Propain Rage CF: Lip Gloss Makeover: The Lake Constance downhill bike with a new paint job and suspension

The Propain Rage has bagged top marks in previous tests. So it’s just as well that the Lake Constance-based manufacturer isn’t bringing out a new model. True to the motto: why change something when what you’ve got works perfectly well?

In short: the Rage 3 CF remains essentially unchanged. Propain has been developing this downhill bike in collaboration with athletes for over 18 years and tests it on World Cup tracks.

Instead of a new frame, Propain has nevertheless given its Rage 3 CF a fresh coat of paint. The frame now shines in Strawberry Lipgloss.

It also features a new suspension system: the EXT Vaia double-bridge fork with 170 to 200 mm of travel, and the EXT Arma V4 coil shock. Both components can be selected independently of one another in the configurator.

Limited-edition Strawberry Lip Gloss

The Strawberry Lipgloss frame colour is available in limited quantities only. The colour is designed to give the Downhiller a striking look.

The fork: EXT Vaia with an upside-down design

The EXT Vaia is one of the few upside-down double-crown forks on the market. The travel can be adjusted between 170 and 200 mm. The HS3 air suspension system utilises two positive chambers and is designed to combine responsive handling with bottom-out protection. Compression and rebound damping can be adjusted independently of one another. The Cam-Stem design allows for two offsets – 44 or 48 mm – using just a single bridge.

​Test verdict on the Propain Rage 3 CF: The Propain Rage is and remains a top-class bike, whether for shredding in the park or downhill riding. It’s fast, has an excellent rear suspension and is available for a relatively low price. Click here for the Review of the Propain Rage CF 3

The damper: EXT Arma V4 with PSR system

The EXT Arma V4 Coil shock absorber utilises the position-sensitive PSR system. This technology is designed to prevent bottoming out. The frequency-sensitive HBC damping comes into play during the final 20 per cent of the suspension travel and promises progressive support. According to the manufacturer, this allows for softer springs to provide greater traction. The DLC-coated piston rod is made of chrome-molybdenum steel and is designed to minimise friction.

Configuration and availability

The frame colour and EXT chassis can be selected independently of one another in the configurator. The Strawberry Lipgloss paint finish is not linked to the EXT components. Both specification variants are available in limited quantities. Propain did not wish to reveal exactly how limited these quantities are.

In a Nutshell

• Sales: Propain Bicycles GmbH
• Material: Carbon
• Sizes: M, L, XL
• Weight excluding pedals: from 16.9 kg
• Price: 3,999 euros
• Fork: EXT Vaia Dual Crown Upside Down
• Fork travel: 170–200 mm
• Damper: EXT Arma V4 Coil
• Colour: Strawberry Lipgloss (limited edition) – you can find other colours in the Propain online configurator.

Editorial assessment

The Propain Rage 3 CF is one of the best big bikes on the market. In previous tests, we were particularly impressed by its versatility. Whether in a bike park or on a downhill track – the Rage delivers. Another cool feature is the online configurator, which offers a wide range of options for decals, brakes, tyres, suspension and much more. The new look is a success – though we can’t yet comment on the EXT suspension, as we haven’t tested it yet.
Laurin Lehner, big bike enthusiast and BIKE editor