There's a saying: wear your fur inside. It applies to the Lux LTD. The timeless, unsuspicious look only reveals what you are dealing with here at second glance - namely pure luxury. The Lux is available in seven models from 3199 euros, and the top model 9.9 LTD for 6699 euros leaves nothing to be desired: Full carbon chassis, carbon wheels (with inner tube!) and attachments, plus Shimano's electronic XTR Di2 drivetrain with 22 gears. More is not possible. Usability is also a top priority: Chainstay protector, plate on the chainstay to prevent chain jamming, steering stop limiter, quick-release saddle clamp, double lockout. The continuous, externally routed cables and the Di2 battery located under the left chainstay may not look perfectly tidy, but they make servicing easier. After all, threading cables through the frame is not everyone's cup of tea. In terms of character, the Lux is less aggressive than some of its competitors. The geometry and riding position are sporty, but not extreme. In contrast to the competition, the rear actively filters out small bumps from the ground. If you find it too bumpy, simply lock out the RockShox suspension with your thumb (known problem: the shock only closes after repeated compression). Of course, extremely well-designed bikes like the Trek are able to pull ahead on the climbs - but are caught up again on the descents. On the difficult downhill section of the test lap, the Lux outpaces the others, looks more confident and offers a better overview and control thanks to its more relaxed riding position. The suspension also helps. Those who like to speed up on forest trails will be pleased with the 38 t chainring, although this means more frequent gear changes at the front than a 36 t chainring on the competition. The only point of criticism: the screw-in axle at the rear complicates wheel removal.
Conclusion: We immediately think of suitable terms for the Lux: Gran Turismo, marathon, super tourer. The luxuriously equipped bike is also ideal for stage races and the ambitious amateur. In terms of suspension and equipment, however, it is not the lively, aggressive World Cup machine like the Trek or the Müsing.
The alternative: The Lux starts at 3199 euros. The CF 9.9 with mechanical XTR groupset, Race Face Next cranks and RS1 fork is available for 4499 euros. The bike is said to weigh 10.9 kilos. Single drivetrain models are also available.
