Form follows function - Fusion with frontman Bodo Probst has been building bikes according to this motto for years. And while the competition is sometimes getting carried away with ever more extravagant frame designs, the German forge favours classic shapes. The "Freak" is an old acquaintance from past enduro tests - known as a manoeuvrable, excellently balanced fun bike for touring and park riding. For 2008, designer Probst has lengthened the geometry, made the steering angle slacker and updated the "Float-Link" rear triangle. The reason: to make the "Freak" even more suitable for touring. Probst has achieved this goal. The "Freak" climbs excellently thanks to the slightly forward-shifted seating position and the longer geometry. Downhill, the bike has become more mature as a result. It is no longer as playfully manoeuvrable, but you feel more confident on fast lines. And while the "Float-Link" rear suspension is not very sensitive to small bumps due to its high friction, it proves to have good absorption capacity at high speeds. In the "Team" version, the "Freak" comes with high-quality and well thought-out equipment throughout. Only the choice of tyres and the slightly too narrow handlebars are on our minus list.
CONCLUSIONThe "Freak" is still one of the best enduro bikes - now even more suitable for touring.
TUNING TIP: Fit different tyres and wider handlebars.
