Ibis Ripley LS Carbon X01 Eagle Werx Complete Mountain Bike 2017

If the Ripley LS is Ibis' response to the clamor for a longer, slacker, rowdier version of the original Ripley, then the 2017 Ripley LS Carbon X01 Eagle Werx Complete Mountain Bike represents the pinnacle of the line that Ibis claims takes the Ripley from sporty to gnarly to push the envelope further. Compared to the original, the LS earns its initials as both longer and slacker, which results in a bigger footprint that oozes confidence when the trail turns steep and chunky. The Werx build gets, well, the works, with SRAM's X01 Eagle one by 12 speed drivetrain, and a Fox Transfer hydraulic dropper. Ibis' whip fast 942 carbon hoops complete the dream build for a versatile, race ready machine. Aside from the geometry changes, this is still the classic Ripley that we've been ripping in all manner of terrain. The construction process remains the same, beginning with an internal bladder that's wrapped in a monocoque carbon layup that keeps the carbon fabric intact through joints. The precision of this method means that no additional molds or fillers are needed to keep the frame light and strong. The Ripley LS's swingarm and clevis are still filled with foam glass microsphere cores to ensure their structural integrity while keeping weight down, and it has the same expanded dropper capacity as the regular version. The Ripley LS utilizes the latest Fox Float DPS shock, which is tuned for the DW Link suspension's firm, consistent pedaling platform. Expect it to handle with nimble speed while accelerating out of turns and taking advantage of the suspension's strong anti squat tendencies. The 120mm rear travel, combined with the Ripley LS's 67. 5 degree head tube, makes for a surprisingly eager trail platform that combines the best qualities of XC and trail bikes. Increasing rear stiffness was the key to this versatility, and is bolstered by the inclusion of a boost rear axle. To this end, Ibis engineers also revisited the internals of the dual eccentrics used in the...