size: 26 x 3.8 or 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 148 / 15 x 110mm
  • BB drop: 58mm

  See Our Full Review

  The Scapegoat is Crust’s expedition bike. It features a low Q-Factor, go-anywhere design that fits about any tire. A tight rear end and longish top tube mean its meant for trails, yet is has a lot of traits that are suitable for multi-year expeditions. Unlike many fat bikes out there (although its not just a fat bike), the Scapegoat sports a 73mm Bottom Bracket shell, which allows a comfortable 170mm Q-Factor.

  The rocker dropouts mean you can run 26 × 3.8” tires, 650b/27.5 x 3.8″ tires, or full 29+ rubber. The frame is 4130 double butted Chromoly. What makes it most interesting is its non-suspension corrected fork. It features 15 x 110mm front dropouts, 12 x 148mm rear dropouts, and is loaded with mounts. Check out our long-term review here.

  Highlights

  • Purpose-built for heavy loads, lots of weight up front, and expedition-style bikepacking.
  • Clearance for 29+ tires across all sizes.
  • Many specs we appreciate, including sliding dropouts, thru-axles, boost hub spacing, external cables, and dropper post routing.
  • Relaxed, upright position is perfect for multi-day riding.
  • RRobots graphics and design input fit the Scapegoat philosophy.
  • Short reach would likely work well for drop bars in some cases.
  • Massive main triangle.

  Drawbacks

  • Steep head tube angle and short reach might not work for everyone and are somewhat limiting on steep terrain.
  • Slightly heavier than other 29+ rigid steel bikes, but steel 29+ ain’t ever light.
  • Unloaded, the handling feels twitchy. Toss a rack and some mini panniers on!
  • High bottom bracket and 29+ tires makes for a high, tippy perch. Stability is improved with weight.
  • 29 x 3.0” tire clearance doesn’t quite fit in the shortest rear dropout position.
  • More expensive than a Surly or Salsa, but more affordable than a Tumbleweed.

  • Price: $1175 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $4265AUD
  

  Curve GMX+

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium or Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: T47
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 110mm / 12 x 148mm

  See Our Full Review

  The Curve GMX+ has clearance for 29 x 3.0″ tires and some very unique mounting features, including a new fork with six mounts per blade, and an unprecedented seven pairs of bottle cage mounts on the frame. As its name implies, the GMX+ has clearance for full 3.0″ plus tires and is positioned as Melbourne-based Curve Cycling’s ultimate titanium (or steel) bikepacking bike.

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  • 

  The GMX+ Ti features a 3Al-2.5V Aerospace Grade 9 titanium frame with rear rack mounts and an unprecedented seven pairs of bottle cage mounts: two in the triangle, one under the downtube, two offset toward the top of the downtube, and one on each chain stay. The GMX+ frame comes in seven sizes ranging from XXS to XL. Sizes SM–XL are designed around 29″ wheels and clear 29 x 3.0″ tires, while XXS and XS frames run 27.5″ wheels and have clearance for 27.5 x 3.0″ rubber. This keeps the geometry proportions and handling characteristics consistent across all sizes, according to Curve.

  The GMX+ also has a much slacker geometry than the GMX, Boost spacing (15 x 110, 12 x 148mm), and a completely new non-suspension corrected carbon fork with 12 M5 mounts. Additional differences include the cable routing on the down tube instead of the top tube, a T47 bottom bracket shell, and an oversized seat tube for added stiffness. If titanium isn’t your thing, make sure to check out the steel GMX+.

  Find Miles’ complete review here.

  Pros

  • All of the mounts, including unique dual-offset bottle mounts on the downtube, across all sizes
  • Massive main triangle due to higher standover leaves plenty of room for water or a frame bag
  • Long wheelbase and plenty of tire clearance make for a super stable and comfortable ride quality, day after day
  • Long reach and low stack allow for easier swaps between handlebar types
  • Titanium tubing is lightweight and comfortable, but the more affordable steel GMX+ is also a good option
  • Great build quality, clean welds, and lots of nice details

  Cons

  • Long reach, low stack, and high standover might create some confusion when picking your size
  • Not particularly upright, which may not work for all riders
  • High standover isn’t ideal for technical terrain
  • Limited dealers outside of Australia, but more are coming, and Curve ships internationally
  • Pricey for a China-made titanium frame/fork, but possibly unique enough to justify it

  • Price: $4265AUD (frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: China
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2950
  

  Esker Hayduke LVS

  • Frame: Titanium
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.8"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 110 / 12 x 148mm

  See Our Full Review

  The Esker Hayduke LVS is a unique longtail with an efficiently constructed, cold-formed 3/2.5 titanium frame optimized for a 120mm suspension fork and clearance for 29 x 2.8″ tires. The LVS also features external cable routing, a threaded bottom bracket, the recently updated Portage Dropout equipped with a UDH (Universal Derailleur Hanger), and a 44mm headtube consistent with all Esker hardtails.

  • 
  • 

  Here’s an excerpt from Logan’s review: “The most obvious target audience is those I mentioned in the last sentence above: riders looking for a gravel or dirt-road expedition bike who need to carry more stuff, such as folks with a dog as a co-pilot. The second most salient use case for the LVS is on a generally long dirt tour. Its ability to centralize weight using the second triangle behind the seat tube shouldn’t be overlooked. Plus, it’s extremely comfortable to pedal and less taxing due to its stability. However, there are drawbacks. Sticking it on a bus or train may be challenging, and fitting it into a tight hotel room might pose some additional challenges. Boxing it for a flight will also add a little complexity. But it’s kind of perfect for a long-distance, non-singletrack-heavy desert route like the Baja Divide. You can load more water, and the long, comfy frame and plus-tire capacity round out an ideal set of specs.”

  Highlights

  • Beautiful and lightweight titanium frame with plenty gear mounts, ample tire clearance, and versatile dropouts
  • Has extra room to carry more stuff yet still generally rides like a hardtail mountain bike
  • Supple frame that manages to feel very quick and lively
  • Super stable platform that allows you to mindfully pedal and not have to focus on using your core for balance and steering
  • Lots of traction for climbing and can slowly tractor up and over anything
  • Boosted confidence when descending due to long rear end

  Drawbacks

  • Sizing isn’t consistent with Hayduke, as originally reported
  • Difficult to store in places designed for normal bikes, such as our van, pre-hung wall racks, etc.
  • More challenging to pack in bike box and will likely be tricky (if not impossible) to load in a bus or public transport
  • Standard rear racks place the load too far rearward, making it ideal for use with a custom rack or the MOLLE Rackwald

  • Price: $2950 (frame-only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $3000
  

  Esker Japhy

  • Frame: Steel/Titanium
  • Tire Clearance: 29 x 2.8"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • DROPOUTS (F/R): 15 X 110MM / 12 X 148MM
  • BB Drop : 65mm

  See Our Full Review

  Released as a 29” alternative to the incredibly versatile Hayduke, the Esker Japhy is a chromoly steel hardtail with 29+ tires, a 120mm travel fork, and three value-packed builds to choose from. It features adjustable rocker-style dropouts, progressive trail-ready geometry, and clearance for 29×2.8″ tires. We’ve heard that some true 29 x 3.0” tires will fit with the dropouts backed all the way out, but can’t confirm.

  From Miles’ review: There’s no question that the Japhy offers a lot of bang for its buck and is incredibly capable. If your perfect day on the bike involves long service road climbs, backcountry singletrack, or rambling down forgotten trails, the Japhy should be near the top of your list. On the other hand, the Hayduke is a little less progressive but arguably better suited for general purpose bikepacking, especially for smaller riders who prefer 27.5 x 2.8” tires and want more frame bag space. In the end, both bikes are dialled for trail riding and singletrack-heavy bikepacking and are shining examples of what modern, steel hardtails should be.

  Want a space metal version? The Esker Japhy is also available as a titanium model and features all the same specs.

  Highlights

  • Well-balanced geometry for trail riding and big descents, with an emphasis on big backcountry terrain
  • Well-specced build kits offer great bang for the buck. Buy and ride!
  • Bikepacking-friendly features that include external cables, adjustable dropouts, and frame bag bosses
  • Clean, aesthetically pleasing frame

  Drawbacks

  • Tight 29 x 2.8″ tire clearance falls short of a true 29+ trail bike
  • Minimal frame bag space could be frustrating for those on smaller sizes
  • No rear rack mounts
  • Heavy

  • Price: $3000 (J1 Complete)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1375
  

  Jones Plus LWB

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel (or ti Truss)
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.25"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded Eccentric
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 150mm / 12 x 148mm
  • BB drop: 88mm

  See Our Full Review

  When we tested the rigid-specific Jones Plus (now rebranded LWB), we were blown away by its trail manners; we never expected a bike that was so upright and comfortable to ride could also be so capable on technical singletrack. The latest iteration features some tweaks; there’s now provision for a rear rack and the rear hub is Boost-spaced (rather than 135QR), which helps clearances with 1x drivetrains and wider plus tires. As per all of Jones’ bikes, all forks can be shod with 26 x 4.3” fat tires if you want some extra “suspension” to your ride. And, in addition to the steel and Ti truss options, there’s now a more user-friendly steel unicrown fork, with the exact same offset and dimensions. Note that the BB drop is offset by the ability to rotate the eccentric bottom bracket by as much as 12mm and the fact that all Jones bikes are specced with cranks 5mm shorter than usual. There are two sizes and a number of colors to choose from. We tested the steel diamond frame, but there are also spaceframes and titanium options too.

  Priced below with truss fork. You can also purchase a frameset for $1,100 with a Steel Diamond frame with unicrown fork (most economical build) or with a steel truss fork for £1,350. Top of the line is the Ti spaceframe and truss fork, which goes for $4,550.

  Pros

  • Incredibly comfortable ride, across all its applications.
  • Surprisingly capable over technical terrain.
  • A stable load carrier that doesn’t sacrifice enjoyment either.
  • Possibility of different wheel sizes to suit different riders and frame sizes.

  Cons

  • Lack of braze-ons for fork-mounted water bottles and Anything Cages, as well as easy fitment of a rear rack – you’ll need to use p-clips.
  • Somewhat proprietary parts, though this is changing with the next frameset evolution.
  • Relatively expensive for a Taiwanese-made chromo bike, though quality is excellent, and the fork is undoubtedly costly to manufacture.
  • Rohloff compatibility is limited on the 135mm versions of the frames, and (currently) ruled out on the next generation of Boost frames.

  • Price: $1375 (Frame/Truss Fork)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1199
  

  Kona Unit X

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 X 3.0″ / 29 X 2.8″
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 X 110MM / 12 X 148MM
  • BB drop: 65mm

  See Our Full Review

  The Kona Unit X was completely revamped in 2020, and these changes hold true today. It’s now built around 29 x 2.6″ tires, boost hub spacing (148 x 12mm rear and 110 x 15mm front), and its geometry was updated to follow modern trail bike trends. The frame has two standard bottle mounts in the main triangle, downtube mounts, and triple pack mounts on the fork legs. It also has front and rear rack mounts and fender bosses for even more versatility. Logan was so impressed with the 2020 Kona Unit X that it was our top pick for our 2020 Bikepacking Awards. Make sure read our full review here.

  Highlights

  • Incredibly versatile geometry that’s equally at home on the trail as it is on gravel roads
  • Great value for the complete
  • Slotted dropouts can be used for singlespeed or IGH conversion

  Drawbacks

  • Minor build kit gripes, including narrow 760mm handlebars, and no dropper post.

  • Price: $1199 (Complete)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $3995
  

  Otso Voytek

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: Pressfit 83mm
  • DROPOUTS (F/R): 15 x 150mm / 12 x 177mm
  • BB Drop: 58-62mm

  See Our Full Review

  The Otso Voytek is quite unique among the world of fat bikes. Owing to its narrow Q-factor and XC-inspired geometry, it’s equally suited to running massive 26 x 4.0″ tires in the winter or 27.5+ or 29+ mountain bike wheels in the summer. The fork has three-pack mounts on both legs for cargo cages or racks and can now clear 26 x 5.4″ tires (the frame is maxed out at 26 x 4.8″). It’s built up around a carbon frame and fork, thru-axles, hydraulic brakes, and a well-rounded, performance-oriented component list that appears to leave little to be desired.

  From Miles’ review: “If your type of riding is suited for a lightweight, rigid mountain bike with XC-esque geometry, the Voytek might just fit the bill. It’s fun to ride, light, and has all the necessary provisions for loading it up for bikepacking. The fact that Otso lets you choose nearly every component when purchasing a complete build using only products they’d recommend to a friend is a huge bonus. So, while the complete builds come at a price—starting at nearly $4,000—they are dialed and well specced for the money.”

  The Otso Voytek 2 was released in 2023 with a headset flip-chip to tweak the reach and head tube angle. Learn all about that here.

  Highlights

  • Lots of tire clearance and wheel/tire configurations
  • Narrow Q-factor is less of a shock than traditional fat bikes
  • No shortage of mounting points, room for their custom Revelate Designs frame bag, and options to run a rear rack
  • Lightweight, high-quality builds
  • Completely customizable thanks to Otso’s online bike builder
  • Zippy and nimble handling thanks to stiff frame and XC-inspired geo

  Drawbacks

  • Q-factor is noticeable for those sensitive to bike fit
  • Sluggish on long sustained climbs
  • Stiff carbon frame and fork take some getting used to
  • Offset fork leg mounts can be limiting
  • Complete builds start at nearly $4,000

  • Price: $3995 (Base Complete)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1349
  

  Panorama Taiga

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.8" / 27.5 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 110mm / 12 x 148mm
  • BB Drop: 65mm

  See Our Full Review

  The Panorama Taïga is based around a Reynolds 725 steel frame, 29 x 2.8″ tire clearance, lots of mounting points, and can be set up with a rigid or suspension fork. The Taïga was updated in 2023, and it addresses some of the minor issues we had with the original version. On the geometry front, the bottom bracket has been lowered by 5mm, and the stack/reach numbers have also increased slightly. Complete builds are now specced with size-specific dropper post lengths, 32-spoke wheels from Hunt, and the rigid fork comes stock, but suspension forks are available upon request. The Taïga is available as a frame only, frameset, complete build, and with a Rohloff hub. Check out Miles’ review here.

  Highlights

  • Packed with all the right features, including sliding dropouts, loads of mounts, and external cables
  • Choice of rigid or suspension fork is a nice touch
  • Balanced geometry that handles trails and the extra weight of gear naturally

  Drawbacks

  • Tiny main triangle with little room for a frame bag
  • Stock dropper post is too short on larger sizes
  • Limited to three sizes
  • A little heavy and sluggish at times

  • Price: $1349 (Frame / Fork)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2499
  

  Revel Wayward

  • Frame: Cold Formed Titanium
  • max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 110mm / 12 x 148mm
  • BB Drop: 75mm

  See Our Full Review

  The Revel Wayward is a beautifully made titanium 29+ rig with a penchant for singletrack trails. It was updated in 2020 with proper 29+ tire clearance, the geometry was tweaked to handle 120mm suspension forks, and the seat tube was shortened to leave room for longer dropper posts. Both Logan and TJ have spent some serious time on the Wayward, and agree it is extremely versatile for bikepacking and trail riding, and perhaps one of the best riding 29+ out there.

  Highlights

  • Extremely versatile for bikepacking or trail riding, the Wayward does it all
  • Titanium ride quality will get you through long days in the saddle
  • Attention to detail means this frame is like a rolling piece of art
  • Multiple Bottle mounts (2 Mounts in the frame and 1 on the bottom of the downtube)

  Drawbacks

  • Pricey, but it should last a lifetime
  • No complete build options listed online

  • Price: $2499 (frame-only)
  • Place of Manufacture: China
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2599
  

  Salsa Fargo

  • Frame/fork: Steel or Ti/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0" / 27.5 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 110 x 15mm / 12 x 148mm

  The Salsa Fargo is the bike that started it all. Built for long rides like the Tour Divide, it’s a dirt-drop 29er at heart. Since then, Salsa has refined it to be a versatile machine. 29 x 3.0″ (or 27.5+ tires) are its sweet spot, although with a 70mm BB drop, it can run just about anything. While we haven’t reviewed the Fargo directly, we spent plenty of time on the old 29+ Deadwood, which is essentially the same bike with a color and graphics change. Find details about Gin’s 29 x 2.6″ Deadwood set up.

  The Fargo frameset is also available in a titanium version, for those on the hunt for a space metal dream bike. Check it out here.

  Highlights

  • Comfortable, upright geometry that’s perfect for multi-day dirt touring and bikepacking
  • Lots of mounting points for cages, racks, and more
  • Offers reasonable value for the price
  • Available in both titanium and steel
  • Generous tire clearance

  Drawbacks

  • Somewhat basic stock build kit and no dropper post
  • Low standover means minimal frame bag space on smaller sizes
  • Mechanical disc brakes on stock build

  • Price: $2599 (Apex 1 Build)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• £720
  

  Stooge Dirt Tracker

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 110x15mm / 148x12mm

  See Our Full Review

  The Dirt Tracker is Stooge’s modern take on the tracker bikes that ruled in post-war Britain. According to Andy of Stooge Cycles, “With their huge handlebars, kinked top tubes, and dirt action attitude, this is my great ‘what if?’ What if the Trackers hadn’t died their natural death in the 1970s and continued to develop into mountain crushing, trail slaying, utilitarian ultra beasts?”

  Stooge’s Dirt Tracker is a rigid 29+ mountain bike that’s designed to be as trail-capable as the Dirtbomb but loses the additional tank tube, gains a beefed up biplane fork, and has increased utility with more bottle and rack mounts. Just like the Dirtbomb and Speedbomb, the Stooge Dirt Tracker is only available in the one size: 18″ with 459mm reach (625mm effective top tube). It’s made from seamless, double-butted 4130 Chromoly steel, uses a 30.9mm seatpost with internal dropper routing, boost hub spacing, IS brake mounts front and rear, and a 73mm threaded bottom bracket with a standard EBB insert. It has a 66-degree head tube angle, a 65mm fork offset, and appears to have lots of potential as a dedicated bikepacking rig. Read more in Logan’s review here.

  Highlights

  • Incredible ride quality and supple feel that’s still lively and quick
  • Lower BB with a slightly longer chainstay and more fork offset offers a brilliant blend of stability and playfulness
  • The perfect Stooge aesthetic with beautiful curves and bends
  • All the mounts you could need
  • Bi-plane, raked-out fork is a thing of beauty
  • Doom Tracker bars are the icing on the cake

  Drawbacks

  • Not available in multiple sizes
  • Would love to see this bike with a sliding dropout vs. the eccentric BB
  • A third mount on the downtube would be useful for larger cargo cages

  • Price: £720 (frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• £780
  

  Stooge MK7

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.8" / 27.5 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: Eccentric
  • Dropouts (F/R): 110x15mm / 148x12mm
  • BB Drop: 60mm

  See Our Full Review

  The MK7 is the latest iteration of the bike that started it all for Stooge back in 2014. The Stooge MK7 is a classic mix of the Scrambler and the MK4. It has lots of bikepacking potential but doesn’t shy away from rowdy trail rides and big skids. The official wheel size is 29×3 front/29×2.3-2.6 rear, but it also plays nicely with 29 x 2.6″ – 2.8″ and 27.5+. Make sure to check out Logan’s review here.

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  Highlights

  • Extremely fun bike—perhaps the most fun I’ve had on a rigid mountain bike ever, or at least since the original Krampus
  • A playful yet stable geometry that’s near perfect for rigid trail riding
  • Nice tubing selection and design that’s both comfortable and lively
  • Original look marries a classic aesthetic and klunker vibes with modern angles
  • Love the 2.6 / 3.0” 29er combo
  • A versatile platform that’s good for many configurations: singlespeeding, bikepacking, trail bike, etc, etc.

  Drawbacks

  • No mounts underneath downtube
  • Top tube/seat tube junction could be a centimeter or two higher
  • Internal gusset at down tube/head tube junction would be a cleaner look
  • Small and XL sizes would be nice
  • Heavy frameset

  • Price: £780 (Frame / Fork)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1849
  

  Surly Krampus

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 110 / 12 x 142/148mm
  • BB drop : 60mm

  The Surly Krampus started it all. The first plus tire bike, the first 29+ bike, and arguably the first bike that drew the term “bikepacking bike.” Why? Although the comparable bikepacking-specific Surly ECR can do it all, the Krampus dominates steep rooty singletrack, rock gardens, and technical conditions between the two. It’s a trail bike at heart. The high bottom bracket and slack geometry make it a thrill ride, and honestly one of the most fun, confidence inspiring bikes you’ll come across. The best analogy is that it’s comparable to being a big kid on a grown up BMX bike, one that can plow over anything. Even loaded with a frame bag, seat bag, and handlebar luggage, it performs well and feels solid and confident. If you are waffling over other bikes, and enjoy trail riding as much as you do bikepacking, the Krampus is a must-ride.

  Highlights

  • First plus tire and 29+ bike
  • Balanced geometry that’s suitable for trail riding and bikepacking
  • Rack mounts and downtube mounts
  • Rigid and suspension builds

  Drawbacks

  • No seat tube mounts
  • No dropper post on rigid builds
  • Heavy, affordable build kit leaves room for improvement

  • Price: $1849 (Rigid Complete)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2999
  

  Trek 1120

  • Frame/Fork: Alloy/Carbon
  • Max Tire SIze: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: PressFit 92
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 110mm / 12 x 148mm

  See Our Full Review

  The Trek 1120’s unique rack and harness systems are smart, well executed, and what set this bike apart. In addition, the fork that comes on it might be the best in its class, as far as carbon 29+ forks go. This is what will sell this bike. And, as some riders can’t quite get their pack list down to the standard kit, or others need bigger kits or space for more water, or smaller riders need an alternative packing option, the 1120’s harness system and rear rack provides a very innovative, functional and solid solution.

  When we tested this bike the Baja Divide sprang to mind… as did other such long-distance, sandy, water-starved bikepacking routes. For such trips 29+ tires are ideal, and having all the gear you need on the two racks frees up five bottle mounts for water storage. The Trek 1120 begs for such pursuits.

  Highlights

  • The front rack and fork are unparalleled and offer several major advantages over typical handlebar-mounted bags. Plus the fork is quite nice with two sets of triple bosses.
  • With racks, this size large Trek 1120 — set up tubeless — weighs 29.4lbs… incredible for a big-footed bike with two chunky, well-built racks.
  • A well-conceived geometry leaning more toward distance dirt tourer.
  • Good choice of drivetrain components for bikepacking and dirt touring.
  • Rear rack and harness system are a nice way to add more volume than a typical seat pack…all while slightly lowering the center of gravity. And it’s rock solid.

  Drawbacks

  • The PressFit bottom bracket will likely be one of the biggest gripes about this bike.
  • Playing the devil’s advocate, the aluminum frame will likely be the second con. While it’s not as vibration dampening and repairable as steel, it’s certainly lightweight.
  • The frame triangle doesn’t quite jive with size large universal fit frame bags. The best bet is a custom bag if you want a frame pack.
  • I would prefer a rigid seatpost and a price closer to $2k. But, considering you get two racks, the harnesses, and don’t necessarily need any bikepacking bags, it’s actually not a bad deal.
  • If it were up to me, the front-end would be a little slacker.

  • Weight: 13.34 kg (29.41 lbs)
  • Price: $2999 (With Racks)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2900
  

  Tumbleweed Prospector

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 26 x 4.0" / 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Custom EBB
  • Dropouts (F/R): 100 QR or 110 thru / 135mm QR
  • BB drop: 58mm

  See Our Full Review

  The Tumbleweed Prospector is a unique do-it-all expedition bike made specifically for bikepacking and dirt-road touring. The Prospector’s headline feature is a custom yoke designed to allow its steel, symmetrical frame accommodate fat tires up to 4″ wide with a standard-width, über reliable Rohloff Speedhub. Translation? Without need for an extra-wide bottom bracket shell, there’s no increase in the distance between the pedals and the resulting Q Factor, a fat bike trait that’s irksome to many.

  However, there’s more to the Prospector than that. For those plus-tires, the prospector has a custom eccentric Bottom Bracket allowing a half an inch of bottom bracket height adjustability (12mm), in turn making it equally as suitable for 29+ and 27.5+ tires. The frame is built around a standard 135mm dropout for easy-to-source hubs as well as a 100mm QR fork (or 110mm with an optional thru-axle fork). The frame also features a suspension-corrected geometry. And, it has as all the necessary braze-ons for racks, panniers, and a myriad of water bottles. All of which makes for a very versatile bike, one that Tumbleweed promotes as a rugged, adaptable, backcountry explorer, as well as a fun rig to spin around the local trails.

  To learn more, find two Rider and Rigs on this site featuring the Prospector, one with filmmaker Jay Ritchey set up 27.5+, and one with world traveller Pepper Cook. Also, read the pre-launch QA with founder Daniel Malloy.

  Highlights

  • Insanely capable and versatile
  • Surprisingly nimble and quick
  • Elegant attention to finishing details
  • Tubing choices and frame design are great for far-flung trips as well as local trail rides
  • Standard MTB Q-factor even when used with 4” tires
  • Loads of mud clearance (especially in 27.5+ and 29+)

  Drawbacks

  • Heavy (especially with a Rohloff)
  • Lack of more efficient routing for stack of cables at the chainstay (when Rohloff is mounted)
  • Dropouts are limited to 135mm
  • Expensive compared to some other steel framesets (although it comes with Phil Wood EBB)
  • Limited to 4″ tires on 65mm rims
  • Can feel a little harsh on rough trails compared to more supple frames

  • Price: $2900 (Frameset/Rohloff Kit)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1400
  

  Tumbleweed Sunliner

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 110mm / 12 x 148mm

  See Our Full Review

  The Sunliner is a fully rigid mountain touring bike built with the same ultra high end steel tubeset and construction as the their Stargazer, but with the geometry from the Prospector that has been optimized for flat/swept back bars. The Sunliner has the same non-suspension corrected fork design as the Stargazer, which creates a huge front triangle and allows for maximum framebag space and easy fender mounting. The Sunliner can fit up to a 29 x 3.0″ tire and has all the mounting points for racks, fenders, and gear you would expect for a bike designed from the ground up for off-road touring.

  • 
  • 

  Here’s an excerpt from Logan’s review: “The Sunliner’s obviously not meant to be a fast, racey gravel bike. Nor is it designed to be a mountain bike with bullish technical descending capabilities. However, it kind of excels at opening up possibilities in a wide spectrum of uses, terrain, and surface types—dare I say wider than the Stargazer or other similar drop-bar bikes. And it does so without needing to be some genre-defying, ultra-innovative creation. As I was discussing it with a couple of colleagues, we settled on calling it an honest bike, one that’s transparent in use for all kinds of endeavors, and it’s a bike you can just hop on and pedal without overthinking what or where you should ride.”

  Highlights

  • Well-balanced geometry makes the Sunliner capable on a broad spectrum of surfaces and all-terrain rides
  • Very stable with loads of traction when climbing in and out of the saddle
  • Nicely specced and constructed tubeset that’s comfy and responsive
  • No gussets give it a clean look
  • Rigid-specific frame translates to long head tube and large triangle for frame bag
  • All the mounts and feels great with a load
  • Nice color options; I love the Rhubarb
  • Great value for high-end frameset

  Drawbacks

  • No native singlespeed capability with EBB or sliding dropout (it would be a solid singlespeed)
  • Top three-pack mount on seat tube is unnecessary and limits dropper post length
  • Heavy front end might bother some people
  • Lack of 2x compatibility will likely be an issue for a few folks
  • Complete is a little pricey

  • Price: $1400 (frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2490
  

  Bearclaw Buck Macho

  • Frame: Titanium
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.8"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 110mm / 12 x 148mm

  We’ll let Bearclaw provide the introduction: “Our founder, Chet Bearclaw, didn’t become a billionaire overnight. It was a Friday morning. He had just returned to earth after a short trip to Proxima B via the pineal gland. Without diving too deep into the details, Chet brought back with him an advanced perspective and this idea for a new hardtail MTB frame. He spoke, we listened. Buck Macho was born. Buck is the perfect do-it-all MTB frame. Name a thing and Buck does it well. Down the mountain? Yes. Up the mountain? Yes. Singletrack? Yes. Bikepacking? Yes. Buck does all of these things well, yes.”

  Highlights

  • Clearance for 29 x 2.8″ tires, even in short dropout position
  • Sliding dropouts
  • Three bottle mounts and external seatpost bosses for longer dropper post
  • Framesets and complete builds available

  Drawbacks

  • Pricey

  • Price: $2490 (frame)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2390
  

  Bearclaw TOWMAK

  • Frame: Titanium
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0" / 27.5 x 4.5"
  • Bottom Bracket: 100mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 150mm / 12 x 197mm

  The TŌWMAK is a drop bar fat bike. It’s built up around a titanium frame and your choice of a carbon or titanium (coming soon) fork. Unlike other drop bar fat bikes you can find online, the TŌWMAK features true gravel bike geometry, or what they call Ultradistance Gravel Friendly Geometry—the same as the Beaux Jaxon we reviewed and that also appears in this list.

  Highlights

  • A true drop-bar fat bike with ability to run 29+ tires
  • Rack mounts and multiple bottle mounts
  • Full drop-bar size range

  Drawbacks

  • Expensive
  • No complete build options available online

  • Price: $2390 (Frame only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2099
  

  Binary Havoc

  • Frame: Titanium
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropout: 148 x 12mm
  • BB Drop: 70mm

  The Binary Havoc is a versatile titanium adventure bike designed to ride fast and long. It was designed around drop bars and big 29+ tires, has a big front triangle for a massive frame bag, and mounts for racks, fenders, and cages. It’s 1x and 2x compatible, has internal dropper post routing, and can even be set up with a 100mm travel suspension fork for those looking to really push its capabilities. The Havoc is offered in five sizes.

  Highlights

  • Interesting angles and specs, with drop bars, 29+ tires, and ability to run a suspension fork
  • Five size options
  • Sliding dropouts
  • Competitive pricing for a titanium bike

  Drawbacks

  • Interesting main triangle might require a custom frame bag

  • Price: $2099 (frame only)
  • Place of Manufacture: China
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2099
  

  Binary Kinetik

  • Frame: Titanium
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropout: 148x12mm Boost
  • BB Drop: 60mm

  The Kinetik titanium expedition frame is a fantastic hardtail adventure bike that offers a longer travel and flat-bar design, ideal for your extended riding adventures. It can accommodate a 100-120mm suspension fork, and 29 x 3.0″ tires and is kitted out with mounting points for hauling gear, including rear rack mounts, top tube mounts, seat stay bosses, downtube mounts, and a main triangle optimized for frame bag space.

  Pros

  • Lots of mounting points
  • Large main triangle
  • Seat stay mounts
  • Competitive pricing
  • Seven frame sizes

  Cons

  • No in-stock complete builds

  • Price: $2099 (Frame Only)
  • Place of Manufacture: China
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2099
  

  Binary Maniak

  • Frame: Titanium
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • DROPOUTS (F/R): 15 X 110MM / 12 X 148MM
  • BB Drop: 58mm

  Arizona-based Binary Bicycles’ latest model was born from a collaboration with Steve from Hardtail Party. Together, they set out to design a modern, aggressive titanium hardtail, claiming that there’s nothing quite like it currently available. The Maniak is long, low, and slack, and has short chainstays. It’s designed around a 120mm fork but can handle up to a 150mm and has clearance for 29 x 3.0″ tires. It comes equipped with sliding Paragon-style dropouts for an adjustable chainstay length, which allows it to be set up as single-speed or geared.

  Highlights

  • Trail-friendly geometry and 29+ tire clearance
  • Sliding dropouts offers more drivetrain options
  • Competitive pricing for a titanium hardtail
  • Six frame sizes

  Drawbacks

  • Small main triangle leaves little room for a frame bag
  • No rear rack mounts

  • Price: $2099 (Frame Only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2249
  

  Bombtrack Beyond+ ADV

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 110mm / 12 x 148mm
  • BB drop: 70mm

  The ADV is the bigger sibling of the Beyond+. Technically, it shouldn’t be in our listing, as it’s not a fully rigid steel bike, but, the carbon fork comes with triple eyelets for cargo cages, and you could also swap it out for an aftermarket rigid fork if you prefer the idea of traveling with steel over carbon. This aside, it fits the criteria of an overland explorer perfectly. With its 1×12 Eagle GX cassette, it boasts a wide gear range, and it also has WTB tubeless-ready rims and our favourite Ranger Tough tires. It comes with the ultra-comfortable Jones Loop H-Bar, too. This is a bike you could get rowdy on, too; it’s suspension corrected for a 120mm fork, set up with 25% sage, or you can even push it to 130mm with 30%.

  Highlights

  • Lots of mounting points
  • Carbon fork with three-pack mounts
  • Compatible with suspension forks
  • Competitive pricing for both complete builds and framesets

  Drawbacks

  • Carbon fork won’t be for everyone

  • Price: $2249 (Complete)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1499
  

  Breezer Thunder

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.95"
  • Bottom Bracket: BSA Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 110 x 15mm / 148 x 12mm
  • BB Drop: 70mm

  The Breezer Thunder is a fully rigid steel mountain bike with a reasonable price tag and some pretty appealing features for bikepacking. It’s built up around a Chromoly steel frame and fork, boost hub spacing and thru-axles, external cable routing (as well as internal dropper post routing), and has clearance for tires up to 29 x 2.95” wide. The frame itself is fully kitted out with mounting options, including rack and fenders, standard bottle mounts, triple pack mounts on the fork legs and the seat stays, plus additional bosses on the top tube and under the downtube.

  Highlights

  • Fork mounts, top tube mounts, seat stay mounts, and more
  • Impressive price point makes for a very affordable bike
  • Rigid or 100mm travel fork
  • Versatile geo

  Drawbacks

  • A few budget components, but not a deal breaker
  • 67.7° head tube angle might be suited to a longer travel fork for some folks

  • Price: $1499
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1499
  

  Carver Gnarvester

  • Frame: Titanium
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): Interchangeable Sliding

  See Our Full Review

  From Gabe in his Rider and Rig: “The Carver Gnarvester really does live up to its name, I can pick my way up tight lines, ride skinnies, drop ledges, and then unpack and make a cup of pourover. It’s an extremely versatile bike and I’m excited to see how the Plus platforms revolutionize not just the bikepacking world in the coming years— but the whole mountain biking realm.”

  Check out the aluminum Gnarvester for the same tire clearance but something much more affordable.

  Highlights

  • Customizable geo and features upon request
  • Relatively affordable for a titanium mountain bike
  • Sliding dropouts

  Drawbacks

  • 10 frame sizes seems excessive

  • Price: $1499 (Frame Only (Titanium))
  • Place of Manufacture: China
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• €2200
  

  Cinelli Hobootleg Geo

  • Frame/fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 110 x 15mm / 12 x 148mm

  The Hobootleg GEO features a COLUMBUS Cromor double-butted steel tube set based around a 73mm bottom bracket shell. With that it fits tires up to 29 x 3.0″. Other frame features include three pairs of triple-pack eyelets (on the fork and down tube), flared handlebars, and a 2×10 drivetrain.

  Highlights

  • Lots of mounts, external cable routing, and modern specs
  • Matching carbon fork with three-pack mounts
  • Reasonable value for the price
  • Two complete build options
  • Euro-based and USA warehouses for faster/cheaper shipping

  Drawbacks

  • Interesting build kit

  • Price: €2200
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2900
  

  Corvus Crow Pass

  • Frame: Titanium
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: BSA Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 110mm / 12 x 148mm

  The Crow Pass incorporates the stiff yet supple qualities of a gravel bike with the sturdy versatility of a fat bike. It’s based around a titanium frame and a rigid carbon fork, and it can be built up with either 27.5″ wheels with fat tires or 29″ mountain bike wheels. The frame and fork are fully kitted out with mounting points for racks, cages, and bottles, including triple pack mounts on the fork legs, rear rack mounts, two triple pack mounts inside the main triangle, and an additional under the downtube. There are top tube mounts for a bolt-on top tube bag, and the drive side seatstay/top tube junction has a built-in portage handle to make it easier to lift with a frame bag on. Read our entire press release here.

  Highlights

  • Compatible with 27.5″ and 29″ wheels/tires
  • Loads of mounting points for gear and water
  • Integrated portage handle is a nice touch
  • Corvus Adventure Fork has flip-chip dropout and three-pack mounts

  Drawbacks

  • Pricey
  • Only three size options

  • Price: $2900 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $3695
  

  Funk Cycles 29+ Taiga Hard Tail

  • Frame: Titanium
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: BSA Threaded
  • Dropouts: Boost (148) or Super Boost (157)

  The Funk Cycles 29+ Hard Tail Taiga is designed around 29+ wheels with a chainstay yoke made from 6Al/4V titanium plate. The design allows clearance for a 3.0″ tire with either a BOOST or super-BOOST chainline. The Taiga is named after the great coniferous forest that makes up over 29% of the world’s forest cover and circles the globe at high northern latitudes.

  Highlights

  • Handmade in USA
  • Lots of custom options, including custom geo, available at no charge

  Drawbacks

  • Pricey, due to being US-made

  • Price: $3695 (Frame only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Colorado, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $4695
  

  Funk Cycles La Ruta (29+ Full Suspension)

  • Frame: Titanium
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 83mm threaded
  • Dropouts: 157 x 12mm

  The Funk Cycles La Ruta 29+ is constructed from seamless cold-worked stress-relieved (CWSR) 3Al/2.5V titanium tubing, and a unique 6Al/4V titanium flex plate. The La Ruta Plus is a lightweight full-suspension frame that delivers 60mm of active, pivot-less suspension. Combined with the cushion, traction, and incredible rollover-ability 29+ tires, the La Ruta Plus is quite the unique machine. Other features include Paragon Slider dropouts, Super-Boost 157 x 12mm rear spacing, 83mm BSA bottom bracket, 30.9mm Seatpost, 6Al/4V chock mount, and a Fox CTD Kashima Boost-Valve Shock or Rockshox Monarch RT3.

  Highlights

  • Handmade in USA
  • Lots of custom options, including custom geo, available at no charge

  Drawbacks

  • Pricey, due to being US-made

  • Weight: 2.16 kg (4.76 lbs)
  • Price: $4695 (Frame only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Colorado, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2242
  

  Hunt Bikes 29+

  • Frame/fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: PF30 PressFit
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm
  • BB Drop: 62mm

  We’ve long admired Hunt’s frames from afar, elegant as they are. Hunt is based in Australia, but framesets can be shipped worldwide. Designed to accommodate both 29” and 29+ tires, these bikepacking-orientated framesets come in three sizes and two colors: gloss black and brushed chrome. As you’d expect from a company enamoured by bikepacking (see the Hunt 1000 event that they put on across the Australian Alps), there’s no shortage of bag and water bottle mounts. Note though that there’s no provision for racks, as by their own admission, they much prefer soft bags, and the bottom bracket is press fit rather than threaded.

  Highlights

  • Simple, no fuss design
  • Designed for the Hunt 1000 in Australia

  Drawbacks

  • Only three size options
  • Expensive
  • No rack mounts

  • Price: $2242 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2475
  

  Jones LWB HD/E Complete

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max tire: 29 x 3.25
  • Droupouts F/R: 15 x 150m / 12 / 148mm
  • Bottom Bracket : 68mm threaded

  The Jones LWB HD/E is the latest addition to the Jones range. At first glance, it looks similar to the Jones LWB Complete. However, closer inspection reveals a very different beast. Although the reach, angles, and all-important fork offset remain the same, the HD/E sports 1in longer seats stays… effectively making it a Jones XLWB!

  These long stays free up more space for big panniers, help keep the bike stable under heavy loads, and prevents the front from lifting on heavy climbs. In addition, the clue is in the name: Heavy Duty / Electric. This bike uses a heavier gauge of head-treated tubing to ensure it can handle heavy heavy loads, or even an e-bike conversion kit, like a Bafang. The longer wheelbase creates enough space to fit one without any issues.

  A burly bike needs burly wheels. Hoops are Jones’ own. They’re 50mm wide and the rims have 36 holes, and are double-walled and eyeletted. They’re tubeless-ready, too, using Jones’ own Shraeder kit. In other regards, this bike is similar to the Jones LWB Complete, as seen here. The LWB HD/E is available as a frame only, and you can mix and match with a unicrown or truss fork.

  We did notice that the frame loses eyelets under the downtube, which is disappointing. Nor are there any on the seat tube due to the bend, though the upper side of the downtube does at least have provision for two water bottles, or a cargo cage and a water bottle cage.

  Highlights

  • Long seat stays increase stability and gear-hauling power
  • Versatile and adaptable geometry that Jones is known for
  • Upright riding position is very comfortable , though not at the cost of performance
  • Low standover means the frame is suited to a wide variety of rider heights

  Drawbacks

  • 3″ tyres and 1x drivetrains can create issues in muddy conditions
  • No downtube bosses

  • Price: $2475
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2650
  

  Lenz Sport Behemoth

  • Frame: Alloy
  • Tire Clearance: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts: 12 x 157mm

  The made-in-USA Lenz Sport Behemoth is positioned to fit either 29+ or 27.5+ tires. Lenz claims incredible traction for climbing steep technical and loose trails, as well as a plush ride quality for fast descents. The Fat Behemoth can be built with either four or five inches of rear travel and fork between 150 and 160mm. The short chainstays are designed for maneuverability and is specific to 1x component groups.

  Highlights

  • Handmade in Colorado
  • One of the most aggressive 29+ trail bikes available
  • Mullet-approved

  Drawbacks

  • Pricey, due to being handmade in USA
  • No cargo mounts, small main triangle, and just one bottle mount

  • Price: $2650 (Frame/shock)
  • Place of Manufacture: USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2650
  

  Lenz Sport Mammoth

  • Frame: Alloy
  • Tire Clearance: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropout: 12 x 148mm

  The Mammoth+ is Lenz’s cross country plus bike. It can be set up 29+ or 27.5+ and can work with a 1x or 2x drivetrain. Lenz claims this as a fast and light bike with room for bottles or frame bags for bikepacking or long distance racing.

  Highlights

  • Handmade in Colorado
  • One of the most aggressive 29+ trail bikes available
  • Mullet-approved

  Drawbacks

  • Pricey, due to being handmade in USA
  • No cargo mounts, small main triangle, and just one bottle mount

  • Price: $2650 (Frame/shock)
  • Place of Manufacture: USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1325
  

  MONē El Continente

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Clearance: 29 x 3.0" / 27.5 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 110mm / 12 x 148mm

  Designed around 29er or 27.5+ tires, with raw brass fillets, a bi-plane, curved offset fork, custom butted tubes, and short telescoping chainstays, this frame is a new take on a classic. According to Cjell MONē, it’s a drop-bar, plus, dirt tourer, born on the Tour Divide. Other frame features include Anything Cage mounts on the fork, two more triple mounts on the frame, and fender and low rider rack mounts. It’s non-suspension corrected, “a true dirt drop miracle designed to take on a grocery run, or a run down the Continental Divide.”

  Note that with a full 29+ setup, some toe overlap can be experienced on the S/M frames. As such, 27.5+ wheels are a great option for this bike. Also, with a 75mm bottom bracket drop, anything smaller than 27.5 x 2.4″ tires might make the bottom bracket a little low for those venturing into rugged and uneven terrain.

  Highlights

  • Undeniably unique aesthetic thanks to raw brass fillets
  • Matching bi-plane fork with three-pack mounts
  • Telescoping chainstays to tweak geometry and drivetrain options
  • Complete builds available upon request

  Drawbacks

  • Braze-ons only suitable for light-duty racks
  • Just three size options

  • Price: $1325 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1325
  

  MONē La Roca

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 110mm / 12 x 148mm
  • BB drop : 34mm

  The La Roca is Cjell Mone’s signature plus hardtail featuring a hand-brazed, custom-butted frame hardened 4130 chromoly tubeset and a unique, tuneable rear-end that allows a wide range of chainstay lengths depending on your wheel choice. 27.5 x 2.5″ minions will allow you to tuck into a super-short 405mm cheinstay length if you want to slam it. Or you can bump that number to a 430mm and run full 3.0″ 29+ tires.

  As shown here, La Roca is offered with a 120mm suspension-corrected biplane fork with 2x Anything cage mounts (four total on the frame). The Mone La Roca also has fender mounts and low rider rack mounts.

  Highlights

  • Undeniably unique aesthetic thanks to raw brass fillets
  • External bottle bosses for extra-long dropper seatposts
  • Complete builds available upon request
  • Option for 140mm suspension-corrected version of their bi-plane fork

  Drawbacks

  • Braze-ons only suitable for light-duty racks
  • Not compatible with several mechanical disc brakes
  • On the pricier side for a Taiwan-made hardtail

  • Price: $1325 (Frameset (with fork))
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2199
  

  Myth Cycles Talos

  • Frame: Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropout: 148 x 12mm
  • BB Drop: 61mm

  From Myth Cycles: “The Myth Cycles Talos frame is our big 29er, short chainstay, aggressive trail slaying machine. The bent seat tube and signature chainstay yoke allow you to run up to a 29 x 3.0 tire and up to a 32t chainring with a 1×12 drivetrain. With huge rollover and aggressive, modern geometry, Talos is a great option for singletrack bikepacking trips like the Colorado Trail. A high bottom bracket makes it a very versatile frame as well, working great with anything from a 2.6 to 3.0 tire. It’s available as a frame only or as a complete bike. And like all our bikes, it’s made right here in Durango, CO.”

  Highlights

  • Handmade in Colorado
  • Options for customizations
  • Pick your frame color…and more
  • Proper backcountry singletrack geometry
  • “Loopstay” chainstay design is unique

  Drawbacks

  • Expensive due to being US-made
  • Only two size options for semi-custom orders

  • Price: $2199 (Frame Only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Colorado, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2400
  

  Oddity Cycles Ghostship

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm threaded

  A NAHBS classic, the Oddity Ghostship is a 29+ ultra-tucked bike handbill by Fort Collins, Colorado-based Sean Burns, aka Oddity Cycles. Sean’s an architect turned bike builder, so aesthetics and structure are crystal clear in his bike designs. And judging from the geometry of his bikes, neither is flat out fun. The Oddity Ghostship is a beautiful work of art in the 29+ category.

  Highlights

  • Incredibly unique curves and design
  • Threaded BB and external cable routing
  • Upgrades available, including sliding dropouts, bottle mounts, and rack mounts

  Drawbacks

  • Slow delivery times because of made-to-order format

  • Price: $2400 (Frameset (starting))
  • Place of Manufacture: Colorado, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1099
  

  Panorama Boreal

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max tire Size: 29 x 2.8"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 110mm / 12 x 148mm

  Like the Pinion-equipped version, the Panorama Boreal is an all-terrain touring bike designed around a Reynolds 525 steel frame with a matching rigid fork and a low-maintenance build kit. It ticks a lot of boxes as a do-everything bikepacking rig. Building on the Boreal Pinion, the new Panorama Boreal shares most of the same specs but is based around a traditional drivetrain with a Shimano SLX 1×12 or a Shimano Cues 6000/8000 2×11 drivetrain. Otherwise, it offers everything we liked about the Pinion model, including an upright riding position, loads of mounting points, a Reynolds 525 steel frame, and a matching 4130 Chromoly steel fork. Complete builds come with Velo Orange Crazy Bars for multiple hand positions, a low-maintenance build kit, and there are three size options to choose from. Find our press release here.

  Highlights

  • Reynolds 525 steel frame and fork
  • Lots of mounting points
  • Competitively priced
  • All-terrain, upright geo
  • Rohloff builds available

  Drawbacks

  • Only three size options and no XL
  • Crazy Bars are a little crazy

  • Price: $1099 (frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $4899
  

  Panorama Boreal Pinion

  • Frame: Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.8"
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 X 110MM / 12 X 148MM
  • BB Drop: 65mm

  The Panorama Boreal Pinion is an all-terrain touring bike designed around a Pinion internal gearbox, Reynolds 525 steel frame with a matching rigid fork, and a low-maintenance build kit. It has clearance for 29 x 2.8″ tires, but according to Panorama, it has been designed with two personalities in mind: 29 x 2.0″ for a mix of road/off-road or 27.5 x 2.6″ for off-road riding. The frame has all the mounts you could need, including top tube bosses, multiple bottle mounts, downtube mounts, rack/fender mounts, and three-pack mounts on the fork. Panorama opted for the 600% gear range of the C1.12 Pinion gearbox and a Gates Carbon belt drive for all complete builds, but other models are available upon request.

  The frame has internal dropper post routing, external brake and shifter cables, sliding rear dropouts, boost hub spacing, and a 27.2mm diameter seat post. The fork is made from 4130 Chromoly steel, uses post-mount brakes, and has dynamo cable routing. At first glance, its geometry looks spot on for its intended purpose: a long wheelbase, slack-ish headtube angle, a generous 62mm fork offset, and a 65mm bottom bracket drop. It is offered as a complete build or as a frameset.

  Highlights

  • Reynolds 525 steel frame and fork
  • Lots of mounting points
  • Competitively priced
  • Pinion and non-Pinion frames/complete builds

  Drawbacks

  • All-terrain geometry could be limiting and/or overkill for some

  • Weight: 15.42 kg (34 lbs)
  • Price: $4899 (Complete)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2699
  

  Panorama Torngat Ti

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium/Carbon
  • Tire Clearance: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: Pressfit 107
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 150mm / 12 x 177mm

  The Panorama Torngat Ti is their first titanium fat bike and the first model designed specifically to play nicely with two crank widths (Q-factor) for summer and winter use. According to Panorama Cycles, the Torngat Ti offers three types of use: as a fat bike with a standard fat bike crank (205mm Q-factor) and 27.5 x 4.5″ tires, as a fat bike with 27.5 x 4″ tires and a more ergonomic 185mm Q-factor, and as a hardtail mountain bike with 27.5 x 4″ or 29 x 3″ tires and a 185mm Q-factor crankset. Panorama will be selling the Torngat Ti with a Race Face Cinch crankset, including the two spindle lengths, so the customer can swap the Q-factor (distance between the crank arms) based on their tire choice and personal preference.

  The Torngat Ti features sliding dropouts, a split seat stay for belt drive, internal dropper post routing, rear rack mounts, top tube mounts, downtube mounts, a press-fit 107 bottom bracket, and includes a carbon fork with three-pack mounts. Read our full press release here.

  • Price: $2699 (frame + fork)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1650
  

  Roca Roja Titanium Breezy 29+

  • Frame: Titanium
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts: 12 x 142mm sliding

  The Titanium BREEZY 29+ was one of the first few titanium 29+ bikes out there. The frame features a 44mm headtube (for use with tapered steerer tube forks), 142 x 12mm Sliding Thru-Axle Inserts with included Shimano thru-axle, and Ti welded bottle bosses.

  Highlights

  • One of the first 29+ bikes
  • Sliding dropouts
  • Made in USA

  Drawbacks

  • Expensive

  • Price: $1650 (Frame only)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £900
  

  Singular Gryphon

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 100x12mm / 142×12mm
  • BB Drop: 70mm

  Originally released back in 2009, UK-based Singular Cycles describes its Gryphon as the “mythical mash-up of lion and eagle representing the ostensible clash between drop bars and big knobbly tyres.” It combines wide flared drop bars with big tires and a custom-drawn 4130 Chromoly steel frame for a versatile platform that’s designed to go pretty much anywhere. It features thru-axles, flat mount brakes, and clearance for 29 x 3.0″ tires. The frame is based around a 73mm BSA threaded bottom bracket shell with eccentric insert, external cable routing, triple pack mounts under the downtube, and all the other mounts we like to see. The fork has bottle cage mounts and internal dynamo routing.

  Highlights

  • Timeless look with upright geometry
  • A true drop bar mountain bike
  • Rack and cargo/bottle mounts all over
  • 73mm BSA threaded bottom bracket shell with eccentric insert

  Drawbacks

  • Slightly more expensive than other Taiwan-made steel frames
  • Just three size options

  • Price: £900 (Frame/Fork)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1170
  

  Singular Swift

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 110mm / 12 x 148mm
  • BB Drop: 75mm

  The Swift was first launched back in 2006, when UK-based Singular Cycles was getting started and 29″ mountain bikes were just becoming mainstream. The Singular Cycles Swift is now in its fifth iteration, which they describe as a “suspension capable do-it-all off-road machine.”

  The Swift MK5 has been updated with a tapered headtube for suspension fork compatibility, thru-axles front and rear, and internal dropper post cable routing, all while retaining the ride quality and handling it’s known for. The Swift is built up around Taiwan-made custom drawn triple butted 4130 Chromoly steel tubing, has a 73mm BSA threaded bottom bracket, boost hub spacing, clearance for 29 x 3.0″ tires, and all sizes get bottle mounts on the seat tube, down tube, and under the down tube.

  The matching Swift fork has a 483mm axle-to-crown (100mm suspension corrected), triple pack mounts, rack and fender mounts, and internal dynamo routing. The frame has dropper post routing, bolt-on cable guides on underside of down tube, and it uses post-mount brakes front and back. It comes in three sizes and one color option.

  Highlights

  • Matching rigid fork with cargo mounts or short travel suspension fork
  • Rear rack mounts
  • Full external cable routing
  • 73mm BSA threaded bottom bracket shell with eccentric insert
  • Hole for internal dynamo cable in right fork leg

  Drawbacks

  • Slightly more expensive than other Taiwan-made frames
  • Just three size options

  • Price: $1170 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $6000
  

  Solace Cycles OM-2P

  • Frame: Titanium
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.8"
  • Bottom Bracket: Pinion
  • BB Drop: 60mm

  Designed around a Pinion gearbox, the Solace OM-2P is built for trouble-free exploration. As Solace explains, “This drive system answers the call for a single speed chainline and a maintenance-free drivetrain suited to muddy and winter conditions, while adding nearly 200% range of a traditional 1x drivetrain.” It’s compatible with both 27.5 x 3.0″ and 29 x 2.8″ tires, and built up around a 3A/2.5V titanium frame. The frame features numerous braze-ons for cages, cargo, and bags, including three-pack cargo cage mounts on both seat stays. The geometry of the OM-2P is close to that of the more trail-oriented OM-1 but is slightly more upright for long-distance tours and cruising trails.

  Highlights

  • Three-pack mounts on the seat stays
  • Option for frame couplers for travelling
  • Work with a small US-based company

  Drawbacks

  • Unknown availability

  • Price: $6000
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2186
  

  Stanton Sherpa Ti +

  • Frame: Titanium
  • Tire Clearance: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts: 12 x 148mm

  Here’s how Stanton describes the Sherpa Ti+: “You know those big plans you’ve always had? Time they stopped being just plans. We all have our own way of getting away from it all, from a spontaneous micro-adventure on the doorstep to a multi-day epic on the edge of the world. However you choose to escape you’ll find The Sherpa Ti + is the perfect companion.”

  It features a CNC machined yoke, rack mounts, downtube bottle mounts, clearance for 29 x 3.0″ tires, geometry designed for long days in the saddle, internal dropper post routing, and can handle a rigid fork or 100-130mm travel suspension forks.

  • Price: $2186 (frame only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £1995
  

  Stayer Groadinger OMG

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropout: 142, 148, QR

  The new Stayer Groadinger OMG is a built-to-order custom mountain bike based around a Chromoly Steel frame, rigid fork, and massive 3.0″ tire clearance. Here’s how Stayer describes the OMG: “The idea is that anything you can think to do with 3″ tyre clearance and a no-suss frame can be done with the Groadinger OMG. If you want a big rig for long distance off road touring then we can do that with the OMG. If you want a hardtail with a short wheel base for chopping down the local trail then we can do that with the OMG. So it’s your mountain bike, what are you gonna do? It comes in mullet or 26’er or dropbar with fenders or trail rider, or long distance monster, steel fork feels or carbon for the win, whippy and bouncy, sturdy and looooong with racks, bags and buckets and places to keep your boat or board and so on, and so on.”

  Highlights

  • Made to order with lots of custom options
  • Handmade in the UK

  Drawbacks

  • Availability is uncertain

  • Price: £1995 (Frame Only)
  • Place of Manufacture: UK
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £840
  

  Stooge Speedbomb

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: Eccentric
  • Dropouts (F/R): 110x15mm / 148x12mm
  • BB Drop: 75mm

  The Stooge Dirtbomb is part klunker, part modern rigid trail bike. It’s offered in one size, since klunkers are only offered in one size, has clearance for 29+ tires, and uses a eccentric bottom bracket so you can run 27.5+ as well. As Stooge puts, “This slice of steel will take you on a joyride so fantabulously exciting you’ll take every other bike you own and throw them heartily in the skip of eternity…”

  Highlights

  • Fantastic timeless aesthetic with klunker-style and matching bi-plane fork
  • Massive tire clearance
  • Threaded BB with eccentric insert

  Drawbacks

  • One size
  • No rack mounts
  • Limited availability

  • Price: £840 (Frame / Fork)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $3800
  

  Tanglefoot Bull Thistle

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 83mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 150x15mm / 177x12mm
  • BB Drop: 70mm

  The Tanglefoot Bull Thistle is a classic US-made road-fat bike designed for mud season and snowmobile roads. It has clearance for 26 x 4″ tires, a lowish Q-factor, and includes a quill stem and lugged, custom fork crown. The Bull Thistle is made by Alex Meade Bikeworks in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts. The Bull Thistle comes in five sizes; 51, 53.5, 57, 61, and 64. Prices start at $3,800 USD for a frame and fork, which includes a two-color paint job with lug lining. The frames are made to order with a six- to nine-week lead time.

  Highlights

  • Classic styling and details
  • Several tire/wheel size options to pick from
  • US-made

  Drawbacks

  • Expensive
  • Limited availability
  • Wide hubs and Q-factor

  • Price: $3800 (Frame/Fork)
  • Place of Manufacture: USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1975
  

  Tin Goat Hoopla

  • Frame: Titanium
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropout: 148 x 12mm
  • BB Drop: 75mm

  The Tin Goat Hoopla is a titanium hardtail that’s “fun, smooth, and efficient” for riding all day long. From Tin Goat: “In contrast with most other 29er and 29+ bikes that are marketed for bikepacking, the Hoopla is NOT an aggressive trail frame with a couple of added bolt-ons stuck to it. It is optimized as a bikepacking frameset first, but one that is happy with a squishy front-end, up to 120mm.​” It can be setup rigid or with a suspension fork, can handle 1x and 2x drivetrains, it’s Rohloff and singlespeed ready, and has loads of mounting points.

  Highlights

  • Purpose built with bikepacking in mind
  • Lots of mounting points
  • Rohloff-ready, 1x and 2x drivetrains
  • Matching Ti fork available

  Drawbacks

  • Limited availability

  • Price: $1975 (Frame Only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1999
  

  Vassago Optimus Ti

  • Frame: Titanium
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropout: 148 x 12mm
  • BB Drop: 60mm

  The Optimus Ti is Vassago’s most popular bikepacking frame. It has adjustable dropouts for geared and singlespeed drivetrains, a threaded bottom bracket, internal dropper post routing, clearance for 29×3″ tires, and is optimized for 120mm suspension forks. Vassago describes it as “the perfect all-rounder”, great for trail riding, bikepacking, and everything else.

  Make sure to check out the Vassago Ludicrous Ti, Mooseknuckle, Verhauen, and Radimus—all of which have clearance for at least 29 x 2.8″ tires.

  Highlights

  • Promising do-it-all geo
  • External seat tube bosses allow for longer dropper post
  • Sliding dropouts

  Drawbacks

  • No rack mounts
  • UDH dropout costs extra

  • Price: $1999 (Frame Only)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1375
  

  Ventana Wolfram

  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: PressFit 30
  • Dropouts: 12 x 148mm

  The Ventana Wolfram is a made in the USA frame that can be built around a standard PF30 bottom bracket or a Pinion Gearbox. The frame is designed around a 120mm fork and features a tapered headset (34mm/44mm), 30.9mm seat post diameter, and unique three bolt sliding adjustable 12 x 148mm dropouts with replaceable derailleur hanger. It’s also compatible with a Gates belt drive system.

  Highlights

  • Options for Pinion gearbox, Rohloff, or standard drivetrains
  • Six stock sizes in 29+ mode
  • Three levels of custom geo, from $225 to $850
  • Handmade in USA

  Drawbacks

  • Rack mounts aren’t standard
  • Press-fit bottom bracket
  • Wait times due to made-to-order format

  • Price: $1375 (Frame only)
  • Place of Manufacture: California, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2000CAD
  

  XX – Chromag Arcturian (RIP)

  • Frame: Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: Pressfit 92mm
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 X 110MM / 12 X 148MM
  • BB Drop: 73mm

  The Arcturian is Chromag’s most progressive hardtail, complete with rowdy angles for technical, steep riding and clearance for 29×3.0″ tires. They recommend a 140-160mm fork, the frame has external cable routing, you won’t find additional cargo mounts, and it’s handmade in Canada by Mike Truelove.

  • Price: $2000CAD (Frame Only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Canada
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $3495
  

  XX – Chumba URSA 29plus Backcountry (RIP)

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel (or carbon)
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 110mm / 12 x 148mm (sliding)
  • BB drop: 56mm

  The Chumba URSA 29plus Backcountry was one of the first production, bikepacking-specific 29+ rigs on the market. Featuring a made-in-the-USA steel frame, sliding dropouts, and plenty of mounts, its a great option to consider when eying bikes such as the Krampus, ECR, and the Tumbleweed Prospector. Check out this report on it.

  • Price: $3495 (BC)
  • Place of Manufacture: Texas, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1900
  

  XX – Framed Alaskan Carbon 29+ Bike (RIP)

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Lauf Carbonara
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"*
  • Bottom Bracket: ???
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 150mm / 12 x 197mm

  There’s not much info on the Framed Alaskan Carbon 29+ bike. We do know it’s based on their fatbike frame and built around a 197 x 12mm dropouts, so it will likely fit fatbike tires just fine. Same goes for the Lauf Carbonara fork.

  • Price: $1900
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $5099
  

  XX – Salsa Deadwood SUS (RIP)

  • Frame: Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: PressFit 41 x 92
  • Dropouts (F/R): BOOST 110/148

  See Our Full Review

  The Deadwood SUS is a special breed of bike that maintains the feel of the 29+ platform yet blends modern materials and components with the ideal amount of travel to add to the experience… without taking away from it. To anyone who already has a love-affair with 29+ and is flirting with breaking out of a committed relationship with rigid steel—and even to those who don’t—we recommend demoing one.

  • Price: $5099 (GX Eagle Build)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $3199
  

  XX – Salsa Woodsmoke (RIP)

  • Frame: Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Botton Bracket: 41 x 92 PressFit
  • Dropouts: BOOST 110/148mm

  See Our Full Review

  the salsa Woodsmoke is a playful bike with a few worthy adventure perks thrown in the mix. Regarding the 29+ version in particular, Salsa did a great job of reinventing this platform. Despite a few nitpicks that pertain to more of a big trip scenario—odd climbing characteristics, etc—the Woodsmoke is a blast to ride. Be it for trail riding, weekend singletrack bike packs, or even a race such as the Trans North Georgia, it’s certainly an interesting contender in the carbon hardtail segment.

  • Price: $3199 (SLX 1x11)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £1900
  

  XX – Smokestone Mr Harry (RIP)

  • Frame: Titanium
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.6"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm threaded
  • DROPOUT: 12 x 148mm
  • BB Drop: 75mm

  The Smokestone Mr Harry is a titanium hardtail mountain bike with external cable routing, dropper post routing, adjustable dropouts, and clearance for 29×2.8″ tires. Smokestone also offers customization on their frames, so you can run a fixed rear axle, internal routing, and more mounting points if you want them. It’s based around a 120mm travel fork and they also offer several different rigid carbon fork options.

  • Price: £1900 (Frame Only)
  contract Close
• £599
  

  XX – Stooge Speedball (RIP)

  • Frame/fork: Steel/steel
  • Tire Clearance: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: Eccentric
  • Dropouts (F/R): 142 × 12 / 100 × 15mm

  The Speedball is a 29+ bike featuring a Klunkpacker bi-plane fork with triple cage mounts. The speedball is offered in one size only: 23.5″ ETT and 18″ seat tube for anyone between 5’8′ and 6’1″. It has clearance for 3″ rubber on a 45mm rim in the rear and 3.25″ on the front, a 27.2 post, 142 × 12 and 100 × 15 dropouts, and an included eccentric bottom bracket.

  Here’s some geo specs: ETT – 597mm, Seat tube – 457mm, head angle – 69, seat angle- 72, BB drop – 75mm, chainstays – 450mm, fork axle to crown – 455mm, head tube – 140mm, fork offset – 55mm truss, 57mm biplane.

  • Price: £599 (Frame/Bi-plane fork)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1900
  

  XX – Surly ECR (RIP)

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts: 100mm QR / 12 x 142/148mm
  • BB drop: 80mm

  See Our Full Review

  The magic of 29+ is that it provides a large rolling diameter as well as significant floatation and suspension qualities due to a wider footprint. And, all of this is at its disposal without the same penalties that 4″ fatbike tires possess. In essence, 29+ provides added cushion and confidence while not being as sluggish at a fatbike. The Surly ECR was one of the first few 29+ bikes, and the first to repurpose 29+ specifically for bikepacking. Many have followed in its wide footsteps, but it remains the archetype of its own niche.

  • Price: $1900 (Complete)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $3850
  

  XX – Trek Full Stache 29+ (RIP)

  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0'
  • Bottom Bracket: PF92
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 100mm / 12 x 148mm

  Full Stache is a first of its kind trail bike. It features 130mm of suspension, wide 29 x 3.0″ plus tires and some clever engineering to tucked those big tires into a trail bike that’s reportedly “nimble, pedalfriendly, and amazingly balanced.”

  • Price: $3850 (8)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1889
  

  XX – Trek Stache (RIP)

  • Frame: Carbon or Aluminum
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: PF92
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 100mm / 12 x 148mm

  The Stache was one of the first 29+ bikes to come to market. Reportedly loads of fun, the Stache has super-short chain stays afforded by its elevated chain-stay design. The Trek Stache is available in carbon or aluminum in a number of complete builds as well as the frameset only.

  • Price: $1889 (Starting)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• €2600
  

  XX – Wilier Jaroon Plus 29+ (RIP)

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm ?
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  The Jaroon Plus is a steel frame welded with a special technique that hides all welding material inside, making the frame appear clean, and the seams flawless. The frame features a tapered head tube, 27.2mm diameter seat-post, mount for mudguards and a rear rack, and thru-axles. The build comes with a Rival/Apex 1×11 drivetrain and 16° flared handlebar.

  • Price: €2600 (Rival 1x11)
  • Place of Manufacture: China
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close

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WHAT’D WE MISS?

We searched high and low to gather a comprehensive list of 29+ bikes. However, we surely missed a few. If you know of a 29+ bike that’s currently available to order or purchase, please let us know in the comments below.