The TransAM hardtail is an old favourite among the countless mountain bikes from the USA. Seven years ago, Transition Bikes launched an MTB under this name. Now the TransAM is available again - but only for a limited time.
Transition TransAM: turning old into new
In keeping with its history, the new Transition TransAM consists of a chromoly steel frame. However, the geometry allows the bike to shine as a modern hardtail. There are four sizes to choose from (S-XL) and thanks to the additional sliding dropouts, the length of the rear centre can be adjusted between 425 mm and 437 mm. This should give the rider the opportunity to sensibly change the balance and character of the hardtail. The Transition TransAM comes with 29-inch wheels as standard, either as a complete wheel or frameset option. So if you want to build your own custom bike from the frame, this model gives you the opportunity.
The Transition TransAM is equipped with a 150 mm suspension fork. It can also be ridden with a 140 or 160 mm suspension fork. At a very relaxed 64°, the head angle is quite slack and should ensure a fairly smooth ride. The competition is more likely to be curving through the woods at plus-minus 68°. With its external cable routing, the hardtail is kept simple - with the exception of the concealed routing for a seatpost. The bike has the option of switching to singlespeed and using the adjustable dropouts to tension the chain.
A hardtail as a very relaxed all-rounder
The hardtail is equipped with lugs for mounting a chain guide and mudguard. There are two cut-outs on the down tube that offer space for a bottle and tools. In addition to the slack head angle, the seat tube angle is relatively steep for a hardtail at 76.5°, paired with a reach of 485 mm on the large model.
The seat tubes are short and straight. This means that riders of all sizes should be able to benefit from the long stroke of the OneUp dropper post. The length of the standard dropper is respectable: the S benefits from 150 mm, the M from 180 mm and the L and XL from 210 mm travel.
This is new compared to the predecessor
While the previous model of the TransAM from 2016 still came with 27.5" wheels as standard, the new model comes with 29" rims - even if 27.5" could theoretically be fitted. The chainstay length, which was 418 mm on the 2016 model, can now be customised between 425 and 437 mm.
The new Transition TransAm has a 150 mm suspension fork, with the option of varying between 140 and 160 mm - the previous model had significantly less downhill travel between 130 and 150 mm.
Transition TransAM: Technical data and prices
- Frame and fork: The frame is traditionally a steel frame. The 150 mm suspension fork is the Z2 from Marzocci. The stem is a RaceFace Aeffect R (40 mm).
- Saddle and seat post: The standard seat on the TransAM is the Bel Air 3 from SDG. The seatpost comes from One Up: With 150 mm travel in the S version, 180 mm in the M version and 210 mm in the L and XL sizes.
- Gearstick and drive: Here Transition relies on Sram. The gearing of the new TransAM is the Sram NX Eagle. The crank is also from Sram with DUB standard.
- Brakes: The TransAM brakes with DB8 brakes from Sram with 180/200 mm brake discs.
- Tyres and rims: ST i30 wheels from WTB in 29 inch come as standard. The tyres are from Maxxis: The Assegai 3C EXO+ (2.5'') rolls at the front, the Minion DHRII 3C EXO+ (2.4'') at the rear.
- Weight: The weight of the Transition TransAM is not yet known.
Further technical data according to the manufacturer
- Impellers: 29"
- Suspension fork: 150 mm
- Steering head angle / seat angle: 64° / 76,5°
- Reach: 430-510 mm (S-XL)
- Chain stays (adjustable): 425-437 mm
The price is currently only available in US dollars. We are endeavouring to obtain specific information on dealer prices in Germany.
- Price - complete wheel: 2,599 $ (blue), 2,699 $ (chrome)
- Price - Frame: 799 $ (blue), 899 $ (chrome)
Maik Schröder
Editor
