Twenty Nine Inches got a hold of a sneak peek photo last December of the special 853 Reynolds tubed “Hodala” XXIX frame and we now have obtained some further information regarding this rare model.
The frame idea was the brainchild of Raleigh marketing and brand manager, Brian Fornes who came up with the graphics idea and had the frames made in a very limited number to support a grassroots single speed-centric team known as the Raleigh Factory Riders. Currently there are no plans afoot to make this available to the public, but Brian said, “…….. I think we could be easily convinced if there was enough interest.”
“To the bottom!”
Brian also gave us the backround on the name “Hodala” and how to interpret the graphics. “Hodala is a drinking cheer used by our overseas vendors. It literally means “to the bottom” which seems appropriate not only for putting one back…but for riding/racing your bike. As it always feels good to drain yourself and leave absolutely everything on the trail. I’ve started a small “race team” called Hodala here in the PacNW. It’s primarily a squad of SSCX riders, that also hop on SS MTB, do some track with a touch of road splashed in there…so it’s almost all SS. The focus is fun…and trying to lighten the mood at any events we attend and try and make the sport a little more approachable.”
Think you’d like one of these? Well, start pestering your local Raleigh dealer. As Brian said, if he hears enough from dealers and individuals that want this, it could become a reality. We have no idea how much this might run, or if it got the green light, when you could get it. We do know that the 853 Raleigh XXIX Pro rides really nice. So we also expect the single speed version would be equally as nice in that respect.
Stay tuned for any further updates…………
Twenty Nine Inches would like to thank Brian Fornes for the images here and for contributing to this report.
I used to dig Raleigh when Tomac raced for them, then they completely dropped their racing program. Now that they have one again, all of their cool frames are alcoholic-centric. Sad.
“Hodala” should be a downhill team! To the bottom…….
Steel is still gauged as high standard for a sweet ride. It’s great to see to this day of high tech materials we didn’t forget where it all started. Raleigh defintly gets a thumbs up !
Not a SS rider, but that’s definitely a cool bike. Love the steel. They already have the XXIX Pro, so why not a SS version of it?
Raleigh’s done a great job the last few years. Their line of steel road bikes are fantastic. The mountain bikes are looking good too. Discreet and classy logos. Interesting, customish, colors and graphics. Lots of steel! I’m really glad to see that venerable brand peel away from the rebadged Giant masses that has sort of come to define the value-oriented end of the bike market. Classic and stylish, yet rugged and simple, is a good niche for Raleigh.
No so much a new bike as so much a new decal. Gted, is this a new geometry? What did Raleigh change other than the decal to make me want to get one?
Hey Xchoke! What’s wrong with a little alcohol?
The “hopped up” schemes are merely for the limited edition stuff that I have a lot of fun with. The rest of our bikes are much like John B noted… “discreet and classy” which is more of the image we’re going for. But to deny the fact a lot of us (me in particular) kick one back after a good ride/race, would be silly (especially for me).
Rooster…no new geometry on this one. Its the same as our stock XXIX…the only real difference is the tubing being used. Which can have a pretty noticable affect on the ride.
I would buy one for sure if they made it for us mere mortals.
@Brian
I sure like the geometry on the XXIX. Short stays, good TT, nice, friendly angles. Pretty good all- a-rounder, I bet.
grannygear
Straight Edge riders have a bee in their bonnet in Raleigh’s name and paint scheme choices.
If there was an edge themed bike I’d make room for it
Straight edge ruined my hardcore already, please Raleigh, don’t let it ruin my mountain bikes too!
I really do need one! hehe!