Q - What size frame should I buy?
See the table below for a complete Esker Cycles model line-up size guide
NOTE: Many folks can fit more than a single frame size. If you find yourself at a height in which you can fit 2 different frame sizes, ask yourself what your riding style is like and where/how you intend to use the bike. A larger frame will feel more stable at high speeds, but not as maneuverable in tighter and more technical situations on the trail. Inversely, a smaller frame will be less stable at speeds, but allow you to pick up and place your wheels in technical sections of trail much easier.
Q - Didn’t Esker make a Lorax before?
We DID! Many of you know that the Lorax has been with us as a company for a long time…even prior to Esker as a brand. In the past, this bike has fit into the ‘Gravel Road’ category with a more traditional drop-bar geometry and use case. While the new Lorax will indeed boast drop-bars like the previous generations we’ve come to know and love, the similarities end there. We took a look at the Lorax and asked ourselves, “What would our ideal drop-bar bike look like?” and “Where do we intend to ride it?”. Those questions inspired visions of touring high alpine forest roads, back roads of the Northwoods, and jumping on secret strips of singletrack while we link together routes in our local communities.The Lorax finds its final form as a ‘Drop-Bar Mountain Bike’ built for touring, exploring, and whatever silly shenanigans you want to put it through. Scroll through the questions below for more information the Lorax.
Q - Can I use a front derailleur on the Lorax?
Technically, yes, we designed the Lorax to clear the space a front derailleur occupies and clearance for compact double cranks, but unfortunately there is no 'out-of-the-box' option that works with the Lorax's chainline and tire clearances. The Lorax is designed with 1X drivetrains as the priority and while there are a handful of 2X options that could technically work, they require deviations from their originally intended design (adapters, odd pull ratios, etc). If you would like to expiriment with those setups, feel free, but make sure you've got a lot of patience and know a great mechanic. Have fun!
Q - Can I build the Lorax with a Flatbar?
Sure thing! If your fit or intended use of the bike requires a very short reach and taller stack, a Flatbar Lorax could be an amazing option. We could even ship the Lorax with a standard post-mount dropout to make things easier for your build. Just shoot us an email at info@eskercycles.com and we’d be happy to work with you on it.
Q - How many water bottles will the Lorax carry?
SM = 1 bottle in the front triangle, 1 bottle under the downtube.
MD/LG/XL = 2 bottles in the front triangle, 1 bottle under the down tube.
Q - Can I put a rear rack on the Lorax?
Heck yeah! The Lorax has integrated rear rack mounts on the seatstay.
Q - Can I single-speed the Lorax?
You betcha! Our Portage Dropout System allows you to adjust the chainstay length by up to 14mm, allowing you to run a single speed setup reliably, quietly, and with ease.
Q - Can I run an internally geared hub on the Lorax?
Technically, yes, but we don't offer any support on figuring out which hubs and support parts may be needed in order to make this happen. Have fun!
Q - What is the ‘Bolt Setback’ of the top-tube mounts?
The Lorax uses a 124mm setback for the top-tube mounts. This allows for more room while using multiple cockpit bags (TT, Feedbags, etc), as well as helping to eliminate stem/steering interference. All of our bag manufacturing partners offer this setback option along with various mass-production options from other brands.
Q - How does the Portage Dropout System work?
The Portage Dropout System attaches to our hardtail frames and allows you to adjust chainstay length (for ride characteristics or tire width clearances) and chain tension (for single speed application).
Q - Do you do custom builds?
We do not. We offer a limited menu of upgrade options for all of our bikes, but we do not do custom builds.
If you'd like to have a custom Esker built up, please reach out to one of our Retail Partners and they'll work with you on getting you exactly what you want!
Q - What does your warranty look like?
Click here for warranty information
Q - Can I order one of your frames/bikes through a local bike shop?
Absolutely. That would be the best way to order one of our frames/bikes! Working with your local bike shop allows you to get great insight on which model is right for you, which size may work best for your intended use, and ensure that your bike gets built up and fit to your exact specifications. Jump on over to our Dealer Locator to see a full map of our retail partners and find the one closest to you.
Q - Can I demo a bike before I buy it?
We do our best to travel around throughout the year and often partner with regional mountain bike festivals or local retail partners to host demos. For the most up to date opportunities, check our Dealer Locator. You can also see a full map of our retail partners - reach out to them if you're nearby and ask them what they may have available for you to demo locally.
Q - I want to buy a frame bag before my bike/frame arrives to me, can you provide the frame bag dimensions?
We don't recommend buying a frame bag until you have your frame/bike on hand. That is absolute best way to ensure you get the right size and shape for your bike.
If you're looking to make a custom bag(s) for your Esker, we've partnered with some incredible custom frame bag makers that all have our frame dimensions and files on hand. Please reach out to one of them HERE.