Niner updates its AIR 9 RDO hardtail

Niner Bikes has refreshed its ultimate carbon hardtail, the AIR 9 RDO (Race Day Optimized). The frame is now 10 percent ligher and the geometry was updated specifically for racers and riders who want a “snappy whip.” Changes include a 435 mm chainstay (4 mm shorter than the previous version) that allows the wheel to tuck closer to the bottom bracket while still allowing for a 2.4 inch tire (depending on type) and up to a 38-tooth chainring. The cockpit is longer, the head angle is slacker and the handlebar height lower (on the 100 mm fork setup) for go-fast aggressive racing.

The frame can now accept up to a 120 mm fork, which brings the bars up and shortens the reach over the 100 mm race version, providing more neutral handling. The bike’s rear gets 148 x 12 mm Boost spacing and, while the seatpost size is only 27.2, the frame is internal dropper post compatible.

Sizes range from extra small to extra large, all of which will have two bottle cage mounts. The top-of-the-line build features a full Shimano XTR 1×11 kit with Niner’s own carbon XC wheels, the RockShox RS-1 Solo Air 100 mm fork and Maxxis Ikon tires for $8,500. Five other build levels are available, down to the “2-Star” SRAM GX1 build for $3,500 with a RockShox Reba 120 mm fork and GX1 1×11 components.

The new AIR 9 RDO bikes will begin shipping in June.

Niner Bikes AIR 9 RDO from Niner Bikes on Vimeo.