A Reynolds 725 steel frame – strong, dependable and relatively light – is at the heart of the bike. Like the best touring bikes, the Tour de Fer aims to capture the essence of packing up and heading for the wilderness in a stripped-back genesis mountain bike yet absolutely feature-loaded package. Before buying, all we have to do is to evaluate, these things include, what are the features, pros and cons, routine maintenance, and the accessories that come with it when you buy it.
This is a bike that will zip around town without a second thought. The Venerable Croix de Fer frameset has been a mainstay of the Genesis range since 2009. The frameset is incredible versatile and lends itself to a multitude of different builds.
Both share the same 1460g carbon Mantle frame that you can get alone for £1500. The 30T carbon frame gets full internal routing, Di2 internal battery clamp, a tapered headtube, PressFit BB, 31.6 seatpost, and Boost spacing. The complete bikes get built with 29er wheels, but the frame can also handle up to a 27.5 x 2.8″ tire, even with a front derailleur.
At a sniff the wrong side of two grand, it’s still great value and it’s a bike that brings massive potential for exploration and future fun-filled riding. The fork is made from chromoly steel and has a straight 1 1/8in steerer, and both the frame and fork genesis bicycles have quick-release dropouts rather than thru-axles. If you’re a petite woman, the Liv Tempt 4 would be an affordable option. If you prefer a wider range of speed options the Genesis 26″ V2100 Mountain Bike might be an entry-level bike worth trying.
The Mantle is the brand’s XC and endurance bike, and is a full carbon 29er hardtail with 100mm travel. The Genesis Tarn is a steel-framed short-travel hardtail with 120mm travel and 27.5in wheels, and is equipped with Maxxis Rekon tyres. You’ll find a range of materials used in Genesis bikes, though the brand is well loved for its steel offerings.