Seen: Arbr Bikes - fine coal from the island

The bike mecca of Finale Ligure is currently attracting not only the world's best enduro riders, but also manufacturers who are testing their products. This time, a rare bike stands out from the flood of bikes: the 160-millimeter enduro bike "Saker" from the British brand Arbor.

The Saker from mountain bike brand Arbr is a real eye-catcher. This is an enduro bike with 160 millimetres of suspension travel with a high main pivot point of the rear triangle and a deflected chain line. The linkage of the shock absorber is located just above the bottom bracket. This arrangement and the shape of the main frame are not unfamiliar to us. Although not the same, Devinci uses a similar linkage and a similar frame shape for its downhill bike "Wilson" - only without a deflected chain guide.

The shock absorber on the Saker is controlled from below. The bellcrank responsible for this is hidden above the bottom bracket under a lot of carbon - have fun cleaning it.

Although this example of the Saker is still a prototype, it is in the final stages of development, as Arbr Managing Director Robert Barr says and explains: "Here in Finale, we are still carrying out final ride tests. We want to start production as soon as possible."
However, the series will be small, so the Saker will soon be off the table. According to the information provided, the Saker should not shy away from heavy work. At 13.5 kilograms, it may not be super light, but it is stable.

With its modern geometry, steep seat angle and flat steering angle, it should be able to take on practically anything, from long climbs to fast descents. The suspension feels very sensitive during the on-site compression test and is progressive in the last third of the suspension travel - at least it feels that way. The rolling stock size is set at 27.5 inches.
The frame is also beautifully finished and offers a visual mix of visible carbon and black painted surfaces. The cables and lines are routed through the inside of the frame. The brand and model lettering as well as the logo are emblazoned on the down tube, seat tube and head tube.

Although the bike is kept simple, there are two splashes of color on the bike with the model lettering and logo.

Unlike other manufacturers, Arbr bikes use the know-how that is already available in the UK. Production is not in the Far East but directly on the island. A bold step. However, Arbr does not serve the masses but, in industry terms, "a handful" of customers with its high-end two-wheelers.

www.arbr.bike