Simplon's revised cross-country and marathon classic Razorblade starts the 2011 season with more than just a facelift. DT's 100 millimetre XRC fork sits in the 1089 gram carbon fibre frame, which has two locking positions for fast climbers: Firstly, it lowers, and secondly, it locks completely. This lowering may make sense on steep ramps, but not on our CC race course.
The same applies to the very stretched riding position, which the testers found to be performance-limiting even on the climbs. Nevertheless, the strengths of the Razorblade clearly lie on the climbs. Downhill, the Simplon is more of a smooth-running bike, which makes it ideal for marathons. The good value in the comfort measurement, which is due to the in-house developed carbon seatpost, also fits in with this. The Acros headset with integrated stop protects the carbon fibre chassis, as does the foil on the down tube. In addition, the frame warranty can be extended from four to six years through registration.
ConclusionRevised marathon weapon with a very stretched seating position. Its strengths lie in steep and long climbs.
+ Very light bike
+ Lowerable fork
+ Comfortable frame
- Uncertainly downhill
Web: www.simplon.com
