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MOUNTAINBIKE test report on the Cirex SL

23.03.2022 |Bikes & Tests

Its low weight and a propulsion-oriented frame design make the Cirex SL the perfect bike for moderate trails. Read the test report!

The SIMPLON Cirex SL tested by MOUNTAINBIKE

Easy come, easy ride

A balanced suspension setup meets an extremely lightweight carbon frame, combined with spirited and yet weightless acceleration and propulsion: On the SIMPLON Cirex SL, you’ll go uphill with ease – the testers of MOUNTAINBIKE magazine are convinced of that.

Why the SIMPLON Cirex SL impresses cyclists

The next generation of the SIMPLON Cirex SL has shed another 200 grams compared to its already lightweight predecessor. The optimised carbon fibres are responsible for the added reduction in weight. This makes the Cirex SL the lightest full-suspension bike in the test and a lucky loser, so to speak – only in terms of weight, of course. The DT-Swiss wheels are made of carbon as well.

Details

The testers of MOUNTAINBIKE magazine tested the following configuration of the bike:

  • frame: carbon in size L
  • shifting system: Shimano XT shift and drive group
  • brakes: Shimano XT (M8100) 180/160 mm
  • suspension fork: Fox 34 SC Factory
  • rear shock: Fox Float DPS Factory
  • wheels: DT Swiss XRC 1200 Spline
  • tyres: Schwalbe Racing Ray / Racing Ralph Super Race Speed 29 x 2.25"
  • Vario seatpost: Kind Shock Lev Integra (150 mm)

In terms of suspension travel, mountain bikers can choose between the following full-suspension versions:

  • 100 mm fork travel / 100 mm rear travel
  • 120 mm fork travel / 116 mm rear travel (down-country version)

On the test bike, a decision was made for the down-country option. The result of MOUNTAINBIKE’s configuration: a super-lightweight Cirex, weighing in at only 10.4 kilograms.

SIMPLON tip: Do you want to know how down-country bikes like the Cirex differ from cross-country bikes? Read our magazine article to find out all about this bike category.

Et voilà: On to the summit with ease!

With 471 millimetres of reach and a top tube length of 627 millimetres, the frame of the Cirex SL is relatively long compared to the competition. The steering angle is flat, but the seat angle is steep. The geometry and the kinematics of the rear triangle in combination with the lightweight wheels and tyres help the rider climb the highest summits quickly and with ease. Another advantage results from the longer reach in combination with the flat steering angle: The rider benefits from more safety and control downhill, and obstacles are less of a “bump in the road”.
 

The testers’ verdict: the best choice for moderate trails

Just as easily as the full-suspension bike lets you go uphill, mountain bikers will opt for this bike if they like to ride moderate trails. On the Cirex SL, moderately difficult routes can be completed without unnecessary weight and at maximum speed.

SIMPLON tip: If you are looking for a mountain bike for particularly demanding terrain, check out the Rapcon!

Go to the detailed report by MOUNTAINBIKE!

Do you want to read more success stories about the Cirex or the Cirex SL? In our test reports section, you will find more reviews from renowned bicycle magazines.

Svenja B.
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