Whyte’s offering in this hotly contested sector is the T-130. Based around 27.5″ wheels, a long and slack geometry and the usual forward thinking from this progressive brand, we’re excited to get pedalling!
So who is this bike for?
The Whyte T-130 will suit a variety of riders, but this bike is screaming ‘pick me!’ to riders with an aggressive style. Attributes such as 27.5″ wheels, short 420mm chainstays and a 67 degree head angle mean the T-130 can be thrown around, and also punch above its weight in more technical terrain. We’ll be taking this bike on some trails normally reserved for longer travel steeds to see just how capable it is.
What do I get for my money?
Whyte place priority in their customers knowing their bikes are for riders, by riders. This is reflected in the T-130C RS’s specifications. For $6999, the bike represents a well rounded, premium offering.
The build on the T-130C RS is almost exclusively SRAM. The drivetrain is the new Eagle XO 12 speed group, which we applaud as Eagle’s huge range should mean that the bike having no front derailleur mount shouldn’t be an issue.
The suspension is handled by RockShox with the proven Pike/Monarch combo (Pike RC and Monarch RT3), and the brakes are Guide RS’s. The stealth routed RockShox Reverb rounds out the SRAM cockpit, which allows for the use of matchmaker clamps throughout and a very uncluttered handlebar.
The wheels are Raceface ARC-30’s with, you guessed it, 30mm internal width. Whyte have stocked the bike with a beefy Maxxis High Roller II on the front in the super-grippy 3C compound, and a faster rolling Maxxis Crossmark II out the back.
What are some unique features of the bike?
Whyte’s UK heritage shines through when you take a closer look at this bike. Rubber grommets seal the internally routed cables, a rubber stopper is used at the seatpost to avoid water getting into the frame and the bearings are all weather-sealed with bearing caps. Whyte are so confident in the bearings they offer a lifetime bearing replacement. Built to be ridden in soggy British winters, the bike also features fender mounts on the underside of the downtube.
Another well-thought out feature of this bike is the brakes, which are not mounted directly into the frame in case the thread becomes rounded, but attached via a barrel thread that inserts into slots on the brake mounts.
We’re excited to get out on the trail and see if this bike lives up to expectations, so stay tuned for the full review!