Behind the Munich-based forge Fatmodul is a crew of trail bikers who prioritise riding fun above all else. With the ANT, they have created a single trail fun machine and thought of everything: chain guide, bash guard, ISCG mount with chainsuck protection, telescopic seat post, wide, tidy cockpit, compact gear ratio and lightweight wheels at an attractive price. The low overall weight provides uphill support, while the low rotating masses give the bike nimble handling. The short geometry provides a good overview (size M is small). All three test riders only squeezed 125 millimetres out of the fork, but it works very sensitively and is easy to operate. The drop helps on steep ramps. In high-speed use on Lake Garda, the bike reaches its limit: the DT shock hardens on big, fast hits and the short wheelbase makes it nervous.
Conclusion: Well thought-out singletrail bike with full equipment. Loves a playful riding style more than full-throttle passages.
PLUS Relatively light (wheels), very well chosen equipment for the intended use. Inexpensive frame, clever details
MINUS Only three frame sizes, tight shock tuning, moderate wet grip of the tyre compound
The alternative
Fatmodul is only offering one version of the ANT this season. Further variants are planned for 2014. However, the frame is suitable for customisation and the set shown here costs 1599 euros.
