Following the launch of the Sierra and Ridge platformsfor the Trail and All Mountain segments, the Veneto-based brand unveiledthe new Fantic Rhapsody MY27.
An entirely new Enduro platformdeveloped to deliver maximum control on the most demanding terrain,thanks to ahighly torsionally rigid frame, modern geometry and the Bosch Performance Line CX Gen5 motor.
The bike has been unveiled at theInternational Bike Festival in Misano.
As with the MY26 range,power comes from the Bosch Performance Line CX Gen5 motor, configurable up to120 Nm of torque, delivering powerful and responsive assistance even on the steepest climbs.Range is provided by an integrated 800 Wh battery, which can be expanded with a 250 Wh range extenderto comfortably tackle even longer rides.
Frame and geometry for modern Enduro
At the heart of the Rhapsody project is a carbon framedeveloped with one specific goal: to deliver maximum torsional rigidity without compromising suspension performance. Building on Fantic’s distinctiveCobra Design, the company’s R&D department has adopted solutions derived from the automotive and motorcycle sector – drawing on the parent company’s motocross know-how – to reinforce the areas subject to the highest loads and maximise stability.The result is a bike that remains more stable at high speeds, offers greater precision when choosing a line and performs more effectively when the terrain becomes rough and technical.
This design philosophy also guided theintegration of the battery into the frame. To preserve the structural rigidity of the entire bike,Fantic developed a custom battery extraction system that allows the battery to be removed from underneath.This solution retainsthe advantages of a frame with a fixed battery while offering all the practicality of a removable one.
The Rhapsody’s frame geometry has likewise been developed specifically around the demands of modern Enduro, with a more aggressive riding position and a setup designed to provide high-speed stability, precise handling and freedom of movement.
Advanced kinematics for maximum control
Particular attention has been paid to thekinematics of the rear suspension. As on the Sierra, the Rhapsody features aco-axial Horst pivot at the rear wheel.This solution allows braking forces to be decoupled from suspension movement.The result is a bike that can better track the terrain and adapt to changes in its profile, increasing traction, control and stability under braking, even through the most technical sections.
The new Fantic Rhapsody features a more progressive suspension system, with exceptional sensitivity in the initial part of the travel while remaining sufficiently supportive deeper into the stroke. This allows it to absorb heavy impacts and hard compressions, including those generated by landings after more technical jumps.
Rhapsody Leverage Ratio
Another key aspect is the reduction of pedal kickback, the unwanted rotation of the cranks that occurs as the suspension compresses. This is the unpleasant “kick” riders can feel through the pedals when landing after a jump. On the Rhapsody, this phenomenon is kept to an extremely low level, placing the bike among the best in its class.
Builds and specifications
The new Fantic Rhapsody will be available in three builds:
- Fantic Rhapsody Sport– recommended retail price starting from €6,490
- Fantic Rhapsody Race– recommended retail price starting from €7,990
- Fantic Rhapsody Factory– recommended retail price starting from €9,990
All models are equipped with a 180 mm travel fork: RockShox Domain Gold R on the Sport, RockShox ZEB Select on the Race and Fox 38 Factory on the Factory. The drivetrain also varies according to the specification, with SRAM Eagle 70 on the Sport, SRAM GX T-Type AXS on the Race and SRAM X0 T-Type AXS on the Factory.
At the rear, the Sport is equipped with a RockShox Deluxe Select shock, the Race with a RockShox Vivid, while the Factory is fitted with a Fox Float X2 Factory.
With the new Rhapsody, Fantic completes its e-MTB rangewith a platform dedicated to riders seeking the ultimate Enduro experience. A project built around one clear objective: to deliver maximum control on the most technical descents without sacrificing efficiency and riding enjoyment on climbs and during accelerations.
Source: Fantic Bikes
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