No gears, no suspension - the American 29-inch specialists have boldly dispensed with attributes in their flagship hardtail without which mountain bikes would never have existed - and instead have opted for avant-garde design. There is no doubt that the Air 9 with its elegantly curved tubes is a masterpiece of modern frame design. Above all, the broadly profiled down tube with skilfully integrated lettering not only guarantees high torsional rigidity. The rigid carbon fork with aerodynamically shaped fork blades flows smoothly and seamlessly into the head tube. The frame and fork look as if they have been cast from a single mould. The Niner conveys pure fascination as soon as you pick it up. Just over eight kilos - you immediately want to get on and sprint off. Thought, done.
Compared to the other hardtails, the Niner accelerates like a Formula 1 car. But then the thumb reaches into the void. Oh yes, singlespeed. Too bad, because both bike and rider crave speed. At least on tarmac, gravel and forest trails. The riding position is pleasantly sporty and the wide handlebars give you control. The very short geometry makes the Niner ride lively, almost a little nervous. Uphill, the front rears up early when seated. But sitting down, you have no chance of mastering steep climbs anyway - there are no small gears. So, get up and start pedalling. This is where the Niner really comes into its own: The short chainstays provide almost unbelievable traction. "Pedal - damn it" - with the motivational slogan on the top tube constantly in view, you fire the bike up to the highest point of the test course. But then the fun stops. You rumble hard and mercilessly over hill and dale. The stiff chassis and rigid fork are unforgiving. Braking where you would normally just pull over, swerving instead of holding on - line choice takes on a new meaning with the Niner.
MY CONCLUSION
No-frills design object for purists. The lack of suspension fork and gears severely limits the range of use.
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