The "Torque" was also not a winner at the first attempt in 2006. Then Lutz Scheffer revised the rear triangle and geometry for 2007. The equipment was also adapted and all the testers were delighted. For 2008, the winning bike from the last test has now been carefully developed further, but the proven geometry has been retained. There is now a "Maxle" axle in the rear triangle, the cable routing has been optimised and the equipment is somewhat lighter, and thus even more consistently geared towards the super enduro niche. The front suspension is a Fox "Van" and the DT Swiss "2350" wheels are designed to withstand even the toughest bike park use. Together with the Formula "One" brakes, which decelerate very well, the "Torque" is still right up there with the best downhill bikes. The fork works smoothly and agilely, as does the rear triangle - if it is precisely tuned. 10 PSI makes a big difference with the "Evolver" damper: a little too little and it sags in the middle range, a little too much and you don't utilise the full suspension travel. But with the correct setting, the bike is extremely composed, agile and always easy to control - great. Uphill it loses performance due to the non-drop fork, but the good propulsion on the trail is still there.
CONCLUSIONThe "Torque" also does everything right in 2008. The equipment is perfect. For us, the epitome of the lightweight freerider.
RemarkThe eye goes along for the ride: The classy look matches the solid driving characteristics of the "Torque". Great brakes!
FREERIDE RANKING: maximum 10 points.
