Univega RAM AM-5Photo: Georg Grieshaber
Univega RAM AM-5
The RAM AM-5 is a full-throttle machine with cool features at an attractive price.

Univega's brand new All Mountain Plus has become a really cool dog. For 3,000 euros, it has a flashy look and features that will delight any material freak. The RAM AM-5 is fitted with the complete Crank Bros range, including the unusual wheels and the remote-controlled seat post. Although the bike feels stiff between the handlebars and saddle, it scored poorly in our stiffness test. Explanation: The flex is in the rear triangle. We were able to squeeze 160 millimetres out of the suspension on our test bench, but in practice we couldn't quite achieve this, but the rear end still feels super-soft and irons everything out. Due to the degressive characteristics, the shock needs high air pressure, otherwise it sags when pedalling and going uphill. The RAM prefers to ride downhill rather than uphill. The high weight (wheels) but also the compact riding position and the pedal kickback play a part in this. Downhill, however, you can let it fly. Schwalbe's Hans Dampf tyres stick to the ground and the transition to the limit is smooth. The bike is more fun than the verdict suggests. It loses points for paintwork, bottle cage position and warranty (only two years).


PLUS Exciting features, attractive price
MINUS High weight, no space for bottle cage


Conclusion: Full-throttle machine with cool features at an attractive price.

  The 2.35 Hans Dampf tyres are among the best you can give an all-mountain bike.Photo: Georg Grieshaber The 2.35 Hans Dampf tyres are among the best you can give an all-mountain bike.  Plenty of travel, slightly degressive rear end. The 160 mm is not utilised. Shock setup: 200 PSI at 78 kg, high pressure required.Photo: BIKE Magazin Plenty of travel, slightly degressive rear end. The 160 mm is not utilised. Shock setup: 200 PSI at 78 kg, high pressure required.

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