When we presented the Jekyll in 2010, we already surmised that a 160 mm fork would suit the enormously stiff chassis. Some customers already realised this back then, and now the 2013 model rolls out of the shop with the Fox 34 Talas 160. But that's not all. A chain guide, carbon wheels and a smaller gear ratio (36/22 instead of the previous 38/24) on the crank are intended to trim the bike more towards enduro racing. As part of Fox's model update, the 2013 model naturally has the CTD option on the right fork leg. Here too, the system makes a good impression, the slightly firmer trail mode works very well in undulating terrain and with the short rear travel. In downhill (Descend) mode, however, the fork could do with a little more compression damping. The design difference in the fork, the 34 instead of 32 millimetre tube diameter, is only noticeable in direct comparison and only in the first few metres after switching to the other model. The Jekyll with its massive tubes and 1.5 inch head tube never lacked stiffness or steering precision anyway. Once you've warmed up, both bikes are equally fast on the trails.
What I like about the Jekyll overall is that you immediately feel comfortable. The bike fits like a tailor-made suit and gives the rider that X-Men ability: riding super fast and having the feeling of absolute control. On the difficult trail test lap, none of the riders with the 2013 bike pulled out a significant lead. Even without a chain guide, but with a locked Shadow Plus rear derailleur, the chain stays put on the 2012. No bike should be without such a rear derailleur. Both years offer a dropper post that can be lowered from the handlebars, so why invest more? If you want to count peas, you'll find the XTR brakes on the 2013 to be more capable than the Avid on the 2012, celebrate the carbon wheels for their lower unsprung weight and realise that the fork actually uses a centimetre more travel. However, it's not worth spending the extra 1700 euros that make the difference between a new bike and a discontinued model. If you browse the market, you will discover the 2012 model for less than 4800 euros - still not a bargain, but worth the money. It's better to invest the savings in a super-light second wheelset with fast tyres and pimp the bike into a marathon racer. Oh yes: If you take a closer look, you'll notice a slight difference in the scoring, but both deserve the Super rating.
