Almost a year after the launch of the Grid, Simplon presents the Array, an aluminium clone. The frame shape and geometry are based on the versatile carbon gravel racer. However, thanks to the robust construction of the chassis and not least the numerous luggage options, the Array has a clearer focus on everyday use and bikepacking. The frame set features a total of 14 mounting points for bags and the like, and the aluminium bike can also be retrofitted with a luggage rack and fixed mudguards. The Array does not have an integrated storage compartment like the Grid.
The frame is neatly finished, but weighs in at 1950 grams (size M). In combination with simple add-on parts, Simplon quotes complete wheel weights of between 10.2 and 11.0 kilograms. The maximum tyre clearance is a generous 50 millimetres, and the Array rolls on 45 millimetre wide Schwalbe tyres ex works. In addition to the tyres, a long seatpost extension (aluminium) and a special shape of the fork and dropouts (carbon) are designed to smooth out bumps. Like the Grid, the aluminium counterpart can also be optionally retrofitted with a suspension fork with a maximum stroke of 40 millimetres.
Simplon Array: The most important facts
- Weight of complete wheel: from 10.2 kilogrammes
- Frame weight: 1,950 grams (size M)
- Stack/Reach/STR: 599/398 millimetres/1.51
- Max. tyre clearance: 50 millimetres
- Max. system weight: 130 kilogrammes
- Prices: 1999 to 2799 Euro
Simplon illustrates that the Array is a solid basis for leisurely rides on gravel tracks or in city traffic with another model variant: the Array 365 is orientated towards so-called urban bikes with straight handlebars, mudguards, pannier rack, lighting system and side stand. The add-on parts add up to a total weight of at least 13.0 kilograms.
Simplon Array: Equipment and prices
The gravel version of the Array is available in three pre-configured equipment variants at market launch. Prices range from € 1999 for the basic model with Shimano Cues (2x10) to € 2799 for the top model with SRAM Apex XPLR AXS (1x12). All versions are fitted with simple aluminium wheels from DT Swiss. Simplon also offers the option of customising the gravel bike in its own configurator. Among other things, the fork, wheels and seat post can be selected. The Array 365 is available at prices between 2499 and 2999 euros. The lighting system, which is powered by a hub dynamo, comes from Busch & Müller.
Array Core
- Drive/gear shift: Shimano Cues (2x10; 46/32, 11-39 t.)
- Tyres: Schwalbe G-One Overland (45 mm)
- Impellers: DT Swiss Gravel LN
- Weight: 11.0 kilogramme
- Price: 1999
Array Expert
- Drive/gear shift: Shimano GRX 610 (2x12; 46/30, 11-36 t.)
- Tyres: Schwalbe G-One Overland (45 mm)
- Impellers: DT Swiss Gravel LN
- Weight: 10.2 kilogrammes
- Price: 2499
Array Ultimate
- Drive/gear shift: SRAM Apex XPLR AXS (1x12; 40, 11-44 t.)
- Tyres: Schwalbe G-One Overland (45 mm)
- Impellers: DT Swiss Gravel LN
- Weight: 10.3 kilogrammes
- Price: 2799
Julian Schultz
Editor
