However, only the more simply equipped Pro with the "36 Float R" was available for testing. The lightweight and high-quality frame keeps the total weight of the bike to 15 kilos. The Geo with its steep seat angle and moderately long top tube pedals well uphill. This means that even tours with a lot of vertical metres are no problem. We did not miss a fork drop. The rear suspension is completely neutralised with the platform lever on the shock.
In downhill mode, we really liked the geometry of the Rotwild. The not too slack 66 mm head angle and the short chainstays make the bike easy to handle. Thanks to the low centre of gravity and the plush rear end, it still feels secure. A good mix that tends towards the "Enduro Evo". The weak point of the "R.G1" is clearly the fork. The simple damping of the R version cannot even begin to keep up with the very potent rear end. While the "Float X" absorbs everything at the rear and provides very good traction, the fork is either stubborn on fast hits or it dives too quickly through the centre travel when braking and compressing. We couldn't get a good balance with the rear end. That's a shame, because otherwise Rotwild has done everything right with this very versatile all-rounder. The handlebar, which was too narrow on the pre-production bike, will be a sensible 780 millimetres wide in series production - you can always shorten it.
Conclusion: With its good geo, great handling and plush rear end, the Rotwild is actually one of our favourites. With super brakes, a wide gear ratio and a really good telescopic seatpost, it's well equipped. The weak fork prevents a 10th place.
This test was published in FREERIDE issue 2/2014.
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