I always enjoy your reviews, but I especially liked the Post-it Notes stuck to the frame. That was a creative touch and more easily legible to me on my phone than other channels’ computer generated overlays for the same type of information. Just curious, how does the Smuggler compare to the Revel Rascal. I recently sold mine to move up to a Revel Rail29.
For me, that happy middle bike is the SC Hightower…I’ve got bikes on either side of it and I’m still amazed how well it blurs the line between big boy bike and XC/DC bikes
Thanks for mentioning how it pumps and carries speed on mellow. Never knew how much that mattered to me till I got my Canfield Tilt. Thing eats up trail like nothing, but it’s not able to gain much pumping.
Your point about compromising is interesting. I am 71 years old. When I was young compromising was seen as the thing that good, civilized people do in order to get the best results overall. I am not sure what changed compromising from a good thing to a bad thing but it makes no sense to me.
I got half your years, while compromise means different things to different people with different desires and wallet sizes (if you're struggling to make do, compromise means not wasting materials and opportunities and you're thankful to have something and to keep it working as opposed to not having it all, if you're rich everything short of perfect is a compromise when you can afford throwing it away complain about it and buy the next best promised thing), I think the general change in tone about "compromise" makes sense when you think about it this way. Earlier growing up, what I knew about was limited to what was around me, I couldn't lust about different brands of bikes from around the world because I didn't have the internet to show me what else is out there. If it wasn't at my local shop, if a friend didn't tell me about something they saw somewhere else, if I didn't see it in a movie, it didn't exist! For better or worse I had no way of knowing what was better or why or where it was. New technology, features, and fads didn't always make it to every town. Here it's only XC and road and I didn't even know about enduro and downhill racing till way later, I would have loved it as a kid! Took me getting to 34 before becoming obsessed with following it all. Back then we got what we could find and afford and our choices where severely limited, maybe we blew our savings on something considered a terrible value and quality when compared to other things we didn't have the liberty of trying, but we appreciated what we had and made it work. Now we can discover and order anything we want across the globe and now companies aren't just trying to market locally, now they're on stage to a world wide audience and they need every edge to compete against the other companies why I should pick them over what was once my local brands. Technology and materials and engineering keeps getting more expensive in the name of being 1% better than the competition. Everyone wants to win more and to sell more and the attitude becomes pervasive, trickling down and ingrained in our culture, just look at the tech bloat in every product segment that exists. No bike ad ever talks about it's compromises, every intro tells you it climbs like an XC bike and descends like a downhill. I often get to laugh at my own stupid dream list of bikes when we drive by one of the amish kids on their metal wheel bikes. When I was younger I'd just think about how terrible that must be, but now I think must be great to have a bike rather than not have one at all.
I know transition has said that the bike can be changed to 140 rear travel by just removing a spacer in the rear shock. I’d be very interested to know how this bike would ride by changing that rear travel and going with a 150 fork. I feel like it can be the absolute perfect all mountain bike with those changes
I did the same thing with my Scout - didn’t change the ride feel much at all. But the extra little bit of travel is a help when I exceed my riding skills in rockier terrain 😂
It could be cool to try. I really don’t think the extra 10mm rear will be too noticeable. A stiffer 150mm fork would probably make a bigger difference. At that point you’re pretty close to a sentinel and might just be better off on that.
@@bikersedge I’m luke warm about the Fox 34, and not sure the SID would be any better. I own a Sentinel, and it’s great, but a bit too slack for my riding. A Smuggler with a Fox 36 x 150 and the associated slackening to 34.5° HTA might be the definitive answer. Or maybe I should just get around to dropping an angle adjust on my Sentinel…hahaha 😉
This seems eerily similar to the review of the Element though there is a 10mm travel difference front and rear. Really appreciate the honest and unbiased reviews
No mention of the Specialized Stumpjumper? Correct me if I’m wrong, but the front travel, rear travel, and even head angle are all the same. In fact, when the Smuggler was released I thought this was Transition’s attempt to take a bite out of Specialized’s apple.
Stumpy not a true four bar. Stumpy will build up lighter and probably a bit snappier thanks to the flex stay. Smuggler will be better in the rough and a bit more climbing traction. Smuggler can run a coil and travel can be extended to 140.
Really like that style of filming,doing something else and talking--very engaging. Like a visual story in addition to the audio one. I have the original smuggler and trying to decide if its worth the upgrade. The old one does not hold speed well. I always know when I've made a mistake!!!
I still think a DW link bike is much better at being an all around bike to do it all, because they climb and descend so well, without compromising either of them.
Lots of DW bikes tend to climb well. That said Horst link is probably my favorite platform overall. It can be designed to have a good amount of anti-squat and great DH characteristics too.
I've owned a Ripley LS and Ripmo and I'm now on the new Smuggler. I think the 4 bar/Horst rear suspension has come a long way and does not compromise on the climbing/peadal platform. Overall I like the Smuggler very much as well as the new Rockshox stuff. The new Pike with Buttercups on this bike is next level.
I haven't ridden this one but have ridden the Spur. Honestly, the lack of sophistication on Transition bikes' suspension was evident for me when compared to the SC VPP on the Tallboy, the Pivot Trail 429/Ripley DW-Links in terms of traction, plushness, going up technical stuff, etc. so It would have to like completely wow me to consider it. But Transition seems to have filled that hole they had between the short-travel and all-mountain bikes and a well-rounded trail bike is always welcome.
That’s a tough one. I feel like the world needs more 4-bar bikes. They tend to be super consistent and predictable. Big fan personally. The Spur of course isn’t a four bar bike but the rest of transitions bikes are.
Great review again, thanks. Issue is too much choice, too many great bikes! So, geo on this is almost identical to the SB140. Which one do you prefer? And since I'm coming from a Bronson 3, how would this compare to the SB135? Or what about something completely different, keep the B2 for the big days and get the new Mach 4 SL instead (which TBH sounds perfect for most of my riding)?
This feels much lighter and sportier than an SB140. The 140 is more all mountain. It’s been too long since I’ve ridden a Bronson to compare to the 135.
I think the the Instinct, Occam and Trance feel bigger. They almost split the trail and the all mountain bikes. The Element does the same but between the XC and trail bikes. The Smuggler is smack dab in the middle of the trail category.
I did again... just saying the 5th gen tallboy has been around for 3 seasons with only very minor changes...and since you did ride it and compared it to the spur... I assumed you already have some insights 😂 but I'll try to be patient... thanks for all the reviews
Ha. All good. I’m going to wait and compare to the current TB. It’s been a while since I’ve ridden one and want it to be a fair comparison. The most recent Tallboy I've ridden is the 4.
How does the pedaling platform compare to the older SB130? I had the SB130 and I loved how well it responded under full gas efforts coming out of turns and punching up climbs.
@bikers edge how does the XL smuggler compare to other XLs in the transition lineup? Would you consider a Large Smuggler if you wanted a snappier more playful bike? The WB looks long on the XL for a trail bike. Thanks for another great review
I personally wouldn’t want a L. While the reach is longer the seat tube is steeper making the fed tube top tube similar. I’m pretty happy with a 1270ish wheelbase. Pretty good spot for mobility and stability.
Hey, late to the party… if you were to spend your money today; SC HT or the smuggler? If you could own only one bike at a time? Fast blue trails with lots of turns and a shuttle run in there every once in a while. Thx
@@bikersedge which one would you say is the better overall design and suspension feel? Thats the real question I guess. And low key, is SC coming out with a V4 I wonder🤔🤔🤔I hate buying a bike then the new version is out 5 min later. Haha. Newer isn’t always better tho.
@@ChaseAdams-f4h “better” is pretty loaded. Better for me isn’t necessarily better for you. It’s all about aligning your bike with Your priorities and riding style. The HT rides bigger and the smuggler is a bit more balanced. Both are great in the ride terrain and for the right rider.
@@ChaseAdams-f4h ha. It’s just a tough one to answer. For fast blues I’d take the smuggler. For what I like to ride I’d take the Hightower. Hopefully that helps.
Hey man, do you think this would be similar to the norco fluid? Looking a 130/140 bike to go along with my enduro bike. The smuggler gx build is $6099 cad, the norco fluid fs c2 is on sale for $4000. I want the smuggler but i just cant justify paying for it when i can get a similar build for $2000 cheaper. Would love to hear your opinion. The geometry looks pretty similar.
Lots of requests in the comments for the Tallboy comparison, but I’m surprised to see it classified as harder-charging than the Smuggler. The Smuggler’s stats on paper look more aggressive than the TB. Both are on my short list for a new bike next year, hoping to demo both to compare for myself. I’m in Seattle so the Smuggler makes a lot of sense (again on paper), but I get the sense SC has better warranty and is actually lower price plus carbon wheels (also with a good warranty). I know many would say you can’t go wrong with either, and that’s probably true, but it’s never that simple, is it?
I just got a Spur and unfortunately putting on the back wheel somehow it got chipped by the axle taking some carbon with it too. I was really careful as its a new bike and it being carbon. I have no idea how it broke so easy. I was wondering if you have seen this at the shop.
Riding in the Midwest and as an older rider, I’m looking for a bike that is stable and easy to pedal around blues and greens but can handle tight technical corners located on many trails in the area. I’m 6’3” so I’ve been thinking of an xl. Been also considering a Stumpjumper or Tallboy!
49yo - 6'3" - 215lbs: I've been riding an XL Ibis Ripley V4 for the past year and had considered the SB130, Pivot Trail 429, Transition Spur and SC Tallboy/Hightower before landing on the Ripley. These are all great bikes with the Yeti and Santa Cruz getting the node for descending, Spur for weight (but more so for lighter riders), but the Ripley and 429 for overall performance (up and down). The difference maker for me was the DW-Link Suspension Platform (used by both Ibis and Pivot). 95% of my riding is in the lower foothills in/around Boise, ID (solid XC/Trail terrain) and I needed something that could keep the climbs efficient, but still give me enough travel to take on more technical descents and overall chunk. The DW-Link gives me the ability to climb efficiently and more confidently in tech, with zero effects of "pedal bob." The Ripley is hands down the most capable bike I've ever owned in nearly 35 years of MTB'ing . . . this is evidenced in the numbers from May 2022 to April 2023 . . more rides then every, more miles than ever, more PR's than ever, more FUN that ever.
@@samblaine1 Thanks for the great insight. I ride many tight, punchy ups and downs with smaller roots and rock gardens, particularly at Kettle Moraine and Palos Hills. Do you feel the Ripley would excel on that type of trail? We do not have many long climbs and descents in the Midwest.
@@randygrueb7058 I don't have a lot of time in the saddle riding that type of terrain, but I cannot imaging the DW-Link not excelling in that environment. The one route I do ride, inside Ponderosa State Park in McCall, ID, which does have those short punchy climbs with a lot of roots, some rocks and loose soil, the Ripley was super efficient, staying planted when rolling over abrupt edges, roots and light chunk without any of those harsh hits bouncing me out of the saddle. As long as you don't need more travel to smash the downhill (in which case I'd recommend the Ibis Ripmo), the Ripley is going to be a quiver killer.
Oh that’s a good one. Hadn’t crossed my mind until now though. The Smuggler is faster uphill for sure. Probably rides a little lighter duty on the descents too. The Instinct is similar in terms of geo but built up a bit burlier.
@@bikersedge Thanks! How about Smuggler vs Element? Having a hard time deciding what my next trail bike is going to be and unfortunately demo’s are not an option where I live. Awesome reviews!
Thats a good question. It's been a while since I've ridden a Ripley. I want to say the smuggler is just a smidge higher on the descending capability scale. The Ripley is probably a bit closer to the Spur than the Smuggler.
Nimble - 510 reach more than the majority of downhill biggest frame sizes :) It's FAAAAAAAR from being nimble for sure. Maybe it is if you are very tall, but a bike that long can't possibly corner that great Buuut, if it's for XL frame - pretty damn good.
That is an XL frame. And yes it is nimble. The wheelbase is fairly moderate at 1277mm. The effective top tube feels very in line with other trail bikes due to the steep seat tube angle making the reach feel a bit shorter.
True. Reach is relation of the BB to the head tube. ETT can be made shorter by making the seat tube steeper. However most people associate “reach” with how long the front of the bike feels both while sitting and standing. At the end of the day, wheelbase is a better measure of how “nimble” a bike is. At 1277 in XL the Smuggler is fairly moderate.
So this is definition of trail bike. Transition really know how to make bikes for each category, and make them good. For anyone who want more descending capabilities on the Smuggler, I sugest just to put Fox 36 150mm upfront and call it good. Anyhow that is a great bike. Thanks for review, greetings from Serbia 😎🤙
Again, super cool vid… Question for the audience, don’t get me wrong I love this bike and I want to buy it, BUT $4K is not too much money for an alloy bike ?? I mean there are many good options there way cheaper, even $1K less
Thanks! Thats always a tough question to answer because what is worth it for me might not be worth it for you. It depends on what your priorities are. That said, I don't think there's any reason to not explore the $3,000 options if $4,000 seems too spendy for an alloy bike. there are tons of great value brands/bikes out there and most of them are pretty solid.
Hi Man, great video as always.. I am thinking about buying this bike, can you please remind me your height and what size Smuggler did you ride? Thanks.
![ละลาย (LALALYE) - DAOU PITTAYA ต้าห์อู๋ พิทยา [OFFICIAL MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/wo6r9TgausI/mqdefault.jpg)
Check out the full written review and the Smuggler report card on our website - bebikes.com/the-hub/transition-smuggler-review/
How tall are ya? I’m 6’2, ordered an XL, hoping I made a good choice
I’m 6’2” and have an XL
@@bikersedge thank you
Connor, love the fact you made Post-It notes & stuck them to the bike. Easily depicts most pertinent info. creatively.
Thanks for the feedback!
I always enjoy your reviews, but I especially liked the Post-it Notes stuck to the frame. That was a creative touch and more easily legible to me on my phone than other channels’ computer generated overlays for the same type of information.
Just curious, how does the Smuggler compare to the Revel Rascal. I recently sold mine to move up to a Revel Rail29.
Thanks for the feedback!
It’s been so long since I’ve ridden a Rascal I can’t really fairly compare it.
For me, that happy middle bike is the SC Hightower…I’ve got bikes on either side of it and I’m still amazed how well it blurs the line between big boy bike and XC/DC bikes
I’m a big fan of that one too. Rides quite a bit bigger than this though.
have you seen the price sheet of the transition smuggler!? might think the SC bikes a better option compared to the spec from transition@@DB-sd3cw
Transition has gotten a little spendy these days.
Thanks for mentioning how it pumps and carries speed on mellow. Never knew how much that mattered to me till I got my Canfield Tilt. Thing eats up trail like nothing, but it’s not able to gain much pumping.
The Smuggler is fast on mellow trails.
Your point about compromising is interesting. I am 71 years old. When I was young compromising was seen as the thing that good, civilized people do in order to get the best results overall. I am not sure what changed compromising from a good thing to a bad thing but it makes no sense to me.
The internet exists now so everyone is a professional arguer. Ha
I got half your years, while compromise means different things to different people with different desires and wallet sizes (if you're struggling to make do, compromise means not wasting materials and opportunities and you're thankful to have something and to keep it working as opposed to not having it all, if you're rich everything short of perfect is a compromise when you can afford throwing it away complain about it and buy the next best promised thing), I think the general change in tone about "compromise" makes sense when you think about it this way. Earlier growing up, what I knew about was limited to what was around me, I couldn't lust about different brands of bikes from around the world because I didn't have the internet to show me what else is out there. If it wasn't at my local shop, if a friend didn't tell me about something they saw somewhere else, if I didn't see it in a movie, it didn't exist! For better or worse I had no way of knowing what was better or why or where it was. New technology, features, and fads didn't always make it to every town. Here it's only XC and road and I didn't even know about enduro and downhill racing till way later, I would have loved it as a kid! Took me getting to 34 before becoming obsessed with following it all.
Back then we got what we could find and afford and our choices where severely limited, maybe we blew our savings on something considered a terrible value and quality when compared to other things we didn't have the liberty of trying, but we appreciated what we had and made it work. Now we can discover and order anything we want across the globe and now companies aren't just trying to market locally, now they're on stage to a world wide audience and they need every edge to compete against the other companies why I should pick them over what was once my local brands. Technology and materials and engineering keeps getting more expensive in the name of being 1% better than the competition. Everyone wants to win more and to sell more and the attitude becomes pervasive, trickling down and ingrained in our culture, just look at the tech bloat in every product segment that exists. No bike ad ever talks about it's compromises, every intro tells you it climbs like an XC bike and descends like a downhill.
I often get to laugh at my own stupid dream list of bikes when we drive by one of the amish kids on their metal wheel bikes. When I was younger I'd just think about how terrible that must be, but now I think must be great to have a bike rather than not have one at all.
I know transition has said that the bike can be changed to 140 rear travel by just removing a spacer in the rear shock. I’d be very interested to know how this bike would ride by changing that rear travel and going with a 150 fork. I feel like it can be the absolute perfect all mountain bike with those changes
My sentiments exactly.
I did the same thing with my Scout - didn’t change the ride feel much at all. But the extra little bit of travel is a help when I exceed my riding skills in rockier terrain 😂
It could be cool to try. I really don’t think the extra 10mm rear will be too noticeable. A stiffer 150mm fork would probably make a bigger difference. At that point you’re pretty close to a sentinel and might just be better off on that.
@@bikersedge I’m luke warm about the Fox 34, and not sure the SID would be any better. I own a Sentinel, and it’s great, but a bit too slack for my riding. A Smuggler with a Fox 36 x 150 and the associated slackening to 34.5° HTA might be the definitive answer. Or maybe I should just get around to dropping an angle adjust on my Sentinel…hahaha 😉
A 36 or Lyrik on the smuggler could be solid.
By far the best review i've seen of it yet
Hey thanks!
Thank you for the review! Been anticipating this one for a minute.
Same! Glad I finally got to spend some time on it.
Well done review! Been eager to hear quality feedback about this bike.
I've kinda stopped watching other reviewers and just waiting for Connor's next vid, enjoying what you do! Plus for the analog geo tags 😅!
Thanks for the kind words!
This seems eerily similar to the review of the Element though there is a 10mm travel difference front and rear. Really appreciate the honest and unbiased reviews
Yeah I think they’re semi similar. The element does feel quite a bit more XC than this though.
No mention of the Specialized Stumpjumper? Correct me if I’m wrong, but the front travel, rear travel, and even head angle are all the same. In fact, when the Smuggler was released I thought this was Transition’s attempt to take a bite out of Specialized’s apple.
We don’t carry specialized. I’m not very familiar with that bike.
It's a Stumpjumper copycat... compare on 99spokes.
Stumpy not a true four bar.
Stumpy will build up lighter and probably a bit snappier thanks to the flex stay.
Smuggler will be better in the rough and a bit more climbing traction.
Smuggler can run a coil and travel can be extended to 140.
@jane blogs enlighten me, what's the site?
Really like that style of filming,doing something else and talking--very engaging. Like a visual story in addition to the audio one. I have the original smuggler and trying to decide if its worth the upgrade. The old one does not hold speed well. I always know when I've made a mistake!!!
Hey thanks! The new Smuggler is a big upgrade over the old one. Quite a bit more balanced.
Awesome review. My friend just bought a smuggler and he's excited to ride it soon. Question, where are those flow trails at? They look awesome.
Hey thanks! This was filmed on a handful of trails in Corner Canyon and Bobs Basin.
@@bikersedge Nice. We live in southern Utah so someday we can hopefully hit those trails. Thanks!
I am truly in love with the smuggler, it is amazong looking and it is one of the greatest trail bikes to me
So good.
I still think a DW link bike is much better at being an all around bike to do it all, because they climb and descend so well, without compromising either of them.
I agree
Lots of DW bikes tend to climb well. That said Horst link is probably my favorite platform overall. It can be designed to have a good amount of anti-squat and great DH characteristics too.
I've owned a Ripley LS and Ripmo and I'm now on the new Smuggler. I think the 4 bar/Horst rear suspension has come a long way and does not compromise on the climbing/peadal platform. Overall I like the Smuggler very much as well as the new Rockshox stuff. The new Pike with Buttercups on this bike is next level.
@@robertkeith9620 I just switched my fork from an older 2020 pike to a new Helm mk2, much more plush off the top, bottom out is endless
Would love to know the trail name at the 7:00 minute mark. Thanks for all the reviews!
Dropout
I haven't ridden this one but have ridden the Spur. Honestly, the lack of sophistication on Transition bikes' suspension was evident for me when compared to the SC VPP on the Tallboy, the Pivot Trail 429/Ripley DW-Links in terms of traction, plushness, going up technical stuff, etc. so It would have to like completely wow me to consider it. But Transition seems to have filled that hole they had between the short-travel and all-mountain bikes and a well-rounded trail bike is always welcome.
That’s a tough one. I feel like the world needs more 4-bar bikes. They tend to be super consistent and predictable. Big fan personally. The Spur of course isn’t a four bar bike but the rest of transitions bikes are.
Great review again, thanks. Issue is too much choice, too many great bikes! So, geo on this is almost identical to the SB140. Which one do you prefer? And since I'm coming from a Bronson 3, how would this compare to the SB135? Or what about something completely different, keep the B2 for the big days and get the new Mach 4 SL instead (which TBH sounds perfect for most of my riding)?
This feels much lighter and sportier than an SB140. The 140 is more all mountain.
It’s been too long since I’ve ridden a Bronson to compare to the 135.
Would've been nice to hear how it compares to the Occam, Trance X, Instinct, or perhaps Element.
I think the the Instinct, Occam and Trance feel bigger. They almost split the trail and the all mountain bikes. The Element does the same but between the XC and trail bikes. The Smuggler is smack dab in the middle of the trail category.
Thoughts on a 130/140 smuggler vs 140/150 smuggler?
Your review could be about the tallboy 5. I’ve been riding it with a 140 and it’s perfect for all the situations you describe.
Nice. I’m stoked to get some time on that one soon.
Would be interesting to hear your thoughts about the smuggler vs. the tallboy... you had a comparison of the spur vs. tallboy a while back...
Watch the comparisons section
I did again... just saying the 5th gen tallboy has been around for 3 seasons with only very minor changes...and since you did ride it and compared it to the spur... I assumed you already have some insights 😂 but I'll try to be patient... thanks for all the reviews
Ha. All good. I’m going to wait and compare to the current TB. It’s been a while since I’ve ridden one and want it to be a fair comparison. The most recent Tallboy I've ridden is the 4.
About to pull the trigger on a ripley, then I saw this review. How do you think they compare? East coast rider here, thanks!
I’d put the Ripley closer to the Spur than the Smuggler. A little more XC.
How does the pedaling platform compare to the older SB130? I had the SB130 and I loved how well it responded under full gas efforts coming out of turns and punching up climbs.
It’s been a while since I’ve ridden a 130. If my memory is correct this feels lighter and snappier on the pedals.
@@bikersedge Blister reviewed the bike and said his knees would rub the rocker link... did you experience this?
No. Sounds like the blister dude has some chunky knees. Ha.
Is BE going to have the smuggler available to Demo? 🤞🏻
As of right now we don’t. Might change in the future.
They have a demo now!
@bikers edge how does the XL smuggler compare to other XLs in the transition lineup? Would you consider a Large Smuggler if you wanted a snappier more playful bike? The WB looks long on the XL for a trail bike. Thanks for another great review
I personally wouldn’t want a L. While the reach is longer the seat tube is steeper making the fed tube top tube similar. I’m pretty happy with a 1270ish wheelbase. Pretty good spot for mobility and stability.
Last question. What length stem are you running?
40mm
Thoughts on how it compares to the norco optic?
It’s been so long since I’ve ridden the optic I couldn’t really fairly compare them.
This bike sounds similar to my YT Izzo Blaze which also has 130/140. Good review!
Hey thanks!
I recently demoed a Trance X 29 and really thought it was a great do-it-all option. How does the Smuggler compare to that?
I think the Trance X rides a bit bigger than this. Similar but bigger. The smuggler feels faster on the climbs and more sporty on the descents.
Hey, late to the party… if you were to spend your money today; SC HT or the smuggler? If you could own only one bike at a time? Fast blue trails with lots of turns and a shuttle run in there every once in a while.
Thx
"Fast blue trails" sounds like a great fit for the Smuggler. The HT wants it a bit rougher.
@@bikersedge which one would you say is the better overall design and suspension feel? Thats the real question I guess.
And low key, is SC coming out with a V4 I wonder🤔🤔🤔I hate buying a bike then the new version is out 5 min later. Haha. Newer isn’t always better tho.
@@ChaseAdams-f4h “better” is pretty loaded. Better for me isn’t necessarily better for you. It’s all about aligning your bike with Your priorities and riding style. The HT rides bigger and the smuggler is a bit more balanced. Both are great in the ride terrain and for the right rider.
@@bikersedge such a politically correct answer! Haha. I appreciate the feedback and all the awesome vids you guys post. Thanks
@@ChaseAdams-f4h ha. It’s just a tough one to answer. For fast blues I’d take the smuggler. For what I like to ride I’d take the Hightower. Hopefully that helps.
Conner, what trail is that at @6:55?
@@ericrollins4607 dropout in bobs basin
Hey man, do you think this would be similar to the norco fluid? Looking a 130/140 bike to go along with my enduro bike.
The smuggler gx build is $6099 cad, the norco fluid fs c2 is on sale for $4000. I want the smuggler but i just cant justify paying for it when i can get a similar build for $2000 cheaper.
Would love to hear your opinion. The geometry looks pretty similar.
@@sgt.sender1 unfortunately I haven’t ridden the fluid so I can’t really say.
The 5010 has a 0.1 lb lighter frame than the Smuggler. Pretty sure all the builds for both bikes are right around 31 lbs.
I am looking for a bike near this category and am wondering how it compares to the stump jumper as that is a popular bike with similar travel and geo
We don’t carry specialized. Not too familiar with the stumpy.
Been waiting for this one!
Stoked I finally got to ride one.
@@bikersedge And now I want one. 😂
How does it compare to the Revel Rascal?
It’s been years since I’ve ridden that. Couldn’t really say.
What about against ripley AF ? That is the bike im riding (up to 140mm)
Similar although I’d put the Ripley in with the Spur instead.
What are some of the harder charging short travel trail bikes you mentioned?
Tallboy, SB135, 5010
Lots of requests in the comments for the Tallboy comparison, but I’m surprised to see it classified as harder-charging than the Smuggler. The Smuggler’s stats on paper look more aggressive than the TB. Both are on my short list for a new bike next year, hoping to demo both to compare for myself.
I’m in Seattle so the Smuggler makes a lot of sense (again on paper), but I get the sense SC has better warranty and is actually lower price plus carbon wheels (also with a good warranty). I know many would say you can’t go wrong with either, and that’s probably true, but it’s never that simple, is it?
@clarks888 it comes down to the suspension design for me. I haven’t ridden the TB5 but the TB4 had a deeper and plusher feeling design.
@@bikersedge yeah that’s what I would have guessed. It’s also an individual preference thing to a degree, which is why I wanna ride them both myself!
I like your new "Casey Neistat" style of filming!! Really cool!!
Thanks! So stoked to hear that. I’ve studied hours of Casey Neistat videos.
Hey what camera are you using?
GoPro hero 11 for the POV and a Sony a7s3 for everything else.
I just got a Spur and unfortunately putting on the back wheel somehow it got chipped by the axle taking some carbon with it too. I was really careful as its a new bike and it being carbon. I have no idea how it broke so easy. I was wondering if you have seen this at the shop.
Not something we have seen. Not being able to see the bike makes it difficult but I doubt it’s broken.
@@bikersedge Ok, thank you. Unfortunately, I can't post pics on here.
@@janeblogs324 Interesting, Thanks. Yeah, I don't see any stands in that area. I really hope Transition will warranty it.
@@TomCollins-c4h Make a "tiny URL" of the pic link, then post just the unique end of it to get around the comment blocking.
Transition wouldn't warranty it. I wouldn't take the risk and can't recommend the brand.
hey mate - what size did you ride here please
XL
Riding in the Midwest and as an older rider, I’m looking for a bike that is stable and easy to pedal around blues and greens but can handle tight technical corners located on many trails in the area. I’m 6’3” so I’ve been thinking of an xl. Been also considering a Stumpjumper or Tallboy!
I’d happily recommend the smuggler. The Ripley could be good as well. Even the element would be nice.
49yo - 6'3" - 215lbs: I've been riding an XL Ibis Ripley V4 for the past year and had considered the SB130, Pivot Trail 429, Transition Spur and SC Tallboy/Hightower before landing on the Ripley. These are all great bikes with the Yeti and Santa Cruz getting the node for descending, Spur for weight (but more so for lighter riders), but the Ripley and 429 for overall performance (up and down). The difference maker for me was the DW-Link Suspension Platform (used by both Ibis and Pivot). 95% of my riding is in the lower foothills in/around Boise, ID (solid XC/Trail terrain) and I needed something that could keep the climbs efficient, but still give me enough travel to take on more technical descents and overall chunk. The DW-Link gives me the ability to climb efficiently and more confidently in tech, with zero effects of "pedal bob." The Ripley is hands down the most capable bike I've ever owned in nearly 35 years of MTB'ing . . . this is evidenced in the numbers from May 2022 to April 2023 . . more rides then every, more miles than ever, more PR's than ever, more FUN that ever.
@@samblaine1 Thanks for the great insight. I ride many tight, punchy ups and downs with smaller roots and rock gardens, particularly at Kettle Moraine and Palos Hills. Do you feel the Ripley would excel on that type of trail? We do not have many long climbs and descents in the Midwest.
@@randygrueb7058 I don't have a lot of time in the saddle riding that type of terrain, but I cannot imaging the DW-Link not excelling in that environment. The one route I do ride, inside Ponderosa State Park in McCall, ID, which does have those short punchy climbs with a lot of roots, some rocks and loose soil, the Ripley was super efficient, staying planted when rolling over abrupt edges, roots and light chunk without any of those harsh hits bouncing me out of the saddle. As long as you don't need more travel to smash the downhill (in which case I'd recommend the Ibis Ripmo), the Ripley is going to be a quiver killer.
25 years removed from the Midwest myself, but have you considered a Spur? Fun and stable. You can put a 130 up front.
How does it compare to the tallboy?
Watch the comparison section
How does the Smuggler compare to the Instinct?
Oh that’s a good one. Hadn’t crossed my mind until now though. The Smuggler is faster uphill for sure. Probably rides a little lighter duty on the descents too. The Instinct is similar in terms of geo but built up a bit burlier.
@@bikersedge Thanks! How about Smuggler vs Element? Having a hard time deciding what my next trail bike is going to be and unfortunately demo’s are not an option where I live. Awesome reviews!
The element splits the trail and XC categories pretty well. The smuggler rides bigger and finds itself right in the middle of the trail category.
Ripley AF vs Smuggler??
Thats a good question. It's been a while since I've ridden a Ripley. I want to say the smuggler is just a smidge higher on the descending capability scale. The Ripley is probably a bit closer to the Spur than the Smuggler.
Nimble - 510 reach
more than the majority of downhill biggest frame sizes :) It's FAAAAAAAR from being nimble for sure. Maybe it is if you are very tall, but a bike that long can't possibly corner that great
Buuut, if it's for XL frame - pretty damn good.
That is an XL frame. And yes it is nimble. The wheelbase is fairly moderate at 1277mm. The effective top tube feels very in line with other trail bikes due to the steep seat tube angle making the reach feel a bit shorter.
@@bikersedge but the reach has nothing to do with the seat tube. ETT is measured that way but not the reach
True. Reach is relation of the BB to the head tube. ETT can be made shorter by making the seat tube steeper. However most people associate “reach” with how long the front of the bike feels both while sitting and standing. At the end of the day, wheelbase is a better measure of how “nimble” a bike is. At 1277 in XL the Smuggler is fairly moderate.
reminds me of the Evil feel ?
Not sure. Haven’t ridden an evil for years.
Connor
Kinda confused
You had a pike on that bike
I though all smugglers came with a fox34
This is a custom build. Not a stock option.
Thanks
Are you using a GoPro? The angle looks very wide
Yes. Hero 11.
Smuggler or Ripley?
Just depends on what you’re looking for. Ripley is more of a climber. Smuggler goes a bit harder on the DH.
@@bikersedge thank you and now I just threw the SB140 into the mix. looking for something that'll do it all. decisions!
SB140 is radically different than those two. Much more descent focused.
Do you have any insight on how it compares the the previous generation Smuggler?
I never got to ride that one unfortunately.
You’re definitely humble, you definitely do not “suck at bikes” 😂
Compared to Ben (guy on the Mega), I’m a toddler on a strider. Ha.
Not that interested in the bike. More interested in your thoughts on the bike. Love your vids, sir!
Why thank you very much. I appreciate the kind words!
your voice very good
So this is definition of trail bike. Transition really know how to make bikes for each category, and make them good.
For anyone who want more descending capabilities on the Smuggler, I sugest just to put Fox 36 150mm upfront and call it good.
Anyhow that is a great bike.
Thanks for review, greetings from Serbia 😎🤙
Pop out a spacer and make the rear a 140 while your at it?
You and Mtb yumyum should do reviews together
He’s too fast for me.
This vs the sentinel
I mean I kinda compare throughout the entire video.
@@bikersedge yeah, I noticed that I wrote that comment to early in the video..
Who’s the bike for? Trail bikes are for riders that only want or can have one bike. That said, I need to move to Utah. Those views man
I’d agree that’s who they’re good for. Lots of different flavors of trail bikes though.
Utah doesn’t suck at all.
I swear the Trail segment of the market is the most convoluted to navigate, you have basically XC all the way to AM/faux Enduro all within trail 😂
I don’t disagree. They can vary a ton.
Again, super cool vid…
Question for the audience, don’t get me wrong I love this bike and I want to buy it, BUT $4K is not too much money for an alloy bike ?? I mean there are many good options there way cheaper, even $1K less
Thanks!
Thats always a tough question to answer because what is worth it for me might not be worth it for you. It depends on what your priorities are. That said, I don't think there's any reason to not explore the $3,000 options if $4,000 seems too spendy for an alloy bike. there are tons of great value brands/bikes out there and most of them are pretty solid.
Hi Man, great video as always.. I am thinking about buying this bike, can you please remind me your height and what size Smuggler did you ride?
Thanks.
Hey thanks. I’m 6’2” and rode an XL