Ragley TD-1 added to Hotlines Demo Fleet

That's right - I've added one of Brant's new TD-1 Titanium 29er bikes to the fleet - an 18". The TD-1 is designed as a super direct, race orientated hardtail - and is designed to run a rigid only 440mm fork (i.e. a super short, non suspension corrected 29er fork). The frame is nice and long in the top tube, with a slight rearward kink in the seat-tube, making it ideal for powering along in the big ring. Or as a single-speed - and that's how we've set this one up! Having sliding dropouts, it was just begging to be singled - and it's responded really well. One of the big things about riding SS bikes, is keeping your momentum flowing, and the TD-1 is truly amazing at doing this. Once you're past the slightly slower pick up than a 26" wheeled bike (literally a few pedal strokes) this thing just can't help but pick up speed - and keep it! This is a real fast point to point bike - perfect for day long epics, trail centre blasting, XC and marathon racing, etc, etc.



You'll notice from the pics that it has been built up with a spread of Hotlines brands - all solid and dependable kit. You may notice the inclusion of a Ragley Carnegie bar. I've always been intrigued by this type of bar, but always kind of assumed that they'd be love it or hate it - and as I got on so well with a mid-width shallow rise bar, that I wouldn't like it. WRONG! It's strange, you forget about these bars almost straight away - which is only a good thing! They felt natural and really comfortable instantly, and offered a lovely position for climbing. I was a bit worried about they'd be on the downs, and through more techy terrain, but all good once again! They offer you a really 'natural' feeling position. 8 people have ridden the bike since we built it up last week - and without fail, they have all commented on how comfy a position the bars got you into. Only downside for me - an alloy bar on a rigid bike is quite rigid - so it's a good job Uncle Brant has some carbon Carnegie bars on the way!



The Ragley TD-1 frame is available through Hotlines dealers for £1199.99 and is in stock NOW! The Ragley Carnegie bars also retail for £39.99 and are available in flat (as on the demo bike) and a positive and negative rise. carbon versions of this bar are due at the end of June and will retail for £99.99.

For more info see the Hotlines website or call 0131 319 1444.