Back Issue | Group Test: GT Helion CRB Team Review
Having presented new models in the 130-150mm suspension range last year, it was high time for GT to give its short-travel models a makeover. The result is the completely new GT Helion, which replaces the well-known Zaskar models.
We had a chance to take a closer look at the newcomer in GT’s lineup.
This Test is part of a group test of six fast Cross Country Trail Bikes. Click here for the Main Article. Bikes in this Group test: Canyon Lux 9.9 SL | Ghost AMT Lector 2990 | GT Helion CRB Team | Rose Thrill Hill 3 | Scott Spark 900 RC | Specialized Epic FSR Elite
Visually, the Helion CRB Team fits perfectly with the rest of the Americans’ product range. This is due on the one hand to the distinctive and GT-typical black-yellow colour scheme, and on the other to the frame’s shape, which is similar to the new Sensor and Force models. The shock is positioned horizontally above the bottom bracket and is activated by GT’s Pathlink linkage system. This itself is integrated with the bottom bracket, which should create an active yet drivetrain-neutral suspension system.
In terms of spec, the GT leaves little room for upgrades. The parts are well considered and coherent. The high-quality feel of the Race Face parts particularly enamored the testers. Shimano’s XTR groupset dealt with shifting and braking duties on the Helion CRB Team.
The wheels were made up of light DT Swiss 240s hubs and high-end Stan’s NoTubes Crest rims, a combination which ensures easy fitting of tubeless tyres and (based on our experience) a long trail lifespan.
We felt instantly at home aboard the GT. The position is typical for an aggressive trailbike — slightly stretched out and race-ready. On climbs this guarantees plenty of weight over the front wheel. The rear end transfers almost all of the rider’s energy into forward momentum, yet it remains fully active over impacts and gives phenomenal traction on rough trails. The bar-mounted CTD lever was almost completely ignored.
On downhills the GT Helion CRB Team really shines. The bike feels solid on the trail and feels like it has much more than the quoted 110mm of rear wheel travel.
A smooth end-progression effectively prevents bottoming out. The handling is equally convincing on fast, rough descents or slow, tight sections. Aboard the Helion you always stay safely on course. The bike feels precise and can be accelerated out of corners like no other in the group — trail fun is guaranteed.
Vacuum cleaner –
The high-end Fox 32 Float Factory almost hoovers up impacts and ensures plenty of front wheel traction. Yet it doesn’t plunge down on steep descents or when braking, keeping the geometry stable.
Worry free –
The high-end Stan’s NoTubes Crest rims and light DT Swiss 240s hubs have proven themselves on countless test wheels. Long-term trail fun and low maintenance are a given.
Two part –
The new Pathlink on the GT Helion is made of two components. This makes it light and simplifies manufacturing. The Pathlink serves as suspension linkage and houses the bottom bracket.
Finest Parts –
The Race Face cockpit won many friends. The 740 mm wide Next 35 bars give every pilot full control. If you really want to let ‘er rip on the downhills, swap the 80 mm Race Face Turbine stem for a model with 60 mm length.
Conclusion:
with the new Helion CRB Team, GT has landed a winner for the new season. This bike is simply plain fun on the trails. Steep climbs or demanding downhills, the versatile GT performs everywhere. This superb-handling bike is a worthy test winner!
Weight: 12.05 kg
Price: € 5.499
Specifications
- Fork: Fox 32 Float Factory Kashima
- Rear Shock: Fox Float CTD Kashima
- Drivetrain: Shimano XTR
- Brakes: Shimano XTR
- Handlebars: Race Face Next 35 740mm
- Stem: Race Face Turbine 35 80mm
- Tires: Schwalbe Nobby Nic / Continental X-King 2,2
- Wheels: Felgen: Stan’s NoTubes Crest Naben: DT Swiss 240s
- Seatpost: RockShox Reverb
Geometry
Size: Medium | Top Tube Horizontal: 606mm | Seat Tube Angle: 73° | Chainstay Length:438mm | Head Tube Angle: 69,5° | Wheelbase: 1190mm| Reach: 403 mm | Stack: 574mm | Wheelsize: 27,5″
This Test is part of a group test of six fast Cross Country Trail Bikes. Click here for the Main Article. Bikes in this Group test: Canyon Lux 9.9 SL | Ghost AMT Lector 2990 | GT Helion CRB Team | Rose Thrill Hill 3 | Scott Spark 900 RC | Specialized Epic FSR Elite
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