Long-term Review: Haibike Heet RX 26″
Cash for cash: at 6499 Euros, the Haibike Heet RX 26” was one of the most expensive bike of our long-term test fleet – but at least the nicely designed carbon trail bike was equipped with carbon wheels, reducing the weight to only 11.4 kg.
Haibike has kept with the best-of-the-best feel and specified high-end products for the rest of the equipment: SRAM XX drivetrain (carbon crank), carbon cockpit, Magura’s MT8 stopper (also carbon), a RockShox Revelation fork, and a Monarch e.i shock. We were especially excited to test the e.i shock as its system promises to rapidly and automatically adjust the shock according to given circumstances – and it did, too.
The system scored, especially on trails with many ups and downs with frequent pedaling sections. The pedaling power was optimized with the shock, which would open when needed, avoiding speeding along rough trails with a rigid rear end– a real advantage, saving time and nerves. The only flaw of the otherwise futuristic system was the detachable control unit, which lost touch with the mounting again and again. The result: incorrect figures regarding speed and distance travelled, as well as a totally wide-open shock. Inconsistencies were also noted with the fitted Crankbrothers Kronolog seatpost – every now and then the saddle lowered due to the rider’s weight.
Everyone looking for a light and impressive trail bike, desiring a chassis that – once set up – performs its duties without additional assistance, is well off with the Haibike Heet RX. The chassis only stretches to its limits in extremely rough terrain.
You can read an in-depth feature about the long-term test and our conclusions in the previous ENDURO issue! As usual it’s free & only digital for iPad, Android-Tablets and Online-Viewer: Issue #007
Fotos & Text: Fabian Rapp