Is Evil Wreckoning/GX I9 Hydra Worth Buying? [Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra Review]

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Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra

• Price: $7,299
• Category: Off-road bicycle
• Frame: Carbon
• Gear: 1×12
• Tires: 29×2.5 “

What We Like About It: Steep aggressive angles rampage through off-road mountain trails, taking you on a more exciting ride.

What we don’t like about it: The overpriced price tag will make many people hesitate.

Rating (4.7/5)

Introduction

Do you want to become a devilish destruction crew? Like Satan wielding the scythe of vengeance to conquer those hellish winding paths. Perhaps the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra, the main character of today’s presentation, can satisfy such crazy ideas.

The Destroyer returns from hell with a super long travel of over 166mm to combat the hissing of the mountain roads. Made from rubber, the carbon body burns with the fire of vengeance and is capable of absorbing the wrath of the earth. 29er tires are wrapped in an extremely vibrant tread pattern, and the hard shell can resist all attacks and intrusions from debris and branches.

Whether it’s a winding scree descent or a bumpy ascent, the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra maintains a high level of agility and uncompromising toughness.

We have had two months of experience measuring the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra. To make the results more informative for you, here we will elaborate on the performance, key features, components, and specifications of the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra while riding and other versions of the series.

If you want to learn more about Evil versions, please refer to our review.

Learn More: Evil Offering / GX I9 Hydra-Explosive Riding Experience

Descending

Wreckoning is the representative model of the Evil series with big wheels. Three months of testing in Stromlo Forest Park confirmed this amazing presence. It is used as a world-class multi-purpose recreational sports facility for recreational and professional users. Stromlo Forest Park has a purpose-built event pavilion and our choice was a 2.5km grass cross-country running track.

The descent was destined to be bumpy, after all the gravel and leaves were spreading on the road. However, the Maxxis Minion DHF EXO TR didn’t disappoint me, as the wide tires maintained a great grip to keep me stable for the rest of the trip. I have to say that the UD carbon is the most distinctive feature of the Evil series. It has a lightweight volume that traditional aluminum can’t have, and not only that, it also greatly reduces the vibration caused by ground impact.

And the 170mm of extra travel is what makes the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra look so good on other bikes. As I descended halfway down the mountain, a bulge of dirt shook my bike up and down. Luckily, the fork, the RockShox ZEB Ultimate, was a great cushion in the process. With the lightweight dropper design under the seat post (125mm of travel), I didn’t feel any extremely painful bumps.

I think the SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed is the core highlight of the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra. 1x is a much simpler system to operate, requiring only simple manual paddles for quick shifts. This is why I passed Tom in the second half of the race. Of course, if you don’t think the GX system is for you, you can also choose the XX1 or XO1 system. That’s what makes the evil series so special.

Climbing

In fact, as a full-suspension bike, how well it dampens vibration is probably the most important factor in its appeal to you. Of course, this also includes good looks and a pleasant riding experience.

The presence of the Rockshox ZEB Ultimate Charger 2 RC2 is a good illustration of the power of shock absorption. It dampens the vibrations that threaten you while also eliminating the thumping sound of collisions with the mountain. Designed for aggressive trail riding, the 29-inch front tire has the advantage of being stable and light, making my trail riding a lot less obstructive.

Halfway up the hill, we came across a fallen willow tree. It was so large that it was in the middle of the road and I had to apply emergency braking, the TRP DH-R Evo hydraulic discs came to the fore and I was amazed at how fast and responsive the emergency stop was, plus the Maxxis Minion DHF EXO TR’s extremely prominent surface was able to rub against the ground which was an interesting experience.

Of course, the protruding geometry is perhaps what makes the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra stand out above other trail bikes. And the 641mm stack is a bold test of height for the masses. I can easily straddle the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra and maintain a stable stance. Additionally, 77° of seat tube angle is the most extreme there is. This is also the rider’s favorite angle. I was able to get a firm grip on the bike and was able to distribute as much weight as possible to the rear tire for the last 100 meters. Finally, I reached the crest of the hill comfortably, overlooking the view below.

Main Features

Frame

The bull-like appearance of the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra is a very attractive feature, more wild and unrestrained.

UD carbon is Evil’s secret weapon. It keeps the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra’s extremely light frame, and with the extra high travel of the 170mm fork, it allows you to maintain a more stable ascent and descent.

The brakes, the shock absorbers behind the coils, and the suspension are matched with each other to form a perfect body architecture. Likewise, the internal cables are clear and tidy, without creating complicated cable tangles. This is very satisfying to me.

Not only that, you do not have to worry about the water problem. In the base, you can also add a bracket to solve the problem of drinking water during the race.

Geometry

Geometry, the invisible configuration of the bike, plays a crucial role in its travel. The Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra has its considerations in this regard. The extremely steep seat tube angle (77°) is a unique advantage of the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra. The compact seat tube setup allows you to maintain a comfortable seating position while climbing and you don’t have to worry about the front tire being unstable.

To achieve a balance on top of the head tube setup, the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra opted for a loose setup. This strikes a balance between uphill and downhill. Of course, the choice of wheelbase for the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra was also a deliberate one. 1218mm in length is still a moderate angle that allows for smooth bodywork while maintaining agile steering.

Components and Specifications

SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed Drivetrain

The 1x system is the most popular and my favorite drivetrain configuration on the market. Unlike the 2x and 3x, it is much simpler to operate. I only need to flick a spring to make a quick shift, and the process takes less than three seconds. What is also undeniable is the stability SRAM brings to mountain riding, and it has a much more adaptable drivability than Shimano. Whether it is winding flowing trails or bumpy climbing, it can show the perfect riding feeling.

Of course, you can also choose the GX or XX1 as your alternative option. Because the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra is interchangeable in terms of the drivetrain. You can choose the right drivetrain for the road.

RockShox ZEB Ultimate Fork

I have to admit, the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra is the best in terms of damping. I’m confident in its ability to get through the mountains and off-road. This confidence comes from the Rockshox ZEB Ultimate it comes with.

Similarly, the 170mm of super high travel is paired with the newly upgraded Charger 2.1 RC2 dampers. The bearings rotate to provide the ultimate damping experience for the rider, without worrying about the pain and tingling that can be caused by rock drops.

The Rockshox ZEB Ultimate’s 44mm offset is also a major selling point. This makes up for the lack of steering with the wide tires, and the smaller the offset, the shorter the trail, giving you the confidence to overtake in corners.

SRAM GX Hydraulic Disc Brake

“SRAM is probably made for off-road riding” is Tom’s most intuitive assessment of the SRAM brand. As an aside, it is an experienced XC racer with ten years of experience. In a few months of riding, I could feel the braking experience of the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra with the hydraulic discs.

Unlike traditional mechanical braking, Hydraulic Disc has faster, more responsive braking. Compared to the handbrake, I didn’t have to apply much force to make a quick stop. Even when I was faced with a muddy road after heavy rain, the Hydraulic Disc still showed strong braking ability.

Of course, a good braking effect also means a relatively high price. If you accept this price, its braking performance will not disappoint your expectations.

Maxxis Minion DHF EXO TR Tires

Tires are the soul of a bike and the object of attention for many bike riders. Perhaps on this point, Maxxis Minion DHF EXO TR is not going to let you down. Because its 29×2.5” tire size is a unique advantage in off-road descents. Look closely and you’ll see a lot of bumps spreading across the tire’s surface, which is its secret killer. The rough and uneven surface of this tire has a very strong grip that clings to the ground and provides the ultimate stable bodywork.

If you want to have a sharp and fast speed in the final sprint, try the big tires of Maxxis Minion DHF EXO TR. This tire is fast turning while maintaining a stable body.

Of course, the Maxxis Minion DHF EXO TR cannot be ignored as well as the puncture resistance technology, after all, the most annoying thing about mountain bikes is the occurrence of flat tires. This is also a significant expense. The Maxxis Minion DHF EXO TR has performed satisfactorily in a few months of riding.

RockShox Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate Shock

I’ve always been pleasantly surprised by the feel of the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra in terms of damping. In addition to the ultra-high 170mm of travel for your race, there is also the RockShox Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock to add protection to your ride. The layered Super Deluxe Coil is strong and reliable, and independent high-speed and low-speed compression adjustments eliminate “crosstalk”. So you can adjust the vibration to the exact performance you want.

Other Versions Of Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra

To give you more options, we have tested other Evil models in our lineup for a certain amount of time to be objective and fair. These include the Evil Following / GX I9 Hydra and the Evil Insurgent X01 I9 Hydra.

Evil Following / GX I9

If you are new to off-roading, then the Evil Following / GX I9 may be a better fit. After all, it has the right amount of front and rear travel for entry-level riders (130mm front and 120mm rear). For a short 5km trail like the one in Silver Star Park, it’s still more than enough to handle.

Evil Insurgent X01 I9 Hydra

The Evil Insurgent XO1 drivetrain configuration predestined the Evil Insurgent X01 I9 Hydra for an extraordinary mission. It is the master of endurance racing and the preferred choice of many race competitors. Not limited to one tire choice, 27.5er and 29er tires are available to meet the expectations of a wider range of people.

What we like about it?

1. UD carbon frame keeps the body extremely light.
2. Super high fork travel is enough to deal with all kinds of explosive roads.
3. Shock Absorber Deluxe Coil keeps the ultimate stable body against rough trails.
4. Faster and more agile hydraulic discs enable braking even on muddy roads.
5. The SRAM GX drivetrain increases traction while maintaining light weight.

What we don’t like about it?

1. The components don’t perform as well as expected for the expensive price.
2. Too sparse a selection of colors.

FAQs

What is the price of the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra?

The Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra is priced at $7,299.

What is the body material of the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra?

The Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra’s body material is carbon.

What is the gear of the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra?

The Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra gear is 1×12.

What is the tire size of the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra?

The Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra has a tire size of 29×2.5″.

Component sizing	small	medium	Large	X-large
Sizing	5’3″-5’8″	5’6″0-6’0″	5’10”-6’4″	6’2″-6’4+

Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra Specs

Build

Frame	Wreckoning 166mm of travel, UD Carbon, Full Internal Cable Routing, SB+ 157mm Rear Spacing, Integrated Chain Guide, Threaded BBBB Standard: BSA, 73mm, Threaded
Fork	Rockshox ZEB Ultimate, Charger 2.1 RC2, 170mm Travel, 44mm Offset
Rear Shock	RockShox Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate, Trunnion 205×65, ML 320
Bottom Bracket	73mm Threaded
Headset	Cane Creek 40 Series ZS Integrated Tapered Headset – Cups: ZS44/28.6 (Upper) and ZS62/40(Lower), Bearing: 36° x 45° – 41mm (Upper) and 36° x 45° – 52mm ( Lower) ZN40 Zinc Coated, Crown Race: 28.6mm x 36° Integrated (Upper) and 40mm x 36° Press Fit (Lower)
Stem	Evil 12 Gauge Stem, Length: 35mm
Handlebar	Evil Boomstick Carbon, Backsweep: 8°, Upsweep: 5° Clamp: 35mm, Rise: 35mm, Width: 810mm
Saddle	WTB Volt Medium (142mm) Width Chromoly Saddle
Seatpost	SRAM AXS Reverb, 30.9, S: 125mm, M: 150mm, L/XL: 170mm
Grips	Evil Palmela Handerson lock-on

Groupset

Rear Derailleur	SRAM X01 Eagle AXS, 12 sp
Front Derailleur	Single Ring Only
Crank	SRAM X01 Eagle DUB, SUPERBOOST+, 170mm, Direct Mount 32t, 56.5mm Chainline, Lunar
Shifters	SRAM Eagle AXS Controller
Cassette	SRAM XG-1295-B1 Eagle, 10-52T, 10,12,14,16,18,21,24,28,32,36,42,52
Chain	SRAM XX1 Eagle w/ Powerlock
Brakes	Hydraulic Disc

Wheels

Rims	166mm
Tires	Front: Maxxis Minion DHF EXO TR, 29×2.5, Rear: Maxxis Minion DHR EXO TR, 29×2.3

Video

Comparison Table

Bicycles	Price	Drivetrain	Tires	Front fork Travel	Click view
Trek Remedy 9.8	$6399	SRAM GX Eagle, 12 speed	27.5×2.50”	Front 160mmRear 150mm	Click view
Pivot Switchblade Ride GX/X01	$6799	SRAM X01 Eagle 12-Speed	29 x 2.5″	Front 160mm	Click view
Framed Foothill Carbon – Mountain 29″	$3999.95	SRAM GX Eagle 12-Speed	29 x 2.4″	Front 150mm	Click view
GT Force Carbon Pro LE	$6350	SRAM GX Eagle 12-Speed	29 x 2.5″	Front 170mmRear 160mm	Click view

Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra vs Trek Remedy 9.8

If you’re a stickler for weight, the Trek Remedy 9.8 may disappoint. 29.6 pounds doesn’t give it much of an edge over the competition in the mountain bike category.

But the good thing is that compared to the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra, the Trek Remedy 9.8 will favor those who are fans of smaller tires in their choice of tires. The 27.5-inch Bontrager SE5 Team Issue tires will give you more agile steering in the race. As for the front and rear fork travel, which is a concern for mountain bikers, you will also be satisfied (160mm front and 150mm rear). You don’t have to worry about the damage to your arms on the bumps.

Overall, the Trek Remedy 9.8 is more suitable for those who are new to the industry. The better price will also save you a lot of money in terms of maintenance and repair.

Learn More: Trek Remedy 9.8 Review-Nimble Full-suspension Mountain Bike

Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra vs Pivot Switchblade Ride GX/X01

The Pivot Switchblade Ride GX/X01 has the same carbon body as the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra and 29-inch tire specs. It’s hard to tell the difference from the outside, except for the sparse color options.

The difference is that the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra has a lot of freedom of choice when it comes to drivetrain systems. If you are looking for the best value for money, then the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra drivetrain will meet all your daily training requirements. Of course, with the cheaper price comes increased body weight.

If you’re aiming for the next World Cup endurance race, I’d recommend the high-performance Evil Insurgent XO1, which is of course also available on the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra. piston configuration.

As we all know, the number of pistons also determines the braking ability, and the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra’s strong braking ability will keep you stable even in the snow. Not only that, but the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra is also the choice that fits the most.

Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra vs Framed Foothill Carbon Mountain 29″

In our actual test, we found that the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra and Framed Foothill Carbon Mountain on the same road surface, there is no significant difference in the speed, which is also 28mph. So you don’t have to worry about their performance.

But in terms of travel, perhaps the 150mm fork makes the Framed Foothill Carbon Mountain 29″ a little less impressive. At the same time, the Framed Foothill Carbon Mountain 29″ does not have the same freedom of choice in transmission as the Evil Wreckoning/ GX I9 Hydra.

This may not be the case for people who have adapted to the evil series a piece of good news.

If you have high requirements for body components and want a wide range of freedom of choice in terms of speed, then the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra is still the way to go.

Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra vs GT Force Carbon Pro LE

The GX may be the master of the all-around field, but the all-around function can only present a mediocre posture, but the XO1 is the most powerful king on the mountain enduro.

Best suited for enduro and aggressive trail riding, stainless steel hardware, full alloy pulley cage for extra durability. In addition, steel pulley tire bearings for a balance of weight and durability. The GT Force Carbon Pro LE is built on the Evil Insurgent XO1 standard and is perhaps even better suited for mountain enduro than the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra.

But don’t forget that the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra has the performance of an optional drivetrain. So if you don’t mind paying a little more than the original price, the Evil Wreckoning / GX I9 Hydra can be replaced with the Evil Insurgent XO1.

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