Arc8 Extra Air test: This is how powerful the lightweight all-mountain bike really is!

The Extra Air has the edge on the climbs - at least that's what you might think if you compare the weights of the four test bikes in our all-mountain group. At 13.75 kilos, Arc8 is by far the lightest bike in the test. The Swiss even beat the Rocky Mountain by 450 grams. The Arc8 owes this lead to two factors: the price and the frame construction. But more on that later.

The facts about the Arc8 Extra Air

At 7499 euros, the Extra Air marks the upper end of the price range in this test. This means that the product managers have the most room for manoeuvre when it comes to specifying high-quality, lightweight components. A flawless XT drivetrain, suspension elements and dropper seatpost from Fox's high-end range and lightweight DT Swiss wheels - with this array of high-end components, the Arc8 secures top marks in terms of equipment quality. The filigree carbon chassis, which is not very stiff on the main frame, contributes the lion's share to the exemplary weight of the Arc8. On the one hand, the Swiss have done away with the Horstlink bearings in the rear triangle construction and instead rely on flexing seat stays. On the other hand, the minimalist shock linkage with the two guide cylinders also reduces the weight by valuable grams.

Easy but still tough uphill

If you actually take the Arc8 Extra Air on long tours or steep climbs, the initial euphoria is quickly dampened, because despite the first-class weight, the bike falls behind in terms of climbing efficiency. Why? If you crank up your metres in altitude on asphalt, the rear suspension bobs eagerly with every turn of the cranks. Compared to the competition, this is where the most energy is wasted. But even when climbing off-road, the candidate could not fully convince us. Under chain tension, the rear end is stingy with traction and the high front end, in combination with the slack steering angle, tends to tip over, making it difficult to control at slow speeds.

Playful and tough

Downhill, the geometry of the Arc8 holds all the trump cards. The slackest steering angle, the longest wheelbase and the high front create a confident ride and super smooth ride. In addition, the rider is comfortably low behind the control centre - without having to sacrifice too much of the play instinct, mind you.

Not least because of the low weight, the Extra shows this off better than any other test bike. The suspension does a great job: both the fork and the rear suspension generate excellent traction, respond in a defined manner and reliably smooth out small and large bumps. Active riders will be pleased with the good support in the middle suspension travel. The only drawback: under heavy braking, the rear loses its plush character and breaks out a little faster than the competition from Mondraker and Rocky Mountain.

BIKE review: Arc8 Extra Air XT

Conclusion from Max Fuchs

The Arc8 shines with its first-class equipment and outstanding weight. The playfulness is unique for a bike in this suspension travel class. The downhill expertise is also impressive. On the other hand, the Extra Air has weaknesses in terms of climbing characteristics and suspension efficiency and therefore narrowly misses out on the test victory.