Borealis Bikes

Echo X0/X9 Complete Fat Bike

Fat bike enthusiasts might question the logic of a suspension fork on their larger-tired steed. After all, don’t the tires act as ample suspension? We used to agree, but then the Borealis Echo X0/X9 Complete Fat Bike showed us what we’ve been missing out on. The Echo was built as a perfect partner to the RockShox Bluto suspension fork, and saying it adds even more fun to the equation doesn’t really do it justice. And while this is the most cost-effective Echo build offered by Borealis, it’s light, robust, and user friendly. If your other bikes aren’t worried about being neglected, they should be.

Borealis built the Echo frame by pairing cutting-edge carbon fiber construction methods with geometry that’s been optimized for the RockShox Bluto — the world’s first dedicated fat bike suspension fork. Beyond shedding grams, the composite construction has enabled Borealis to finely tune the ride quality, resulting in a strong frame that will hold up to heavy use. That’s particularly important, since the addition of the 100mm travel Bluto invites even more aggressive riding than the already surprisingly capable Yampa.

The profiling of the seatstays enables a degree of vertical compliance, while the oversized chainstays keep the pedaling responsive when you stomp on the gas. Like the Yampa, the Echo clears massive 4.8 inch tires on a 100mm wide rim. To achieve that degree of clearance, Borealis has relied on another industry first, namely a 197mm spaced rear hub, which is secured by a Maxle quick-release thru axle. The result is a dishless rear wheel, a surprisingly stiff rear end, and perfect drivetrain alignment with the 100mm threaded bottom bracket shell. Additionally, it provides enough clearance for a one or two-by drivetrain, regardless of your tire choice. Naturally, there's plenty of extra clearance for mud, snow, or anything else you're likely to find yourself riding through. The head tube is tapered, which takes advantage of the incredible stiffness provided by the Bluto. It's equipped with three bottle cage mounts, to keep you hydrated for long hours in the saddle. And at 1370 grams for a medium frame, it’s far lighter than it appears.

Of course, the Echo frame is mated to a RockShox Bluto suspension fork. SRAM's X9 drivetrain got the nod for the X0/X9 build, and it's capped off with an X0 rear derailleur. The crankset is a Race Face Ride setup, with 22/36t double chainrings for a wide gearing range. SRAM's BB7 mechanical disc brakes handle stopping duties, and the cockpit is primarily Race Face Evolve hardware with a WTB saddle. The wheels are Borealis' own hubset, featuring a 197mm quick-release thru axle out back, and a 135mm 15mm quick-release thru-axle front hub. They're laced with stainless spokes to Turnagain FR80 rims, wrapped in 3.8 inch Surly Knard tires, for a versatile, reliable setup.

The Borealis Echo X0/X9 Complete Fat Bike is available in four sizes, from Small to X-Large, and in the colors Black and Black/blue.