Enduro test 2024: Intense Tracer 279 Pro impresses with its workmanship and features

The US cult brand Intense is honing its image and has also made a significant leap in terms of price/performance. The customised Intense Tracer 279 is the best proof of this.

Handy: The Intense Tracer 279 Pro in the test

For 6499 euros, Intense is sending a high-quality enduro bike into the race, which has a full carbon frame and nice details such as a storage compartment or a tool-free thru-axle. The Tracer, which is available by mail order, also comes with a high-quality tool kit.

The 279 Pro is already the top model in the line-up. The 29 version of the Tracer has a large rear wheel. Our test bike, on the other hand, benefited from short chainstays and was correspondingly willing on the rear wheel. As the steering angle is also on the steeper side compared to the test environment, the wheelbase remains manageable despite the L size.

All in all, the Tracer is easy to handle and can be manoeuvred through the terrain with little physical effort. The Maxxterra compound tyres also roll well and bring the Intense to life. However, you have to accept compromises in terms of puncture protection and grip.

Due to the flat handlebars with little rise, there is a lot of pressure on the front wheel. This helps when cornering and climbing. On steep, rough downhill sections, however, you feel less confident on the bike. A higher cockpit would help here. But also because of the manoeuvrable geometry, the Intense reaches its limit a little earlier in fast bike park sections than the smooth-running competition.

As the steel spring damper is embedded deep in the frame, the centre of gravity is low. Overall, the suspension works at a good level, responds finely, but is not quite as plush as the best downhill bikes in this test. This results in a little more bumpiness. Uphill, the pumping of the rear suspension is limited.

Equipment

• Fork Fox 38 Performance Elite
• Damper Fox DHX2 Perf. Elite Coil
• Circuit Shimano XT, 1 x 12
• Translation / bandwidth 30; 10-51 / 510 %
• Brakes Shimano XT 203/203 mm
• Telesupport/lift eThirteen Infinite Dropper / 180 mm
• Impellers eThirteen LG1 Race SL
• Tyres Maxxis Minion DHF/DHRII Maxxterra Exo+ 29x2.5 / 27.5x2.4

Measured values

• Total weight 16.15 kg (without pedals)
• Weight Impellers 5508 g
• Acceleration impellers 3955 kg x cm²

Conclusion from Dimitri Lehner, Editor-in-Chief FREERIDE

The workmanship and equipment of the Intense Tracer are absolutely convincing. The enduro bike is easy to handle and suits riders with a playful riding style. However, there are more powerful bikes for the bike park and pure shooting.

FREERIDE test rating: 8