BTCHN' Alpina: A New Contender in the 32er Hardtail Mountain Bike Market

BTCHN' has officially launched its latest offering, the Alpina, a steel hardtail mountain bike, marking a strategic pivot for the company. This model, boasting three standard sizes and a starting price of $6,800, represents founder Tyler Reiswig's transition from bespoke frame building to limited-run production. The commitment to crafting each frame by hand in the USA ensures that the Alpina maintains the high standards of design and ride quality previously associated with custom-made bikes.

The Alpina's construction features a TIG-welded Reynolds steel frame, produced in collaboration with Falconer Bikes in Plumas County, California. Key specifications include UDH dropouts, triple bottle mounts, and a distinctive crackle finish. Designed to accommodate 32-inch tires up to 2.6 inches wide, the bike utilizes Super Boost rear spacing, a 55mm chainline, and ships with 32x2.4" Maxxis Aspen tires. Its geometry, characterized by a kinked seat tube for enhanced dropper post insertion, varying chainstay lengths, and a 67-degree head tube angle with a 120mm suspension fork, aims to provide a stable and integrated riding experience. The standover height, starting at 844mm for the medium size, is notably higher than that of typical 29er bikes.

Reflecting the nascent state of 32-inch wheel components, BTCHN' offers the Alpina exclusively as a complete bike, with options for upgrading components such as the fork and wheels. The standard configuration includes a Wren 32" inverted fork, Astral Jester 32" alloy wheels, and a mechanical T-type drivetrain with a Madrone Jab derailleur and 30T chainring. This launch places BTCHN' Alpina within a select group of independent brands embracing the 32er standard, a trend reminiscent of the early days of 29er adoption, where smaller manufacturers led innovation before larger brands eventually followed suit.

The emergence of the BTCHN' Alpina and other 32er mountain bikes highlights a dynamic and innovative spirit within the cycling industry. This movement towards larger wheel sizes, spearheaded by independent builders, demonstrates a continuous pursuit of improved performance and rider experience. It underscores the importance of embracing new technologies and designs, inspiring the community to explore uncharted territories in mountain biking.