What’s in a number?

If we were to remove the model names from the geometry chart opposite, you’d be hard pushed to distinguish the analogue bikes from the e-bikes. In fact, bar the shorter chainstays, lower BB high and longer reach on the Specialized, the geometry is remarkably similar on all four of the bikes in this test. That’s not to say they ride the same, however, as the suspension response plays a big part in the dynamic geometry and ultimately the handling.

It’s why the Specialized doesn’t have as much of a rearward weight bias as the numbers suggest. And how something as innocuous as a 35mm rise handlebar can dramatically alter the weight distribution of the Bronson without changing the geometry. So don’t read too much into the numbers, even though it is reassuring that most brands are on the same page. 64.3° 70.4° 75.9° 340mm 440mm 816mm 1,256mm 745mm 620mm 473mm