We’ve published plenty of press releases to showcase new Cotic bikes, and it’s finally time to test one of their steel single-pivot whips first hand. The Jeht 29er was released in November, and we’ll be getting it filthy for the next few months.
This latest Cotic model uses their venerated Droplink single-pivot rear suspension design, with a longer link that they say “keeps the progression curve more consistent through its travel, and also increases the seat post insertion by 15 – 20mm compared to the other 29er Droplink bikes.” Rear axle travel on the Jeht is 140mm, with a 140 or 150mm fork. Fortunately, the test bike came with that extra centimeter of fun.
The size medium frame we received has a roomy 467mm reach measurement to accompany the long and stabilizing 447mm chain stays that are consistent throughout the size run. Given the somewhat slacker 75.8° seat tube angle, we’ll definitely be sliding the saddle forward to make the climbs cozy, while the 64.5° head tube looks ripe for tipping the Jeht in the party direction. A 425mm seat tube length means that the stock 180mm OneUp dropper post will work for most riders who fit on the medium, and the 27mm bottom bracket drop should settle the bike into a proper planted feel when necessary.
The six different component builds around this Reynolds 853 steel frame appear well-suited to its intentions, for the most part. Our Gold Eagle GX build includes a Cane Creek Helm V2 fork and adjustable DBair IL shock. Suspension is a good place to spend a little extra cash and these squishers are top-notch. A set of Hunt Trail Wide alloy hoops wrapped in WTB tires get this ride rolling, and with their Light Slash Guard casing, we look forward to seeing to see how the tires hold up. The whole shebang is propelled forward with a SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain and scrubs speed with a set of Shimano XT M8100 brakes. Yes, those are two-piston brakes on a long-ish-travel trail bike. Fortunately, we have loads of pads laying around for these that were otherwise collecting dust. This particular build weighs just over 15 kilos (33 Lbs).
This real-steel machine retails for £4,649, with the top-end model fetching £6,599 with a set of titanium cranks and Hope 4-piston brakes, and the frame set sells for £1,799 with a Rock Shox Deluxe Select Plus shock.
That’s enough teasing for now, and we’ll have a full review of the Cotic Jeht published in 2021.
