XC hardtail for 2026

[aer0]

I had a crash a few weeks back and killed my SpCycle M016 frame, need to replace that and at the moment I am looking at the newer model M09


Keen to see any suggestion on alternates if anyone has them, 2.4" tyre and UDH is a must, not 27.2 seatpost, BSA/T74 ideally and I dont mind if its internal cable or not.

Will be running 120mm fork, would like modern XC geometry, 67ish degree HT etc...

Is anyone aware of any similar frames that have internal frame storage in the downtube?
Any other thoughts before I hit go?

[CycOps]

Have a lock at the geo of the Meinier Snake.
But no internal storage.

[gribs]

The Snake Max has internal storage.

[aer0]

Thanks, this is possibly exactly what I am looking for!

Im going to scour the internet today and see if I can find any reviews for this frame & maker before I order.

[Marcello Casati]

I'm looking for a similiar frame, but with additional wishes:
Modern race geometry
Possibility to install a dropper post, diameter > 27.2 mm
Not fully integrated cables (not through the headset because of water and dirt)
Mechanical shifting (1x12)
Price < € 500.-

I would appreciate some suggestions

[CycOps]

@Marcello, check SPCycle M-05

30.9 seat post
cable entry into side of headtube
86.5 HTA
74 STA
right now EUR 380 plus shipping

[Marcello Casati]

Thanks a lot. That's what I was looking for!

[aer0]

the M05 is BSA as well so a lot easer to find good bottom brackets for

[CycOps]

PLS be aware of the different fork length of the

Meinier Snake 530mm - that's 120 mm fork travel
and

SPCycle M05 506 mm - that's 100 mm fork travel.

[Tijoe]

@Marcello, check SPCycle M-05

30.9 seat post
cable entry into side of headtube
86.5 HTA
74 STA
right now EUR 380 plus shipping

I have been riding my M05 since late 2022.  Fantastic lightweight frame.  I've even shifted to using it as my bikepacking frame, so it really take a beating.   As stated it uses a 100mm travel fork.

[Marcello Casati]

Thanks a lot for the recommondations.
I have ordered yesterday an M05 and paid CHF 350.- (approx. € 320.-) including headset.
I observed the Elite wheels have no special discount now. It's hard to get some transparency over all types of wheels. Maybe I go with Serenade this time.
From Ali I will buy Balugoe saddle, Kalloy Uno, Dodici stem.
For the rest, I buy used parts in the next weeks (Shimano XT, dropper post Crankbrothers Highline). Most difficult is finding a good fork for a nice price

[CycOps]

@Marcello, did you oder directly from Spcycle, or via AliExpress from Spcyle or a third vendor?

[Marcello Casati]

I ordered on Aliexpress at "official SPcycle store". This was cheaper than at the online store of SPcycle
The delivery to Switzerland was CHF 94 
The frame was CHF 254 (€ 230.-). I found some coupon codes 
The headset and the expander are included

[aer0]

FYI all, I have ended up ordering the Meinier Snake Max frame. Ive gone with Large, Glossy in a grey colour but requested it with no decals at all so semi custom paint.
It was ordered on 14th April, painting was compelted and a photo sent to me on 22nd April. I am now waiting for it to arrived in New Zealand.

Will update with photos and review once it lands, gets built etc

[aer0]

Frame has now arrived, first impressions are the pain is really nice compared to other AE frames ive bought.
The storage door is alloy, feels sturdy and sits in the gap nicely with no movememnt or noise.

Photos to come over the weekend with weights as i build it.

High level timeline:
Orderd 14/4 and confirmed paint colour/decal option
Paining completed 22/4 and shipped
Recieved to my door in New Zealand on 6/5