2023 Whyte 529 Trail Hardtail Bike

Features & Equipment
The middle option of Whytes three 29er trail hardtails comes with a suitably Goldilocks ‘just right’ kit list that seamlessly blends value and performance: front suspension is provided by RockShox’s capable Recon RL 120mm travel forks; slick shifting with a gear for every gradient comes from SRAM’s SX Eagle groupset; Maxxis Ardent 29x2.4in EXO Dual Compound tyres fly over the trails with sure-footed grip. Such a tough but light ride needs wheels to match too, so Whyte built their own custom sets from proven WTB rims, benchmark DT Swiss spokes and double sealed hubs. Powerful, feedback-rich braking comes from Tektro four-piston hydraulic disc brakes to give you dependable performance; remote-controlled KS 900i dropper seat posts (125mm drop on size S; 150mm drop on M-XL) give you the clearance to push your riding further, and in more control, on descents and technical terrain, too.

To ensure that living with it for the long-haul is as good an experience as riding it, Whyte have loaded the 529 with all the bad-weather-beating and practical features possible to keep it running brilliantly ride after rider, and year after year. That includes weather sealing the internally routed control cable ports and seat post collar to keep the water and muck where it belongs – outside; maximizing mud clearances – as well as allowing space for up to 2.6in tyres in the rear – thanks to Whytes big-tyre friendly Single Chain Ring frame design; as well as a custom chainstay guard to both protect the frame from chain slap damage and silent your ride.

Bigger diameter 29in (aka ‘29er’) wheels boost performance in several ways. Their larger size effectively shrinks every bump, so they can roll over rough terrain faster and smoother so you can go further, with less fatigue and more control. They also have more gyroscopic stability so you can hold your line better when things get loose, adding more control and confidence. While that can make some 29ers dull, Whytes unique Total Geometry approach means their 29er bikes are still agile and fun as well.