The all-new 2019 Simplon Razorblade XC hardtail has been made lighter, but also stronger and stiffer thanks to a few unique touches throughout the frame. The most eye-catching is the cable port that runs directly through the headset cap, feeding the cables between the steerer tube and the upper headset cap bearings. Why? Because this eliminates any extra holes in the front of the frame, letting them make it lighter and stiffer.
The cables actually run through a custom oversized compression washer inside the headset, using a port in the cover to access it. There are holes on either side of the stem, making room for two shifter cables, the rear brake hose and a dropper seatpost remote cable.
Underneath, they use a “knock block” lower headset cup to prevent the bars from twisting more than about 165º in either direction. This protects the frame and keeps the cables and hoses from getting wrecked.
Another unique touch is the finned drive side chainstay, a feature borrowed from their road bikes to make the bottom bracket area stiffer.
The top build will get the new Shimano XTR 1×12 group.
Two versions of the frame are offered, the 850g Razorblades SL shown in the top photos with the yellow trim, and the 1000g standard frame shown directly above in all black. The standard model will also come in a dark red paint scheme. They share the same molds and shapes, but the SL gets a different layup with more high modulus carbon fibers.
The Razorblade starts at €3,000 for a complete bike, and the SL at €3,900.
Gets a new aero extension system that allows angle adjustments and a new hydration tank up front with integrated computer mount. It’s made by Profile Design, but adapted to fit their stem combo. Angle adjustments are made via two screws under the arm rests.
Their Kagu trekking e-Bike will get a new Neodrive hub motor version (front/right) to slot in under the existing model with the Bosch drive system. It works a bit differently and runs quieter, meant as an alternative for people that want something mainly for around town.
What sets it apart from other similar looking bikes is its capacity. The frame is made to handle up to 160kg (353lb) including the rider, putting cargo on the front and the back with optional or third party racks.
On the left in the background is the all-new Step-Thru Kagu, which comes only with the Bosch Active Line Plus drive system. Both bikes are coming next year, starting around €4,500.
Haven’t heard of Simplon? They’re a European brand that lets you configure your bike however you want online, then pick it up at your local European dealer, as long as they’re in Germany, Austria, Switzerland or Great Britain.
