The Dune from the Spanish manufacturer Mondraker is one of the racing bikes on the market. A look at the data sheet is daunting. The dimensions are almost "monstrous" compared to other enduro bikes. The reach of 475mm (size M) and the flat steering angle of 66° seem impractical for the average cyclist on paper, but definitely only on paper. The frame is available in the same geometry in classic aluminum and carbon. The shock absorber is protected in bad weather by an integrated mudguard. The frame also offers enough space for a water bottle.
First Look
standard equipment
Frame: Mondraker Dune Al 6061, 160mm, with Forward Geometry and Zero Suspension System
Fork: Rock Shox Yari ,160mm, 15×110 mm thru axle
Shock absorber: Rock Shox Monarch Plus R
Brakes: Sram Level T
Wheels: MDK-EP1 27.5 23mm rim, MDK Disc Pro hub
Saddle: SDG FLY MTN
Tires: MAXXIS Ardent, 27.5 x 2.4, Single Compound 60TPI
Drivetrain: Sram NX Group 1×11
Seatpost: Onoff Notion 400mm
Grips: Onoff Diamond, 130mm
Handlebar: Mondraker 6061, 1“ Rise 780mm width
Weight: 13.8 KG
Changes in the test:
Seatpost: Kind Shock Dropzone 120mm stroke
Pedals: Shimano XT PD-M8000 XC
Grips: Ergon GE1 Slim
Handlebar: Bontrager Rhythm Elite, Flat, 810mm width
Set up:
Rock Shox Yari RC: 75 PSI, 3 clicks compression, 11 clicks rebound //Recommendation 63-72KG: 55-65 PSI
Rock Shox Monarch Plus R: 140 PSI, 10 clicks rebound // Recommendation 140-160 PSI
Admittedly, it takes a few descents to get used to the bike's unusual geometry. But after a short time, you won't want to let go of the bike. The very short stem (30 mm) in combination with the long top tube places the rider far back. This gives a lot of security and a good feeling on steep sections. Tuning tip: A flatter, wider handlebar brings even more downhill performance. Despite the long wheelbase, the bike is surprisingly agile in tight corners. The Zero Suspension System offers an almost drive-neutral floating rear end that leaves nothing to be desired on the trail, even during hard downhill blasting, but also during pedaling or uphill sections. If you want to leave the ground with the bike and fly through the air a bit, you should be aware of its length. The bike wants to be ridden actively, so you should position yourself loosely and work with your body when jumping. The only annoying thing is the non-adjustable seat post. The Rock Shox Monarch R Plus is easily accessible and can be adjusted without annoying fiddling. The Yari is a solid, simply constructed fork. It is easy to adjust and can be understood even by those who are not familiar with suspension. It offers the option of fitting 27.5" Plus tires and therefore looks very bulky with a standard tire.
The Maxxis Ardent tires installed are good all-round tires and offer good grip on hard, rocky ground. However, they quickly reach their limits on very loose ground. Tuning tip: Put a tire with a large tread on the front.
There is not much to say about the drivetrain. The modern 1 x 11 concept shifts quickly and directly. However, the frame does not offer the option of installing a front derailleur. This means that very untrained riders may have to resort to the leg lift on very steep hills. The brakes also do a good job.
Conclusion
The Mondraker Dune's great strength is its unique downhill performance, but it also does well uphill. The equipment is very solid and will please everyone from weekend riders to thoroughbred racers. Only the non-adjustable seat post needs to be changed.
Test conditions:
Gießen Dünsberg (498 m high)
Steep, technical trails with loose ground
Descent summit parking lot approx. 175 m
Weather: 14°C dry, slightly moist soil
The tester:
Maximilian Klinger
23 years old
rides downhill and enduro
1.78 m long and 72 kg heavy
