![\"Lauf](\"https:\/\/wp-media.bikehub.co.za\/production\/uploads\/2023\/02\/ccs-62657-0-30852500-1431935811.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/p>\nThe mechanics behind the Lauf are straightforward. Inspired by leaf suspension, it uses carbon shafts and twelve composite springs to suspend the front axle. I won’t pretend to have an understanding of the materials and construction techniques used to create the Lauf, but the naked carbon version we tested looks fantastic on the trail.<\/p>\n
The TR29 offers a mere 60mm of travel but comes in at a weight of around 990g (half a kilo lighter than conventional cross-country forks). The sub-kilogram weight does however come at cost. There is no rebound dampening or any kind of suspension adjustment. You simply have to pick between the regular fork (the fork we rode) which caters for riders over 65kg (topping out at 110kg) and the light fork which suits riders under 70kg.<\/p>\n
<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nAnother very appealing characteristic of the Lauf is that it requires zero maintenance. Not even a quick rinse after a ride is needed. Slap it on a single speed and you\u2019ll be unstoppable.<\/p>\n
The ride<\/h2>\n
The intention of the Lauf is to provide a lightweight option for cross-country riders. But how much can it really handle?<\/p>\n
Gravel roads<\/strong><\/p>\n The Lauf performed well on the jeep track and the mild single track found around Table Mountain. At first it felt a bit rigid but I soon grew accustomed to this and later completely forgot about the front end.<\/p>\n The reduced weight was instantly noticeable and appreciated on the climbs. The steering felt sharp and predictable.<\/p>\n The Lauf handled the relatively tame single track on Table Mountain admirably. It wasn\u2019t a magic carpet ride but I was satisfied with the way it handled the rocks and ruts.<\/p>\n I thoroughly enjoyed riding the Lauf on less technical rides. I found the downsides were negligible on gravel and smoother single track making it a serious consideration for this type of riding.<\/p>\n On the trails<\/strong><\/p>\n On technical rocky and rutted single track the control and comfort provided by the Lauf was poor.<\/p>\n The Lauf lacked composure on rough terrain. Due to the absence of dampening and the high spring rate, any succession of rocks, roots or ruts felt like I’d imagine operating a jackhammer to feel. Over dense rock gardens, I simply held on hoped I\u2019d smash through. My arms soon turned to putty. Half way down Cool Runnings at Welvanpas, a long open rutted descent, I have to admit that I pulled over for a quick breather.<\/p>\n It was during this shameful respite that I realised I was doing it all wrong. I needed to stop fighting the fork and adjust my riding style to suit it. I started becoming an active participant on the bike. I focussed even further ahead, cut my lines like a surgeon, and lifted and pumped the front wheel. This approach was hard work but it was rewarding and brought the Lauf to life.<\/p>\n Bike park<\/strong><\/p>\n We took the Lauf to Chris Nixon\u2019s bike park at Constantia Uitsig to take some photos. We inevitably found ourselves, and others, giving the bike a go. It turned out to be great fun on the pump track and proved to handle dirt jumps with ease.<\/p>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n