Gérard Vroomen, Cervelo co-founder and owner of Open Cycle, published a blog post on his company’s website today with updates on the development of several new models, including the company’s first full-suspension mountain bike, which features an interesting suspension layout.
The frame uses a Horst-Link suspension system with a rather unconventional rear shock placement that is similar in execution to the Liteville 301.
While Vroomen didn’t delve into many specifics about the new model, the high shock position along with the angled down tube are very likely features intended to allow the frame to carry two water bottles within the front triangle.
The CAD drawing also shows that the yet-to-be-released frame will use a direct high mount front derailleur and post mounts for the rear brake positioned on the chainstay, just behind the rear pivot.
Given the presumed emphasis on water-bottle positioning, and the company’s expertise in producing lightweight carbon frames, it is very likely that this new model will be targeted at marathon cross-country racing.
As for whether it is designed around 27.5 or 29in wheels, we will have to wait and see. Vroomen wrote in his post that Open is aiming to have a prototype sample ready by next week’s Eurobike tradeshow.
BikeRadar will be covering Eurobike next week, so stay tuned for more details on this any many other new bikes.
