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, Ill 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 youre searching for a replacement for your very old hybrid or mountain bike.

And:

You dont know what type of surface youll encounter but you dont want to be limited. So, its 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 dont bother. Except XDS.

Because XDS foremost is an engineering brand.

In fact, they arent very good at sales and marketing, especially compared to brands like Giant, Specialized, Trek and others.

So its rare to find people that have heard of them. Except if youre 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 itisntrequired.

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 Rises 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 insmoothergear shifts.

More sprockets means theres less gap between each one. So the chain doesnt have to work as hard to change between each gear (or sprocket).

9 speed gears also give riders abroadgear 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.

Theres 2 paddles - push the top one for going into a harder (or faster) gear and the bottom to make it easier (or if youre 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 dont need as much maintenance as mechanical brakes do.

Thefeelis also quite different.

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

And that means theres almost no effort required to slow down. Youll notice this everywhere, but especially if your local route or commute has hilly descents.

Theres alsolessmaintenance.

Yep. True. Most people think hydraulics require more. But its the opposite.

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

COMFORT, RESPONSE & VERSATILITY

The XDS Rises 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 Kendas 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 isnt 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.