When he’s not working tirelessly to keep our website or bike builder running smoothly, our web manager Victor is likely out on Galbraith aboard his carbon Transition Sentinel. Having previously spent many years aboard a well-loved alloy V2 Sentinel, Victor upgraded to a current carbon GX complete. The bike didn’t keep its stock appearance long, as Victor upgraded various key components, making this bike a perfect example of how upgrading a “mid-level” complete can result in a stand-out custom build. I caught up with Victor to ask him which components he upgraded on this build and how it performs out on the trail. 

Bike Details

Frame: Transition Sentinel 

Wheels: WeAreOne Convergence Triad 

Tires: Maxxis Assegai Exo+ MaxxGrip / DHR II Exo+ MaxxTerra 

Drivetrain: SRAM GX 12-speed DUB Boost Lunar Groupset

Brakes: TRP DHR-EVO

Cockpit: OneUp Carbon Bar 35mm, Tenet Nora V2.5 Stem 42mm, DMR Deathgrip Thin

Shock: RockShox Vivid Ultimate 205mm x 62.5mm 

Fork: Lyrik Ultimate 29" Charger 3 RC2 - 44mm Offset - 160mm 

Frame / Suspension

 A size large Misty Green Carbon Sentinel is the centerpiece of this build. The 150mm travel and balanced geometry of the Sentinel has established itself as a fantastic option for any rider wanting a highly capable enduro bike without fully sacrificing the climbing ability as harshly as some slacker, longer travel options on the market. 

In its stock configuration this build came outfitted with A Fox 36 Performance Elite paired with a Fox Float X in the rear. Victor opted to swap over to RockShox all around, with a 160mm Charger 3 RockShox Lyrik and a RockShox Vivid Ultimiate rear shock. 

What are the most significant changes you've noticed going from the previous generation sentinel to the current one? 

For one, my previous bike was alloy so going to carbon the bike is a lot lighter and easier to throw around. The current model is a bit more stable especially on steeper stuff. 

Suspension

Having previously spent many seasons aboard Fox suspension, Victor wanted to use his new bike build as an opportunity to try RockShox's latest offerings. He has opted for a RockShox Vivid in the rear paired with a Lyrik Ultimate up front to provide an ideal balance of traction and weight savings. 

How has your experience been with the RockShox Vivid? 

The Vivid has been awesome. My old bike had a coil and I haven't had any desire to go back to one with the way the Vivid performs. Plus, it keeps the bike a bit lighter. 

Wheels

For most stock completes, the wheelset is one of the part specs that could benefit most with an upgrade, and Victors was no different. He quickly swapped out the stock wheels for a WeAreOne Convergence wheelset.  The Convergence wheel set pairs together the ultra high engagement Industry Nine Hydra hubs with the expertly crafted Triad carbon rims to provide a wheel set that is just as durable and it is eye catching. 

What is your favorite component on your new bike? 

Either the Vivid or my custom wheels!

Drivetrain

No need to worry about charging batteries with this build. SRAM's no-fuss tried and true GX 12-speed groupset was more than enough for Victor, as it still performs well without breaking the bank allowing himself to better optimize his upgrades in other areas. If it ain't broke, don't fix it! 

Transition Bikes Now Available in Store 

Fanatik is pleased to announce complete Transition bikes are now on sale at our showroom in Bellingham, Wa. Swing through in person to check out a Transition bike for yourself! 

Transition Frames and Custom Builds

Transition bike frames are available for purchase for a custom bike build via our Bike Builder. Riders can select between the Spur, Smuggler, Sentinel, and Spire, providing travel and geometry options suited for any terrain. 

How to Demo a Transition Mountain Bike  

Riders in the Bellingham area can rent Transition’s lively 130mm travel Smuggler via our rental page.