Here are the first official shots of the new downhill frame from Australian firm Bilt Bikes. The Bilt Eight offers 203mm of travel via a linkage-tuned single-pivot suspension design. It's about to go into production after two years of testing and development.
A prototype version of the Taiwanese-made 6000 series aluminium frame has been put through its paces on the Aussie race circuit for the past couple of years. Rider feedback has led to the linkage being redesigned to give a more linear suspension feel and the swingarm being stiffened up through use of box sections.
Frame geometry is described as "low and slack". The stock head angle is 64 degrees and the Eight comes with a Cane Creek AngleSet that allows this to be adjusted by 1.5 degrees in either direction. Other features include a 73mm bottom bracket and 150mm rear hub spacing.
The frame will be available in black with red linkage or blue with black, with a satin anodised finish rather the painted finish in the photos. All-in weight as pictured is claimed at 16.9kg for the blue model and 16.8kg for the black. The frame is expected to retail for around US$2,700, with Cane Creek Double Barrel shock and AngleSet included. More information can be found on Bilt's website.
