The world of enduro racing is about to welcome back a familiar face, as Raphaela Richter, the nine-time German National Enduro Champion, prepares to take on the 2026 World Cup season with renewed vigor. After a successful surgery to address her shoulder issue, Raphaela is ready to hit the trails again, and her bike is a key part of her comeback story. This article delves into the specifications and significance of Raphaela's race bike, offering a unique perspective on her journey back to the top.
A Bike Built for Speed and Control
Raphaela's race bike is a 2nd generation Crossworx DASH MLT with mixed wheels, a 440 mm reach, and a 32 mm stem. The bike's design is a testament to the brand's commitment to performance and innovation. The DASH is a linkage-driven single pivot delivering 160 mm of rear wheel travel, which is crucial for navigating the challenging enduro trails. With a 170 mm travel Intend Carbonite fork and a 64-degree head angle, the bike offers a perfect blend of agility and stability.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Raphaela's bike is the use of locally produced components. The frame, for instance, is welded by her boyfriend, who works for Crossworx, and Raphaela herself has a part-time role at the company. This not only showcases the brand's commitment to quality but also highlights the importance of local craftsmanship in the cycling industry.
A Drivetrain Designed for Efficiency
The drivetrain of Raphaela's bike is a marvel of engineering. The 155 mm carbon crankset and 30T chainring from Hope, paired with a Garbaruk 11s cassette, provide a smooth and efficient power transfer. While Raphaela is training on this setup, she plans to upgrade to 12s with a SRAM XX1 derailleur for the races, demonstrating her commitment to optimizing performance.
A Fork and Shock for Control and Comfort
The Intend Carbonite fork, weighing only 2 kg, is a standout feature of Raphaela's bike. It is significantly lighter than the Fox Podium fork, thanks to the use of 7000-series aluminum for the upper tubes. Paired with an Intend Hover Monocoque shock in 230 mm x 65 mm, with a custom Cerakote finish, the bike offers a smooth and controlled ride.
Tires and Brakes for Grip and Safety
Raphaela's choice of tires, Schwalbe Radial, is a strategic decision. The Magic Mary Gravity Ultrasoft out front and Tacky Chan Gravity Ultrasoft in the rear provide excellent grip and traction, allowing her to navigate the trails with confidence. The Hope GR4 EVO brakes, run at a specific angle of 35 degrees, paired with 203 mm floating rotors, ensure safe and controlled braking.
A Cockpit for Comfort and Control
The cockpit of Raphaela's bike is designed with comfort and control in mind. The 30 mm Ergon GDH grips provide a secure and comfortable grip, while the Hope Union TC Pedals offer a stable platform for pedaling. The 160 mm Bikeyoke Revive 3.0 dropper and the Ergon SM Women saddle complete the setup, ensuring a comfortable and efficient riding position.
A Bike Built for Success
In my opinion, Raphaela's bike is a testament to her determination and commitment to enduro racing. The combination of locally produced components, innovative design, and high-performance parts showcases her dedication to the sport. As she prepares for the 2026 World Cup season, her bike will be a key factor in her success, and I am excited to see her take on the trails again.
One thing that immediately stands out is the bike's ability to balance performance and comfort. The use of lightweight materials, such as the Intend Carbonite fork, and the strategic choice of tires and brakes, demonstrate a deep understanding of the demands of enduro racing. From my perspective, this bike is a true reflection of Raphaela's character and her commitment to excellence.
What many people don't realize is the level of craftsmanship that goes into building a bike like this. The fact that her boyfriend welds the frame and Raphaela herself has a part-time role at Crossworx highlights the importance of local craftsmanship in the cycling industry. It's a reminder that behind every great bike is a story of passion and dedication.
If you take a step back and think about it, Raphaela's bike is not just a machine; it's a symbol of her journey back to the top. It's a testament to her resilience and determination, and it's a reminder that with the right equipment, anything is possible. As she prepares for the 2026 World Cup season, her bike will be a key factor in her success, and I am excited to see her take on the trails again.
