Full-suspension ‘downcountry’ bikes with carbon XC frames and lightweight trail capable kit are a definite thing and probably my favorite mountain bike genre. There are very few hardtail equivalents though, so I’ve was super keen to try Mondraker’s Chrono Carbon DC when it was announced in the autumn. Unfortunately, a seemingly confused component choice, surprisingly backward geometry and an unnecessary frame compromise means it struggles to deliver fully on its clear fast and fun potential.
