Nukeproof Introduces 2019 Bike Range, ARD Tire Insert and Lightweight Coil Springs 9

2018 saw the launch of the new Mega 275c: The bike that, along with riders Sam Hill and Elliott Heap, just wrapped up its third Enduro World Series title (2 for Sam Hill, 1 for Elliott Heap). For 2019 the Nukeproof Mega range gets even better: with some subtle refinements, upgraded specifications and the introduction of a new model. We have also been working to improve our already awesome "hardcore hardtail" Scout, with the best line up to date and we have created something a little different with the Digger gravel/adventure/hack bike. We are proud of our Belfast home and with much of the color schemes in the range inspired by early 90's rock and punk posters, we headed to one of the most iconic venues in the city to shoot the new range: The Empire Music Hall. 

2019 NUKEPROOF MEGA 275C & 275

The Mega 275c was launched late last year, so the new 2019 models simply offer subtle refinement to the frame and finishing kit. It retains its EWS-winning gravity focused geometry, but gets the addition of the latest offerings from RockShox, SRAM, FOX and Shimano. This, combined with the fact that all the 2019 Mega models use the brand new Michelin Wild Enduro tires and latest Nukeproof components including wide bars, short stems, Horizon SL saddles and Sam Hill Signature grips, adds up to a race-ready package straight out of the box!

We were chatting last year in Finale, just saying what bikes do you want for next year? Sam came over from the breakfast bar with a blueberry and just said "Make it that color."

New for 2019, the Mega 275 Carbon Pro brings carbon to our core of the range: giving riders the choice of three different specification options of Carbon (RS, Factory & Pro). We wanted to create a bike that was uncompromising, featuring products that would stand the test of time. Suspension is taken care of by the very latest RockShox Lyrik RC fork and Super Deluxe RC3 rear shock. With updated contact points, a SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain, Michelin Wild Enduro tires and brand new Mavic Deemax Elite wheels: you have a great performing and reliable spec list that is more than ready for any round of the EWS.

It’s not all about the high-end price tags; not to be overlooked are the Mega 275 and 290 Comp models. Always one of our top sellers, we’ve updated the Comp level specification to include a SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain and the latest RockShox Yari Charger RC fork so it’s just as ready to ride, race and enjoy as its more exotic siblings.

We’ve had the Mega 290 as an alternative option to the 275 for a long time now. Both are intended for the same purpose, but for riders that prefer 27.5” or 29” wheels. Year on year 29” interest seems to grow and we have further improved offerings with the awesome Mega 290 Factory, Pro and Comp models. With a new 290 Alloy frame launched in 2018, the Mega 290 has been a huge success. The question we will usually be asked is, “Why no carbon?” We’re not saying never, but until we can produce a frame that we feel offers significant advantages over the alloy sibling, we will hold off.

For those riders who wish to build their own custom dream bike, we offer an awesome unique color to the carbon frames only. It’s a hell of a lineup.

As a note for riders, all 2019 Nukeproof Megas (RockShox and FOX equipped) will come with two volume spacers in the rear shock. With these shocks being so easy to tune, we wanted to give our riders to option to be able to add/remove to tune the shock to their personal preference.

2019 NUKEPROOF SCOUT 

Whilst the Mega gets the limelight, there is still something about riding a great hardtail. Unlike suspension bikes, they don’t compensate for lack of skill and are great for both beginners and experienced riders. They teach you to ride properly and help more experienced riders hone your skills, riding smooth and efficient as you have to pick the best lines to carry speed. Its low-slung frame with slack geometry make the Scout a playful and hard-hitting trail weapon that is ready for adventure. It’s a truly versatile machine, designed to rail berms, ride dirt jumps and explore trails. Available in both 275 and 290 spec and in three models (Comp, Race & Sport), there are plenty of options for all tastes and budgets. The main difference between the two wheels sizes are that the 275 uses 2.6” tires to offer that little more damping on the trail, whereas the 290 is all about flat-out speed and rolls on 2.35”. Regardless of tire size, quality Maxxis tires are used throughout the Scout range.

The Digger is essentially a super versatile alternative bike for mountain bikers. It wants to get you out exploring, regardless of the surface under your tires.

Although it is perfect for commuting to work or meeting friends at the pub, it wants you to turn off the asphalt and onto the dirt. You can now take that muddy shortcut on your commute or to try the longer off-road way instead. The key to its versatility lies in the fact that it can take all manner of wheels and tire sizes. It will take anything from a 700c wheel with 45c tire to a 27.5” wheel with 2.3” tire. It will even take a 29” wheel with up to a 2.1” tire. On top of this, we have designed in a removable seatstay bridge so you can have mud clearance when you want or you can choose to run full proper mud guards to keep you clean.

Our Diggers are spec’d as a mountain biker would want: bolt-through axles, disc and 1X specific with dropper post capability and a wide handle bar for confidence, even in the drops. Both Digger models come fitted with a carbon fork for comfort and clearance, 15x100mm / 142x12mm bolt through hub spacing, flat mount disc brakes, 27.5" wheels fitted with fast-rolling 47c WTB Sendero Road Plus tires that, crucially, are more than capable off-road too. Unlike most bikes in this category the Digger is 1X specific and enables you to fit a dropper post to get the saddle out the way when your pushing the limits off-road. The Pro model comes fitted with a BX Ascend seatpost with 120mm drop as standard. The drivetrain for the Pro (Blue/ Copper) and Comp (Concrete Grey/ Black) are kept simple and clean with SRAM's new 1X Rival (Pro) and Apex (comp) systems. 

BIKE AVAILABILITY 

• Mega 275c/ 275/ 290: Out NOW
• Scout 275/ 290 WC: November 19th
• Digger: December 10th

ARD TIRE INSERT

The Nukeproof ARD tire insert has been developed as a solution for riders running a tubeless setup to help prevent rim damage on rocks while allowing you to run lower pressures. As ARD protects the rim and also helps protect against punctures.

Development started two years ago as we noticed that there was an issue with rim protection and punctures when running tubeless. Other brands released tire inserts, but after trying them we found that they were still not fully effective. We met with a foam specialist and they had a new material available which was lightweight but with high density levels.

ARD shrinks slightly when the tire is inflated, making it easy to install. ARD is secure on the rim to minimize noise. We have modified the valve to ensure that the tire can still be easily inflated and deflated when ARD is installed. The annular insert is easy to fit and protects against pinch punctures, rim damage and de-seating of the tire beads.

Nukeproof has a patent pending on the shape and design of ARD.

INCLUDES

• (2) ARD inserts
• (2) Copper tubeless valves
• (1) Sleeve around the ARD inserts
• (1) Instruction sheet

FEATURES

• Available for 27.5” and 29” wheels
• Works with rims from 19 to 35mm
• Closed cell technology (won't soak up sealant)
• Weight: 130g
• Easy to remove and fit tire, no tools required
• Pinch flat protection
• Rim protection
• No sealant absorption
• UK RRP £49.99

SUPER LIGHT STEEL ENDURO SPRINGS

The Nukeproof 2.25” - 2.5” SLS spring has gone through a unique heat treatment process to alter the chemical composition of the metals. Our unique process changes the silicium/chromium/steel alloy mix to produce a super hard, yet lightweight metal that will withstand the highest demands inflicted through MTB.

To prevent shock rub, the spring is bi-convex in shape. This will allow the spring to progress freely without any friction when under load.

Up to 40% lighter than a steel spring, this hardened super-light steel (SLS) spring has been designed to fit most rear shocks on the market by using Nukeproof’s unique reducers and spacers.

FEATURES

• For 2.25 to 2.5” shocks
• Hardened super-light steel (SLS)
• Bi-convex in shape
• Fits most rear shocks on the market
• Includes reducers and spacers
• 350 to 600lb range

2019 will be an exciting year for Nukeproof, so watch this space. 

For more information, including prices, specs, bike geometry and more, head on over to: www.nukeproof.com.