Redline 2007 : Monocog 29″ 853
March 11th, 2006 by CloxxkiYes, that’s right, not even have the first Monocog 29er bikes made it to shops, or Redline is looking at the future, sharing thoughts with us, and asking for feedback.
First let me tell you what Redline asked me to communicate. The Monocog 29er bikes have been held up an extra 1-2 weeks because of last-minute improvements to the frame design. Early samples had less than perfect looking gussets as some may have noticed, and this has since been addressed.
The new sample, Craig@Redline writes me, is looking much better, and “I’m pushing for the first batch to leave this factory by next weekend”.
Now for the exciting stuff… Redline is looking at bringing us a Monocog 29″ 853. Yes, that’s lightweight Reynolds 853 tubing! Most probably it will feature it’s own unique geometry, totally different from the Monocog29er, with fancy sliding dropouts and (optional?) derailer hanger. Redline appreciates our feedback on choice of brakes, do we want disc-only seatstays, or the option there to run V-brakes?
The Monocog 29″ 853 likely will come as both a complete singlespeed bike with disc brakes and as a frame+fork. Nothing is certain at this point, obviosuly, we’re talking 2007 plans here.
For a clean look with minimal cable stops, the 29″ 853 frame could come without front derailer cable stops, and thus be either singlespeed or 1×9.
So, your feedback is appreciated, do you want super-clean custom-steel-style disc-only seatstays on your Monocog 29″ 853, or the option (be it bolt-on or welded) to run V-brakes for low-tech and weight savings? Is a SS/1×9 a preferable frame design, or would you prefer just the sliding dropout and no option for gears?
Redline, before the first 29″ bike is sold, is working hard on supporting us even more in the future with higher-end products!
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I go for versatility over clean lines. I’d like to see the Monocog 853 with a derailleur hanger of some sort and V-brake mounts. It’s these features that convinced me to buy the Soma Juice that I currently ride (with gears and V-brakes).
Options
Options
Options
…Besides, disc brakes and singlespeeds are just fads.
I think the bike industry needs to see that the sliding dropout that Paragon sells (On-One, VooDoo, Kona, custom…all use something similar)is the way to go. It allows the most flexibility and I think works really well. Why not just make it disc brake and v-brake compatable. I have a Dremel and I know what I like so if you want sales make this a bike that will do everything and anything! Plus I kind of want to try to run a disc and linear pull brakes in the rear so I can decide how fast I want to stop.
If this becomes a fad then I should at least get some credit!
Removable v-brake canti studs provide a nice solution. A bit more expensive, but they allow more options. Let’s face it, the Monocog 853 (like the Karate Monkey) can be another bang-for-the-buck quality bike.
Also, if we’re talking sliding dropouts, a derailleur hanger would be just a matter of including the dropout (or making available as an accessory) with the frame.
I dig the 1×9 (1×8, 1×7, whatever…..) option. If you’re not a racer, then a single-chainring option is usually sufficient. I run a 1×8 on my Dos Niner and may upgrade to a 2×8 for some 24 hour racing this summer, but that’s the exception for me.
I’d like to see an option for V-brakes.
SS or gear geared options are nice as well.
I Live in Flagstaff, AZ and would not buy this bike without the option of V-brakes, they’re just my style…Just let me get my hands on one first!
I like the 1x idea, as I just converted my 292 to a 1×9. Less moving parts, less weight, and I don’t miss the other 2 cogs at all. I am probably the exception though.
Not an exception by any means. I know several riders who have gone away from triple rings to double or single set ups. The mindset is that unless you’re a DH rider, racer, or riding on the road, that big ring doesn’t do much for you. Aside from breaking teeth, getting bent, reducing your ground clearance, etc…
The cycling world is full of exceptions. More power to us oddballs!
I prefer the clean ss with sliding disc dropouts.
Gotta have the v brakes. Redline is all about basic, simple, AND CHEAP. Discs are not a must, why force them on someone? 1 by 9 would be cool as long as the chainline is good. The bike sounds prett sweet
The only bikes I’m looking at are ones that can be set up both geared and SS w/ cantilevers. I’ve recently discovered the Rohloff Speedhub, so maybe I don’t really need a derailleur hanger. I’ll probably get a SS, then set it up geared later.
i’ll buy one if clean/SS only