Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt 750 on test

Christoph Listmann

 · 16.11.2015

Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt 750 on testPhoto: Georg Grieshaber
Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt 750 on test
A local from Vancouver defines a bike tour differently than a biker in the Odenwald. Touring in British Columbia means conquering single trails and root carpets.

And that's what the Thunderbolt is made for. The riding position, control (cockpit) and geometry were expressly praised by all test riders. On the trail and downhill, the Thunderbolt feels like a mountain bike should feel. In order to utilise the suspension travel, the rear should not be set too firm. Even on the difficult trails of the Lake Garda tour, you remain in control. The Maxxis tyres suit the terrain well. However, the high feel-good factor is spoilt by the bobbing of the rear triangle on the climbs. Without a platform (climb mode) on the shock, the rear end rocks - a problem with the kinematics. Unfortunately, you can't influence this on the 750 model. The Ride 9 adjustment is missing, as is the remote control for the CTD system (only from 750 MSL).


ConclusionThe Thunderbolt 750 is a mountain bike by definition. Trails are fun, the harder the better.


PLUS Five frame sizes, successful geometry, great riding fun
MINUS No telescopic support, drive influences, heavy wheels


The alternative: The Thunderbolt range extends to the XTR Di2 model, which costs 11,000 euros. The 750 MSL (4000 euros) is sensible because it is equipped with a telescopic seatpost and lighter because it has a carbon frame.

  Chain hoist compresses the undercarriage. Platform is mandatory, a remote control would be ideal. The Ride9 adjustment on the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt is only available from 4000 euros.Photo: Georg Grieshaber Chain hoist compresses the undercarriage. Platform is mandatory, a remote control would be ideal. The Ride9 adjustment on the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt is only available from 4000 euros.  Test All Mountain Sport-Fullys 2015: Rocky Moun. ThunderboltPhoto: BIKE Magazin Test All Mountain Sport-Fullys 2015: Rocky Moun. Thunderbolt  The progressive rear suspension curve is noticeable in practice. Uphill, the rear end dips heavily under load - typical Rocky Mountain.Photo: BIKE Magazin The progressive rear suspension curve is noticeable in practice. Uphill, the rear end dips heavily under load - typical Rocky Mountain.
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