Cove STD Design and Build Specs

Design Aspects with Cove Bikes Designer Brian Kelly

1. What were the main design goals for the STD?

The main goals were to incorporate our dual link suspension platform into a more versatile all ‘round freeride bike. Something a little less race specific but still able to tackle the steeps and gnarl with speed and agility to pedal back up for another lap.

2. Tell me about the STD’s suspension system and what makes it unique.

The virtues are that with the shorter links, we are able to more accurately tune the desired ride characteristics vs single pivot bikes or conventional four bar systems.

They also allow the rear end to track the ground better, making it react to changes in terrain faster. Due to the pivot placement we can locate the brakes to virtually eliminate negative suspension feedback as well as optimize pedal efficiency. Basically, you can pedal through the roughest sections that would normally rob you of speed and control without skipping a beat.

3. The STD uses Easton RAD tubing, what makes these tubes special?

The RAD tubes are great in that they provide a huge area at the head tube for taking the heavy loads of long travel forks without the need for adding gussettes and more welding. The tapered, round to rectangular profile allows for more strength in the right places with simplicity where it’s needed without unnecessary weight or flexibility. They come in a variety of wall thickness and butt profiles which helps us choose the best tubes for the chosen frame design.

4. Tell me about the geometry of the frame and why you chose these particular angles and measurements.

The geometry is key on this frame. The fit is loose and relaxed. It hits the mark for aggressive freeride/ DH but without feeling sluggish and too laid back when pedaled slow and loaded on inclines. It retains our traditional “North Shore” geometry that has given our bikes their reputation. I wanted a bike that was a little more upright for seated pedaling and a bit quicker steering for the tighter, more technical trails. The STD has an un-interrupted seat tube, a super stiff 1.5” head tube and a 12mm x 150mm rear end, designed to let you shove it into corners and chutes. At speed the bike handles unreal. It provides maximum response from minimal rider input without becoming twitchy and unstable.

5. Is there anything else that you’d like to tell us about the STD?

This is one of my favorite bikes to ride. I’ve raced on it for 2 seasons and I can’t ask for anything more. It’s been my do all bike for the parks, race courses, or local trails since it was conceived. It can be built as a light freeride bike or a heavy DH rig without compromise.

The Build

std6

Frame – 2009 Cove STD size Medium
Fork – 2009 Marzocchi 66 RC3 with upgraded nickle plated stanchions
Rear Shock – Fox DHX 5.0 or Elka Stage 5
Rims – Sun MTX 33
Hubs – 2009 Shimano Saint
Spokes – DT Swiss Champion
Brakes – 2009 Shimano Saint
Rotors – Shimano XT centerlock 203mm front/180mm rear
Cranks – 2009 Shimano Saint 165mm arms
Chainguide – Gamut P20
Chain – Shimano HG-93
Cassette – Shimano SLX
Pedals – Shimano PD-M424 or Drive Technologies CNC
Handlebars – Shimano PRO FRS 20mm rise
Stem – Shimano PRO FRS 50mm reach
Grips – Shimano PRO lock-ons
Saddle – SDG Formula FX
Seatpost – SDG I-Beam
Build Weight – 40.7 pounds

This STD got the full Shimano Saint treatment, a fitting build for such a well designed and manufactured frame. The Elka Stage 5 brings the frame to life and enhances the already fantastic performance of this virtual pivot suspension design. The wheelset was custom built by the best wheel builder I know, Rob Carrel from Cyclewerks Bike Shop. They are a 36 spoke wheel using Saint hubs, Sun MTX33 rims and DT Swiss Champion spokes. I expect these wheels to last a very long time with the tough MTX33s and considering that the Saint hubs are easily rebuild-able. This is the second build that this Marzocchi 66 RC3 has been on and for good reason. It is stiff, incredibly plush and it has been very reliable. To say that I love this fork would be an understatement. The Saint cranks set the standard for the industry; they are light, super stiff, durable and the look amazing. The Gamut P20 is light, easy to set up and keeps the chain on. What more could you ask for in a chainguide? Shimano PRO and SDG controls round out this no-compromises build. I’ve been using the SDG Formula FX saddle on all of my bikes this season an it has held up nicely through the ton of abuse it’s seen. It is fairly comfortable for a lightweight competition saddle, enough so that I don’t hesitate to take it out on long XC type rides. The Shimano PRO bars, stem and grips are as nice as anything out there. The grips are now my current favorite because of their tacky, comfortable grip surface and the extremely secure lock-on clamps. This is a super fun bike with serious performance capabilities.