Mondraker has consistently pushed the boundaries of mountain bike design, and the Foxy RR 29 stands as a prime example of their innovative approach. Renowned for pioneering “Forward Geometry,” a philosophy centered around longer and lower bike designs, Mondraker has carved a unique niche in the mountain biking world. We put the Foxy RR 29 through its paces during an extended summer review, culminating in the demanding Trans-Cascadia race in Washington, to see if the ride matched the reputation.
From the outset, the Foxy 29 RR is a visual masterpiece, seamlessly blending engineering prowess with striking aesthetics. The uninterrupted flow from the top tube to the chainstay is a design highlight, showcasing the bike’s dynamic lines. The meticulously crafted carbon tube profiles, the ultra-modern geometry, and the carefully selected color palette all contribute to a bike that looks fast even when standing still. The Mondraker Foxy 29 RR evokes the same desire and admiration as a Lamborghini Aventador in the automotive world. My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive, but the crucial question remained: would its performance on the trail live up to its captivating appearance? It was time to delve deeper and explore beyond the surface appeal.
Delving into the Design: Forward Geometry and Rider Positioning
Mondraker’s signature Forward Geometry is engineered to reposition the rider into a more balanced and assertive stance over the front of the bike. This design ethos is characterized by exceptionally long front ends paired with slack head tube angles and forks with reduced offset. Throughout our testing period, the Foxy RR 29 became a conversation starter. Every rider who encountered it was compelled to stop and examine its elongated silhouette. Many were surprised to learn our test bike was a size large, often mistaking it for an XL due to its perceived length and stretched-out appearance.
Our size large Foxy 29 boasts impressive geometry figures: a substantial 654mm top tube, a generous 490mm reach, a slack 66-degree head tube angle, a lengthy 48.66-inch wheelbase, and a 44mm fork offset. These numbers clearly underscore the bike’s design intent: to deliver high-speed stability and confidence-inspiring handling. This geometry approach is decisive; riders will likely either find it perfectly suited to their riding style or not. While numerous brands are now incorporating longer front ends into their designs, we believe Mondraker’s Forward Geometry offers a distinctive riding experience that may not be universally ideal for all riders or terrains. Think of the distinction between the specialized handling of sports cars versus the all-around capability of SUVs—both are effective but cater to different needs.
The Foxy RR 29’s suspension system is a refined iteration of Mondraker’s Zero Suspension system. This virtual pivot design strategically mounts the shock between the upper and lower sections of the rear triangle via linkage arms. Notably, the upper link incorporates a carbon bridge, which Mondraker asserts enhances damping performance. Virtual pivot point suspension systems inherently present a mix of advantages and disadvantages. Many riders appreciate their pedaling efficiency and the firm feel of the rear end. However, some, like our tester Drew, often point out potential drawbacks such as a tendency to get hung up on square-edged impacts like rocks and roots, and a generally harsher feel in such conditions. Ultimately, suspension preference is subjective and heavily influenced by individual riding styles, terrain, and regional riding conditions, meaning the perfect bike for one rider may differ significantly for another in a different environment.
Mondraker has equipped the Foxy RR 29 with a component package designed for performance and reliability. SRAM Code R brakes provide ample stopping power, while a Fox 36 Fit4 EVOL fork and Fox DPX2 shock manage suspension duties. The DT Swiss E1700 Spline wheelset, built on robust DT 350 hubs, is a dependable choice for demanding trails, and SRAM’s Eagle 1×12 drivetrain ensures a wide gear range for varied terrain.
Mondraker Foxy RR 29 mountain bike in action, showcasing its Forward Geometry design and sleek carbon frame.
When the trails turned uphill, the Foxy RR 29’s downhill-oriented geometry presented a noticeable challenge. While the 75.5-degree seat tube angle is reasonably steep, I consistently felt positioned behind the pedals rather than directly over them. Those same geometry characteristics that contribute to the bike’s stability and confidence on steep descents translated into a wandering front end and a less efficient climbing experience when pointed uphill.
Despite these climbing quirks, the Foxy RR 29 reveals thoughtful design elements that enhance the overall riding experience. An integrated and removable rear fender is cleverly integrated to protect the rear shock from mud and debris. Overmolded downtube and chainstay protectors are seamlessly incorporated and effectively shield vulnerable areas. Large Enduro bearings in the main pivots contribute to a stiff and smooth suspension action. The rear brake features a distinctive post mount design located on the inner side of the chainstay, reminiscent of custom motorcycle engineering. And, of course, the bike’s striking silhouette and clean lines continue to impress, even after countless rides.
