Whyte Bikes Full Brand Overview

As many riders know, the United Kingdom is the world leader in mountain bicycle designs. It is the rich history of excellent engineering heritage that makes them the top name for the practical and timeless design of mountain bikes. Among various such bike manufacturers, Whyte is a relatively famous name with a slightly longer history.

With the slogan “performance by design”, Whyte bikes have become very popular not only in the United Kingdom but also in many other parts of the world. In this review, let’s explore its history, technology, performance, popular bike models, and many other things.

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Overview of Whyte Bike Company

History of Whyte Bike Company

Whyte started their business in 1999 with the motto “performance by design”, which is also one of the core things of the United Kingdom bike designing. The company’s core Research and Development team is located in Cotswolds, the United Kingdom.

In order to create the best bikes possible, they design, create, and test their bikes on the same trails and roads that riders all take in the United Kingdom, and especially are under the same conditions, or usually worse.

The engineering team at Whyte knows what it is like to get cold and wet while riding in extreme weather and trying to rush behind the saddle with frozen fingers. That is also the main reason why you will see that their bicycles feature bigger than any other model out there.

Besides, you will notice that all Whyte mountain bikes are equipped with Crud-Catcher mounts. And it is also another reason why Whyte decides to have a special approach to geometry. They create bikes to inspire riders to ride with confidence no matter the conditions and types of terrain.

It is 22 years since the first time Whyte started their business with only one bike. However, that one bike has delivered revolutionary innovation than most available manufacturers’ entire product lines. The company actually made a huge impact. And the biggest thing about Whyte is that you can completely create something astonishing if you work freely with the best bike designers.

It really kicked off a perfect streak, stronger than ever, with the T-130 RS winning the undisputed Trail Bike of the Year award in 2016. In addition, the T-130C, 900 series, and T-129 bikes have earned an ideal score from Mountain Bike media during the last few years.

Until now, you will not see any sign of losing quality in Whyte bikes. Moreover, lots of Whyte bicycles continue to receive stellar reviews from some of the biggest bike riding organizations in the country.

Where Are Whyte Bikes Made?

Whyte is a British bike designer that was founded in 1999. Their bikes are produced in Taiwan, then delivered and distributed to stores in the United Kingdom and other countries around the world.

The Technologies of Whyte Bikes

Whyte is also relatively famous for their advanced technologies applied in various models, typically the mountain bike ranges. But the most innovative technology of the company should be the Quad 4 suspension. Its core value is reliability and performance.

When the company started designing the 650b and 29er wheel sizes, they quickly understood that they needed a different suspension system than anything they had manufactured before.

With the design and development concentrated on the special UK trail-riding environment, the weatherproof reliability – a genetic trait of the Quad-Link system – is the key thing. And there should be no complaint in frame geometry.

And finally, the Whyte team realized that full-suspension systems, wider wheels, the bike frame’s architectural layout, and geometry, and the suspension dynamics should be redesigned to ensure the integration. And every small change will have a stimulating effect elsewhere in the chain.

The Whyte team tried to maintain the compactness and stiffness of the bike’s rear with the similar dynamic ride of a 26-inch bicycle. This design helps minimize the gap between the bottom bracket centers and the rear wheel.

Eventually, the cutting-edge Quad 4 suspension technology was born after much effort by the Whyte team, and it really was a game-changer. Mountain Biking Australia even claimed that this technology had become the leader in the new generation of progressive range defining 29er full-suspension mountain bikes.

Performance of Whyte Bikes

Whyte Bikes is a famous bike brand in the United Kingdom with several models winning awards. All of their bikes are typically made with the concentration of performance and design. As a result, you will have a chance to get a bike with the best handling and great aesthetics.

As many cycling lovers and riders know, Whyte has been making a name for itself in the off-road range. However, the brand also manufactures other categories, including hybrid, gravel, and road bikes. And of course, these models are also focused on capability and appearance, as the brand’s motto.

According to Whyte, they don’t create ordinary bikes; instead, they produce extraordinary bicycles. And the proof is that the company’s the United States extended range of 2018 Performance Hardtails 2018 brings their “perfect” trail hardtail performance to many cyclists than ever. You also have different choices of 17.5-inch or 29-inch wheels and aluminum or carbon frames, depending on your preferences.

Since the Whyte hardtail mountain bikes kept popping up in the MBR hardtail team tests, it is clear that your time was well spent. Whyte also adds some changes to component standards based on the way their team ride and test bikes. In the end, the company offers the best performance bikes possible with great looks.

Whyte Bike Categories

If you are a cycling enthusiast, you should know that Whyte is very famous for their off-road bike range, for not only adults but also younger riders. Moreover, the company offers some other bikes in various categories, including road/gravel bikes and electric bikes. Now, let’s have a look at the bike ranges that Whyte has to offer:

Full-Suspension Mountain Bikes
Hardtail Mountain Bikes
Road/Gravel Bikes
Youth Mountain Bikes
Electric Mountain Bikes
Electric Road Bikes

Whyte Bike Price Range

Since Whyte is aiming at high-end models with excellent performance and refined finish, their bikes will be a little bit expensive. But they are really worth every penny. Below is the price range of all Whyte bike categories for your reference.

Full-Suspension Mountain Bikes: $3,406 – $9,385
Hardtail Mountain Bikes: $903 – $3,406
Road/Gravel Bikes: $869 – $2,850
Youth Mountain Bikes: $694 – $1,389
Electric Mountain Bikes: $7,646 – $10,081
Electric Road Bikes: $3,267 – $3,545

Are Whyte Bikes Any Good?

The Whyte has really matured late, with its award-winning bikes and constantly scoring high across its huge range. Their bikes are best well-known for their unique riding shape and characteristics, premium components and materials, and fine details that make them a great choice for any rider. In general, Whyte bikes deliver ultimate performance in a good-looking design.

Whyte Vs. Specialized

Whyte Bike Review

Whyte has been keeping their slogan “performance by design” since its inception in 1999. In addition, the company has a dedicated team that design, test, and ride their models in the same trails that other riders also ride, even on worse road conditions.

Maybe you will notice that all Whyte bicycles are designed with a larger level than any other models on the market. This is because the brand knows how it feels when riding in cold and wet conditions.

Another outstanding feature of Whyte bikes is the unique approach to geometry design. The company wants to manufacture a kind of geometry that inspires the rider to conquer any trail with confidence. You will also see that every mountain bike is equipped with Crud-Catcher mounts.

Even if you have never cycled here, you might find it familiar with the terrains, their bike variety, riding quality, and the ultimate comfort at the same time.

As many of you know, the 900 series is considered Whyte’s culmination of 17 years of creation and development. And when you track the history of the range, you will see how much Whyte and their mountain bike design have changed, of course, in a better way.

Most interestingly, Whyte has great relationships with different component suppliers and has access to pre-released products, bringing the vision and ideas for designing new innovative models.

Specialized Bike Review

Specialized offers a really large range of bikes in all disciplines, from aero road bikes to full-suspension mountain bikes, electric bikes, kid bikes, and pretty much everything in between. This is considered the same feature between Specialized and Whyte because both brands provide the market with various options of great bikes.

One of the greatest things about Specialized bikes is that their road bicycle range is very popular among both beginning and pro cyclists. Moreover, Specialized is one of the largest bicycle companies in the bike riding world. One of the reasons making their bikes are highly sought after by many riders in the world is the cutting-edge technologies integrated into their models.

Another unique feature that you can find on most Specialized road bikes is the perfect combination between performance, ultimate comfort, and leading technician solutions. Thus, it could be seen that the brand has managed to offer top-quality bicycles that can compete with some of the best high-end bikes in the industry. This is also a reason for taking Specialized to the next level, becoming one of the leading bike brands in the US.

In fact, several engineering teams have rated five stars for some Specialized road bikes. Not only road bikes, Specialized aero road bikes, and gravel bikes are also highly appreciated in the world of cycling.

On the whole, both Specialized and Whyte offer some of the best bikes in the industry. Specialized provides the market with various models with different styles for cyclists of all ages and preferences, while Whyte bikes have strengths in performance and eye-catching design.

Whyte Mountain Bikes

Full-suspension MTB Bikes

G-180 S V1

The brand-new G-180 frame is typically constructed using the award-winning G-170 as standard. As a result, it offers excellent enhancements on every side. In particular, a new set of tubes provides additional torsional stiffness, and optimized system suspension dynamics offer a better small impact response.

This model also provides the rider with a better capability thanks to the combination of a large 190mm of front suspension travel and a 27.5 frame. No matter what trail you take the G-180 S V1 on, from a local downhill trail to the toughest Alpine adventures, it can do it all.

In addition, both wheel sizes are equipped with a 29er fork. So, if you want to style your bike, simply change the 29er front wheels and swap out the lower headset cups.

T-160 S V1

It is true that the T-160 model takes the unsurpassed speed and excellent balance handling from the standard S-150 29er and becomes the 11th model. It is typically designed for progressive trail cyclists.

The T-160 S V1 model is the great blend between a brand-new alloy frame, 150mm of ultra-tuned rear suspension travel, and Whyte’s proven OTO geometry. It will promise to extend all-mountain efficiencies with incredible speed, ultimate control, and great balance on the toughest and technical trails.

Besides, the combination of RockShox suspension and Shimano 4-piston brakes allows you to better control your bike, no matter the type of terrain.

T-140 S V1

Wherever you ride, the new T-140 S V1 full-suspension mountain bike will deliver maximum fun. A versatile all-in-one with great potential for success, it combines incredible climbing capability with great efficiency for descents. In addition, the 140mm suspension travel will make you feel more comfortable all day long.

The T-140 comes with Whyte’s proven OTO geometry and a shorter 37mm offset suspension fork. More importantly, you will take advantage of the 140mm travel fork thanks to the added front-end grip. This, as a result, helps you unleash the full potential of the chassis, 2.6-inch tires, and more neutral handling.

You will also get the benefits of an improved chain ring size without compromising lower gear because of the integrated Eagle groupset and the large 480% gear range.

S-120 S V1

The Whyte S-120 S V1 full-suspension MTB bike brings to the lineup a completely new alloy frame. Besides, when combined with the all-new SILuxe rear shock and brand-new RockShox SID 35, it will make for the perfect modern short travel trail bicycle, both climbing and descending at different speeds.

It is true that this model offers more than you can expect from the 120mm bike. The S-120 offers great suspension and perfect handling on technical trails, whether you are pedaling up hills, charging the descents, or shredding the trail.

With the short 44mm offset suspension fork and great geometry, the S-120 delivers great stiffness yet is still lightweight. As a result, you will always feel confident no matter what the trail throws at you.

Hardtail MTB Bikes

Trail Enduro 900 Series

If you are a skilled rider, you will know that it is not really necessary to get a rear shock to hit the toughest trails. All you need is a Whyte Trail Enduro 900 Series bike.

As you all know, Whyte has always been praised as one of the greatest Trail hardtail manufacturers ever. Hence, the company has boosted its capability right in the range with its newest generation short offset shape. This latest, innovative geometry allows you to speed up your climbs, easily control any descent and corner like never before with the pure product lines of the Whyte initial SCR hardtail bike frame.

What’s more, Whyte even claims that the Trail Enduro 905 is the best 905 model it has ever designed. It is also the best hardtail that you have ridden and really deserves a perfect 10 rating. In addition, lots of pro riders find the Why 905 reformulate the limits of hardtail performance in general production.

Trail 29er

Whether you are a big racer or simply prefer greater distances and faster speeds, you will absolutely love this Whyte Trail 29er. Nothing can compare to its large 29er wheels, which can easily tackle long climbs and tough trails.

What sets the Whyte 529 and 629 models apart from the rest is that the company has paired them with its prize-winning Trail Geometry and an excellent thru-axle Boost frame. Therefore, you can make the most of that extra speed and capability even on the most technical and toughest trails.

Besides, these bikes are equipped with single specific chainring frames and broader, shorter chainstays. This construction makes handling more easily and dynamic, and consecutive shifting also becomes more simple. You can also benefit a lot from the improved 120mm travel thru-axle forks. They deliver innovative enhancements in terms of performance, which were pioneered in the various award-winning Whyte S-150 and also the trail 29er hardtails.

Those are all improvements in 2021. The 529 model is equipped with Shimano’s new 11-speed Deore drivetrain, a giant 11-51 cassette, and a dropper seat post. Besides, the 629 features a new drivetrain, fork, and an adjustable dropper post for a more comfortable, perfect fit. Whyte also launched the new 429 model, a new 29er Sports Hardtail Mountain Bike, presenting advantages of Whyte 29er hardtails to a wider customer.

So, whether you are into bike racing, making most of your riding skills to hunt thrills, or going far into new hills, you will have a huge advantage when thinking about Whyte hardtail mountain bikes in general and the Trail 29er models in particular.

Trail 800 Series

The hallmarks of authentic Whyte trail bikes and a plenty of features initially developed for the brand’s premium mountain climbing program mean that every model in the Trail 800 Series can perform across the previous boundaries of its cost.

In addition, Whyte further developed these bicycles by applying some of the technologies already used in their flagship models. Stems and bars are integrated with only 780mm, and all other bikes have an extended stem of 40mm on all their sizes. Besides, the rims are upgraded, so the entire lineup now uses the WTB’s new ST i25 TCS 2.0.

Both 805 and 806 models are equipped with Tubeless-ready wheels, while 801 and 802 bikes feature tubeless-compatible rims. This allows cyclists to upgrade to experience real performance if needed easily. The company also improved 801 and 802’s forks by using RockShox’s Recon RL fork, which is also applied on the 805 model but with a 15mm through axle.

Not only do these forks have excellent performance, but they also feature Fast Black stanchions that give these bikes a more modern look.

What’s more, all the newest generations of the Trail 800 Series are integrated with wide-range 11-46 cassettes. This additional range offers advanced technology that can only be seen on bicycles, which were expensive 4 times in 2 years ago. These wide-range cassettes are combined with Shimano Deore 10-speed shifting for the best performance possible.

Another great thing about the Trail 800 series bicycles is that they are compatible with the easy-to-mount Whyte dropper seat posts, which are available in 125mm, 150mm, and 170mm lengths.

Sport Trail 600 Series

As you might know, every Whyte mountain bike provides the rider with incredible confidence and the ultimate control. And these are also their MTB bikes’ hallmarks. The company has developed its Sport Trail 600 series by improving the new 120mm travel frame and the newest generation Whyte geometry.

These incredible, United Kingdom-designed bicycles pack a true Trail punch and provide the perfect showcase of Whyte’s performance benefits.

You will experience a really comfortable and lively feeling when riding the 605 model. It is not only relaxed and nimble but also allows the rider to go through turns and corners with ease. What’s more, this 605 hardtail can beat most of its competitors when it comes to on-trail performance thanks to its updated sporty frame and carefully chosen components.

Youth MTB Bikes

20-inch Junior

The Whyte 20-inch Junior mountain bike delivers the perfect combination between performance and lightweight design.

Whyte is always proud of the multi-butted, lightweight frame of the 20-inch Junior model. For example, the 203 bike is a perfect blend between high air-volume 20-inch tires and a light custom offset hard-alloy suspension fork. This combination offers increased stability and control for beginning cyclists. In addition, strong hydraulic brakes with 1400mm discs allow the rider to stop even on the smallest trails easily.

This bike is perfect for junior cyclists from 110cm to 125cm tall.

24-inch Youth Hardtail

In this 24-inch youth hardtail range, there is only one model, the 303. It is typically designed to help younger riders easily control and balance their bikes on tame trails. The 303 is an excellent model of the trail-taming features of Whyte geometry and light frame and a suspension fork and specially built for 24-inch wheels. Any young cyclists from 120cm to 140cm tall will be best suited with this bike.

26-inch Youth Hardtail

When it comes to youth bikes, it seems that Whyte has downsized everything except for the performance. Therefore, you can get your children started with a Whyte youth hardtail mountain bike.

In fact, it could be said that Whyte Junior and Youth bicycles have established the rules for mountain bike performance and provide kids with a great gift of an excellent bicycle at a more reasonable price.

The great Whyte 403 hardtail brings a really “grown-up” ride for kids while delivering lots of confidence, trust, and most of all, a joy to the most crucial mini shredder in children’s lives. They are great for young cyclists between 135cm and 152cm tall.

Whyte Road/Gravel Bikes

Gravel/Adventure

It is the versatility that defines the Whyte GX bicycles. You can experience that flexibility on different terrains, from on-road to off-road or both trails. The company’s especially fast, efficient, and capable Adventure bikes create a norm for all-rounders, every ride, and all day long.

What makes Whyte adventures/gravel bikes apart from other rivals is the combination of its advanced geometry and innovative SCR technology. The front center of gravity has been increased, and the rear stays have also been shortened. This new design enhances control and stability while riding off-road.

You will still feel the familiar riding position with the shorter stem and longer top tube. In addition, the large 500mm bar makes you feel like you are riding a modern cross-country bicycle instead of a conventional road/CX bike.

The SRAM full, powerful hydraulic brakes not only offer effective stopping but also deliver a great position for the rider. And with just one finger brake, you don’t have to use the gearshift buttons to steer or keep control of the bike.

Another benefit of this great hood position is that the cyclist’s weight load can be moved backward to reduce front wheel weight. This, as a result, gives the rear wheel enough weight for the rear brake to get some force. Needless to say, the drop bars are not superfluous. They keep the rider in a great riding position when cycling in high winds during a winter training trip.

In fact, a lot of mountain biking riders feel immediately at home on these bicycles because their seating or riding position is the same as an old mountain bike. However, they offer better rear brakes and modern geometry.

Fast Urban / Commuter

Whyte produces fast commuter bikes to cater to everyone, from the everyday commuters to the weekend explorers or anyone in between. This range is divided into 2 different groups: 1 x drivetrain and 2 x 10 speed models.

The first models come in a good-looking and simple appearance. They are also very sturdy, durable. Besides, the integrated fenders make them a super-reliable, everyday city bicycle.

On the other hand, the second models look more complicated with the refined flat bar. These road bikes will absolutely take you miles with the ultimate control and optimized comfort.

All of these models are improved with large 21mm lower-profile Tubeless Ready rims to make the most of the 700 x 32c tires. Besides, the brake hoses are routed inside the bike frame and fork.

There are two models in this bike range, including the Victoria and Portobello. Both these models are both equipped with the WTB Horizon 650b x 47c tires used on the Whyte Glencoe. They will provide the rider with supreme control, speed, and comfort on whatever the city roads can throw at you.

All-Terrain / Leisure

If you are looking for a lightweight, fun, and lively bike to enjoy every ride, then the Whyte C7 models are just what you need. They are made from lightweight alloy frames and good-quality components, creating a permanent wind flow behind your back. At the same time, the low-pressure, high-volume tires will follow whatever path you decide to take in your ride.

Whether you are cycling for fresh air, freedom, fitness, or simply for fun figuring out what is over there, these Whyte all-terrain/leisure bikes are great options with a pure design, natural handling, and the confidence and speed you need. They are really practical and simple to ride. You will definitely have lots of fun on any city street.

Whyte E-Bikes

E-Mountain Bikes

Whyte electric mountain bikes deliver incredible performance with reliability that can handle the harsh British weather conditions. These bikes are constructed out of the unobstructed, award-winning Whyte geometry with the great combination of the super-low center of gravity. This, as a result, offers superb control, handling, and balance.

There are no major cuts in the downtube to be suitable for the battery mounting (it loads through a sliding gate at the end). This means that it offers maximum structural wholeness, torsional rigidity, and the United Kingdom’s weather-resistant build. In addition, Whyte electric MTB bikes ensure quality engineering and outstanding backup capabilities thanks to the perfect Bosch Electronic eSystem.

E-Road Bikes

All-Terrain / Leisure

With Whyte all-terrain/leisure electric road bikes, you now can enjoy everything about bike riding and the great adventures outdoors, all with much less effort. These bikes are integrated with smart power assistance, which is also easy to adjust right in your hand reach. Simply choose the level of effort you want to put in your bike and let the excellent Shimano STEPS motor system do the rest.

The newest Coniston electric model is equipped with Shimano’s easy-to-use, all-new, and ultra-durable E500 system – the lightest ever. More impressively, the bike can effectively produce 40Nm of torque for more intelligent, smoother pedaling support thanks to the exceptionally low motor weight of 2.5 kg.

Even in the eco mode, the bike can reach up to 93 miles (150 km) range. So, you can enjoy long-day trips with no worry of running out of battery. From country lanes to country parks and more, you can rest assured that you will always feel relaxed, comfortable, and in control.

Fast Urban / Commuter

The wide range of Whyte electric road bikes allows you to enjoy the freedom of unlimited riding and special design qualities.

These electric commuter/fast urban road bikes are equipped with the newest Shimano STEPS motor and groundbreaking battery technology. They are all adjustable, providing better power assistance to help you reach the range of over 125km (75 mikes) effortlessly.

Both the urban Clifton and Highgate bikes or all-terrain Coniston models are great. No matter what model you pick, the uniquely confident handling capability and strong disc brakes on all bicycles allow you to control your speed on different terrains, including a postal trail, a twisty downhill road, or a cross-city commute to work.

Conclusion

It is true that every Whyte bike has gone through hone to perfection on some of the toughest trails. However, the brand also has some of the best models that won awards and constantly get high scores across a wide range. There are different things that make Whyte bikes so popular as today, including their unique geometry, well-chosen components and parts, premium materials, good-quality details, and special ride character.