Hakka MX Rival AXS

The current Hakka MX lineup is streamlined into two 12-speed SRAM 1x builds, both utilizing the same carbon frame, ENVE gravel fork, and aluminum wheelset. The entry point is the Apex build, which relies on SRAM’s mechanical Apex Eagle drivetrain. It pairs a 42-tooth alloy chainring with a massive 10-52T cassette, providing a wide gear range that easily handles steep, loaded climbs.

Stepping up to the Rival AXS build moves the bike to a fully wireless electronic drivetrain. This setup uses SRAM Rival AXS shifters paired with a GX Eagle AXS rear derailleur, maintaining the exact same 42T by 10-52T gearing spread but delivering the precise, low-effort shifting characteristic of electronic systems. Both builds roll on Stan's Crest alloy rims laced to Ibis hubs, wrapped in 40mm Maxxis Rambler tires, and feature an Ibis flared aluminum handlebar.

While earlier iterations of the V1 frame used 160mm rear rotors and supported mechanical front derailleurs, the current rebranded V1 frames are optimized for 140mm rear rotors and restrict 2x drivetrain compatibility to electronic front derailleurs only.

Reviewers consistently praise the Hakka MX for its exceptional pedaling efficiency and rapid acceleration. The stiff carbon chassis translates rider input directly to the dirt, giving the bike an "urgency not unlike my road bike" (Ridingtherivet) when sprinting out of corners. This rigidity makes it a highly capable climber, with testers noting its low weight helps it "scamper up even the steepest technical ascent" (Road.cc). On smooth gravel and pavement, the bike maintains speed effortlessly and responds immediately to steering inputs.

However, that same frame stiffness presents a clear tradeoff in ride comfort. Multiple reviewers point out that the chassis "can feel a little harsh compared to some of the competition" (Outdoorgearlab) over washboard and rocky terrain. Because the frame itself offers minimal compliance, riders must rely entirely on tire volume and pressure to absorb trail chatter.

To mitigate this, many testers recommend running 650b wheels with 2.1-inch mountain bike tires for rougher routes, which significantly smooths out the ride while maintaining the bike's quick handling. When set up with high-volume rubber, the Hakka MX transforms into an "absolute rocketship on the descents" (Outdoorgearlab), tracking predictably through loose corners. Across all wheel sizes, the inclusion of a threaded T47 bottom bracket and internal cable routing earns high marks for creating a "silent ride even on rocky descents" (Dualsportdiary) while eliminating the creaks often associated with press-fit designs.