At Crankworx Whistler 2026, RMU unveiled the Nighttrain, their inaugural mountain bike, featuring Dave Weagle’s innovative Orion linkage. This design aims to deliver a pedaling experience akin to shorter-travel trail bikes, even with its 170mm enduro-focused suspension. (bikemag.com)
Weagle emphasized that the dual idler system is “not a feature, but a solution,” optimizing chain positioning for efficiency. This configuration has already shown promise, with rider Jesse Melamed securing a second-place finish at the Canadian Open Enduro just prior to the launch event. (bikemag.com)
Looking ahead, RMU plans to expand its lineup with models offering 140mm and 160mm travel, as well as an eMTB variant. The adaptable Orion linkage is central to this strategy, allowing RMU to develop multiple bike models efficiently. Weagle noted that if the Nighttrain were a standalone project, it might not have featured the dual idler design. However, the primary goal was to create a versatile linkage adaptable to various bike models. (bikemag.com)
The Nighttrain’s DH build, showcased at Crankworx, includes a 190mm travel DH fork and a 7-speed drivetrain. Potential future enhancements discussed during the event include bump stops for DH forks, a flip-chip for mixed-wheel setups, and in-frame storage. These features may be incorporated in future iterations of the Nighttrain or RMU’s upcoming models. (bikemag.com)
In summary, RMU’s Nighttrain launch at Crankworx Whistler 2026 highlights the brand’s commitment to innovation and versatility in the mountain biking sector. With the Orion linkage at its core, the Nighttrain offers a unique riding experience and sets the stage for RMU’s future endeavors in the MTB market.