Devinci TroyvsIbis Ripmo

The Devinci Troy and Ibis Ripmo both occupy the hotly contested 150/160mm travel segment, aiming to be that do-it-all trail machine, but they approach this ideal with distinct philosophies. Devinci's Troy, available in both carbon and Canadian-made aluminum, is often lauded as a 'quiver killer' that delivers a balanced, intuitive ride. It’s a bike that feels immediately familiar, emphasizing a composed demeanor and broad capability rather than extreme characteristics in any single discipline. The Troy’s Split Pivot suspension is noted for its blend of small-bump compliance and big-hit absorption, often feeling more capable than its travel numbers suggest once properly tuned. Ibis’s Ripmo V3, by contrast, is exclusively carbon and, despite its travel, leans into a more energetic and playful ride. Its DW-Link suspension is celebrated for being exceptionally poppy and efficient under power, making it a favorite for riders who enjoy actively boosting off features and carving corners. While Ibis has updated its geometry to be more aggressive, some reviewers noted the Ripmo retains a lighter-duty feel compared to its V2 predecessor, or that its lively suspension can feel 'nervous' at the absolute limit. Both bikes offer integrated frame storage and modern features like UDH, but the Troy often garners praise for its perceived value, particularly in its carbon iteration, while the Ripmo's aesthetics and detail work are frequently highlighted.

Riders looking for an immediately comfortable bike will find the Devinci Troy an inviting companion. Reviewers consistently describe its ride quality as 'refined' and 'balanced,' making it easy to feel 'immediately at home' on varied trails. The Split Pivot suspension delivers an 'initially soft and sensitive' feel, smoothly handling small chatter, before transitioning into a 'delightfully supportive mid-stroke.' This means the Troy soaks up roots and rocks without feeling wallowy, providing a 'nice amount of soak factor' that some attribute to the RockShox Vivid Ultimate shock. At speed, it stays 'calm and composed,' tracking exceptionally well, even if it’s 'not the all-out plow machine' some might expect from a 150mm bike. Climbing on the Troy is efficient for its travel, offering a 'taut feeling' and 'good dose of anti-squat.' While there can be 'a bit of bob' under hard pedaling, many found it manageable, with excellent traction on technical ascents. The carbon frame, being two pounds lighter than the alloy, makes a noticeable difference, feeling 'zippy' on the uphill. The Troy's frame also offers a 'small degree of compliance,' which helps it feel controlled yet forgiving through rough sections, keeping hands fresh. Conversely, the Ripmo V3 is celebrated for its 'energetic' and 'poppy' ride quality. Its DW-Link suspension is praised for being 'super efficient' and adding 'pep in its step' on climbs, with 'exceptional traction.' It encourages active riding, feeling 'nimble' and eager to 'gap sections of trails or whip the rear end around.' However, the Ripmo's lively nature draws mixed opinions on descents. While some find it 'confidence inspiring' and capable of handling 'gnarlier lines,' others, particularly Pinkbike reviewers, described it as feeling 'busy' or 'nervous' in high-speed, rough terrain. One long-term reviewer even felt it was 'torsionally softer' than its predecessor, making it less 'planted' than expected for its travel. This contrasts with the Troy's more universally praised composure. The Ripmo's Fox 36 fork with the Grip X damper also received specific criticism for lacking the composure of other high-end forks, often requiring aggressive tuning to feel adequate. In corners, the Ripmo is lauded for being 'exceptionally good' at quick changes of direction, encouraging riders to 'lean deeply' and 'carve effortlessly.' The Troy, while agile, is more about 'arcing through turns rather than squaring them off,' reflecting its more settled nature. Essentially, the Ripmo is for those who love to actively engage with the trail, while the Troy provides a more steadfast and confidence-inspiring platform.