Once again, Liteville has been busy optimising the bike. The result: a 301 MK8 which, thanks to a retrofit kit (€ 498) with new levers and a longer-travel Fox DHX shock, has 170 millimetres of travel. Another new feature is the needle bearing in the front shock eyelet, which noticeably reduces the breakaway torque. Including the 170 mm Lyrik fork, its own chain guide and thick 2.5 mm Muddy Mary front tyre, the MK8 weighs just 13.45 kilos and ensures agile, light-footed handling with drive-neutral propulsion. The lack of fork drop loses points on steep sections. On the other hand, the rear suspension does not bottom out on the small chainring, even on extremely steep sections. If you look at the congruent characteristic curves, the suspension is very harmonious. On big, single hits and hard landings, the rear suspension offers very good absorption with reserves and utilises the travel better. On quick successive hits, it is less plush - then the bike conveys a firm feeling.
ConclusionSuccessful details, successful workmanship and excellent riding characteristics lead to the overall test victory.
+ Fully suitable for touring
+ Low weight
- No fork lowering
- No Vario support
Web: www.liteville.com
