German champion Markus Schulte-Lünzum regularly tickles the maximum out of the lively Raven on the racetracks of this world. Compared to the competition (except Canyon), the riding position is very compact thanks to the 606-millimetre top tube. Based on 27.5-inch wheels, the small 9-kilo hardtail is agile and lively. Focus would only have to reach into the magic box when it comes to riding comfort. Despite the flat seat stays, which look like spoilers, bumps come through hard and unsprung - even with a meagre 1.5 bar tyre pressure. On the other hand, the pitch-black Raven is also suitable for riders over 1.85 metres tall.
ConclusionThe lively Raven feels at home on narrow, winding tracks. There are better riders when it comes to comfort.
PLUS Stiff frame, internal cable routing, manoeuvrable handling
MINUS Warranty expires with racing use, not very comfortable, heavy frame, only three frame heights
The alternative For 3999 euros, you won't be riding the Team Edition. Instead, the Raven 27R 2.0 has mechanical XTR gears with a double rotor crank. The wheels are the same as on the top model.
