Test: In the past few weeks we have published our big test of trail bikes up to €4.000 and recorded the results in a list of the best. 14 bikes had to prove themselves and were actually all able to convince, although there are of course differences in characteristics, equipment, price and orientation. We have briefly summarized the results for you.
Trailbike Test 2017 - Finding #1: The price is not decisive
First of all, of course, one thing stands out: The first two places on our list of the best are with the Canyon Spectral AL 7.0 and the ROSE Root Miller 2 two of the cheapest bikes in the test. It should not go unmentioned here that the testers did not know how much the respective test bikes cost before their ride. After the test ride, we asked our riders where they would classify the test bike they had just ridden in terms of price – the testers put our two test winners in the range of around €3.500. Now one can draw a conclusion from this: the simple calculation, more expensive = better, only works to a limited extent here.
Where the price is clearly reflected in most cases, however, is in the weight. The more expensive representatives in the test are usually equipped with a light carbon frame and are therefore often in the 13kg range. It was the lightest bike in the test Radon Slide 140 Carbon, which weighs just 12,09kg in size L without pedals. That too Cube Stereo 140 C:62 SL and Bergamot Trailster 10.0 are very easy. However, the test showed once again that a lighter bike does not always have to climb better. The geometry, the tires and the range of gear ratios are also important here.
Trailbike Test 2017 - Finding #2: Wheel size - an individual thing
Which wheel size is right for a modern trail bike? It's not that easy to answer this question, but our test showed a clear trend towards the classic 27,5 inch wheels. These have a number of advantages: they are lighter, in most cases they make the bike a little more agile and the wheels are stiffer. In contrast to their 29-inch siblings, however, they lack a little smoothness, compared to the wide plus tires they lack some grip.
In any case, the same applies here as to many other factors: It depends on individual needs, the terrain and also the driving style. Only an extensive test drive can really provide information about the driving behavior. The option of being able to drive both 29 inch and 27,5 Plus frames should be interesting for many buyers. The XMA Flow Select by Drössiger is available in both variations.
Trailbike Test 2017 – Finding #3: Two chainrings (still?) have advantages
Another crucial question – what goes better with a trail bike? One or two chainrings? This mainly depends on the area of use and the rider's calves. For those who spend a lot of time in the high and medium mountains, scrubbing up altitude and not in top shape, there is still no way around a classic 2017-speed drive for the 4.000 models up to €2. The handling is not quite as intuitive, the weight is a bit higher and the chain clatters loudly against the front derailleur on the descent, but the range makes up for it on the next tough climb.
That could change with the 2018 models - then we should also be able to buy them in the lower price regions GX Eagle by SRAM see, the range of which almost reaches a 2-speed drive without being too expensive. In our opinion, this is pretty much the optimal solution for a modern trail bike: on the left side of the handlebars there is room for a remote lever for the seat post, the range is sufficient and the weight is low.
Trail bike test 2017: The results
https://www.velomotion.de/bestenliste-trailbikes-vergleichstest-test-mtb/
Trailbike Test 2017: Our test winner
Canyon Spectral AL 7.0
Canyon's evergreen narrowly won the test ahead of ROSE's Root Miller 2. The Spectral was one of the best and most potent bikes in the test on the descents and the climbing abilities were also convincing. The level of equipment is very high in view of the low price and overall the bike from Koblenz offers very little reason for criticism.
Alternatives: ROSE Root Miller 2 | Marine Rift Zone 7
The downhill specialist
Bergamot Trailster 10.0
No other trail bike in our test field came as dangerously close to an enduro on the descent as the neon yellow northern lights of Bergamont. With 150mm of travel, a slack steering angle and a plush rear end, it really puts you in a good mood for root-busting and difficult terrain.
Alternatives: Drössiger XMA Flow Select Plus | ROSE Root Miller 2
The climbing goat
Radon Slide Carbon 140
If you want to go down, you have to go up first - and here it was the Radon Slide Carbon 140 that stuck its nose at the competition. At just over 12kg without pedals, it is not only the lightest bike in the test, but the geometry and equipment also underline its ambitions as a climbing goat.
Alternatives: Giant Anthem Advanced SX | Centurion No Pogo 2000.27
The tourer
Scott Spark 720Plus
For many potential buyers, the trail bike should almost completely replace the existing fleet and also be used for long tours. Balanced characteristics are required here, as well as good uphill and downhill qualities. Likewise, a not too extreme seating position and the right equipment. The Scott Spark 720 Plus would be a good choice for these requirements.
Alternatives: Cube Stereo 140 C:62 SL | Trek Fuel EX 8 29
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