BH Bikes ULTIMATE EVO 8.5

The "ULTIMATE EVO 8.5" model from "BH Bikes", released in 2022, offers a wide range of high-quality components and technical features that make it an outstanding mountain bike. Priced at EUR 4,099, this bike is positioned in the premium segment and is aimed at ambitious riders who value quality and performance.

The bike’s maximum load capacity is 140 kg, whilst its kerb weight is just 10 kg. This enables excellent handling and control, particularly in challenging riding conditions. The brakes are fitted with Shimano XT 180mm discs, both front and rear, and are operated by Shimano XT brake levers. This combination ensures reliable and powerful braking performance.

The bike’s drivetrain consists of a Shimano XT 8100 12-speed system, controlled by Shimano XT 8100 shifters. This guarantees precise and rapid gear changes. The crankset is also a Shimano XT 8100 with a length of 175 mm and a 34-tooth chainring, whilst the cassette offers a range from 10 to 51 teeth, allowing for a wide variety of gear ratios.

The ULTIMATE EVO 8.5’s fork is a Fox 34SC Factory with 100 mm of travel and Push to Lock Kabolt technology, which ensures excellent damping and stability. The bottom bracket is also from Shimano, contributing to the high overall quality of the drivetrain.

The handlebars are BH SL Top Flat, 780 mm wide with a 10 mm rise, which promotes a comfortable and ergonomic riding position. The grips are BH Control Grips, which offer a secure grip. The stem is a BH FIT with a length of 60 mm, a diameter of 31.8 mm and a tilt angle of -6º.

The headset is an Acros ICR FIT with an angle of 36/45° and a Block Lock function up to 160°, which offers additional safety. The rims are Race Face Aeffect TLR, 27 mm wide with 32 spoke holes, fitted with Maxxis Ardent EXO 2.25 tyres at the front and Maxxis Ikon EXO 2.25 tyres at the rear. The hubs are Shimano MT400 at the front and Shimano MT410 at the rear, combined with Inox 2.0 spokes.

The saddle is a Prologo Scratch M5, mounted on a BH SL seatpost with a diameter of 31.6 mm and a length of 420 mm. The saddle clamp is integrated, creating a clean, uncluttered look. The bike’s geometry comprises a reach of 455 mm, a stack of 624 mm and a seat tube length of 460 mm.

In summary, the ULTIMATE EVO 8.5 offers a well-thought-out, high-quality spec package that is suitable for both ambitious amateur riders and professional use. The combination of high-quality Shimano components, a robust Fox fork and other top-class parts makes this bike an excellent choice for discerning mountain bikers.