The Skeen already loses 301 to 988 grams in frame weight without the shock. Thanks to a consistent build with a Sram XX1 Eagle groupset and lightweight DT Swiss XMC carbon wheels, the total weight of twelve kilos without pedals is still respectable, which means a mid-table position in this select test field. Measured against the price that the mail-order company Radon charges for this bike, no other bike can keep up. Instead of the Yeti, you might as well put two Skeens in your garage. Thanks to the 18-inch frame, the riding position is compact but nicely centred. Despite the shock setup with little sag, the available travel can be utilised very well. The 122 millimetres at the rear measured in the laboratory feel like more and offer sufficient reserves at all times for the varied trails in Rabenberg. The suspension is very sensitive and only pumps minimally when pedalling uphill. On the trail, the frame flexes noticeably, which is also confirmed by our laboratory measurement. Light riders can therefore benefit from the extra traction in corners, but heavier riders will miss some stiffness. Thanks to the combination of 29-inch wheels and a fairly slack head angle of 67 degrees, the Radon offers a high degree of safety and excellent control, making the bike one of the best in terms of downhill behaviour. The long chainstays ensure a smooth ride and good climbing behaviour, but require a little more effort to lift the front wheel.
Tubeless tuning, carbon wheels: We didn't have to do a lot of tuning for the test bike, the Skeen is new for 2017 anyway with 29-inch wheels and the design. The slacker head angle in combination with the 130 mm travel on the fork provide more riding fun and control, the light wheels make it more lively. The best choice for trail parks like Rabenberg. (Lars Wiegand, Radon)
