The first time we threw a leg over Bionicon’s variable-travel Edison was in 2005. Simply being an all-mountain bike with around six inches of travel does not make it special; however, what makes this rig unique is its ability to adjust travel and geometry on the fly for extended climbing and descending. Our latest Edison test bike marks the frame’s first major redesign since the bike’s inception five years ago, while the AeroLink suspension system remains basically the same. The new Edison frame features hydroformed seat stays that intersect with the downtube to support the rear shock mount. The tubing profiles are constructed to allow consistent flex and compliancy. 

Test quote: "The beauty of the AeroLink suspension is you can drop the front end of the Edison to your desired height when the trail turns uphill. The concept here is that lowering the front end will weight the front wheel, reducing its desire to wander, and keep the rider balanced in the center of the bike.”

Stoked:
On-the-fly adjustable geometry
A totally unique riding experience
That German ingenuity

Bummed:
Rear suspension firms under braking
Less rigid rear end than previous model

Bottom Line: Bionicon’s AeroLink suspension delivers on its promise of allowing a rider to customize his bike’s geometry and suspension travel to his ideal settings for climbing and descending. The Edison’s ability to let its rider remain balanced in the center of the bike at all times will be a completely new sensation for a true, weathered mountain biker. It will take a couple rides before you really appreciate the versatility of the Edison and learn to ride a mountain bike in an entirely new way.
(See full specs below)

BIONICON EDISON
Price...$3550
Country of origin...Germany
Weight...30.8 pounds
Hotline…www.bioniconusa.com
Frame tested… Medium
Bottom bracket height...15”
Chainstay length...17.25”
Top tube length..22.5”
Head angle...67.5-73°
Seat tube angle…67-72°
Standover height...32”
Wheelbase...45”
Suspension travel (front)...6”
Suspension travel (rear)...6”
Frame material...Aluminum
Fork...Bionicon Double Agent   
Shock…X Fusion 02 RL   
Rims...Alex SX44
Tires...Kenda Nevegal
Hubs...DT Swiss
Brakes...Formula K24
Brake levers...Formula
Crankset...Truvativ Stylo
Shifters...SRAM X.9
Rear derailleur...SRAM X.9
Chainrings...Truvativ (44/32/22)
Cassette...SRAM (11-34)
Pedals...Weighed with Shimano XT