The bicycle manufacturer's bikes are fully in line with the retro trend: straightforward, with a robust steel frame and a classic look, the slim tourers are still here to stay even after a decade of intensive use. Nevertheless, modern ingredients continue to loosen up this consistently clear concept. In 2017, the Oldenburg-based company is equipping the new T-900 touring model with the Pinion C1.12 gearbox, which is as up-to-date as it is universal. With a Q-factor of just 166 millimetres (distance between cranks on the outside of the pedal thread), it is slightly more favourable biomechanically than the P-Line with 174 millimetres. The Stuttgart-based gearbox specialists have also shrunk the chainline to a standard width of 50 millimetres, and the cast magnesium housing of the C-Line is a third lighter than the milled housing of the P. This results in a weight difference of 2.35 kilos/P to 2.1 kilos/C for the 12-speed models. In terms of transmission technology, both variants are identical: 12 gears with regular jumps of around 18, and 600 per cent total gear ratio.
VSF T-900 Pinion: versatile tourer with a sporty gear
The big advantage of the C: its lower price - bikes under 3000 euros can be equipped with it. In the new T-900, the Pinion C works as comfortably as usual. As with all gearboxes, you always have to take a little pressure off the pedals to shift into easier gears. But you can do this very quickly, intuitively and without thinking. We can unreservedly recommend the 12-speed gearbox for intensive everyday use and light touring. Only for long, hard climbs and/or heavy luggage do 18 gears have clear advantages. However, the gear steps are noticeably larger than with a Rohloff hub. This should be borne in mind for those looking for maximum efficiency. The C1.12 fits perfectly into the T-900: The slim sweeper is tamed by finely controllable and powerful HS22 rim brakes; booster brackets and extra-grippy red pads pay off positively here. The red pads are somewhat softer and therefore decelerate with more definition. The boosters prevent braking power from being wasted in frame twisting. The T-900 offers a relaxed riding position, sophisticated ergonomics, efficient propulsion and smooth steering. With high-quality lighting and carrier, the bike is the ideal, modern everyday partner. For tuners, the bike can be retrofitted with belts.
The complete article "Top bikes 2017" was published in Trekkingbike issue 1/2017.
