Crankworx Whistler – Bold Prototypes, New MTBs, and a Tandem Surprise

Unique Bikes and Exciting Developments at Crankworx

Every year, Crankworx brings together some of the most innovative and eye-catching mountain bikes from around the world. This year was no different, with several standout models capturing the attention of attendees. Among them was the Archibald Cycles AC1, a custom-built bike that drew a lot of interest. Owned by Squamish-based rider Ollie Lowthorpe, this unique machine features a Pinion gearbox, belt drive, and an inverted fork, making it a real conversation starter.

The Archibald Cycles AC1

Ollie Lowthorpe’s Archibald AC1 is a prime example of how customization can lead to something truly one-of-a-kind. Based in Delta, British Columbia, Archibald Cycles crafts each frame from MS3 stainless steel, with custom geometry tailored to individual riders. Lowthorpe’s model has a 450mm reach and a slack 62° head tube angle, making it ideal for enduro riding. The bike is set up with 160/160mm of travel, but the i-Track high-pivot four-bar suspension system can accommodate up to 198mm of rear travel. It also allows for any fork, including dual-crown downhill forks.

Lowthorpe opted for a 9-speed Pinion Smart.Shift gearbox, though 6 or 12-speed options are available. The system is driven by a Gates Carbon belt, which he noted is highly reliable and requires minimal maintenance. His build includes an Intend Flash inverted fork up front and a Vorsprung Telum rear coil shock, although the latter was used temporarily for display purposes.

The bike is equipped with MX wheels featuring NOBL carbon rims and a Switchgrade seat angle adjuster that offers two saddle positions for climbing and descending. At 42lbs, it's definitely not for those concerned about weight. Additionally, the AC1 includes a small plastic storage container inside the frame for carrying tools and other essentials.

Lowthorpe is also known for his signature rubber ducky horn, which became part of a fun duck hunt contest at the Leatt booth. Participants could find hidden rubber ducks at Leatt retailers and among athletes to claim prizes, delighting many children.

Norco’s New Bikes and Custom Builds

Norco had a variety of exciting models on display, including their newly announced Revolver XC bikes. The 120 C models are race-focused, offering 115mm of rear travel and 120mm forks. They feature Norco’s first-ever flex pivot design and come with titanium hardware to reduce weight. The more trail-oriented Revolver 130 (C1 model) provides 120mm of rear travel and a 130mm fork, with a slightly slacker head tube angle than the 120 C.

Big air rider Matt McDuff’s custom Norco Shore was also on display. His bike features a longer rear end, built specifically to handle high-speed jumps and provide stability. This modification is the only change made to the stock frame.

Gracey Hemstreet’s downhill race bike was another highlight, suggesting that Norco may be planning a return to the downhill scene. Her bike features an aluminum front and a carbon fiber rear end, with a high-pivot suspension linkage. While details remain scarce, it’s clear that Norco is working on something new for the downhill racing community.

9 Drop Prototype Enduro Bike

At the Cascade Components booth, a prototype enduro bike from the startup company 9 Drop caught attention. Based in California, 9 Drop chose its name due to local trails that drop onto Highway 9. The prototype features 160mm of rear travel and a 170mm fork, with a 'dual link virtual pivot' linkage design. Adjustable dropouts allow for either MX or 29" wheelsets. Although cable routing appears rough, it's an early prototype, and final details are still being refined.

Cascade Components provided technical support by building the links and designing the linkage and dropouts for this prototype.

Yoann Barelli’s Tandem MTB

Another unusual sight at Crankworx was Yoann Barelli and Nate Spitz’s tandem mountain bike. Known for their entertaining videos, the pair showcased their unique ride during the event. On the first day, they were seen riding through Whistler village. Spitz mentioned they were heading to Microclimate, a relatively gentle trail that would be an adventure on a tandem. When asked if they could fit the bike on a chairlift, Spitz joked about trying to cram it into a gondola.