Nukeproof Reveals EWS-Winning Carbon Mega 290

Oct 4, 2019
by James Smurthwaite  
photo
Photos: Laurence Crossman Emms

Nukeproof have revealed the details of the Mega 290 Carbon that they've been testing on the Enduro World Series circuit since the Val di Fassa event.

There apparently wasn't ever a plan to make a Mega 290 carbon until Sam Hill requested it. It's a fairly big risk, making a whole new carbon mold for a product, just because a racer wants to test it, but Nukeproof decided to gamble and it instantly paid off. After first putting it between the tape, Sam podiumed four times in a row and overhauled Florian Nicolai in the overall. His performance meant a third successive EWS overall title and made the Mega platform one of the most successful in EWS history across both wheel sizes and in carbon or aluminium.


photo


There are a lot of changes from the currently existing aluminium Mega. First is an increase in travel from 155mm up to 160mm that comes in tandem with a reworked suspension kinematic said to "improve its small bump sensitivity, provide greater mid-stroke support... and increased end stroke." The suspension grows at the front as well, going from 160mm to 170mm, with the exception of the top of the line RS model, that comes with a 180mm Lyrik Ultimate fork.


photo



Geometry-wise, there's a significant 1.5° slackening of the head tube angle, from 66° down to 64.5° while the seat tube angle steepens to 76.75. from 75.5-degrees. That monster trucking 180mm version gets even slacker geometry, with a 64° head tube angle and a 76.3° seat tube angle.

photo
photo

We already made similar changes with last year's aluminium version that Kaz chose for his staff ride. We fitted a shorter offset 170mm Marzocchi Z1 fork, which gave the bike a bit more plough-ability and slackened it off, so we're looking forward to giving this new model a spin.

It's only the front end that looks to be carbon on these bikes, with the stays remaining aluminium. The link itself also looks fairly similar to the aluminium version, although we think it has been repositioned, which may change the bike's characteristics. All of the models are available in three sizes; M, L and XL. Let's take a look at each of the models on offer:


Nukeproof Mega 290 Elite Carbon (Shimano SLX)

photo

Fork Fox 36 Performance Series
Shock Fox DPX2 Performance Series
Wheels DT Swiss E1900
Drivetrain Shimano SLX
Finishing kit Nukeproof / Brand X Ascend seatpost
Tires Michelin Wild Enduro 29" x 2.4
Price £3,699


Nukeproof Mega 290 Pro Carbon (SRAM GX Eagle)

photo

Fork RockShox Lyrik Select
Shock RockShox Super Deluxe Select
Wheels DT Swiss E1700
Drivetrain SRAM GX Eagle
Finishing kit Nukeproof Horizon / RockShox Reverb Stealth seatpost
Tires Michelin Wild Enduro 29" x 2.4
Price £4,299


Nukeproof Mega 290 Factory Carbon (Shimano XT) 2020

photo

Fork Fox 36 Factory Series
Shock Fox Float X2 Factory Series
Wheels DT Swiss E1700
Drivetrain Shimano XT
Finishing kit Nukeproof Horizon / RockShox Reverb Stealth seatpost
Tires Michelin Wild Enduro 29" x 2.4
Price: £4,899.99


Nukeproof Mega 290 RS Carbon (SRAM XO1 Eagle)

photo

Fork RockShox Lyrik Ultimate
Shock RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate
Wheels Mavic Deemax DH
Drivetrain SRAM X01 Eagle
Finishing kit Nukeproof Horizon / RockShox Reverb Stealth seatpost
Tires Michelin Wild Enduro 29" x 2.4
Price £5,299

The bike is also available as a frame only for £2,399, and they'll be available by late-November.

Posted In:
Reviews and Tech Enduro Bikes Nukeproof Nukeproof Mega


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204 Comments
  • 102 5
 Bottle cage discussion in 3.... 2.... 1....
  • 80 134
flag f00bar (Oct 4, 2019 at 1:17) (Below Threshold)
 nah, bottles are for cross-country riders with shaved legs and dressed in lycra
  • 93 6
 Sam Hill does not need water..The people who ride this should adapt or not ride it at all..haha
  • 56 14
 Deal breaker
  • 28 9
 Serious question for rogue bottle cage placement - why doesn’t anyone put mounts on top of the top tube, up by the headtube away from your legs? Wouldn’t get covered in crap like when mounted under the down tube, and wouldn’t be in the way in normal riding either - provided it doesn’t snap off if you crash!

Bottle cages are a deal breaker for me too
  • 54 1
 Sam's been using osmosis for his hydration needs for several years now, it's the future.
  • 50 6
 @Flavaine: Wouldn't that only work if he was continually riding in seriously wet conditions. Looked pretty dry in Italy that means he'd actually lose more water.
I think you're lying I don't think he uses osmosis.
  • 41 17
 @f00bar: Bottles are for people who don't want a sweaty back, sore shoulders, encumbered riding style and the aesthetic of a happy hiker.
  • 29 0
 @Chilliwacker: Humidity > 0% is all he needs. Super efficient.
  • 3 1
 @Flavaine: well that is awesome , no wonder he wins even on flat pedals Wink
  • 6 2
 @f00bar: Goddamn, you're the man dude.
  • 3 0
 @Chilliwacker: average annual humidity in Finale Ligure is 66%, it's obviously enough for Sam Hill
  • 8 0
 @JoeRSB: Maybe they would run the risk of not passing safety standards? Within ISO 4210 there is a limit to protrusions allowed along the top of the top tube area, known as the "excluded zone". I forget the exact dimensions of the limit on the protrusions allowed there, but it's basically to save you from crotch injuries. Probably a bit outdated and in need of an overhaul since this was mostly because of shifters mounted on the frame back in the day and people were getting impaled, but you still dont wanna get hurt there really. They could perhaps just sell with the mounting holes only and let customers throw on their own bottle cages at their own risk? Ive seen some time trial bikes with built in soft bottles exactly where you propose. I think they get away with it because its soft? However, I can already imagine some pretty horrific accidents if you have a flexible, but hard metal/plastic bottle cage on the top tube behind the head tube.
  • 6 0
 @Chilliwacker: OSMOSISGATE
  • 1 0
 @JoeRSB: weight balance?
  • 12 3
 @Chilliwacker: I believe these are all hypochondria symptoms of doilookcoolitis.

Or else you're just wearing the wrong pack. Or look like Quasimodo.

I wear a pack so the bottle argument is irrelevant to me, but seriously there's plenty of room in the front triangle of the Mega for a hydration source, it's just that normal water bottles are the wrong shape.

Could manufacturers not make custom shape bottles and mounts so they would fit into their frames?
  • 14 2
 Yep, no useful bottle mount on this sucks, but as always, why are frames conforming to the bottle industry??? There is space in the front triangle, just need a custom shape bottle. Additional sales, make stonks, easy.
Saying that, I do love my Nukeproof, and who said a bum-bag cant look cool, as long as its hidden under the jersey...
  • 9 0
 The 290c Factory is colored in "bottle blue". Oh the irony!
  • 2 0
 @Chilliwacker:and no spine protection
  • 4 0
 @Rstetina: Just use a fidlock bottle there.
  • 26 29
 Bottles and bottle cages suck. They are ugly, difficult to clean around, hard to reach when riding, can accidentally fall out and have possibility of dropping your bottle. Much nicer and easier to use small light weight hydration pack.
  • 16 5
 @in2falling: you all can write it down 10000 times but there are a lot of people i know (me include) they wouldn't buy a new bike without a bottle mount.

lucky enough other brands make great bikes with a bottle mount...
  • 1 3
 @Chilliwacker: This comment should have far more green arrows.
  • 4 0
 @JoeRSB: I put a bottle in that position for my GF. Fidlock offers a base with straps to go around a top tube. You can do the same thing with a Wolttooth B-Rad base and electrical tape. Both are secure. This is for her #2 bottle, but she drinks it first on the climb up so by the time she's really hammering it's empty and you don't notice it's there.
  • 2 1
 I guess water bottle mounts vary where you live I live in Socal where some of the trails aren’t that bad to climb and go down but other areas are crazy roots and drops where a pack would be a lot better but I feel a mount in the frame is a great seller then one without one
  • 13 2
 Bottles are for babies and Sam Hill ain’t no baby
  • 1 1
 @JoeRSB: If you ride hard on gnarly terrain (what this bike is made for) you will smash your knees on it there fairly regularly. I have a custom mount for my wahoo and it gets bumped once or twice a ride on average. The wahoo is wayy smaller/narrower than a bottle & cage.
  • 5 1
 @JoeRSB: All my bikes have them on the down tube. I don't mind it. Keeps weight lower on the bike. All you need is a Biddle with a nozzle cover - they are out there and they work just fine.

Might not work for everyone, but work fine for me.
  • 3 0
 I bought one of these bikes and now my friends just share their water with me Smile

I also do this thing where I leave a jug at bottom of hill and just drink down there every lap.
It isn't hot here.
  • 2 1
 @demo811: clearly. So sad it has everything else nailed...
  • 1 0
 I almost don't even care about it, and that's usually a deal breaker for me. Almost...
  • 1 1
 The trick is to just use an IV for your water.
  • 9 4
 Back in the days before Camelbaks were invented we searched for any way to get the weight of the water bottles off of the bike. It just seemed better to put the water weight on our body so the bike could be as maneuverable as possible under us. Seemed to really help when trail got fast and or technical. And then when jumps and drops came into play, well, trying to table your bike with a full water bottle on it... no brainer, git it off a there.
  • 2 0
 @Flavaine:
We have that in Phoenix...Bring on the Nukeproofs. LOL
  • 2 0
 @JoeRSB: I think it may be a width thing. Calves/ankles are farther from the farm as they go through their pedal stroke. Knees are much closer. So, if you put the bottle up higher I think you’d bump with your knees.

Just a guess.
  • 2 0
 @tobywaan: YT does it, have a look. Clever thing
  • 1 0
 People have flipped the shock and mounted a cage to the shock mount.
  • 5 1
 @Chilliwacker: I don't know Jeff Kendall-weed seems to fair not too badly with various packs.
  • 9 0
 @in2falling: I'd have to agree.. I don't even notice my packs anymore.. It is a non-issue.
  • 1 2
 There are enough good bikes out there that bottle cage and being available in ones favorite color are def part of the equation.
  • 1 1
 @excavator666: Why didn’t I think of that? Who’s says a bottle can’t be a rectangle!!
  • 2 0
 @JoeRSB: Barspins. Duh.
  • 3 3
 Sure this is definitely personal preference but since moving to a frame mounted water bottle and attaching my spare tube and tools to my bike downtube:

- My back gets less sore
- My riding center of gravity is noticeably lower which makes plowing through stuff easier and keeps me from going OTB.

With everything on my back I use to go OTB pretty regularly but since I did this I went this whole summer riding season without on OTB. I don't think this is coincidence. Riding like this just feels way less sketchy in steep, rough terrain.
  • 6 0
 F**k bottle cages, do you not see how epic those bikes are?!! LOL. Wink
  • 4 2
 @Chilliwacker: Dude there is no way you're carrying enough water for a three hour day on the trail, with one or two water bottles.
  • 6 0
 @in2falling: Exactly. Not only that, but you can't carry enough water for a three hour ride in the summer, with one or two stupid bottles!
  • 1 0
 @Victoriamike: tell that to Rude
  • 2 7
flag nlibot33 (Oct 4, 2019 at 14:01) (Below Threshold)
 @mybaben: who rides for three hours? And how many miles are you doing with that time I average 12-14 miles in an hour
  • 4 1
 @nlibot33: Seriously? Obvs you don't have any climbing and ride XC stuff. I live in the PNW and we have to earn our downs here. At my home trail system, I have an hour long, steep, service road climb, if I want to go all the way to the top. There are options lower on the mountain, which I take, but still a 35-40 min climb. We will do a ride from the top and then climb back up for one from the midpoint. So not a ton of miles, but it is a ton of climbing, and easily a 2-3 hour day! In the summer I need at least 2 liters of water and electrolytes.
  • 3 2
 People do realize there's a bottle cage mount on the down tube, right? Just use a bottle with a small lid or something
  • 4 0
 @escapegravity: Watch out. That kinda talk could catch you some down-votes around here!
  • 2 0
 Don't understand why they don't mount one on the underside of the top tube like guerilla gravity do. Maybe you could strap a fidlock there.
  • 3 1
 Whats wrong with a camel back ? Keeps your back cool while you ride and no need for extra weight on the bike ?
  • 1 0
 @Rstetina: Wait until e13 reads this.
  • 2 0
 @excavator666: I saw a dude with a rigged water bladder on an early edition mach 6. Made me wonder what the need for a rigid bottle was ...
  • 1 0
 @in2falling: you must be new to mountain biking?
  • 2 0
 @mybaben: totally make sense now right on man
  • 1 0
 @nlibot33: u serious? That's an average ride for me. Anything less and you're an outta shape mess!
  • 1 0
 @privateer-wheels: Exactly. I've got a Mega and the downtube location isn't a problem at all - just buy a bottle that has a cap. It's really not that difficult!

JP
  • 1 0
 @jimmythehat: They already have rectangular bottles, what's your point?

@stunnanumma1: Exactly dude, there are loads of viable solutions out there, but the need for water comes secondary to the need to perceive that one isn't perceived as looking uncool whilst riding their mountain bicycle.
  • 1 0
 @tobywaan: try this -

Instagram :- londonbroilbagshop
  • 1 0
 @f00bar: bottles are for babies and infants
  • 1 0
 Waters for the week
  • 1 0
 @Flavaine: its an Aussie adaptation, desert dwellers and such.
  • 1 0
 Or people that only do 1 hr rides @Chilliwacker:
  • 1 1
 @Chilliwacker: meant to upvote, sorry
  • 1 0
 @JoeRSB: you know I keep wondering that. I had a top of the top tube bottle on my mountain cycle Sam Andreas back in the 90's, with a somewhat flexible cateye bottle cage and it was really great. Such an easy place to grab a drink, and I didn't ever get hurt or hung up on the bottle.
  • 68 5
 How to turn a price friendly brand into boutique in a 5 years plan ?
Hire a sports star
Go racing and win

Aplies to bikes, cars, etc
  • 8 11
 Actually prices are not that far fetched... Although there are brands that are a lot cheaper, it's still a bang for the buck brand. People think they are expensive because CRC inflates the prices a bit because Nukeproof has become a brand that they want to see on stores.
  • 12 0
 Roughly a 1000£ bump from last year's RS Mega 275 Carbon bike... I don't think that's far fetched. Check out the build, it's nearly the same components too...

www.chainreactioncycles.com/de/en/nukeproof-mega-275-carbon-rs-bike-xo1-eagle-2019/rp-prod170240
  • 3 0
 @MrEtnie: That's the sale price. Normal RRP there's not much in it.
  • 4 1
 @MrEtnie: Prices are about the same. They go up 100 quid every two years but I think that's kind of the law for inflation. Has I have just said, CRC is not a reliable place to check the prices. They put their retail price about 10% up the real RRP.
  • 7 1
 As I understand their marketing strategy Nukeproof is more top-tiered and agressive/racier/gnarly and Vitus for best bang for buck/ traditional / beginner riding
  • 1 1
 @freebikeur you're right. Nukeproof are decent quality bikes for bikeshops that have a competitive price to go against the big brands. Vitus is consumer direct that you can only buy at CRC and Wiggle. Vitus frames are cheaper and have less quality.
  • 7 0
 I've been driving a Lincoln since long before anybody paid me to drive one
  • 3 0
 @Ogl1: My bad, I checked the pound price in location Germany and it was RRP £4236.9. now I checked the UK location and it's RRP £4999... Which still is kinda weird. :O
  • 2 0
 If I take Euro and just look at RRP, it's a 500€ premium. So still quite the difference.

Whatever, I wanted it and now I don't have enough cash, so I'm either gonna wait for discounts or get a different rig, or just continue to ride my 2017 Nukeproof Mega 290 Factory... Big Grin
  • 1 1
 Nah, nukeproof carbon frame onlys are £2.5k
Santa cruz £3.2k.

Thats still a massive difference.
  • 1 0
 I think people are wildly overestimating prices here (or maybe I'm just judging on US prices). The NX aluminum version with the Lyric Select is $3000. Given that it's CRC, it will probably be less soon if it's not an instant sell out. I'd be interested in that as a gravity focused bike.
  • 1 0
 @Richt2000: True. Equivalent price Santa Cruz Bronson only gets you the alloy frame and the 'S' build which is Cruz's second from bottom spec (£4000 for each one). Drooled over a Bronson but the parts package on the Nukeproof was what swayed it for me personally.
  • 16 3
 So disappointed in this, I love my medium alloy mega 290 and at 5ft 5” I can ride 29er’s without a problem, the 290 is the most balanced bike I’ve ever rode and now they have gone and upped the reach on the new version to a point where it would just be too long for me and they don’t make a small. Why does the industry think short people can’t ride 29ers???? My next frame will just have to not be something else or I will have to run the current 290 into the ground. For years all the tall people complained bikes where too small, now the short people are getting left behind, tall people have the option of 29 or 27.5.
  • 6 10
flag dick-pound (Oct 4, 2019 at 3:18) (Below Threshold)
 Why do short people think 450 is too long?
You can still get an M with a 30/35mm stem and 740/760mm handlebars as long as the seat tube is relatively short. I'm the same height as you and tried the Transition Sentinel S & M, felt way better with the second which has 450mm reach and bought it, the S felt really cramped. After 2 seasons using it, I still need to find a situation were it feels long.
  • 8 0
 @P-Munari: Being realistic 450mm reach is pretty long if you are 5ft5 - Nukeproof think so too which is why they start sizing at 5ft9.

Personal preference - sizing of this frame doesn't cater for the shorties (I would just about consider this 'perfect' at a fairly short 5ft8 myself)
  • 4 0
 I've got a 290 comp and it seems pretty bombproof.
If you're seriously considering the switch to a new one, you could buy one and take all the parts off it. Rebuild your old frame with all new parts and an angleset. Sell the new frame for 2G and use £500 of that on a new shock.

Hey presto, almost new bike, at a discount.

Not as good as a new bike, but almost.
  • 4 0
 I’ve ran a bike with 450mm reach before and it wasn’t for me, the mega already has 450mm chainstays which are actually the reason it’s such a well balanced bike but with a long front centre and long chain stays you really have to stretch across the bike to weight it equally, my medium has a 435mm reach which I have reduced to 425mm with stem stackers and longer forks, I like the balance and fit of the bike at that @P-Munari:
  • 1 0
 The 290 is a brilliant frame, I’ve broken a couple of front triangles but nukeproof have been really quick with warranty, I’m just worried when they run out of the old frames I’ll have to switch bikes as the sizing on the new one isn’t for me @jaame:
  • 2 0
 @craigyboy: I get you. It's not ideal is it.
  • 2 1
 They have the option of a small 290 but they don't get enough orders to produce it. Most brands nowadays build S, M and L 27,5" and M, L and XL 29".
  • 5 5
 Most brands must not have short people testing there bikes, 29 is just better regardless of your height @Amukinado:
  • 2 0
 @craigyboy: A lot of it with carbon bikes is cost - an extra mould to make for the small size which will likely sell in very small numbers compared to medium and XL - They could do a small alu frame fairly easily though.
  • 1 0
 For reference the 'reach too short' 2020 Fuel EX has a 440mm reach in the same size. It's very much the trend right now. I'm eagerly looking forward to the review which says this bike's cockpit is too short btw.
  • 1 0
 The minimum at the chart is 5’9
How tall is Sam Hill?!?
  • 2 0
 @Pyres: Bang on that I think.

He hasn't seemed to be into the whole long reach thing either, so I wonder how he is getting on with the increase in reach here.
  • 2 0
 @Pyres: 5'9
  • 1 0
 @craigyboy: better is a relative term. What's good for you might be bad for me. Wheel size itself does not make a bike better, otherwise brands would not give you the option of choice. Nukeproof have their opinion on wheel size. Doens't mean they're right... But also doesn't mean they're wrong.
  • 2 0
 I am 180cm and my ass has regular contact with rear tire. So the answer is - because care about your health Wink
  • 2 0
 @craigyboy: i´m 5ft 6" and i was told too many times that i should ride an S frame.. so i rode S and M sizes for the bike i currently own, and decided to get the medium! zero offset seatpost and supershort stem help a lot, but i really love how the bike handles! you can check out some pics in my profile!

i also think i prefer longer reach bikes because i´m used to the road bike more stretched position.. that helps a lot, and having more room in a longer reach bike is pretty cool
  • 1 0
 The seat angle is a degree steeper so their wont be much in it, 7mm by the top tube lengths, get a 40mm stem and your back to where you were, problem solvered.
  • 1 0
 @cutsnake: Reach measures your cockpit anytime you're standing and Effective Top Tube measures your cockpit only while seated. You are talking ETT not reach. The OP is worried that his body position while descending will be too stretched due to the increased Reach
  • 3 1
 @P-Munari: 450mm is way to long for someone who’s 5,5 I’m 6,3 and I ride 450mm most of the time.
  • 1 0
 @thenotoriousmic: agree, if you are 5ft5 this may not be for you. You seem to like bikes with conservative geo for your height though if you are that tall on a 450 reach.

Personal preference really, at least sizing seems to be falling in line with height a little more with less people ‘sizing up’ and talk people making do, shorter peeps maybe look elsewhere for now though.
  • 1 0
 @thenotoriousmic: same, these short guys are getting out of control
  • 9 0
 Said this respect to the Reaktor release, but I feel a bit of disappointment towards the 2020 model year bikes in terms of their overall value. Perhaps Brexit and US tariffs are playing some role in this, but I'm not a fan of the the shift towards mid and low tier Sram drivetrains, especially in light of how inexpensive Shimano deore, slx, and xt are. That said I love my Mega 290 alloy comp.
  • 10 1
 Totally agree that low end sram drivetrains blow compared to low end shimano. I would take SLX over GX any day. The high end sram stuff works well though.
  • 4 0
 Value is still better than the overwhelming majority of manufacturers out there. By hundreds and hundreds of dollars. Some, thousands. And strangely enough, the higher you go up the ladder, the better the value becomes. A full XO1 with Code RSCs and Ultimate suspension is EASILY 7k and up for anyone else. And even then, the other manufacturers still try to nickel and dime you by speccing lesser stuff here and there. Fox Factory with XT? Yeti's T1 Turq SB130 and SB150 builds are practically identical in terms of spec, but costs $1900 more.

For sheer numbers, yes, over $5000 is lot. But add some context to it like comparisons to other manufacturer's pricing and suddenly, it doesn't seem so bad
  • 1 0
 @Almazing: Totally agree! Yes, $4K and $5K+ is a lot of money for a bicycle! But compared to most others, and especially people like Santa Cruz, Yeti, Ibis, Pivot, you're going to need closer to another $3000 to get the build kits you're getting on Nukeproof. That Factory build is super sick and an awesome value, on both the Reactor and Mega.
  • 1 0
 @Almazing: You can find 2019 Trek Slash 9.8's for around or under 5k, depending on the shop. Thats better than the £4,299 they want for the 290 GX.
  • 3 0
 @motard5: Sure, but that's discounted pricing on leftover bikes. 2020 Slash 9.8s are $5900 brand new. 2020 Mega 290 GX builds are $4300 brand new. How is that pricing better than the Slash 9.8's again? Oh right. It's not. Trek stores are corporate stores. I personally know the owner of one, and there is absolutely no way in hell they'd even sell a new leftover 2019 Slash 9.8 for anywhere near $4300. Corporate won't let him. His profit margins wont let him. A thousand off is the lowest they'll probably go. $4900 is still MORE than $4300 last time I checked. I'm no math wiz... but my math checks out.

You can buy a fully kitted out 290c RS for $5300 with literally top of the line everything, have it be cheaper than a Slash 9.8(that has much lesser spec), and still have money leftover for a pretty good MTB trip.

As far as which bike is better, well, the Mega 290c won EWS this year. The Slash wasn't even on the podium. Take that however you want. Also, full disclaimer, I own a 2018 Slash 9.8,

In a year's time, whatever's leftover of 2020 Nukeproof bike stock will be discounted 10-20%, STILL making it less expensive than a discounted Slash 9.8.

Also, comparing discounted bike pricing to MSRP doesn't really count. I'll say that discounted price versus discounted price does. And MSRP versus MSRP does as well. But discounted versus MSRP does not count. Sorry.
  • 1 0
 @Almazing: The 290GX is £4,299, which is $5302usd, plus any import fees you may incur outside the UK?
  • 1 0
 @motard5: Wrong. 2020 Nukeproof bikes are now shown on CRC’s website. Replace the GBP symbol with the USD symbol and it’s the same numerically. CRC doesn’t seem to do conversions for now. Look it up.

www.chainreactioncycles.com/mobile/us/en/nukeproof-mega-290-pro-carbon-bike-gx-eagle-2020/rp-prod183299
  • 1 0
 @motard5: Also, duties are paid by CRC when shipped to the US. You pay shipping, and they take care of the paperwork. Ships directly to your residence with no delay or money owed to the courier. I think the most I paid for shipping was about $100.
  • 1 0
 @Almazing: Right on, thats great news. I always shied away from CRC...might have to take a look now!
  • 1 0
 @motard5: CRC doesn't have the best CS, but Nukeproof makes their bikes pretty robust and they're very well built. All the cracked frames I've seen are older aluminum bikes from like 2012 or 2013 and have been beat to shit. Aluminum has a life cycle so it'll break eventually, especially if ridden every day. Haven't seen any carbon Nukeproofs have issues thus far.
  • 4 0
 I swapped frames in part to get a bottle mount and I literally never use it. What the mounting bosses are very useful for however is mounting tools too. Air pumps, multi-tools, and so on. Even if there is no water bottle space, the frames should include the bosses and maybe a custom bag.
  • 10 5
 5k for a nukeproof when did that become a thing Brexit!!!!!
  • 3 1
 open wide, no teeth
  • 3 0
 It's actually very good value in comparison to YT, Canyon, and anyone else. Where can you get a Factory build for 5k in Carbon?

I challenge you to find me a non discounted bike with Factory Suspension and full Shimano XT for under 5k?
  • 1 0
 Value is still better than the overwhelming majority of manufacturers out there. By hundreds and hundreds of dollars. Some, thousands. And strangely enough, the higher you go up the ladder, the better the value becomes. A full XO1 with Code RSCs and Ultimate suspension is EASILY 7k and up for anyone else. And even then, the other manufacturers still try to nickel and dime you by speccing lesser stuff here and there. Fox Factory with XT? Yeti's T1 Turq SB130 and SB150 builds are practically identical in terms of spec, but costs $1900 more.

For sheer numbers, yes, over $5000 is lot. But add some context to it like comparisons to other manufacturer's pricing and suddenly, it doesn't seem so bad.
  • 1 0
 @wellbastardfast; Dude, I understand that's a lot of money, but it's practically the best build kit you can buy! What do you want?
  • 1 0
 @mybaben: the problem is that last year the same bikes were almost 1k cheaper with the same specs
  • 3 0
 did Sam Hill really ask for carbon version or just slackened bike with more travel ? please make alu version with the same geo
  • 3 0
 There are two alloy models and an alloy frame only option with same geo.
  • 23 0
 All Done for you... check the website
  • 3 0
 @Nukeproofinternational: hi Nukeproof, as often comes up on comments here and talk on the trail, a lot of practical minded people want the Factory spec (Fox and XT) on the Alloy frame, just like you used to offer. Eg the performance benefit of the better components on a cheaper package. I’m sure Sam Hill can reap the benefits of a carbon frame, but we all know most amateurs can’t. How come you don’t offer this option. Surely it’d be the most popular.
  • 1 0
 @Nukeproofinternational: thanks, missed that, are you planning on releasing frame only version of mega, don't see it on the website
  • 5 0
 @arte2k: yes we will have alloy and carbon frames just need to load them up too. Regards higher spec alloy frames, it’s something we looked at this year with the Worx 290, so will see for the future if there is demand.
  • 8 0
 @Nukeproofinternational: THERE IS DEMAND look at how positive the feedback was to the ripmo af, I’d buy an XT groupo alloy mega 290 in a heartbeat and I know there’s many in the same boat
  • 3 0
 @Nukeproofinternational: thanks for the reply. There’s definitely demand - when YT offer ‘limited edition’ high-spec alloy bikes they sell out in a day. And you guys sold out your Mega 290 factory super quick cos it was an amazing bike at great price. With your new geo that’d be my perfect bike (I’m a bit budget constrained...). With the tin-foil hat on, the suspicion is that there is higher margin on the Carbon at current prices, hence alloy drops out. Anyway, never mind, good luck with it, I’ll still be checking them out.
  • 1 0
 @aps62: I second this.

I saw the article and I was scrolling straight down to look for the alloy/fox/XT build.

One would be seriously interested in a Worx alloy bike with that new fox dhx2 coil shock and a 38 or 36. And the polished colour, if it's too big of a pain or cost, the right silver colour would look close enough to a real raw frame.
  • 1 0
 Sorry. Just checked the website. There is a silver one and it looks tidy!
  • 3 1
 www.chainreactioncycles.com/us/en/nukeproof-mega-290-expert-alloy-bike-nx-eagle-2020/rp-prod183307

strip the nx, buy SLX group+brakes on eBay, you're welcome
  • 1 0
 @Nukeproofinternational: That was quick! Y'all are responsive.
  • 1 0
 @aps62: I'd by the raw polished version with silver decals that Sam rode, stunning looking .. do that in xt or similiar..
  • 4 0
 to me factory xt version is a better spec and id take it all day over the RS... even tho my initials are RS
  • 1 0
 Not sure if these prices are correct. That would put the Mega Factory at $1140 US more than the Reactor Factory build. Does that seem right? Typically Trail bikes and Enduro bikes with the same build kits are fairly close in price. Travel difference in the forks and shocks doesn't matter...
  • 1 0
 Are you supposed to get some body modification or something if you meet either but not both of the height and leg length ranges for a given size?

or should you choose size based on one over the other?

I guess I must be odd given I don't conform (or there is a very odd sample that went into developing those numbers).
  • 3 2
 They should make water cage mount inside of front triangle, like Guerilla Gravity made it or some similar concept. On that way this bike would be much more desirable for majority of riders.
  • 2 0
 I don't disagree. However, the small Fidlock bottle underneath the top tube (above the shock) might fit on the larger sizes. Basically voile straps securing a base with a quick release mechanism between the base and bottle.
  • 3 0
 Sam says you gonna make more money if I win on more expensive bike! No water bottle, no UCI ban.
  • 1 1
 The builds look decent, but not for the price when the GBP to USD exchange rate is factored in.

I would want at least the XT build to get modern suspension technology, but that bike is $6k USD. I can get a LOT more for $6k from many other brands.
  • 2 0
 If pricing is remotely similar to the Reactor, which it is, the Fox XT with a DPX2 and GRIP2 Fork(which is thoroughly as modern as they come as of today) pricing should be identical to the Reactor's XT build which is $4900. Basically, replace the GBP symbol with the $ dollar sign and that's the pricing in USD. The Nukeproof 2020 bikes are also up on CRC's website if you wish to be more informed.

Let me make it easy for you:

www.chainreactioncycles.com/us/en/nukeproof-mega-290-factory-carbon-bike-xt-2020/rp-prod183293

I challenge you to find me a NON-discounted CARBON bike with Fox Factory Suspension and full Shimano XT for under 5k. Heck, let's make that challenge easier for you. Under 6k. Go.
  • 2 0
 @Almazing: Yes, i think something is off in the press release. I think those prices are USD, not British pounds. That would make an $1100 difference between the Mega and Reactor, which doesn't make sense.
  • 2 0
 @Almazing: thanks for the correction, that pricing should have had the USD $ symbol instead of the GBP £ symbol. These are actually good deals at that price, especially since CRC will pay customs.

*IF* we were still comparing bikes at the $6k price point, I'd counter with YT, Intense, and Guerrilla Gravity. But at $4800 the Nukeproof is definitely the winner.
  • 2 0
 @mybaben: Meant to tag you too.
  • 2 0
 @pnwpedal: thumbs up! Yep, Nukeproof is def still in there for high value! That Mega is on my very short list for a new bike next year!!
  • 1 0
 Did they make a whole new mould for the RS? I can see tweaking the HTA with an angleset, but unless they're cheating with a forward offset seatpost, changing the STA on a given frame is tough to do...
  • 3 0
 The rs has a longer fork 180mm which slacken the angles
  • 2 0
 @harrybrottman: D'oh! Of course...
  • 2 0
 I do not care if it has the bottle cage or not. I wonder how it rides under common rider !!!! Waiting for the review ................
  • 1 0
 You dont have to use a water bottle, but too design a bike that does not fit a bottle even if shock placement makes it more difficult is just down right stupid!!!!, not to mention marketing?
  • 2 0
 the way they've made that linkage to tuck in neatly with the shape of the frame is very tidy indeed. i approve.
  • 1 1
 For my height, leg length I would be on a small, yet that 601mm ttl is too small anf feel the bars in my lap, also that reach of 455mm is too small. I feel that they used seat tube length to gauge the bike.
  • 4 1
 How tall are you? 460 is a standardish size for a large frame seat-tube.

Some would argue if you don't have the legs for a 460 ST you dont need a reach longer than 455mm either, unless you like super long geo but NP are a mass produced bike, not one for the extremes.
  • 1 0
 @justanotherusername: 5ft 9. 5ish, I have short legs 30in but a longish body (freak) lol
  • 1 0
 @dagzin: A bit taller than me, I have short legs too but an equally short body so this works for me fine.

I reccon you could just squeeze on a 460 STL, wouldn't be able to use a long dropper though but being fair going by 'usual' sizing you are a solid medium.
  • 1 0
 @justanotherusername: I've just notice that, there's no small and thats a medium. (shocker).
460 is pushing it abit, seatube wise, but the top tube and rech is too short for me.
Large seems to be better, but the ttl is still too short.

Like you said tho is build for most people
  • 5 1
 450 mm chainstays ????
  • 1 0
 Yup, 2012 called, they want their chainstays back
  • 1 0
 This has "better" numbers than the new RM Slayer. Even reaching Cotic RocketMax geometry in some aspects. Color me intrigued.
  • 1 0
 We will always get all the informations about a Nukeproof bike. The components, the geometry... everything we need to know... except the WEIGHT, g*d damnit !
  • 2 3
 Good options are allways welcome!
But please, cut all those BS!

"It's a fairly big risk, making a whole new caron mold for a product, just because a racer wants to test it"

Who in it's right mind, will belive is such thing?

Not even Specialized (with all that budget they have) made one to Loic, nor do Pro Rides need such

Bikes are Overated, and the limiting factor it's the rider!
  • 2 0
 one more thing: NUKEPROOF, thank you for keeping ZS style headsets!
  • 2 0
 We mule the new design in alloy first (check sam’s bike for Val Di Fassa EWS). Once happy then we commit to Carbon.
  • 1 0
 @Nukeproofinternational: that Val Di Fassa EWS) bike was stunning, pls release that bike in a decent spec like XT or at least GX with good brakes;
  • 3 0
 450mm reach as a minimum?

You have got to be joking.
  • 3 0
 Needs a New Zealand distributor.
  • 1 0
 Yep. They are not cheap bikes here if bought off Crc after taxes are paid.
  • 1 0
 Why Sam Hill has a 165 and normal customers have 160 mm?
We might not notice that at all but from marketing point of view it is bad. We want Sam's bikeSmile
  • 7 8
 'Interesting that we made similar changes with last year's aluminium version that Kaz chose for his staff ride.'

Nukeproof definitely went with Kaz (and not the suggestions of a 3xEWS winner).
  • 6 0
 Hey man you never know, arte2k asked for an alu bike with same geo and Nukeproof did it in like 12 minutes
  • 2 1
 Not sure why this is being down voted. It is quite a stupid line from the author. Did they also make a new carbon front triangle? New HA? New STA? "Similar changes" my ass.
  • 1 2
 Showing my age: Looks (a bit) like a c2010 Lapierre Spicy

(images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1306941665300-uo7j57l30xwc-7f33f41.jpg?quality=90&resize=800%2C600)
  • 1 0
 how is that showing your age? Without looking at your profile you could be between 25 and 65 lol
  • 1 0
 All the water bottle stuff aside, how is Same actually hydrating during an EWS? Pack, or bottles in a bib pocket?
  • 1 0
 Sippy cup
  • 1 1
 Interesting that the Rockshox shocks come with the usual debonair can while Sam runs the megneg can. Translation: We're not Sam Hill and Nukeproof knows it.
  • 2 2
 The MegNeg might not suit everyone which is why it's not specced on any bike out there, as it might make it too progressive or too supportive, while some people want a really plush linear setup. Also another thing to tweak with volume reducers, while most people can't even set up a fork properly.
  • 1 0
 Right, the biggest expanding market of 2019 but they never intended to make a carbon version...
  • 1 0
 Beautiful piece. Where can I get some Michelin WildEnduros for my current bike though?
  • 1 0
 ...nevermind, found some on Jenson. Need to replace a DHRII rear tire.
  • 2 0
 @chacou: they are sticky AF. I have DHF/Rekon on one bike, WildEnduro on the other.
  • 2 0
 180mm fork on a 29er? My 290 factory with 170mm upgrade is savage enough!
  • 1 0
 Dealing with Nukeproof and CRC is a nightmare from a customer service point of view. Tempting, but pass
  • 1 1
 Is the bottle cage debate to be taken seriously? I always thought it was a joke. All "jokes" aside, why don't new bikes come in 27.5 anymore? Did Sram and the big guys win?
  • 1 0
 Agreed bottle cage mount might have been useful, I just use my new purchase now:-

Instagram :- londonbroilbagshop
  • 1 0
 I see a water bottle mount under the down tube....look at the pictures. C'mon man
  • 1 0
 Where is the medium-large size?
  • 2 0
 In the 275, the Medium is “ML” in the 290 as standard
  • 3 1
 Nukeproof are shortist.
  • 1 0
 Nukeproof sizing is interesting. 6ft to 6-4 recommended 465mm of reach.
  • 2 0
 Want the RS 29er YEW!
  • 2 0
 That SLX build is sick.
  • 3 6
 Love Sam's Nukeproof, but...EWS Enduro bikes are as extreme (highly specialized for competition) as DH bikes, and equally, un-usable for 95% of real world trail riding. essentially, they are perfect for lift service bike park...like a DH bike, but with slightly less high speed stability and less room for taleny-deficit-crisis. At the same time, though, they can be pedaled, they are pigs to self propel on the flat or climbs, and make most trails dreadfully boring. 150-180mm Enduro bikes are kinda useless... i'll take a snappy pedaling short travel bike with great geometry for fun and busy action on local trails, and my true DH bike for the parks for max speed and smash... EWS Enduro bikes are kinda dumb
  • 2 1
 You maybe right, but unfortunately if you are agressive trail rider, somewhere around 200+ lbs, then those light and pedally 120-130mm ”snappy” trail bikes will have a completely different meaning.
I’ll take a heavy and tough bike with more travel any day over that.
  • 1 0
 No goldilocks size for me l/xl
  • 1 0
 Full Geo?
  • 1 0
 29ers win medals.
  • 4 14
flag NikolaiB (Oct 4, 2019 at 5:37) (Below Threshold)
 Yup...and that’s about it. For everyday riding on everyday trails by everyday riders 26 or 27.5 wheels are, in reality, much better. But hey, marketing makes the chrome plated turd that is 29 wheels..what it is...
  • 2 0
 They sure smooth out the trail. It's not doping your blood to carry more oxygen, but it deff makes riding fast easier.
  • 3 0
 @NikolaiB: I'll stick with my 29er for everyday riding.
  • 8 0
 @NikolaiB: Please stop insisting that something is bad for everyone just because you don't like it. I love my slash and I'm sold on 29ers.
  • 3 0
 @NikolaiB: get a grip.
  • 1 0
 I like
  • 1 1
 ????????????







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