With its hydroformed aluminium frame, Radon's new marathon full-suspension bike takes on the carbon competition. And with success. The Skeen, designed by Bodo Probst, lined up dutifully and inconspicuously in the row of test bikes to gradually win over all the riders. Although the frame with shock weighs in at a hefty 2.6 kilos (penultimate place), mail-order company Radon pulls out all the stops when it comes to equipment and puts the third-lightest bike on the easy-to-accelerate Tune wheels.
While the lightweight DT Swiss carbon shock feels out of place on many bikes, it guarantees a very balanced chassis on the Skeen in combination with the potent 120 mm Fox fork. The rear suspension works sensitively, does not sag, has no noticeable drive influences and remains extremely smooth even when pedalling. The package is rounded off by a successful riding position and a smooth 69 mm steering angle with a steep, climb-friendly seat angle. A 36 sprocket, fork lockout and perhaps slightly wider handlebars would extend the already wide range of applications of the bike even further.
CONCLUSIONBig surprise: Despite its heavy aluminium frame, the new Radon Skeen wins the test thanks to its great riding characteristics, suspension and equipment. A bike with a wide range of uses.
Web: www.radon-bikes.de
