Ghost Riot Trail AL Essential

The 2021 ‘Riot Trail AL Essential’ model from Ghost offers a comprehensive range of features, making it suitable for both challenging trails and longer rides. The price for this model is 2,599 EUR.

The bike’s frame is made from robust RIOT AL, which is renowned for its durability and stability. Braking is provided by the Shimano BR-MT520 system with 180 mm disc brakes, operated by Shimano BL-MT501 brake levers. At the front, a Shimano SM-RT66 brake disc with a diameter of 180 mm is fitted, ensuring reliable braking performance.

The bike’s gear system is based on the Shimano XT RD-M8100 with 12 speeds, controlled by the Shimano Deore SL-M6100 shifter. This combination enables precise and rapid gear changes. The fork is a Fox 34 Float Rhythm with 140 mm of travel, whilst the rear shock is a Fox Float DPS Performance LV EVOL, also with 140 mm of travel. These suspension components offer excellent damping and control on uneven terrain.

The bottom bracket is the Shimano BB-MT800, and the crankset consists of the Shimano FC-MT510 with 32 teeth. The cassette is a Shimano SLX CS-M7100 with a 10–51-tooth range, which allows for a wide gear ratio range. The drivetrain is completed by the Shimano Deore CN-M6100 chain.

The handlebars are Ground Fiftyone with a diameter of 31.8 mm and a width of 780 mm (for sizes S–L) or 780 mm/40 mm (for size XL). The grips are WTB Wafel, which offer good grip and comfort. The stem is also a Ground Fiftyone with a diameter of 31.8 mm.

The rims are Rodi Tryp 30, measuring 584x30 mm (for size S) or 622x30 mm (for sizes M–XL), and have 32 spoke holes. The tyres are Maxxis Minion DHF 3C MaxxTerra Exo 2.3 at the front and Maxxis Aggressor Exo 2.3 at the rear, both renowned for their traction and durability. The front hub is a Fastace DF813 measuring 15x110 mm and the rear hub is a Fastace DR2116B measuring 12x148 mm, fitted with DT Swiss 2.0 spokes.

The saddle is a WTB Volt, mounted on a Limotec Alpha 1 seatpost. The seatpost has a diameter of 34.9 mm and a rise of 125 mm (for size S), 150 mm (for size M) and 170 mm (for sizes L/XL). The saddle is clamped in place by a GW seat clamp with a diameter of 38.0 mm.

Overall, the Riot Trail AL Essential offers a balanced combination of high-quality components and well-thought-out design, making it suitable for both ambitious amateur cyclists and experienced mountain bikers.