2012 Transition TR450 2 Bike

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The Transition TR450 is a great choice for dh riders looking for a bike park sled.

Ride Impression: The frame design is incredibly stout and you can feel it on the bike. Consequently, the bike tracks very well in the rough or through corners.  The TR450 suspension delivers a plush ride but is not mushy under power once you dial in the Fox DHX RC4 shock.  I have to admit I was skeptical of the "single pivot"  design but the linkage actuated design does not have any flaws that an average bike park rider will notice.  The TR450 feels good with the wheels on the ground but feels even better in the air.  I was instantly comfortable off jumps on this bike.   The bottom bracket height is not super low like some of the newer designs nor is it old school high.  I think Transition has found a nice balance between ground clearance  and cornering capability.

Durability: The TR450 is designed to withstand the abuse in the bike park with solid welds, oversized pivot bearings and simple suspension design.    Expect this bike to last for years with minimal maintenance.  However, durability comes with a weight penalty.  The TR450 will hover around 38/39 lbs with a solid build.

Component spec: The Boxxer RC fork, Sram drivetrain and Code brakes have performed well and you will like it if you prefer sram over shimano.  However, I was not a big fan of the wheel set- cheap and not built well IMO.  Rebuild the wheel set from the start.

Put this downhill bike on your short list of you are looking for a very good performing bike that will be stiff, durable and low maintenance.