Genze also had a hand in the Backfire as an engineer. The 1242 gram frame goes its own way in terms of design language, relying on classic race geometry and proven components. At racing speed, the Backfire feels like you're in the driver's seat of a racing car: the rear end transmits unfiltered bumps to the rider. Not for the faint-hearted. The smooth-running 29er can be tamed with precise manoeuvres on the wide, deep cockpit when bumping over roots and stones. If you miss a braking point, the thoroughbred racer won't throw you off immediately. This is because the XTR stoppers are powerful, but allow for controlled braking.
Conclusion: Thanks to a successful mix of components and classic race geometry, the Backfire leaves nothing to be desired.
PLUS Lightweight wheels (even with tubes), powerful and easy to modulate brakes, sporty geometry, fair price
MINUS Little comfort noticeable
The alternative More agile, reasonably equipped and significantly cheaper: The Backfire Carbon 3000 with XT gears and Fox 32 fork is available for a fair € 2999. Either in 27.5 inches or as a 29er.
