Saracen Ariel 60 Pro Long-Term Review – Initial Thoughts from the Trail

Words by Kyle Dewick | Photos: Our Media

Is this the ultimate all-mountain missile? Video editor Kyle Dewick starts a long-term relationship with the Saracen Ariel 60 Pro, aiming to rack up air miles and maybe even shed a few pounds in the process.

First Impressions

Jumping on the Saracen Ariel 60 Pro feels like catching up with an old friend. From the first pedal stroke, I was transported back to a few years ago when I first rode a mate’s Ariel. It was fast, flickable, and just plain fun.

Now I’ve got the latest model as my long-term test bike, and honestly? It’s ticking all the same boxes — and then some.

“Straight out the gate, it rides like it wants to be airborne. And I’m more than happy to oblige.”

Frame & Geometry – Built to Bash

Let’s talk numbers. The Ariel 60 Pro is built around a custom-butted and hydroformed 6013 alloy frame, designed to take a hammering without flinching. With 160mm of rear travel and a Fox Float X2 shock paired to a Fox 38 Performance Elite fork up front, this thing isn’t shy about big terrain.

The mixed wheel setup — 29" front, 27.5" rear — keeps things stable in the gnar and nimble in the corners. A flip chip at the rear lets you tweak the geometry, but I’ve kept it ‘pop-friendly’ for now.

Key geo highlights:

• Head angle: 64.6°

• Seat angle: 76.5°

• Reach (Medium): 480mm

• Chainstays: 440mm

This is modern enduro geometry done right.

Spec Breakdown – Punching Above Its Price

With a retail of £3,499.99, the Ariel 60 Pro offers a bang-for-your-buck build:

• Fork: Fox 38 Performance Elite GRIP2 (160mm travel)

• Shock: Fox Float X2 Performance

• Drivetrain: Shimano SLX/XT 1x12

• Brakes: Shimano SLX 4-piston with 203mm rotors

• Wheels: DT Swiss rims with Maxxis Minion DHR II tyres

• Cockpit: Race Face Atlas bar, Chester stem, ODI grips

• Dropper: KS Rage i, 170mm drop on Medium

“It’s the kind of build that lets you get on with riding, not tinkering.”

Ride Feel – Confidence on Tap

So far, I’ve left the bike completely stock and only dialled in the suspension to suit my style — 90psi up front, 195psi in the rear (no volume spacers). I’ve added 40mm of spacers under the stem to keep my front end lifted and playful.

On the trail, it’s been an absolute hoot. It jumps like a dirt jumper, corners like it’s on rails, and remains composed at warp speed. Whether I’m pumping through rollers or clearing big jumps, it holds momentum without feeling like a couch.

“You know when to push. You know when to chill. The Ariel tells you.”

Climbing Performance – Surprisingly Efficient

While this isn’t a short-travel trail bike, the Ariel doesn’t shy away from climbs. The steep seat angle and efficient single-pivot design keep things feeling direct when seated. And that 1x12 Shimano setup? Smooth and reliable under pressure.

Why I Chose the Ariel 60 Pro

I loved how the previous-gen Ariel 60 rode — fast, loose, and full of energy. The new version carries the same DNA but adds refinement. The sizing is dialled, the spec is solid, and Saracen’s UK-rooted ethos shines through in the build.

“This thing wants to go fast, fly high, and keep asking for more.”

Long-Term Outlook

This is just the beginning. Over the next few months, I’ll be pushing the Ariel 60 Pro to its limits on a variety of terrain — from Welsh rock gardens to big jump lines and everything in between.

So far, it’s already one of the most fun and confidence-inspiring bikes I’ve ridden. And if it helps me shed a few kilos along the way? Even better.

Read the full review - Here