Many bikes will be cheaper again in 2018! What sounds like a chorus of angels to bikers' ears is likely to bring beads of sweat to the foreheads of bargain hunters. Anyone who has waited all year to buy a bike in order to get their dream bike at a low price during the sales will have to look very carefully this year. Because last year's reduced models are often only slightly cheaper than their successors, which are already waiting in the manufacturers' warehouses. How is it that prices are suddenly tumbling after the industry has been digging deeper and deeper into consumers' pockets in recent years? Many manufacturers have radically streamlined their model ranges in order to make it easier for customers to keep an overview and for themselves to keep stock. Cube, for example, has redeveloped the Stereos 140 frame for 2018 and now only offers three models to choose from. In 2017, the Upper Palatinate company still had five bikes with 140 millimetres of travel and 27.5-inch wheels in its catalogue. Although you now have to make do with an aluminium rear triangle on the carbon models, you save around 300 euros. This is a pleasing trend, which, although not across the board, can be seen at numerous manufacturers. Industry insiders rumour that the lower prices could also have something to do with a change in production locations. Some companies are turning their backs on established factories in China and building new plants in Cambodia or Vietnam, for example. The advantage: lower labour costs and possibly lower anti-dumping duties. This makes some bikes cheaper.
If you search long enough in the vastness of the internet or at various dealers, you will still find good offers. Because bike manufacturers only develop a new frame every three to four years, discontinued models such as the Scott Scale (which only got a new frame last year) are particularly recommended. The only thing that varies here is the equipment. The frame, geometry and axle standards have not changed for 2018. Even if the Boost standard (148 millimetre rear wheel axle) does not offer any real technical advantage on many bikes, you should still make sure that the bike of your choice has all the latest standards during the sale. Bikes with a conventional 142 millimetre rear wheel axle are already difficult to sell on the second-hand market.
If you decide in favour of a 2017 model despite all the circumstances, we can't keep another piece of bad news from you: The big discount battle that took place in 2016, with price reductions of 20 to 30 per cent on the entire product range, is no longer available this year.
The bargains that are really worth plundering your household budget for before Christmas are few and far between in 2017 and are often no longer available in all frame sizes. It looks like retailers have ordered slightly less stock in 2017 and are therefore not under any pressure to get rid of the bikes from the current model year, even towards the end of the season. We took a look at five exciting fullys and hardtails from the 2017 season and their successors for 2018. Is it worth grabbing a bargain? Or is the new 2018 bike perhaps the better choice after all?
5 tips for buying a bike
Compare prices online: Even if you want to buy a bike from a specialist dealer, it's worth taking a look online. If a bike is drastically reduced there by several suppliers, the stationary dealer must also reduce the price. However, not every dealer can take part in extreme discount campaigns of up to 40 per cent.
Be flexible: The bikes are usually only reduced when there is only a certain amount of stock left. This means that often not every colour variant in every size is still in stock. If you want to get a bargain, you have to take what is still in the shop.
It depends on the size: Especially small or particularly large riders usually have a better chance of finding a bargain. While bikes in sizes M and L sell out quickly, bikes in frame sizes XS or XL are often shelf warmers. In this case, dealers are more willing to offer discounts.
Treat yourself: The more expensive the bikes are, the more discount dealers usually give. Bargain hunters should therefore take a look at the bikes above their own price limit. With the right percentages, the bikes of your dreams are within reach.
Buy second-hand: If you really can't find what you're looking for at the dealer, browse the second-hand market. Bikers often sell relatively new bikes at good prices. However, the warranty will then be void.
You can read this article or the entire BIKE 12/2017 issue in the BIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or buy the issue in the DK shop reorder:
HARDTAILS
The entry-level hardtails are often sold out towards the end of the season and are also rarely discounted. If you want to find a real bargain, you have to look among the high-priced race bikes.
ENTRY-LEVEL HARDTAIL UP TO 1300 EURO
Old model: Cube LTD Race
In 2017, the cheapest aluminium bikes from Cube still had the name Limited. In past comparison tests, the frame was relatively heavy. With the exception of the tyres, the equipment is almost unique in this price range.
Equipment Shimano XT 2x11 gears and brakes; Rockshox Recon fork
Price 1299 Euro
Attention: Available with 27.5 and 29-inch wheels
New model: Cube Reaction Race
For the coming season, Cube is not only giving its aluminium hardtails a new name, but also a completely redesigned frame, which should now also be competitive in terms of weight. The geometry will be sportier (longer reach and slacker head angle).
Equipment Sram GX Eagle 1x12 drivetrain; Shimano Deore brakes; Rockshox Judy Silver fork
Price 1299 Euro
Available As of now
Stefan Loibl, BIKE test editor: The changes to Cube's entry-level hardtails are so big that I would definitely go for the new 2018 model. What's more, the discounts on the discontinued model are limited. There is just eight per cent off the 2017 bike online.
Old model: Radon ZR Race 29 6.0
Radon's entry-level hardtail has proven itself time and again in past tests and is really attractive thanks to a 200 euro discount in the sale. The discontinued model has no thru axles and is therefore more suitable for light riders. Otherwise, there is little to criticise.
Equipment Shimano XT/SLX 2x11 gears; Magura MT2 brakes; Fox 32 performance fork
Price 1299 Euro
Price reduced* 1099 Euro
New model: Jealous AL
In 2018, Radon is giving its affordable hardtails a new aluminium frame that is strongly oriented towards the carbon hardtail in terms of looks and geometry. Boost standard, thru axles and a lower frame weight should make the Jealous AL particularly attractive for beginners.
Equipment Shimano XT/SLX 2x11 gears; Magura MT2 brakes; Rockshox Judy fork
Price 1299 Euro
Available From March 2018
Peter Nilges, BIKE Test Manager: Even though the current ZR Race is heavily discounted, I believe that the new model is worth waiting for. With the current axle standards and the supposedly lighter frame, you are simply better equipped for the future.
HARDTAIL UP TO 2000 EURO
Old model: Ghost Lector 5 LC
The striking tube shapes make the Lector's frame almost a design object. In this price range, you have to search a long time for such an attractive frame. Since Ghost switched to the Boost axle size, the Lector frame has performed very well in tests.
Equipment Sram XO 1x11 drivetrain; Sram Guide R brakes; Rockshox Reba RL fork
Price 1999 Euro
Price reduced* 1699 Euro
New model: Ghost Lector 3.9 LC
The frame remains untouched for 2018, but otherwise Ghost is changing the entire spec for the coming season. The 2x11 drivetrain gives the hardtail a wider range of use, and the Shimano brakes are known for their easy handling.
Equipment Shimano XT 2x11 gears, Shimano BRM 365 brakes; Fox 32 Rhythem fork
Price 1999 Euro
Available as of now
Ludwig Döhl, BIKE test editor: With these two bikes, it is a matter of taste whether you opt for the purist predecessor or the successor model designed for touring. The 2017 model is offered ten to 15 per cent cheaper online.
HARDTAIL UP TO 3000 EURO
Old model: Scott Scale 920
In 2016, the Scale, disguised as a prototype, rode its first laps in the World Cup before rolling into the shops for the 2017 season. In past tests, the handling was extremely playful and not only provided propulsion, but also a lot of fun on the trails.
Equipment Shimano SLX 2x11 gears and brakes; Fox 32 Performance fork
Price 2999 Euro
Price reduced* 2199 Euro
New model: Scott Scale 920
The successor is so similar to the 2017 scale model that you have to look for the differences. The frame remains unchanged, the paintwork varies only slightly and the price is 200 euros cheaper. Another alternative: the Scale 925 for 2499 euros with Srams 1x12 drivetrain.
Equipment Shimano XT 2x11 gears, Shimano SLX brakes; Fox 32 Rhythm fork
Price 2799 Euro
Available as of now
Peter Nilges, BIKE Test Manager: In view of the € 800 discount that is sometimes offered online and the minor changes, the 2017 Scott Scale 920 is a real bargain. If you don't buy one, it's your own fault.
RACING MACHINE WITHOUT PRICE LIMIT
Old model: Cannondale FSI Carbon 2
Feel like Mani Fumic for once, or at least ride the same bike as him. With lightweight carbon rims and the in-house Lefty fork, the FSI Carbon 2 cuts a fine figure at every starting line. The carbon frame with its sporty geometry has already proven itself since 2015.
Equipment Shimano XTR 1x11 drivetrain; Magura MT Race brakes; Cannondale Lefty 2.0 fork
Price 5299 Euro
Price reduced* 3199 Euro
New model: Cannondale FSI Carbon 2
Apart from the colour, nothing changes on the FSI frame for 2018. The blue and yellow colours will be replaced by frog green in the coming season, while the Shimano drivetrain will make way for a slightly more modern 1x12 drivetrain from Sram. The carbon rims remain, despite the price reduction.
Equipment Sram XO Eagle 1x12 drivetrain; Sram Level TL brakes; Cannondale Lefty 2.0 fork
Price 4299 Euro
Available as of now
Ludwig Döhl, BIKE test editor: In some shops, the 2017 model is reduced by 40 per cent! Although Cannondale has reduced the price of the 2018 model by 1000 euros ex works, it is still worth buying the discontinued model with these discounts.
The picture always shows the bike that we recommend. This means that both 2017 and 2018 bikes are shown. *The reduced price always refers to a search by BIKE in specialist shops and online and is not a binding offer. Retail prices may differ from this.
FULLYS
Many manufacturers are giving their fullys a new frame for 2018. It's often worth waiting for the new models. Sometimes, however, the bargains that can be snapped up by changing models are simply irresistible.
MARATHON-FULLY (100 MILLIMETRES)
Old model: Specialized Epic FSR Comp Carbon
The Epic is a marathon classic. The comfort-orientated geometry and the automatic lockout have helped professionals to win the Cape Epic several times and have also accompanied many amateur athletes over the long distance.
Equipment Shimano SLX 2x11 drivetrain; Shimano M506 brakes; Rockshox Reba RL Brain fork; Fox Brain rear shock
Price 3699 Euro
Price reduced* 3099 Euro
New model: Specialised Men's Epic Comp Carbon
We have already convinced ourselves of the capabilities of the 2018 Epic during an initial test. The Brain shock works even more sensitively. The geometry is slightly sportier with a slightly longer main frame.
Equipment Sram GX 1x11 drivetrain; Sram Level TL brakes; Rockshox Reba RL fork; Rockshox Micro Brain rear shock
Price 3999 Euro
Available as of now
Ludwig Döhl, BIKE test editor: Both the old and the new Epic are very good bikes. However, the 2x11 SLX drivetrain on the 2017 model puts a lot of weight on the bike. If every position in the marathon is at stake, I would go for the 2018 model.
TRAILBIKE (120 MILLIMETRES)
Old model: Canyon Neuron 9.0 AL LTD
Canyon exclusively reduces the Neuron with 27.5-inch wheels. With its comfort-orientated geometry, it is the perfect partner for long tours or Alpine crossings.
Equipment Shimano XTR 2x11 drivetrain and brakes; Fox 34 Float Factory fork and Factory DPS shock
Price 3999 Euro
Price reduced* 3399 Euro
Attention Only available in XS, S and M.
New model: Canyon Neuron 9.9 AL LTD
Never change a running system! The equipment remains the same in 2018. The biggest difference: sizes XS to M are now only available with 27.5-inch wheels. Sizes M to XL are still available with 29" wheels.
Equipment Shimano XTR 2x11 drivetrain and brakes; Fox 34 Float Factory fork and Factory DPS shock
Price 3999 Euro
Available as of now
Ludwig Döhl, BIKE test editor: If you can ride frame sizes XS to M and like 27.5-inch wheels, you should definitely go for the discontinued model. It's hard to find a better bargain in the sale without compromising on equipment.
TRAILBIKE (120 MILLIMETRES)
Old model: Focus Spine
For a long time, the Spine was a successful touring bike with 120 millimetres of travel and 27.5-inch wheels. The powerful rear triangle ensured that the carbon bike was also great fun on single trails. The Spine will no longer be produced from 2018.
Equipment Shimano XT 2x11 gears and brakes; Fox 32 Performance fork and Performance shock absorber
Price 3999 Euro
Price reduced* 2199 Euro
New model: Focus Jam C Pro 29
As a replacement for the Spine, customers in this price range can only opt for the Jam with 29-inch wheels and 130 millimetres of travel. The large wheels and the 34 mm fork certainly put a little more weight on the bike than its predecessor.
Equipment Shimano XT 2x11 gears and brakes; Fox 34 Performance fork and Performance shock absorber
Price 3699 Euro
Available From Dec. 2017
Stefan Loibl, BIKE test editor:
Focus does not offer a real replacement for the Spine. Anyone looking for a lightweight touring bike with a powerful rear triangle will be happy with the 2017 model. Especially as the prices online are extremely attractive. The Jam 29 from 2018 will definitely be more downhill orientated.
ALL MOUNTAIN (140 MILLIMETRES)
Old model: Cube Stereo 140 C62 Race
The carbon Stereo 140 is a classic that even won an EWS race under the leadership of the Action Team. The riding position of the all-mountain bike is rather comfortable and, like the rest of the equipment, designed for long tours.
Equipment Shimano XT 2x11 gears and brakes; Fox 34 Float fork and DPS damper
Price 3299 Euro
Price reduced* 2599 Euro
New model: Cube Stereo 140 HPC SL
The new main frame is still made of carbon, but aluminium will be used on the rear triangle in 2018. The longer and flatter geometry should improve downhill handling, while the new tube shapes provide a fresh look. The equipment remains almost the same.
Equipment Shimano XT 2x11 gears and brakes; Fox 34 Float fork and DPS damper
Price 2999 Euro
Available from April 2018
Peter Nilges, BIKE Test Manager:
You'll have to be patient until the new Stereo 140 hits the shops, but it's worth it. The new frame and improved geometry sound promising. In addition, the ex-works price has been reduced by 300 euros.
ENDURO (160 MILLIMETRES)
Old model: Giant Reign Advanced 1
Long wheelbase, slack head angle: Giant recognised the trend towards modern geometry early on and, in combination with the proven Maestro rear triangle, put a first-class bike on the wheels for tough enduro use.
Equipment Shimano XT 1x11 gears and brakes; Fox 36 Performance Elite fork and Fox Performance X2 damper
Price 4999 Euro
Price reduced* 3499 Euro
New model: Giant Reign Advanced 1
The new Reign is even longer and even slacker. The geometry is clearly trimmed for enduro racing use. The playfulness is likely to suffer somewhat, even if the Maestro rear triangle continues to provide a lively chassis in the new version.
Equipment Sram GX Eagle 1x12 drivetrain; Sram Guide RS brakes; Fox 36 Perform. Elite fork; Fox Perform. DPX2 shock
Price 4999 Euro
Available From Dec. 2017
Peter Nilges, BIKE Test Manager:
The geometry of the new Giant Reigns is even more extreme and is therefore probably no longer everyone's cup of tea. The discontinued model has been greatly reduced, has often proven itself in past tests and costs up to 1500 euros less. Top.
The picture always shows the bike that we recommend. This means that both 2017 and 2018 bikes are shown. *The reduced price always refers to a search by BIKE in specialist shops and online and is not a binding offer. Retail prices may differ from this.
You can read this article or the entire BIKE 12/2017 issue in the BIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or buy the issue in the DK shop reorder:
