First Look: 2014 Mondraker Dune - Now in 27.5 - Mountain Bike Feature

Mondraker launched a redesigned version of the 160mm travel Dune today. The bike sports 27.5-inch (650B) wheels, updated geometry, a revised Zero suspension system better suited to smaller chainring drivetrains, the unique Forward Geometry concept, and more robust tubing in the back half.

All photos by Sebas Romero // Mondraker

2014 Mondraker Dune Highlights

Four models: Dune, Dune R, Dune RR, Dune XR
Four sizes available: S (15.5-inch), M (17-inch), L (19-inch), XL (21-inch)
Stealth Evo Construction
New kinematic Zero suspension - 160mm travel
Evolution of Forward Geometry with FG10 and FG30
Specific geometry for 27.5-inch wheel
Removable Direct Mount derailleur hanger
Built-in rear shock mudguards
Tapered 1.5 head tube
160mm Post Mount rear brake anchor
12 x 142 mm rear thru-axle

Stealth - Side Alloy Structure Technology

The new Dune has an oversized frame with a top tube that is split into two to provide two points of attachment to the down tube, leaving a window inside giving a very characteristic look. This tube provides greater rigidity to the front wheel assembly while it has a marked slope towards the seat tube following the line set by the rear stays, providing more free space for greater mobility and optimum handling in the top area.

Stealth offers an innovative design characterized by flat faces and sharp edges. Each tube and part is designed to carry out a specific function with the lowest possible weight. Careful design has gone into its processes, materials and tapering while a range of alloys have been used that deliver strength and rigidity where needed.

Frame development has drawn on the latest market trends such as an integrated Tapered 1.5 head angle, 12 x 142 mm rear thru-axle for the R, RR and XR models, direct 160mm Post Mount rear brake adapter and a new Direct Mount derailleur holder that is fully removable for clean installation of a 1 x 11 drivetrain.

Zero Suspension System

Zero is the name of Mondraker’s proprietary suspension system which was launched six years ago on the platform of the first Dune 2009. The Zero belongs to the category called the virtual pivot suspension system due to its mechanical configuration.

The most significant difference of the Zero system is that the rear shock is floating between two links and is compressed from both ends. The positioning of the rear shock together with the compression that it receives from both sides makes this system unique.

The entire mechanical configuration is optimized to continue offering 160mm of travel in the rear axle combining the gross absorption capacity of the Zero system with the best pedaling efficiency achieved by Mondraker to date. The new Dune 2014 features surprisingly round and neutral pedaling and great effectiveness in any gear ratio. Both extremely rigid links are made in one piece and the Zero system has been completely redesigned. All Dune models have the advantages of air shocks with a reservoir, from RockShox Monarch Plus on the Dune model to the new Fox Float X on the Dune R, RR and XR models, which will further enhance all the virtues of the Zero system.

Forward Geometry Concept

In combination with the 27.5-inch wheels, Forward Geometry evolves in 2014 to provide a more democratic compromise and greater customization options for all users. The basis of the FG concept remains unchanged; the geometry has longer top tubes that are completely balanced with shorter stems.

The Forward Geometry “FG10” concept retains the same dimensions launched in 2013, with the same stem measuring only 10mm exclusively for the Dune XR model given its particular "Xtreme Racing" specifications. The innovation comes with the standardization of the new “FG30” Forward Geometry in the other models: Dune, Dune R and Dune RR 2014 where the top tube, and thus the front-center, grows equally relative to a conventional geometry and is balanced by a stem measuring only 30mm in length that puts the handlebar just ahead and almost touching, the headset. Thus the FG30 involves a new balance of measurements while maintaining the advantages of the Forward Geometry concept and adding greater usability and better compromise for all users.

Forward Geometry delivers a new weight balance between front and rear wheel making it possible to load the front wheel a lot more than with a classic geometry with clearly improved performance.

The Dune 27.5-inch frame with Forward Geometry is available in four sizes: S, M, L and XL.

Geometry Specs

Ride 27.5

Mondraker has sought to develop best geometry for this new wheel size; heights, angles and lengths have been key to achieving an agile, dynamic, and efficient 27.5-inch Dune.

The new Dune has more grip, better control and safety, rolls more easily and has greater inertia in comparison with a 26-inch model while delivering superior acceleration, more precise steering and most of all more fun than any 29er.