At 12.5 kilograms, the massive carbon bike is actually quite light. However, the Sram XX1 drivetrain with just one chainring is the only way to save weight. Although not heavy, the bike is equipped with solid parts. The "Rail 50" wheels, a Rock Shock "Reverb Stealth" seat post, the "Pike" suspension fork and the electronically switchable "Monarch" suspension strut from Rock Shox and the Avid X.O-Trail brakes all come from Sram. The "Spicy Team" is controlled by an Easton "Havoc" and "Haven" cockpit. The sturdy "Hans Dampf" tires from Schwalbe also make a trustworthy impression.

Suspension adjustment at the touch of a button
The massive look of the frame lives up to its promise. You can enjoy a high level of lateral stiffness when accelerating. The wheels also convert the power into propulsion. The riding position of the "Spicy Team" is relatively upright, which is noticeable in the back when riding uphill for long periods. Once you get used to this peculiarity a little, however, it climbs well. On asphalt roads, the bumper can be locked electronically. On uphill trails, the middle setting is ideal. On descents or rough terrain, however, the shock should be open. If this is too much switching for you, select the automatic mode, which can be programmed with five preset levels. This opens and closes surprisingly well and quickly.

Fun downhill
The core competence of this car lies above all in downhill riding. Although it looks a bit jacked up, it doesn't feel that way at all - on the contrary. It's a lot of fun. Whether flowing or steep, hard, rough or loose ground, the Lapierre stays on track and yet it can be moved playfully through the terrain. The suspension kinematics are very well tuned to the shock. All you have to do is adjust the rebound speed and the negative suspension travel - between 23 and 27 percent, depending on your preference. The suspension fork is the most balanced with 25 percent negative suspension travel. Like the suspension elements, the XX1 groupset is also predestined for enduro use.

Conclusion: If you're looking for a lightweight bike for rough terrain that doesn't shy away from long descents, the "Spicy Team" is a very good choice. It can also be used on long, high alpine tours, with slight compromises in terms of uphill performance.

Manufacturer: www.lapierrebicycles.com

Test report published in issue 01/2014 of Ride Magazine