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Build Overview
This 56cm Niner RLT 9 RDO was built alongside the 53cm version as a custom pair for a couple upgrading their bikes. This build lands at what we’d call a “2.5-Star” configuration—primarily an Apex drivetrain with some smart upgrades, including a Rival rear derailleur and a few component swaps that make the bike perform better than a typical stock 2-Star build.
Like many of our Niner builds, this one was assembled from the frame up using our parts inventory and a mix of components selected specifically for the rider’s needs, budget, and fit.
Video
This video covers both bikes in this build pair. Use the video and scroll to see the specifics for the 56cm build.
Full Build Specs
- Frame: Niner RLT 9 RDO (56cm)
- Drivetrain: SRAM Apex (with Rival rear derailleur upgrade)
- Rear Derailleur: SRAM Rival (tighter feel than Apex)
- Handlebar: Salsa Cowchipper
- Seatpost: Niner Carbon (upgrade from typical alloy on 2-Star builds)
- Wheels: Stan’s wheelset (upgrade over stock Niner gravel wheels)
- Tires: Stock Niner-supplied gravel tires
- Stem: Custom length selected after rider fitting
Build Notes
This bike uses an Apex drivetrain as the base, but we swapped in a Rival rear derailleur because it’s noticeably tighter and cleaner than Apex. We had one in our parts inventory, and it fit the goals of this build perfectly. Combined with the carbon Niner seatpost and upgraded wheels, this bike sits comfortably above a standard 2-Star build without breaking into full 3-Star pricing.
The rider also got a custom stem length after fitting in the shop, and both bikes in this pair received Salsa Cowchipper bars to match the rider preferences. The Stan’s wheels offer a nice improvement over the stock Niner wheels typically found on lower-tier builds.
While this build is more modest than some of the fully custom RLTs we’ve shown (like the steel RLT with full Shimano 12-speed), it represents what we do most often: practical, rider-specific builds that mix and match components to balance ride quality, performance, and value.
Because we build most Ninerd RLTs from the frame up anyway, we’re able to get creative with drivetrain tiers and component mixes. It’s something we genuinely enjoy—taking a great frameset and making it work perfectly for the rider.
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Work With Us On a Custom Build
If you’re thinking about a custom gravel, MTB, or road build, we can help you spec it out, match the components to your riding style, and build it right.