Issue: January 2002, pg. 102
Price: $599 (frame)
Purpose: Freeride hardtail
Contact: Planet X (650) 728-2453
D Value
D Weight: 29 pounds
C Frame design
C Fork performance: Marzocchi RAC coil, 3.5" travel
NA Rear Suspension: Hardtail
C Component selection
D Climbing performance
B Cornering ability
D Descending prowess
Test highlights: Planet X's Compo is a slalom, dirt jumping, trials and trail bike in one. It is tight and aptly suited for technical riding and obstacle stunts. The Easton RAD front triangle and square-tubed stays will easily handle the most abusive rider. Although it's a suitable trail bike, it's too stiff and choppy to take on four hour epics. The Hope Enduro 4 brakes dragged and the calipers needed to be spaced to center them over the disc. It will be necessary to add a guide to keep the chain from dropping while dirt jumping. Our other gripe was the Marzocchi RAC fork. A fork with another inch of travel would elevate the Compo up to an awesome hardtail play bike.
Best quote: "England's Planet X has the hardtail answer for the abuse dished out by today's new school freeriders and dirt jumpers. The Compo is as comfortable grinding up extended climbs as it is taking a big wheelie-drop."
MBA's Bottom line: Planet X's freeride hardtail is the perfect compromise between a tight, aggressive slalom cockpit and a roomy cross country layout. The Compo is for the rider that wants to rip up session spots yet still wants a bike they can be taken to the front in the next local group XC ride.
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