At Simplon - as with many other manufacturers - everything will revolve around 650B next year. The two all-mountain models Kibo and Kibo Carbon have been given 27.5-inch wheels and the suspension travel has been increased to 130 millimetres for 2014. Following the introduction of the two touring full-sussers last year Simplon for 2014 The Vorarlberg-based company has ventured into the enduro camp for the first time with the 160 mm "Kuro" fully - without forgetting its origins in racing. The carbon fibre chassis of the Kuro is a genuine four-bar linkage and very light at 2125 grams (including shock). Drive neutrality was the top priority when tuning the Rock Shox Monarch RT3 damper. This means that the Kuro remains very easy and efficient to pedal uphill despite its 160 millimetre stroke.
Combination of industrial and plain bearings
The carbon fibre rocker forms the connection to the torsion-resistant rear triangle of the Kuro. The rocker with four industrial bearings and the quick-release thru-axle at the rear ensure a rigid transition. A combination of industrial and plain bearings is used on the Horst link. The aim is to better absorb lateral forces and ensure greater tracking stability. A BB92 bottom bracket ensures a rigid connection to the crank. To protect the down tube from stones, a "Stone Guard" cover is fitted to the lower section.
For touring riders who want more downhill reserves
Clear focus of the Kuro: Touring riders who pedal their bike up the mountain themselves. Hence the steep 74° seat angle and the relatively steep steering angle of 67.5°. The 740 mm riser bar and the 60 mm stem are also somewhat deliberate for true enduro and downhill riders. But touring riders who are switching from all-mountain bikes to more travel will find this geometry and setup more to their liking. As is typical for Simplon, all cables (including the brake lines) are routed inside the frame. The LEV telescopic seatpost from Kindshock with integrated cable routing is also part of the Kuro setup.
The Kuro is available in three frame heights: 425 mm (S), 475 mm (M) and 525 mm (L) from 11.7 kilos. As usual with Simplon, the equipment can be customised in the configurator. Price: from 4300 euros. The suspension forks available are the 34 mm from Fox and Rock Shox's Pike RC.
Razorblade also in 27.5 inch
His successful Razorblade 29 (BIKE verdict "Super" in the test from 12/2012), Simplon also offers a 650B version. This is primarily intended for smaller racers and women for whom a 29er is simply too big. The carbon fibre frame has exactly the same details as the 29er:
- Internally routed shift cables and brake hose
- Agile, manoeuvrable geometry (70° steering angle, 73.5° seat angle)
- BB92 bottom bracket
- Quick-release thru axle
- Frame weight: 990 grams
- 27.2 mm seat post
- High Direct Mount front derailleur
- butted head tube
The Razorblade 275 will be available in three frame heights: XS (38 cm), S (42 cm) and M (46 cm). In the lightest custom configuration, it weighs 9.0 kilos, with prices starting from 2500 euros.
A ride report on the Simplon Kuro will be available in BIKE 9/2013 from 06 August.
