Market: For 2017, ZEG's own brand Bulls will be launched with two new models. In addition to a carbon version of their value-for-money hardtail, the Bulls Millenial, there will also be a new urban bike - including the recently introduced Shimano Metrea group.
Bulls Copperhead Carbon: Wide range of models
Since its introduction a few years ago, the Bulls Copperhead has been one of the absolute best value for money mountain bikes season after season. Then, in 2014, Bulls surprised everyone with the introduction of a carbon-framed Copperhead model that made entry into the world of carbon hardtails cheaper than ever. For 2017, the carbon variants of the entry-level hardtail are now going full throttle: with more models, more wheel sizes, a newly developed frame and a sensational entry-level price of €1.499.
The new frame is based on the top model Black Adder - but in order to achieve the Copperhead-typical low price, a higher proportion of so-called low-modulus carbon fibers was used: This increases the weight a little, but the frame also absorbs blows ground better and increases comfort for the driver. According to Bulls, the new Copperhead carbon frame weighs just 1.100 grams - that should be unrivaled in this price range and even direct sellers will have to warm up in view of the competitive price of less than €1.500.
The entry-level model comes with an 11-speed XT rear derailleur from Shimano, Magura MT4 brakes and the in-house Bulls Lytro suspension fork. With the top model Bulls Copperhead Carbon RS, buyers will find not only a complete XT drive but also Deore brakes from Shimano and the tried-and-tested, high-quality Rock Shox Reba suspension fork. All model variants will also be available with both the large 29″ and the agile, manoeuvrable 27,5″ wheels. Regardless of the wheel size or the model variant, the new Bulls XC 21 wheels are used, which, in addition to 21mm wide rims, also rely on the new Boost standard and, as befits the year 2016, are of course also tubeless ready. By the way: If you want to upgrade the frame afterwards and are flirting with one of the electronic Di2 groupsets from Shimano, you can rest easy: The Copperhead Carbon is Di2-ready - nothing stands in the way of electronic shifting pleasure.
Bulls Millenial: Urban understatement
Urban bikes are no strangers to the Bulls portfolio: With the pragmatically named 'Urban' product line, experience has already been gained in this area, and the Sturmvogel e-bike also shows that Bulls understands the requirements of modern city traffic on a bike. With the Bulls Millenial, a completely new model sees the light of day in the 2017 model year. Simple, minimalist, sporty – these adjectives perhaps best describe the look and character of the newcomer. The frame is based on modern racing bikes in terms of shape and geometry, but comes with a shorter top tube and thus a more upright seating position: This not only makes the bike more comfortable, but also improves the overview in the often hectic urban jungle.
Speaking of comfort: Thanks to ample tire clearance in the frame and fork, there is room for tires with a width of up to 40mm - the wider tires and the higher volume should be a blessing for all those who have to rumble over bike paths riddled with potholes and bumps every day. The carbon seat post provides additional comfort, which thanks to its special design offers a natural flex and dampens unpleasant vibrations. A nice detailed solution is the rear light integrated into the frame, which, like the lighting on the front, gets its energy from the hub dynamo on the front wheel.
The new Shimano Metrea group is installed in the top model of the Bulls Millenial, which in terms of its alignment fits perfectly with the new Bulls Urban Bike: Based on the racing bike groups of the Japanese manufacturer, it is much more stylish and tailored to daily use in city traffic. Nothing embodies this hybrid position between racing bike and trekking bike better than the new 'H-Bar' handlebars: Its forward-curved shape is intended to offer a grip position similar to that of the upper handlebars on a classic racing bike.
Detailed prices and equipment lists can be expected at the Eurobike at the end of August.