Judging by the frequent requests for a review of the Forbidden Druid on our YouTube comments section, this bike has captured the attention of a large number of riders. It turns out that all this interest is greatly merited, as the Vancouver Island-based company has engineered a high-end bike for hardcore riders, designed by a group of hardcore riders. 

Before my first ride on the Forbidden Druid V2, I intentionally avoided researching the specs and intended purpose to minimize any preconceptions I might have had about the bike. Based on feel, I made a rough estimate of how much travel the rear suspension had, but it turned out to be off by almost an inch. The rear travel felt more substantial than the actual 130 millimeters—a testament to the efficiency of the progressive rear-suspension curve.

The Druid V2 offers an in-your-face, forward seated position while climbing, which is something I wholly welcome on the steep climbs of my favorite hometown trails in Bellingham, Washington. The bike’s geometry places the rider in an optimal stance for tackling steep climbs without having to lean too far forward to maintain one’s balance. The size S3 has a 452-millimeter chainstay, helping to ensure that one’s weight remains forward and enhancing stability on climbs. Even on flatter terrain, this seated position is equally beneficial, helping the rider to maintain balance through corners.

As I loaded up the cranks with power, the rear suspension supported my 200 pounds of weight, delivering a substantial amount of anti-squat—another big win in my book. However, despite Forbidden’s dedication to lowering drivetrain drag, I could feel a slight but nagging power loss through the drivetrain with the extra pulley. Though many riders are happy to power through such drag to reap the plush ride quality of a high pivot, this was noticeable to me when really mashing on the pedals.

When descending, however, the high pivot really comes into its own. On some of the bumpiest trails on Galbraith Mountain, the high-pivot platform stays poised through the relentless roots and holes, providing a smooth and controlled ride. The frame feels solid and damped, soaking up vibration through consecutive hits. Despite the longish chainstay, the bike remains maneuverable, making it easy to handle through rough sections. And the suspension’s initial stroke is plush, absorbing trail chatter in the same manner that a 160-millimeter-travel bike might.

But the star of the show is the way the chain crept around the drivetrain in silence, creating a distinctly high-end feeling. When you can hear your tires punting over roots more loudly than the creaking and slapping of bike components, it really is a treat.

Further adding to the Druid V2’s smooth ride quality is the 150-millimeter RockShox Lyrik Ultimate fork, equipped with vibration-reducing ButterCups and the Charger 3.1 damper. The fork’s silent damping qualities enhanced the already quiet nature of the bike, making it a perfect pairing for the Druid V2. What’s more, the undersized 180-millimeter brake rotors delivered ample stopping power even under my 200 pounds of mass, thanks to the much-improved SRAM Code Ultimate Stealth brakes.

The Forbidden Druid V2 is designed for riders who prioritize a high-pivot suspension platform over pure pedaling efficiency. This trail bike is ideal for medium-terrain mountains requiring a bit less travel but still featuring many roots and square-edged hits.

Learn More: forbiddenbike.com/bikes/druid/