I had the Ripley vs Ripmo dilemma, too, when I was choosing a new bike back in February (coming off a 2016 Stumpjumper). Since I’ll soon be 55 years old, I ended up going with the Ripmo, for exactly the reason Mo stated - a little extra margin for error; since my body doesn’t recover from crashes as quickly as it used to. Haven’t regretted that decision at all (though I may still pick up a light set of wheels/tires, to swap in on big climbing days).
I have the Ripmo too and spent a fair amount to time on the Ripley v4. I would say what I like is that the Ripmo is the better climbing bike in its category and can be built up pretty light too. But the plus feeling suspension for downhill chunk is what I really enjoy with it when I ride in CO, NM and Utah. The Ripley is an all out rocket but can be overwhelmed and bouncy on super chunk because its only 120mm. I honestly feel that Ripmo is the closest thing to an all out one bike quiver. I remember when I had my Hightower I thought about getting a v4 Ripley then got the RIpmo, rode it and my SC Hightower and sold the Hightower. The Ripley has never entered my mind again, its not needed.
I have a Ripmo AF on the way. A Ripley AF would have made the decision harder, but I'd still probably pick the more forgiving Ripmo. I think under biking makes sense for the more skilled or those that want to crush the climbs. I ride alone and don't care if I take awhile to get to the top. A bike that has my back for those OH $*!# moments going down was a priority.
I'd like a Ripley, but there's no aluminum frame option. Carbon isn't in the budget for everyone. I bought a Ripmo AF. It was more than I wanted to spend but I felt it was the right choice due to budget and my weight, not neccessary due to my riding. This is my first full suspension, and it's getting cold here in Minnesota. I only got a few rides on the AF, but it handles my weight on drops!
Less travel, more fun. I've done a lot of the gnarly trails of SoCal on my XC hardtail and gravel bike. Definitely takes more focus, but it's a hell of a thrill ride. My Ripmo makes me lazy nowadays. I'm considering making a Ripley into an XC ripper
Actually just bought a Ripmo AF, haven't even gotten a chance to ride it yet due to the new bike day curse (snow) haha. The Ripley sounds like a great all arounder if you either don't ride park, or have a dedicated park bike. I always felt the Ripmo was the "one bike to do it all" solution for everything from mellow trails to double black bike park lines.
Thanks a lot for this detailed report on the qualities of the Ripley and also for the comparison to it‘s „bigger brother“! I was long looking for something like that. So you nailed my decision for the Ripley here, because i am exactly the type of rider like you - wanting to be esp. fast on the uphills! Plus the decisive points for me are: The bike is lighter than the Ripmo and better suited for all-day-long exploring rides through nature. I want a bike „just to ride“ everywhere - always looking for flowy trails, but having a bike that can cope with almost every obstacle you are facing - because you never know what you will encounter in unknown terrain!
Been kind of wondering why you switched to the Ripley, had to stop a video a couple times and double take that indeed you were riding a Ripley! Kudos to you for having fun and riding a bike that gives you more pleasure for your style of riding. I think for a seasoned/experienced rider under forking/suspension sometimes makes it fun or more of a challenge to ride trails, less forgiving but faster if you pick good lines. Boils more down to rider skill then anything.
I’ve ridden both, and you made a great summary, Mo. I’m back on the V3 Ripley, and weighing the V4 vs the Pivot Switchblade for my next trail bike. The Switchblade gives you some more confidence on stuff like Ahab while still climbing great. The Ripley is SO fun on so many trails, though. Might just keep the V3 and add the SB. Nice review!
I've had my Ripley for about 2 months and absolutely love it. I agree with Mo, I like getting up the climbs fast, and descents smooth. I also have a 2019 Specialized Stumpjumper 29er which I love and is pretty tricked out too. Both bikes have fox factory susp (Rip is 120/130 and Stump is 140/150). I find the Ripley, as one would expect, to be really playful. I actually was surprised, however, at how "big" of a bike it is when I first built it up. It's "bigger" than the Stump if you look at the geometries. That being said, the Stump has made me such a better rider because of the confidence and forgiveness it offers with the bigger suspension. I feel that my riding has improved greatly because of the Stumpjumper, and those skills will be easier to deploy on the shorter travel Rip moving forward. I think now that I have upped my game as a rider, the shorter travel bike is a better option for 90% of the riding I do. The other 10% (bike park, certain front range CO trails like Longhorn at White Rance, are better suited to the Stumpjumper or similar in the 140-150 rear travel range). I'm sure the Ripmo is a phenomenal bike and I'm sure I'll have one not too long in the future when it's time to sell the Stump. You always need at least 2 mountain bikes:) -Danny
Thank you. I have a SJ 27.5 at 140/150. Same year. I’ve been debating the Ripmo vs Ripley to get into the world of Ibis. Then again, my Stumpjumper is a converted 120/130 and I’ll always have a short travel bike. Just got to change the yoke, shock and fork back. Maybe I need a hardtail XC or shorter travel FS XC. Gosh, choices in the golden age of mountain biking.
Mo, great comparison on the two bikes. I've been riding Ibis bikes since the intro of the original mojo SL. I ride a full custom v1 Ripmo now and it's hands down the best trail bike I've ever owned. I truly feel these bikes are the best trail bikes on the planet.
Good review. I think you are spot on that this is the right bike for most riders, and where they ride. Seams like most people are over biked these days. The way you described how you like to ride makes sense for a Ripley. I think you are nuts if you think the Ripley is the best choice for Captain Ahab considering the options from Ibis. IMO a Ripmo is the way to go for the harder trails in Moab. I have owned a Ripley, it is a great bike, but currently I am on a Ripmo V2. I wish I had both.
Have you thought about throwing on a 140mm fork? Im thinking it would slacken the head .5 and add more downhill confidence. I'll be building one next year. waiting to see if 2021 brings any changes.
Interesting Video! I love the Ripley and Ripmo equally. I have commented on this before, so apologies if I sound like a broken record!...LOL. My first Ibis bike was a V1 Ripley. I road this thing for about 5 years and put it on a fricken Pedestal !! Whenever I demo'd a bike I would always compare it to my beloved Ripley. No bike out there can pedal as efficiently up and down IMO. Even the V1 is still relevant and badass to this day!! Speaks volumes about Ibis - they really know what they're doing!! As Mo' stated it also put a smile on my face every time I ride it! After riding it for 5 years I had the urge to look into another bike ( I'm a one bike dude). At the time the V1 Ripmo came out and there was a lot of buzz on how amazing it is. I always wanted to visit the Ibis HQ and thought this would be a great excuse - to go demo the Ripmo at the HQ and a bonus would be to visit the company. So I did. I wasn't sold at the time. I felt it was too big and burly and wasn't used to the progressive Geo. I even told Ibis I prefer the quickness and the smaller Ripley. Ibis assured me that you can set it up to behave like the Ripley - I still wasn't sold...So I stayed with my lady, Ms. Ripley! In the subsequent years that followed I demo'd all the newer Ripley's including the current one and thought I should pull the trigger. I was very impressed with how fricken polished the V4 Ripley is! So responsive that I think it's a mind reader! I thought of jumping and the thing went a few feet off the ground. It was even more stable ( a common criticism of all Ripleys') and glued to the trail - hyper responsive!!! Then the Ripmo AF came out! - threw a monkey wrench at my already indecisiveness!!. I found a shop to demo it, and I demo'd the Carbon too. I reconsidered the V1 Carbon because of the extra stability. I found a deal on a V1 Carbon Ripmo, closed my eyes, and handed the salesperson my Credit Card!..LOL. I think I made the right decision. I feel the V1 Carbon Ripmo does everything as well (including climbing) as the Ripley with the added stability. It's just as responsive and nimble in my opinion. And also pedals as efficiently. Don't let anyone try to tell you, you might be "overbiked" with the Ripmo. That extra stability and Travel is Gold! It truly is confidence inspiring! I think the differences are subtle "at speed". I suppose it depends on the terrain. Some people say that if you put the mileage in, the Ripley might be better. But I think it makes no difference. I suppose it comes down to your riding style. You may be a little more precise in rock gardens etc. with the Ripley. The Ripmo just smashes through that stuff, whereas, you can get surgical with the Ripley. As an experiment, before I sold my girl ( my Ripley..LOL) to my Bro, I alternated rides on these bikes. What I found was very interesting, I felt I could actually ride my Ripley better after riding my Ripmo a few months. On sections I had difficulty with before I got the Ripmo, I floated over them. I think maybe because I found a better line on the Ripmo due to it's "monster-truck" tendencies! In a perfect world I would own both, but I feel the extra support on the Ripmo would help you when you need it most.
@@moandhannahtravel Thanks! I actually was referring to the V1 Ripley when I stated it's still a badass bike to this day!...LOL. They're all badass though!
The 29x2.6 Maxxis Rekons are my favorite tire also--the perfect balance of speed, grip, and weight. I think the Ripley would be better with a 65.5* HTA (keeping all the other geo numbers the same), a 140mm fork, and i30 rims. These are small nitpicks but what I would like to see with the next version. It could come stock with 2.6 rekons also.
Rekons are one of those tires that people seem to either love or hate. I know they have a reputation for getting very loose on rock slabs (moab slickrock is much gripper than typical rock slabs), but do well on most trail surfaces. I also think Dissector/Rekon would be a good tire combo on a short travel bike like a Ripley.
@@mrvwbug4423 I probably wouldn't like the 2.4 or narrower Rekons because they wouldn't provide enough grip. If I was running 2.4 tires, I would probably want the Dissectors. I tried the 2.6 Dissectors but they were too heavy and slow.
I would take the ripmo. 220lb and blow through travel. Been on Santa Cruz hightower lt c reserve size xxl . 150 front and back, diety riser bars . Pnw bachelor dropper. Does everything well from urban to tougher trails. Dream bike is evil the following v2 happy trails
Good to see the Sapphire get a mention as it is kinda one of those under the radar forks. Have it on my Arktos ST and Intense Spider, so yeah, you could say I like it :). Don’t know if I’d classify it as an XC fork though. More like a trail fork to me. Enjoyed the review. I’d probably opt for the Ridley for where I live and how I ride.
Nice video. I ride a 110/120 Tallboy III which is very similar to your Ripley, but with a steeper HT (68.5). I have two sets of wheels - a set like yours on wide rims and 2.3" tires, and a light XC set with XC Race tires, which are mind blowing if you like to climb and don't mind a bit more challenge on the descents. Living in CO, I almost never use the heavier wheels and tires, the light ones are so awesome. Might want to give some light XC wheels and tires a try sometime on your Ripley.
Steve Loyd That’s rad!!! I love my wheels and tires because my Ripley for the time being has turned into my do everything bike! After I build up my ripmo I might have to give a lighter set up on the ripley!!
Thx for the review. Can you tell us more about your suspension settings and tire pressure? I bought my Ripley from Shaun at n+1 he had advised running body weight plus 50 psi in the shock which for me was 170lbs + 50 = 220 psi the ride was efficient but a bit harsh. Currently I'm running mine per the Ibis recommended setup for 170lb rider = 200psi in the shock, this feels quite a bit better and I haven't lost any time on the climbs according to my stats. I've contemplated running lower pressure in the shock and toggling the platform switch for prolonged climbs but dunno if I want my riding to get that complicated. Also what pressure are you running in your tires? My bike came w/ the ibis 35mm rims and w/ 2.4" Rekon gumbwalls but I found the DT compound to be to slippery and switched to a 2.4 dissector up front. I typically run the tires 23psi rear and 19 psi front but I also tend to keep my wheels on the ground most of the time. I have also tried a 2.6" minion dh and 2.6" reckon for a period but the bigger tires felt draggy on smooth trails however they lightened up quite a bit as the trail got more techy. Horses for courses I guess. Cheers, tOm
Looking to trade 3 bikes in for 1: JET9 RDO (120mm front), RIP9 (120mm front), WFO9 (160mm front). Ride mostly XC type trails, but also alpine type trails during my holidays (ridden the RIP9 in Moab a couple of times, have had it longer than the WFO9). Garage is getting full, and it is new bike time! Not getting the amount of time in on the MTB as I used to, so 3 bikes is a bit much (N+2). Ripley the way to go?
Hi Mo. I just got back into MTB after a decade as a roadie (easier to find riding time with little kids. I used to BMX in the 80s, mtb in the 90s . I had a Ripmo AF last year but found it almost too much bike. Great downhill, but it was slow and awkward on tight trails (XL frame). Kids at LBS with full face helmets and body armour thought it was awesome, but I’m 50. I sold it and bought a lower end build of Ripley V4 for this season. I prefer more flowy and twisty trails, don’t ride double black or bike park or mandatory air. But my local trails (west of Calgary) are overused and tend to be rocky and rooty. Question - do you think the carbon Ripmo would feel similar to the Ripmo AF - too big and king for right sections?
To be quite honest, that fox shock on Mo's Ripley is not very good. For being supported by DVO, I'm surprised he rides it with a Fox rather than the Topaz. The Topaz is so much better than that Fox. I'm curious if you bought yours like this or if you had the chance to ride it for a while with the fox then later with the Topaz.
@@travelthenarrowtrail8660 @Travel the Narrow Trail If am not mistaken, one of the first Mo's video with the Ripley, he wrote back to one of my comment saying that there was a shortage of Topaz. I got really lucky to get one in a small online store in Germany. Everywhere I looked, there was no Topaz left! And I did ride my Ripley for a good 6 months and more than 1000km with the DPS. Then I switched and, what a difference. I have a Topaz on my previous bike (Specialized Enduro) and got convinced by the package good performance/not too expensive /serviceability. With the 140mm fork slackening the head tube (which I have done) and 4 piston brakes (which I haven't done yet), you end up with a lighter Ripmo like, and if you need slacker HTA, there are few options available.
Hello Mo, I currently have a Giant Trance 2 which was my beginner bike. I am now looking at upgrading to either a Ripley 29er or a Niner Rip 9 29er. I ride the trails and mountains in AZ within the Phoenix Metroplex. I would appreciate your thoughts and comments. Jg
Ripley V4 or Tallboy 4? I have a 2020 Tallboy 4 now and Ibis is running a sale on their new V5 Ripley with XO1(same price as their XT build-$6999), so I'm torn between selling my Tallboy 4 for a new bike before my Tallboy really drops in value. I like to replace my bikes every 3-4 yrs. I love the Santa Cruz and am worried about moving to something else, but this new pricing on the new Ripley is awful tempting!
I'm in Connecticut. I'm new to mountain biking but have been riding road for many years. Most of our off-road riding is lots of rolling up and down. Little of what I'd consider flow trails or long down hill runs. The terrain is usually rocky with trees and roots. It sounds like either of these bikes would work but the Ripmo may have a greater margin of safety for a beginner. What do you think?
Mo, I just recently bought a Ripley frame (partly because of your rave reviews), and have built it up. My question is...this is my first bike with this new style geometry (slack head tube, upright seat tube, wide bars). I've never rode with a stem shorter than 110mm. The short stem (40mm) on this bike rides surprisingly well...but I feel like I could use a bit more reach. I'm tall (6.1) and long armed -- like you are...what do you recommend for stem length on this (L) frame?
Mo, Who makes your bike stand? Looks aluminum, light weight, Tall, sturdy and compact. Great review. Think you convinced me on the Ripley AF. The 1 degree slacker head tube and bonus cost will allow upgrades. Looking fwd to making it a "mini RipMo".
I have a Ripley and I really like it, but when speeds pickup over rough stuff it gets nervous. Is it capable of going downhill? Yes. Is it confidence inspiring in the chunck? No. For me, it's perfect for XC trails and even flow trials and jump lines. Higher speed "send-it" lines? No.
A ripmo will always be more comfortable in chunk and bigger sends but for me like Jim I don’t care if I’m the first one down! Gotta ride what makes you comfortable!
@@moandhannahtravel For the record, I have faster-rolling 2.4 tires on my Ripley. Ikon on the rear and Bontrager XR4 on the front. Very fun and fast in its environment. I have an HD5 inbound for the rest!
I haven't done a comparison on my channel on these two but I've spent alot of time on these two, I would say that v4 Ripley is not as twitchy in the steering, probably due to the fork offset now and it handles better in rough descents. I think the Ripley LS feels more poppy and fast but I think the v4 RIpley climbs better and descends better. I think the quick steering and reckless edge the Ripley LS has to it is due to fork offset and steeper HTA. Both great bikes and both amazing looking too in person.
Quite sure the X2 would be a great option but I can tell you the DVO Topaz air is a massive improvement to the stock Fox DPS... And so much cheaper than the X2
I installed a DVO Topaz on my Ripley v4 and it was a huge improvement in small bump compliance, composure hitting square edge bumps, and composure in rough terrain. The McLeod is probably equally capable. The DPS was a huge disappointment in rough terrain.
I recently demoed the new 429. Wasn’t even close for me the Ripley out climbed the bike and is way more maneuverable. The 429 shined on straight line downhill chunk. That was it
What he didn't say is that at the end of the day, any trail can be ridden on almost any bike. The ability is in the rider. On the other hand, you could have "dentist" build Ripley and be out of shape (lack of riding) and never use it to it potential. Likewise, you have have a Ripmo with a Fox 38 and X2 in back and ride only buffed out trails and never truly take the bike to its capability. Both are amazing bikes and Ibis is really leading the way in the 29er category. My personal bias, I think the Ripmo is the closest I've experienced to a one bike quiver, if there is such a thing...
YES! But you’ll have to work hard at it. You can’t just go out there and cruise around gently. Ride twice a week for 1-2 hours at a time, Climbing steep stuff, pedaling hard, and riding with people who are moderately stronger than you, and you’ll get fit.
I dislike the color of the Riply... it’s like the color you would make a babies toy because it’s cute and sweet. I grew out of that shit a long time ago..
I grew out of all black everything when I went thru my Harley phase...oh, wait a sec; yeah I guess I never did go thru romanticizing all that crazy. That being said, silver charcoal is a good look as well as race colors like orange, yellow, red and green. All bike manu should offer something similar to treks project one option.
I had the Ripley vs Ripmo dilemma, too, when I was choosing a new bike back in February (coming off a 2016 Stumpjumper). Since I’ll soon be 55 years old, I ended up going with the Ripmo, for exactly the reason Mo stated - a little extra margin for error; since my body doesn’t recover from crashes as quickly as it used to. Haven’t regretted that decision at all (though I may still pick up a light set of wheels/tires, to swap in on big climbing days).
I have the Ripmo too and spent a fair amount to time on the Ripley v4. I would say what I like is that the Ripmo is the better climbing bike in its category and can be built up pretty light too. But the plus feeling suspension for downhill chunk is what I really enjoy with it when I ride in CO, NM and Utah. The Ripley is an all out rocket but can be overwhelmed and bouncy on super chunk because its only 120mm. I honestly feel that Ripmo is the closest thing to an all out one bike quiver. I remember when I had my Hightower I thought about getting a v4 Ripley then got the RIpmo, rode it and my SC Hightower and sold the Hightower. The Ripley has never entered my mind again, its not needed.
@@travelthenarrowtrail8660, funny, I have an HT CC too, and waiting for my ripmo, lol, might sell the HT..
Got the Ripley with the carbon s35 wheels and hydra hubs. It's such a bombproof bike! 600+ miles of single track bliss on it with ZERO issues!
I have a Ripmo AF on the way. A Ripley AF would have made the decision harder, but I'd still probably pick the more forgiving Ripmo. I think under biking makes sense for the more skilled or those that want to crush the climbs. I ride alone and don't care if I take awhile to get to the top. A bike that has my back for those OH $*!# moments going down was a priority.
I'd like a Ripley, but there's no aluminum frame option. Carbon isn't in the budget for everyone. I bought a Ripmo AF. It was more than I wanted to spend but I felt it was the right choice due to budget and my weight, not neccessary due to my riding. This is my first full suspension, and it's getting cold here in Minnesota. I only got a few rides on the AF, but it handles my weight on drops!
That’s rad! I loved riding the AF!
Well, this comment was well timed. I have a Ripley AF on order, and the slacker HT over the carbon Ripley looks to be a sweet combination.
Less travel, more fun.
I've done a lot of the gnarly trails of SoCal on my XC hardtail and gravel bike. Definitely takes more focus, but it's a hell of a thrill ride. My Ripmo makes me lazy nowadays. I'm considering making a Ripley into an XC ripper
Actually just bought a Ripmo AF, haven't even gotten a chance to ride it yet due to the new bike day curse (snow) haha. The Ripley sounds like a great all arounder if you either don't ride park, or have a dedicated park bike. I always felt the Ripmo was the "one bike to do it all" solution for everything from mellow trails to double black bike park lines.
That is how I feel and I’m waiting for the Ripmo to come to my local shop in my size.
Thanks a lot for this detailed report on the qualities of the Ripley and also for the comparison to it‘s „bigger brother“! I was long looking for something like that. So you nailed my decision for the Ripley here, because i am exactly the type of rider like you - wanting to be esp. fast on the uphills! Plus the decisive points for me are: The bike is lighter than the Ripmo and better suited for all-day-long exploring rides through nature. I want a bike „just to ride“ everywhere - always looking for flowy trails, but having a bike that can cope with almost every obstacle you are facing - because you never know what you will encounter in unknown terrain!
Been kind of wondering why you switched to the Ripley, had to stop a video a couple times and double take that indeed you were riding a Ripley! Kudos to you for having fun and riding a bike that gives you more pleasure for your style of riding. I think for a seasoned/experienced rider under forking/suspension sometimes makes it fun or more of a challenge to ride trails, less forgiving but faster if you pick good lines. Boils more down to rider skill then anything.
Thanks cool video! Did you ever use tire inserts
I’ve ridden both, and you made a great summary, Mo. I’m back on the V3 Ripley, and weighing the V4 vs the Pivot Switchblade for my next trail bike. The Switchblade gives you some more confidence on stuff like Ahab while still climbing great. The Ripley is SO fun on so many trails, though. Might just keep the V3 and add the SB. Nice review!
I've had my Ripley for about 2 months and absolutely love it. I agree with Mo, I like getting up the climbs fast, and descents smooth. I also have a 2019 Specialized Stumpjumper 29er which I love and is pretty tricked out too. Both bikes have fox factory susp (Rip is 120/130 and Stump is 140/150). I find the Ripley, as one would expect, to be really playful. I actually was surprised, however, at how "big" of a bike it is when I first built it up. It's "bigger" than the Stump if you look at the geometries. That being said, the Stump has made me such a better rider because of the confidence and forgiveness it offers with the bigger suspension. I feel that my riding has improved greatly because of the Stumpjumper, and those skills will be easier to deploy on the shorter travel Rip moving forward. I think now that I have upped my game as a rider, the shorter travel bike is a better option for 90% of the riding I do. The other 10% (bike park, certain front range CO trails like Longhorn at White Rance, are better suited to the Stumpjumper or similar in the 140-150 rear travel range). I'm sure the Ripmo is a phenomenal bike and I'm sure I'll have one not too long in the future when it's time to sell the Stump. You always need at least 2 mountain bikes:) -Danny
Thank you. I have a SJ 27.5 at 140/150. Same year. I’ve been debating the Ripmo vs Ripley to get into the world of Ibis. Then again, my Stumpjumper is a converted 120/130 and I’ll always have a short travel bike. Just got to change the yoke, shock and fork back. Maybe I need a hardtail XC or shorter travel FS XC. Gosh, choices in the golden age of mountain biking.
Nice! Love to see it Mo and Hannah!
Mo, great comparison on the two bikes. I've been riding Ibis bikes since the intro of the original mojo SL. I ride a full custom v1 Ripmo now and it's hands down the best trail bike I've ever owned. I truly feel these bikes are the best trail bikes on the planet.
Thanks for great review Mo you rock
Good review. I think you are spot on that this is the right bike for most riders, and where they ride. Seams like most people are over biked these days. The way you described how you like to ride makes sense for a Ripley. I think you are nuts if you think the Ripley is the best choice for Captain Ahab considering the options from Ibis. IMO a Ripmo is the way to go for the harder trails in Moab. I have owned a Ripley, it is a great bike, but currently I am on a Ripmo V2. I wish I had both.
Have you thought about throwing on a 140mm fork? Im thinking it would slacken the head .5 and add more downhill confidence. I'll be building one next year. waiting to see if 2021 brings any changes.
Barry F A lot of people do that but I have been stoked on the 130. I wanted to keep it a little bit more Xc!
Thanks for the great review, Tinker Juarez’s son! Super helpful.
Interesting Video!
I love the Ripley and Ripmo equally.
I have commented on this before, so apologies if I sound like a broken record!...LOL.
My first Ibis bike was a V1 Ripley. I road this thing for about 5 years and put it on a fricken Pedestal !! Whenever I demo'd a bike I would always compare it to my beloved Ripley. No bike out there can pedal as efficiently up and down IMO. Even the V1 is still relevant and badass to this day!! Speaks volumes about Ibis - they really know what they're doing!! As Mo' stated it also put a smile on my face every time I ride it!
After riding it for 5 years I had the urge to look into another bike ( I'm a one bike dude). At the time the V1 Ripmo came out and there was a lot of buzz on how amazing it is. I always wanted to visit the Ibis HQ and thought this would be a great excuse - to go demo the Ripmo at the HQ and a bonus would be to visit the company. So I did. I wasn't sold at the time. I felt it was too big and burly and wasn't used to the progressive Geo. I even told Ibis I prefer the quickness and the smaller Ripley. Ibis assured me that you can set it up to behave like the Ripley - I still wasn't sold...So I stayed with my lady, Ms. Ripley!
In the subsequent years that followed I demo'd all the newer Ripley's including the current one and thought I should pull the trigger. I was very impressed with how fricken polished the V4 Ripley is! So responsive that I think it's a mind reader! I thought of jumping and the thing went a few feet off the ground. It was even more stable ( a common criticism of all Ripleys') and glued to the trail - hyper responsive!!!
Then the Ripmo AF came out! - threw a monkey wrench at my already indecisiveness!!. I found a shop to demo it, and I demo'd the Carbon too. I reconsidered the V1 Carbon because of the extra stability.
I found a deal on a V1 Carbon Ripmo, closed my eyes, and handed the salesperson my Credit Card!..LOL. I think I made the right decision.
I feel the V1 Carbon Ripmo does everything as well (including climbing) as the Ripley with the added stability. It's just as responsive and nimble in my opinion. And also pedals as efficiently. Don't let anyone try to tell you, you might be "overbiked" with the Ripmo. That extra stability and Travel is Gold! It truly is confidence inspiring!
I think the differences are subtle "at speed". I suppose it depends on the terrain. Some people say that if you put the mileage in, the Ripley might be better. But I think it makes no difference. I suppose it comes down to your riding style. You may be a little more precise in rock gardens etc. with the Ripley. The Ripmo just smashes through that stuff, whereas, you can get surgical with the Ripley.
As an experiment, before I sold my girl ( my Ripley..LOL) to my Bro, I alternated rides on these bikes. What I found was very interesting, I felt I could actually ride my Ripley better after riding my Ripmo a few months. On sections I had difficulty with before I got the Ripmo, I floated over them. I think maybe because I found a better line on the Ripmo due to it's "monster-truck" tendencies!
In a perfect world I would own both, but I feel the extra support on the Ripmo would help you when you need it most.
Norbert Demanuele that’s awesome!!! I loved my v1 ripmo and you’re right, it’s still an amazing bike to this day!
@@moandhannahtravel Thanks! I actually was referring to the V1 Ripley when I stated it's still a badass bike to this day!...LOL. They're all badass though!
Thanks for the information! Great video!
Mo, you and your minions... Great video Mo, you've surely put this bike through its paces for sure.
Which bike would say is mor capable ? Mojo 4 or Ripley ?
The 29x2.6 Maxxis Rekons are my favorite tire also--the perfect balance of speed, grip, and weight. I think the Ripley would be better with a 65.5* HTA (keeping all the other geo numbers the same), a 140mm fork, and i30 rims. These are small nitpicks but what I would like to see with the next version. It could come stock with 2.6 rekons also.
Mark Sandoval Rekons are the best!
Rekons are one of those tires that people seem to either love or hate. I know they have a reputation for getting very loose on rock slabs (moab slickrock is much gripper than typical rock slabs), but do well on most trail surfaces. I also think Dissector/Rekon would be a good tire combo on a short travel bike like a Ripley.
@@mrvwbug4423 I probably wouldn't like the 2.4 or narrower Rekons because they wouldn't provide enough grip. If I was running 2.4 tires, I would probably want the Dissectors. I tried the 2.6 Dissectors but they were too heavy and slow.
I would take the ripmo. 220lb and blow through travel. Been on Santa Cruz hightower lt c reserve size xxl . 150 front and back, diety riser bars . Pnw bachelor dropper. Does everything well from urban to tougher trails. Dream bike is evil the following v2 happy trails
Good to see the Sapphire get a mention as it is kinda one of those under the radar forks. Have it on my Arktos ST and Intense Spider, so yeah, you could say I like it :). Don’t know if I’d classify it as an XC fork though. More like a trail fork to me. Enjoyed the review. I’d probably opt for the Ridley for where I live and how I ride.
Are you and Hannah planning on doing a long term review of the mojo 4?
Nice video. I ride a 110/120 Tallboy III which is very similar to your Ripley, but with a steeper HT (68.5). I have two sets of wheels - a set like yours on wide rims and 2.3" tires, and a light XC set with XC Race tires, which are mind blowing if you like to climb and don't mind a bit more challenge on the descents. Living in CO, I almost never use the heavier wheels and tires, the light ones are so awesome. Might want to give some light XC wheels and tires a try sometime on your Ripley.
Steve Loyd That’s rad!!! I love my wheels and tires because my Ripley for the time being has turned into my do everything bike! After I build up my ripmo I might have to give a lighter set up on the ripley!!
Whoa bro! Tinker still rips!
That's a lot of sponsors.
Awesome!
Thx for the review. Can you tell us more about your suspension settings and tire pressure? I bought my Ripley from Shaun at n+1 he had advised running body weight plus 50 psi in the shock which for me was 170lbs + 50 = 220 psi the ride was efficient but a bit harsh. Currently I'm running mine per the Ibis recommended setup for 170lb rider = 200psi in the shock, this feels quite a bit better and I haven't lost any time on the climbs according to my stats. I've contemplated running lower pressure in the shock and toggling the platform switch for prolonged climbs but dunno if I want my riding to get that complicated.
Also what pressure are you running in your tires? My bike came w/ the ibis 35mm rims and w/ 2.4" Rekon gumbwalls but I found the DT compound to be to slippery and switched to a 2.4 dissector up front. I typically run the tires 23psi rear and 19 psi front but I also tend to keep my wheels on the ground most of the time. I have also tried a 2.6" minion dh and 2.6" reckon for a period but the bigger tires felt draggy on smooth trails however they lightened up quite a bit as the trail got more techy. Horses for courses I guess. Cheers, tOm
Looking to trade 3 bikes in for 1: JET9 RDO (120mm front), RIP9 (120mm front), WFO9 (160mm front). Ride mostly XC type trails, but also alpine type trails during my holidays (ridden the RIP9 in Moab a couple of times, have had it longer than the WFO9). Garage is getting full, and it is new bike time! Not getting the amount of time in on the MTB as I used to, so 3 bikes is a bit much (N+2). Ripley the way to go?
Hi Mo.
I just got back into MTB after a decade as a roadie (easier to find riding time with little kids. I used to BMX in the 80s, mtb in the 90s .
I had a Ripmo AF last year but found it almost too much bike. Great downhill, but it was slow and awkward on tight trails (XL frame). Kids at LBS with full face helmets and body armour thought it was awesome, but I’m 50. I sold it and bought a lower end build of Ripley V4 for this season. I prefer more flowy and twisty trails, don’t ride double black or bike park or mandatory air. But my local trails (west of Calgary) are overused and tend to be rocky and rooty.
Question - do you think the carbon Ripmo would feel similar to the Ripmo AF - too big and king for right sections?
Added the winning DVO combo 140mm D2 Sapphire and Topaz T3 on my Ripley v4 to make it more versatile. Couldn’t be happier!
To be quite honest, that fox shock on Mo's Ripley is not very good. For being supported by DVO, I'm surprised he rides it with a Fox rather than the Topaz. The Topaz is so much better than that Fox. I'm curious if you bought yours like this or if you had the chance to ride it for a while with the fox then later with the Topaz.
@@travelthenarrowtrail8660 @Travel the Narrow Trail If am not mistaken, one of the first Mo's video with the Ripley, he wrote back to one of my comment saying that there was a shortage of Topaz. I got really lucky to get one in a small online store in Germany. Everywhere I looked, there was no Topaz left!
And I did ride my Ripley for a good 6 months and more than 1000km with the DPS. Then I switched and, what a difference. I have a Topaz on my previous bike (Specialized Enduro) and got convinced by the package good performance/not too expensive /serviceability. With the 140mm fork slackening the head tube (which I have done) and 4 piston brakes (which I haven't done yet), you end up with a lighter Ripmo like, and if you need slacker HTA, there are few options available.
Hello Mo, I currently have a Giant Trance 2 which was my beginner bike. I am now looking at upgrading to either a Ripley 29er or a Niner Rip 9 29er. I ride the trails and mountains in AZ within the Phoenix Metroplex. I would appreciate your thoughts and comments. Jg
Ripley V4 or Tallboy 4? I have a 2020 Tallboy 4 now and Ibis is running a sale on their new V5 Ripley with XO1(same price as their XT build-$6999), so I'm torn between selling my Tallboy 4 for a new bike before my Tallboy really drops in value. I like to replace my bikes every 3-4 yrs. I love the Santa Cruz and am worried about moving to something else, but this new pricing on the new Ripley is awful tempting!
I'm in Connecticut. I'm new to mountain biking but have been riding road for many years. Most of our off-road riding is lots of rolling up and down. Little of what I'd consider flow trails or long down hill runs. The terrain is usually rocky with trees and roots. It sounds like either of these bikes would work but the Ripmo may have a greater margin of safety for a beginner. What do you think?
Would you run Rekons anywhere? I live in the PNW and the local bike shop said they don't encourage anyone to do anything below DHR/DHF.
How tall are you Mo?
Mo, I just recently bought a Ripley frame (partly because of your rave reviews), and have built it up. My question is...this is my first bike with this new style geometry (slack head tube, upright seat tube, wide bars). I've never rode with a stem shorter than 110mm. The short stem (40mm) on this bike rides surprisingly well...but I feel like I could use a bit more reach. I'm tall (6.1) and long armed -- like you are...what do you recommend for stem length on this (L) frame?
Mo, Who makes your bike stand? Looks aluminum, light weight, Tall, sturdy and compact.
Great review. Think you convinced me on the Ripley AF. The 1 degree slacker head tube and bonus cost will allow upgrades. Looking fwd to making it a "mini RipMo".
Its a feedback sports one, w highly recommend it!!!!
Awesome wrap up, mine is coming in January😁
JimJiggaNYC yewww!! 🤘 Congrats!
Is there a way to put a bashguard on it, does it have the tabs?
It has an tab adapter that you put on the bottom bracket.
From the review it looks a lot like my 2020 transition smuggler. And I love my bike. Fly’s uphill and screams down.
Hey Mo, I see that you changed out your stem, what stem did you get and have you noticed a change in the ride?
What stem length u run?
Which feedback sports bike stand is that?
hey do you have any bikes for sale around the 3k price range
Would you take that tire setup to santa cruz?
I have a Ripley and I really like it, but when speeds pickup over rough stuff it gets nervous. Is it capable of going downhill? Yes. Is it confidence inspiring in the chunck? No.
For me, it's perfect for XC trails and even flow trials and jump lines. Higher speed "send-it" lines? No.
Like mo says I'm also ok not being the first on the downs
@@jimjigga Then you'd probably love it. For me, it's not a 1-bike solution ... but I still love it.
A ripmo will always be more comfortable in chunk and bigger sends but for me like Jim I don’t care if I’m the first one down! Gotta ride what makes you comfortable!
@@moandhannahtravel For the record, I have faster-rolling 2.4 tires on my Ripley. Ikon on the rear and Bontrager XR4 on the front. Very fun and fast in its environment. I have an HD5 inbound for the rest!
Love your channel!
Get a hold on a V2 Ripley LS and do a comparison to the V4.
Christian Holmstedt that would be rad!!
@@moandhannahtravel
Many would appreciate it.
I have a Ripley LS and love it. Demoed a V4 but didn't immediately need to upgrade.
I haven't done a comparison on my channel on these two but I've spent alot of time on these two, I would say that v4 Ripley is not as twitchy in the steering, probably due to the fork offset now and it handles better in rough descents. I think the Ripley LS feels more poppy and fast but I think the v4 RIpley climbs better and descends better. I think the quick steering and reckless edge the Ripley LS has to it is due to fork offset and steeper HTA. Both great bikes and both amazing looking too in person.
How tall are you Mo? I know you said earlier that the XL is a true XL not like the ripmo. Thx
I wish you could put a dpx2 on the ripley. As far as I know there isn't a correct shock size for it.
I think I’ve seen that done before🤔. But yeah, I would like to have a Ripley with a piggyback shock 🤘
Jenson lists the 2021 DPX2 in 190x45. Would that work?
Quite sure the X2 would be a great option but I can tell you the DVO Topaz air is a massive improvement to the stock Fox DPS... And so much cheaper than the X2
Get the XTR m9000 race lever for better modulation. They don’t have that grabby pesky Servo Wave technology that give shimano brakes on off feel.
Can you use a coil shock on that thing?
Great review, can someone name the Ripley’s competitors?
do yourself a favor and swap that DPS for McLeod. you would be surprised how much more capable the bike will become, especially on fast chunky trails.
brano rataj interesting!!!
I installed a DVO Topaz on my Ripley v4 and it was a huge improvement in small bump compliance, composure hitting square edge bumps, and composure in rough terrain. The McLeod is probably equally capable. The DPS was a huge disappointment in rough terrain.
Can confirm. Had no complaints about DPS, but got Mara IL just to try it out. Damn I wish I would have made the swap sooner.
Waiting on my ripmo is driving me crazy! Still have to wait till around April or early may!
call one plus bikes in Kentucky, they might be able to get you one sooner
What chain ring are you running? Had a great 1st year on my Ripley V4! My first full suspension bike. Looks like I made a great choice!
great video
Pivot trail 429 with a 140 fork perfect stiff solid bike.
Owned both the 429 and the Ripley in that set up. Ripley owns
@@pdadv77 rode the 429 and had to have it, kinda surprised u preferred the Ripley but to each their own.
I recently demoed the new 429. Wasn’t even close for me the Ripley out climbed the bike and is way more maneuverable. The 429 shined on straight line downhill chunk. That was it
What he didn't say is that at the end of the day, any trail can be ridden on almost any bike. The ability is in the rider. On the other hand, you could have "dentist" build Ripley and be out of shape (lack of riding) and never use it to it potential. Likewise, you have have a Ripmo with a Fox 38 and X2 in back and ride only buffed out trails and never truly take the bike to its capability. Both are amazing bikes and Ibis is really leading the way in the 29er category. My personal bias, I think the Ripmo is the closest I've experienced to a one bike quiver, if there is such a thing...
short travel 29er for life
I think this guy likes the Ripley
Hey Mo you need to try a Dissector on the front in a 2.6 I think you would like it!
Can you get physically fit from MTB?
YES! But you’ll have to work hard at it. You can’t just go out there and cruise around gently. Ride twice a week for 1-2 hours at a time, Climbing steep stuff, pedaling hard, and riding with people who are moderately stronger than you, and you’ll get fit.
Great riding and review as usual. Thank you. But you look like Hulk Hogan in a wresting match with your hair!
RIPMO AF 😎🍺
hayes dominion, no need to bleed them every week
One big commercial for sponsors
Mo, can I please wash your bike?
Second
Ryder Tait 4th 😢😂
@@moandhannahtravel nooooooooooooooooo
I dislike the color of the Riply... it’s like the color you would make a babies toy because it’s cute and sweet. I grew out of that shit a long time ago..
I grew out of all black everything when I went thru my Harley phase...oh, wait a sec; yeah I guess I never did go thru romanticizing all that crazy. That being said, silver charcoal is a good look as well as race colors like orange, yellow, red and green. All bike manu should offer something similar to treks project one option.
The high tonal inflection on the last syllable makes this guy unbearable to listen to.
I'm going to buy those bars and grips tomorrow 👍