The "Pendbox" is an external bottom bracket housing that is connected to the main frame via a pivot axis and is therefore movable. The "pendbox" is then connected to the multi-supported single-joint via a link. When the kinematics are sprung, the bottom bracket also works. The result is a constant chain line (hardly any chain elongation) and high suspension sensitivity. The drive and suspension work independently of each other.

Powerful and sensitive
You can feel this independence both uphill and downhill. In uphill gear, you have very good propulsion and traction. There is also no noticeable pedal kickback. Downhill, the downhill genes of its big brother are evident. The rear triangle absorbs fast and small impacts with ease and remains active and sensitive even when braking thanks to the short chain length. The combination of "Pendbox" and rear suspension also makes the "X-Flow" suitable for rougher terrain. The 120 millimeters of travel at the rear feel like more. In addition, the bike can be pedaled out of corners with a lot of propulsion thanks to the drive neutrality. All in all, the "Pendox" has been adapted very well to the shorter suspension travel. The "X-Flow" can also be ridden well with a longer-travel fork, as the 120 millimetres reach their limit earlier than the rear triangle.

Equal frame weight
. In terms of frame weight, the carbon bikes are on a par with the comparable "X-Control" line despite more rear travel (120 millimetres). Although some weight has been saved on the tubes, this has been added again due to the "Pendbox". The weight saved has been moved downwards, so to speak. This ensures a low center of gravity, which simplifies the handling of the bikes. With the aluminum models, the weight calculation did not quite work out. Compared to the "X-Control" range, they are a little higher.

Trend-oriented
Visually, Lapierre leaves nothing to chance as usual. Beautifully shaped tubes, simple design without a lot of frills and internally routed cables. While both shift cables and brake lines are routed internally on the three carbon models, only the shift cables are routed internally on the four aluminum versions (one of which is a lady version). Of course, the bikes also feature a rear derailleur guard and sag indicator for a simple suspension setup. However, the rubber down tube protector is only fitted to the carbon bikes. According to Lapierre, this is not necessary for the aluminum bikes.

Conclusion
The "X-Flow" has presented itself as a versatile marathon bike with trail bike ambitions and does not shy away from the occasional excursion into rougher terrain. The bikes are expected to be available from September.www.lapierrebikes.com