Diamondback Overdrive (2013)

The bike industry sees fads come and go. Innovation doesn’t always assure success or even relevance. Luckily, the 29er revolution is one that’s here to stay—and for good reason.
There’s no denying the rock crawling, root crushing power of a larger wheel. Making the largest of obstacles the smallest of matters is a defining trait of these muddy beasts. By offering decreased rolling resistance, increased traction when cornering and improved ground clearance, one ride upon one of these massive behemoths is sure to sway even the staunchest skeptic.
Benefits of a 29” Wheel
Angle of Attack – Larger wheels decrease your angle of attack by allowing you to roll over obstacles easier and faster. Bigger wheel = smaller obstacle.
Momentum – A larger wheel enables one to carry momentum easier though obstacles.
Surface Contact – 29”wheels are less prone to sinking in soft material such as sand and mud due to the larger contact patch causing lower ground pressure. The longer contact patch increases cornering and straight line traction
Stability – The relative position of the bottom bracket/cranks to the axles in the wheels also means that your relative center of gravity is lower. This results in a feeling of riding “in” the bike rather than on top of it.
Tire Clearance – with more tire choices than any platform, the 29”wheel easily accommodates off road as well as commuting tires.
Taller Riders – 29" bikes tend to offer taller riders a more “natural” frame geometry.
The Diamondback Overdrive packs a punch in terms of value and affordability and takes 29ers to a new level. The improved 2013 6061-T6 Aluminum Overdrive series frame boasts of newly formed top and down tubes, a machined headtube, and forged drop outs with a replaceable derailleur hanger.
The Geometry is spot on. The ever so sloping top tube provides ample standover clearance. A 71° head tube angle and a 73° seat tube angle create the perfect XC/trail geometry. The 390mm (15.4 inch) chainstays equate to an extremely snappy rig and the ability to easily get the front wheel off the ground – something that not all 29ers can be so proud of.
The Overdrive is a fantastic entry level 29er well balanced between value and performance. The SR Suntour XCT gives you 100mm of travel for the perfect amount of cushion up front. Add to that Disc brakes courtesy of Tektro and you have one of the best in class values for an entry level 29er period.
The Sram X-4 shifters and rear derailleur make the going easy while the Shimano TX50 dual pull front derailleur keeps the shifting smooth for the SR Suntour XCT crankset (22/32/42t). Add in Weinmann SL-7 double wall rims with WTB Wolverine Comp tires and you can ride this bike over pretty much anything. Diamondback signature alloy handlebars, stem post and Race saddle w/tubular cromo rails round out this package.
The 2013 Overdrive is an economical means of getting into a new 29er. Whether it’s your first 29er, you’re just “testing the waters”, or whether you want to add a new steed to the stable. The Overdrive is gloss red and is offered in SM (16"), MD (18"), LG (20"), and XL (22") are sure to offer the value and quality that you are looking for in a new 2013 Overdrive 29er.