Ari Introduces the New 801 Dirt Jump and Pump Track Bike

Almost two months ago, we reported on a well-choreographed theft of a full semi-truck of Ari bikes. Among the hundreds of bikes stolen, most of which have since been recovered, was the unreleased 801 dirt jumper. Today, the all-new Ari 801 is finally officially being launched, reviving the brand’s dirt jump and pump track bike.

With a relatively complete lineup of non-electric and electric mountain bikes, a dirt jumper was one model that was missing. And given that Kyle Strait and Tyler McCaul joined the Ari team recently, it stands to reason that a dirt jump bike wouldn’t be too far behind. Named after the area code in Utah where Ari Bikes is based, the new 801 bears the same name as Ari’s first steel-framed dirt jumper. Now with an aluminum frame, options for 26-inch or 27.5-inch wheels, and three affordable complete builds, Ari calls the new 801: “Your cheat code to fun.”

Ari says, “The 801 is a bike built for dirt jumping, slalom racing, and pump tracks,” and is “the perfect bike to improve riding technique on whether an XC enthusiast or enduro racer.” Basically, it’s a bike made for progressing your skills and just having fun. That certainly sounds appealing to us. Let’s check out the details.

Two riding hitting some dirt jumps on the Ari 801 — The new 801 is made for dirt jumps, pump tracks, and slalom. (all photos/Ari Bikes)

Ari 801 Details

The new 801 frame is made from 6061-T6 aluminum alloy, which Ari claims provides high strength in a lightweight and robust package. In fact, the brand claims it has been tested to the “same impact standards as its Superior Peak DH bike ridden at Red Bull Rampage.” The frame comes in 26-inch or 27.5-inch versions, so riders can choose which wheel size best suits their riding style and preferences. Ari suggests 26-inch wheels for agility when dirt jumping and 27.5-inch wheels for versatility and stability for slalom and pump tracks.

Regardless of wheel size, the frames come in a single size. Ari claims the geometry provides “dialed handling for confidence and control.” Overall, the 26-inch frame is slightly smaller to match the wheel size and promote more nimble handling. The 27.5-inch frame is a tad slacker and longer with a 68-degree head tube angle, 440 mm reach, and 10 mm longer chainstays. Check out the geometry chart below to compare.

The 27.5-inch frames are also derailleur compatible, come with a derailleur hanger, and have external cable routing for a shifter cable. The 801 Pro 27.5” build even comes with a SRAM GX DH 7-speed drivetrain for those who appreciate having gears on their jump/pump/slalom bike. The 801 Elite 27.5” and 801 26” builds come with single-speed setups.

The tricksters among us will be happy to know that the frame has threaded gyro mounts on the head tube for the rear brake. This way, bar spinners and tail whippers have the option to install a rear brake gyro so they can whip and spin to their heart’s content.

A custom-built 801 with a rear brake gyro.

Transferable Warranty

Ari’s 801 frames are backed by a lifetime warranty to the original owner. Ari also includes a transferable warranty for the second owner. So, if you sell your 801 to another rider, the second owner can get a one-year frame warranty from the date of purchase. Of course, the transfer of ownership needs to be documented for the warranty to transfer, but Ari makes it easy to do through its website.

Ari 801: Builds and Pricing

The new 801 comes in two builds with 27.5-inch wheels and one with 26-inch wheels. Ari also sells the 801 as a frame only in your choice of wheel size, so you can build up your own custom play bike. The 801 frame comes in a raw aluminum finish or with a gloss purple paint job, both of which look pretty awesome.