Purchased this bike in the fall of 2020 so I didn't have much of a chance to test it out. As of June, I've got about 500kms on the bike (all single track) and all I can say is my mind is blown with how capable this machine is!
I upgraded from a Kona Hei Hei and before deciding on the Alpen I spent about 2 months researching frame geometries, specs etc against all the major brands out there. My goal was an improved downhill experience while sacrificing the least amount of climbing capability as possible when comparing to my Hei Hei. Of course I was also looking for a good component spec at a reasonable price but price was not going to be my deciding factor. Frame geometry was number one, followed by the component spec (but I also benefited purchasing from Evolve as the next closest unit I could find that was comparable was $1500 more).
My expectations for this bike on the downhill were fairly high compared to the old Kona and the Alpen did not disappoint, but here's where my mind was blown....climbing! I fully expected the Alpen to slightly lag behind the Hei Hei when it comes to single track trail climbing and I was willing to accept it for the better overall experience but the Alpen absolutely blows away the Hei Hei for trail climbing. There's trails that I have dozens of passes on the Hei Hei and sections that I accepted as "hike a bike" as I could never get the line just right or would spin out. These trails are a brand new experience with the Alpen as they are now easily cleared and "easily" is no exaggeration because I am no better rider than I was last year at this time! (I'm old and performance is likely on the decline at this point). I can't express enough how shocking and fun the difference is with the Alpen!
And the last thing I'll say is support from Matt has been absolutely fantastic. Any time I've reached out he's responded very quickly. I had a suspension nut back out on the rear shock and lost it on the trail. Matt couriered a new nut to me free of charge and my downtime was minimal!
