In Lisbon, in the US state of Wisconsin, Jim Day builds spectacular steel mountain bikes. Before he decided to set up his own bike company, Quarry, Day earned his living by developing suspension systems, wheelsets and brakes. Innovations such as the 32-inch wheel standard on the new Rage Bait Hardtail are what drive this inventor. His bikes are characterised by striking details, such as special custom yokes and his own flex concept. The Quarry Rage Bait 32 is Jim Day’s latest creation.
Conclusion
Not only does the Rage Bait 32 have a really cool name, but this hardtail from the small American manufacturer also looks absolutely smashing. In any case, the Quarry really makes you wonder how the flex of the steel rear triangle, the generous front suspension travel and the large wheels will perform on the trail. The range of geometry options is mind-blowing! - Jan Timmermann, BIKE editor
The Quarry Rage Bait 32 in detail
- Intended use: Trail
- Suspension travel: 120–140 mm
- Wheel size: 32 inches
- Frame material: steel
- Weight: N/A
- Price range: approx. 2,120 euros
- Special features: 16 frame sizes, made in the USA
A small label, great attention to detail
As an industry insider, Quarry’s Jim Day brings a wealth of experience to the development process. He uses the finite element method, a computer-based calculation technique, to precisely calculate stresses and deformations in the material of his frames. All frames are designed, manufactured and painted in-house. CNC-milled dropouts and yokes give the steel bikes a modern touch.
Each frame is hand-built to order. The lead time for the Quarry Rage Bait 32 is between eight and ten weeks. One of the company’s specialities is its exceptionally high-quality wet paint finishes with intricately designed details. The head tube logos are just as much a delight for enthusiasts. Crafted from cast tin and featuring accents of real wood, they serve as a timeless testament to Day’s craftsmanship.
A message to the haters
Jim Day is fascinated by the new 32-inch wheel size. He designed the Quarry Rage Bait 32 specifically to provoke the critics and spark debate about the new standard. The 32-inch hardtail is based on a 4130 chromoly steel frame and accommodates suspension forks with travel ranging from 120 to 140 millimetres.
As the availability of suitable components is still limited at present, Day has opted for a used Fox Podium upside-down suspension fork on his Rage Bait 32. Combined with the large wheels and 2.4-inch-wide tyres, this hardtail is designed to roll particularly smoothly over roots and stones.
The Quarry Rage Bait 32 is available in no fewer than 16 frame sizes. The reach measurements are finely graduated in five-millimetre increments. Across all sizes, the chainstays measure 468 millimetres in length and the head angle is a flat 65 degrees.
A gusset reinforces the short head tube. At the same time, Quarry incorporates special flex points made from flexible material into the dropouts and yoke, which are designed to provide the rear triangle with three times as much vertical compliance as a standard design. The design promises greater comfort on rough terrain without compromising on horizontal stiffness.
Other features include a UDH derailleur hanger, a bolted bottom bracket and a rear axle compliant with the Boost standard. The icing on the cake is a painted ‘angry’ emoji, in keeping with the ‘Rage Bait’ name.
What do you think: are you going to let the new 32-inch standard rile you up, or would you rather try out a 32-inch bike like the Quarry Rage Bait 32 for yourself before making up your mind? Let us know in the comments!
Jan Timmermann
Editor
