Many downhill parks across the country may be still covered in snow, but the start of the UCI DH World Cup season is just around the corner. That usually means it’s time to unveil the new hardware that companies like Devinci have been testing over the winter. Hardware like the new Devinci Wilson Carbon. Modeled after the current Devinci Wilson in aluminum (which already had carbon seat stays), the Wilson carbon is ready to carry you to your own DH victories…
One of the main reasons for going carbon seems to always revolve around making a frame that’s lighter weight. The Wilson carbon is lighter by just over a pound (0.5kg) compared to the Wilson 27.5 SL with the same spec, but that’s not the full story. More important than the weight reduction seems to be the ability to build on the Wilson’s asymmetrical design to create a frame that is not only lighter but also stiffer and quieter (which Devinci’s Julien Boulais points out is a big deal for their racers). With the main triangle and seat stays now using their DMC-G EPS molded carbon tech (carbon is wrapped around EPS foam mandrels for smooth internal walls and better compaction), the chainstays are still Canadian made aluminum for durability.
Sticking with the proven performance of the Split Pivot suspension system, the Wilson Carbon does benefit from a new shock position which is supposed to lower the center of gravity and prevent it from being covered in mud.
The Carbon Wilson also benefits from some slick integrated fork bumpers that serve as cable guides as well as integrated carbon skidplate for the downtube/BB junction and in molded rubber protection for the seat stay.
Even though the front triangle receives a carbon upgrade, many of the details remain unchanged. Things like 27.5″ wheels, a threaded SRAM GXP bottom bracket, and a 150x12mm thru axle rear end. Cable routing is a mix of internal and external with the rear brake remaining completely external for easy service.
Built with the same geometry as the Wilson 27.5, the Wilson Carbon will be offered in three builds at competitive prices. The XP 10s build starts at just $4659 with RockShox suspension and a SRAM X7 10 speed drivetrain. The RC 10s maintains the 10 speed drivetrain but bumps up to SRAM X9 with upgrades across the board, and the SL 7s maintains the World Cup level build with the SRAM 7s X01 DH drivetrain and WC level suspension for $7759. Available in S-XL frames, complete bike weights range from 39.77 lbs (18.04kg) to 35.98lbs (16.32kg).
