The Calibre Bossnut has been known as a solid full-suspension mountain bike at an affordable price. The 2025 version keeps that reputation but brings some changes. It now has 29-inch wheels for most sizes, with only the smallest frame using 27.5-inch wheels. The suspension has 135mm of travel in the back and 140mm in the front. The geometry has been updated too, making it better for climbing while still handling rough trails well.
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Frame and Geometry
The frame is aluminum, which makes it strong but not the lightest. The head angle is slacker now, at 64.5 degrees, which helps with control when going downhill. The seat tube angle is steeper at 78 degrees, making climbing easier. The reach is longer than before, and the seat tube is shorter, allowing riders to pick a size that suits their preference. The chainstay length is 445mm, keeping the bike balanced between stability and agility.
These changes mean the bike should feel stable when going fast but still easy to handle in technical sections. The lower seat tube also allows for a longer dropper post, which is a plus for riders who like more control on descents.
Suspension and Components
The Bossnut 2025 comes with a RockShox Recon Silver RL fork with 140mm of travel. The rear shock is a RockShox Deluxe Select R. Both are simple to set up and do a good job absorbing bumps. While they are not high-end suspension components, they work well for a bike in this price range.
The drivetrain is Shimano CUES 10-speed with an 11-48T cassette. It is built for durability rather than high performance. It shifts smoothly and should last a long time, even with regular riding. The bike uses Shimano MT410 hydraulic brakes with 180mm rotors on both wheels. These brakes are reliable and provide enough stopping power for most trail conditions.
The wheels have 30mm internal width rims, which are tubeless-ready. They come with Shimano TC500 hubs, which are basic but functional. The tires are Maxxis Minion DHF 29×2.5 inches at the front and Maxxis Forekaster 29×2.4 inches at the rear. This combination gives good grip in various trail conditions while still rolling efficiently.
The bike includes an X-Fusion Manic dropper post. The amount of travel depends on the frame size—170mm for large and extra-large, 150mm for medium, and 125mm for small and extra-small. Having a dropper post at this price is a nice touch since it helps with control on descents.
Ride Performance
On the trail, the Bossnut 2025 feels stable and predictable. The updated geometry helps with confidence when going downhill, and the suspension keeps the ride smooth. The rear shock is tuned well, staying active over bumps but not sinking too much when pedaling.
Climbing is easier than before, thanks to the steeper seat angle. The drivetrain provides a wide enough range of gears to get up steep climbs. The bike does not feel overly heavy when pedaling uphill, though it is not the lightest in its category. The frame stiffness is decent, so power transfer feels good when pushing on the pedals.
The braking system is reliable, though some riders may want to upgrade to a larger front rotor for extra stopping power on steep trails. The stock tires provide good traction, especially the front Maxxis Minion DHF, which grips well in corners. The rear tire, the Maxxis Forekaster, rolls faster but might not be the best choice for very muddy conditions.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The Bossnut 2025 has a lot of good things going for it. The modern geometry makes it capable on both climbs and descents. The suspension is effective for the price, and the drivetrain is simple but durable. The inclusion of a dropper post is a nice feature, and the bike is tubeless-ready from the start.
However, there are some areas where upgrades could improve performance. The fork, while decent, could be replaced with a higher-end model for more adjustability and a smoother ride. The stock brakes work well, but upgrading to a larger front rotor or a more powerful set of brakes could help for more aggressive riding. The bike is not the lightest in its class, so riders looking for a super lightweight option might find it a bit heavy.
Price and Value
The Calibre Bossnut has always been about value, and the 2025 model continues that trend. The launch price was around £1700, but it has been seen on sale for as low as £999. At this lower price, it is one of the best full-suspension bikes available. It competes with bikes that cost much more but still holds its own in performance.
For riders who want a full-suspension bike without spending too much, this is a solid choice. The stock components are good enough for most riders, and any necessary upgrades can be done over time. It is a bike that can grow with a rider as their skills improve.
Possible Upgrades
While the Bossnut 2025 is great out of the box, some upgrades could make it even better. The fork is one of the first things that could be replaced for riders looking for more performance. A higher-end RockShox or Fox fork would offer more adjustments and better damping.
The brakes are decent, but more powerful ones would provide better control on steep trails. Upgrading to four-piston calipers or larger rotors would improve stopping power.
The drivetrain is durable, but some riders might prefer a wider range of gears or a lighter cassette. Swapping to a 12-speed system could provide a better climbing gear while keeping the shifting smooth.
Tires are another area where changes could be made depending on the terrain. The stock Maxxis setup works well, but some riders may prefer a different rear tire for better grip in wet conditions.
Who Is This Bike For?
The Bossnut 2025 is a good choice for riders who want an affordable full-suspension bike that can handle a variety of trails. It is suitable for beginners who want to get into mountain biking without spending too much. It is also a good option for more experienced riders who want a second bike that is reliable and fun.
It is not the lightest bike, so riders who prioritize climbing performance might look elsewhere. However, for general trail riding, it offers a great mix of stability, control, and fun.
Final Thoughts
The Calibre Bossnut 2025 continues the legacy of offering great performance at a reasonable price. The updated geometry makes it more capable on modern trails, and the components are reliable for everyday riding. While there are some areas where upgrades could make it even better, it is a solid choice for anyone looking for a well-rounded trail bike without a high price tag.
For riders who want an easy-to-ride, full-suspension bike that performs well without breaking the bank, the Bossnut 2025 is a great option. It handles a variety of terrain well, offers modern geometry, and comes with everything needed to get started on the trails.