Bike Check | Josh Lowe’s Custom Red Bull Hardline TUES
2022/10/04
As the fierce rivalry of the World Cup comes to a close and the World Champion is crowned, you could forgive yourself for thinking the racing action is all over for another year. But, for many athletes, there is only one thing on their mind at the end of the season – Red Bull Hardline. To celebrate the event, our design team got to work, pulling out all the stops to dream up Josh Lowe’s custom Red Bull Hardline TUES.
Notorious for its chaotic blend of merciless tech and stratospheric sends, Hardline is the ultimate challenge. In a nod to Rampage, its invite-only format sees an iconic squad of racers and freeriders called up to test their mettle on the unique track. For 2022, the builders had been busy, upping the ante to an all-new level of carnage.
This year saw YT Family phenom Josh Lowe step back up to the plate, looking to make an impression off the back of his 2021 Hardline Rider of the Week award. What better way to celebrate his return to the event than with a custom, one-of-a-kind YT TUES frame?
Rolling Art – Josh Lowe’s Custom Hardline TUES
“The frame design draws inspiration from the tough and raw nature of Hardline, so the rusted, worn-out rat look was a perfect match. It’s real rust on the frame, for which our painter used a special paint and technique. This method is the only way to make the effect and texture of the surface look real.”
Dennis Dastig, YT Senior Graphic Designer
Josh’s Hardline-Ready TUES Spec:
Frame: YT Tues CF 29”
Shock: Fox Factory DHX2 (425lb Spring)
Fork: Fox Factory 40
Wheels: Reverse Wheels
Tyres: Maxxis DHR (24psi / 28psi)
Drivetrain: SRAM X0, 7-speed
Pedals: Crankbrothers Mallet DH Titanium
Brakes: SRAM Code RSC
Cockpit: Reverse bars/grips
“I actually couldn’t believe it to be honest. When the team pulled it out of the van, I thought it was for somebody else, and for it to look that good too it was an absolute dream come true. I can’t wait to send it here at Hardline”
Josh Lowe
Unpredictable as always, the race saw riders put it all on the line, battling the treacherous course to claim unrivalled bragging rights and their place on the podium. After crushing every feature, Josh took a gnarly spill in qualifying, injuring his shoulder and taking himself out of contention for the final. Already on the mend, we can’t wait to see him back on two wheels and sending it for the crowd!
As the dust settles on this year’s edition of Hardline, keep your eyes peeled for more YT action in 2023. Hungry for more? You can follow Josh on Instagram or check out Pinkbike’s bike check article.
