This version of Niner's RKT 9 RDO 3-Start build features the current generation of this excellent XC frameset and a super affordable SRAM GX Eagle 1x12-speed mechanical drivetrain. Fox Factory supplies the frame and fork, while DT Swiss, Schwalbe, and Niner round out the build kit on this reachable pricepoint mountain bike.

The RKT 9 RDO is Niner's true XC race full-suspension frame design, one that is capable of so much more. This 2nd generation frame was developed to maximize either 100mm or 120mm forks. It's strange, but for many the RKT 9 is a true XC Trail bike now, but it owes this to Niner's suspension experience with 29" wheels the strength of the frame. It's simple, the 90mm suspension feels like a longer travel bike- especially with the 29" wheel and Niner CVA suspension. It's controlled by a Fox Float DPS 3 shock, the rider can pick and choose feel and response based on trail or course requirements. Niner has embraced Boost spacing for the rear, pushing out to 148mm for incredible rear triangle and wheel stiffness, with the ability to run a true 2.4" tire. Shorter chainstays and wheelbase bring the handling within millimeters of the Air 9 RDO hardtail in full suspension frame that weighs under 4.5lbs. The RKT 9 RDO exudes speed and control and is ready for anything from XC trail to XC race through Marathon and epic racing.

Niner's patented 29er specific suspension design is call CVA, for Constantly Varying Arc travel and has been optimized for 90mm travel. The RKT 9 Carbon RDO is smooth and efficient, driven by the CVA/RKT 9 specially tuned (DDS2) Fox Float DPS shock. The set-up allows the rider to easily select the most effective platform for the conditions. Geometry is almost identical to Niner's hardtails and has been optimized for a 120mm fork. The real benefits of RKT 9's CVA and the Boost rear end is how the chainstays drop to 440mm from the Jet 9's 455mm, and how much stiffer the rear triangle is overall.

The Fox Racing Shox SC 34 Float Factory Fork with its plush 120mm travel, Boost 15/110mm spacing, and 44mm rake is great complement to the overall build. It features tunable three-position settings, with the latest EVOL canister delivering consistently. The fork provides a perfect overall balance for the frameset, despite the travel difference front and rear. You have to ride it to appreciate it. Yes, you can run this design with superlight XC wheels and tires and save serious overall weight, but again, many see the RKT 9 RDO as an XC Trail/Trail option so with this wheelset you get a beefier DT Swiss M1900 wheelset and a front and rear specific Schwalbe tire combination that rolls fast, but will hold technical corners at speed.

The kit details are all below, but this is a well-equipped bike that relies on the durable value and solid performance of SRAM's GX Eagle 12-speed mechanical 1x12 drivetrain. SRAM's GR R disc brake lever and caliper system grabs ahold of their Centerline X disc rotors (F-180mm, R-160mm) with the proper blend of power and feel. It is true, a GX build isn't the lightest option out there, but as Eagle12 components are cross compatible, you can upgrade over time as you have some cash to spend. In the meantime you get an extremely capable and fun to ride carbon frameset and simple but great shifting range from the 10-52T cassette.