This investment has not left the equipment level unscathed - the Thunderbolt is the only bike in the group with a Shimano SLX drivetrain and 20 gears. Spoilt by the new 22-speed XT, you have to shift up front more often on the SLX due to the lack of cassette range. But that's complaining on a high level. Before the test ride, the Feuerstuhl needs fine-tuning: turn the stem upwards, with the Ride 9 geometry and suspension adjustment we set the shock to the sportiest, steepest position. The testers were delighted with the handling, as long as you adapt the suspension to the application. The remote control on the handlebars makes it easy to constantly change modes, whereby the Thunderbolt rides best in the middle position of the shock (medium). This conceals the moderate efficiency of the kinematics. The bike's weak points are the heavy wheels/tyres. They rob the bike of some of its innate light-footedness.
ConclusionOne of the best quality frames with agile geometry and pleasant handling. The wheels cost agility.
The alternative: The BC edition of the Thunderbolt even impressed our lazy colleagues on the FREERIDE editorial team. For 6900 euros, you get a first-class trail rocket, with a 130 mm Pike and 12.3 kg.
