With the carbon main frame, the specialist retail brands Cube and Ghost even outperform their mail-order competitors, but lose out on important points in terms of equipment. The lack of a dropper post, the narrow handlebars and heavy wheels are the tribute that the product managers have to pay for the expensive fibre frame. Nevertheless
Nevertheless, the Spine cuts a fine figure on the trail, with a modern geometry that positions the rider centrally above the bike on the downhill. On the uphill, on the other hand, the steep seat angle gives you a more front-heavy position. The short chainstays give the Focus its playful character, and the 124 mm travel ensures composure and grip at the rear, even in nasty root passages. The wide front tyre enhances the trail potential.
ConclusionThe trail killer downhill! The successful frame concept fits into the trail bike scheme, only the equipment could be improved.
The alternative: Some say that single drivetrains are the future. If you only want one chainring on your bike, take the gaudy Spine Evo with the Sram GX groupset, aluminium frame and Rock-
Shox suspension.
You can read this article or the entire BIKE 1/2016 issue in the BIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or buy the issue in the DK shop reorder:
