The set-up for the first of the four stages becomes routine: start number on the handlebars, stick the altitude profile next to it, mount the speedometer, set up the suspension, check the air pressure. When you lift it up, you realise: the bike is light! This bike wants to be on the racetrack! With the lightest chassis of the comparison and a fighting weight of just under eleven kilos, you're looking forward to the 1900 metres in altitude to Lofer. You have to like the stretched seating position, size L seems long and not very manoeuvrable. The 1170 mm wheelbase is not a disadvantage on the first stage with the gravel descent from the Loferer Alm, and even on the rough, short trail section to Hallenstein it's all about length and speed for safety. When braking hard from high speeds, the frame twists noticeably. On paper, the Rotwild has the longest suspension travel, but we didn't utilise it due to the trail profile. The sensitive response in the first few centimetres of travel makes for a comfortable ride, but climbing is best in Climb mode.
Conclusion: built for the long haul. The new R.R2 FS 29 has everything you need for marathons. It also cuts a fine figure on tours.
PLUS Very light chassis, sporty geometry
MINUS Only three frame sizes, low bottom bracket, not very manoeuvrable
The alternative: The cheapest way to ride the R.R2 29 is with the Comp model, which offers DT Swiss wheels, a Shimano SLX groupset and Fox Evolution forks for € 4199.
