Is my Druid compatible with the new SRAM Eagle Transmission?
UDH Druid frames are compatible with the new Eagle Transmission (MY22 Druid LTD New Growth and Midnight Velvet). Reach out to us if you have questions: contact@forbiddenbike.com
What is the Recommended Sag?
We recommend riders start out in the 30-35% range and experiment. Most will be happier closer to the 35% mark or 19mm of shock travel.
What is in the box?
In the box, you’ll find an additional derailleur hanger and an ethirteen chainguide specifically designed for your Druid.
Can I use another Chainguide?
Our chainguide partners, ethirteen, manufactured the Druid’s chainguide specifically for that application and currently it is the only option. We do envision having more options available from other component brands in the future.
What is the correct chain length?
Your chain length and the size of your front chainring can also affect this process. We recommend fitting your bike with the appropriate length chain based on your frame size and a 32 tooth chainring and a cassette with a 50-52 tooth upper sprocket. For more details on correct chain length, please visit our Tech Support page and click “Maximizing Gear Shifting Performance”.
What kind of headset does the Druid use?
The Druid needs a ZS44/28.6 upper and a ZS56/40 lower headset cup.
Why the Fox DPX2 Shock?
We are big fans of the DPX2 shock for its supportive ride characteristic; something that we feel is perfect for an aggressive trail bike like the Druid.
Can I run a coil shock?
Absolutely, the Druid’s progressive leverage curve supports the use of a coil shock. Please refer to our technical specifications for shock and hardware specs and speak to us directly or your local Forbidden dealer regarding individual coil shock compatibility.
Are Rockshox Air Shocks compatible?
Yes, RockShox air shocks will of course work on the Druid but like all air shocks (and unlike coil shocks to some extent), they will need to have the correct internal tune to maximize performance. We are currently testing various tunes with SRAM/ RockShox which we’ll share as soon as we can. If you can’t wait that long, please contact us!
What is the recommended fork travel?
Optimal fork travel for the Druid is 150mm, but you can run 140mm if you choose. Running a fork length more than 571mm voids the warranty.
What fork offset works best?
We recommend a 44mm [for Fox] or a 42mm [for RockShox] fork offset as that is what we believe will best suit most riders and trail scenarios. We have tested the Druid with a 51mm offset too, which works great if you prefer a lively steering feel.
Can I run the Druid in a mullet configuration?
Yes, the Druid can be converted to a mullet setup using our proprietary Ziggy link. Making any modifications to the shock stroke or stock linkage to adapt the Druid for a 650b rear wheel will void the warranty.
What is the optimal or maximum chainring size?
Thanks to Forbidden’s high pivot design, chainring size has little to no effect on suspension performance, but each frame size has a maximum chainring size which are: 30, 34, 36 and 38 on the small, medium, large and X-large respectively.
Can I run an oval chainring?
The Druid’s high pivot and anti-squat numbers support the use of an oval chainring, but installation will require some experimentation. Depending on your chainset you will have to ‘clock’ your oval ring and find the sweet spot. This does, unfortunately, mean that you can not use SRAM cranks which have a 3-bolt direct mount configuration, which doesn’t allow clocking of the chainring.
What is the tire clearance?
We recommend a maximum rear tire size of 2.4in in the Druid, but some tires up to 2.6in will work. Should a desired tire option foul on the swingarm, remove it immediately. Exceeding recommended tire widths will void your warranty.
Why does the Druid have an Idler Pulley?
The idler (alongside the high pivot and the longer chain) helps to isolates drivetrain forces from negatively impacting the suspension. For more information please dive into our technical pages.
Does each frame size have its own swingarm?
No, we use the same swingarm across the size range. We achieve proportional sizing, and different chainstay lengths, by adjusting the location of the bottom bracket relative to the pivot points on the front triangle. For more on our “One Ride” geometry story, please head to our Technology page for more info.
Can I build up a Druid with a rear cassette that goes down to a 9 tooth cog?
No. The stays and rear chainstay protector were designed around a 10t being the smallest cog. When riding the Druid in the 10t, the chain will touch the rubber padding to help silence the drivetrain. Going smaller than the 10t may result in a loss of performance and potentially bring the chain too close to the carbon frame.
Why does my chain touch my rubber seat stay protector?
You will find the chain contacts the rubber seat stay protector in the hardest gear on your cassette. This is normal and won’t cause any damage that will affect the performance of your frame.
Why do my water bottle mounts look mis-aligned?
This is normal. The water bottle cage is aligned to the centerline of the frame. The shock, shock tunnel, and linkage are offset to the non-drive side of the bike. Because of this, the downtube is not symmetrical along the frame centerline.
