These topics can be found in the first part of the dream bike test:
We have tested these 6 dream bikes for you:
(Click to go to the individual rating)
The test report
Handbags with prices in the four-digit range, remote controls made from 18-carat rose gold or a bathtub made from a giant rock crystal - it sounds absurd that such products exist. But the fact that they are also bought shows one thing above all: our society's consumer behaviour has long since ceased to be rational. Not even that of our readers. This test is clear proof of this.
The reader's wish is our command
The test bikes were not put together according to our usual selection process, which is usually based on categories or price ranges. To be more precise, the composition was created entirely without our involvement - with the exception of a survey in one of the last issues and on our online channels. This time, we let you decide which models we would like to test. Suspension travel, range of use, wheel size. None of that mattered. Neither did the price. The result was a test group as diverse and exclusive as we've seen for a long time.
Spring travel from 120 to 190 mm - no price limit
The twelve dream bikes cover the entire suspension travel range from 120 to 190 millimetres. The frame designs range from unsprung diamond frames to hand-laminated carbon fullys and CNC-milled aluminium bikes. In addition to the classics in the Far East, Finland, Germany and Great Britain are also represented in the production facilities. But back to the topic of common sense and consumer behaviour: Because on average, our readers' dream bikes cost an impressive 7500 euros. The most expensive candidate - the Last Tarvo - even comes in at an incredible 12922 euros. The average consumer usually doesn't even spend that much when buying a used car. All the more reason to ask the question: What is so fascinating about these dream bikes that bikers are prepared to spend such large sums on a second-hand item?
An exclusive test group
Looking over the six bikes in our test, it quickly becomes clear that anyone who spends this much money on a mountain bike is usually not interested in mass-produced goods. It is therefore hardly surprising that four of the six brands - Raaw, Last, Pole and Deviate - fall into the "boutique manufacturer" category. Strikingly sustainable or particularly elaborate production methods often only allow for limited quantities and manageable model ranges. This guarantees exclusivity.
The lightest enduro frame in the world
Last, for example, bakes its Enduro Tarvo in the autoclave of lightweight construction specialist Bike Ahead Composites in Würzburg - THE address for high-quality carbon production. The fact that the lightest enduro frame in the world is created in the process is reason enough for many bikers to clear their bank accounts. For others, the Dortmund-based company's unique selling point is the "Made in Germany" seal of quality.
Each brand is characterised by a special feature
The Finns from Pole Bicycle also stand out from the norm in several respects. On the one hand, through the unusual geometries of their enduro bikes. On the other hand, through the CNC-milled aluminium frames. On top of this, the high-end chassis are also produced in-house. However, the young company Raaw proves that sustainable bikes do not only originate from local production facilities. Although the Allgäu-based company has its frames welded in Taiwan, it improves the carbon footprint of its products through exemplary durability. The fact that the Scottish brand Deviate - which means "deviate" - does not offer mass-produced goods is clear from the name. Thanks to the consistent implementation of so-called high-pivot rear triangles, the brand from the Highlands is becoming increasingly popular, especially among enduro racers. In addition to the exclusive boutique brands, developments from more prestigious brands are also on the wish list of many bikers. Trek, the Mercedes of mountain bikes so to speak, with its Top Fuel down-country model represented in the test. The Merida One-Forty 10k on the other hand, epitomises the Volkswagen in this test group - but of course with everything that the optional equipment list has to offer.
Exotic geometry data for the test candidates
A look at the geometry data also reveals that we are dealing almost exclusively with exotic bikes in this test. A steering angle of less than 64 degrees, as on the Pole, is a rarity even by enduro standards. Even more striking, however, are the seat angles of the individual bikes. In our previous comparison tests, geometries with 77-degree seat tubes were already considered extreme. With the Deviate, Merida and Pole, three bikes in the test exceed this value.
Potential for a dream bike
But regardless of whether they feature technological highlights, special manufacturing techniques or sustainable company philosophies - on paper, the readers' favourite candidates all have the potential to be dream bikes. After extensive testing in the lab and on the trails around Finale Ligure, our test crew can also confirm this: Beyond their idealistic value, the test bikes also shine with excellent riding characteristics. Against this background, a 7500 euro mountain bike almost sounds like a sensible investment - at least compared to a gold-plated remote control.
These details are a talking point:
Conclusion: The favourites of the BIKE testers
Stefan Loibl, BIKE tester:
For me, a bike doesn't have to be a specialist in a particular area of use. Rather, it is the breadth of use that makes a model really exciting. With this in mind, the Merida delivers the best overall package in my eyes. The decent weight and the sporty geometry allow a wide range of action. The suspension travel is sufficient to give me enough confidence even on the trickiest trails.
Thomas Weschta, test driver:
Among high-priced mountain bikes, there are hardly any models that really stand out negatively due to their riding characteristics. Conversely, manufacturers have to find new ways to set themselves apart from the competition. For me, for example, Last stands out due to its local production. The added value of most components is also at least in Europe. That's something you rarely find.
Peter Nilges, BIKE Test Manager:
From small companies like Kavenz to large manufacturers like GT or Cannondale, I have sat on many high-pivot bikes. With the Deviate Claymore, however, the advantages of this frame construction come to the fore more favourably than with any other manufacturer. What's more, the Scots even offer their wonder enduro at an attractive price. 3600 euros for the frame kit - there's nothing to complain about.
Wish list from the readership
Christoph Prainsack, Germany:
I'm looking for an all-rounder with a lot of downhill potential - the key data of the Raaw Jibb seem perfect for this. It would be interesting to know whether you think the young brand's concept will prove itself in practice.
Beat Schwarzentruber, Switzerland:
I built myself a Trek Top Fuel with a carbon frame last winter. So far I'm really happy with it, but I'd still like to read your expert opinion on it.
Arild Johnsen, Norway:
I'm still wavering between the Pole Vikkelä and the Deviate Claymore. I like how both companies do their own thing in terms of design and function. However, the decision to buy still depends on the riding characteristics.
Max Fuchs
Editor
