Maxx does not offer a geometry adjustment to compensate for the small height differences of the wheels. However, the equipment can be freely customised in the online configurator and an additional wheelset can also be ordered. In our test, the bike was also able to prove itself with both wheel sizes. The 29-inch wheels were used on the first ride. On the climbs, the suspension remains relatively composed for an enduro bike and the rear suspension only pumps moderately - the platform is effective. Thanks to the steep seat angle, the position is upright. When turning onto the rough trail, we miss the hoped-for swallowing capacity that a long-travel 29er ideally promises. The suspension travel feels rather firm instead of providing endless reserves. The long chainstays support the climbing characteristics, but limit the playfulness of the bike. After changing to the 3.0 plus tyres, the picture changes: the suspension feels much more plush and the lower position gives it more composure. This allows the Fab4 to fly over even the roughest passages. However, the ride also becomes a little slower, which doesn't exactly encourage lively acceleration. On technical and slippery uphill terrain, the wide tyres are hard to beat, especially in combination with the mountain-ready gearing. However, the two systems were not quite on an equal footing in the comparison: While the 3.0 Nobby Nics rolled in soft Trailstar compound, the 29er came with more slippery Pace Star rubber.
CONCLUSION Peter Nilges, BIKE Test Manager: The wide Plus tyres are a force to be reckoned with on technical terrain. Whether climbing or descending, the tyres offer enormous traction. However, the bottom bracket is very low with the Plus wheelset and the bike becomes more sluggish due to the tyres. Nevertheless, as long as it's not a matter of time, I would put the wide tyres on the Fab4 in most cases.
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