Radon has made a name for itself primarily with attractively priced bikes for everyone. Noblesse has not necessarily been the core competence of the manufacturer from near Bonn. That's why we are amazed when we pull the Tigard out of the box. The gravel bike that the parcel deliverer has pushed in front of our feet looks incredibly high-quality. Okay, one or two hardliners may turn up their noses: they would probably have preferred "Moots" or "Prova" on the down tube. But even our critical editorial colleagues are impressed by the matt titanium frame. This is the most expensive non-motorised Radon bike on the market. Nevertheless, the ratio of equipment quality, weight and style is convincing. For a similar ratio, other suppliers quickly charge 1000 euros more.
This very special Radon also comes with a lifetime guarantee on the impeccably finished frame. Our test rides soon confirmed our initial impression: the Tigard is a beautiful bike with beautiful equipment that also rides beautifully. As stylish as the look is with its massive light alloy tubes and fully integrated cable routing, the rider sits stylishly upright on the bike. The long carbon cockpit unit does not manage to compensate for the shortest reach of the test group. The Tigard also shares the record stack with the Salsa. This results in a very comfortable riding position that suits the dignified personality of the titanium Graveler. The Radon favours relaxed leisure tours rather than a full-throttle race against the clock. Although the Continental tyres roll quickly on the elegant, aerodynamic all-road wheels from Mavic, the relaxed position in the saddle does not necessarily encourage maximum pressure on the pedals. Pleasure cycling instead of competitive ambition is the order of the day.
Premium bike at a discounter price
A thickly padded Ergon saddle conceals the stiff carbon seatpost. Despite the seat tube diameter, the bike is not approved for a telescopic model, nor for a suspension fork. However, mudguards, pannier rack and even the cable for a hub dynamo can be integrated separately into the appearance. With the only double crankset in the test field and a cassette that would also look good on a road bike, the Tigard has finely graduated gear steps. This also harmonises perfectly with its civilised character. Especially because the electronic Di2 gearbox makes shifting a pleasure. However, Radon opted for the wired version with a battery integrated into the seat post. In our opinion, the new wireless Shimano would have suited the carefree claim of a titanium bike better. We also wished for an even lighter gear on steep gravel ramps.
On the other hand, the powerful brakes with a large 180 mm front disc are the best in the test. If the surface gets rougher, the Tigard still falls behind many current gravel bikes. The geometry is too conservative with a steep steering angle and compact wheelbase. The one-piece control centre and high-profile wheels are very stiff. As a result, the Radon tends to skip on root tracks and is much more strenuous to ride than the off-road specialists from Giant or Propain. Given the choice, the lightweight bike would rather float gracefully through gentle terrain than engage in a wild exchange of blows with nature. Unlike the Alutech, the Radon offers a good overview of challenging sections of trail thanks to its high front end. The short bike dances through tight bends like a dream. Be careful: strong steering manoeuvres put the front wheel on a collision course with the tips of your shoes.
Radon Tigard GRX Di2 825: Price, geometry, equipment, measured values, advantages and disadvantages
- Price: 5999 Euro
- Weight of complete wheel: 9.9 kilos
- Frame sizes: S, M, L, XL
Geometry
- STR/STR+: 1,65/1,27
- Stack+/Reach+: 704/555 mm
Equipment
- Fork: Moquai Carbon
- Drive/gear shift: Shimano GRX 825 Di2 (2x12; 48/31, 11-36 t.)
- Brakes: Shimano GRX 820 (180/160 mm)
- Tyres: Continental Terra Speed TR 45 mm (eff.: 44 mm)
- Impellers: Mavic Allroad S Carbon
Measured values
- Weight of complete wheel: 9890 g
- Weight of wheels: 2857 g
- Impeller inertia: 2542 kg x cm²
Radon Tigard GRX Di2 825: pros and cons
Advantages
Titanium frame with beautiful finish and lifetime warranty, comfortable seating position, high-quality equipment
Disadvantages
Only four frame sizes, not very smooth, geometry not ideal for chasing seconds
Jan Timmermann
Editor
