First Look: 2016 Intense Primer 29

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Hot on the heels of a new ACV plus bike, Intense are also launching a new aggressive 29er called the Primer.

The Primer can be built up as an XC race weapon or an aggressive trail bike depending on the parts spec chosen. It is the replacement for the Spider 29.

Brian Lopes has ridden everything from long days at the BC Bike Race to ledgy smash fests in Sedona, Arizona aboard the Primer.

The new bike incorporates what Intense are labeling the iBox, which sees the lower link brought up into the frame above the bottom bracket, allowing for a shorter rear end.

The phrase "JS Tuned" encompasses the whole bike.

The Primer takes on the benefits of Boost axle spacing front and rear.

Attention to details. Intense fits the Primer with their own quality variable ribbed grip.

New frames equal new tooling, and with that Intense took the opportunity to update the form of the tubeset. The downtube transforms from a triangle shape to a flared out box by the bottom bracket, giving it unique looks and increased strength.

Intense are now offering two carbon layups for their bikes. Shown here is the SL, which is their higher priced, lighter weight finish.

Both the SL and regular frames feature internal cable routing, even through the rear stays, and are available in a range of prices.

Not all of the frame is new, and the classic looking hump at the headtube/top tube junction remains in a refined state. Internal routing enters the frame cleanly with rubber grommets.

Rubber udders guide internally routed cables out from the downtube and under the bottom bracket to the rear of the bike. They keep out water and contamination while helping keep the bike quiet.

Three Point Precision.

The upper suspension pivot, bottom bracket, and headtube are formed with a solid carbon fiber tube to aid with accuracy and rigidity in the new bikes.

The bike features adjustable travel between 115 and 130mm by simply moving the rear shock bolt.

The rear of the bike is short, leaving only a little room for the lower link.

Claire Buchar proved it's rally worthy even in short travel mode, but bumping it up to 130mm provides a more bottomless, plush feel.

Generous amounts of rubber protection adorn the driveside of the bike without going overboard.

Classic Intense attention to aesthetics. The frame has great lines, including how the seat stay and top tube flow smoothly from one to the next.

All four models have some frame protection on the downtube, but it is kept minimal and low toward the bottom bracket.

This one is loads of fun.

It's also available now from your local retailer.

The Primer can handle a wide variety of riders and trails, and starts at $4,599.

Visit www.intensecycles.com for more details.

Hot on the heels of the new Intense ACV plus bike comes the 115/130mm travel Primer 29. This rig is meant as a do-it-all shred sled, replacing the popular Spider and suiting a wide variety of trail riders. We had the opportunity to catch up with Jeff Steber for a quick chat about everything that makes it awesome.

Primer 29 Highlights

Adjustable Travel: 115 or 130mm (4.5 or 5-inches) rear // 140mm front
JS Tuned Suspension
Monocoque UD Carbon Front and Rear Triangle
29-inch Wheel Size
Integrated Boost 148x12mm Dropouts
Internal Cable and Dropper Post Routing
Water Bottle Mount
Downtube and Chainstay Flack Guard Protection
Angular Contact/Collet Bearing System with Replaceable Grease Zerks

Geometry

Build Kits, Pricing and Availability

The Primer 29 is available in four complete builds and a variety of glossy paint jobs. Clockwise from top left: Foundation ($4,599 US), Expert ($5,899 US), Pro ($6,699 US), and Factory ($9,499 US). Factory and Pro models feature the SL monocoque UD carbon front and rear triangle with carbon top link and titanium hardware.

Visit an Intense dealer to take one for a spin, or head over to www.intensecycles.com for more details. They're available now.

Photos by AJ Barlas and Colin Meagher

Intense