Subaru-Gary Fisher team riders have a new full-suspension race machine in their quiver to replace the Race Day.
The new HiFi XC is not only lighter at a claimed 2350g with shock and hardware (the Race Day was approximately 2400g) but also 29 percent stiffer overall. Much of the improvement comes courtesy of a new asymmetrical carbon-and-aluminium co-moulded rear end; the front triangle is a more conventional hydroformed and double-butted 6066 aluminium unit.
Not surprisingly, the single-pivot HiFi XC is based on Gary Fisher's successful HiFi Trail platform but with several key differences. Travel has been reduced to a more race-friendly 90mm in the rear and a firmer mid- and end stroke offers a snappier feel under power. The front centre dimension has also been lengthened while the head tube has been shortened to yield a more aggressive rider position. Saddle setback has also been increased roughly 15mm.
Our Procaliber tester sits at the top of the heap and is equipped with an assortment of high-end goodies, including a Shimano XTR crankset, SRAM X.0 trigger shifters and rear derailleur, Avid Juicy Ultimate brakes, a plethora of Bontrager Race X Lite bits and Fox Racing Shox suspension front and rear.
Total weight on our medium-sized tester is an encouraging 10.7kg (23.6lb) without pedals. Now we just need the trails to dry out a bit!
Price: US$5499.99