Mason Bokeh Rival 1x review

The Bokeh is Mason’s response to its own customers after seeing its Resolution and Definition models being used in ways it hadn’t envisaged, with bikepacking being one major area. The changes include big tyre clearance – our test bike came fitted with chunky 650x50mm tyres with room to spare.

The ability to fit both 650B or 700C wheel sizes is something we’re seeing more of, the former giving the option of even bigger volume tyres, which offer a more comfortable ride, but don’t affect the geometry or handling.

Looks-wise, the Bokeh is a winner, with a bright orange paint finish but subtle branding matched with smooth-shaped tubing that looks the part.

Using custom-formed and triple-butted Dedacciai aluminium tubing, the Bokeh presents an incredible ride that feels light enough to tackle the biggest hills and mountains around, but solid enough to be stable when loaded up.

It’s clear to see that adventures were a big factor when designing the frame with a full complement of bottle cage bosses, mudguard and rack mounts.

There’s even a boss to fit a dynamo light on the fork. Di2 cable routing is taken care of with multi-port internal cabling keeping the frame clear and uncluttered.

The Mason x Hunt wheels, designed as a collaboration between the two companies, are a great fit for the intended riding style.

Feeling fairly light and strong, whether you’re carrying weight or simply out for a short ride.

Mason offer the choice of either 700c or 650b wheel sizes – the 650b wheel option on our test bike, fitted with 50mm Panaracer Comet Hardpack tyres, is the one to pick if you want to head off-road frequently.

While the tyres proved to be fast, grippy on and off-road, and comfortable when used at around 50psi, they aren’t tubeless-ready, which is a shame.

SRAM Rival 1x has a comfortable lever shape, but the shifting is a little clunky compared to other options, with a long and often imprecise shifter throw, but the matching brakes were a highlight, with plenty of modulation and more power than we ever needed.

Ratings

Frame 10/10; Components 8/10; Wheels 9/10; The ride 9/10

Verdict: While the Mason is quite pricey, it’s easy to see where the extra money goes. The whole bike has been extremely well thought out and is sensational to ride. With buyers able to choose between 650b or 700c wheels, it really could suit all riding styles.

Spec