The "Compulsion series" is the latest achievement from Felt and is being tested by us for the first time. The kinematics of the "Equilink" rear suspension system, already familiar from the "Virtue", are only revealed when the shock is removed. According to Felt, nine pivot points (including shock mounts) completely decouple drive influences from the suspension at the rear. We felt the benefits of this technology especially on rough downhill bumps. Uphill, the suspension bobs very little under chain pull, but has slight pedal kickback.
Overall, however, the Felt would much rather be ridden downhill: The best stiffness in the test group, a thru-axle on the fork, grippy tyres and a 680 millimetre wide handlebar offer enormous control. The slack head angle and long wheelbase also ensure directional stability, while the bike remains manoeuvrable enough for tight singletrails. That's fun. The uphill, on the other hand, is tough. 14.1 kilos need to be moved. In addition, the Rock Shox "Pike" has a cumbersome lowering mechanism, which is probably only activated before long ramps, and the tyres roll slowly. A pair of tubeless tyres would fit perfectly on the "XT" system wheels. The riding position is comfortably upright, despite the rather long 100 millimetre stem.
CONCLUSIONS: The "Compulsion One" as an all-mountain poaches in enduro territory. The fun you miss out on on the climbs is made up for on the downhill sections.
TUNING TIP: Fitting tubeless tyres.
Homepage: www.felt.de
