Alchemy Arktos 135 - Dream Bike on a Budget

Full review write up to follow. The Alchemy Arktos is a trail bike 150mm front travel, 135mm rear, with some pretty sneaky features that set this bike apart from the rest. Stay tuned.

Price - The model tested was the Arktos 135 GX model which retails for $5999, but at the time of this review, the GX model is on sale for $4499.

Specifications - All Arktos 135 models come with the same suspension, Fox Factory 36 GRIP2 in the front, and the website lists the Fox Factory DPX2 for the rear shock, although my review bike came with a Fox Float X. All models come stock with a Fox Factory dropper post, Tag Metals bars & stem, Industry Nine Hydra wheels (Boost 15x110 front, Super Boost 12x157 rear). The GX model as tested came with SRAM Guide 2 brakes (4 piston front and rear), and a full GX drivetrain

First Impressions - Rightaway when unboxing this bike, I was really happy with the build quality and very impressed right off the back. I'll admit to not knowing about this brand before being contacted to review it. This is a review bike and no money exchanged hands for the review, and I have to send back the bike after 6 months. On my first ride, I had several people ask if the bike was a Yeti, which is funny because this bike shares a long history with Yeti, but more on that later on.