XDS Rise 3.0 Disc

The XDS Rise 3.0 is a versatile hybrid bike featuring a lightweight X6 alloy frame for agility and efficiency. It has 700c x 40 tyres for comfort and protection, reliable hydraulic disc brakes, and Suntour Nex DS HLO suspension for absorbing bumps. The bike is equipped with a Shimano Altus Shadow 9-speed drivetrain for tackling various terrains, and includes modern components like alloy handlebars, stem, and wheels. 

A DEEP DIVE

In this preview, I’ll explain why the Rise 3.0 should be on your shortlist of bikes and cover the most important areas before you make a decision.

WHO IS THE RISE 3.0 FOR?

The Rise 3.0 is designed for family bike rides, general fitness, commuting and easy touring.

It will appeal to those who are getting back into riding (after Life happened) or you’re searching for a replacement for your very old hybrid or mountain bike.

And:

You don’t know what type of surface you’ll encounter but you don’t want to be limited. So, it’s got to be capable on light dirt, gravel and asphalt paths.

THE FRAME

The frame is finished to a far higher standard than what we typically see from other manufacturers at this price point.

Why?

Because XDS are a bunch of engineers, their focus is on build-quality and craftsmanship.

High-end finishes like high-polish welds (above) are not standard, they require a lot of time, effort and expense.

So, most brands don’t bother. Except XDS.

Because XDS foremost is an engineering brand.

In fact, they aren’t very good at sales and marketing, especially compared to brands like Giant, Specialized, Trek and others.

So it’s rare to find people that have heard of them. Except if you’re in the industry.

OK. Nerd talk time:

X6 is XDS’ premium level aluminium. And to make the frame, it uses a process called triple-butting.

This means, each main hollow tube has 3-different thicknesses (and not 1 thickness like most frames).

The tubes are thinnest where the force is least and thickest where the force on the frame is greatest.

Most brands use a cheaper single-butted frame at this price point.

The reason why XDS do:

Triple-butting removes excess material where it isn’t required.

This means the frame is the lightest and strongest it can possibly be. Kinda like a lean, fit athlete with minimal body fat.

Single-butted frames take a more ‘relaxed’ approach to frame design - near enough is good enough.

Lastly, cables are routed inside the Rise’s frame for a much cleaner and neater look.

THE GEARS

There are 3 front and 9 rear gears, delivering 27 total gears (we call this a 9 speed setup).

To give you a bit of context:

7 speed bikes tend to be entry-level. 8 speed bikes are mid-range recreational. 9 speed bikes are upper-end recreational.

10 speed and more are getting into the performance range.

Another way to think about this:

More gears on the back results in smoother gear shifts.

More sprockets means there’s less “gap” between each one. So the chain doesn’t have to work as hard to change between each gear (or sprocket).

9 speed gears also give riders a broad gear selection too.

Climbing hills becomes super easy (okay, okay, less difficult) and you also have a higher top speed.

Trigger shifters control the gears.

A large display shows riders what your current gear is.

There’s 2 paddles - push the top one for going into a harder (or faster) gear and the bottom to make it easier (or if you’re riding uphill).

HYDRAULIC DISC BRAKES

Hydraulic disc brakes are a key part of the Rise 3.0.

Out of all the braking types, hydro disc brakes work the best; they are exceptional in dry and wet conditions.

Not only that, but they don’t need as much maintenance as mechanical brakes do.

The feel is also quite different.

They are so much smoother to operate; there’s almost no effort needed to pull the lever.

And that means there’s almost no effort required to slow down. You’ll notice this everywhere, but especially if your local route or commute has hilly descents.

There’s also less maintenance.

Yep. True. Most people think hydraulics require more. But it’s the opposite.

Lastly, hydro disc brakes are better for smaller hands. That’s because the levers can be adjusted closer to the handlebars - without losing performance.

COMFORT, RESPONSE & VERSATILITY

The XDS Rise’s rims are made from aluminium but double-walled for strength and rigidity.

The rims are also slightly wider than normal. This means less chance of bending and buckling.

The Rise 3.0 uses Kenda’s hybrid tyres. These are 45mm wide; perfect for smooth dirt and light gravel - like the Warburton Rail Trail.

And at 45mm wide allow for “more” air inside the tyre; this delivers a much smoother ride than a narrower tyre.

Another upgrade is the wheel hubs.

The bearings are much smoother than most bikes at this price point.

Plus, the hubs engage faster.

This means less effort to pedal the Rise 3.0 (especially uphill) and it makes the Rise a lot more responsive to ride because it reacts almost instantly to your pedalling.

Next, the front suspension can be controlled via the blue lever (above) for 2 modes; plush or firm.

Use the plush mode for riding on dirt, gravel and rough paved bike paths. And use firm for smooth bike paths where suspension isn’t required.

Riders who want accessories fitted can easily do so.

The Rise 3.0 frame is compatible with water bottle cages, pumps, pannier racks and pannier bags.