Forbidden Dreadnought GX Review
- MSRP: $7,299
- Travel: 154mm rear, 170mm front
- Frame: Carbon
- Tires: Front29 “x2.5”, Rear 27.5 “x2.4”, Rate Control Linkage system compatible with Rear 29 “x2.4”
- Drivetrain: SRAM GX Eagle 1 × 12
- Brakes. SRAM Code RSC Hydraulic Disc
- Seatpost: Dropper
What we like about it: It’s a veritable, non-terrain picking, woodland enduro vehicle.
What we don’t like about it: Some people say it costs too much, and if you’re not short of money that’s certainly not its downside.
Rating (4.9/5)
Many warships in history have been named after Dreadnought. Therefore, the choice of this name is a testament to Forbidden’s definition of it, which is to be brave and fearless without fear of any terrain.
Its “familiar brother” Druid, the all-rounder, blurs the line between traditional forest tracks and enduro, and it continues to do the same. It also allows the rider to face climbs and descents without fear, but more importantly, it is also a master of enduro. Undoubtedly, it can support you to have fun on the forest road without any fear and without feeling tired.
The “HIGH PIVOT WITCHCRAFT” keeps Dreadnought users especially calm in the face of rugged forest roads, and the optimized shock system keeps the rider awake at all times. If you experience it, you will understand that it is not just a random combination of high-end components, but a carefully designed gift from Forbidden. It will take you back to your childhood and make you suddenly understand that the boy has never changed, only his toys are more high-end.
Here’s a breakdown of the Forbidden Dreadnought GX ride, key features, components, and specs, as well as other versions.
If you want to know more, please remember to follow us, your attention is my greatest motivation to update.
Forbidden Druid GX Review – What Makes Forbidden A Big Hit?
Forbidden Dreadnought GX Forest-Road Enduro
I always thought that those who like mountain cross country and forest road enduro riding are what real men should do.
After I got my hands on the Forbidden Dreadnought GX, that thought got even stronger! Every holiday season I enjoy adventures in Bellingham, Washington with my friend Joseph.
First of all, the FOX 38 (170mm Travel) and Rockshox Super Deluxe (154mm Travel) full shock design made it clear to me that Forbidden Dreadnought isn’t resting on the status quo of running on gravel trails, it loves the forest road.
Of course, it also excels on gravel roads, as I can pass them easily and quickly.
I have to say, the designer of Forbidden Dreadnought is a talented genius. It moved the High Pivot, which is used for downhill racing, to a mountain track, and surprisingly, it was able to create even more amazing chemistry.
In the rugged jungle, I could easily get the tires over all kinds of roots and rocks. A sense of pride spread through my heart as the tires ran over them. With the rear tires off those obstacles, my hands and hips felt like they were getting a massage (thanks to the shock system, I’m sure), and I enjoyed the fun feeling so much.
Forbidden Dreadnought GX Forest-Road Challenge
I have to say that the steep Seat Tube Angle (75.6°) is too good for climbing. While the comfortable pedaling position allowed my feet to easily cross the bottom bracket, the bike felt like it was being propelled forward and quickly went over the rocky steep slope. With the SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed powerplant, climbing became easy and fast.
But it’s those bouncy moments that I enjoy the most, and the Forbidden Dreadnought GX offers extra kudos to those who like to accelerate.
Therefore, whenever I encounter a steep downward slope, I can’t help but accelerate the pedaling frequency. Because I know that when the front tire rushes over the rocks, I will enjoy the fun of “air” again, very exciting.
Commendably, BikeYoke Revive’s Seatpost has 185mm Travel (LG) is great and convenient, and I can easily make it go up or down with a flick of my finger. Especially in the downhill, I no longer have to worry about shifting the weight back, the saddle will accidentally hurt my dick.
Guys downhill are so joyful. Although it is better at climbing, there is always an inexplicable excitement that lights up my whole being every time the downhill bike jumps. Truth be told, I just want to experience this kind of joy over and over again and enjoy it.
Main Features
Frame Group
If you strength-test it to DH standards, you’ll find the Dreadnought Full Carbon to be strong. After all, it was built by the young Forbidden Bike Company in conjunction with the industry’s leading technology manufacturer.
The thoughtful Forbidden has even equipped it with integrated protection to make it the “wild but quiet” boy.
Forbidden Dreadnought’s frame configuration is a copy of its brother Druid’s set. Whether it’s adaptable cable routing, Water Bottle Fitment, or storage space under the downtube, it has everything its brother has. But in the Stem and Handlebar, Dreadnought has made an upgrade.
In addition, the higher-end, extremely comfortable Saddle (Fizik Alpaca X5 Chromoly Rails) and Seatpost (BikeYoke Revive 31.6mm) are also more suitable for enduro tracks.
Needless to say, the hidden internal alignment design gives the Forbidden Dreadnought GX body a very minimalist, clean look.
At the same time, the aesthetically conscious Forbidden also gives the appearance-conscious rider plenty of room to choose. In addition to the classic all-black body, there is a black-to-blue gradient and a purple-to-pink gradient. Yes, two colors for riders to choose from.
Geometry
On conventional bikes, you always see different sizes with the same Chainstay Length, but the serious Forbidden feels that this is inappropriate because it destroys the bike’s original geometry.
Therefore, Forbidden has equipped each size of the bike with a specific size of Chainstay to ensure that the center of gravity of the body is evenly distributed.
To its credit, Forbidden believes that the use of a loose Head Tube Angle (63.1°) with a longer Reach (479mm, LG), and shorter Stem (40mm) geometry in steep forest trails allows the rider to maintain stability for steady high speed riding without sacrificing handling at lower speeds.
In addition, the Wheelbase (1281mm, LG), which is longer than its brother, not only makes the Forbidden Dreadnought GX even more stable, but it will also have excellent agility on technical roads that require speed to pass.
So the Forbidden Dreadnought GX will conquer those routes that you never dared to challenge before. Whether it’s a long ride or an enduro competition or a challenging mountain bike park, the Forbidden Dreadnought GX will be there for you.
Components and Specifications
SRAM GX Eagle 1×12 Speed Drivetrain
The ambitious Forbidden and SRAM, who share their interests, are a perfect match. Their combination makes the Forbidden Dreadnought GX even more heroic and fearless.
First of all, the lighter SRAM XG-1275 Eagle 10-52T Cassette is too friendly for all-weather mountain riding! The extra large (520%) range of gears makes climbing easier and faster for the rider.
Secondly, MatchMaker X Shifters feel great, crisp, simple, and straightforward to use.
Finally, the technically upgraded X-SYNC 2 not only gives Chain a longer lifespan but also makes the ride quieter.
It is also worth mentioning that the Forbidden Dreadnought GX has been fitted with compact fenders to enhance the life of the drivetrain.
SRAM Code RSC 4 Hydraulic Disc, Braking System
Thanks to its powerful braking power, the SRAM Code has long been one of the most popular brakes for downhill, enduro, mountain bike, and electric assist models. That’s why it’s also favored by the Forbidden Dreadnought GX.
Of course, it’s even more so because it doesn’t discriminate against left-handed players, much like the maverick Forbidden Dreadnought GX. And the SRAM Code brakes support left and right swaps, allowing riders to choose their preferred braking style.
Considering that hydraulic disc drainage and maintenance are delicate tasks, SRAM adopts excellent heat-resistant oil pots and clamps, which are very convenient for users to refuel.
So with the addition of this superbly constructed, easy-to-maintain brake, combined with its excellent handling feel, the Forbidden Dreadnought GX would be hard-pressed to have a very low marketability.
FOX Performance Elite 38 GRIP2 Fork
Currently, Fox Factory’s sturdiest, smoothest, most adjustable FOX 38 is probably on every mountain lover’s mind.
In case you can’t imagine, the FOX 38 with its 170mm Travel is very much like a strong man with sturdy shoulders, giving people a sense of security.
Compared to the flawless FOX 36, the FOX 38 has been further improved in terms of lateral strength, front, and rear rigidity, and torsional resistance.
In addition, FLOAT Air Spring and GRIP 2 dampers make the fork’s feedback to the road more rapid and sensitive, giving the rider a softer and more comfortable experience while improving trail strength.
What’s more, the oversized FLOAT EVOL negative air chamber ensures that the fork is extremely sensitive to the bumps caused by even very small slopes. Therefore, the more aggressive forest road off-road is FOX 38.
RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate 2 Position Shock Absorbers
Of course, the RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate 2 Position is also the reason why you can ride in the woodland help of the RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate 2 Position.
The main thing is that the Deluxe Ultimate offers a 2-position climb switch. If you want, you can give it a lock before riding on gravel trails, so you’ll feel more energy efficient.
The moment you turn it on in the mountains, you can again feel its extremely high sensitivity and softness. And it also has adjustable low-speed rebound and low-speed compression, which can effectively absorb every bump. Therefore, it will give you perfect comfort in the process of mountain rappelling.
At the same time, the technically upgraded Rockshox Super is also more durable, so you can play tricks with impunity.
Combined with the RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate 2 Position, which boasts amazing performance, excellent long-term durability, and a great launch appearance, it is undoubtedly the perfect complement to any forest road trail bike.
Maxxis Assegai Tires
With the advent of the Ziggy Link (which replaces the rear tire with a 27.5 x 2.4″ without changing the bike’s original geometry), Forbidden’s hybrid tire diameter is becoming increasingly popular with players.
So the Forbidden Dreadnought GX is a 29″ with a 27.5″ hybrid wheelset. Of course, the Rate Control Linkage system is also compatible with the 29″ x 2.4″ rear tire.
It must be admitted that the 29 “x2.5” front tire is wider, making it more passable on forest roads, while the 27.5 “x2.4” wheelset facilitates the rider’s climbing. Therefore, this combination provides the bike with high running speed and comfort.
To its credit, the Maxxis Assegai’s tires are unbelievably strong and have great grip.
First, the tread pattern of the highly acclaimed “Minion DHF” and “Minion DHR II” speed tires combines good rolling performance with strong braking performance.
Secondly, the “High Roller II” pattern on the side not only provides traction in the dirt and mountains but also enhances the stability of the bike in wet roots and rocks. Therefore, the bike is truly ground-independent.
Equally important, those who prefer vacuum tires need not worry. Because Maxxis Assegai tires, as well as e*thirteen LG1 EN Plus Rims, are vacuum-tire enabled, you can change them yourself as needed.
Previous years’ versions of Dreadnought
The previous generation of the Dreadnought, in addition to choosing to align with the Shimano Deore XT M8100, 12-speed drivetrain, and braking system, also chose a 29″ wheelset. Of course, the Ziggy Link is compatible with the 27.5″ rear tire.
The Forbidden Dreadnought XT may not be as good as its brother, the Dreadnought GX when it comes to speed performance. But it is no slouch on either mountain riding or bushcraft and is also the best partner for forest road enduro players.
If you prefer Shimano’s operational logic, the Forbidden Dreadnought XT will happily accompany you on every holiday.
In addition to the Dreadnought XT mentioned, there is the higher-end Forbidden Dreadnought XT Complete as well as the Dreadnought SLX series, both of which are capable of jungle adventures.
If you are interested you can follow us, we will continue to update more interesting bicycle real-life tests.
What we like about it
- Shock absorbing and sturdy carbon frame, ready to accompany you on your adventures.
- Outstanding geometry that will make you fall in love with forest road enduro riding.
- The SRAM GX Eagle 1×12-speed drivetrain with SRAM Code RSC 4 Hydraulic Disc allows you to do whatever you want, whether it’s driving or braking.
- FOX 38 combined with RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate bumps and vibrations are gone.
- 29 “x2.5” with 27.5 “x2.4” wheelset for more energy-efficient climbing and more comfortable riding.
- The “High Pivot” design makes off-roading easier and more fun.
- All kinds of details are taken care of to make you more confident and longer on forest road.
What we don’t like about it
- It has been criticized for its price, but you have to know that you get what you pay for, and its performance is worth such a high entrance fee.
FAQs
- What should I choose between Forbidden Dreadnought GX and Forbidden Druid GX?
If you want to stay in the bush all day, the Forbidden Dreadnought GX is better suited. Because it’s all about the details to satisfy the rider for longer enduro rides. If you don’t have that much energy or are on a budget, the Forbidden Druid GX is the best alternative.
- What are the tire sizes for the Forbidden Dreadnought GX?
The Forbidden Dreadnought GX has Front 29 “x2.5” tires with Rear 27.5 “x2.4” tires. Of course, the Rate Control Linkage system is compatible with the 29 “x2.4” rear tire.
- How to buy Forbidden Dreadnought GX?
Reservations can be made through the Forbidden website, which is very convenient.
- If you want to go riding in well-known terrain or special terrain, where is the most convenient place to stay?
You can book your accommodation on IHG Hotels & Resorts, which is not only rich in variety but also easy to operate.
- What size Forbidden Dreadnought GX should I get?
Forbidden Dreadnought GX Size Chart
| Rider Height (cm) | Rider Height (in) | Frame Size |
| 158cm – 168cm | 5’2″ – 5’6″ | S |
| 168cm – 178cm | 5’6″ – 5′ 10″ | M |
| 178cm – 188cm | 5’10” – 6’2″ | L |
| 188cm – 198cm | 6’2″ – 6’6″ | XL |
Forbidden Dreadnought GX Specs
Build
| Frame | Dreadnought Full Carbon – 154mm Travel High-Modulus carbon | Trifecta High Single Pivot Suspension | One Ride Geometry | Enduro Max Bearings | 73mm Threaded BSA Bottom Bracket BB Standard: BSA, 73mm, Threaded |
| Fork | FOX Performance Elite 38 GRIP2 – 170mm Travel GRIP 2 Damper with HSR/LSR/HSC/LSC | FLOAT Air Spring | 44mm Offset | Kabolt Thru-Axle | Matte Black with Custom Decals | Fender included |
| Rear Shock | Rockshox Super Deluxe Ultimate 2 Position Adjuster | Debonair | RCT Damper | LSC | LSR | Custom Tune | Trunnion Mount | Bearing Mount | 205x65mm |
| Bottom Bracket | SRAM DUB 28.99mm Spindle | DUB | Threaded BSA |
| Headset | Cane Creek HellBender 70 SHIS: ZS44/28.6|ZS56/40 | Premium Stainless Steel Bearings | Alloy Dual-Seal Crown Race |
| Stem | e*thirteen Plus 40mm Length | 35mm Bar Clamp | Black Anodized with Grey Graphics |
| Handlebar | e*thirteen Plus 800mm Width | 20mm Rise | 35mm Bar Bore | Black Anodized with Grey Graphics |
| Saddle | Fizik Alpaca X5 Chromoly Rails | Black Synthetic Cover | Terra 145mm Mo3ius |
| Seatpost | BikeYoke Revive 31.6mm | Size Specific Travel :S=125mm – M=160mm – L/XL:185mm |
| Pedals | Not included |
| Grips | Forbidden Tapered Single Sided Lock-On | Black |
Wheels
| Rims | e*thirteen LG1 EN Plus 30mm Internal Width | Welded | Tubeless Ready | Black with Grey Graphics |
| Spokes | Black Black Double Butted 2.0/1.8/2.0mm Stainless w/Black Brass Nipples |
| Front Hub | DT Swiss 350 110x15mm | 32 hole | 6-Bolt | Black Anodized |
| Rear Hub | DT Swiss 350 XD Driver | 148x12mm | 32hole | 6-Bolt | Black Anodized Decal |
| Tires | Maxxis Assegai 29 “x2.5” 3C MaxxTerra Rubber Compound | 120tpi | Folding | Tubeless Ready | EXO+ Casing |
| Disk Rotors | SRAM CenterLine – 200mm 6-Bolt |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM GX 12speed Clutch |
| Crank | SRAM GX DUB 32T 170mm All Sizes | 52mm Chainline | Black |
| Shifters | SRAM GX 12speed MatchMaker X |
| Cassette | SRAM GX 10-52T 12speed | XD | 10-12-14-16-18-21-24-28-32-36-42-52T |
| Chain | SRAM GX 12speed | Links = S:126 / M:128/ L:130 XL:132 |
| Chain Tensioner | Forbidden Idler Pulley with e.13 Custom Chainguide Forbidden Integrated Idler | e.13 TRS Plus | Molded Inner with Compact Outer | Black |
| Brakes | SRAM G2 RSC 4-Piston Reach and Contact Adjustment | Steel Backed Metal Sintered |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Gear | Brakes | Shock travel | Tires | Click view |
| Scott Contessa Genius ST 910 | $7,599 | 1 × 12 Electronic | Shimano XT M8120 4 Piston Disc, Hydraulic Disc | 150mm rear, 160mm front | 29″×2.6″ | Click view |
| Trek Slash 9.8 XT | $7,299 | 1 × 12 | Shimano XT M8120 4-piston hydraulic disc | 160mm rear, 170mm front | 29″×2.5″ | Click view |
| Santa Cruz MEGATOWER X01 / Air / Carbon CC / 29 | $8,449 | 1 × 12 | SRAM Code RSC, Hydraulic Disc | 160mm rear, 160mm front | F:29 “x2.5” N:29 “x2.4” | Click view |
| Specialized Enduro Expert | $7,000 | 1 × 12 Electronic | SRAM Code RS, 4-piston caliper, hydraulic disc | 170mm rear, 170mm front | 29×2.3″ | Click view |
Scott Contessa Genius ST 910 vs Forbidden Dreadnought GX
I have to admit, the SRAM GX Eagle AXS 12-speed wireless electronic shifting system on the Scott Contessa Genius ST 910 is cool and comfortable to handle.
But in the complicated mountains, the longer travel shock system has a stronger appeal to me. Because it enables me to show off my skills without any worries, it will give me more energy to adapt to long enduro rides.
Therefore, the more comfortable and relaxed Forbidden Dreadnought GX became the obvious choice. Of course, I also hope that Forbidden will upgrade the shifting system in the next version. It’s not that the GX Eagle hand shifting isn’t good enough, it’s that the GX Eagle AXS electric shifting is awesome.
Trek Slash 9.8 XT vs Forbidden Dreadnought GX
The Trek Slash 9.8 XT appears more focused on the 29″ track than the Forbidden Dreadnought GX’s hybrid wheelset.
While it’s also fast, the Forbidden Dreadnought GX’s hybrid bore is significantly more refined, agile and stable in its handling of tree-rooted surfaces and uphill climbs.
You can feel the faster passing speed, more responsive handling, and greater grip.
This is not to say that the Trek Slash 9.8 XT is not good enough, but to tell you matter-of-factly that the Forbidden Dreadnought GX is more professional.
So, if you’re keen to take on more aggressive terrain, the Forbidden Dreadnought GX will give you a satisfying answer.
learn more：Trek Slash 9.8 GX Review-How To Be the Best Enduro Bike
Santa Cruz MEGATOWER X01 / Air / Carbon CC / 29 vs Forbidden Dreadnought GX
To be honest, the Santa Cruz MEGATOWER X01 / Air / Carbon CC with Fox Factory Float 36 fork and SRAM X01 Eagle, X1 groupset combination of Santa Cruz MEGATOWER X01 / Air / Carbon CC, although also enough to surprise me, but I always feel that such a combination and its $8,449 price does not match.
Because the real riding experience tells me that it is indistinguishable from the Forbidden Dreadnought GX in terms of both speed and shock absorption.
Therefore, the Forbidden Dreadnought GX, with its excellent cost performance, is more likely to win my heart.
Learn More: Santa Cruz MEGATOWER XX1 AXS Review – Why Is Your Mountain Bike More Expensive Than Mine?
Specialized Enduro Expert vs Forbidden Dreadnought GX
Seeing Specialized Enduro Expert’s geometry (Stack/Reach Ratio 1.292, S4), you might understand why Forbidden (Stack/Reach Ratio 1.324, LG) refuses to admit his geometry is aggressive.
In a way, riding the Specialized Enduro Expert may make you feel more taxing on your back as well as and legs. And this is still quite important for long enduro rides.
However, you can’t deny the speed of the Specialized Enduro Expert, speed is its biggest advantage.
If you are hardworking enough and looking for speed Specialized Enduro Expert is good. But if you want a little more comfort for your enduro ride, Forbidden Dreadnought GX is more thoughtful.
