Overview
This bike's design draws inspiration from classic hardtail mountain bikes, exuding a sense of nostalgia but with modern performance advantages. The TRVL 8.9 features short travel forks and tyre widths reminiscent of a golden era of mountain biking.
Boasting a 70-degree head angle and a RockShox Judy fork with 40mm of travel, its capable handling and cushioning make that long gravel sportive or multi-day adventure easier on your back and hands, and you can ride with confidence down loose fire roads knowing your front tyre will track and grip the ground.
No triple chainrings or 6-speed screw on freewheels here. A SRAM 1x12 Eagle GX/SX mix groupset with an 11-50 tooth cassette is engineered for smoother, more precise shifting. The wide-range cassette allows you to tackle steeper trails with enough left in the tank to handle whatever challenges you find when you get to the top.
Something else not brought back from the 90's, are the brakes. Not a V-brake or canti in sight. Just some bang-up-to-date hydraulic disc brakes running on 160mm rotors, so you can stop whenever and wherever you want, whatever the surface or weather - how's that for progress.
The Boardman ADV alloy wheelset is tubeless-ready. To experience the added grip, comfort, and versatility of a tubeless set-up, you only need add sealant, and valves!
Goodyear's 45mm gravel-specific Connector is the TRVL 8.9's tyre of choice. Designed as a fast-rolling all-terrain tyre, its versatile tread pattern with tightly-spaced centre knobs and aggressive side knobs delivers straight-line momentum whilst retaining grip demands when the direction changes or the route gets technical.....and they have tan walls for a 90's vibe!
The Fizik Terra Argo saddle is designed, from its rails up, as a dedicated gravel saddle. A stiff rail system supports a compliant shell, designed to facilitate a degree of flex, reducing vibration and improving comfort. Fizik has opted for a slightly softer, more progressive foam than that used on their racing saddles, and when combined with the Argo's shortened nose, waved profile, and ergonomic channel, helps riders hold their position for longer in more comfort and pedal more effectively over changing terrains.
TRVL 8.9 FB HIGHLIGHTS
Frame: 6061 Butted Alloy 142x12 Thru Axle
Forks: RockShox Rudy with 40mm Travel
Gears: SRAM Eagle, 1x12
Brakes: SRAM, Hydraulic Disc
Wheels: Boardman ADV Tubeless Ready
Tyres: Goodyear Connector, 700x45mm, Tubeless Ready