Joe at Bicycles of Phoenix has wanted a carbon Honzo for the last couple of years. “I like that it’s a legit, playful bike with progressive trail geometry.” He hadn’t had a hardtail in 18 years, so he wanted to build one that he would still be into for years to come.

“I feel like hardtails are much more timeless, so I put a little into it. I grew up riding and still ride BMX. I like that the Honzo feels like a big BMX bike for the trails.”

The drivetrain is built around a set of Truvativ Stylo carbon cranks with an Absolute Black oval chainring. Kona Wah Wah II composite pedals provide all the traction.

Race Face Next R bars and a Turbine R stem anchor the cockpit while ESI’s silicone grips provide grip and comfort.

SRAM Guide RSC brakes looking after stopping duties.

Industry Nine Trail 270 hoops are laced to Industry Nine’s Hydra hubs.

The wheels are shod with Teravail’s Ehline tires, a 2.5″ up front and a 2.3″ out the back.

And that rad leather frame bag? That is from Studio Seven Leather Co (also from Phoenix) and is their Bicycle Essentials Bag