Sea Otter 2015: Updated Fezzari Solitude Hardtail

We already covered the Cascade Peak from Fezzari in our 27.5+ round-up here, but as a recovering (and sometimes relapsing) XC racer, there was another bike in their booth that caught my eye. The updated Solitude hardtail features a redesigned frame that looks like it’s hauling ass, even when it’s just sitting in the booth. …
The Solitude race bike from Fezzari
The Solitude race bike from Fezzari

We already covered the Cascade Peak from Fezzari in our 27.5+ round-up here, but as a recovering (and sometimes relapsing) XC racer, there was another bike in their booth that caught my eye.

The updated Solitude hardtail features a redesigned frame that looks like it’s hauling ass, even when it’s just sitting in the booth. The reshaped seat stays are said to provide a more comfortable ride as they allow for some degree of vertical movement.

To accommodate a variety of rider sizes, Fezzari will offer the revamped Solitude in both 27.5″ and 29″ wheels sizes. The 27.5 size will be available in 16″ and 18″ frames, while the 29 size will come in 16″, 18″, and 20″ frames. The thinking is that some shorter riders will prefer the smaller wheel, while people well over 6′ should be on a 29er.

The flattened seat stays on the new Solitude
The flattened seat stays on the new Solitude
Dialed build on the Solitude
Dialed build on the Solitude

Fezzari will offer the updated Solitude around June in a variety of build kits ranging from $2,200 and topping out with the Shimano XTR Di2-equipped bike going for $6,500. Tyler from Fezzari said the base build has been very popular with high school racers in the NICA leagues.