The Lowdown: Motobecane Fantom 6by6 27.5
With a street price of $1800, we were excited to try out the 6by6 to see if it was up to par with more expensive bikes with the same components. Like most Motobecane bikes, this one stands out as you add up the price of the components: Shimano XT drivetrain, RockShox Revelation fork, Ritchey cockpit, WTB wheels and tires. "What's the catch?" is the common question. Buyer are wary of the frame that all these parts hang on.
Well we're happy to report that the bike checked out just fine. The bottom bracket height is a bit high for us at 13.75 inches and the bike is a bit portly at 31 pounds. But otherwise testing went very well and this weight is on par at this price point. The suspension is active vertically and stiff laterally. The bike was responsive, and it held up in the big descents without complaint. The head and seat angles were just right at 67.5 and 73.5 respectively. For all-around trail riding, it definitely did the job. And at that price you'll likely have money left over for upgrades.