14.8 kg in size XM | € 7,448 | Manufacturer’s website
Californian bike manufacturer Ibis still flies under the radar on this side of the ocean, but it has repeatedly proven its ability to build top-tier bikes – most recently with the HD6, which won our enduro comparison test.
The Ibis Ripmo generates 160/150 mm of travel. The XT spec variant we tested tips the scales at 14.8 kg in size XM (between M and L), thus placing right in the middle of our test field in terms of weight. Retailing at €7,448, the Ripmo is one of the more affordable bikes in this comparison.
The wheel configuration depends on the frame size: in size XM, the bike rolls on 29” wheels but can be converted to a mullet bike.
For an overview of the test field head to our “Best trail bike of 2025” comparison test – 16 of the most exciting trail bikes in our 2025 group test
The Ibis Ripmo XT in detail
With the new Ripmo, Ibis introduce a new design language that relies on clean, straight lines and sharp edges, and replaces the previously curved, organic tube shapes. One of its most striking features is the sleek matte green finish, which gives the bike an elegant look.
The cables are routed internally and, while not clamped at the ports, are completely silent on the trail. The rear end is impressively quiet too, which is mainly due to the generously sized protector that extends over the seat and chainstays – perfect for a noise-free trail experience. A TPU plate on the downtube extends all the way to the bottom bracket, and is complemented by a shuttle guard, which prevents chafing when you throw your bike on the back of a pickup truck.
The new Ripmo is the first Ibis bike to feature an integrated storage compartment. Positioned beneath the bottle cage, it’s flawlessly executed and has a big opening, with a secure closure mechanism ensuring easy operation – even with a bottle in the cage and with gloves on. The compartment comes standard with two stylish storage pouches, which were developed in collaboration with Cotopaxi– a nice little touch. However, Ibis forgo an additional tool mount.
The spec of the Ibis Ripmo XT
The Ibis Ripmo XT comes with a well-thought-out spec that was chosen uncompromisingly for trail performance. The 160 mm FOX 36 Factory GRIPX fork offers countless adjustment options and delivers a tremendous performance on the trail – it was recently awarded top marks in our fork comparison test. At the rear, a FOX FLOAT X Factory shock controls 150 mm of travel.
The 185 mm BikeYoke REVIVE dropper post functions reliably but slightly limits freedom of movement on the trail – by comparison, the test average for dropper travel is 197 mm.
Braking is handled by Shimano XT brakes with a 200 mm rotor at the front and a 180 mm rotor at the rear. For long, steep descents, we recommend upgrading to a 200 mm rotor at the rear, which ensures better heat dissipation, thus delivering a more consistent braking performance.
Shimano also supply the XT drivetrain, which delivers butter-smooth, dependable shifting performance. The in-house Ibis Blackbird HiFi carbon handlebars feature a clever adjustability option: threaded aluminum inserts allow you to set the width between 750 mm and 800 mm or cut it down to any length in between.
The robust Blackbird Send aluminum wheelset excels on nasty root carpets, adding extra composure. For an additional €1,000, Ibis offer an optional upgrade to Blackbird carbon rims.
The rims are paired with a MAXXIS ASSEGAI up front and a MAXXIS Minion DHR II at the rear, both in the EXO+ casing and harder MaxxTerra rubber compound. For better grip and control, you might want to consider upgrading to the softer MaxxGrip compound at the front. If you want a more durable rear tire, you could swap the standard tire for one with the tougher Doubledown casing.
Ibis Ripmo XT
€ 7,448
Specifications
Fork FOX 36 Factory GRIPX 160 mm
Rear Shock FOX FLOAT X Factory 150 mm
Seatpost BikeYoke REVIVE 185 mm
Brakes Shimano XT 200/180 mm
Drivetrain Shimano XT 1x12
Stem Blackbird 50 mm
Handlebar Blackbird HiFi Carbon 800 mm
Wheelset Blackbird Send Alu 29"
Tires MAXXIS ASSEGAI MaxxTerra EXO+/MAXXIS Minion DHR ll MaxxTerra EXO+ 2.5"/2.5"
Technical Data
Size SM MD XM LG XL
Weight 14.8 kg
Specific Features
Storage compartment
Tool Mount
Flip Chip
Mullet compatible
Tuning Tip:
– Front tire with softer MaxxGrip rubber compound
– big 200 mm rotor in the rear
The geometry of the Ibis Ripmo XT
The Ibis Ripmo XT is available in five sizes, S to XL, with an additional XM size that sits between M and L. Like many other brands, Ibis introduced an in-between size because most bikes are sold in this range, allowing riders to find the perfect fit. Sizes S and M roll out of the factory on a mullet wheel setup, while XM, L, and XL are come with two 29” wheels. The wheel configuration cannot be selected at purchase but can be adjusted later using a flip chip on the seat stay.
The entire geometry of the Ibis Ripmo scales with the frame size. Along with the chainstay length – 436 mm in size XM – the seat angle, bottom bracket height, and even shock tuning are adjusted depending on the frame size. Unusually, Ibis defines their frame sizes based on top tube length rather than reach. The reach value is a result of the top tube length and seat angle adjustments in each size.
The Ibis Ripmo XT combines clean lines and a modern look with an elegant matte finish – minimalist and fast at the same time.
The goal of this geometry philosophy is to maintain consistent balance across all sizes without making extreme changes to the chainstay length. However, this approach results in very long reach values, with the biggest XL frame rocking a whopping 540 mm. The intermediate XM size has a more moderate 478 mm reach, which is paired with a pleasantly short 415 mm seat tube.
| Size | SM | MD | XM | LG | XL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seat Tube | 395 mm | 400 mm | 415 mm | 457 mm | 477 mm |
| Top Tube | 578 mm | 605 mm | 630 mm | 655 mm | 685 mm |
| Head Tube | 85 mm | 95 mm | 110 mm | 125 mm | 140 mm |
| Head Angle | 64.5° | 64.5° | 64.5° | 64.5° | 64.5° |
| Seat Angle | 77° | 76.5° | 76.5° | 77° | 77.5° |
| Chainstay | 435 mm | 435 mm | 436 mm | 438 mm | 440 mm |
| BB Drop | 36 mm | 33 mm | 30 mm | 27 mm | 24 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1195 mm | 1219 mm | 1249 mm | 1286 mm | 1329 mm |
| Reach | 436 mm | 456 mm | 478 mm | 506 mm | 540 mm |
| Stack | 616 mm | 622 mm | 633 mm | 643 mm | 654 mm |
The Ibis Ripmo XT on the trail
Uphill, the Ibis Ripmo XT impresses with an upright, comfortable riding position that doesn’t put too much pressure on your hands, even on level ground. The rear suspension offers exceptional traction and comfort, making the Ripmo an excellent companion for long days in the saddle. In terms of climbing performance, it ranks among the best in this test – excluding e-bikes – on par with the Pivot Switchblade and Specialized Stumpjumper.
Long and low: The Ibis Ripmo is one of the most balanced bikes in this test, providing a well-integrated ride feel. With a low front end and an equally low-slung rear, it places you right between the wheels, similar to the Rocky Mountain Instinct. Even in rough terrain, the Ibis remains composed and is always predictable, allowing you to negotiate high-speed rock gardens with confidence. Only the Transition Sentinel and Atherton S.150 are even more composed, but the Ripmo brings an added level of agility to the mix.
This perfect balance between stability and agility makes the Ibis Ripmo a total fun machine, even on flowing trails. It carves effortlessly from one turn to the next, and actively encourages you to play with the trail. The suspension is top-notch, smoothing out roots and rock gardens with ease. True to its DW-Link design, it provides plenty of grip and confidence while offering more support than the suspension of the Atherton S.150, which feels more planted on the trail.
The perfect blend of trail agility and enduro stability – the Ibis Ripmo XT is ready for any adventure.
Despite the excellent traction, the Ripmo remains lively and responsive. If you actively push the bike, you’ll be rewarded with plenty of pop, adding to its playful character. In terms of suspension performance, it stands alongside the best in test, including the Atherton S.150 and Specialized Stumpjumper.
The Ibis Ripmo XT is one of the best bikes in the entire test field. It inspires more confidence than the test-winning Specialized Stumpjumper but isn’t as uncompromising as the hard-charging Atherton S.150. However, no other bike in our test field matches the Ripmo’s ability to blend composure and agility so seamlessly.
Who should take a closer look at the Ibis Ripmo XT?
The Ibis Ripmo XT is a top-tier all-rounder, perfect for riders looking for one bike that excels across a wide range of terrains. It’s extremely agile, the ideal companion for playful home trails, and at the same time impresses with outstanding composure on rough enduro tracks and bike park lines. Both characteristics are exceptionally well-balanced and operate at an extremely high level. On top of that, the Ripmo stands out with its sleek design, seamlessly blending functionality and style.
Conclusions about the Ibis Ripmo XT
The Ibis Ripmo XT combines a fresh new look with the proven hard-charging characteristics the brand is known for. It’s not just fast and stylish in appearance – it also features well-thought-out frame details that are flawlessly executed. With an impressive balance of stability and agility, along with a top-tier suspension that shows no weaknesses, the Ripmo is unstoppable on the trail. Thanks to its strong climbing performance, it ranks among the best bikes in the test.
Tops
- Outstanding all-rounder
- Perfectly balanced handling
- Exceptionally capable suspension
- Highly efficient climber
Flops
- Wheel configuration cannot be selected at purchase
For more info head to ibiscycles.com.
The test field
For an overview of the test field head to our “Best trail bike of 2025” comparison test – 16 of the most exciting trail bikes in our 2025 group test
All bikes in test: Atherton S.150 | Canyon Spectral CF LTD | Canyon Spectral:ONfly CF LTD | Ibis Ripmo XT | MERIDA eONE-SIXTY SL | Norco Optic C1 | Orbea Rise LT M-LTD | Pivot Switchblade Team X0 Transmission | RAAW Jibb V2 | Rocky Mountain Instinct C70 | Santa Cruz Bronson CC X0 AXS RSV | Santa Cruz Hightower CC X0 AXS RSV | Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper 15 | Transition Sentinel X0 AXS | Trek Top Fuel 9.8 GX AXS | YT JEFFSY CORE 5 CF
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Words: Simon Kohler Photos: Peter Walker
