Intense Sniper T 29 Expert Review
- Price: $4599
- Frame: Carbon fiber
- Wheels: 29″ Aluminum
- Gear: 1×12
What we like about it: As a full-suspension bike, it has stronger a climbing performance.
What we don’t like about it: The geometry of the large yardage is relatively aggressive.
Rating (4.7/5)
The Intense Sniper series of mountain bikes has a rich development history, born out of Intense Cycles’ dedication to challenging design and technical limits. Beginning in the early 21st century, Intense started creating a series of high-performance, full-suspension mountain bikes that could tackle the most challenging terrain. With each new iteration of the Sniper series, the company improved the bike’s geometry, suspension design, and frame materials to create a machine that could provide unparalleled speed, agility, and control.
The Intense Sniper T 29 Expert is the latest product in the Sniper series, providing riders with an unparalleled combination of speed, agility, and control. This bike features a full carbon frame and a Fox Performance Float 34 front fork design, able to tackle the most demanding terrain. With 120mm of travel in both the rear and front suspension, the Sniper T 29 Expert can easily handle rough and steep terrain. And its hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable stopping power in any situation. Whether you’re fast riding on mountain roads or tackling epic all-day adventures, the Sniper T 29 Expert is the perfect tool to elevate your mountain biking to a new level.
Below, we analyze the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert in terms of riding experience, main features, components and specifications, and other versions. If you want to learn more about bike reviews, you can follow us.
Riding Experience
Climbing Experience
The Intense Sniper T 29 Expert is an impressive endurance mountain bike, with its advanced suspension system standing out among bikes in its class. The bike’s suspension is designed to remain active while pedaling, meaning the rear wheel stays firmly planted on the ground even when you’re putting down a lot of power. This provides you with excellent traction and control, which is crucial when tackling steep climbs or technical terrain. Additionally, the lightweight carbon fiber frame and efficient pedaling platform make it easy to maintain momentum and power up steep slopes without expending too much energy.
Compared to similarly priced full-suspension mountain bikes, the Sniper T 29 Expert is in a league of its own. Its suspension system provides a more refined, comfortable riding experience than most full-suspension bikes, making it an excellent choice for endurance riders who want to tackle long, challenging climbs. Additionally, the geometry is optimized for climbing, with a steeper seat angle and shorter chainstays that help keep the front wheel down and provide better weight distribution. This makes the bike feel more stable and predictable, even when handling technical terrain.
Downhill Experience
When it comes to downhill riding, the CARBINE Pro is an absolute beast. Its full suspension system provides 155mm of travel in the rear and 160mm of travel in the front, meaning you can confidently tackle the most technical and challenging terrain. The suspension system is designed to be progressive, meaning its speed increases as you enter deeper travel, providing a comfortable ride without sacrificing responsiveness or control. This makes it easy to absorb large impacts and maintain your speed even on extremely rough terrain.
Compared to hardtail mountain bikes at the same price point, the Sniper T 29 Expert has a clear advantage when it comes to downhill riding. Its full suspension system offers a more comfortable and forgiving ride than a hardtail, meaning you can maintain your speed and momentum without getting rattled. Additionally, the suspension system provides better traction and control, which is crucial when navigating technical terrain. The carbon fiber frame and advanced components of the Sniper T 29 Expert also make it more capable than most hardtail mountain bikes in its class, giving you the confidence to tackle more challenging terrain and push your limits. After finishing our bike ride, I easily booked accommodation on Skyscanner. I can finally relax and rest well.
Overall, the Sniper T 29 Expert is an outstanding bike that is perfect for endurance riders who want to tackle a variety of terrain and conditions. Whether you’re climbing steep slopes or sprinting down technical descents, the Sniper T 29 Expert offers a comfortable, responsive, and inspiring ride that will keep you smiling for miles. With its advanced suspension system, lightweight carbon fiber frame, and high-quality components, this bike is sure to exceed your expectations and provide an unforgettable riding experience.
Specification
The Intense Sniper T 29 Expert is a full suspension endurance mountain bike with a Carbine 29″ Enduro-optimized carbon fiber frame, equipped with a Fox Elite Float 38 front fork with 160mm of travel, and a Fox Performance Elite Float X2 rear shock with 230mm x 60mm (155mm) of travel.
The drivetrain of the Sniper T 29 Expert is comprised of high-quality components, including a Shimano XT 12-speed rear derailleur, EThirteen TRS Plus 12-speed crankset, and Shimano XT 12-speed I-Spec shifter. The bike is also equipped with Shimano XT M8120 four-piston brakes, with 203mm rotors on both the front and rear.
The wheels of the Sniper T 29 Expert feature EThirteen LG1 Enduro 30mm rims, and the tires are a MAXXIS Minion DHF WT Exo+ 29″ x 2.5″ on the front and a MAXXIS Minion DHR II WT Exo+ 29″ x 2.4″ on the rear. These tires are known for their excellent grip and durability on a variety of terrain.
All in all, this construction is a special choice for riders who want a high-performance mountain bike to tackle a variety of terrain and conditions. With its advanced suspension system, lightweight carbon fiber frame, and high-quality components, the Sniper T 29 Expert is an excellent choice for endurance riders who want to push their limits and challenge the trails.
What do we like about it?
- The carbon fiber frame is both lightweight and durable, striking a good balance between strength and flexibility.
- The full suspension system is designed to absorb bumps and drops with ease, providing a smooth and controlled ride on even the toughest terrain.
- Climbing ability. Efficient geometry and a lightweight frame make this bike a climbing machine, allowing the rider to tackle the steepest grades with ease.
- Downhill capability. Although not specifically designed for downhill riding, the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert is still stable on technical descents, with 120mm suspension travel and hydraulic disc brakes providing reliable stopping power.
- Balanced geometry. The bike’s geometry has been optimized to balance climbing and descending performance, making it a great all-rounder.
- SRAM NX Eagle groupset. SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed groupset offers precise and reliable shifting over a wide range of gears, making it easier for riders to tackle a variety of terrain.
- TRP Slate T4 brake system. Hydraulic disc brakes provide consistent braking power in all conditions, giving the rider the confidence and control to tackle technical terrain with ease.
- EThirteen XCX XC rims: 27mm alloy rims are lightweight and durable, optimized for both climbing and descending performance.
- Maxxis Aggressor EXO tires. The tires provide excellent traction and durability on a variety of terrain, allowing riders to tackle challenging trails with confidence.
- The dropper seatpost allows riders to quickly and easily adjust their riding position, making it easier to handle technical terrain and descents.
What don’t we like about it?
- The geometry of the large yardage is relatively aggressive.
FAQs
- Is the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert a bike for off-road riding?
Yes, the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert is perfect for trail riding. That’s thanks to its lightweight frame, efficient geometry, and 29-inch wheels. It’s optimized for climbing and offers excellent speed and agility on the trails.
- Can the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert handle technical terrain?
Yes. The Intense Sniper T 29 Expert is designed to tackle technical terrain with ease. That’s thanks to its full suspension system, hydraulic disc brakes, and balanced geometry. Riders can tackle challenging trails with confidence and control.
- Is the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert easy to assemble?
Although some assembly is required, the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert comes with detailed instructions and all the necessary tools. Assembling the bike should be easy for most riders.
- Can you adjust the dropper seat tube for different rider heights?
Yes. The Intense Sniper T 29 Expert has a drop-down seat post that can be adjusted to different heights, allowing riders to quickly and easily adjust their riding position.
- What heights are Intense Sniper T 29 Expert suitable for?
The size chart for the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert is as follows:
These sizes are only general guidelines and the true fit may vary from person to person. The easiest way to find your size the best way is to go for a test ride.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’2″ – 5’8″ | S |
| 5’6″ – 5’11” | M |
| 5’10” – 6’3″ | L |
| 6’1″ – 6’7″ | XL |
Intense Sniper T 29 Expert Specs
Build
| Frame | Sniper 29 T Monocoque Carbon Front and Rear Triangle, Carbon Top Link, Titanium Hardware, Internal Shift, Dropper Post and Brake Routing, Flak Guard. 120MM (4.7″) TravelBB Standard: BB86/BB92, Press FitColors: Black / Blue; Black / Silver |
| Fork | Fox Performance Float 34, 29″ 120MM Travel, GRIP, 51MM offset, Boost 110x15MM, Quick Release axle |
| Rear Shock | Fox Performance Float DPS, 165MM x 45MM (120mm Travel), 3-position (open/trail/closed) |
| Bottom Bracket | SRAM DUB BB92 |
| Headset | TANGE SEIKI INTEGRATED / IS41-IS52 / 40 |
| Stem | INTENSE Recon 45MM |
| Handlebar | INTENSE Recon Alloy 760MM |
| Saddle | WTB Silverado Sport w/ Cr-Mo Rails |
| Seatpost | INTENSE Recon 31.6MM dropper, 125MM SM / 150MM MD / 170MM LG-XL |
| Grips | INTENSE |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM NX Eagle 12SP |
| Crank | SRAM NX Eagle 12SP, DUB, 32T / 170MM SM / 175MM MD-XL / Boost |
| Shifters | SRAM NX Eagle 12SP Trigger |
| Cassette | SRAM PG1230 Eagle 12SP, 11-50T |
| Chain | SRAM NX Eagle 12SP |
| Brakes | TRP Slate T4 Front 180MM Rotors / TRP Slate T4 Rear 180MM Rotors |
Wheels
| Rims | ETHIRTEEN XCX XC 27MM Alloy Rim INTENSE Alloy Hub/ Boost |
| Front Hub | INTENSE hubs 32 Hole 15×110 front, 12×148 rear hub 6-bolt |
| Rear Hub | INTENSE hubs 32 Hole 15×110 front, 12×148 rear hub 6-bolt |
| Tires | Maxxis Aggressor EXO 29″ x 2.30″ |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Drivetrain | Frame material | Components | Click view |
| Canyon Neuron CF 9 | $3999 | 1×12 | Carbon Fiber | Shimano XT | Click View |
| Ibis Ripmo AF NGX | $4299 | 1×12 | Aluminum alloy | GX Eagle, NX Eagle | Click View |
| Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 | $4200 | 1×12 | Carbon Fiber | GX Eagle, NX Eagle | Click View |
| Specialized Stumpjumper Comp | $5000 | 1×12 | Carbon Fiber | GX Eagle, NX Eagle | Click View |
Intense Sniper T 29 Expert vs. Canyon Neuron CF 9
Both are two full-suspension mountain bikes with different advantages and limitations. The Intense Sniper T 29 Expert is more expensive than the Canyon Neuron CF 9. However, its advanced suspension, lightweight carbon frame, and reliable SRAM NX Eagle groupset may justify its higher price for some riders.
On the other hand, the Canyon Neuron CF 9 has a carbon fiber wheelset that is lighter and more responsive than the aluminum wheelset of the niper T 29 Expert, as well as a wider selection of wheel sizes. The weight of the bike is also a consideration, with the Canyon Neuron CF 9 being heavier than the Sniper T 29 Expert. However, the Canyon Neuron CF 9 has Shimano mountain components, which some riders may prefer over the SRAM NX Eagle groupset on the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert.
Overall, both bikes have their unique strengths and limitations. The decision between them will depend on the rider’s priorities and preferences. the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert is optimized for climbing and descending performance, while the Canyon Neuron CF 9 offers a carbon wheelset and a wider choice of wheel sizes. Riders should consider their specific needs and preferences before deciding which bike is right for them.
Learn More : Is Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 Worth Buying? [Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 Review]
Intense Sniper T 29 Expert vs. Ibis Ripmo AF NGX
They are both full-suspension mountain bikes with different strengths and limitations. Compared to the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert, the Canyon Neuron CF 9 has some advantages with its super-strong front and rear suspension travel that can easily handle technical terrain. It also has a faster gear selection and a smoother geometry that may be more comfortable for some riders. However, the aluminum frame of the Canyon Neuron CF 9 may affect its climbing ability, which could be a consideration for riders who prioritize climbing performance.
On the other hand, the Sniper T 29 Expert offers a reliable suspension system, precise shifting, and a lightweight carbon fiber frame optimized for both climbing and descending performance. Although it may not have the same front and rear suspension travel as the Canyon Neuron CF 9, its 120mm travel still provides solid performance on technical terrain. Additionally, the SRAM NX Eagle groupset on the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert provides reliable shifting across a wide range of gears, and the bike’s balanced geometry makes it a great all-around performer.
Overall, both bikes have their unique strengths and limitations, and the decision between them will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the rider. Riders who prioritize downhill performance and smoothness may prefer the Canyon Neuron CF 9, while those who prioritize climbing and all-around performance may prefer the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert.
Learn More: Is Ibis Ripmo AF GX Worth Buying? – [Ibis Ripmo AF GX Review ]
Intense Sniper T 29 Expert vs. Cannondale Habit Carbon 3
These two bikes are both full-suspension mountain bikes with different advantages and limitations.
The Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 has higher front and rear suspension travel, making it a great choice for riders who prioritize downhill performance and can easily handle more technical terrain. However, the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert still provides a reliable suspension system with 120mm of travel, making it a great all-around performer.
In terms of geometry, the Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 has a more aggressive geometry. This may appeal to riders who prefer a more aggressive ride. However, this aggressive geometry compromises speed and has a lower BB height.
When it comes to speed, the Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 might be a little slower. Because it weighs more and has more cushioned travel. The Sniper T 29 Expert has a lightweight carbon frame that makes it great for speed and agility on the trails.
Overall, both bikes have their unique advantages and limitations. The choice between them will depend on the rider’s priorities and preferences. The Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 may be preferred by riders who prioritize downhill performance and more aggressive geometry. The Intense Sniper T 29 Expert, on the other hand, offers a reliable suspension system, lightweight carbon fiber frame, and excellent all-around performance. Riders should consider their specific needs and preferences before deciding which bike is right for them.
Learn More: Is Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 Worth Buying? [Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 Review]
Intense Sniper T 29 Expert vs. Specialized Stumpjumper Comp
Although the Specialized Stumpjumper Comp has better component grade, better suspension travel, and super grippy tires, it is also more expensive than the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert and has lower grade sub-components.
For riders who prioritize performance and reliability, the component grade is an important consideration. The Specialized Stumpjumper Comp provides a higher grade than the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert. However, the SRAM NX Eagle group on the Sniper T 29 Expert still provides precise and reliable shifting, and its lightweight carbon fiber frame makes it an excellent all-around performer. Speaking of suspension travel, the Specialized Stumpjumper Comp provides better suspension travel than the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert, which may be an advantage for riders who often encounter technical terrain. In addition, the super grippy tires on the Specialized Stumpjumper Comp may provide better traction on the trails.
However, the Specialized Stumpjumper Comp is more expensive than the Sniper T 29 Expert, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious riders. Additionally, the sub-component grade of the Specialized Stumpjumper Comp is lower than the Sniper T 29 Expert, which may be a consideration for riders who prioritize high-quality components.
Overall, these two bikes have their unique strengths and limitations. The choice between them will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the rider. Riders who prioritize performance and reliability may prefer the Specialized Stumpjumper Comp, while those who prioritize value and climbing performance may prefer the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert.
Summary
These are our tests of the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert, an all-around mountain bike at the right price that is loved by the majority of serious riders. If you’d like to try one of the affordable entry-level bikes or the more expensive race-level bikes, feel free to take a look at our test.
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