Esker Updates Its Hardtail Lineup for 2025

Esker Cycles has refreshed most of their hardtail lineup for 2025. Let’s check the models and their updates out below…

These updates include the brand’s two classic hardtail models, Hayduke and Japhy, both of which got geo tweaks, including more stack height. The two newest members of the Esker family, Lorax Ti and Hayduke LVS, get some minor tweaks. The Lorax, Smokey, and Smokey Ti have remained the same for 2025.

2025 Esker Hayduke Hardtail Updates Quick Hits

Simplified sizing range: SM, MD, LG, XL
Steel Frames: $1000
Steel Completes: Starting at $3000
Ti Frames: $2500
Ti Completes: Starting at $4500
Top Tube Bolts: Increased snack carrying capacity
Updated Geo: Longer wheelbase, Lower center of gravity (increased BB Drop), taller stack
Increased Tire Clearance: Clearance for up to a 29×3.0 tire (clearance may vary by drivetrain choice, rim width, dropout position and actual tire measurement)
Improved Chainstay Heel Clearance: Not a ton, but Esker tried to scooch things in a bit for those exploring the backcountry in their favorite hiking boots.
Mid-Mount Rack Mounts: Rack mounts in the middle of the seatstay
‘Hitching Post’: Seat Tube bottle boss/gear strap – Allows for increased seatpost insertion *Titanium Frames Only*
Optimized Dropper Port Location: Port has been moved up the seattube to ease cable routing.
Custom Chainstay Protector: Its protection for your chainstay…and its custom
New Logo and Finish: *Titanium Frames Only*
New Paint Colors: *Steel Frames Only*

Hayduke Details

Hayduke Colors

Geo and 2025 Esker Hayduke Ti

Hayduke Geometry

The Hayduke becomes even more touring-oriented with an increase in tire clearance, geo tweaks, mid-mount rack mounts, and a new “Hitching Post” seat tube bottle boss gear strap. These changes not only help the Hayduke become a better bike for backcountry adventures, multi-day tours, and bikepacking races alike, but they also help differentiate it from the Japhy more effectively.

2025 Esker Hayduke LVS Mid-Length Hardtail Updates Quick Hits

Frames Starting $2950 MSRP
Ti Completes: Starting at $4950 MSRP
Top Tube Bolts: Increased snack carrying capacity!
Updated Geo: Increased stack offset with a longer Effective TT
Mid-Mount Rack Mounts: Rack mounts in the middle of the Seatstay
‘Hitching Post’: Seat Tube bottle boss/gear strap – Allows for increased seatpost insertion.
Custom Chainstay Protector: Its protection for your chainstay…and its custom
New Logo and Finish: *Titanium Frames Only*

For 2025, the award-winning Hayduke LVS remains unchanged but with a few key updates outlined above. This is the most legit production touring bike on the market for rough terrain where a suspension fork is necessary.

2025 Esker Japhy Hardtail Updates Quick Hits

Simplified sizing range: SM, MD, LG, XL
Updated Geo: Increased Stack offset with a longer Effective TT
Removed Seatstay Bridge: Increased compliance and ride quality
New Chainstay Yoke: Slimmer profile *Titanium Frames Only*
‘Hitching Post’: Seat Tube bottle boss/gear strap – Allows for increased seatpost insertion *Titanium Frames Only*
Optimized Dropper Port Location: Port has been moved up the seattube to ease cable routing.
Bolt-On Cable Routing: Allowing for bolt-on frame bags and stealthier routing for those using wireless shifting or no shifting at all
Custom Chainstay Protector: It’s protection for your chainstay…and its custom
New Logo Finish: *Titanium Frames Only*
New Paint Colors: *Steel Frames Only*

Japhy Details

Japhy Colors

Geo and Esker Japhy Ti

Japhy Geometry

The Japhy remains in the lineup as the lighter, quicker, and more agile short-travel hardtail. Use it for XC riding, big backcountry day missions, or just everyday riding. It lacks touring accutremonts but got an increase in stack height across all sizes.

Esker Cycles Hitching Post for Titanium Frames

All updated Esker Cycles titanium frames see the addition of the “Hitching Post”. A modification to the seat tube that brings the water bottle mounts further forward. Allowing for greater seatpost insertion while also providing a place to strap down additional gear.