If double-downcountry was a thing, this would be the bike.

Well it is a thing, so embrace it, you're going to love it. The Ariel 30 rallies up, down and everywhere in between.

From the local loam, to trail centres and natural stuff that a bike with this little travel should have no right being interested in, this is the one that can do it all.

At the heart of it is our all-new, custom-butted and hydroformed 6013 aluminium frame.

Designed and developed with the help of Matt Walker from our Madison Saracen Factory Racing Team, you know it's been put through the wringer and is built to last and go fast.

Every Ariel 30 features size specific wheels, with small and medium bikes in the 29/27.5 mullet setup, and the large and extra-large sizes 29er models.

But what if you change your mind faster than the bike industry about which wheel size is best?

We thought of that already. Whichever Ariel 30 you choose, we've included additional push links, that you can swap out and see if the grass really is greener. All you'll need is the right size rear wheel.

Our benchmark model features everything expected of a modern trail bike and will leave you wondering if you need anything more capable to have a great time.

The 130mm of travel is provided by a Fox DPS Performance air shock featuring three position settings, with Marzocchi's Bomber Z2 fork up front owning every black run you dare take.

Shimano's fresh Deore groupset has already earned acclaim for its brilliant shifting, with the SLX rear mech covering every ratio of the super-wide 10-51 cassette. Stopping is handled by the ever reliable two piston Deore callipers.

DT Swiss M442 rims are built to last and feature a 22.5mm internal, approved for up to 2.5-inch tyres. We've chosen unflappable Maxxis Minion DHRII rubber which, along with the rims are tubeless ready - just add tape, valves and sealant.

Finishing kit is taken care of by RaceFace, with an up to date 35mm diameter bar and stem, and the KS Rage dropper completes the package.

When it comes to the details, there is internal routing for everything - including a dropper post - room for a 550ml bottle, superboost spacing for additional clearance and big bearings which last longer and are commonly available should you need to refresh them.

Please note - the Saracen Ariel does not come supplied with pedals. Add some from our gear store!

Ariel 30 - Red

£1,699.99 £2,499.99 €2899.99

IF YOU DREAM IN SINGLETRACK, THE ARIEL 30 IS THE PERFECT WEAPON TO TURN THOSE TRAIL-SHREDDING FANTASIES INTO REALITY. SPRIGHTLY LIKE AN XC BIKE BUT READY TO GET NASTY, DON’T SLEEP ON THIS ONE.