Mondraker präsentiert das Dune erstmals in Carbon

Das Dune kommt auf das Jahr 2016 erstmals in Carbon. Ganz auf den Enduro-Rennsport getrimmt, hat der Fahrer die Wahl bei Lenkwinkel und Kettenstrebenlängen. Was bleibt ist die Forward Geometry sowie deren bewährtes Federungssystem. Von den drei Modellen soll das Leichteste 12.6 Kilogramm wiegen.

First presented in 2009, the Spanish mountain bike manufacturer Mondraker is launching its enduro flagship "Dune" in carbon for the first time in 2016. The bike is based on the platform that was renewed in 2014. The Forward Geometry, with which Mondraker took an extreme path that was also partially adopted by other manufacturers, remains the same. The Forward Geometry concept briefly explained means: a long top tube combined with an extremely short stem, which results in a smooth ride and very direct steering behavior. The models come with 30 mm stems. However, there are also options with a length of 20 or 10 millimetres.

Mondraker continues to rely on its "Zero Suspension System Technology" suspension system, which has already proven to be very forgiving in previous tests and offers 160 millimetres of travel on the Dune. This system is based on a virtual main pivot point and is a patented in-house development by Mondraker. It includes two rocker arms that load and control the shock from both ends. The shock is therefore floating. This positioning ensures smoother movement of the shock absorber, which results in less torsion but better responsiveness.

The Dune is uncompromisingly trimmed for enduro racing, but this also requires a certain degree of individuality and adaptability. With the Dune, you have the option of adapting the bike to your personal preferences or to the race track. The steering angle of 66 or 66.5 degrees can be made 1 degree slacker or steeper. The maneuverability can also be changed from the rear. Mondraker offers two chainstay lengths for this - 430 and 440 millimetres. The rear triangle also accommodates tires up to 2.5 inches.
The initial values of the steering angle depend on the model. The Dune "Cabon RR" comes with 160 millimetres of travel at the front, which accounts for 0.5 degrees compared to the racing-based XR model with a 170 mm fork.

Geometry

Mondrake Dune RR, R and XR.

New carbon layup and successful details
Mondraker calls its frame construction technology "Stealth Carbon Technology". This is characteristic of the curvy and round shapes that make up the unique design of the Dune Carbon. Dune Carbon also stands for exceptional structural rigidity and refers to the careful processing and studied positioning of each of the carbon layers that make up the stability. The vacuum compression process, which gives the frame its stability, stands out in particular. In this process, a vacuum is used to compress the fibers after each layer and then reapply material. In this way, any air between the carbon layers is removed so that they bond better with the epoxy adhesive.

Mondraker also provides the frame with clever details on the outside. A mudguard made of 3K carbon is attached to the front of the rear triangle to better protect the shock and pivot points. The chainstays are also protected. Here, the Spaniards use matching plastic protectors with laminated rubber for noise insulation in the event of chain impacts. Mondraker prevents the chain from falling off with a kind of inner bashguard made of carbon. This provides optimum protection for the frame and bottom bracket shell. The frame also offers the option of fitting an ISCG05 chain guide.

As is common practice with many manufacturers today, Mondraker also hides the cable for the changer and the cables for the rear brake and dropper post inside the frame. This protects them better and also improves the look. The access points to the cable ducts are closed with screw covers.