Intense PRIMER 29 Expert Review
- Price: $4599
- Frame: Carbon fiber
- Wheels: 29″ Aluminum
- Gear: 1×12
What we like about it: Comfortable, wide tires and stable support.
What we didn’t like about it: Not good for climbing.
Rating (4.7/5)
Intense Cycles is a California-based bicycle company that has been renowned for producing high-performance mountain bikes since 1993. Over the years, the company has established a reputation for manufacturing durable, versatile, and capable bikes that can handle a variety of terrain. One of their popular bike series is the PRIMER, which was first introduced in 2017.
The Intense PRIMER 29 Expert is the latest product in this series, offering a range of features that cater to experienced riders’ demands. This mountain bike is designed to provide excellent performance and control on challenging terrain. It revolves around a lightweight carbon fiber frame with a full suspension system, featuring 140mm of rear travel and 150mm of front travel. The bike is also equipped with a Fox Performance Float 36 fork, hydraulic disc brakes, and a dropper seatpost to enhance the rider’s experience.
The PRIMER 29 Expert is suitable for a range of mountain biking activities, including cross-country, trail riding, and all-mountain adventures. Its 29-inch wheels and 1×12 NX Eagle drivetrain offer excellent traction and smooth shifting, making it an ideal choice for technical climbs and descents. Additionally, the bike’s full suspension system ensures a comfortable ride. Even on rough terrain, making it a versatile choice for riders looking for a reliable and capable mountain bike.
Below, we analyze the Intense PRIMER 29 Expert in terms of riding experience, key features, components and specifications, and other versions. If you want to learn more about bike reviews, follow us.
Riding Experience
The Intense PRIMER 29 Expert is a high-end mountain bike designed for experienced riders who demand excellent performance and control on the trails. While the bike is built to handle a variety of terrain, it is worth noting that its climbing experience is not as effective as other bikes in its class.
The full suspension system and sturdy frame do add weight to the bike. This can make it feel sluggish on steep climbs. However, for riders who prioritize the downhill experience over climbing, the PRIMER 29 Expert does not disappoint. By the way, if you want to go riding in well-known terrain or special terrain, you can book your accommodation on Skyscanner. It is not only rich in variety but also easy to operate.
Downhill Experience
The Intense PRIMER 29 Expert is a great choice for riders looking for a high-performance mountain bike. The full suspension system with 140mm travel in the rear and 150mm travel in the front. Combined with its lightweight carbon frame, makes it a capable and responsive machine on technical downhill trails.
The Fox Performance Float 36 fork and hydraulic disc brakes provide excellent control and stability, allowing riders to tackle steep and rocky terrain with confidence. With its 29-inch wheels and 1×12 NX Eagle drivetrain, the PRIMER 29 Expert provides excellent traction and stability at high speeds, making it a popular choice for aggressive all-mountain and trail riding.
Riding Performance
Overall, the Intense PRIMER 29 Expert is a high-performance mountain bike. It excels at downhill riding but may not be as efficient on climbs. Its design can handle a variety of terrain, from cross-country to all-mountain adventures. And it provides excellent control and stability on technical descents.
While its weight and climbing performance may not make it an ideal choice for riders seeking a lightweight climbing machine, the PRIMER 29 Expert’s excellent downhill performance, full suspension system. And high-quality components make it a popular choice for experienced riders seeking a durable and versatile mountain bike.
Specification
The Intense PRIMER 29 Expert is a top-of-the-line mountain bike that offers a range of features designed to provide excellent performance and control on mountain trails. Its key features include a lightweight and durable carbon fiber frame with an optimized layup and Ti hardware, a full suspension system with 140mm of rear travel and 150mm of front travel, and a Fox Performance Float X rear shock.
The bike’s drivetrain consists of an SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed rear derailleur, SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed crankset, SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed trigger shifter, and SRAM PG1230 Eagle 12-speed cassette. The PRIMER 29 Expert is also equipped with TRP Trail EVO four-piston brakes, e*Thirteen LG1 Enduro 30mm rims with INTENSE alloy hubs, and Kenda Pinner 29″ x 2.4″ front and rear tires. With its high-end components and high-quality construction, the PRIMER 29 Expert is the ultimate choice for experienced riders who demand top-tier performance and durability from their mountain bike.
What do we like about it?
- The lightweight and durable carbon fiber frame and optimized layered monocoque UD carbon fiber front and rear v-belt Ti hardware ensure excellent performance and control on the mountain trails.
- Full suspension system with 140mm travel in the rear and 150mm in the front provides a smooth and comfortable ride on challenging terrain.
- The Fox Performance Float X rear shock features a 2-position (open/cross-country) setting that allows riders to easily adjust the shock to suit their preferred riding style.
- The SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain offers smooth and reliable shifting, making it easy to navigate technical climbs and descents.
- TRP Trail EVO four-piston brakes provide reliable braking power and control, even on steep downhill grades.
- e*Thirteen LG1 Enduro 30mm rims with INTENSE alloy hubs provide excellent traction and stability on mountain roads.
- Kenda Pinner 29″ x 2.4″ front and rear tires provide excellent grip and durability on a variety of terrain.
- The INTENSE Recon 31.6mm dropper seat post allows riders to easily and instantly adjust their saddle height, improving their overall control and stability on the bike.
- The wide handlebars (760mm for the SM size and 780mm for the MD-XL size) provide good leverage and control while riding.
- Flak armor and ISCG05 mounts add an extra layer of protection to the bike’s frame, ensuring long-lasting durability and reliability on the trails.
What don’t we like about it?
- Not suitable for climbing.
FAQs
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
The PRIMER 29 Expert is designed for experienced riders who demand high-performance and quality components. While beginners can ride the bike, it may be more challenging to handle for those without much experience on the trails.
- What type of terrain is this bike suitable for?
The PRIMER 29 Expert is designed for all-mountain and trail riding on a variety of terrain, including technical singletrack, steep descents, and rocky terrain.
- What is the weight of this bike?
The exact weight of the bike may vary depending on size and specific components. However, the Intense PRIMER 29 Expert is typically a lightweight bike due to its carbon fiber frame and high-end components.
- Can the bike be used for racing?
Yes. The PRIMER 29 Expert is designed for all-mountain and trail riding. This makes it the perfect choice for racing on challenging terrain.
- What heights are Intense PRIMER 29 Expert suitable for?
The size chart for Intense PRIMER 29 Expert is as follows:
These sizes are only a general guide, the true fit may vary from person to person, and the easiest way to find your size is the best way to go for a test ride.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 4’11” – 5’6″ | S |
| 5’4″ – 5’10” | M |
| 5’8″ – 6’1″ | L |
| 5’10” – 6’6″ | XL |
Intense PRIMER 29 Expert Specs
Build
| Frame | Primer 29″ Optimized Layup Monocoque UD Carbon Front and Rear Triangle, Carbon Top Link, Ti Hardware, internal shift, dropper post and brake routing. ISCG05 mounts, flak guard armor, 140mm (5.5″) travelBB Standard: BSA, 73mm, ThreadedColor: Grey |
| Fork | FOX Performance Float 36, 29″ 150mm Travel, GRIP, 51mm offset, Boost 110x15mm |
| Rear Shock | FOX Performance Float X, 210mm x 50mm (140mm), 2-position (open/trail) |
| Bottom Bracket | SRAM DUB BSA 73MM BOTTOM BRACKET (THREADED) |
| Headset | Tange Seiki ZS44-EC49/40 |
| Stem | INTENSE Recon 45mm |
| Handlebar | INTENSE Recon Alloy 760mm SM / 780mm MD-XL |
| Saddle | WTB Silverado Sport w/ Cr-Mo Rails |
| Seatpost | INTENSE Recon 31.6mm dropper, 125mm SM / 150mm MD-LG / 170mm XL |
| Grips | INTENSE Lock-on |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM NX Eagle 12SP |
| Crank | SRAM NX Eagle 12SP, DUB, 32t, 170MM SM-LG/175MM XL / BOOST |
| Shifters | SRAM NX Eagle 12SP Trigger |
| Cassette | SRAM PG1230 Eagle 12SP, 11-50T |
| Chain | SRAM NX Eagle 12SP |
| Brakes | TRP Trail EVO Front (Four Piston) 180mm Rotors / TRP Trail Evo Rear (Four Piston) 1800mm Rotors |
Wheels
| Rims | e*Thirteen LG1 Enduro 30MM Rim INTENSE Alloy Hub/Boost |
| Front Hub | INTENSE Alloy hubs 32 Hole 15×110 front, 12×148 rear hub 6-bolt |
| Rear Hub | INTENSE Alloy hubs 32 Hole 15×110 front, 12×148 rear hub 6-bolt |
| Tires | Front/Rear: kenda Pinner 29″ x 2.4″ |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Drivetrain | Frame material | Groupset | Click view |
| Canyon Neuron CF 9 SL | $4999 | 1×12 electronic | Carbon Fiber | GX Eagle AXS, X1 | Click View |
| Ibis Ripley Deore | $5099 | 1×12 | Carbon Fiber | Deore | Click View |
| Scott Spark RC Team | $4999 | 1×12 | Carbon Fiber | Shimano XT | Click View |
| Diamondback Release 4C | $4350 | 1×11 | Carbon Fiber | NX Eagle, Truvativ Descendant | Click View |
Intense PRIMER 29 Expert vs. Canyon Neuron CF 9 SL
The Canyon Neuron CF 9 SL has an excellent component rating thanks to its high-end electronic shifting system, lightweight carbon fiber wheelset, and wider tire size options. It is a more expensive bike with smaller front and rear suspension travel, making it better suited for smoother mountain trails and cross-country riding.
On the other hand, the PRIMER 29 Expert has a durable carbon fiber frame, a full suspension system with 140mm rear travel and 150mm front travel, and high-quality components such as TRP Trail EVO four-piston brakes and e*Thirteen LG1 Enduro 30mm wheelset with INTENSE alloy hubs. It’s a great choice for experienced riders who want a bike that can handle challenging terrain and all-mountain riding.
Overall, the choice between the two bikes depends on the rider’s needs, preferences, and budget. If you’re looking for a bike with a high-end electronic shifting system and a lightweight carbon fiber wheelset, the Neuron CF 9 SL may be the better choice. However, if you want a durable and capable bike that can handle challenging terrain, the PRIMER 29 Expert may be the better choice.
Learn More: Is Canyon Spectral 29 CF 7 Worth Buying? [Canyon Spectral 29 CF 7 Review]
Intense PRIMER 29 Expert vs. Ibis Ripley Deore
The Ibis Ripley Deore has a more compressed and stable frame, providing the rider with a more aggressive riding position that is ideal for technical and steep terrain. In contrast, the PRIMER 29 Expert has a more upright riding position that is more comfortable for longer rides and more flexible for different types of terrain.
In terms of component rating, the PRIMER 29 Expert has a higher-end rating than the Ibis Ripley Deore, making it more suitable for riders looking for the highest level of performance. The PRIMER 29 Expert’s TRP Trail EVO four-piston brakes, e*Thirteen LG1 Enduro 30mm rims with INTENSE alloy hubs. And SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain make it the perfect choice for experienced riders who demand the best components.
PRIMER 29 Expert also has more cushioning travel, with 140mm in the rear and 150mm in the front, making it more suitable for more challenging terrain. In contrast, Ibis Ripley Deore has lower front and rear cushioning travel, making it more suitable for smoother mountain and off-road rides. Although Ibis Ripley Deore has a more aggressive riding position, it is also more expensive than PRIMER 29 Expert, which may make PRIMER 29 Expert more appealing to budget-conscious riders. Ibis Ripley Deore may be a better choice for experienced riders who need a more aggressive riding position and are willing to pay more for it.
If you are looking for a bike with higher-end components and more cushioning travel, PRIMER 29 Expert may be the better choice. However, if you want a bike with a more compact, stable frame and a more aggressive riding position, Ibis Ripley Deore may be the better choice.
Learn More: Is Ibis Ripley AF Deore Worth Buying? [Ibis Ripley AF Deore Review]
Intense PRIMER 29 Expert vs. Scott Spark RC Team
Scott Spark RC Team features a super-stable frame and a higher standover height, making it an ideal choice for technical and steep terrain. In contrast, PRIMER 29 Expert has a more upright riding position that is more comfortable for longer rides and more versatile for different types of terrain.
In terms of component grade, PRIMER 29 Expert has a higher grade than Scott Spark RC Team, making it a better choice for experienced riders seeking the best components and the highest level of performance. The TRP Trail EVO four-piston brakes, e*Thirteen LG1 Enduro 30mm rims with INTENSE alloy hubs, and SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain provide excellent performance.
PRIMER 29 Expert also has more suspension travel, with 140mm at the rear and 150mm at the front, making it more suitable for more challenging terrain. In contrast, Scott Spark RC Team has lower suspension travel, making it more suitable for smoother mountain and off-road riding. Although Scott Spark RC Team features a super-stable frame and higher standover height, it is also more expensive than PRIMER 29 Expert. This may make PRIMER 29 Expert a more attractive choice for budget-conscious riders. Scott Spark RC Team may be a better choice for experienced riders who require a super-stable frame and are willing to pay a premium.
Overall, the choice between these two bikes will depend on the rider’s specific needs, preferences, and budget. If you’re looking for a bike with higher-end components and more suspension travel, PRIMER 29 Expert may be the better choice. However, if you want a bike with a super-stable frame and higher standover height, Scott Spark RC Team may be the better choice.
Learn More: Is the Scott Scale 940 A Great Value Hardtail Bike? [Scott Scale 940 Review]
Intense PRIMER 29 Expert vs. Diamondback Release 4C
The wheel diameter of the Diamondback Release 4C is smaller than that of the PRIMER 29 Expert. As a result, it offers more agility on rugged terrain but compromises its ability to go through obstacles. On the other hand, the 29-inch wheels of the PRIMER 29 Expert provide better obstacle clearance but are less agile on rough terrain. The choice between the two will depend on the rider’s preference for agility or obstacle clearance.
In terms of component ratings, the PRIMER 29 Expert has a higher-end rating than the Diamondback Release 4C, making it more suitable for experienced riders who demand the best components and want the highest level of performance. The PRIMER 29 Expert’s TRP Trail EVO four-piston brakes and SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain provides superior performance.
The PRIMER 29 Expert also has more suspension travel, with 140mm in the rear and 150mm in the front, making it more suitable for more challenging terrain. In contrast, the Diamondback Release 4C has 130mm of rear travel and 140mm of front travel, making it more suitable for smoother mountain and off-road riding.
While the Diamondback Release 4C is cheaper than the PRIMER 29 Expert, the latter’s higher-end component rating and larger wheel diameter make it a better choice for experienced riders who demand the best performance. However, if you want a less expensive bike that is more agile on rough terrain, the Diamondback Release 4C may be a better choice.
Overall, both bikes have great performance and high-quality components. The choice between the two will depend on the rider’s specific needs, preferences, and budget.
Learn More: Is Diamondback Syncr Worth Buying? [Diamondback Syncr Review]
Summary
The above is our review of the Intense PRIMER 29 Expert. It is well-suited for riders who are focused on downhill mountain biking but may compromise a bit on climbing ability. However, overall, it is a trusted choice among mountain full-suspension enthusiasts. If you’re interested in trying out more affordable entry-level bikes, be sure to check out our related reviews.
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