Van Nicholas is a Dutch company that works exclusively in titanium, and the Zion 29er is available in several guises. We went for the Rohloff-geared, belt-driven, carbon-forked rigid version as the ultimate representation of simple, low-maintenance riding.
- Highs: Super-light frame looks absolutely gorgeous
- Lows: Manufacturing tolerances caused issues
- Buy if: ‘They don’t make ‘em like they used to’ sounds bad to you
It certainly looks the part. The hand-brushed, aircraft-grade titanium frame is guaranteed for life, and the lack of need for paint – it won’t corrode – is another reason this bike is so light. Even with the heavy, 14-ratio Rohloff Speedhub in the back, it weighs just 11.24kg (24.8lb).
You can spec a suspension fork, but Van Nicholas’ own VNT carbon rigid fork is a good choice. It combines with the natural twang of the front triangle to create a comfy ride that’s impressively damped against small vibrations.
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The carbon drive belt, made by Gates, is lighter, stronger and quieter than a chain
Unfortunately, either the steerer on ours was marginally too thick, or the spacers under the stem were a tad too small. They were wedged so tight we couldn’t actually get them off.
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