HOPE RETURNS
The latest version of the HB130 features better spec and an aggro coil shock build
When Hope launched the HB130 last year we were nervous for the Barnoldswick brand. The HB160, its first bike, was pretty but conservative and it’s fair to say it received a lukewarm reception. The brand’s second bike changed all that with better geometry and suspension, and now for 2021 Hope has added some new spec choices, including this rowdier FR edition.
The bike features components run by its race team, hence the ‘Factory Racing’ acronym, so now’s your chance to tap into some of Adam Brayton’s speed. Well, at least look the part, anyway. The Fox 36 is replaced by an Öhlins M2 fork up front and controlling the rear wheel’s terrain behaviour is a TTX coil shock.
Hope has also ditched its proprietary 130x17mm rear hub spacing, a decision it says was prompted by customer feedback. The new HB130 runs a standard 148x12mm axle at the back. For those riders who are worried about finding spares if they managed to thrash a hub in the Alps, the change to a Boost rear will be most welcome. There’s also now a factory-approved Mullet kit; HB130 riders who wish to experiment with the 29/27.5in wheel size combination can now do so without any concern about frame clearance or warranty issues. Hope’s Mullet kit comprises a revised rocker, Fortus 26w 27.5 rear wheel and Maxxis High Roller II 2.4in EXO TR tyres. Check out mbr.co.uk for our first ride on the original HB130 to see how it rides.