Light, potent and mixed: Ibis presents the HD6 enduro bullet
In recent years, the Ripmo has been Ibis' enduro bike par excellence. Now the Californians are shifting the enduro focus back to the popular HD, which is now in its sixth generation. Ibis' Enduro World Cup team had an important say in its development, which is reflected in the latest Ibis offspring.
The HD6 comes with 180 millimetres of suspension travel and a 29-inch wheel at the front. At the rear, 165 millimeters of suspension travel calm the 27.5-inch rear wheel. This combination promises good control in rough terrain, but should also offer agile handling on winding sections. It therefore combines the best of both wheel sizes.
New rear triangle, better performance even uphill
With the new suspension layout, Ibis aims to achieve a very sensitive response. Nevertheless, the rear suspension should be progressive enough and offer plenty of reserves for the big hits. Air shocks are sometimes used, but the rear triangle is also compatible with all steel shocks. Especially on long descents, these shine with a more consistent performance.
Despite the new rear suspension, the tried-and-tested DW-Link remains. It means that you don't need an over-damped shock to pedal well up the mountain. This means that downhill performance and drive efficiency do not get in each other's way.
Adieu Enduro tank
The HD6 is designed to climb with a lightness that contradicts its origins in enduro racing. This is said to be due to the rear triangle as well as the weight. Nowadays, where enduro racing bikes are no rarity at 17 kilograms, Ibis is trying to move the needle on the scales in the opposite direction again, also on the advice of the enduro team. The robust frame without shock weighs less than 2.7 kilograms. Complete bikes with enduro-compatible components should even be possible under 14.5 kilograms.
In terms of design, the HD6 moves away from its characteristic curves and features straighter, sharper lines. The frame also features impact and shuttle protectors on the down tube and chainstays, continuous internal cable routing and a mounting device for repair kits under the top tube. The rear triangle can accommodate tires up to 2.5 inches wide and the main frame can hold bottles up to 750 millilitres. Furthermore, sealed bearings reduce maintenance and Ibis offers a lifetime warranty on the frame.
Features and sizes
The HD6 is available in three color designs: the simple "Emerald Forest", the gaudy "Traffic Cone" and the lovely "Wizard Sleeve". These are available as frame kits or complete bikes, the latter in four versions: Sram GX, Shimano SLX, Shimano XT and Sram XX Transmission AXS.
The frame sizes of the HD6 range from 1 to 5, i.e. from S to XXL, with reach dimensions of 430, 454, 480, 508 and 541 millimetres. The head angle is the same for all sizes, at 64 degrees.
The first Ibis HD6 bikes are now available from specialist dealers.
Note: This content has been automatically translated from German. Please report any incorrect translations.