Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start Review
- Price: $4299
- Frame: Carbon
- Tire: Schwalbe Magic Mary
- Gear: 1×12
What we like about it: It provides the performance needed in any terrain, such as massive jumpline or wet root passage and quick curves or steep drops.
What we don’t like about it: The price may not be ideal for beginners.
Rating: (4.8/5)
Downhill riding is exhilarating, and extreme sports are highly sought after. To allow more people to participate in downhill riding, we found the Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start.
It is an outstanding full-suspension downhill bike, and I am excited to see its performance in downhill riding.
In this article, we will analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start.
Additionally, in the latter part of this article, we will compare several top bike models. If you want to learn more about bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
To better test this full-suspension downhill bike, I booked a flight and reserved a hotel on IHG to visit the Teäre Line Sölden bike park. This trail is 3.1 miles long, all downhill with a vertical drop of 2312 ft. It features many gravel sections, as well as wooden bridges and numerous twists and turns throughout.
Downhill
I started riding at the Teäre Line Sölden bike park, continuously adjusting the SRAM GX Eagle Rear Derailleur to adapt to different slopes.
During the downhill sections, I firmly held onto the SIXPACK Millenium 805 handlebar to ensure a secure grip and avoid any potential danger. With its 180mm front travel and 180mm rear travel, the bike has impressive suspension, and I didn’t feel excessively rough on the gravel sections.
When encountering short uphill segments, I stood up on the pedals since the inclines were brief and not too steep. I used the speed gained from the downhill to power through the uphill sections, which was truly exhilarating.
Moreover, this bike is equipped with Schwalbe Magic Mary tires. It features V-Groves specifically developed for the Magic Mary, allowing each stud to bite into the ground for enhanced traction.
The angled lugs on the tread optimize rolling performance, making my ride on gravel surfaces very comfortable.
I could roll over every rock without worrying about flat tires. Additionally, the powerful 180mm front travel and 180mm rear travel provided exceptional suspension, resulting in a relatively smooth ride.
Teäre Line Sölden bike park has many curves and wooden bridges, but with my extensive experience, I was able to control the handlebars flexibly and find the optimal points for power delivery in each turn. The tires also offered excellent grip, giving me full confidence without concerns of tire slippage.
Is that all?
The SIXPACK Millenium 805 handlebar, despite being lightweight, is incredibly sturdy. Made from high-end 7050-T6 aluminum, it provides better control during rides.
Furthermore, it features the SIXPACK Kamikaze saddle, a DH/Freeride-specific seat that offers excellent support for my mountain biking posture.
With its anti-slip polyurethane cover and Kevlar side panels for exceptional grip, I can perfectly maneuver the bike by shifting my weight, especially during turns.
The CrMo chrome-molybdenum steel rails ensure durability even under immense pressure, which is crucial for downhill riding that often involves various bumps. However, this saddle’s robust quality allows me to complete numerous downhill rides with ease.
Specification
The Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start is an outstanding full-suspension downhill bike. It features a Blend Carbon Frame, which contributes to its lightweight construction. With 180mm front travel and 180mm rear travel, the suspension performance is exceptional.
Additionally, it is equipped with Schwalbe Magic Mary tires, featuring a complex central tread, sturdy shoulder studs, and an aggressive open tread design for powerful braking traction and cornering grip, even in extremely muddy terrains.
Moreover, this bike boasts the SRAM G2 R Hydraulic Disc brakes, delivering strong braking power to ensure rider safety.
Video
What do we like about it?
- It provides the performance needed in any terrain with massive jumpline or wet root passage and quick curves or steep drops.
- The unique combination of different resin-infused carbon layers provides exceptional performance at specific locations on the frame.
- The PRO10 suspension system prevents suspension compression while pedaling, keeping the front wheel from lifting during steep climbs and avoiding accidents.
- The robust ACROS frame bearings with PROPAIN dust seals protect against dust, water, and dirt intrusion.
What don’t we like about it?
- The price may not be ideal for beginners.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
It can be ridden by both beginners and experienced riders.
- What size water bottle can this bike accommodate?
It can accommodate a maximum of 0.5 liters of water bottle, but if you choose a larger frame size, it can hold a 0.7-liter bottle.
- How does the bike handle high drops and hard landings?
This bike features a newly designed chainstay protector that absorbs chain vibrations and eliminates slap, effectively protecting the chainstay from damage.
- How to choose the right size?
The size chart 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 is the best way to try it out.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’4″ – 5’10” | MD |
| 5’8″ – 6’3″ | LG |
| 6’0″ – 6’6″ | XL |
Specs
Build
| Frame | Blend Carbon FrameHanger Standard: UDH |
| Fork | RockShox ZEB R, 180 mm |
| Rear Shock | RockShox Select R Coil, 180 mm |
| Stem | SIXPACK Vertic 50 |
| Handlebar | SIXPACK Millenium 805 |
| Saddle | SIXPACK Kamikaze |
| Seatpost | PROPAIN Seatpost |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM GX Eagle (1×12) |
| Crank | Truvativ Descendant Eagle, 32t |
| Cassette | SRAM XG-1275 10-52, (1×12) |
| Brakes | SRAM G2 R, 200 mm / 200 mm |
Wheels
| Rims | NEWMEN Performance, 30 |
| Tires | Schwalbe Magic Mary |
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame material | Groupset |
| YT Industries Tues Pro 27 | Click View | MAXXIS Assegai, 27.5 x 2.5 | 1×7 | Carbon | SRAM X01, e*thirteen LG1 Plus |
| Scott Gambler 920 | Click View | Maxxis Assegai 29×2.5″ | 1×7 | Aluminum | SRAM GX, Truvativ Descendant |
| CUBE TWO15 HPC SLX 29 | Click View | Schwalbe Magic Mary | 1×7 | Carbon | SRAM GX, Race Face |
| Giant Reign SX | Click View | Maxxis Assegai 29×2.5 | 1×10 | Aluminum | Shimano Deore, Praxis |
Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start vs YT Industries Tues Pro 27
The weight of the YT Industries Tues Pro 27 is 34.8 lbs, which is higher than the weight of the Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start (32.2 lbs).
This extra weight may add some resistance for the rider during cycling. Additionally, the YT Industries Tues Pro 27 has 27.5″ wheels, offering great maneuverability. On the other hand, the Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start has 29″ wheels, providing better rollover capability.
Furthermore, the Spindrift CF 29 Start features a 1×12 drivetrain. Compared to the 1×7 drivetrain of the YT Industries Tues Pro 27, the Spindrift CF 29 Start has a wider gear range and smoother shifting.
However, it has 180mm of front travel and rear travel, which is less than the 203mm of front travel and rear travel found on the YT Industries Tues Pro 27.
In conclusion, if you prioritize better suspension performance, the YT Industries Tues Pro 27 is a great choice for you. If you prefer a bike with a wider gear range and smoother shifting, the Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start would better suit your needs.
Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start vs Scott Gambler 920
The Scott Gambler 920 has a heavier weight of 38.4 lbs. This is mainly due to its aluminum frame, which, although heavy, is very sturdy. In contrast, the Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start has a carbon frame that is relatively lighter but more susceptible to breakage from side impacts.
Furthermore, the Spindrift CF 29 Start offers a smoother shifting experience with its 1×12 drivetrain, but its suspension performance is not as good as the Scott Gambler 920(200mm of front travel).
Therefore, if you prioritize stronger suspension performance and a more robust bike, the Scott Gambler 920 is a better choice for you. If you prefer a lighter bike with smoother shifting, I would recommend the Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start.
Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start vs CUBE TWO15 HPC SLX 29
The CUBE TWO15 HPC SLX 29 can reach a top speed of up to 27 mph, while the Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start can reach a speed of 28 mph.
However, the CUBE TWO15 HPC SLX 29 has a larger 1.405 Stack/Reach Ratio, offering better extension and a more comfortable riding experience for the cyclist.
On the other hand, it has a slightly smaller head tube angle, which results in a more stable ride.
Furthermore, the CUBE TWO15 HPC SLX 29 is heavier and has higher riding resistance. Its 1×7 drivetrain also has a smaller gear range compared to the Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start.
So, if you prioritize a faster bike, the Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start will be well-suited for you. If you prefer a more comfortable ride, the CUBE TWO15 HPC SLX 29 would be your ideal choice.
Learn More: Is CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 625 Worth Buying? [CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 625 Review]
Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start vs Giant Reign SX
The Giant Reign SX features more agile 27.5″ wheels. However, it falls short in terms of drivetrain comparison. With a 1×10 drivetrain, it lacks the smoothness and wide gear range of the Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start’s 1×12 drivetrain. Additionally, the Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start’s 29″ wheels provide better versatility.
Furthermore, the Giant Reign SX has 190mm of front travel and 165mm of rear travel. Compared to the Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start’s 180mm front and rear travel, the Giant Reign SX offers stronger front travel suspension but slightly weaker rear travel suspension.
In summary, if you prioritize smoother shifting, the Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start is more suitable for you. If you value more agile wheels, the Giant Reign SX would be the better choice.
Learn More: Is Giant Reign 29 Worth Buying? – [Giant Reign 29 Review ]
Summary
Above is our full review of the Propain Spindrift CF 29 Start. This outstanding full-suspension downhill bike delivers an exciting and safe downhill experience.
Considering all factors, we give it a high rating of 4.8. If you’d like to learn more about bikes, feel free to check out our other reviews.
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