WebreaderShopNewsletterTop dealers & workshops

Mondraker Dune XR on test

Dimitri Lehner

 · 21.02.2016

Mondraker Dune XR on testPhoto: Franz Faltermaier
Mondraker Dune XR on test
All testers liked the lightweight Mondraker with its wide range of use, direct steering and energetic propulsion. Only those looking for maximum comfort downhill will not quite find what they are looking for.
Test 2015 Enduro Bikes: Mondraker Dune XRPhoto: Franz Faltermaier Test 2015 Enduro Bikes: Mondraker Dune XR

The Spanish bike label Mondraker is going its own way with "Fast Forward". Three years ago, the Spaniards developed their special geometry together with downhill world champion and enduro expert Fabien Barel. They push the rider a little further back behind the front wheel with an ultra-short stem and lengthen the top tube. When things get steep downhill, this shifted back position should provide more safety. The rear suspension kinematics with its floating suspension strut is reminiscent of Bodo Probst's "Float Link". The advantage: a propulsive, fairly drive-neutral rear end. The data of the "Dune" is startling at first glance: A long 630 mm top tube and a monstrous-looking reach of 468 millimetres suggest a stretching bench. Not at all! On the trail, the "Dune" surprises with a comfortable riding position and, above all, surprises with how manoeuvrable and playful it is with these dimensions. Admittedly: You have to get used to the "Fast Forward" steering a little. The bike needs to be ridden actively, then it zips through turns. On steep high-speed sections, the Fox suspension keeps calm and generates stability, supported by the long wheelbase. This is where the "Fast Forward" geometry pays off - you sit further behind the front wheel without the feeling of rolling over. This provides a plus in safety. Even the steep steering angle doesn't get in the way. The short rear end provides the necessary agility. It doesn't sag and feels active. However, the firmer rear end is not as fluffy as that of the downhill specialists in the test field (Giant, Rose, Bionicon). The Formula "CR3" brakes with 180 mm discs lacked a bit of bite and modulation.


ConclusionThe lightweight Mondraker pleased all testers with its wide range of use, direct steering and energetic propulsion. Only those looking for maximum comfort downhill will not quite find what they are looking for.


STRENGTHS All-round use, workmanship, weight
WEAKNESSES Weak brake

Humpback whale: special look, special steering. The short stem of the Mondraker "Dune" creates a very direct steering feel. Once you get used to it, it's a lot of fun.Photo: Franz Faltermaier Humpback whale: special look, special steering. The short stem of the Mondraker "Dune" creates a very direct steering feel. Once you get used to it, it's a lot of fun. Mondraker protects the floating shock with a plastic strip. You don't have to activate the compression damping, the rear end hardly bobs even when pedalling.Photo: Franz Faltermaier Mondraker protects the floating shock with a plastic strip. You don't have to activate the compression damping, the rear end hardly bobs even when pedalling. Test 2015 Enduro Bikes: Mondraker Dune XRPhoto: FREERIDE Magazin Test 2015 Enduro Bikes: Mondraker Dune XR Test 2015 Enduro Bikes: Mondraker Dune XRPhoto: FREERIDE Magazin Test 2015 Enduro Bikes: Mondraker Dune XR The number (maximum 10 points) reflects the overall impression of the testers and is not an addition of downhill and uphill points.Photo: FREERIDE Magazin The number (maximum 10 points) reflects the overall impression of the testers and is not an addition of downhill and uphill points.
How do you like this article?


Manufacturer information


Distribution Shock Therapy www.shock-therapy.com
Material/sizes Aluminium/S, M, L, XL
Price/weight without pedals* 5799 Euro/13.3 kg


Measurement data


Front/rear suspension travel 160 mm/160 mm
Rear suspension system VPP Float Link


Equipment


Fork/damper Fox 36 Float RC2/Fox Float X CTD
Cranks/gears SRAM X1/ SRAM XO1
Brake system Formula CR3
Impellers Mavic Crossmax XL system wheelset, Maxxis High Roller 2 2.3 tyres

You can find this article in FREERIDE 2/2015 - you can order the magazine here > FREERIDE IOS App (iPad) FREERIDE Android AppPhoto: Lars Scharl You can find this article in FREERIDE 2/2015 - you can order the magazine here > FREERIDE IOS App (iPad) FREERIDE Android App
Dimitri Lehner

Dimitri Lehner is a qualified sports scientist. He studied at the German Sport University Cologne. He is fascinated by almost every discipline of fun sports - besides biking, his favourites are windsurfing, skiing and skydiving. His latest passion: the gravel bike. He recently rode it from Munich to the Baltic Sea - and found it marvellous. And exhausting. Wonderfully exhausting!

Home
FREERIDE

Most read in category Bikes