Ghost Kato FS Base AL U

The "Kato FS Base AL U" model from the "Ghost" brand, released in 2021, is a versatile mountain bike that stands out for its solid technical specifications and attractive value for money. Priced at EUR 1,099, this bike offers a good range of features for both beginners and more experienced riders.

The frame of the Kato FS Base AL U is made from robust aluminium and is designated KATO FS AL. The braking system relies on the reliability of Shimano, featuring Shimano BR-MT200 hydraulic disc brakes and the matching Shimano BL-MT200 brake levers. At the front, braking power is supported by a Shimano SM-RT10 180 mm brake disc.

The SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed system is responsible for gear changes, enabling precise and reliable shifting. The shift levers are also from SRAM and are part of the SX Eagle series.

The bike’s suspension is provided by an SR Suntour SF14-XCR RL-R Air fork with 120 mm of travel, as well as an SR Suntour RS20 Raidon LO rear shock, also offering 120 mm of travel. This combination ensures good damping and control on uneven terrain.

The bottom bracket is an SRAM Power Spline 118/68, whilst the crankset consists of an SRAM SX Eagle 32T. The cassette is an SRAM PG-1210 with a 11–50-tooth range, offering a wide selection of gears. The drivetrain is completed by the SRAM SX Eagle system.

The bike’s handlebars are GHOST Low Rizer MTB, with a width of 760 mm, a rise of 15 mm and a diameter of 31.8 mm. The grips are by Velo and provide a good grip. The stem is also by GHOST and has a diameter of 31.8 mm.

The rims are Schürman YAK Disc, measuring 584–25 mm with 32 spoke holes. The tyres are WTB Ranger in size 27.5x2.3, which ensure good grip and stability. The hubs are by Shimano: the HB-TX505 QR 100 mm model at the front and the FH-TX505 QR 135 mm model at the rear. The spokes are by Sapim with a gauge of 2.0.

The saddle is a DDK D2373A, mounted on a GHOST SP-DC1 seatpost with a diameter of 31.6 mm. The seatpost clamp is designated GHOST XC 68 and has a diameter of 34.9 mm.

In summary, the 2021 Ghost Kato FS Base AL U offers a solid spec for both beginner and intermediate mountain bikers at a fair price of EUR 1,099. It impresses with its reliable components and robust construction, which is suitable for a variety of terrain types.