The Ravensburg-based company VPACE is presenting new children's mountain bikes in the form of the Matz and Moritz model series. With their geometry, larger wheels and specially adapted kinematics, the bikes are intended to create a new class for youngsters. VPACE relies on high-end components and is orientated towards technologies from the adult sector. Brands such as Manitou, Sram, Fox and Magura are used.
From VPACE Max to Matz
The history of the current Matz model began back in 2015 under the name Max. It was the first mountain bike from VPACE to be developed specifically for sporty trail use and the anatomical needs of children. The name change from Max to Matz was due to a trademark conflict. VPACE emphasises that the specifications, quality and price of the model have not changed - only the name on the frame had to be adapted.
Customised geometry and ergonomics
The geometry of the Matz and Moritz models is characterised by a low bottom bracket, short chainstays, long reach and flat steering angle. The ergonomics have been specially designed for children. This includes small, lightweight saddles, special brake levers and pedalling cranks with a low Q-factor. The suspension forks should respond sensitively even with a low rider weight. VPACE states that this interaction should offer more stability at high speeds, better handling in technical terrain and optimum weight distribution for a central riding position.
VPACE Matz: the hardtail MTB for children
The Matz model is designed as a lightweight hardtail. VPACE transfers the 29er principle to children from a height of 105 centimetres. The shorter rear triangle is designed to make the frame particularly agile and ensure ideal weight transfer. According to the manufacturer, a steeper seat angle enables ergonomic cranking, while the shortened top tube and head tube lengths should make handling easier. The Matz models are available in various sizes, from the Matz20 for children from 105 centimetres to the Matz29L for body heights up to 170 centimetres.
All models correspond to category 3 and are designed for trails, rugged terrain and difficult routes with demanding riding techniques. Jumps and drops of up to 60 centimetres are possible according to VPACE.
VPACE Moritz: Full-suspension children's trail bike
In addition to the Matz hardtail, VPACE also offers Moritz, a full-suspension children's mountain bike. It is designed for trail riding, demanding tours and enduro races. The larger wheels are designed to roll over roots and rocks more easily, while riding stability should be maintained even on fast descents. VPACE states that the low weight should also ensure agility uphill. The Moritz models belong to category 3 up to 24 inches and to category 4 from 26'' upwards.
Equipment and components
VPACE relies on high-quality components for the equipment. The Moritz26 is equipped with Magura MT4 brakes. Suspension is provided by a Manitou Junit Expert suspension fork specially developed for children and a Mara shock. The larger Moritz275 uses a Fox 34 Performance fork with 140 millimetres of suspension travel. A Fox Performance Float EVOL SV shock with 130 millimetres of travel is used on the rear triangle. Other features of the Moritz275 include a dropper seatpost, a Sram Eagle 12-speed drivetrain and Magura MT Trail 4-piston brakes. The cranks have a Q-factor of 150 millimetres on the VPACE models.
Model variants and prices
The VPACE Matz models are available for children from 105 centimetres (Matz20) to 170 centimetres (Matz29L) tall. The weight starts at 7.2 kilograms for the Matz20 with carbon fork. Prices start at 1099 euros.
The VPACE Moritz range covers heights from around 120 centimetres (Moritz20) to 165 centimetres (Moritz275L). The weight is 9.5 kilograms for the Moritz20 and 12.7 kilograms for the Moritz275 including dropper seat post. Prices start at 1799 euros.
Technical specifications at a glance
Matz models
- Category: 3
- Range of use: Trail and cross-country
- Wheel sizes: 20 inch to 29 inch
- Height: 105 cm to 170 cm
- Weight: from 7.2 kg (Matz20 with carbon fork)
- Price: from 1099 Euro
Moritz models
- Category: 3 (up to 24 inches), 4 (from 26 inches)
- Application: Trail Enduro
- Wheel sizes: 20 inch to 27.5 inch
- Height: 120 cm to 165 cm
- Weight: from 9.5 kg (Moritz20), 12.7 kg (Moritz275 incl. dropper)
- Price: from 1799 Euro
Marc Strucken
Editor
