We were sent the 29er with just over 120 millimetres of travel to test. As soon as you sit on the bike, the Spark makes it clear that you have a real sports machine under your bum. But it's not just the sporty riding position that tempts you to accelerate uphill. The handlebar lockout allows the rear of the Spark to be completely locked on climbs. The single drive fits the sporty image. Despite the relatively high weight of 13.9 kilos ready to ride, the Spark was one of the test crew's favourites on the climbs. Downhill, the large 29er wheels roll over every root field. The wide 2.35 tyres make the ride downhill comfortable, but could do with a little more grip. The Spark changes direction almost playfully in tight corners. The suspension is extremely sensitive, but sporty riders miss some compression damping for better feedback from the trail. In contrast to the other Fox suspensions, the medium damping mode with its firm set-up is not an option for descents.
Conclusion: Well-balanced trail bike. Very potent both uphill and downhill. So you hardly have to compromise on tours.
The alternative: For 300 euros less, you can get the Spark 950 with the same frame and cheaper Shimano 2x11 equipment. The weight increases.
You can read this article or the entire issue of BIKE 8/2017 in the BIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or the issue in the DK shop reorder:
