Mondraker adds to its 2023 MTB lineup with new downcountry focused Chrono DC models
The Spanish brand's new models promise a more aggressive riding hardtail with an impressive out the box spec
Mondraker presented its 2023 collection late last year with a statement of intent, declaring it to be the greatest lineup in Mondraker's history. As the Spanish brand looked to continue moving forward with its biggest advancements in technological performance to date. They now add to their already impressive mountain bike range with two new downcountry bikes in the all-new Chrono DC range.
Having won several World Cup events with the F-Podium Carbon DC, the DC initials aren't new to Mondraker. With the arrival of the two Chrono DCs, the DC and DC R, they aim to bring a more aggressive ride to these aluminum hardtails, and have added model specific geometry and components.
Stealth aluminum and DC geometry
Mondraker has designed the Chrono DC to be much more than a conventional hardtail, with a new frame built from the ground up in terms of design and geometry. It’s made from their own Stealth aluminum with a more trail-focused geometry that sees them stand alone from the rest of the current Chrono models. The head angle on the new models is 68.5 degrees, which is 1.5 degrees slacker than the current versions, while the fork travel has been increased to 120mm. These changes have been made to increase rider confidence on descents, and make the bikes more capable and versatile.
Model specific components
An all-new component mix is another key factor with both DC models coming impressively with the ONOFF Pija factory-fitted dropper post and ONOFF finishing kit. Adding the dropper post as standard is aimed at making the most out of an aluminum hardtail by combining the DC-specific geometry with the dropper should gives you added versatility and extra confidence, while the proven Maxxis Ardent 29 x 2.4-inch tires add the combination of rolling resistance, grip and comfort on most terrains.
To add to the overall comfort and provide a less demanding riding position on longer rides, Mondraker has reduced the stem length compared to the other models to (S/M: 50mm, L: 60mm and XL: 70mm). They have also increased the brake rotors to 180mm front and rear.
Mondraker DC R spec
- Frame: Chrono 29 Stealth Alloy
- Fork: Fox 32 29 Float GRIP EVOL Rhythm, 120mm
- Seatpost: ONOFF Pija dropper internal
- Drivetrain: SRAM SX Eagle, 12 speed
- Brakes: SRAM Level 180 F/R
- Wheels: MDK-XP1 29 TLR, tubeless
- Tires: Maxxis Ardent 29 x 2.4-inch
- Price: $2,599 / £2,199
Mondraker Chrono DC spec
- Frame: Chrono 29 Stealth Alloy
- Fork: RockShox Judy Silver TK 29, 120mm
- Drivetrain: SRAM SX Eagle, 12 speed
- Brakes: SRAM Level 180 F/R
- Wheels: MDK-XP1 29 TLR, tubeless
- Tires: Maxxis Ardent 29 x 2.4-inch
- Price: $2,199 / £1,799
The Chrono DC range should be perfect for riders looking for the next-generation aluminum hardtail which is capable enough to take on a wide variety of trails. It comes with an impressive out-the-box spec. For more info on the Chrono DC and the Chrono DC R head to Mondraker.com.
Paul Brett joined BikePerfect as a staff writer in 2022. He has been an avid cyclist for as long as he can remember, initially catching the mountain biking bug in the 1990s, and he raced mountain bikes for over a decade before injury cut short a glittering career. An award-winning photographer, when not riding a bike, he can be found at the side of a cyclocross track or a downhill mountain bike world championship shooting the action. Paul was the founder, editor and writer of Proper Cycling magazine, and he's traveled the world interviewing some of the biggest names in mountain biking and writing about some of the biggest cycling brands.
Current rides: Canyon Inflite, Specialized Diverge, Marin Alpine Trail 2