Singletracks is preparing a massive mid-travel mountain bike mashup for this fall, and we’ll be sharing previews of each test bike as they come in this summer ahead of the full video and written reviews. If there’s something you want to know about any of these bikes, ask us in the comments and we’ll find an answer before the leaves begin to tumble. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to get notified as soon as each video review drops.
The Vitus Escarpe 29 is a 140mm bike with a 150mm fork that smooths the trail for its carbon front triangle and alloy rear. The bike can be ordered directly from Chain Reaction Cycles (CRC), and the four sizes come in three different builds, with either 29″ or 27.5″ wheels. Our size medium test model has the larger wheels and mid-level build, retailing for $3,299. The entry level build sells for $2,699 while the top model goes for $4299; a frameset with a Fox Factory Float DPS shock can be had for $1,999.
For less than the price of some new frames, the Escarpe 29 CRS build includes a full Shimano SLX drivetrain, an SLX four-piston brake pinching a 203mm rotor up front and a two-piston caliper paired with a 180mm rotor at the rear. Those discs are bolted to a set of DT Swiss M1900 wheels, shod with Maxxis Assegai and Dissector tires with EXO+ casings and 3C MaxTerra tread compound. The 150mm fork is a RockShox Pike Select, with the Charge RC damper, and the shock is a Deluxe Select+. Many of the other components are branded Nukeproof, as that brand also sells direct via CRC. This medium includes a 150mm dropper, while the small takes a 125mm, and the L and XL frames get a longer 170mm of saddle movement.
Angles between these alloy and carbon tubes look spot on for a fun rip, with a 65° head tube angle, a proper pedaling 77° seat tube angle, a 451mm reach (medium), and 440mm chain stays across all sizes. With a few rides in, we can say that the bike feels well balanced between its large wheels, and at less than 15 kilos it doesn’t mind bouncing across the track.
We’ve still got a lot of beautiful summer rides to enjoy, so look forward to a deep dive into the Escarpe 29 CRS and other bikes in the field once the temperatures on our side of the equator start to drop.
