Cell Bikes have just announced its latest home-designed bike – the Awaba. Named after the popular flowing trails just outside of Newcastle, New South Wales, these factory-direct 29er hardtails are full of features we haven't seen at these prices before.
Update: click here for our full review of the Awaba 1.0
Sharing similar geometry to some of the best riding bikes on the market, the Awaba looks to further raise the ride quality we loved on the recently reviewed Cell Stromlo 2.0.
Available in two models – the 1.0 and the 2.0, at $1199 and $1699 respectively. Both share the same frame, highlights include triple-butted aluminium, tapered headtube, press-fit bottom bracket and a 142 x 12mm rear thru-axle.
The Awaba 1.0 features a RockShox Recon Air fork with thru-axle, Shimano SLX and Deore 30-speed gearing and basic Shimano hydraulic brakes. We weighed our medium test sample at 13.1kg including its plastic platform pedals.
The higher-end Awaba 2.0 features a Reba Air suspension fork with thru-axle and tapered steerer, Shimano XT 20-speed transmission and Shimano SLX hydraulic brakes. Further details include tubeless-ready rims on sealed bearing hubs and large volume Continental tyres. Claimed weight is 12.1kg with included Shimano SPD pedals.
The Awaba 2.0 makes a strong argument for factory-direct pricing
We’ll be testing the Awaba 1.0 over the coming few weeks and see if this Australian designed, direct-buy bike is worthy to hold the name of such a popular trail network.
For a look at the new Awaba in action, see the video of Cell's head designer - Dave Musgrove - tackle the trails of Awaba at a recent endurance race.
Cell awaba