Created by passionate bikers and engineered for those wanting a high-end experience of technology and design, the BOLD UNPLUGGED is the latest release from Switzerland based BOLD CYCLES.
Years of experience in development, frame building and manufacturing has inspired BOLD to question and redefine the rules of existing technology concepts. Integration has always been a key feature on their bikes and the search for non-conventional ideas to push the boundaries of technology in order to create bikes that are designed to elevate the rider’s experience.
Progressive geometry in combination with the innovative Internal Suspension Technology brings the perfect mix of balance and control to the BOLD UNPLUGGED. The shock is mounted in the lowest possible position inside the front triangle thanks to this design. This central and low mounting point for the shock, rocker link and pivot, but also the bottle cage lead to a very low center of mass, giving superb handling capabilities.
“The new UNPLUGGED undoubtedly is GEARED FOR SPEED, and simply one hell of a bike. The level of integration is amazing and raises the bar. I guess it’s fair to say, we’ll redefine the rules with this new platform,” stated BOLD Ambassador Rob Hearn.
In addition to the IST VP suspension technology designed for progressive enduro riding, the bike features several other innovative solutions. The “Save The Day Kit” in the downtube, an optimized SAG and Bottom-Out Indicator and geometry adjustment options at the front and rear are just a few. The playful yet smooth handling coupled with a chassis with lots of pop and plenty of support in the mid-travel range provide incredible performance and round out the package for the ambitious rider.
Frame stiffness, lowest center of gravity and optimum shock performance are the key benefits to our Internal Suspension Technology. The condition of the rear shock has a significant impact on suspension performance. The shock is always protected from dirt, water and crashes to ensure it is functioning at its best. As a result, the bike benefits from better handling, longer shock service intervals and a more stable, confidence inspiring ride.
With the shock placed internally, BOLDS was able to design an ultra compact linkage system for low weight and high stiffness. The linkage is directly attached to the shock and mounted to an axle inside the frame, meaning the suspension pivots no longer have to be constructed around the frame. This makes the link shorter than any other traditional suspension platform.
Using a Virtual Pivot linkage design improves the suspension feel, pedaling and braking response to work with maximum efficiency. The kinematic suspension curve of the BOLD UNPLUGGED gives supple small bump sensitivity and therefore exceptional traction characteristics, perfect support in the mid-stroke and a controlled deep stroke for perfect bottom out control.
Save The Day Kit
The integration concept features a clever storage solution for tools inside the frame which is easily accessible by opening the downtube cover. The kit includes a mini pump, tire levers and a spare tube spot in case of a flat tire. To get you back on the trail fast, the Syncros Multi-Tool is hidden inside the frame covering most adjustments.
“Integration has always been a core feature of our bikes. Upon analyzing forces going into the frame, with the UNPLUGGED we decided to place the shock horizontally near the downtube junction. This ensures an extremely low center of gravity and offers plenty of clearance for long-travel seatposts,” said Vincenz Droux, Head of Engineering & Design, Founder BOLD Cycles.
“For the most passionate riders seeking the most progressively engineered bikes, the all new UNPLUGGED provides the industry’s most sophisticated, state of the art technology and design features,” added Rene Krattinger, BOLD Cycles Product Manager.
2023 Product Range
The new UNPLUGGED comes in 2 different versions and 2 framesets: UNPLUGGED ULTIMATE (10.999 €), UNPLUGGED PRO (8.999 €), UNPLUGGED frameset in GREY or BLACK (5.999 €).
Ron is the chief cook and bottlewasher at Bike World News, doing everything from website design to bike reviews.
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