At Rotwild you are spoilt for choice. The tried and tested All Mountain R.X1 is available in two wheel sizes this season. The developers have endeavoured to give both bikes similar characters. The main focus was on the riding position, which should remain the same despite the unavoidable changes to the geometry. To assess the riding behaviour, we tested two R.X1 models against each other. The 26er rolls to the start with Shimano XT equipment, the 29er with XTR. The scoring must therefore be considered in a differentiated manner.
The important first glance at the weight is not enough to realise the differences in the wheel philosophy. The 26er has a heavy dropper post (200 euros extra). Nevertheless, the 29er is still half a kilo heavier. Adjusted for equipment, that would be around 900 grams at the expense of the larger wheels. The additional weight of the 29er is mainly due to the wheels (half a kilo) and the fork. The new 34 mm Fox on the 29er weighs 300 grams more than the Fox 32 Talas. Unfortunately, the bikes were not available in identical frame sizes. The 29er has a five centimetre longer wheelbase, which is clearly noticeable in tight corners. The chainstays are 2.5 centimetres longer and the front is four centimetres higher despite the short head tube.
In the efficiency calculation, the 29er comes out on top - if you consider bobbing to be the bigger troublemaker. The 29er doesn't bob, but has a little more pedal kickback. On the other hand, the 29er is less stiff. Based on the measured values in the laboratory, it is not yet possible to name a clear winner. Off to the test track in the Ötztal: Both bikes have good geometry and a good riding position. Uphill, the 26er has the tyre in front, it accelerates a little faster and feels more agile. However, you have to switch on the shock platform, on steep ramps it rears up, where the 29er remains calm. You can feel the strengths of the R.X1 29 on demanding trails
downhill from the very first few metres. The agility of the 26er, which has just been praised, turns into unease here. In full throttle sections, the large wheels don't give the small ones a chance. Finding the line becomes a minor matter, the confidence in the bike is much greater on the 29er. You can clearly feel the secure guidance of the more massive fork. The downside becomes apparent on twisty sections. The 29er is more rear-heavy and it's difficult to turn the rear wheel in a trial-like manner on tight switchbacks, as the long wheelbase means you'll quickly hit corners. The wheelbase plus the larger tyres result in a bike that is eleven centimetres longer.
The 26er R.X1 is sportier, lighter and more playful. If you love technical trails and approach all-mountain riding without any pressure to perform, the R.X1 29 is the bike for you. For riders over 190 centimetres, the 29er is the right choice anyway. What becomes clear again in this comparison: 29ers with stable all-mountain equipment are heavy lumps. 13.8 kilos for a bike costing 5599 euros is a lot of wood. However, a 29er specified in this way is as potent as some 26-inch enduro bikes.
Rotwild R.X1 26 Pro
PLUS Proven all-mountain bike with a sporty character and steep, climbing-friendly geometry. Solid equipment (Shimano XT groupset), good details, lightweight wheels. Vario seatpost (200 euro surcharge).
MINUS Narrower handlebars, slightly more nervous and more bobbing than the 29er. Relatively heavy aluminium chassis.
Rotwild R.X1 29 Edition
PLUS Plenty of suspension travel, very smooth, very stable. Stiff but heavy fork (34 mm Fox). Top equipment with a wide range of use. Downhill, it plays in the same league as 26-inch enduro bikes.
MINUS Not very manoeuvrable on tight bends. Rear-heavy handling. High weight despite expensive top equipment. Narrow handlebars.
Conclusion by Christoph Listmann: "The 29-inch R.X1 is the stronger mountain bike for my taste, and I accept the higher weight. It turns more smoothly and rolls downhill even better over obstacles than the already very good 26er. The disadvantages of the 29er are its manoeuvrability. The 26er is easier to manoeuvre on hairpin bends."
