NUKEPROOF DISSENT CARBON 297 RS

£5,999.99 Impressive spec, components and capability for the price

Designed to tame the wildest tracks, the Dissent Carbon 297 features plenty of adjustability to optimise rider fit and tweak rear suspension progression. Own-brand parts help keep the cost down, but the quality high.

THE FRAME

The carbon frame is made of a blend of unidirectional T700 and T800 fibres. Nukeproof claim this allows them to build a complex shape while increasing strength, stiffness and compliance (engineered flex). They say it's lighter than the previous Dissent, too.

While the 297 comes with mixedsize wheels, a flip-chip where the swingarm meets the rocker link allows you to fit a 29in rear wheel, should you prefer. The headset cups can be swapped out to alter the reach (-6mm, Omm or +6mm), chainstay length can be altered to fine-tune rear-end stability (-5mm, Omm, +5mm) and Nukeproof give riders the choice between three suspension progression settings. Setting one is 21 per cent progressive, setting two 25 per cent and setting three 28 per cent. All feature a regressive ending, so the last 20 to 30mm of travel is softer, to prevent a harsh ramp-up at bottomout. Plenty of frame protection is provided, and Nukeproof fit clear film in key areas to reduce scuffs.