Yes, I admit it: in the last two years, I have given in more to the sweet temptation of motorised assistance than to the classic mountain bike. Job, moving house, children - in the short windows of time I had left, my e-MTB simply gave me a wider horizon of experiences. And so, before the MTB revival with the Liv Hail Advanced, I was feeling pretty queasy. My home circuit, a picture-book singletrack dream, but without the extra steam from the power socket - is that even possible? Yes, it is possible. And how.
I almost get the impression that this bike makes up for the torque of the motor with liveliness. It circles around corners light-footedly, follows my steering impulses precisely and accelerates effectively and agilely out of the tight bends of the trail. The suspension travel of a good 160 millimetres is beyond reproach, the smallest roots are ironed out and large bumps are swallowed without grumbling. The suspension does not bottom out at the rear, but provides good feedback even in open mode. But don't get the wrong impression: the Hail Advanced cannot deny its origins. This bike is a true enduro bike. Almost 14 kilos is normal in this league, but uphill is certainly no walk in the park. And as well as the Schwalbe Hans Dampf/Magic Mary tyres grip the ground downhill, they also inhibit uphill propulsion. But you can't have everything.
But the details shine. The gearing is good even on steep ramps, the chain guide always keeps the chain in position and the seat post is easy to operate. Oh yes, the handlebars are too wide, I would shorten them a little.
Sabine Greber, BIKE tester:
The Liv deserves high praise. Every detail fits into the harmonious overall concept and is also functionally well thought out. A great bike for women who really want to turn the throttle on downhill - without a motor. The price is more than fair.
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