The HB.130 is the second bike to come from Hope’s Barnoldswick Factory and this week sees the famed component manufacturer launch a number of revisions to the spec and models of their bike. In the first year of production Hope have made and sold over 250 HB.130, not big numbers by any means, but for a handcrafted machine made in the UK, it's impressive.
This October sees the release of the 2021 models – the best ever spec’d HB.130. With new suspension from FOX, DMR Deathgrips and fresh drivetrain from SRAM, Hope have kept the 140/130mm travel, 29 wheels and modern trail geo too. This is a Hope bike of course, so you’ll find a full complement of Hope components in the mix as well.
Welcome to the HB.130 FR – A True Factory Racing Replica
It's long been a goal of Hope to move into painted frames and over the last year the company has invested in the staff and facilities to make that dream a reality. Each frame is obsessed over by the in-house paint tech Bailey. He is responsible for all the painted frames and his attention to detail is amazing, guaranteeing each frame comes out the booth looking stunning.
The FR is built to the same spec as the bikes ridden by our factory race team and features an Öhlins M2 fork and a TTX Coil shock. The FR replica is available in limited quantities due to the time it takes to produce each one so expect a slightly longer lead time.
HB.130 Dream Build
From the first cuts of the carbon prepregs to the final assembly of the complete bike, see what goes into building a HB.130 FR:
2021 HB.130 Upgrades and Revisions
Mullet Upgrade
The HB.130 can now be run as a mullet set up, thanks to a Factory test team approved Kit. The kit includes a revised rocker, Fortus 26w 27.5 real wheel and a Maxxis high roller tire. The Mullet kit allows the rider more control and maneuverability on tight and twisty trails while keeping the pedaling position the same.
Rear Hub Spacing
The design team has listened to customer feedback and taken the decision to switch from the HB specific 130x17 hub spacing to an industry standard 148x12 boost spacing. There is no gain in terms of performance, it just means that should an owner have an issue on a trip, it makes it easier to fit a standard wheel and enjoy the rest of their trip.
Each HB.130 is built to order and usually takes around 4-5 weeks to deliver. The 2021 bikes are now available to pre-order with the first bikes delivered early November.
The Hope HB.130 range is available direct from the factory or through our network of dealers. Head to www.hopetech.com for more.
View replies to: Hope Introduces the 2021 HB.130
Comments