The Air 9 RDO is a thoroughbred – a no-nonsense instrument built for speed and performance. An extension of Niner's form-follows-function philosophy, no curve is out of place on the newest Niner. And while looks are important, true attraction begins as soon as you push on the pedals and the Air 9 RDO goes flat out.

REFINED DESIGN

The Air 9 RDO is specifically intended as a geared racing bike. With this in mind we referred to the purposeful lines of the Air 9 Carbon but reduced diameters and trimmed profiles throughout. Compared to the CYA bottom bracket shell of the Air 9 Carbon, the smaller PF30 shell of the Air 9 RDO suggested smaller junctions and negated the need for an alloy insert. The rear brake mount is tucked inside the curving stays to distribute twisting forces evenly, permitting smaller caliper mounts and decreased wall thicknesses. Even the headset races in the headtube are molded carbon - Niner shaved grams wherever they found them. The net result? A 1125g Niner frame that is going to knock your socks off.

TAPERED HEADTUBE

The benefits of a tapered headtube aren't just for riders of long travel bikes. XC racers and riders also see significant advantages, which is why Niner incorporate the technology in all of their new frames. By using the newest tapered steerer suspension forks, they create the stiffest front end possible – leading to increased steering precision as you carve a corner and descend toward the finish line. The integrated headset used in the Air 9 RDO is light and simple. Installation, cleaning and maintenance take seconds rather than minutes, a boon to anyone who queues up at the starting line without a team mechanic.

PF30 BOTTOM BRACKET

There are several BB standards to choose from – for Niner dedicated geared only race bike they like PF30. It's compatible with any BB30 crankset (as well as standard threaded BB systems, with an adapter) and the bearing cups are delightfully easy to install. The oversized 30mm spindle is light and resists the torque of even the mightiest Ninerds. Oversized bearings spin longer and smoother between overhauls. The plastic cups of the PF30 BB system don't require a machined aluminum bottom bracket shell insert, allowing a minimalist carbon construction.

INTERNAL SHIFTER ROUTING

New aluminum headbadge designed for full-length housing simplifies cable changes and protects cables from the elements.

REAL WORLD WEIGHT SAVINGS

Is it lighter than the Air 9 Carbon? Yes, quite a bit. The Air 9 RDO averages 1125g in a Medium frame (without seat collar or protective downtube tape). That's over a half-pound less than its brother. If getting there as quickly as possible is your game, you will want to throw a leg over the Air 9 RDO.