When it comes to carbon, Simplon is one of the most innovative companies on the market. The Dozer all-mountain model presented in 2009 is getting a facelift in 2010. The new carbon rear triangle (from the AM-2 model onwards) makes the bike lighter and, together with the revised kinematics, more drive-neutral. The Fox Talas fork with QR15 thru-axle, tapered head tube and three suspension travels is still the perfect match.
In terms of weight, the package is impressive in view of the wide range of applications on offer: 11.8 kilos with pedals. The chassis weight (2650 grams with shock) is also impressive. The overall stiffness (63 Nm/degree) missed the value of the predecessor (87 Nm/degree) in our lab, which is clearly due to the carbon rear triangle. The equipment can be customised at Simplon, the test bike is of a high standard in line with the 4699 euro price tag, although the Twister twist grip shifters seem rather out of place on an all-mountain bike. And some riders would like wider tyres than the 2.25-inch Nobby Nic tyres fitted.
On the test ride, the revised VPP rear suspension system feels much more effective than before, and in the Igorion calculation it scores full points in the bobbing criterion. The shock needs a lot of air pressure, the SAG indicator on the seat tube makes tuning easier. Sporty riders set the rear to minimum SAG (approx. 18 bar at 80 kg), this setup bridges the gap to the marathon category. The riding position is also labelled sporty and comfortable.
ConclusionThe Dozer covers a wide range of applications with plenty of suspension travel and low weight. Even marathons are possible.
Web: www.simplon.com
