Cirex SL tested by BIKE

Characteristics of the Cirex SL

Weighing less than ten kilograms and with 120 millimetres of suspension travel, the Cirex SL hit the track. The location for the test ride was the island of Elba, where the Capoliveri Legend Cup is held.

How does it feel to sit on the Cirex SL? Compared to its namesake, the Cirex, the SL version has a flatter steering angle thanks to a 120-mm fork. This especially pays off on the trails. The flat steering angle and the comparatively longer wheelbase additionally provide a smooth riding feel.

When the terrain gets rough, the Cirex SL truly shows off its strengths, especially compared to hardtails and full-suspension race bikes. A lower saddle, the wide cockpit and the stiff frame provide extra safety – especially when the brakes are released during downhill riding. When the terrain starts to get rough, the 120-mm travel of the Cirex SL “absorbs” any bumps, which makes for a pleasant riding experience.

A wish list for the Cirex SL by SIMPLON

The tester's only reservations: If the Cirex SL had wider and grippier tyres, it would be even easier to master muddy descents with larger obstacles. And with a 180-millimetre brake disc on the rear wheel, you would have better reserves on long and steep trail descents. But: It wouldn't be SIMPLON if at least one of these wishes couldn't be easily implemented during the configuration process. The wheels can be changed according to individual preference.

Cirex SL – more than a down country bike

If you are looking for the typical characteristics of a full-suspension race bike, you will find them in the Cirex SL. The riding position is still sporty. Another handy feature are the two cages for water bottles on the frame. On steep climbs and hard surfaces, such as the paved section on the route up Monte Calamita, the front wheel really sticks to the road. The 2.25-inch wheels ensure fast and energy-efficient acceleration.

Equipment details:

• frame: carbon
• wheels: DT Swiss XRC 1200 Spline 29
• fork: Fox 34 Float Factory FiT4 Remote
• shock: Fox Float DPS Factory
• brakes: Shimano XTR / 180 mm / 160 mm
• shifting system: Shimano XTR 1 x 12
• gear ratio/range: 32, 10-51 / 510 %
• telescopic seat post: KS LEV Integra / 125 mm

Conclusion

"The Cirex SL by SIMPLON covers a wide range of uses – whether in cross-country races, marathon competitions or long mountain tours. Compared to downhill-heavy trail bikes, both uphill and downhill riding is fun on the Cirex SL." That’s the verdict of the BIKE tester.

211.5 out of 250 points and thus best marks for uphill and downhill handling: A fantastic result that we can be proud of. With the Cirex SL with 120 millimetres of suspension travel, SIMPLON designed a bike for summit conquerors who want to generate maximum output with minimal effort.

Read the in-depth review by BIKE (German version)!

Do you want to embark on your next down country adventure on the Cirex SL? Find out more!