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First Look – RSD Middle Child – By Dustin Carlson

 

What comes to mind when someone is described as a middle child? For me, I think this person is going to be wild, impulsive, and up for anything, as long as it doesn’t involve going to work! So, with the “Middle Child” moniker on the new RSD model, I’m really hoping that it lives up to the name!

The Middle Child is RSD’s latest creation and is built for good times. RSD is out of Toronto, Canada and has been designing frames since 2012.

Middle Child Features

  • Double-butted, heat-treated 4130 Chromoly steel tubing
  • Full CNC-machined custom yoke that’ll take 2.8″ tires (or up to 2.6″ x 29)
    64.5 degree head tube and 74 degree seat tube angles paired with 140mm fork –that aggressive geometry for both climbing and sending choice lines
  • Boost spacing and short chainstays (adjustable from 415mm – 430mm) for super stability and loads of confidence in the rough stuff
  • The build that I am lucky enough to review is loaded with tried and true components for $2799

The Spec’s

Frame: 27.5+ Cr-Mo 4130 Double Butted and Heat Treated
Fork: Pike RC 110 Boost with 140mm Travel
Headset: Cane Creek ZS-44
Handle Bar: Race Face 35mm Turbine R 780mm
Stem: Race Face 35mm Turbine 50mm
Front Wheel: Sun Ringle Duroc 27.5x50mm Front 15x110mm Boost
Rear Wheel: Sun Ringle Duroc 27.5x50mm Rear 12x148mm Boost
Crank: Race Face 175mm Turbine Cinch DM
BB: Race Face 73mm BSA
Rear Shifter: Shimano XT 11spd
Rear Derailleur: Shimano XT 11spd
Brakes: Shimano XT 4 Pistons

I’ve just started my test rides on local trails here in Utah. It’s been fun to say the least! And I’ve got a feeling that as I get more saddle time on this bike I’m going to really enjoy pushing the limits. I really like the idea of a “hardtail enduro bike” so I‘m glad that I’ll get to really test this bike out on some of Utah’s best trails. I’m even going to race it in some local enduros so stay tuned for a full shakedown and review!

For more information about the RSD Middle Child visit – rsdbikes.com

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