The Netherlands is not exactly known for its wild trails and rapid descents. The highest elevation in the country measures just 322 metres. Nevertheless, a motivated team from Amsterdam wants to have developed an enduro bike that can be ridden by beginners and should even hold its own in the EWS. We are curious.
CEO Andreas Knol and his team were already designing products for the sports industry before Instinctiv was founded. Two and a half years ago, they came up with the idea of building their own mountain bike. What began as a side project has developed into a fully-fledged bike brand, which is now proud to present its first customised enduro bike. Due to the acute lack of mountains in the Netherlands, testing is carried out on the natural trails in Croatia and Slovenia.
The M series is the Dutch company's first creation. The Pinion bike is available in three versions: The M9 (29 inch)that M7 (27.5 inch) and the M97 (Mullet). The front part of the frame is identical on all versions. Only the length of the seat and chain stays on the M9 are adapted to the larger 29-inch wheel. The chainstays are 1.5 cm longer than on the M7 or M97. The M9 offers 140 mm Rear suspension travel and 150 mm at the front. The M7 and M97 compensate for the smaller rear wheel with 150 millimetres of rear suspension travel.
Recycled carbon from the automotive industry
After all, 7% recycled carbon from the automotive industry is used in the full carbon frame of the M series. This may not save the world, but it is an important step towards sustainability. The frames are produced in Taiwan. However, the Dutch do not take away the painting and final assembly.
The frame concept is designed to give the rider maximum confidence. This is ensured by the very low and central centre of gravity. The Pinion gearbox is 600-900 grams heavier than a derailleur, but does not require a front derailleur and cassette on the rear axle. This reduces the unsprung mass and the suspension responds more sensitively. In addition, the centre of gravity is more central to the bike.
The geometry promises good ironing properties. A long reach (486 mm in L) and a Flat steering angle of 64.5 degrees should ensure a smooth ride on descents. To reach the next enduro stage, the 76-degree seat angle helps when climbing.
Instinctiv has equipped the chain tensioner on the Pinion gearbox with a stronger spring and larger rollers. This should make it work even better on rough descents. The gears of the Pinion gear system are changed on the Instinctiv using a trigger from Tout-Terrain. Normally, this is done by a twist grip.
"Central and Low"
This is the motto for the M series from Instinctiv. The bike should remain stable at high speeds, offer plenty of grip and be predictable in all positions. The modified Horst-Link rear triangle with a tiny rocker arm is progressive and compact. It ensures that the shock sits very low in the frame. In conjunction with the Pinion gearbox, the bike's centre of gravity is centrally located under the rider.
The Instinctiv bike is available from 7499 Euro and, depending on the impeller size, it should be between 14.9 kg and 15.2 kg (frame size L). If you would like one, you can pre-order directly from Instictiv. A test centre in Switzerland is also planned for 2021.
The facts at a glance:
- Frame: Carbon, made from 7% recycled material
- Wheel sizes: 29" (M9), 27,5" (M7) and Mullet (M97)
- Spring travel: M9150/140 mm; M7160/150 mm; M97: 150/150 mm
- Pinion C1.9XR Gear shifting
- Weight: M915.2kg; M714.9kg; M97: 15,1kg
- Sizes: M / L / XL
- Price: from 7499 Euro
- Availability: Available to order now
- www.instinctiv.bike
Geometry
Thanks to its modern geometry, the Instinctiv promises a smooth ride on rough terrain. The 76 degree steep seat angle should provide the necessary uphill performance between the stages. The chainstays adapt to the respective wheel size.
