The ROSE PIKES PEAK makes a great impression on paper. Modern geometry, impeccable spec, fair price. So we’re good, right? But what counts in the end is the handling. Can the bike convince in that regard too?
For an overview of the test fleet head to the group test: Love at first sight – 8 enduro bikes under € 4,500 in Review
Nothing is more fun than building your own bike part by part – and that’s precisely what we did with the new ROSE PIKES PEAK EN. With ROSE’s online configurator you can configure the entire spec to your desires, and if an item isn’t available in the configurator, you can choose parts from their online shop. Another unique feature of the bike is the PROGEO system with which the geometry and progression curve of the rear end can be adjusted within a few seconds without having to completely dismantle any part.
Despite a robust build consisting of a RockShox Lyrik fork and a Super Deluxe shock, MAGURA MT5 brakes, DT-Swiss EX 1501 wheels and MAXXIS Minion DHR II tyres, our test bike weighed only 13.26 kg. The reason for this is the super light carbon frame,if you pushs down on the top tube with your thumb you will feel that the wall thickness is very thin.
Let’s get rowdy! With the ROSE you can really get loose, as long as you know what you’re doing!
The ROSE Pikes Peak 2 EN in detail
Fork RockShox Lyrik RCT3 160 mm
Shock RockShox Super Deluxe 155 mm
Brakes Magura MT5 200/180 mm
Drivetrain SRAM X01 Eagle
Seatpost RockShox Reverb Stealth
Stem Race Face Aeffect 50 mm
Handlebar Race Face Turbine R 800 mm
Tires Maxxis Minion DHR II 2,3″
Wheels DT Swiss EX1504 Spline One
Weight 13.26 kg
Price € 4,306
The adjustment of the PROGEO system works with only one Allen key, there are no loose parts, and the change is clearly noticeable – thumbs up!
The internally routed cables are not clamped at the inlet. Nevertheless, we didn’t notice any rattling.
The extra brace increases the stiffness of the rear end, though it isn’t pretty
The MAGURA MT5 brake impresses with masses of power and good modulation
The geometry of the ROSE Pikes Peak 2 EN
| Size (Enduro setup) | S | M | L |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top tube | 591 mm / 594 mm | 616 mm / 619 mm | 646 mm / 649 mm |
| Head tube | 110 mm | 115 mm | 125 mm |
| Head angle | 66.5° / 65.6° | 66.5° / 65.6° | 66.5° / 65.6° |
| Seat angle | 75° / 74° | 75° / 74° | 75° / 74° |
| Chainstays | 430 mm | 430 mm | 430 mm |
| BB Drop | 2/14 mm | 2/14 mm | 2/14 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1166 mm / 1168 mm | 1192 mm / 1194 mm | 1222 mm / 1224 mm |
| Reach | 432 mm / 422 mm | 455 mm / 445 mm | 482 mm / 472 mm |
| Stack | 432 mm / 422 mm | 455 mm / 445 mm | 482 mm / 472 mm |
Climbing, the PIKES PEAK doesn’t display mountain goat behaviour despite its low weight – at least not in the slack setting we used for the descents. What helps is either pushing the saddle forward or adjusting the PROGEO system. After a short test, we decided on the former. That’s the only time we used the adjustment system. When descending we were impressed with the very potent rear end. It feels very plush and absorbs bumps with confidence. The long front triangle gives the rider lots of room to move, but in combination with the short rear end, it requires a very active riding style to keep enough weight on the front wheel when cornering. Riders who like to engage with their bike will appreciate the PIKES PEAK. Less experienced riders, however, might feel out of their depth. If in doubt, it is worthwhile choosing the smaller frame size. When things get fast, and the hits get big, all you have to do is grip the handlebar a little tighter and give in to the rush of speed. Your weight is well integrated into the bike, always letting you keep control of the situation. In berms and on rollers the rear linkage offers enough support, and generally, the PIKES PEAK cuts a good figure on machine-built bike park trails.
Tuningtip:
– Select MAXXIS tyres in 2.5″ width
Conclusion
The ROSE PIKES PEAK is a bike that needs to be ridden with vigour. Calm riders will quickly feel overwhelmed by this bike. However, for active riders, it’s a bike that loves to go fast and yet on tight sections still behaves with agility and directness.
Strenghts
+ great rear linkage
+ efficient, simple geometry adjustment
+ excellent value for money
Weaknesses
– climbing is only a means to an end
– requires an active riding style
Uphill | Downhill | Stability | Agility | Value for money
For more information head to: rosebikes.de
The test fleet
For an overview of the test fleet head to the group test: Love at first sight – 8 enduro bikes under € 4,500 in Review
All bikes in test: COMMENCAL META AM 29 Team Replica | CUBE Stereo 150 C:68 TM 29 | Giant Reign SX | Norco Range C3 29 | Nukeproof Mega 290 Factory | Trek Slash 9.7 | YT CAPRA 29 CF PRO
This article is from ENDURO issue #034
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