The brand: terribly forbidden!
Forbidden Bikes, launched in 2019, is deeply rooted in the fascinating landscape of Vancouver Island. It is named after the legendary Forbidden Plateau, a local biking oasis. Thanks to the optimal year-round weather and diverse trails, Vancouver Island proves to be the perfect incubator for the development of revolutionary mountain bikes. With the FORBIDDEN Druid Bike, their flagship product, the brand is defining a clear edge against the mainstream and boldly breaking with conventional standards.
Classic rear triangle instead of High Pivot
With the Reya, Forbidden dispenses with the brand's typical high-pivot concepts with pulleys. Instead, a classic four-bar rear triangle with large bearings is used. You will also look in vain for idler pulleys, flex stays or exotic axle paths.
The focus is clearly on a defined area of use: a light, efficient trail bike that works on long climbs as well as technical descents.
OneRide geometry for all frame sizes
The central element is the so-called OneRide geometry. The idea behind this is to keep the riding behaviour as constant as possible regardless of the frame size.
- Proportional chainstay lengths depending on size
- Steeper seat angle with larger frames
- Balanced weight distribution between front and rear wheel
The aim: similar traction, balance and suspension characteristics - regardless of whether the rider is short or tall.
Forbidden Reya - Geometry (Pike 130 mm)
| Reach | 435 | 455 | 475 | 495 |
| Stack | 598 | 612 | 625 | 639 |
| Top tube length (horizontal) | 573 | 596 | 619 | 642 |
| Seat tube length | 400 | 420 | 440 | 470 |
| Seat angle (effective) | 77 | 77 | 77 | 77 |
| Seat angle (actual) | 68,9 | 71,3 | 73,4 | 75,2 |
| Head tube length | 90 | 105 | 120 | 135 |
| Steering angle | 65 | 65 | 65 | 65 |
| Front Centre | 743 | 769 | 796 | 822 |
| Rear centre | 420 | 435 | 449 | 464 |
| Wheelbase | 1163 | 1204 | 1244 | 1285 |
| Bottom bracket drop (BB drop) | -42 | -42 | -42 | -42 |
| Bottom bracket height | 331 | 331 | 331 | 331 |
| Protrusion height (standover) | 715 | 717 | 719 | 721 |
| Fork length | 541 | 541 | 541 | 541 |
| Fork offset | 44 | 44 | 44 | 44 |
Trifecta kinematics with clear tuning
The revised Trifecta kinematics rely on a progressive characteristic curve. It is designed to provide even support over the entire suspension travel and work efficiently at the same time.
- Anti-squat: approx. 110 % in the sag range → stable when pedalling
- Anti-rise: constant at around 80 % → controlled behaviour when braking
- Gear-dependent chain feedback for a balanced ride feel
The result, according to the manufacturer: a chassis that remains calm when climbing and works sensitively and predictably downhill.
Sophisticated frame structure
Forbidden also takes a functional approach to the details:
- Space for a drinking bottle in all sizes
- low damper position close to the bottom bracket for better mass distribution
- External cable routing instead of integration through the headset
- No integrated storage space in favour of weight and rigidity
- Robust bearings and ISCG mounts for chain guides
Tools and spare parts should be deliberately attached externally.
Three equipment options, frameset to follow
The Reya comes in three complete versions:
- T1High-end with Fox Factory suspension and SRAM XXSL T-Type
- T2Middle class with RockShox Pike Ultimate and SRAM GX
- T3: Entry with RockShox Select+ and SRAM Eagle
Prices start at 6,299 dollarsthe top model is at 10,499 dollars.
A frame set will later be available for 3,399 dollars follow.
Conclusion:
With the Reya, Forbidden is not focussing on spectacular technology, but on a coherent overall package. Classic rear triangle, modern geometry and a clearly defined range of use - a trail bike for riders who value efficiency without sacrificing off-road reserves.
Dimitri Lehner
Editor
