Feature

Pro Bike Check: Alex Lupato’s MDE Bikes Damper 650B

13.10.2015
by

If the Enduro World Series was looking for a strong Italian vibe at the final round in Finale Ligure, Alex Lupato was the perfect representative. The 3 time Italian Enduro Champion was riding on an Italian bike in, yes you guessed it…Italy.

We stopped the FRM factory racing rider to have a chat about his MDE Bikes Damper – which is proudly produced in Italy and kitted out with Italian components. Alex had a difficult weekend in Finale after injuring his shoulder in Spain the weekend before, meaning he couldn’t ride at 100%.

Alex and his MDE Damper.
Alex and his MDE Damper.
Alex and brother Denny have been battling together for a long time!
Alex and brother Denny have been battling together for a long time!
Alex runs a Marzocchi 053 rear shock which is activated by an 'I-link' suspension layout.
Alex runs a Marzocchi 053 rear shock which is activated by an ‘I-link’ suspension layout.
A Marzocchi 350 NCR with an Italian 'Espresso' coating keeps the front end nice and plush.
A Marzocchi 350 NCR with an Italian ‘Espresso’ coating keeps the front end plush and aggressive.
Alex runs FRM's Titan Carbon Enduro hubs.
Alex runs FRM’s Titan Carbon Enduro hubs.
The hubs are laced to FRM's Titan Carbon EN 130 rims which have been paired with Maxxis Highrollers ii.
The hubs are laced to FRM’s Titan Carbon EN 130 rims which have been paired with Maxxis Highroller II tires.
The cockpit is kitted out with FRM components, including their titanium HS-G50 stem.
The cockpit is kitted out with FRM components, including their titanium HS-G50 stem.
SRAM guide brakes provide Alex with the stopping power.
SRAM guide brakes provide Alex with the stopping power.
The shifting is kept crisp by SRAM X1 shifters and rear mech.
The shifting is kept crisp by SRAM X1 shifters and rear mech.
The FRM CU3 cranks are equipped with FRM's N-C Power chainring. For extra security Alex runs the carbon KCU chainguide.
The FRM CU3 cranks are equipped with FRM’s N-C Power chainring. For extra security Alex runs the carbon KCU chainguide.
The bike's weight is around 13.8kg.
The bike’s weight is around 13.8kg.

You can keep up to date with Alex by checking out his Facebook page. More information about his Damper can be found on MDEBIKES.com and the majority of his components on FRMBIKE.com

Words & Photos: Ross Bell

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