The IBIS Ripley V4 is a trailblazing evolution. It’s a significant update from the previous version.
With a refreshed geometry featuring a slacker head angle for stability, a steeper seat angle for efficient pedaling, and extended reach for comfort, it’s designed to elevate your trail riding.
This fourth-generation Ripley retains its 120mm of travel but now incorporates actual suspension links, enhancing stiffness while reducing frame weight. A trail bike that’s reimagined from tip to tail, the Ripley V4 is a fusion of innovation and performance.
In this informative post, we will mainly focus on the specs of the IBIS Ripley V4 frame.
A Look at the History of Ripley
The Ripley, a flagship trail and cross-country bike by Ibis, boasts Dave Weagle’s dual-link system and has seen four iterations.
The V1 ruled the trails from 2013 to 2015 with 120-140mm front and 120mm rear travel. The V2, reigning from 2015 to 2017, introduced upgrades like internal cable routing and a 1×11 drivetrain but retained the travel. Then, the V3, serving from 2017 to 2019, featured visible rear cables, increased stiffness, and 130-140mm front travel.
The current V4, since 2019, excels in agility, speed, versatility, and weight. An alloy version, the Ripley AF, shares the 120-140mm travel and will also be reviewed alongside the V4.
IBIS Ripley 4 Frame Geometry Specifications
There are 4 different sizes available for the frame. Here’s a chart that will help you with the geometry details:
| Size | Small | Medium | Large | X-Large |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Seat Tube Length (mm) | 381 | 419.1 | 457.2 | 508 |
| B. Top Tube Length (mm) | 560 | 585 | 610 | 635 |
| C. Head Tube Angle (degrees) | 66.5° | 66.5° | 66.5° | 66.5° |
| D. Seat Tube Angle (degrees) | 76.3° | 76.3° | 76.3° | 76.3° |
| E. Bottom Bracket Height (mm) | 337 | 337 | 337 | 337 |
| F. Chainstay Length (mm) | 432 | 432 | 432 | 432 |
| G. Wheelbase (mm) | 1165.5 | 1190.5 | 1216.6 | 1242.6 |
| H. Standover Height (mm) | 723.9 | 725.2 | 727.8 | 733.3 |
| I. Reach (mm) | 410 | 435 | 460 | 485 |
| J. Stack (mm) | 611.4 | 611.4 | 620.1 | 629.1 |
| K. Head Tube Length (mm) | 95 | 95 | 103 | 113 |
| L. Fork Offset (mm) | 44 | 44 | 44 | 44 |
| M. Fork Travel (mm) | 130 | 130 | 130 | 130 |
What’s New in the Ripley V4?
Here are the new features that make the Ripley 4 a good update over the previous generation.
Streamlined Cable Routing
In the IBIS Ripley V4 frame, cable routing has been significantly simplified. The introduction of molded-in internal tubes makes it effortless to thread housing through, eliminating the frustrations often associated with cable installation.
Threaded Bottom Bracket with ISCG Compatibility
IBIS has retained the threaded bottom bracket design, a popular choice among riders for its durability and ease of maintenance. Additionally, the Ripley V4 now includes a splined ISCG ring around the bottom bracket shell. This feature allows riders to confidently install a chain guide, enhancing the bike’s suitability for adventurous downcountry riding.
Optimized Seat Tube Length for Longer Droppers
The Ripley V4 marks a departure from lengthy seat tubes to accommodate modern, longer dropper seatposts.
For a medium-sized frame, riders can comfortably fit seatposts ranging from 170mm to 185mm. Even smaller-sized frames, such as the small, can accommodate seatposts between 125mm and 150mm.
Enhanced Water Bottle Compatibility
IBIS has expanded the Ripley V4’s water bottle capacity. The frame now accommodates a standard large-sized bottle with ease.
Riders looking for extra hydration capacity will be pleased to know that even larger bottles, like the massive Podium bottle, can be accommodated.
Standard Boost Hub Spacing
The Ripley V4 retains the “standard” Boost hub spacing rather than adopting the less common Super Boost configuration. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of wheels and drivetrain components. Furthermore, the Ripley V4 is designed exclusively as a single-ring bike, simplifying its setup and maintenance.
Modernized Geometry
In contrast to its previous iterations, the IBIS Ripley V4 features a more contemporary and progressive geometry. The frame now boasts a roomy 475mm reach for a large frame (450mm for medium), a significant increase compared to previous versions.
This adjustment aligns well with the bike’s steeper 76-degree seat angle, offering improved climbing efficiency and a more balanced riding position. These changes represent a departure from the traditionally conservative approach that IBIS has maintained over the years.
Revamped Suspension System
While the Ripley V4 retains its 120mm of travel and the renowned Dave Weagle-designed dw-link suspension system, it undergoes a radical transformation in terms of its suspension linkage.
Gone are the eccentric “links” of the previous models, replaced by actual links. This transition enhances lateral stiffness while simultaneously shedding weight, resulting in a more agile and responsive trail bike. The shift towards a more traditional dual-link layout reflects IBIS’s commitment to advancing the bike’s overall performance and handling.
IBIS Ripley 4 Frame Specifications At a Glance
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 2019 |
| Travel | 120mm |
| Rear Shock | Fox Float Factory DPS with EVOL, 190×45 |
| Fork | Fox Float 34 Factory Series 130mm, 29”, 15QR |
| Headset | Cane Creek 40 ZS44/ZS56 |
| Cassette | Shimano XTR M9100 12 Spd 10-51T |
| Crankarms | Race Face Next R 175 or 170mm, 32t Alloy Ring |
| Bottom Bracket | Race Face |
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano XTR M9100 12 Spd |
| Chain | Shimano XTR M9100 12 Spd |
| Shifter Pods | Shimano XTR M9100 12 Spd |
| Handlebar | ENVE M6 Bar 780mm |
| Stem | ENVE Mtn Stem 31.8mm |
| Grips | Lizard Skins Charger Evo |
| Brakes | Shimano XTR M9100 2 piston |
| Wheelset | Ibis S35 Carbon Rims / 29” / Industry 9 Hydra Hubs |
| Tires | Schwalbe Nobby Nic 29” x 2.6” |
| Seat | WTB Silverado Team |
| Seatpost | Bike Yoke Revive Dropper |
FAQ
Q: What is the rear shock used in the Ripley V4 frame?
A: The Ripley V4 is equipped with the Fox Float Factory DPS rear shock with EVOL, measuring 190x45mm. This shock is known for its performance and adjustability.
Q: Can I use different forks with the Ripley V4 frame?
A: The Ripley V4 is designed to work with a Fox Float 34 Factory Series fork with 130mm of travel and a 29″ wheel size. Swapping to a different fork may affect the bike’s performance and geometry.
Q: Is the Ripley V4 frame compatible with a chain guide?
A: Yes, the Ripley V4 features a splined ISCG ring around the bottom bracket shell, allowing you to install a chain guide with confidence for more aggressive riding.
Q: Can I use a longer dropper seatpost on the Ripley V4 frame?
A: Yes, the Ripley V4 frame is designed to accommodate longer dropper seatposts. For example, a medium-sized frame can comfortably accommodate seatposts ranging from 170mm to 185mm.
Q: What type of bottom bracket does the Ripley V4 frame have?
A: The Ripley V4 frame is equipped with a Race Face bottom bracket, known for its reliability and durability.
Q: What type of brakes come with the Ripley V4 frame?
A: The Ripley V4 frame is equipped with Shimano XTR M9100 2-piston brakes, providing reliable stopping power with precise modulation.
Q: Does the Ripley V4 frame come with a seat and seatpost?
A: Yes, the Ripley V4 frame includes a WTB Silverado Team seat and a Bike Yoke Revive Dropper seatpost, offering comfort and versatility for your riding needs.
Q: Are the tires included with the Ripley V4 frame?
A: Yes, the Ripley V4 frame is fitted with Schwalbe Nobby Nic 29″ x 2.6″ tires, providing a good balance of grip and rolling efficiency for various trail conditions.
Final Verdict
The IBIS Ripley V4 frame embodies the pinnacle of contemporary mountain biking, blending modern sizing and angles to create an exceptionally capable and thrilling ride.
Its slightly more forgiving suspension tackles rugged terrains with finesse, offering riders newfound confidence. What sets this frame apart is its unwavering commitment to fun and playfulness, ensuring an enjoyable experience for riders of all levels.
No doubt about it, the Ripley V4 frame encapsulates the perfect fusion of cutting-edge design and an undying spirit of adventure, making it a standout choice in the world of mountain biking.
