Zerode Taniwha
Monday, December 5, 2016 at 11:19AM ;)
Zerode bikes came to market offering a downhill bike with a high pivot and a modified Shimano Alfine located just above the BB. The bike proved to offer incredible bump absorption, pedalling ability and great reliability. Now 6 years later Zerode is about ready to launch The Taniwha a 160mm travel all carbon trail bike that is using a 12spd Pinion at the BB. The bike went away from the high pivot model to help keep it lively and is now using a modified Single Pivot with a link up high above the rear hub on the stays. Keeping the chain line constant will help to make the bike maintain a constant pedaling platform throughout the travel.
"In Māori mythology, Taniwha (Māori pronunciation: [tanifa]) are highly respected protective guardians, or in some traditions, stealthy, predatory beings. The Zerode Taniwha could be seen as both of these.
Fundamentally the Zerode Taniwha is about making the mountain biking experience better. Nothing inspires us to ride more than a quiet, low maintenance, confidence inspiring bike
The 12 spd pinion gearbox offers a huge spread of gears that goes well beyond today's 1x11. Whether you are grinding up an epic backcountry single track or blasting down a high speed fire-road there is a gear to do the job. An unexpected pinch climb will never be a problem again, changing gear is effortless and immediate.
A significant reduction in unsprung weight ensures suspension performance that is undeniably better than any Enduro bike equipped with a rear derailleur. Symmetrical spoke angle ensures a very strong, light rear wheel that further improves suspension performance.
A simple, effective and proven suspension platform combined with a fixed chain line optimizes pedaling performance through the entire travel range. It is difficult to approach the elegance and performance of this layout with any virtual pivot design.A sleek full carbon frame offers excellent stiffness, reduced weight and flawless beauty in a modern geometry.
Maintenance and tuning of gears are almost nonexistent, sprocket and chain life are massively extended. On a Zerode, that brand new drivetrain feeling happens every day.
For those that ride for fun, the Zerode Taniwha will inspire you to ride in any conditions on any trail.
If you are racing, whether it for an EWS podium or for bragging-rights amongst mates, the Taniwha provides an edge your competition won't have."
Zerode Taniwha Geometry
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The Pinion adds about 1.75 LBS over an Eagle group and the yellow bike that has been showing around the internet is supposed to weigh 31 LBS. We had our Insurgent built to 32 lbs so this would be high 33 with a DH type build. So you do have added weight. The benefit of removing 1.5lbs off the rear wheel is claimed to be very noticeable while riding the bike. Only time will tell and we hope to get one to review in the near future!
