In the case of the Ibis, this is a mistake. Nimble and playful - this is what characterises the bright yellow speedster, despite all preconceptions. The Californians imbue the Ripley LS with these characteristics with the help of a moderate reach, a relatively steep steering angle and lightweight carbon wheels. The firm suspension also contributes to this. Sporty riders in particular benefit from plenty of pop and counter-pressure from the suspension elements. On tougher terrain, the Ibis Ripley LS This means less comfort and safety - the sensitive Fox Factory fork is slightly superior to the rear suspension. On rougher descents, the Ripley requires an experienced rider who knows how to handle the stiff bike. The wide tyres, which should be ridden with low air pressure (max. 1.3 bar) to make the most of their advantages, ensure safety on difficult terrain. The 2.6 tyres offer a good compromise between plus and normal tyres. The typical plus-size disadvantages, such as spongy handling and imprecise steering behaviour, hardly come into play with this width. For those who still prefer less volume: The 2.6 tyres are only one equipment option, the bike is also available with narrower 29er tyres. The DW-Link rear suspension works sensitively when climbing and remains pleasantly smooth when pedalling. You only need to reach for the platform lever late on. On technical climbs, the middle stage of the shock offers plenty of traction and bobbing freedom. At just under 2700 grams, the frame is quite heavy, but its stiffness is impressive.
Wolfgang Watzke, BIKE tester and photographer:
Uphill, the Ibis Ripley LS is a real rocket, the acceleration surprised me. I was happy to use the option of setting the fork and shock completely rigid on the long climbs around Arosa. However, I would opt for narrower tyres, as the slightly bumpy feel of the voluminous 2.6 tyres bothered me on the downhills.
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Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
