Thorough Examination of the BSD Raider Frame: An In-Depth Analysis

Revised Article:

Ready to dive into the latest review on the infamous BSD Raider frame?

Let's ride, buddy!

This awesome frame has been under my wheels for quite some time now, and lemme tell ya, it's been a wild ride.

It's hands-down the sweetest frame I've had so far.

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But here's the kicker - I did something most think is certifiably bonkers.

FYI: The BSD Raider frame has officially hit the retirement home. If you're still hankering for this beast, snatch 'em up quickly, because when they're gone, that's it, folks!

This write-up will cover:

Raider Frame Highlights
Upgrades
Wrap-up

I'm standing tall at 5'11", and I rolled with a 21.6" top tube length. Yeah, you read that right!

Super sized, you say? Well, you'd be right. From a 20.5" frame, no less.

You ask, "Why the bump up in size?"

Let's dive in!

Reason #1:

I figured I'd test a theory. I imagined pros' heights and their frame sizes, and calculated a potential 'ideal' top tube length based on that.

Example: Garrett Reynolds is 5'7" but rides a 20.75" frame. Based on his TT, I'd need a 21.9" frame! (Kudos to Chad Kerley for proposing a 22" frame size!)

However, this rule doesn't always apply. If examining other pros, I'd require a significantly smaller TT.

You want to know more?

Reason #2:

I'm a sucker for witnessing dudes cruise on larger frames. Not only does it look awesome, but I'm telling you, style matters to me.

In true fashion of a trendsetter, I decided to give the BSD Raider frame a spin. Seemed like the perfect pick.

Another change I sought was a lengthier chainstay.

After banging my back peg even when straightening out the rear wheel on the WTP Battleship Magnum frame, I knew the Raider chainstay would make all the difference.

And it did, just as expected.

Note: Riding 160mm cranks and 10.5 Vans Slipons - this combo's off the charts. I'm mulling over upgrading to 155mm cranks to shift things up.

BSD Raider Frame Highlights

Important: Check out the full Raider specs and pricing below.

Here's what I heart about the BSD frame and two sweet improvements I'd add to make it more epic.

Head Tube

Transitioning from 75.5° to 75.2° raised some doubts. Would it make my nose manuals tougher?

In the long run, I noticed no real drawbacks - in fact, my nose manuals were more comfortable! This could very well be due to the extra room the 21.6" TT supplies.

The 75.2° angle was icing on the cake.

Chainstay

I was concerned about Raider's 13.5 - 14" chainstay twisting.

To my amazement, it twists! Plus, this lends itself to easier manuals, which is another basic trick I'm a fan of.

180s and 360s have never felt easier than they do on a 13" CS, though I'll admit 540s are still a work in progress. (But I did attempt a few 5s, and the spinning capabilities on this frame are on par with my dearly loved Battleship Magnum.)

Dropouts

You can bet your bottom dollar the dropouts are rock-solid, because the legendary David Grant loves grinding.

Plastic pegs fit perfectly over the dropouts for smooth grinding, worry-free about banging up rails and ledges.

They're invest cast and 7mm thick, so you know what's up!

Additionally, the built-in chain tensioners give your wheel a snug fit (though I don't use 'em myself).

For the rear end, yes, the frame fits fatter tires effortlessly!

Upgrades

Head Tube Height

I welcomed the 127mm head tube height on my previous frame. With a larger frame like the Raider, a taller head tube height would work better and make the frame a more snug fit.

Standover Height

Rather than a 9.5" standover height, I'd opt for a 9.75" or even round it to 10".

These enhancements would make the frame even more formidable than it already is.

Raider specs:

Top Tube Length: 20.7", 21", 21.3", 21.6", 21.9"
Color: Flat Black, Black, Golden Haze, Flat Raw
Head Tube: 75.2° / 117mm
Seat Tube Angle: 71°
Chainstay Length: 13.5" - 14"
Standover: 9.5"
BB Height: 11.75"
Weight: 5lbs
Price: $379.99 (may vary)

Wrap-up

Don't shy away from diving in with a larger frame size. Never let anyone else dictate what's best for your ride!

Finding your ideal fit might necessitate trying various products, but remember, the results make it totally worth it.

I couldn't be more stoked to have chosen the BSD Raider frame.

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Disclosure: This post features affiliate partnerships, which means I earn a commission from sales you make after clicking on these links.

Enrichment Data:

Overall, the search results do not provide specific insights regarding the benefits and drawbacks of going one size up in BMX frame size, such as the BSD Raider. However, based on general BMX frame sizing knowledge, the following points offer typical benefits and drawbacks of selecting a larger frame size:

Benefits of Going One Size Up in BMX Frame Size (e.g., BSD Raider)

Height Compatibility: A larger frame can better suit taller riders who might struggle with cramped space on smaller frames
Comfort: Larger frame sizes can offer more legroom for riders who prefer a more relaxed riding position
Stability: Bigger frames can provide increased stability during landings and at higher speeds, aiding control

Drawbacks of Going One Size Up in BMX Frame Size (e.g., BSD Raider)

Weight: Increased weight associated with larger frames might affect the bike's responsiveness
Reduced Maneuverability: Larger frames can feel less nimble and harder to whip or spin quickly, potentially compromising technical street or park riding
Potential for Incorrect Fit: A larger frame could stretch out riders who may not be as tall, resulting in an uncomfortable or improper fit

When choosing a larger frame such as the BSD Raider, it's essential for riders to consider their comfort, size, and riding style to ensure the best fit and experience.

If you're a BMX enthusiast and want to try out a larger frame, the BSD Raider frame could be an interesting choice for you, especially if you're taller.
On the positive side, a larger frame like the BSD Raider can offer more legroom and increased stability during landings, enhancing comfort and control. However, keep in mind that a larger frame might weigh more than a smaller frame and may affect the bike's responsiveness in certain situations. It could also potentially compromise quick maneuvers and tight turns, so consider your riding style when making your decision.