Niner Bikes has just unveiled its latest model, a steel version of the popular RLT 9 gravel bike. Called the RLT 9 Steel, this new addition to Niner’s line sports similar geometry and updated frame features.
The RLT 9 was the 29er-centric company’s first dropbar model and almost as soon as it was introduced people began asking for a steel version. It would appear that Niner was listening.
Constructed from Reynolds 853, the RLT 9 Steel comes with a tapered 1.125-1.5in carbon fork with quick-release dropouts. Niner states that the RLT 9 Steel can clear a 700x40mm tyre with mud clearance to spare.
Like its aluminium counterpart, the RLT 9 Steel sports water bottle mounts on the seat tube as well as the top and underside of the down tube. It also has rack fender mounts integrated into the frame.
The RLT 9 Steel has plenty of mounting options for racks, fenders and panniers
Niner opted to use a Press Fit 30 bottom bracket shell allowing the RLT 9 Steel to be run with a geared drivetrain or set up as a singlespeed using Niner’s BioCentric II PF30 eccentric bottom bracket.
The geometry of the ferrous-framed RLT 9 Steel is nearly identical to its aluminium cousin
One notable divergence between the two models is that use of a 142x12mm thru-axle rear end on the RLT 9 Steel. (The RLT 9 uses a 135mm rear and with a quick-release.)
Pricing, specs and availability
Niner will offer the RLT 9 Steel as a frameset for US$1,499 and in five built kits ranging in price from US$5,999 to $2,499. (UK and Australian pricing has yet to be announced.)
Niner expects to begin shipping the RLT 9 Steel in April.
Claimed weights
The RLT 9 Steel will come in dirty white and red as well as forge grey and safety orange
Niner's claimed weight for the frame with derailleur hanger and 142x12mm rear Maxle is 2,386g. The claimed weight for matching full carbon fork is 628g, which brings the grand total for the RLT 9 Steel frameset to 3,014g.
Visit www.ninerbikes.com for more information.
