At the photo shoot in the Lienz Dolomites in September, the bright red FAB.4 650B was already able to set a few accents. The Maxx bike manufactory uses a configurator to fulfil almost every wish. Between the first rideable photo sample and our current test version, a lot of optimisation work was carried out. Unfortunately, we have not yet received the final version of the bike, which means that the steering angle has changed to 67 degrees and the bottom bracket to 352 millimetres. Nevertheless, the delivered model was already impressive. Thanks to the wide handlebars and short stem as well as the sensitive rear suspension, which can be ridden with a lot of sag, the Maxx has good handling and plenty of downhill comfort. The large negative suspension travel of the shock relativises the steering angle, which is still too steep, and the high bottom bracket of the pre-production bike. A very light aluminium frame forms the heart of the FAB.4 650B, which means that the total weight settles at a moderate 13.85 kilos despite the solid equipment. Above all, the fitted Hans Dampf tyres in Trailstar compound provide good grip in wet conditions, but of course roll a little less smoothly. Although Maxx doesn't install a pure suspension system, the Marzocchi shock harmonises very well with the non-retractable Fox fork and has useful adjustment options. Compared to the Rotwild, which has the same suspension travel, the Maxx is a little more playful and lively. The frame price is extremely fair.
Conclusion A successful enduro bike with a lightweight frame and powerful chassis, which also has playful handling. The solid equipment matches the intended use.
PLUS Lightweight frame, sensible equipment
MINUS Prototype still has too steep steering angle and quite high bottom bracket
The alternative: Almost anything is possible with Maxx using the configurator. Equipment, colour, frame design. For the SRAM XXL1 version with eleven gears, you pay an extra 100 euros with otherwise unchanged equipment.
