Lapierre 2011 Press Launch

The recent Lapierre 2011 Press Launch, held at Chatel in the French Alps, saw the introduction of several new gravity orientated models, including reworked Spicy and Froggy, but most importantly, a brand new DH bike.The new DH platform from Lapierre uses a completely new suspension technology called 'Pendbox'. Pendbox is designed to optimise suspension and pedalling efficiency - this is achieved by placing the main pivot in such a place so as to eliminate pedal bob, also by using the articulated, floating BB the chain can be kept taut to eliminate energy loss. To keep the suspension supple and sensitive the movement of the bottom bracket will also force the swingarm back intot the equilibrium, or sweet spot of the sag, therefore overcoming any initial resistance in the shock.

Lapierre DH-team with the new aftermarket Fox 40 Kashima forks.

The new bike has a 3.8kg frame weight and has already been ridden to a 4th place DH World Cup finish by Lapierre International rider, Sam Blenkinsop.

Danny Milner from MBR putting the DH-720 through its paces.

The Lapierre Froggy has also been given an overhaul for 2011. The fork has been uprated to a 180mm unit, and the rear end has also been given a 142x12mm bolt through axle to stiffen the rear end up, and also now gets a post mount brake set up. Spec changes also include chain devices on both models, with the 518 getting a single ring set up. An altogether more focussed and aggresive all mountain and freeride bike. A framekit will also be available which uses the new 'Supreme 6' alloy - a material which gives scandium like performance but without the fatigue and brittleness problems associated with Scandium.

The Lapierre Spicy also gets some significant upgrades for 2011, including a 142x12mm rear end, tapered headtube and internal cable routing from telescopic seatposts. The Spicy also returns to a threaded BB to facilitate Hammerschmidt fitting. Spec changes include wider, lower rise bars, shorter stems and 2x10 + chain device on the higher end 516 and 916. The 916 also gets a carbon rear triangle and Supreme 6 front triangle.

Spicy 516 with new 2x10 and kashima aftermarket forks.

2011 Zesty 914

This was specifically a gravity launch, so tests were focussed on the DH, Froggy and Spicy, but the 2011 Zesty was also on show - the major upgrade for 2011 being the tapered headtube - X-Control also gets a tapered head tube for 2011. Also on show were the new Rapt DJ/4x bikes - available in a steel budget version and a super clean alloy top end version.

Nice to have proper hills for a change! View from the chairlift in the Chatel Bike Park.