2699 euros for an enduro bike with a five-year frame warranty and full XT equipment (20 gears) aroused our curiosity. As expected, at just over 14 kilos, the Comet is no lightweight. However, the solid frame (3005 g without shock) scores points with its high rigidity and pleasing geometry. The rather moderate head angle (66.6°), the moderate handlebar width and the Conti Mountain King tyres, which are too tame but roll well for enduro use, bridge the gap to all-mountain bikes. In terms of suspension, however, the Comet with its potent Rock Shox Pike fork and Monarch Plus shock leaves nothing to be desired. For a little more counter-pressure from the rear end and more support when pedalling out of the saddle, we rode the shock in the quickly switchable middle pedal position. This allows the fork and rear to work in harmony. The steep seat angle positions the rider far forward, which in combination with the high front end ensures a relaxed, upright position. Downhill, the Rocket impresses with its neutral handling, even if there are more playful enduro bikes on the market due to the chainstay length. We found the lack of a dropper post (the frame is Stealth-compatible) and the loud rattling rear derailleur without a friction damper to be an absolute no-go.
Test summary of the Rocket Comet Enduro
If you retrofit a dropper post and Shadow rear derailleur, you get a solid and well-balanced enduro bike at an extremely attractive price.
PLUS Solid, rigid frame, seat tube prepared for internally routed dropper post, XT components
MINUS No telescopic seat post, rattling rear derailleur, narrow rims
You can read this article or the entire BIKE 10/2015 issue in the BIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or buy the issue in the DK shop reorder:
