For 2017 this spec of the 10.0, pictured here, has changed and the price risen. The frame remains the same as the gem that was at the heart of the 2016 model and is a constant on all five Swoop models. All are worth considering and Radon offer a mix of Fox or RockShox when it come to suspension units.
The Swoop range kicks off with the 7.0 model, and at €2399 Radon have spent the money in the right places. RockShox 170mm Yari RC, Monarch Plus RC3, DT E1900 wheels, XT/SLX/RaceFace drivetrain are all proven and a great platform to build on. The finishing kit is quality stuff – with maybe a longer travel dropper post, a wider bar and a switch of tyres being possible considerations. The range topping 10.0, (in either standard or HD spec) starts at €3999 with SRAM XO1 Eagle, Factory spec Fox 36 forks and X2 damper with wheels from the increasingly popular e*thirteen. Go for the HD if you’re looking for carbon rims.
How does it ride? We were blown away on our first ride and this sensation stayed with us. The Swoop is so low, so slack, so balanced, and just a hooligan through and through. There simply can be no measured remarks about this bike when the delivery is simply so flat out in its nature. This is a long travel bike that has a light ride character, is reasonably quiet and has excellent balance between flex and stiffness. We’ve yet to find any real-world compromises.
The fact that it pushes the seemingly unsurpassable aluminium YT Capra close is testimony to how far Radon have come. The Swoop is without question a firm recommendation in this category of bike, an understated offering for those willing to step away from the more familiar brands seen on the trails here in the UK. Trust us on this one.
