One has to be enough. One chainring, that's all you need on the Epic Worldcup. A front derailleur is not included in the frame design. Instead, there are fat, short chainstays for powerful acceleration without twisting. No other bike is so uncompromisingly trimmed for one area of use. The super-light frame is cleverly designed down to the last detail, covered with protective film, fitted with aluminium bolts and designed for two bottle cages. The red racing stripe even extends over the seat post. You want to be called Sauser or Kulhavy to get this bike as a company vehicle. Everyone else has to dig deep into their pockets.
On the test lap, the lactate floods your whole body, even your arms. You constantly want to pedal in the cradle, accelerate the Epic further, because this feeling is so unique. Head low on the climbs, pistons pounding, full throttle towards the finish line, just like Kulhavy. You can't feel any difference to the hardtail - it doesn't get any faster. The Brain suspension works as it should: sporty and firm, opening up immediately on hits. Downhill, the Epic Worldcup requires an experienced rider who can handle the stretched riding position. We would swap the 100 mm stem for a shorter one. The bike leaves no room for jokes.
Conclusion It couldn't be more consistent. The Epic Worldcup is an absolutely specialised machine for a precisely defined target group. A very expensive but super-fast pleasure.
PLUS 34 and 32 chainring supplied, two bottle cages possible, very light wheels, incredibly fast bike
MINUS Screw axle rear, 100 mm stem costs control
The alternative
The Epic S-Works is also available in a more civilised version with a double crank and 100 millimetres of suspension travel for 8499 euros or in the Epic Marathon version for 5999 euros (Test in BIKE 10/13 ->, 128 points).
