FORESTAL E-CYGNUS DIODE

€11,299 This pricey pedal-assist downcountry bike should be called the Enigma

- Luke Marshall

The e-Cygnus is Andorran brand Forestal’s downcountry e-bike.

It has a carbon fibre frame, 29in wheels and 120mm of travel front and rear, with pedalling assistance provided by a mid-power Bosch Performance SX motor and 400Wh battery.

This bike impressed and frustrated me in equal measure. Its niche character - not many e-MTBs have this little suspension - means it suits some trails (or riders) exceptionally well. But its short travel and underpowered brakes are a speed-restricter on rougher descents.

THE FRAME

Built using Forestal's ‘Alpha Box’ construction, the monocoque carbon fibre chassis features headset cable routing and a steering limiter to prevent the handlebar from causing frame or cable damage in the event of a crash, along with a bottle mount and an integrated mudguard to protect the linkage and shock. It's also designed to accept electronic suspension systems, such as RockShox’s Flight Attendant.

Forestal’s Twin Levity suspension platform combines a single-pivot swingarm with a linkage-driven shock. Each frame size boasts a custom shock tune and suspension kinematics, to help ensure every rider enjoys the exact same riding experience.

The frame geometry prioritises agility and efficiency. My size-large test bike had a 67° head angle, which is slack enough to give confidence on technical descents, yet sharp enough for precise steering on tight singletrack. The 76° seat tube angle keeps you centred on climbs and flowing trails, while the 470mm reach provides stability without sacrificing responsiveness, especially when paired with the low 611mm stack height. Lengthy 448mm chainstays are needed to accommodate the Bosch motor but should aid traction and composure under power. The 455mm seat tube length accommodates a long enough dropper post to help with manoeuvrability on descents.