While UK-based Whyte can’t compete directly, spec for spec, with the direct-sales brands, the equipment choices on the G-160 S are really well considered and the geometry is superb – and in some areas, really quite radical. At 479mm, the reach of the medium G-160 trumps that of all the nominally larger bikes here. The angles that count aren’t as crazy or out-there as you might think, though, with the head angle measuring in at 65.5 degrees and a seat angle of 74.5 degrees. At 332mm, the BB is one of the lowest on test and really does bolster the bike’s corner-carving potential. Everywhere we tried the Whyte, it was its shape that really stood out and made us want to ride that bit harder. Its proportions and cohesive build kit make it a lot of fun to ride at speed.
Whyte’s competitive pricing and traditional sales model explain why the G-160 is the only bike in the top six to come with a RockShox Yari, with its less sophisticated damper. It’s still a great fork, but the Lyrik is just that bit smoother and more composed. Still, the guys at Whyte know what they’re doing, and slapping a huge 2.5in WTB Convict tyre on a wide WTB STs i29 rim works a treat for taking the edge off that annoying trail chatter and buzz, flattering the fork nicely in the process. It feels well-supported too, and the ‘High Grip’ compound holds its own on damp rocks and roots.
The only real hang-up for us with this bike is the rear suspension, which requires some patience to get feeling right. Adding four volume bands made an immediately noticeable improvement, but the rear end still didn’t feel as capable or supportive as we’d have liked when trucking on through rough terrain. It’s by no means a bad set-up, but when compared to the competition here, it does fall ever so slightly short.
The aggressive geometry and solid spec sheet make you want to ride the G-160 as hard as you can. Careful shock tuning is needed if you want to push hard in rough terrain though
SPEC
Frame 6061-T6 aluminium, 160mm travel
Fork RockShox Yari RC Solo Air Boost, 160mm travel
Shock RockShox Monarch R DebonAir
Drivetrain SRAM GX with SRAM Descendant cranks
Wheelset WTB STs i29 rims on alloy hubs, WTB Convict Light/ High Grip 27.5x2.5in (f) and WTB Riddler Light/Fast Rolling 27.5x2.4in (r) tyres
Brakes SRAM Guide R, 180mm Bar/stem Whyte 35, 780mm/ Whyte Gravity 35, 40mm
Seatpost/saddle RockShox Reverb Stealth dropper/ Whyte
Weight 14.6kg (M)
Price $3900