To get straight to the point: The MTB Cycletech Papalagi purred along without the slightest problem on the demanding pannier tour. We passed through all climate zones - from constant showers in the rainforest, to 20 per cent gradients in the Alpine Range, more than 400 kilometres of gravel tracks and the finest salt spray along the wild and sandy coast. The steel wheel didn't require more than a little chain maintenance.
The riding position was immediately pleasantly sporty - ideal for stages of over 100 kilometres. The cockpit is not oversized with the 60 cm wide handlebars and, in conjunction with the tapered rigid fork, always ensures optimum control. We confidently manoeuvred the loaded bike even on short mountain bike sections through loose gravel. The many years of experience of the Swiss MTB-Cycletech development crew is noticeably realised here.
For 30 years now, the Papalagi has been the first choice for many demanding touring cyclists.
For the 2017 model year, the classic was given a fundamental facelift. 27.5-inch wheels are the new standard for mountain bikes and will probably also characterise the touring bike scene in the future. They score points with smoother running and better rollover characteristics, but still remain compact in terms of dimensions. State-of-the-art manufacturing techniques have been incorporated into the classic Reynolds 853 steel frame. A new tapered rigid fork and the carrier integrated as part of the frame increase rigidity and riding safety while guaranteeing an extremely long service life. It should not be necessary to replace more than the wearing parts, such as the drive unit, tyres or grips, on this bike within the next ten years.
We chose the new, lightweight Shimano XT trekking bike groupset for the equipment. It offers the wide range of a 3x10 drivetrain. Thanks to the slim Schadow rear derailleur, the bike is also easier to pack. The performance was unobtrusively good. Pleasant: the new 3-finger brake levers. The 160 disc brakes also left a secure feeling with a total weight of just under 120 kilos. The bike is available in many customised versions.
The full article was published in Trekkingbike issue 2/2017.
