HardtailCanada profile

I picked up a Growler 40 and specced it out this past season. I absolutely love it! Hardtails have their own magic. I'm riding everything I did on my last bike (a big travel full suspension enduro bike) but having more fun and getting a better workout.

Finally added a Fox 36 for next season and I can't wait.

You can check out my Rocky Mountain Growler Review.

If you want to see how I built up the 40, you can have a look at my Rocky Mountain Growler Custom Build.

Little late to the party, but maybe this info will help others in their bike shopping for '21!

I agree with the article, that the Growler is flying under the radar, but I'm sure as more people try modern geo, on value-packed builds, these aggressive hardtails will only get more popular.

For anyone in the market for Cushcore, both of NSMB's articles on the topic are great and in line with my experience so far.

If readers want a different take, or one focused on a heavier rider on a hardtail, check out my article--Cushcore Review: How it Lives Up to the Hype.

But, like many riders here, I'm keen to learn more about the product's long term durability.

This is a great, performance based review. For anyone considering this product but think the claims are too good to be true, this article is bang on.

If anyone is interested in a second take, especially if you're a heavier rider on a hardtail (like me) check out my article: Cushcore Review: How it Lives Up to the Hype.

For me, the performance improvements are absolutely worth the price of admission. But I also believe it is a niche product and if you just want rim protection there are definitely cheaper options out there.

A little late to the party, but if anyone is curious about another take on the Growler, I wrote a review here: 2020 Rocky Mountain Growler Review.

The aggressive geo is super fun, and this bike is great at speeds and steeper descents. I made the switch from an enduro FS and haven't looked back!

I ended up switching out a bunch of components and built my own spec up from the 40 platform. This is a fantastic bike and I certainly hope to see more companies coming out with aggressive hardtails in the future. Such a pure and rewarding trail riding experience, and a better workout!

Andrew, great review! It is really cool reading an in-depth, technical piece on an entry level bike that truly sticks to what the bike offers. I'm sure many budget minded readers got some good info out of this.

The geo is so fun on this bike, I love mine. And it's the perfect platform to slowly upgrade (or just completely spec out from day one!). 

It's gonna be cool to watch the progression of aggressive hardtail offerings from various manufacturers. I think Rocky really nailed this bike and all 3 price points are great value.

Nice work.

Hey everyone, just throwing my 2 cents in here. When I bought my current bike (Rocky Mountain Growler) quite a few mechs, and even the wheel rep (I bought Race Face Turbine R's), recommended Cushcore. They said it was almost mandatory on my rear wheel (I weigh 220lbs).

I had my doubts, as many of Cushcore's claims sounds pretty extreme for a piece of foam (and they're not cheap) but the difference they made was amazing.

I also ran a Nukeproof in my front tire, to test them out as a cheaper option and because some of my fast friends swear by them.

I found the Nukeproof ARD to be OK (I really couldn't push the front wheel because I had to babysit my stock Suntour fork) but I will likely put Cushcore in the front next season with my new Fox 36.

If you want my full take on Cushcore (from a hardtail point of view) you can read my review: Cushcore: How it Lives up to the Hype. Hope the info helps others make their own decisions!

I think Cushcore is a rad product, for the right person. As a heavier rider on a hardtail regularly hitting DH, they make a difference and are worth it.