Overview
As with the rest of the updated MTR range, the 8.9 benefits from a longer top tube and slacker head angle than its predecessor. These changes improve handling and stability, keeping you in charge as you push the limits. The steeper seat angle also keeps your weight centralised in the bike during steep climbs, improving pedalling efficiency and traction on more demanding terrain. Internal cable routing keeps things looking clean, and a UDH hanger as a standard reduces concerns about replacements if the bike takes a slam.
The all-new RockShox Psylo Gold RC fork delivers 130mm of travel that is smooth and air-tuneable. With 35mm stanchions, an Isolater RC Damper, a Debonair air spring, and Premium bushings, the fork delivers top-tier performance in a great value, no-fuss package.
A custom-tuned RockShox Deluxe Select R+ is paired with the Psylo fork. Combined with the MTR's progressive suspension curve, the bike delivers incredible grip and support through large compressions and drops.
The 8.9's Deore 12-speed setup offers a marked weight reduction compared to lower-spec groupsets. The additional 10-tooth cog improves the potential top speed and reduces the steps between gears, allowing for more refined gear selection. The rear derailleur operates silently while efficiently shifting through the 10-51-tooth Deore cassette, ensuring stability and smooth power transfer in the drivetrain, particularly when navigating challenging off-road terrain.
A front Maxxis Dissector paired with a rear Rekon is the perfect "fit and forget" choice for the MTR 8.9, chosen with UK conditions in mind. Designed specifically for the demands of modern shorter-travel trail bikes, they feature versatile tread patterns that roll fast on firm trail centre surfaces but provide enough grip when the local forest becomes a slop fest in winter.
The 8.9 is equipped with the uprated folding bead tubeless versions of the Dissector and Rekon. They feature the Maxxis EXO sidewall protection, which is a tough, cut-resistant material added to the tyre's sidewalls to protect the rubber on the rockiest trails. In addition to the EXO, the tyres are made from a dual rubber compound, providing incredible grip and minimal rolling resistance.
A wide, tubeless-ready WTB STi30 wheelset supports the Maxxis tyres, and sealed cartridge bearing hubs keep them rolling through unpredictable British weather.
MTR 8.9 HIGHLIGHTS
Frame: 6061 Butted Alloy, Internal Cables 148x12, UDH Hanger
Fork: 130mm RockShox Psylo Gold RC
Shock: RockShox Deluxe Select+
Gears: Shimano Deore 1x12
Seatpost: 120mm (SM/MD) 150mm (LG/XL) Cable Actuated
Brakes: Shimano 2 Piston Hydraulic Disc
Wheels: Boardman Trail Alloy
Tyres: Maxxis Rekon EXO TR & Dissector EXO TR 29"x2.4"