Niner Bikes Launches the 2023 RKT 9 RDO

The foundation of Niner Bikes has always been about maximizing the speed, efficiency, and precision that 29-inch wheels offer. Nowhere is this better expressed than in the newly redesigned RKT 9 RDO. Now ready for liftoff, this all-new launch vehicle is our line-leading cross-country full suspension bike.

Updated with Niner’s patented 100mm CVA suspension system, remote front and rear lockouts, contemporary race-ready geometry, and our signature RDO carbon fiber, the newest iteration of our RKT 9 RDO packs efficient pedaling prowess and corner carving capability into a World Cup worthy package.

Designing the RKT 9 RDO, our product team deliberately focused first on race features. The frame is light and stiff, thanks to Niner’s RDO carbon fiber construction. The frame is made with a no-frills focus for fast flights into orbit. The geometry is aggressive and agile, for quick course corrections at escape velocity speeds. And the suspension travel is short and efficient, with a handlebar remote lockout for instant, extra rocket booster power if needed.

Yet, we all know that not all space missions are made in the name of science. For those riders who focus instead on fun laps into low-earth orbit, the updated RKT 9 RDO is built for versatility and a playful, trail-friendly attitude. Responding to many riders’ requests for capability in the face of any feature, and also accommodating the technical demands of modern cross-country racecourses, a geometry flip chip allows for more relaxed frame angles. Clearance to fit wide, 2.5-inch tires and a 120mm suspension fork expands the universe of possibilities. The seat tube fits a dropper post, and the long, low-slung frame is made for stability at atmospheric reentry speed.

The new RKT 9 RDO is available in two colors: Blood Red/Silver and Nude Carbon/Silver. Niner expects frames and build kits available to ship by September 2022.

THE 9 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW:

• CVA rear suspension, 100mm front and rear with remote lockout.
• 29x2.5-inch tire clearance.
• Contemporary XC race geometry with flip chip.
• Smooth, straight full-sleeve internal cable routing.
• Short and straight seat tube to fit dropper posts.
• Durable, long-lasting Enduro Max Black Oxide pivot bearings.
• Trunnion shock mount for smooth articulation and added stiffness.
• Two bottle cage mounts plus accessory storage mounts on top tube.
• Clean, inboard rear brake caliper fitment.
• Sizes available: XS, SM, MD, LG, XL

RACE ROCKET HIGHLIGHTS:

• Agile head tube angle: 68 degrees.
• Steep seat tube angle: 75 degrees.
• Efficient 100mm CVA suspension
• Remote front and rear suspension lockout (3-5 Star Builds only)
• Short, 430mm chainstays.
• Lightweight Race Day Optimized carbon frame • Extra wide seat tube rocker link pivot with 2-row bearings for torsional rigidity.
• One water bottle mount inside the main frame and one under down tube, all sizes
• Cargo mount on top tube
• Lifetime Warranty

“TRAIL COUNTRY” FEATURES:

• Ready to fit a 120mm travel fork.
• Flip chips at lower shock mount for adjustable geometry. • Clearance for 2.5” tires
• Stable yet supple, consistent and controlled CVA suspension tuning
• Trunnion mount rear shock for smooth articulation • Long reach and low BB for stability
• Short stems and wide bars welcome
• Short, straight seat tube and easy internal cable routing for dropper posts

FRAME FEATURES AND CONSTRUCTION DETAILS:

• Compact, 1-piece rear triangle
• Sag indicator on the rocker link pivot.
• Enduro MAX Black Oxide pivot bearings for extreme durability.
• Cable keeper wickets on seat tube for tidy routing
• Drain holes on shock pocket
• Durable, molded frame protection under BB and on chainstay
• Smooth, straight Full Sleeve internal cable routing - no fishing required.
• 73mm threaded bottom bracket
• SRAM UDH; 1x - specific

Head to Ninerbikes.com to learn more

View key specs, compare bikes, and rate the new Niner RKT 9 in the Vital MTB Product Guide.