The equipment list is endlessly long, the model variants of the new Freejack concept from Hoya in Lower Saxony comprises eight pages: Turn one into four - the tempting idea of packaging a frame/fork set that has been consistently thought through and equipped with maximum versatility into four independent models makes sensible use of resources and provides the specialist dealer with a platform from a single source that can cover a good 60% of the best-selling bike types.
The "normal" Freejack is a fully StVO-equipped everyday bike.
The Freejack Scrambler as a tourer with derailleur or hub gears through to Rohloff, the Freejack Cross a reduced, sporty derailleur for light off-road use, and finally the lightweight Speed for sporty commuters and tourers.
You can choose from 13 derailleur gears with 1x10, 1x11 or 2x11 gearing as well as Nexus, Alfine or Rohloff hubs with chain or Gates drive. There is a choice of 15 powder colours and a wide range of other options for lights, saddle, handlebars and grips. Pure horror for the indecisive! The dealer guides you through the jungle, the customer pays favourable prices and always has the option of retrofitting.
We were able to test the theory on the "Speed" touring bike:
The frame is cleanly finished, the many options are cleverly and visually not too obtrusive. The Speed places its rider in a sporty position, with a slight stretch and the saddle at handlebar level. The smooth steering is striking, giving the 12-kilo bike a playful character. The Freejack feels good in the hand and is equally good on the throttle: light wheels, tyres and a crisp Deore 1x10 drivetrain provide for powerful propulsion. The gearing is designed to be light, and the heaviest gear is used even on flat terrain with a light tailwind. High-quality Magura discs successfully slow you down if your temper gets the better of you. Lightweight but somewhat narrow aluminium plates, a solid Racktime brand rack with Snap It system for basket or bags and the discreet but very bright battery-powered lighting system from Busch & Müller create practical added value for everyday use. Seen in this light, the Freejack really makes you want to get to know its other brothers.
The complete article was published in Trekkingbike issue 1/2018. You can download the issue in the MYBIKE app (iTunes and Google Play ) or in the DK-Shop order.
