BH iLYNX+ TRAIL 8.7 Review

As a component giant, Shimano is mostly known for its dominant position in bicycle gears. But with the EP801, the Japanese are clearly showing that they can look beyond their own plate too. Even nasty steep sections are effortlessly climbed by the motor. The Shimano EP801 conveys a riding feeling. Fans of XXL tours are greatly restricted by the iLYNX+ TRAIL 8.7 , because of its low range.

The good Fox chassis confidently dampens small and medium bumps. Especially for heavy riders, the BH brakes could be a problem. With four pistons they only decelerate averagely. The drivetrain and components have a subordinate but not to be neglected importance when it comes to EMTB. Even the bike brand product managers know this and don't aim too high with mostly average components. When it comes to the geometry, BH does not go completely crazy. The head tube angle and reach values were chosen with care. The result: A balanced riding behaviour with a good combination of playfulness and straight-line stability. For additional points in downhill handling, the low bottom bracket integrates the rider well into the bike and pulls the centre of gravity down. Due to the short chainstays and the shallow seat angle , when climbing steep sections, it requires active weight shifting to prevent the front wheel from lifting. It's no use beating around the bush: the geometry of BH doesn't suit our taste. Competitors are closer to the cutting edge here. The deep bottom bracket can however lead to crank strikes in technical uphills and disrupt the climbing flow.