In addition to the longer, slacker and lower trim and a steeper seat angle, the chainstays on the Propain Spindrift AL have also been shortened - for more playfulness. The Lake Constance-based company sent its aluminium Spindrift into the race with 29-inch tyres. Strange, since Propain also offers the bike as a mullet and 27.5-inch version. Every bike enthusiast's eyes light up when choosing the equipment. Thanks to the online configurator, customers can choose their own shock, fork, drive, etc. in addition to the predefined models. At 3674 euros, Propain once again failed to meet our price limit (!).
The Propain Spindrift positions the rider low on the bike, the suspension boasts great grip. We felt it straight away: fat bike! Due to the downhill geometry, it needs more traction. Especially on undulating sections, fast corner changes and spontaneous jumps. When the trail tilts into a vertical position, the Spindrift reveals its true intentions: ride fast downhill! The front and rear harmonise perfectly, and the suspension develops massive comfort and traction. It really tempts the rider to take their hands off the Formula brakes. "By far the fastest and most confident bike," summarised one tester. The other side of the coin: the Propain Spindrift reacts more sluggishly on jumps than the Canyon and Specialized, and the rider also has to give the bike the spurs when cornering. Uphills are okay, also thanks to the steep seat tube.
StrengthsChassis, geo, price/performance
Weaknesses: Less playful, over 300 euros more expensive than competitor bikes
Test summary of the Propain Spindrift AL Custom:
The Spindrift is the most confident freerider in the test. The bike offers a harmonious overall package with a preference for downhill riding. The suspension works flawlessly. However, the Spindrift lacks a bit of playfulness.
You can download the entire test with all data and grades download here.
Other Spindrift models in the check:
Technical data Propain Spindrift AL Custom:
General information
- Price: 3674 Euro
- more info about Propain
- Material / Sizes: Aluminium / tested in size M, L, XL
Measurement data
- Weight: 16.4 kg
- Front / rear suspension travel: 180 mm / 180 mm
- Rear suspension system: VPP
- Reach: 443 mm
- Stack: 643 mm
- BB drop: -28 mm
Equipment
- Fork / shock: Rockshox ZEB Select+ / RS Super Deluxe Select Coil (400 lbs)
- Cranks / gears: Truvativ Descendant Eagle/ Sram GX Eagle
- Brake system: Formula Cura 4
- Wheels: Newmen Performance 30 system wheelset
- Tyres: Maxxis Assegai 3C MaxxGrip Exo+ 2.5, Minion DHR II 3C MaxxTerra DD 2.4
All freeride bike tests can be downloaded here: Test freeride bikes 2022 (FREERIDE 2/2022)
Laurin Lehner
Editor
