Unfortunately, the new 2016 development rolled into our lab in size M because size L was not available. But as in the test in BIKE 1/16the SL version of the 27.5-inch bike also lived up to its reputation as a "trail killer". You sit in the centre of the bike and keep a smile on your face even on bumpy sections thanks to the wide handlebars, stiff main frame and telescopic seat post. The voluminous 2.4 protection tyre at the front dispels the fear of punctures. Only the tangle of cables (seven cables!) in front of the cockpit spoils the look. But that's the price you pay for the remote control for the Fox fork and shock. This allows the shock platform to be switched on at lightning speed on climbs and brings calm to the suspension. The 170 mm cranks ex works seem a little idiosyncratic. Perfect for frame size S, but for M? Thanks to the wide gear range and the remote control, the Spine is also suitable for scrubbing kilometres on firm ground. However, you should then fit fast tyres.
ConclusionSuccessful chassis, modern geometry and sensible equipment put together a package that is hard to beat for 3799 euros.
The alternative: The Evo stands out in the extensive Spline programme. The aluminium version with Rock Shox suspension and Sram GX single drivetrain is said to weigh only 300 g more than our test bike. Price: 2500 euros.
