Ibis HD6: The Evolution of Enduro Excellence

The Ibis HD6 represents the next step in the evolution of one of the most iconic enduro bikes in the history of mountain biking. Crafted with input from Ibis’s Enduro World Cup team and building on the legacy of the Ripmo and HD series, the HD6 boasts increased travel, a reimagined suspension layout, and a mullet wheel setup that ensures both stability and maneuverability.

Geometry & Wheel Setup

• Mixed Wheels for Optimal Performance: The HD6 features a 29” front wheel paired with a 27.5” rear wheel. This combination, bolstered by 180mm of front travel and 165mm at the rear, strikes a perfect balance between stability and agility. The larger front wheel smooths out rough terrain and maintains momentum, while the smaller rear wheel enhances cornering precision and quickens acceleration out of tight turns.
• Optimized Frame Geometry: With a slack 64-degree head tube angle (one degree slacker than the Ripmo), the HD6 is built for tackling the steepest and most technical descents with confidence. The bottom bracket height, similar to the Mojo HD5, ensures that the bike feels planted, while the chainstay length is identical to the Ripmo, maintaining stability even with the 27.5" rear wheel.

Suspension & DW-Link

• All-New Suspension Layout: The HD6 introduces a completely redesigned suspension layout that is progressive enough to be sensitive on small bumps yet supportive enough for big hits. The design is fully compatible with coil shocks, making it perfect for long enduro stages where air shocks might struggle.
• DW-Link Efficiency: Despite the new suspension layout, the HD6 retains the proven DW-Link platform, known for its climbing efficiency and descending prowess. The system minimizes the need for overly damped shocks, allowing the wheels to track the ground better and providing the "hover-bike" feel that Ibis bikes are famous for.

Traction Tune & Bushings

• Custom Traction Tune: Ibis has tailored the suspension with extra-light high-speed compression and rebound damping to maximize traction over rough terrain. This tune helps the bike maintain composure at speed, letting the wheels glide over obstacles with minimal resistance.
• Low Maintenance Bushings: The HD6 uses IGUS bushings in the lower linkage, which are lighter, stiffer, and virtually maintenance-free compared to traditional bearings. Ibis is so confident in these bushings that they offer a lifetime replacement guarantee.

Premium Carbon & Design

• Lightweight, Durable Frame: The HD6 is constructed from high-grade carbon fiber, resulting in a frame that weighs less than 6 lbs without the shock. Complete enduro-ready builds can weigh as little as 32 lbs, making it one of the lightest bikes in its class.
• Internal Cable Routing: Ibis uses carbon fiber tubes molded within the frame for internal cable routing, ensuring a clean, snag-free look and easy maintenance. The design keeps the cables secure and protected while enhancing the bike's overall aesthetic.

Protection & Warranty

• Investment Protection: The HD6 comes equipped with a thick rubber downtube protector and a chainstay protector with raised sections to dampen chain slap noise. Additionally, the linkage protectors shield the bike from mud and rocks, keeping it looking pristine no matter how rough the ride.
• Lifetime Warranty: Ibis backs the HD6 with a lifetime warranty, ensuring that any manufacturing defects are promptly addressed.

Specifications

• Fork: Fox Float 38 Factory Series, 180mm Travel, 29”, 110x15mm
• Shock: Fox Float X2 Factory Series with EVOL, 230mm x 65mm
• Wheels: Shimano XT/AL Wheels
• Tires: Maxxis Assegai 29” x 2.5” (Front) / Maxxis DHR 27.5” x 2.4” (Rear)
• Brakes: Shimano XT M8120, 4-Piston with 203mm Rotors (Front & Rear)
• Cranks: Shimano XT M8120, 24mm Spindle, 32T Alloy Ring
• Bottom Bracket: Shimano XT MT800
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano XT M8100 Shadow Plus, 12-Speed
• Shifters: Shimano XT M8100, 12-Speed
• Cassette: Shimano XT 10-51T
• Chain: Shimano XT M8100, 12-Speed
• Chain Guide: MRP AMg SE
• Headset: Cane Creek 40 ZS44/ZS56
• Grips: Lizard Skin Charger Evo
• Handlebar: Ibis 800mm Hi Fi Bar
• Stem: Industry Nine A318 (S/M: 40mm, L/XL: 50mm)
• Seatpost: Bike Yoke Revive Dropper (S: 125mm, M: 160mm, L: 185mm, XL/XXL: 213mm) with a 250lb rider weight limit
• Saddle: WTB Silverado

Conclusion

The Ibis HD6 is a formidable enduro machine, combining innovative design with proven technology to create a bike that excels in the most demanding conditions. Whether you’re racing the Enduro World Series or exploring your local trails, the HD6 offers the perfect blend of stability, agility, and durability, ensuring you can tackle any challenge with confidence.