Stinner Enters the Full-Suspension World with the New Romero

Stinner has officially entered the full-suspension mountain bike market with the launch of the Romero, unveiled at the Sea Otter event. This new model marks a significant step for the small-batch frame builder, who has traditionally focused on hardtail designs. The Romero features a unique take on the 3VO suspension platform, retaining the original pivot locations but incorporating a completely redesigned rear end that is distinctively Stinner’s own. The frame blends a Velospec air-hardened steel front triangle with a 6061 aluminium rear triangle, combining the compliance of steel with the responsiveness of aluminium to create a distinctive ride quality. The Romero is offered in two main variants: Medium Travel (MT) and Long Travel (LT), with a short travel version also planned. Both versions share the same frame but differ primarily in the height of the lower shock mount and suspension travel options. The MT model provides 130mm or 140mm rear travel paired with a 150mm fork, targeting the trail bike segment, while the LT version offers 150mm or 160mm rear travel with a 170mm fork, positioning it firmly in the enduro category. Stinner’s attention to geometry is notable, with a steep seat tube angle of around 78°-79° across all sizes, a moderate head angle, and a broad size range that includes seven frame sizes for the MT and five for the LT. Stinner’s in-house manufacturing extends to the aluminium rear triangle, allowing precise control over stiffness and performance characteristics. The frame also features 3D-printed stainless steel components around the seat tube area to accommodate the suspension design. The 3VO platform is tuned for efficient pedalling with approximately 105% anti-squat and near 100% anti-rise at sag, promising stable climbing and descending capabilities. Additionally, the Romero offers size-specific chainstay lengths and wheel size options, including MX and full 29-inch configurations, catering to a wide variety of rider preferences and disciplines. Two build packages are available for the Romero, both utilising SRAM Eagle drivetrains but differing in componentry and touchpoints. The SRAM Eagle 90 build features Race Face alloy bars and Maven Base brakes, while the higher-end SRAM XO Transmission build upgrades to carbon Race Face bars, Maven Silver brakes, and a Fox Transfer dropper post. Suspension choices include Marzocchi Bomber, Fox Factory, and RockShox options, with wheelsets offered in either alloy DT Swiss M1900 or carbon Stoic variants. This level of customisation reflects Stinner’s boutique approach, allowing riders to tailor the bike to their specific needs. The introduction of the Romero signals Stinner’s commitment to expanding its presence in the full-suspension market while maintaining its ethos of craftsmanship and innovation. By combining advanced materials, bespoke suspension design, and a broad spectrum of options, Stinner aims to compete with larger brands while appealing to riders seeking something unique and finely tuned. The Romero’s launch at