How Fast Can Adam Build His New Ariel 30?

What is Adam Brayton's Custom Saracen Ariel 30 Build?

Professional downhill racer Adam Brayton built a custom Saracen Ariel 30 X trail bike in a timed challenge. The build features premium components including Shimano XT Di2 electronic shifting, FOX suspension, Hope wheels, and Gtechniq ceramic coating for winter trail riding.

The Challenge: How Fast Can You Build a Mountain Bike?

Adam Brayton and mechanic Oli raced against the clock to build a complete Saracen Ariel 30 X Frame from scratch. The challenge: assemble a trail-ready bike as quickly as possible with no second takes or breaks.

Build Challenge Rules:

• Timed build - race against the clock
• No practice runs or second takes
• Complete bike assembly from frame up
• Must be trail-ready when finished
• Mechanic: Oli (Adam Brayton's trusted mechanic)

Complete Component Specification: Adam's Ariel 30 Build

Frame & Suspension

• Frame: Saracen Ariel 30 X Frameset - 130mm rear travel, 29" wheels
• Fork: FOX - 140mm travel (typical Ariel 30 spec)
• Rear Shock: FOX - 130mm travel
• Dropper Post: FOX Transfer - internal routing

Drivetrain

• Groupset: Shimano XT Di2 - Electronic shifting, 12-speed
• Shifting: Wireless electronic with race-ready precision
• Chainring: Shimano XT (32T or 34T typical)
• Cassette: Shimano XT 12-speed (10-51T)

Wheels & Tyres

• Wheels: Hope - British-made, bombproof reliability
• Hubs: Hope (front and rear)
• Tyres: Maxxis Minion DHR II - Aggressive trail tread for all conditions
• Wheel Size: 29" front and rear

Cockpit & Contact Points

• Grips: ODI - Maximum control
• Handlebars: Hope (likely 780mm width)
• Stem: Hope - Short trail stem
• Brakes: Shimano XT or Hope (British finishing kit)

Protection & Finishing

• Frame Protection: Gtechniq Ceramic Coating - Full frame protection against water, mud, and winter trail abuse
• Purpose: Keeps bike looking sharp and running smoothly in harsh conditions

Why Shimano XT Di2 Electronic Shifting?

Adam Brayton chose Shimano XT Di2 for this build because:

• Lightning-fast shifts: Electronic precision faster than mechanical
• Consistent performance: Works perfectly in wet, muddy winter conditions
• Race-proven: Same technology used in World Cup racing
• Low maintenance: No cable stretch or adjustment needed
• Wireless option: Clean cockpit with no shift cables

What is Gtechniq Ceramic Coating?

Gtechniq ceramic coating is a protective layer applied to the bike frame that:

• Repels water and mud
• Prevents scratches and scuffs
• Makes cleaning easier
• Protects paint from winter trail damage
• Keeps the bike looking new longer

This coating is especially valuable for winter riding when trails are wet, muddy, and abrasive.

Saracen Ariel 30: Key Specifications

• Travel: 130mm rear / 140mm front
• Wheel Size: 29" (full 29er)
• Frame Material: Aluminium alloy
• Discipline: Trail / All-mountain
• Geometry: Modern trail geometry with slack head angle
• Use Case: Long trail rides, all-day epics, winter riding

Who is Adam Brayton?

Adam Brayton is a professional downhill mountain bike racer and Saracen ambassador. He competes in events including:

• Red Bull Hardline
• UCI World Cup Downhill (retired from full-time racing)
• UK downhill and enduro events

Adam is known for his technical riding skills and has been a long-time Saracen team rider.

Can I Build a Similar Ariel 30?

Yes. The Saracen Ariel 30 is available as:

• Ariel 30 X Frameset - Frame only, build your own custom bike
• Ariel 30 Complete Bikes - Factory-built with various component specs

Where to Buy Components:

• Shimano XT Di2: Available at bike shops and online retailers
• FOX Suspension: Through authorized FOX dealers
• Hope Components: Available at Hope dealers and online
• Maxxis Tyres: Available at all bike shops
• ODI Grips: Available through Saracen
• Gtechniq Coating: Available through Saracen

How Long Does It Take to Build a Mountain Bike?

Professional mechanics can build a complete mountain bike in:

• Experienced mechanic: 1-2 hours for complete build
• Timed challenge (like Adam's): Under 1 hour possible
• Home mechanic (first time): 3-5 hours typical
• With electronic shifting: Add 30-60 minutes for Di2 setup

Built Fast. Built Right. Built to Ride.

This build proved how quickly a premium trail bike can come together when every component is chosen correctly. The Saracen Ariel 30 platform delivers confidence, capability, and all-day trail performance - whether you're racing the clock or racing the trails.

The build question has been answered. The next question is… how fast can Adam ride it?