Evil Insurgent Custom Build Review

Evil insurgent V2

Title Components? 

This is what Brett Rheeder the founder had to say about the brand - 

"At first, Title wasn’t a brand; it was just a small idea. I needed components that could handle the abuse of freeriding at the highest level. Since I wasn’t excited about the options that were available to me, I decided to design the components myself. The idea progressed from producing a simple handlebar with minimal artwork and logos, into sketches and prototypes of more components like stems, seat posts and saddles. I knew that I wouldn’t be able to create a brand like this without drawing on the experience and knowledge of other riders. Making Title real required input from other riders who push the boundaries of what’s possible on bikes. Now, after two years of development, the brand is launching with products that we’ve designed, tested and proven at the biggest mountain bike competitions in the world. From Rampage to Crankworx, we’ve climbed to the top. Countless rounds of feedback from our team and prototyping with our factories have refined Title, and now we’re ready to share what we’ve been working on. It’s been a long road to get to this point, but short in terms of where we plan to go."

Brett Rheeder is an absolute legend in his game. Continuing his legacy via his brand of components

I've never felt bars like these, they're as stiff as a Peaky Blinders shot of whisky, in a good way. Certainly gives you the confidence they're upto the abuse they're designed for. 

People hear carbon and instanty tell you it's going to snap and be the end of you, but that'd be a cool way to go as far as I'm concerned. Jokes aside the customer support from Evil is awesome, like similar manufacturers, warranty has you covered, even in the result of a crash, writing off the frame you'll only pay a few hundred and a new one will be at your door in days. 

When I was buidling this bike Cykel House had just started become Ohlins dealers, so it would be rude not to spec some, eh? With lack of experience on the competition I can't compare but I can say Ohlins offer great adjustability. The twin piston three chamber air spring means you can adjust your bottom out rather than just initial stroke, infinitely. Most forks use tokens which not only make it less accurate but also still slightly stiffen the small bump sensitivity. Which is one thing you dont want.

Obligatory Burgtec Mk5 pedals. The only pedals I run on any bike

Cockpit

I've already spoke about my Title bars but for those interested I run 780mm width with a neutral roll, again, being on a size medium I want all that rise. I stuck with the stock Evil 12 Gauge stem as it's 35mm lengh gives great control, Evil's Palmela Handerson grips are super soft and comfortable too so no need for change there.

While I ran the stock Maxxis rubber to begin with the lack of DD or DH casing caught upto me riding Wharny' tech. After a session ending in a ripped sidewall I switched over to some Hutchinson Griffus Racing Labs and they're still going, albeit worn down after a season.

Whats the spec?

Frame - Evil Insurgent v2 - Slate Grey
Drivetrain - SRAM GX AXS Eagle with an XX1 Eagle black chain (longer lasting). 
Forks - Ohlins RXF36M.2
Shock - Rockshox Superdeluxe Ultimate Coil.
Brakes - Hope Tech 4, replaced by G2 Ultimate. 
Wheels - Industry Nine Hydra laced to DT Swiss EX511 rims (29/27.5)
Tyres - Maxxis DHF EXO+ 2.5, replaced by Hutchinson Griffus RL 2.5/2.4. (Slicy insert in the rear).
Handlebars - Title AH1 35x38 Silver
Stem - Evil 12 Gauge 
Grips - Evil Palmela Handerson 
Saddle - WTB Volt
Pedals - Burgtec Penthouse MK5 

Final Words

Evil Bikes have created some mint steeds, I honestly love this bike, I think it looks ace and rides even better. The only gripe I have is the pedal kickback from the Industry Nine Hydra hub can feel abit unpleasant, but at the same time I couldn't live without the engagment now i've had it. 690 points of engagement is an amazing feet for any hub maker. The closest is probably HOPE pro5 at 190. 

Hands down my favourite aspect must be the mixed wheelsize, having a 29er up front to plow the chunder, followed by the agility of a smaller rear wheel, whipping around corners is a breeze.

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