On Wednesday night Two Wheels Trading launched their 2016 product range at a dealer event in Johannesburg. The all-new Momsen VIPA Team issue and XT were among the items on display.
Although we’ve already taken a first look at the Vipa XT on screen, we hadn’t yet seen it in the flesh, nor had we seen the new colour way for the Team issue spec.
2016 Momsen Vipa Team
For 2016 Momsen have gone for some distinctive, bold designs across the whole range and, on the VIPAs in particular, have included many detailed touches to the finishes and accessories.
The new Momsen Vipa Team is a looker with it’s striking red, black and white design and mixture of matte and gloss finishes. The Team issue spec comes kitted with Shimano XTR 1×11, XTR brakes and Fox Float Factory suspension on Stan’s No Tubes ZTR Crest hoops.
As with the VIPA XT (and AC models), the Team version features a map of the Baakens Valley trail in Port Elizabeth. The trails in and around PE hold a special place in the VIPA heritage being the primary testing grounds for the bikes.
2016 Momsen Vipa XT
Having already seen a preview of the new Momsen VIPA XT it will be less of a surprise to many. If you didn’t catch the preview take a look at the studio shots and full specs for the VIPA XT in the article here.
The 2016 Momsen VIPA XT stays with same component selection as before in form of a full Shimano XT group set, Fox Float suspension and Stan’s No Tubes ZTR Crest wheels, but with significant updates coming through from Shimano XT with their new M8000 11 speed series and Fox’s much improved FIT4 damper in the new Float 32.
Take a look at our preview of the 2016 Momsen VIPA XT for more detailed images and specs.
Custom Bottle Cage Adaptor, Cages and Bottles
Dual bottle adaptor
The stand-out feature on the 2016 VIPA range will certainly be the custom bottle cage adaptor which allows you to run two bottles comfortably in the front triangle. The adaptor itself has gone through three revisions to find the Goldilocks like “just-right” balance of weight and flex.
It’s a simple and effective solution to the two bottle problem which doesn’t compromise on the frame design, aesthetics or standover height.
You’ll be able to comfortably fit two 600ml bottles / 1.2L in a Medium frame and depending on the rear shock fitted might have space for 1 800ml bottle / 1.4L based on the. (A remote Fox shock takes up a bit more space than a remote RockShox Monarch which allows for a taller bottle.)
Left: Generation 1 was a beefy prototype. Right: Generation 2 was visibly slimmed down, but in the real world the weight shedding led to too much flex when removing bottles.
Above: Generation 3 found a happy medium between the two, keeping weight at a minimum, while maintaining stiffness.
Custom Carbon Cages
Along with the adaptor are some great looking, super light carbon bottle cages. The cages feature a side entry system allowing for easier access on cramped frames and come in a left or right entry option to suit your preference.
These will be available in black and white versions from September 2015.
Approx. retail price: R 450.00 incl. VAT
Custom Bottles
Momsen also introduced a new bottle range which feature a specifically shaped groove at the top of the bottles to fit their cages perfectly. The tailored fit means less chance of a lost bottle mid-trail, even if seatpost mounted. It’s a small, but no doubt useful touch for those who’ve ever hassled with bottle cage / bottle compatibility.
Indicative Pricing & Availability:
Both prices are dependant on exchange rates, but these should give you an idea.
2016 Momsen VIPA XT
Price: Similar to 2015 prices (The 2015 VIPA XT retailed at R 55,000.00 incl. VAT)
Availability: Now – already available via authorised dealers. See all the Authorised Momsen dealers on their site.
2016 Momsen VIPA Team
Price: Approx. R 75,000.00 incl. VAT
Availability: November 2015 via authorised dealers.
Damn....that looks damn fine
