The Dartmoor Rocbird is the latest addition to the Polish bike brand's line-up, even though many will think of the world-famous hilly landscape in England when they hear the name Dartmoor. From the gravity-heavy product range of Dartmoor bikes, we have already tested the super enduro Thunderbird and the trail hardtail Primal.
At 4199 euros, the Dartmoor Rocbird marks the top end of this enduro test and costs 700 euros more than, for example, the YT or the Marin Alpine Trail . Considering the price, however, the equipment is quite impressive. The bike has a slim aluminium frame with a Fox Factory Float X2 shock and a 36 mm fork with a Grip 2 cartridge.
The Poles have also gone the extra mile with the gears and brakes, fitting a Shimano SLX to the bike: functional and durable. Only the wheels can't quite keep up, even if the hubs with their oilslick finish at least look good. Why a Maxxis in 3C compound is only specified on the rear wheel raises questions. We would also have preferred a softer rubber compound at the front. There are no frame features such as a flip chip or a storage compartment solution on the Rocbird.
Just like the Radon, this bike relies on a slightly shorter fork with 160 millimetres of travel and slimmer stanchions. This saves some weight, but results in minimal compromises in terms of absorption capacity and stiffness compared to the thicker calibres with 38 mm stanchions.
Features Dartmoor Rocbird Pro
- Fork: Fox 36 Grip 2 Factory
- Shock: Fox Float X2 Factory
- Gear system: Shimano SLX, 1x12
- Gear ratio / bandwidth: 32; 10-51 / 510 %
- Brakes: Shimano SLX 203/203 mm
- dropper post/stroke: X-Fusion Manic / 170 mm
- Wheels: Dartmoor Thunder/Reel Expert
- Tyres: Maxxis Assegai Exo 29/27.5 x 2.5
Measured values
- Total weight: 16.00 kg (without pedals)
- Weight of wheels: 5565 g
- Acceleration wheels: 4083 kg x cm²
First cream chassis
After just a few metres on our test track, the Dartmoor Rocbird impressed us with its first-class suspension. The fork and rear suspension respond very sensitively and generate the best traction. The bike feels planted and allows for high speeds. Only in really rough passages, where a lot of suspension travel is required, does the rear suspension prove to be superior to the fork. Due to the special geometry with a long front centre (485 reach), but very short chainstays and a stubby stem, the Rocbird requires an experienced rider. It feels like you're putting a lot of weight on the rear wheel and have to actively load the front. This creates a certain imbalance, which is why the Dartmoor is less intuitive to ride. However, once you have adjusted to the special features, the short rear end is a lot of fun to ride and pushes the Rocbird more towards bike park use than enduro racing.
Comfortably uphill with the Dartmoor Rocbird Pro
At 16 kilos without pedals, the Dartmoor ranks in the good midfield in this test. However, the bike only has Maxxis tyres with an Exo carcass, which offer little puncture protection but have a positive effect on wheel acceleration. The short stem shrinks the seat length, which means you sit comfortably and upright despite the long reach. The front rises early on steep climbs. Little weight on the front wheel and short chainstays require the rider to actively lean forwards. In open mode, the rear suspension also pumps strongly when pedalling, which the shock platform can compensate for to some extent.
Conclusion Peter Nilges, BIKE Test Manager
The Dartmoor Rocbird has a first-class chassis and high-quality equipment. Thanks to its special geometry, the enduro bike is also recommended for use in the park.
