TransAM Complete Bike

The 2024 Transition TransAM marks the return of the brand's classic steel hardtail, reimagined for modern aggressive trail riding. Moving away from its cross-country origins, this iteration is built around a 150mm fork and 29-inch wheels, positioning it as a heavy-duty option for steep, fast terrain. The 4130 chromoly frame prioritizes simplicity and future-proofing, featuring fully external cable routing, a threaded bottom bracket, and SRAM UDH compatibility. Transition also includes custom sliding dropouts, allowing riders to adjust the rear-center length or set the bike up as a singlespeed. Designed with Pacific Northwest trails in mind, the TransAM suits riders looking for a durable, straightforward platform that can handle significant impacts and high speeds. It is a stripped-back machine that trades lightweight efficiency for rugged capability, appealing to those who want a long-term frame for demanding descents.

$1,999

Build

Size

Stack	641mm
Reach	460mm
Top tube	614mm
Headtube length	105mm
Standover height	667mm
Seat tube length	400mm

Fit and geometry

The TransAM’s geometry heavily influences its descending stability and climbing posture. A slack 64-degree head tube angle and a long reach—measuring 485mm on a size large—create a stretched, forward-leaning stance that excels at high speeds. This long front center keeps the front wheel securely ahead of the rider on steep pitches, though the resulting long wheelbase requires deliberate physical input to navigate tight switchbacks or execute low-speed maneuvers like manuals.

To balance the slack front end, Transition utilizes a steep 76.5-degree effective seat tube angle. This places the rider in an upright, forward-biased seated position that prevents the front wheel from wandering during steep, technical climbs. While this geometry aids in maintaining traction and power delivery on ascents, the straight, vertical orientation of the seat tube transfers trail impacts directly upward. Consequently, seated pedaling over rough terrain can feel harsh, encouraging riders to stand through choppy sections. The sliding dropouts offer 12mm of chainstay adjustment, allowing the rear center to be tuned from a compact 425mm to a more stable 437mm.

Full specs

Frameset

Frame

TransAM Chromoly Steel

Fork

Marzocchi Z2 (150mm)

Weight

33.0 lbs / 14.97 kg (Size MD)

Groupset

Shift levers

SRAM NX Eagle MMX

Rear derailleur

SRAM NX Eagle

Cassette

SRAM PG-1230 (12-speed, 11-50T)

Chain

SRAM NX Eagle

Crankset

SRAM Descendent 6k DUB (30T, 170mm)

Bottom bracket

SRAM DUB

Front brake

SRAM DB8 hydraulic disc

Rear brake

SRAM DB8 hydraulic disc

Front rotor

SRAM Centerline 200mm

Rear rotor

SRAM Centerline 180mm

Wheelset

Front wheel

WTB ST i30; Novatech D791SB; Pillar Double Butted

Rear wheel

WTB ST i30; Novatech D902SB; Pillar Double Butted

Front tire

Maxxis Assegai 3C EXO+ 29x2.5

Rear tire

Maxxis Minion DHR II 3C EXO+ 29x2.4

Cockpit

Stem

RaceFace Aeffect R (40mm)

Handlebars

RaceFace Chester 35; SM/MD: 780x20mm, LG/XL: 780x35mm

Saddle

SDG Bel Air 3

Seatpost

OneUp Dropper Post; SM: 150mm, MD: 180mm, LG/XL: 210mm

Grips

ODI Elite Flow Lock-On

Builds

Transition offers the TransAM in a single complete build, with pricing varying slightly based on the frame finish—a standard painted option or a premium chrome treatment. The specification focuses heavily on functional, durable components rather than lightweight parts. Suspension is handled by a 150mm Marzocchi Bomber Z2 fork, which provides reliable, easy-to-tune performance, while braking duties fall to SRAM's mineral-oil DB8 four-piston hydraulic discs.

A standout feature of the build is the inclusion of a OneUp V2 dropper post, with travel lengths appropriately scaled to frame size, reaching up to 210mm on the large and extra-large models. The drivetrain and rolling stock, however, reflect the bike's budget-conscious price point. A SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain handles shifting, paired with heavy WTB ST i30 aluminum wheels and aggressive Maxxis tires—an Assegai up front and a Minion DHR II in the rear, both utilizing EXO+ casings. This component mix contributes significantly to the bike's overall weight. For riders looking to improve acceleration and climbing efficiency, upgrading the wheels and tires presents the most immediate opportunity to shed mass.

Complete Bike

$1,999

Selected

Complete Bike (Chrome)

$1,999

Reviews

Reviewers consistently characterize the TransAM as a heavy-duty charger rather than a sprightly trail bike. Weighing over 33 pounds in its complete build, the bike requires effort on flat terrain and smooth climbs. Testers noted a sluggish demeanor at lower speeds, with one reviewer stating it "feels like lead in the tires" (YouTube) during initial acceleration. However, that mass translates into exceptional stability when the trail points downward. In fast, rocky sections, the bike holds its line remarkably well, proving to be "one of the best handling hardtails in that fast, rocky tech" (YouTube).

The 150mm Marzocchi Z2 fork is a focal point of the ride experience, drawing mixed reactions. While it absorbs large, isolated impacts with ease, the long travel creates noticeable geometry shifts on successive hits. This dynamic can make the front end feel unpredictable in tight, chunky terrain, leading one tester to suggest the bike might benefit from a shorter fork to mitigate the "stapler effect" (Bikepacking).

Assessments of the 4130 chromoly frame's compliance vary. While it effectively mutes high-frequency trail chatter, several riders found the chassis somewhat overbuilt and firm on square-edge impacts, lacking the springy sensation often associated with premium steel frames. Despite this, the consensus points to a highly capable descender that rewards an aggressive riding style, provided the rider is willing to muscle it through tight corners and endure a slower pace on the ascents.