So it's no wonder that the Moon 3.0 boasts golden Fox Kashima suspension, high-quality DT Swiss wheels and a Sram XO1 groupset with carbon crankset. And on the trail? Uphill, the chain tension tightens the supported single-pivot link so that the rear triangle remains stable even when pedalling. Which is a good thing, because the shock's platform lever can only be reached with a bit of fiddling. Other bikes have more grip when setting off on rooty terrain. On descents, the 145 millimetres of travel at the rear can't hold a candle to the potent 160 millimetre fork. The shock sags in the upper part of the suspension before it only works in the end progression range. It is then barely able to handle larger impacts, which is why the tyre ultimately has to absorb the energy. We rode a conspicuous number of flats with the Kross. Nevertheless, the geometry is harmonious and the bike is easy to control over the test lap.
Conclusion: The bike is out of competition due to its high price, which puts the equipment into perspective.
The alternative: In 2017, the Kross Moon 3.0 changes colour and is no longer equipped to the same high standard as our test bike.