Need to Know

• Nukeproof introduce the third generation Mega
• Two wheel size options: 27.5in and 29in
• Alloy frame construction with new four-bar suspension design, where the 29er bike has 150mm travel and the 27.5 bike is 160mm
• The Mega 275s are available in four models; prices start at £1,999.99 for the Race and top out at £3,799 for the Pro. There’s no Race version of the Mega 290
• Regardless of wheel size, Nukeproof offers four frame sizes and isn’t pushing taller riders towards the 29er.
• Frame only option are available for £1,349.99

Launched in 2011, the Nukeproof Mega was born out of the desire to build an all mountain bike that could tame the race it’s named after. More recently it morphed into an equally capable 27.5in version of its former self; accomplished, dependable and, dare we say it, a touch heavy.

For the latest versions of the Mega, Nukeproof was keen to keep the stellar ride quality and reliability while reducing the frame weight. So it was back to the drawing board where the goal was to reduce the weight of every single frame component by a minimum of 10 per cent.

Switching to alloy pivot hardware also helped. The end result is that the 2016 Mega frame tips the scales a full pound lighter than its predecessor to give a frame weight of 2.8kg without a shock.

How many bikes are in the new Mega lineup?

The top of the range team comes in classic Nukeproof black and yellow (Philpott)

There are seven models in total, split between four 27.5in bikes and three 29ers. To keep things simple the pricing on the three top-tier bikes is identical, it’s only the entry-level Mega 275 Race at £1999.99 that isn’t mirrored in 29in. Prices for the Team, Pro and Comp are £3,799, £3,199.99 and £2,599 respectively.

A comparison of the new frame (grey) and the old one (purple)

All of the bikes use the same aluminium frame. And while all models come with SRAM 1×11 drivetrains, the frames still have the facility to run a front mech. Interestingly, Nukeproof hasn’t gone done the Boost route and has stuck with standard 142x12mm rear dropouts and 100x15mm forks instead.

Did you say there’s a 29er version?

The Nukeproof Mega is now available as a 29er for the first time (Philpott)

There sure is. And Nuke proof has tried to keep it as close to the 27.5in bike in terms of travel and attitude. Unlike some other brands, Nukeproof has not gone done the size specific wheel route. Instead, it’s offering the 27.5in bikes and the 29er in four frame sizes from small to XL and riders can choose which ever one they want.

How much travel do both options have?

One of the new 29er Megas on Italian soil (Philpott)

The 27.5in Mega has 160mm travel front and rear while the 29in version has 10mm less. In addition to revamping the overall look of the bikes, Nukeproof has also tweaked the suspension design. So instead of using a single pivot with a linkage-actuated shock, the new Mega gets a four bar design, with a chain stay pivot and counter rotating upper link.

The Race model comes in 27.5 only (Philpott)

It’s a similar layout to that used by Lapierre and Rocky Mountain, albeit with Nukeproof’s own distinct twist. The shock mount has also been moved onto the down tube, allowing for a substantially lighter top tube and less progression in the suspension.

Has the geometry changed much?

The stealthy Mega comp (Philpott)

No. The 27.5in Mega was already a fine tuned race machine so it’s hardly surprising that the latest version is very similar. There are some subtle changes, though. The front end is slightly longer, while the seat tubes have been made shorter to better work with 150mm dropper seat posts. What you can’t tell from the geometry chart is that the new frame is also 1lb lighter.

The Geometry chart for the 650b (left) and the 29er (right)

When will the new Mega be available?

You can get your hands on this Mega Pro before Christmas (Philpott)

The good news is that you won’t have to wait until next year to throw a leg over one. The first batch of Megas are due to arrive mid November and there are already plans for demo days so be sure to check for updates at nukeproof.com.

Check out the magazine for a full shakedown (Philpott)

Bike test editor Muldoon has also been out in Dolceaqua, Italy riding the new bikes so you can read all about his first ride impressions in the Jan 2016 issue of MBR.