"I found it impossible to take riding seriously aboard this hardtail, and that’s a good thing"
- bikemag.com
The OG trail tool
Rootdown [Series VI]
The new Rootdown is a continuation of a story that has been evolving ever since we first started making hardtail frames over 20 years ago. We love the simplicity and purity of hardtails and revel in how capable and versatile they can be. The Series VI represents everything we’ve learned and evolved into this model to date! The Rootdown can be a bike for almost any type of ride and if you are looking for a 29er hardtail that delivers confidence and versatility in some of the most demanding terrain, the Rootdown is ready to deliver.
The Series VI carries forward the tried and tested geometry the Rootdown is known for with all sizing spec. remaining consistent to the previous version. New for 2024 are updates to tubing, materials, finishes, machined junction and interfaces.
160mm
29"
Steel
3 Year Warranty
![Rootdown [Series VI]](http://chromagbikes.com/cdn/shop/files/chromag-rootdown-complete-chestnut.jpg?v=1715876504&width=2000)
![Rootdown [Series VI]](http://chromagbikes.com/cdn/shop/files/Rootdown-frame-black.jpg?v=1715876525&width=2000)
![Rootdown [Series VI]](http://chromagbikes.com/cdn/shop/files/chromag-rootdown-frame-chestnut.jpg?v=1715876655&width=2000)
![Rootdown [Series VI]](http://chromagbikes.com/cdn/shop/files/chromag-chromag-rootdown-complete-chestnut-3343-WEB.jpg?v=1715876702&width=1600)
![Rootdown [Series VI]](http://chromagbikes.com/cdn/shop/files/chromag-chromag-rootdown-complete-chestnut-3328-WEB.jpg?v=1715876772&width=1600)
![Rootdown [Series VI]](http://chromagbikes.com/cdn/shop/files/chromag-chromag-rootdown-complete-chestnut-3347-WEB.jpg?v=1715876772&width=1068)
![Rootdown [Series VI]](http://chromagbikes.com/cdn/shop/files/chromag-chromag-rootdown-complete-black-1908-WEB.jpg?v=1715876772&width=1600)
![Rootdown [Series VI]](http://chromagbikes.com/cdn/shop/files/chromag-chromag-rootdown-complete-black-1910-WEB.jpg?v=1715876772&width=1600)
![Rootdown [Series VI]](http://chromagbikes.com/cdn/shop/files/chromag-rootdown-complete-chestnut_114x144_crop_center.jpg?v=1715876504)
![Rootdown [Series VI]](http://chromagbikes.com/cdn/shop/files/Rootdown-frame-black_114x144_crop_center.jpg?v=1715876525)
![Rootdown [Series VI]](http://chromagbikes.com/cdn/shop/files/chromag-rootdown-frame-chestnut_114x144_crop_center.jpg?v=1715876655)
![Rootdown [Series VI]](http://chromagbikes.com/cdn/shop/files/chromag-chromag-rootdown-complete-chestnut-3343-WEB_114x144_crop_center.jpg?v=1715876702)
![Rootdown [Series VI]](http://chromagbikes.com/cdn/shop/files/chromag-chromag-rootdown-complete-chestnut-3328-WEB_114x144_crop_center.jpg?v=1715876772)
![Rootdown [Series VI]](http://chromagbikes.com/cdn/shop/files/chromag-chromag-rootdown-complete-chestnut-3347-WEB_114x144_crop_center.jpg?v=1715876772)
![Rootdown [Series VI]](http://chromagbikes.com/cdn/shop/files/chromag-chromag-rootdown-complete-black-1908-WEB_114x144_crop_center.jpg?v=1715876772)
![Rootdown [Series VI]](http://chromagbikes.com/cdn/shop/files/chromag-chromag-rootdown-complete-black-1910-WEB_114x144_crop_center.jpg?v=1715876772)
"The new Rootdown continues a story that has been evolving since Chromag started making hardtail frames over twenty years ago"
- The Radavist
Builds & Specs
• Fork // Rock Shox Lyrik Ultimate 160mm Boost 110x15mm
• Stem // Chromag HiFi BSX 40mm
• Bar// Chromag OSX 25mm Rise, 800mm
• Headset // Cane Creek Forty ZS
• Crank // SRAM GX 170mm
• Brakes // SRAM Code RSC
• Rotors // SRAM HS2 180mm
• Shifter // SRAM GX Eagle
• Cassette // SRAM GX Eagle 10-52t
• Derailleur // SRAM GX Eagle
• Rims // Chromag 29" Phase30
• Hubs // Chromag R4
• Tires // Maxxis Minion DHF/DHR
• Seatpost // RockShox Reverb
(125mm - S) (150mm - M) (175mm - M/L) (200mm - L, XL)
• Saddle // Chromag Trailmaster DT
• Grips // Chromag Format
• Chain // SRAM GX Eagle
Build options are subject to availability and liable to change without notice.
• Wheel Size // 29" or 27+
• Recommended Fork Travel // 160mm (±10mm)
• Material // 4130 Chromoly Steel
• Frame Weight (M/L) // 7.13lbs
• Hub Spacing // Boost 148mm
• Headset // 44-56 Semi Integrated
• Seat Clamp Size // 35mm
• Seat Post Size // 31.6mm
• BB // BSA 73mm Threaded
• Hanger // UDH (Included)
• Rear Axle // 180mm, M12 X 1.00mm - Boost 148 UDH (Included)
• Brake Mount // 180mm Post
• Frame Origin // Taiwan
The Rootdown Series VI
4130
The Rootdown is made from quality 4130 chromoly steel tubing. Chromoly is an abbreviation for chromium-molybdenum indicating the materials that the steel is alloyed with.
The added chromium helps increase the steels hardenability and also provide some corrosion resistance.
The molybdenum helps to increase the toughness of the steel.
It has a high tensile strength but is also malleable which is what gives our frames their notorious ride quality and feel. Chromoly is often used when more strength is required than that of mild carbon steel.
It falls under the AISI (American Iron & Steel Institute) 41XX designations which is where the “41” comes from. The “30” indicates it contains approximately 0.30% carbon by weight.
Chromoly is much stronger than traditional 1020 steel and it has a higher strength to weight ratio and high tensile strength, which means we can use less material and achieve a product that can withstand the abuse that riders love to throw at it.
Electrophoretic Deposition
ED (Electrophoretic Deposition) coating is the process of applying a thin layer of coating to all surfaces of a part, both inside and out.
Our ED coating is applied by fully submerging the frame in a liquid, to which, an electric field is applied (a bit like anodising). Not only does this completely envelop the frame inside and out, but it provides an incredibly even layer of protection.
This gives our frames great corrosion protection as the inside of all tubes are also coated.
The ED coat also acts as a great primer for the paint to adhere to.
The 6th series of the rootdown has post brake mounts, threaded bb, and our new E.D. undercoating
key features
We've never tried to hide the fact some of our products are made in Taiwan, in fact, we're proud of it.
Our Taiwanese partners are incredibly skilled and some of the best in the business.
As you would expect, these products are held to the same strict standards that we're renowned for.
Your bike is special. The head tube badge is the finishing touch so we’ve always made a point of taking the time to do something interesting with it. Our head tube badges have changed over the years and are an indication of the time each bike was made.
Whether it’s a cast bronze, or polished stainless steel, water cut aluminum or a 3D CNC carving, each one represents our commitment to detail.
New on the series 6, are post brake mounts and 73mm threaded BB.
Post mount tabs reduce hardware and the need for adaptors. If you are running the stock 180mm rear rotor you won't need an adapter at all.
Yes, steel might be a little heavier than it's
more flashy contemporaries, but these bikes are built to last. We use high grade 4130 Chromoly steel which is durable and contributes to a great feel as well. Steel tubes are known for their compliance and lend a calm, vibration-absorbent feeling to the ride of the frame.
Steel can theoretically last forever provided it's ridden within the scope for which it was intended.
The UDH is designed to optimize shift performance across all bikes as well as create a sensible solution for replacing damaged hangers. The UDH has been widely adopted throughout the cycling industry with hundreds of models already featuring it.
Whether you get your bike in a box, or roll it out the front door here at Chromag HQ, you can rest assured your bike has been pored over with pride, and built with the utmost attention to detail by one of our extremely talented mechanics.
Threads are chased, seat tubes are reamed, head tubes are honed, fits are checked and checked again, all to make sure when you get your bike, everything is absolutely dialed.
The one stop shop aggro hardtail.
geometry
The Rootdown is the latest evolution of our take on an aggressive do it all hardtail. Comfortable enough for all day adventures and capable enough for any mission. Many have tried to impersonate the long standing Rootdown.
| Frame Size | STypical Rider Height: 155cm - 165cm | MTypical Rider Height: 163cm - 174cm | M/LTypical Rider Height: 172cm - 183cm | LTypical Rider Height: 181cm - 192cm | XLTypical Rider Height: 190cm - 200cm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 630 | 630 | 639 | 648 | 657 | |
| 421 | 446 | 463 | 487 | 503 | |
| 578 | 603 | 622 | 648 | 667 | |
| 105 | 105 | 105 | 115 | 125 | |
| 1177 | 1202 | 1223 | 1251 | 1272 | |
| 50.8 | 50.8 | 50.8 | 50.8 | 50.8 | |
| 320 | 320 | 320 | 320 | 320 | |
| 677 | 714 | 738 | 762 | 799 | |
| 425 | 425 | 425 | 425 | 425 | |
| 368 | 406 | 431 | 456 | 494 | |
| 188 | 226 | 251 | 276 | 314 | |
| 64° | |||||
| 76° | |||||
| 29'' | |||||
* Max. post insertion based on Rockshox Reverb
THIS IS AN APPROXIMATE GUIDE, SOME PEOPLE HAVE LONGER LEGS THAN OTHERS!
Sizing
If you're between sizes, it's a good idea to try to ride them both, either by hopping on a demo or stealing from a close friend. If that isn't an option, examine reach, stack and ETT numbers on your current bike and compare. If in any doubt, please get in touch and we'd be happy to chat about it with you.
You could also check out the review section, to see how this bike fits other people.
Catch a rare glimpse of the rootdown out in the wild.
gallery
Questions?
Buying a bike is a big deal.
Don't hesitate to reach out with any and all questions!
Worldwide shipping
We ship bikes anywhere in the world with competitive rates from UPS and FedEx. Alternatively you can pickup right here at Chromag HQ.
Warranty
All of our bikes are backed by our 3 year warranty.
After that, we still have your back with our crash replacement program.
FAQ's
This is possible but does notably change the geometry. The change results in approximately 1° slacker head and seat tube angles, 20mm shorter reach and BB height 10mm closer to the ground.
A 2.5” Maxxis fits with appropriate room around it.
No, there are no ISCG mounts on the Rootdown [Series VI].
All our frames can work with +/-10mm of fork travel. To generalise the geometry change is around a 0.5° slacker head tube and seat tube angle for every 10mm added.
All geared hardtails run a standard boost chain line (52mm)
With a 52mm chainline (SRAM boost standard), the Rootdown [Series VI] can fit up to a 34-tooth chainring.
For context, most of us here are running a 30t, with a 10/52 cassette.
There is a serial number on the back of your fork arch, adding this to Rockshox Trailhead app along with your weight gives a good baseline setting.
Post mount brakes are a much more common standard these days, which means in most cases this negates the use of an adapter.
We were seeing a great deal of variation in diameter from BB manufacturers. This is very hard to account for with a press fit.
Threaded BB's (and threads in general) are much more standardised, which means less variance from one to another. Also, the action of tightening down the cup into the frame more easily accounts for variations in thread quality from different BB manufacturers.
We chase the BB threads on every frame, ensuring good fit with both OE and aftermarket bottom brackets.
It does, however the specific blend of steel we use (CR-MO) has very good corrosion resistant properties.
The Rootdown [Series VI] also has our ED coating inside and out which further helps protect it from the elements.
Nothing of note on this frame. Please let us know if you have tried to fit a more obscure component and faced issues.
Greasing you seat post prevents this issues, we strongly recommend re-greasing every 6 months at a minimum.
Not much! Here's what you need to do if we shipped your bike to you:
• Inflate tires to desired pressure. (Sealant is already installed)
• Install brake rotors, tightening bolts to 6.2Nm.
• Attach derailleur to frame, tightening to 9Nm making sure that the B-tension tab rests properly against the derailleur hanger stop.
• Grease headset bearings, install fork and handlebar, positioning the headset spacers above or below the stem according to rider fit.
• Align handlebar stem, preload headset and tighten stem pinch bolts to 8Nm.
• Install wheels, tighten axles.
• Install chain with quick link.
• Grease pedal threads and install pedals using pedal washers supplied.
• Adjust brakes, shifters, saddle position and height for personal preference.
• Set up suspension.
• Bed-in brakes. (Roll down a gentle gradient dragging one brake at a time. Avoid locking them up.)
• Go ride!
Note: If you had to Google "Nm", or you don't know which way to install your rotors, you should probably get a qualified mechanic to build your bike!
Here's what's been done:
• Chain length adjusted.
• Gears adjusted.
• Brakes set up and bled.
• Handlebar tightened to 6Nm.
• Grips tight on handlebar.
• Crankset tight, bottom bracket tight/adjusted.
• Saddle and seatpost tight.
• Seatpost greased *make sure to re-grease every 6 months!
• Tire sealant installed.
• Cassette tight.
Customer Reviews
Big money dollars quality swag sick doppeddidy dope dog
Always wanted a steel Hardtail. Being a Hardtail fan for years, I have ALWAYS had the desire to get one of these. Steel IS Real, and the team at Chromag knows how to make one heck of a hardcore Hardtail. The way this rides is different than anything I have ridden before from years of owning aluminum and carbon. Love my new Rootdown!!
Title says it all! Love the bike and the customer service when i ordered was amazing, thanks again Dave! I ride predominately on the North Shore and the Rootdown has the geometry to ride just about anything smoothly. Been putting it to the test for the last 4 months and its proven to hold up well, stoked to rip it for many years to come!
I have a 2020 M/L Indigo Blue which started out life with a 150mm fork and riding on 27.5 x 3.0 tires with 35mm inner width rims. Being 68 and not shredding like I'm in my 20's I found the 150mm fork a bit too much. I have since converted my bike to a mullet 27.5 x 2.8 rear and 29 x 2.6 front-both on 38mm inner width rims. My fork is a highly underrated Roughcut HLR X-Fusion McQueen 140mm but with crown to axle similar to a 150mm fork. I love this set up--it just fits, feels so right, rolls great, handles great, just feels so natural.
I'm 5'8" and like the extra little bit of stretch on the M/L.
I plan on keeping and riding this bike until I'm 70--and hopefully beyond.
Just did my first ride and I love this bike! Great geo and handles really well.
I recently upgraded to my second Rootdown, and I couldn't be happier with my decision. Having owned the 2017 model previously, I was pleasantly surprised by the subtle yet impactful refinements in the geometry of the latest version.
The slacker head tube and steeper seat tube contribute significantly to my confidence as a rider. I feel more in control and comfortable when climbing and descending.
Moreover, my experience with Chromag has been nothing short of exceptional. Their professionalism, promptness, and unwavering support have truly set them apart. It's reassuring to know that I'm not just purchasing a bike, but investing in a relationship with a company that values its customers.
I look forward to seeing what Chromag has to offer in another 5-10 years. I will be back for more!!!
The geo is great the bike is very compliant for a hardtail, handles the chunk better than any other hardtail I've owned. Will be coming back to buy a Monk DJ
I bought this bad boy thinking I’d use it as a second bike to make easier trails more fun when winter keeps us away from gnarlier options. I’ve only ridden fs but once I got used to this it quickly became my go to on double black rides - I’m shocked how capable it is. I’m 5’9” and the M/L is the perfect size.
