All Arround MTB

WHO IS DEAN LUCAS? Aussie young gun Dean Lucas is a racer who’s steadily been picking up momentum. After riding alongside Stevie Smith on Devinci World Racing, he joined Intense in 2016 and stepped onto the World Cup podium for the first time in Mont-Sainte-Anne, Canada, this summer. Although the weather played a part, it was still an absolutely blinding run. WHY’S IT SUPERBIKE? - One of only four alloy prototypes, each hand-welded by Intense Cycles’ head honcho, Jeff Steber - Designed specifically around the bigger wheels, unlike other DH 29ers that just use modified rear ends - Has achieved multiple podium finishes in its first year on the circuit Team-only race rig from the MTB equivalent of Ferrari With the likes of Shaun Palmer and Sam Hill having ridden for them, Intense Cycles have a prestigious history when it comes to downhill racing. Recently, the brand seemed to have faded from the limelight a bit. But not any more. This year has seen them back on the World

Slowly but surely it seems that most manufacturers are adding at least one plus-size bike to their line-up. Intense are the latest to back the wide(r) tyre trend with their new ACV trail bike.

California’s Intense Cycles have never been afraid to challenge convention and have made some highly sought-after machines over the years. Their latest ofering, the carbon Spider 275C trail bike, looks set to continue that tradition. While it’s relatively short on travel, Intense reckon its agile and aggressive ride feel makes it a “onebike quiver” that’s as at home on the descents as on long days in the saddle.

Short-travel trail bikes have always been a big part of the fun-seeking UK riding scene, and the new Spider 275 from Intense looks to fit the bill nicely. A reworked lower VPP link allows for short (419mm) chainstays that should give a fun and snappy cornering feel.

140/150mm (5.5/6in) of VPP2 rear suspension, 650b wheels , a burly frame and unmistakable Intense styling make the Tracer 275 one hell of a bike. The new T275 version ups the ante with subtle geometry changes that enhance its downhill capabilities and a switch to carbon fibre that sheds heaps of frame weight.