More model maintenance than revolutionary innovation: Rocky Mountain presents the 2018 edition of its Vertex race hardtail. The reach has been increased in all frame sizes, the head angle has been slackened a little (69.5 degrees) and the wheelbase has been shortened (1101 mm for size M). None of these are radical changes to the geometry, but rather cosmetic changes. Here is an overview of the geo-data of the new Rocky Mountain Vertex:
The Canadians have also slimmed down a few grams on the highest-quality Vertex frame, which forms the basis of the 90 model and is also available as a frameset. According to Rocky Mountain, the frame in size M should weigh 1150 grams. The new Boost rear triangle has a lighter thru-axle for bolting, and a new nut should make it easier to use. The new Vertex fits 29-inch tyres up to 2.3 inches wide, plus tyres in 27.5x2.8 inches can also be used. The cable routing has been optimised and the openings in the head tube and bottom bracket have been enlarged to make changing cables easier. The Vertex is approved for suspension forks with up to 100 mm travel.
Also new: you can ride Vario seatposts with internally routed cables together with Shimano Di2 drivetrains and side-swing derailleurs. This closes Rocky Mountain at the Vertex It is generally not enough to ride a front derailleur and double cranks. Nevertheless, most models come with a single drivetrain. In terms of seating comfort, Rocky Mountain continues to rely on the flex of 27.2 mm diameter carbon seatposts. There are no super-thin seat stays or elastomers in the rear frame triangle.
Vertex 2018: models and prices
There will be three Vertex carbon models from 9.7 kilos and a frame set (2400 euros). Rocky Mountain has adjusted its bike designations for the 2018 Vertex range. The previous Vertex 970 RSL is now the Vertex Carbon 70, while higher specification numbers continue to indicate higher-quality equipment. The top model - the Vertex Carbon 90 - is said to weigh 9.7 kilos and costs 4900 euros. We find the Vertex Carbon 70 exciting, both visually and in terms of equipment. For 3100 euros, you get a 1x12 Sram GX Eagle groupset, Shimano XT brakes and a Fox 32 SC Performance fork. This bike is said to weigh exactly 10.0 kilos. Below this is the Vertex Carbon 50 for 2700 euros with 2x11 Shimano XT/SLX drivetrain and Rock Shox Reba RL fork. Weight: 11.1 kg. All new Vertex models will be available immediately from Rocky Mountain dealers.
