At just $2000, this bike a solid value for new CX racers or cross town commuters (click to enlarge).
The Lowdown: Motobecane Fantom Cross Team Ti
Most associate Motobecane with antiquated French steel or budget road bikes available via BikesDirect.com. But there is more to the story. The Fantom Cross line has been popular among beginner cyclocross races for quite a few years, and for good reason. The titanium model equipped with full Ultegra 6800 11-speed weighs just 19.5 pounds out of the box (49cm sans pedals and reflectors) and is an excellent choice for someone looking for a capable cyclocross race bike without breaking the bank. It would also make a great commuter bike or touring setup.
| Frame: Vari-Butted Titanium | Handlebar: Ritchey Biomax Comp Alloy |
| Fork: Motobecane Alloy Crown Carbon | Stem: Ritchey Pro Alloy 31.8mm OS clamp |
| Drivetrain: Ultegra 6800 11-speed | Headset: FSA IS2 Sealed Bearing |
| Cranks: Shimano Ultegra 6800 | Brakes: Avid BB7 Mechanical Disc Brakes |
| Cassette: Shimano Ultegra 6800 | Sizes: 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61, 64cm |
| Chain: Shimano 6800 11-speed | Color: Brushed Titanium w/ Clear Coat |
| Wheels: WTB TCS Tubeless | Weight: 19.5 pounds |
| Tires: Continental Cyclocross Race 700x35C | MSRP: $4995 ($2,000 via BikesDirect.com) |
| Saddle: Ritchey Pro Streem | Rating:
|
| Seatpost: Ritchey Pro Streem 27.2mm x 300mm |
Pluses | Minuses |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
|
Full Review: Motobecane Fantom Cross Team Ti
Most associate Motobecane with the early 1900's French manufacturer of two-wheeled machines. Motobecane USA has no relation to the French company. Instead they're known for an array of bikes available via BikesDirect.com boasting extremely low price points for both entry level and higher end builds, the 2015 Fantom Cross Team Titanium among them.
The full Shimano Ultegra mechanical drivetrain highlights the parts spec (click to enlarge).
Equipped with full Ultegra 6800 11-speed, mechanical disc brakes, and rear rack mounts, this is a great all-around bike. Whether you want to test its limits in a cyclocross race, grind gravel, or putz around town the Fantom Cross is more than capable. And you really can't argue with the price. MSRP is $4995, but it's sold via Bikesdirect.com for $2000.
The cockpit is run of the mill, but we dig the extra brake levers for emergency situations (click to enlarge).
Those (such as myself) familiar, but not experienced, with Motobecane's lineup may be apprehensive to trust in the Fantom Cross being a solid all-around cyclocross bike, but after testing the beefy, but light Fantom on the road, gravel, and even singletrack I'm pretty convinced you could ditch your current cross bike and commuter bike and be perfectly happy with just the Fantom.
The 49cm model sans pedals and reflectors weighs 19.5 pounds, which is a reasonable number, especially at this price point. From the moment you toss your leg over the saddle, the compliancy and quickness of the frame is felt thanks to the Ti tubing and carbon fork. Shouldering the bike is a breeze - the top tube is shaped with an indented, flat lower section so it lies on your shoulder comfortably.
Shoulder friendly top tube for carrying (click to enlarge).
The full Ultegra 6800 11-speed group is by far the biggest selling point on this bike. Often, when 'budget' bikes have high-end components, they cut corners on certain parts such as crankset or front derailleur. This year's Ultegra 11-speed is light, durable, and responsive. The 'cross gearing (46x36 for the 170mm cranks, 11-32T cassette) is super versatile. It was rare to spin out on the road and there was plenty of gearing options for steep, dirt climbs. It shifts well under load - perfect for a bike with loaded panniers or a cyclocross course with rapid terrain changes.
The rest of the components - from brakes to wheelset to cockpit - are a mixed bag, but generally quite good given the cost. The Avid BB7's mechanical disc brakes aren't our favorite since only one pad moves it creates a feeling of limited power. However, riders not experienced with disc brakes will be pleased with the feeling over rim brakes.
The carbon Motobecane fork with alloy crown (click to enlarge).
The wheelset is a big improvement from previous Fantom Cross models. The tubeless-ready WTB Frequency rims laced to Gravity hubs are plenty stiff, but not cumbersome. Don't be afraid to bunny hop barriers or shred some rock gardens, these wheels can handle it (especially with the beefy 35C Continental Cyclocross Race tires).
The full Ritchey alloy cockpit and seatpost is run-of-the-mill. There's nothing wrong with it per se, but an upgraded carbon seatpost and handlebar would definitely increase the performance and comfort of the ride, whether racing or touring. For commuting, there's no reason to worry about upgrading.
The bottom line? Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned cyclocross racer, the Fantom Cross Team Ti is a great bike considering the price point. For $2000 you get a light titanium frame, a full Ultegra 6800 11-speed group, and a solid WTB tubeless wheelset. Considering this bike is a complete all-arounder, it's a deal to consider. Race it in the winter/fall, take a tour in the summer, and commute year around.
For more information www.bikesdirect.com.
 |  |  |  |
 |  |  |  |
 |
