Hadn’t thought to include that, but yes the whole frame is original. In **[2014 the 750 MSL](https://resources.bikes.com/en/bikes/altitude/2014)** used an alloy rear triangle and in my experience they’re way more resilient that the plastic-fantastic ones. Suffice it to say that along with external rear brake routing I think it’s a brilliantly practical layout.
Aluminum was, and probably still is a more durable and crash resistant material in multi pivot rear ends, it’s plenty stiff, cheaper to replace, and it makes a better wear resistant surface for the bushing interfaces. Based on some Horst Link Specialized frames I’ve played with the aluminum isn’t really heavier either.
I actually should have mentioned there were full aluminum versions of these rigs too. I still see lots of those on the trail.
———
I don’t think I was unfair in creating a very specific set of circumstances where I’d write about these bikes. I think it’s important to front load conversations with buyer beware warnings just given how many dusted rigs I’ve seen.
For folks that can find a good one - for the right price - has the potential to be great. But stay on top of the pivots!
June 14, 2022, 6:03 a.m. - Andrew Major
Hadn’t thought to include that, but yes the whole frame is original. In **[2014 the 750 MSL](https://resources.bikes.com/en/bikes/altitude/2014)** used an alloy rear triangle and in my experience they’re way more resilient that the plastic-fantastic ones. Suffice it to say that along with external rear brake routing I think it’s a brilliantly practical layout. Aluminum was, and probably still is a more durable and crash resistant material in multi pivot rear ends, it’s plenty stiff, cheaper to replace, and it makes a better wear resistant surface for the bushing interfaces. Based on some Horst Link Specialized frames I’ve played with the aluminum isn’t really heavier either. I actually should have mentioned there were full aluminum versions of these rigs too. I still see lots of those on the trail. ——— I don’t think I was unfair in creating a very specific set of circumstances where I’d write about these bikes. I think it’s important to front load conversations with buyer beware warnings just given how many dusted rigs I’ve seen. For folks that can find a good one - for the right price - has the potential to be great. But stay on top of the pivots!