Crossworx Cycles from Thuringia is causing a stir in the mountain bike scene with an unusual new product. The manufacturer is presenting a special edition of its tried-and-tested full suspension models for the coming season DASH and LITE with extremely extended rear triangle. The central feature of the DASH290 VKHL Edition is the rear triangle, which has been extended to 720 millimetres (!). The abbreviation stands for "short at the front - long at the rear".
According to Crossworx Cycles, this radical change in geometry promises a number of advantages. The enormous lengthening of the strut from 450 to 720 millimetres should increase smoothness by 60 per cent. The rider's centre of gravity shifts towards the cockpit, which leads to a more stable straight-line stability. On steep descents, the bike is literally kept on track, while the extended chainstay design ensures optimum weight distribution.
Improved driving behaviour in technical terrain
Crossworx Cycles cites improved traction on loose and technical surfaces and more control thanks to the optimised weight transfer as further advantages of the extreme rear triangle length of the Crossworx DASH290 VKHL. The bike is less nervous and behaves more confidently in corners.
Even if the rear end breaks away, the "skid" only reaches the rider with a delay, allowing more time to correct riding errors. The manufacturer admits that the extreme length on narrow trails can certainly be a challenge. Those who are used to tight bends will have to raise their riding technique to a new level.
Customised kinematics and damping
According to Crossworx Cycles, the shock absorber system has been specially adapted to maintain the usual performance despite the modified geometry. The changed leverage effect made it necessary to revise the kinematics. The aim was to enable an agile riding experience despite the extreme length. However, the manufacturer does not provide any specific details on the adapted damping and kinematics.
First practical tests by professionals
The first test samples of the VKHL Edition are already in use and are being extensively tested by professional riders. According to Crossworx Cycles, the reigning German enduro champion, Raphaela Richter, is delighted with the rear triangle extension. She is certain that it will take her speed to the next level.
Richter could imagine competing in the first Enduro World Series race this year in Pietra Ligure with this setup. In order to compensate for her height of 165 centimetres with regard to the longer rear triangle, she is currently testing some 2-centimetre-high insoles in her shoes, 3D-printed by Ruben.
Test driver Kevin Dewinski says: "I love to take the weight off my rear wheel before the corner and let my rear wheel literally slide into the corner. The longer rear end makes it even easier for me to take the weight off my rear wheel. As a result, I can brake earlier and remain fast throughout the braking process and can then transition into a Scandinavian flick in one harmonious movement. Whether it's faster in the end will become clear in the short or long term, but above all in the long term."
Limited availability on 1 April
According to Crossworx Cycles, interested bikers should not wait too long - the exclusive upgrade is only available today on 1 April. The DASH290 VKHL can be purchased as a frame kit from a price of 5999 euros. The 3500 euro higher frame price compared to the standard model is due to the significantly higher material usage. Square struts of this length are currently difficult to obtain on the market.
Marc Strucken
Editor
