Words and Photos: Steve Jones
Shape and Purpose
The Lapierre Overvolt SX800 takes much of its shape and form from its Spicy stablemate, a 165mm enduro weapon. It’s interesting to see that ten times World Downhill Champion Nico Vouilloz is now heavily involved with the Lapierre e-mtb programme being well acquainted with speed and motors.
The Overvolt has some serious potential in its 170mm chassis and as we have found there comes a point when downhill style geometry conflicts with climbing ability. At this amount of travel the bike gets close to downhill numbers but the angles and numbers involved here makes it a super all-action enduro bike. Overall it’s a bit of a lump compared to the 49lb Trek with 10mm less travel.