Issue: February 2002, pg. 88
Price: 1800: frame & shock ($3300 as tested)
Purpose: Dual-suspension trailbike
Contact: Mount Gretna Bikes (717) 964-1836
C Value
C Weight: 26.3 pounds
A Frame design
B Fork performance: Rock Shox SID 100 Hydra Air, 3.9" travel
B Rear suspension: Rock Shox SID XC, Adjustable 4" or 4.5"
B Component selection
C Climbing performance
B Cornering ability
B Descending prowess
Test highlights: The Bergwerk is custom built in Germany with a high degree of passion for detail. The Rock Shox suspension is highly adjustable and gives the rider infinite tuning options. The quick and tight steering is moderated by a stable, fully active, four-bar rear end. The Bergwerk responds and feels active with an aggressive rider aboard, yet he can sit, relax and lackadaisically cruise over bumps after fatigue sets in. The suspension linkage is built to last -- each pivot rides on a burly, sealed cartridge bearing. The two problems we had with our test bike where a failed piston in the SID 100 and a weak seatpost QR.
Best quote: "The Faunus is a handcrafted trail bike that is more works-like than any of the alphabet brands. We found it to be a sturdy, straight-shooting and sharp-turning trail bike with a wild play-bike flair."
MBA's Bottom line: Germany's take of freeriding is aggressive trekking. The Faunus makes for a great trail bike that won't balk at being jumped and thrashed. It has a one-off, custom look and feel (because it is custom), but is available to you at a pleasing retail price.
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