First Impressions: Ibis Tranny 29

Ibis recently introduced a 29-inch version of the Tranny and we’ve have been happily pedaling it around local trails over the past few weeks. What makes it different from other hardtail 29ers on the market? Check out my first impressions of this unique carbon hardtail after the jump.

Currently the Tranny is set up in Unchained mode, using a Gates 46/28 Center Track drivetrain, and the bike is super stealth and smooth. There is almost no noise when pedaling and just the hub buzzing along while coasting, very cool.

Ibis’ Slot Machine chain tensioning system is pretty ingenious too. No eccentric bottom bracket or horizontal dropouts here, just loosen a bolt in the chainstay, push down on the seat, and the chainstays lengthen to take up slack in a chain or belt. You can also remove the entire rear triangle making packing the bike up for travel just that much easier.

So far I’ve been pretty happy with the feel of the bike, even with its steep 71 degree headtube. It has taken a bit of getting used to when venturing through some of the more technical stuff, but this is a bike aimed at the cross country rider so I can’t fault it too much. The simplicity and speed of a lightweight carbon 29 inch singlespeed has really been fun on some of the more rolling trails around here. And the gear ratio seems pretty spot on for the good mix of uphills and flats common to my local haunts.

Along with the Gates drive, Ibis sent over a geared setup, so I’m looking forward to converting it and hammering out some longer rides soon. A full review of the Tranny 29 will be in an upcoming issue of Dirt Rag Magazine. Subscribe or renew now so you will be sure not to miss it. Check out the Ibis website for more information on the Tranny 29.