Chromag Minor Threat: Unleashing the Next Generation of Park Rats
The Chromag Minor Threat kids mountain bike has elevated the off-road experience for young riders, thanks to its attention to suspension specifications and performance-driven components. Chromag's commitment to young riders is evident in the details. Even though they missed the mark on a couple ergonomic issues, this bike is a top-tier choice for budding mountain biking kids ready to shred the bike park. We tested the smallest size (s1) in the 24 inch wheel configuration.
The Chromag Minor Threat continues to impress with its robust construction and advanced specifications. The frame, available in two sizes, boasts an exceptional Rock Shox Reba 26” (S1) or Lyrik 27.5” (S2, S3) fork, providing 140mm and 150mm of travel, respectively. The Rock Shox Deluxe Select shock handles the rear suspension duties.
Build:
Unleashing the full potential of young riders, the Chromag Minor Threat features a Chromag HiFi BSX 31mm stem, Chromag Vanguard 720mm handlebar, and a Cane Creek Forty ZS headset. This combination delivers precise handling and control, allowing young adventurers to navigate with ease if they are on the larger size (see below re: handlebar). The SRAM X1 Eagle DUB cranksets and SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain provide a seamless and reliable riding experience. The SRAM NX Eagle shifter, coupled with the SRAM NX Eagle cassette, ensures smooth gear transitions although we would opt for lesser range for a lighter cassette since 24 inch wheels lower the gear ratio ( you don't need a 50 inch rear cog). The SRAM Code RSC brakes with 180mm rotors offer excellent stopping power and may even be a little overkill but this is a lift access park bike.
MSRP: $3950 CAD
- Fork (S1): Rock Shox Reba 26”, 140mm
- Fork (S2, S3): Rock Shox Lyrik 27.5”, 150mm
- Shock: Rock Shox Deluxe Select, 165 x 45mm
- Stem: Chromag HiFi BSX 31mm
- Handlebar: Chromag Vanguard, 720mm, 31.8mm
- Headset: Cane Creek Forty ZS
- Crank (S1, S2): SRAM X1 Eagle DUB, 155mm, 30t
- Crank (S3): SRAM X1 Eagle DUB, 165mm, 30t
- Brakes: SRAM Code RSC
- Rotors: SRAM 180mm
- Shifter: SRAM NX Eagle
- Cassette: SRAM NX Eagle 10-50t
- Derailleur: SRAM GX Eagle
- Chain: SRAM NX Eagle
- Rims: Chromag Alloy
- Hubs: Chromag R4
- Tires: Maxxis Minion DHF/DHR II
- Seatpost: Chromag Bassix
- Saddle: Chromag Overture
- Grips: Chromag Format
- Weight: 30 lbs
Suspension:
The Chromag Minor Threat's suspension system is a standout feature, delivering exceptional performance on the trails. The Rock Shox Reba (S1) and Lyrik (S2, S3) forks provide 140mm and 150mm of travel, respectively, absorbing bumps and providing a smooth ride over varied terrain. We like the 26 inch Reba for lighter riders but feel it can use a slightly even lighter tune for riders under 65 lbs. Setting up forks for little kids is always a challenge as running low air pressures tends to cause the fork to pack up and become harsh (fork is unable to return fast enough even with zero rebound compression) while too much air results in not reaching full travel. We were able to get full travel but was a fine line to get the fork to return reasonably fast with the rebound all the way open on the Reba.
The Chromag Minor Threat V2 represents a thoughtful evolution in design principles for kids, showcasing a commitment to consistent kinematics, reasonable progression, and a supportive pedaling platform. While staying true to these core principles, Chromag has fine-tuned the kinematics specifically for lighter riders. The result is a bike with a higher starting and average leverage ratio, coupled with less progression than its adult counterparts, allowing the rear travel to be efficiently utilized by young riders of lower weight. The Rock Shox Deluxe Select shock, with 165 x 45mm dimensions, pairs well with the overall suspension performance, ensuring young riders experience comfort and control on every ride.
Durability:
Chromag's attention to durability is evident in the selection of components. The Chromag Alloy rims, Chromag R4 hubs, and Maxxis Minion tires ensure reliability on the trail, while the Chromag Bassix seatpost and Overture saddle withstand the rigors of bike park adventures. This is a high quality solid frame paired with a robust part spec. The downhill intentions of this bike results in a 30 lb weight, fine for hard charging kids riding the chairlift.
Geometry:
The geometry of the Minor Threat is bang-on for its intentions. A slack head angle, low stand over, 360mm reach and stable wheelbase all hit the mark.
Ergonomics:
The Chromag Minor Threat maintains its commitment to rider comfort with the Chromag Overture saddle and Format grips. However, the new Vanguard bar doesn't hold up to its predecessor. The new bar is long and needs to be cut much shorter for a 24 inch ride. The trouble comes trying to run the brakes inboard enough as the rise in the bar prevents this. The old Vanguard bar was amazing, please go back for the 24 Chromag!
The 155mm cranks also need to be shorter. This size of bike would do much better with 140mm or shorter cranks.
Value for Money:
While the Chromag Minor Threat might be considered an investment, the value it provides with its top components and great performance makes it a standout choice in the realm of kids' mountain bikes who ride the bike park. Chromag has truly delivered a bike that rips the bike park albeit it could use a couple of tweaks as outlined above.
The Chromag Minor Threat kids mountain bike is a force to be reckoned with in the youth mountain bike park scene. With a focus on solid components, durability, and suspension performance, Chromag has crafted a bike that empowers young riders to push their limits and embrace the thrill of downhill mountain biking. If you're looking to ignite a passion for hard charging mountain biking in your child, the Chromag Minor Threat may be the bike to choose. -Colin
