The Shapeshifter, a pneumatic piston for geometry and kinematics adjustment, saw the light of day. The system is still unique, but above all it impressed us on our test ride. Even if switching between the modes is sometimes like an exercise in coordination, the slightly more front-heavy riding position and the firmer rear end clearly help when climbing. In the Strive's climbing mode, the platform lever on the shock becomes superfluous. At the trail entrance, we change the riding mode again. The steering angle becomes 0.7 degrees slacker, the bottom bracket drops seven millimetres and the rear suspension then offers a usable 170 millimetres of travel. The rather linear suspension blossoms on the root carpets of the race track. The potent Rock Shox suspension elements eliminate all bumps. Both on fast straights and in winding undergrowth, the Enduro feels right at home and gives the rider a lot of confidence.
Conclusion: an innovative bike, even in the upcoming third model year. The Shapeshifter combines touring capability and downhill fun. Long reach!
The alternative: The Strive AL 7.0 has a shorter geometry and is better suited for touring with two chainrings.
