In Part I of the Milwaukee Bicycle Company 29″er Final review, I took a look at the components that were part of the build, but this post will focus on the ride of the frame.
The Milwaukee Bicycle Company 29″er frame is a lovely example of why folks that dig steel frames dig steel frames, if you catch my drift. This bike is fun to ride, really, that is the bottom line. It makes me want to ride because I know every time I do it will reward me with a comfortable (for a hardtail) ride that is stable, has traction on the climbs, and carves turns without any drama. It just does single speed mountain biking well. Really well.
Make no mistake: The frame has some flex, it isn’t “racer boy” stiff and efficient. It isn’t a precision single track carving machine, and it is not a weight weenie foundation to build a super light project bike from. No- this is a fun riding mountain bike. A bicycle I would choose to ride with buddies, go on explorations with, and ride all day. It is a frame that gets the job done and does it well.
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I could go on, but the point has been made, I think. If you are in the market for a bicycle frame that works, isn’t flashy, but has subtle good looks, can be customized to a degree, and can be hung with your choice of components to fit your budget and tastes, then you will have a hard time finding any peer to Milwaukee Bicycle Company’s 29″er frame. I recommend taking a look and if you need further information regarding this great frame, check out Ben’s Cycle.
Isnt this just a Gunner? Does it come with the tissue like paint too?
@KH: No, but it is made in the same factory, (Waterford’s) and the paint on this example I tested was very durable.
GT,
You mention flex in this review. I’m strongly considering purchasing the MBC 29er OX Platinum but my only reservation is your comment. I weight 170 lbs loaded. I currently ride a steel SS that is not flexy in any way and love it. I’ve ridden my friend’s new Vassago Ver Hauen and love it, but I don’t think I will be able to get one any time soon. But the MBC seems very similar to the Jabberwocky. How would you compare the Vassago and the MBC?
@SS: Well, I really would think your current single speed flexes somewhat, or I would guess that it would ride like a brick and be terrible on longer rides. Really…..some folks get to over-thinking when it comes to “flex” in a structure. It had better flex somewhat, or besides not riding well, it will cause other problems, like failures in other components, or in terms of the rider.
So, I am going to assume you mean to say you have sensed nothing negative in the way your bike currently rides.
The ironic thing about your comparison question is that my friend, Captain Bob and I were just discussing that very comparison today. We both agreed that the old steel Jabberwocky is very similar in feel and performance to the MBC Waterford built frames.