KTM Ultra Fire 29 on test

Florentin Vesenbeckh

 · 09.09.2017

KTM Ultra Fire 29 on testPhoto: Georg Grieshaber
KTM Ultra Fire 29 on test
The pure data of the KTM does not suggest any leaps of joy: high weight, long chainstays, high bottom bracket. However, after the first few metres in the saddle, the 29er is extremely balanced.

The frame and wheels are the heaviest in the test field, but despite the high weight, the forward and climbing propulsion is decent, thanks to the good Continental tyres and the mountain-compatible ten-speed gear ratio. The riding position is neither overly upright nor stretched: a comfortable average position, predestined for beginners. Downhill, the Ultra Fire 29 provides confidence and impresses with balanced handling, but the steel suspension fork without adjustable rebound limits the urge to hit the trails. The Suntour XCM Coil is also the heaviest in the test field. The complete ten-speed Deore drivetrain, on the other hand, stands out favourably in the group comparison. The Continental tyres also impressed on the test lap with good rolling characteristics and decent grip.


Conclusionbalanced all-rounder with harmonious geometry, unfortunately very heavy.


PLUS Geometry, good tyres, 10-speed
MINUS Weak fork, high weight

  KTM Ultra Fire 29Photo: BIKE Magazin KTM Ultra Fire 29  KTM Ultra Fire 29Photo: BIKE Magazin KTM Ultra Fire 29


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Florentin Vesenbeckh has been on a mountain bike since he was ten years old. Even on his very first tour, he focussed on single trails - and even after more than 30 years in the saddle of an MTB, these are still the quintessence of biking for him. He spent his youth competing in various bike disciplines and later his cycling career was characterised by years as a riding technique coach. Professionally, the experienced test editor now focusses on e-mountainbikes. In recent years, the qualified sports scientist and trained journalist has tested over 300 bikes and more than 40 different motor systems in the laboratory and in practice.

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