The Stinner Romero MT and LT Full Suspension MTB

Stinner Frameworks, the Santa Barbara-based custom builder with a two-decade pedigree, has officially launched its first full-suspension mountain bike, the Romero. Previewed earlier this year at the 2025 MADE Bike Show, the Romero will be available in two distinct versions, the MT and LT, catering to different trail disciplines. This marks a significant expansion for a brand primarily known for its handcrafted rigid and hardtail offerings.

This foray into full-suspension represents a calculated risk for Stinner, a niche builder operating in a market dominated by larger manufacturers with vast R&D budgets. Their reputation for precision and bespoke quality will be tested against the complexities of suspension kinematics and modern mountain bike geometry. For a brand synonymous with artisanal craftsmanship, moving into a segment that often prioritizes technical innovation over traditional frame-building methods is a notable strategic shift.

Ultimately, Stinner's move into full-suspension suggests that even the most established custom builders must adapt to market demands, or perhaps, simply acknowledge the gravitational pull of gravity-fed riding.