Planned as a 2016 Model, the VIPA Trail has been in development for several months and a couple of running prototypes have started to hit our trails for feedback and further design improvements.
Following on the success of the full carbon VIPA and the recent Team Issue with dedicated 1x chainstays, this new frame is set to be an exciting addition to Momsen Bike’s ever expanding range for the 2016 season.
Final specification and geometry are still being confirmed ahead of the 2016 Dealer presentations, but what we do know for now is the following:
- Increased rear wheel travel to better cope with bigger hits
- Plusher suspension tune for increased traction and small bump efficiency
- Lower BB to better carve single track and rail berms
- Production frames won’t have Momsen Bike’s integrated top tube bag
- Slacker head angle to make the bike big-mountain friendly
- Longer top tube for better reach when running a shorter stem
- Increased tire clearance to be able to run wider tires with bigger knobblies (Note: prototypes use existing moulds from the Team Issue, but production will see an entire new rear end)
- Internal routing for dropper seat posts
- Optimized for 120mm – 140mm forks
First Ride
I’ve spend some time on a large running prototype on Cape Town trails and can only say that Momsen Bikes have a potential winner on their hands. It manages a fine balance between a trail ripper and all day, all mountain bike through it’s lower bottom bracket, longer top tube and reach, and bang up to date angles.
Handling is sharp with a lively ride, coupled with great traction. The lower BB allows it to rip around berms without causing pedal strikes on every bend. The longer top tube means that I could comfortably run a shorter stem with wider bars and not feel cramped or run out of breathing space on longer rides.
Once at the top the lively ride and sharp handling makes for a super fun and rewarding ride. It doesn’t take long to realise that the VIPA Trail can be enjoyed with a slammed dropper post. I’ve run a 120mm Revelation and 140mm Pike on the bike and it is comfortable with both. The extra burl and confidence the Pike brings is not let down by the bike’s rear suspension.
I am sure the versatility of the frame will suit many local trail riders to the T and with a well thought-out component choice this bike could be many things to many riders. 2016 already looks promising.
Please note that the complete bicycle as pictured features a custom build and does not represent final specification or OE parts. Decals on the bicycle is unique to this prototype and does not represent what the production model will look like. The Momsen logo on the top tube features a “camouflage” design idea borrowed from the car industry to keep prying eyes guessing.
