Reader question: I'm interested in the Bulls Copperhead 29 Plus from the test in BIKE 1/11. You criticised the narrow handlebars and the long stem. Does only the handlebar need to be wider or does the stem also need to be modified?
BIKE test manager Christoph Listmann provides the answer:
I would take a shorter 90 mm stem, a wider 660 or 680 mm handlebar and possibly even extend the fork to 100 mm travel. This is no problem with some Rock-Shox models such as the Reba with spacer rings inside. The conversion takes two working days at Sport Import and costs around 32 euros. Skilled mechanics can do it in about 20 minutes. The maintenance and adjustment of a mountain bike is not rocket science. You can do most of the work yourself with a basic set of tools and the appropriate skills.
When it comes to the suspension elements, things look a little different. Only mechanics should have the confidence to dismantle a fork. If you want to try your hand at a Rock Shox Reba, for example, you can download the complete operating instructions in English here.
It also describes how to convert the suspension travel using spacer rings - the Reba can be lengthened or shortened from 80 to 100 or 120 millimetres of suspension travel and thus adapted to the riding style and bike geometry.
Attention: We recommend that you always go to a specialist dealer and accept no liability whatsoever!
