Niner Bikes' new Air 9 Carbon hardtail was the star big wheeler of this year's Interbike trade show. The 29er is due to hit shop shelves in the new year, and the California-based company have given details of pricing and released these new images to whet your appetite.
Billed as "the ultimate, lightweight race frame", the carbon monocoque chassis can be run geared or singlespeed. Unusual features include moulded carbon dropouts, built-in carbon brake hose guides and a magnesium head badge with internal gear cable routing.
There's a tapered head tube up front to increase strength and improve steering precision. Down below, there's Niner's 73mm CYA eccentric bottom bracket with titanium protector plates. This can be adapted to take different BB types (eg. BB30, X-Type) using a range of inserts.
The carbon frame will cost US$1,899 (UK price TBC), and prospective customers can reserve one with a $500 deposit. Frames are expected to be delivered to dealers in "late winter 2010". The Air 9 Carbon will be available in four sizes (S/M/L/XL) and two colours – 'Tang' or 'Vana White'. Weight has yet to be confirmed.
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