The Mondraker model range has been given "Forward Geometry" for the 2013 season. The "Foxy" bike from 2012 is completely conventional, while the new "Foxy FG" will roll onto the trails with a completely redesigned front triangle.

Long top tube
When comparing the old with the new geometry, it is striking: The new "Foxy FG" has a 60 millimeter longer top tube and therefore a 60 millimeter longer front frame triangle - as the head tube angle remains identical. The two models have the same distances between the bottom bracket, saddle and handlebars - in other words, the same riding position. The complete overall geometry remains the same for both Foxys thanks to the use of the identical 140 millimeter fork length. The remaining geometry corner points remain the same (68º head angle, 75º seat angle, 430 millimeter chainstay length, 0 millimeter bottom bracket camber)

Conclusion: All the changes in the "Forward Geometry" result in a longer main frame triangle, which pushes the front axle forward but keeps the handlebars in the same position thanks to the shorter stem. And according to Mondraker, this is precisely the key to the new "Forward Geometry" concept.

What's the benefit?
The Spanish manufacturer praises the "long top tube, very short stem" concept with a number of advantages: Compared to other geometry approaches, the front wheel axle is shifted far forward - making it almost impossible to fly over the handlebars in steep passages. The rider feels much safer and has the feeling of riding a bike with a slacker steering angle. At high speeds, the longer wheelbase also contributes to a safe riding experience.

Pressure on the front wheel
Mondraker also praises the fresh geometry concept on the climbs, with the long main frame triangle keeping the front wheel in contact with the ground for longer. The "Forward Geometry" completely shifts the center of gravity and weight distribution between the two wheels. There is significantly more pressure on the front wheel than with a classic geometry, which provides more grip in corners and more control in all riding situations.

Less fiddling with the handlebars
With the extremely short 10 millimeter stem, significantly less movement with the handlebars is required to achieve the same steering angle of the front wheel, resulting in greater steering precision and making the bike more reactive to ride, despite the longer wheelbase.

With the new geometry approach, Mondraker has been inspired by motorcycle geometries, but has also incorporated influences from downhill and BMX sports. The "Forward Geometry" will be used on the Factor XR, Foxy XR, Dune XR and Summum Pro Team bikes for 2013.

www.mondraker.com