Alchemy Arktos

98/100
BikeRide Score
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Users (9 ratings)
100
Experts (7 reviews)
89
Alchemy Arktos
Where to buy
$3,799.00 Alchemy Bikes See it $4,199.94 Jenson USA See it
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Facts

Gender
Men, Women
Type
Enduro, Mountain, Trail, Cross Country, Non-Electric
Release Year
2021
Brand
Alchemy
Wheel Size
27.5”, 29”
Number of Gears
12 (1x12)
Gearing Type
External Derailleur
Weight
30.4, 31.4, 33.0 lb
Suspension
Full
Brake Type
Disc: Hydraulic
Frame Material
Carbon Fiber

Summary of Reviews

We have read all expert and user reviews on the Alchemy Arktos. In summary, this is what cyclists think.

15 reasons to buy

  • The Arktos is commended for its versatility; performing well on enduro trails, downhill runs, and longer/cross-country runs.
  • Alchemy's Arktos is available in 120, 135 and 150mm rear-shock travel configurations. Each is available in 3 builds; SRAM GX, Shimano XT or SRAM X01.
  • The Arktos is available with two 29" wheels or in a mullet (MX) setup, with a front 29" and rear 27.5" wheel.
  • On the Arktos 150 MX build, a reviewer describes shifting on SRAM’s Eagle XO1 drivetrain as 'flawless'.
  • Amateurs and experts are impressed by the Arktos's performance as a climber. Its efficiency up hills is lauded.
  • Componentry is rarely faulted for the Arktos. Even at the lowest spec, reviewers say the SRAM GX build is trouble-free.
  • ‘Snappy’ is a term that comes up again and again, when riders described the Arktos's sharp responsiveness on technical descents and through turns.
  • Three sizes: M, L and XL, provide a suitable fit for riders of all sizes.
  • The customized SINE rear suspension is characterized as being easy to tune and rarely requiring adjustment.
  • Fox Transfer dropper seat-posts are appreciated for their smooth action.
  • The Arktos receives compliments for being stripped-back and uncluttered.
  • Maxxis Minion, Assegai or Dissector tires come as stock, delivering a grippy ride.
  • Internal cable routing keeps the Arktos's frame neat.
  • The Arktos's full-carbon frame is loved for its light weight.
  • The Arktos now features integrated chainstay protection, guarding the frame against chain-slap.

2 reasons not to buy

  • Some builds feature SRAM G2 R brakes. More than one reviewer is unimpressed by their stopping power.
  • The Arktos isn’t cheap. But as a performance machine, it is generally agreed by reviewers that you get value for what you pay for.

Bottom line

If compromise is not your thing, then the Alchemy Arktos is probably right up your alley. Componentry is rarely faulted by any reviewers and user videos serve as testimonials to the high-speed euphoria delivered by this bike. Testers are pleased with its performance on climbs and over longer backcountry rides. If you are after a precision-engineered and beautifully presented machine – you will most likely be delighted by the Arktos. Reviewers stress that the Arktos is great value for a high-quality rig, but even so, it is not aimed at riders on a tight budget.

Expert Reviews

89/100 based on 7 rated expert reviews
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80
Dawn Patrol MTB
Level 1 expert

Alchemy Arktos 135 Review

Level 1 expert

This was one of my favorite bikes we tested. It’s fun and capable on all sorts of trails but truly shines on straight-line chunky descents. For sheer adaptability and chunky fun, the Alchemy 135 is hard to beat.

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90
Vital MTB
Level 5 expert

2021 Alchemy Arktos 150 X01 29 Bike

Level 5 expert

The updated Arktos 150 will appeal to a far more diverse group of riders. It can serve as a long-travel trail bike. It can also be an enduro race bike for those who favor a sporty, precise ride.

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80
Vital MTB
Level 5 expert

2020 Alchemy Arktos 29 X01 Eagle Bike

Level 5 expert

Alchemy Bicycles is clearly a brand that goes above and beyond… The exclusive Sine Suspension System works extremely well in every situation. It is active enough for technical climbing, supportive and playful on modest terrain, and uses its travel efficiently when trails get faster and rougher.

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95
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This review has been given a score. Read more here
MTB MAG
Level 3 expert

[Tested] Alchemy Arktos 150 MX

Level 3 expert

The geometry, frame construction, craftsmanship and handling are all very much top notch. This bike truly excelled once it was up to speed. It rewards heavy-handed input from an assertive rider. Climbing: 10/10!

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91
?
This review has been given a score. Read more here
Beta
Level 2 expert

The Beta Tests: Alchemy Arktos 135

Level 2 expert

Today’s Arktos, which was reinvented in early 2021, offers a full range of ride experiences. The Arktos’s mixture of support and sensitivity is what every other do-it-all bike should be aiming for. Remarkable small-bump compliance, confidence-inspiring lateral stiffness. There was a nagging amount of bob while climbing.

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92
?
This review has been given a score. Read more here
The Loam Wolf
Level 4 expert

Alchemy Arktos 150 Review

Level 4 expert

The Arktos is amongst one of the most capable 150mm bikes I have been on to date. It’s amongst one of the more versatile offerings out there with multiple travel options and a mixed wheel option.

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90
?
This review has been given a score. Read more here
Singletracks
Level 5 expert

The Alchemy Arktos 120 Rides Like a Bigger Bike, Because It Can Be [Review]

Level 5 expert

The Alchemy Arktos 120 stands out thanks to its ability to chameleon between short-travel, trail, and all-mountain with a single frame. I was having a little too much fun launching the bike into the air over every root and grade reversal in sight.

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Crankjoy
Level 2 expert

Review: Alchemy Arktos ST – The Enduro Trail Bike

Level 2 expert

The Arktos ST felt confident and in control hitting rougher lines as long as you didn’t let the rear slam into things too hard. I believe its aimed towards the trail rider who needs an efficient pedaling bike to get them deep into the backcountry.

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Mountain Flyer
Level 1 expert

Tested: Alchemy Arktos GX

Level 1 expert

The Arktos is incredibly stable and predictable at speed, often begging to be pushed harder. My only real gripe with this bike was this build’s less-than-impressive brakes. A boutique ride spec’d well above many other GX level builds.

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Vital MTB
Level 5 expert

Vital Test Sessions – Alchemy Arktos 120

Level 5 expert

The most capable descending bike in our Short Travel Test Sessions. The Arktos 120 is ideal for riders wanting a short travel weapon that will carry speed in every situation. The Arktos can haul ass uphill.

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Bermstyle
Level 1 expert

Review: Alchemy Arktos 135 MX

Level 1 expert

The mix of wheel sizes felt good to me in terms of the handling and makes the bike fun in the air. The lack of stopping power really puts a damper on descending with this bike and holds it back.

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NSMB
Level 4 expert

Alchemy Arktos 29 – Reviewed

Level 4 expert

While it doesn’t outright win at anything it’s quite good at covering vast distances and vert over 8 hours, is definitely capable on bike park jumps, and will handle shuttle laps on the steeps.

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Whistler Mountain Bike
Level 1 expert

Alchemy Arktos 150mm

Level 1 expert

With close to 600km on the saddle, the Arktos 150 hasn’t let me down. From technical trails to climbs, I have been very pleased. It has been able to charge down all of the downhills closer in feel to my downhill bike than a 150mm travel bike.

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Teton Gravity Research
Level 2 expert

TGR Tested: The Alchemy Arktos 150 Is a Party on the Trails

Level 2 expert

Overall, the Arktos 150 and 135 are incredibly capable machines that cater towards riders with an active riding style. While the 150 might scream “enduro race bike,” I think it’s better suited for long backcountry adventures.

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terrain
Level 1 expert

Tested: Alchemy Arktos 29 150F/135R

Level 1 expert

I’ll always remember Mary Lou. We did everything together: long, slow miles; hard, fast downhills; laid-back, flowy fun. She was as versatile as they come. Just be sure to keep your mitts off Mary Lou. To me, she was almost perfect.

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User Ratings

100/100 based on 9 ratings
  • 5 star
    100%
  • 4 star
    0%
  • 3 star
    0%
  • 2 star
    0%
  • 1 star
    0%

Rankings

Compared to other bikes
#7 Best Mountain
Top 5%
#2 Best Enduro
Top 10%
#36 Best of All Bikes
Top 10%

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Bike Comparison

Alchemy Arktos in comparison to averages
Alchemy Arktos
98
Average All Bikes
86
Average Alchemy Bike
99
Average Mountain Bike
86

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