BOLD UNPLUGGED 2023, complete renovation for an unconventional Enduro

Mountain bike 31/01/23 16:00 Migue A.

The Swiss brand BOLD is synonymous with innovation and its new Enduro mountain bike might be the best example. The new BOLD UNPLUGGED 2023 completely revamps the brand's Super Enduro model with a new rear suspension system that keeps the shock hidden and enhances BOLD's unique aesthetics.

Key features of the BOLD UNPLUGGED 2023

New HMX carbon frame
170mm front and 160mm rear travel
IST VP, Virtual Pivot Rear Suspension with integrated shock
Adjustable bottom bracket height via flip-chip
Adjustable geometry
Extremely low center of gravity
Compatible only with electronic gearbox
Mullet versions in size M and S
New internal cable routing from the handlebars
Price from 8.999 €.
Weight 15.4 kg (for UNPLUGGED PRO model with tool kit and tubeless wheels)

BOLD UNPLUGGED ULTIMATE 2023

The BOLD Unplugged 2023 continues to redefine Enduro bikes

Integration is one of BOLD's defining characteristics, but their unique and unconventional designs are not just about aesthetics, they are about pushing the boundaries of technology in order to elevate the mountain bike experience.

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The new BOLD Unplugged 2023 follows the same path and presents an Enduro bike that doesn't follow classic full suspension Enduro designs. The integrated shock, a virtual pivot system attached to an innovative linkage and a progressive, variable geometry system offer improved handling and overall experience.

The integrated shock at the bottom of the rear triangle remains a key feature and is what has allowed us to articulate the entire design of the new BOLD to achieve a stiffer and more reactive bike when accelerating, while at the same time more capable and safer in aggressive and complicated terrain. Placing the centre of gravity as low as possible gives unique qualities to this BOLD UNPLUGGED.

IST VP: Integrated rear suspension with virtual pivot

Although this is an almost new bike, the most important change compared to previous versions is undoubtedly the rear suspension system comprising a virtual pivot swingarm linked to the internal shock by ultra-compact connecting rods.

Access to the shock

As we have been pointing out, the internal location of the rear shock translates into greater frame stiffness, a lower centre of gravity, better rear suspension performance and less maintenance.

In contrast to the previous model, the new BOLD UNPLUGGED 2023 has a virtual pivot suspension system.

In addition to protecting the shock from impacts, mud, etc., this location has allowed the design of an ultra-compact linkage system to improve stiffness while lowering the weight of the set-up. The linkage is attached directly to the shock and mounted on an axle inside the frame, so the pivot points no longer have to be located around the frame. This makes the linkage shorter than any other suspension system.

Using a virtual pivot system, instead of the Horst Link of the previous version, improves both suspension sensitivity and makes pedalling and braking more efficient. The kinematic suspension curve gives supple small bump sensitivity and therefore exceptional traction characteristics, perfect support in the mid-stroke and a controlled deep stroke for perfect bottom out control.

Travel indicator

The shock is accessed via a protective cover on the down tube area, from where you can adjust rebound, compression, shock pressure or access the remote TracLoc system. Adjusting the SAG is easy thanks to the magnetic travel indicator on the outside. The travel indicator also allows you to optimise the maximum travel for 100% utilisation. Shock bolts are accessible from the outside.

The UNPLUGGED can be fitted with a FOX FLOAT X NUDE, giving 160mm of travel in combination with the TracLoc remote system.

TRACLOC system

The TracLoc system has been seen before on the BOLD Linkin. Unlike most remote systems that modify compression at low speed to improve pedalling efficiency, the TracLoc allows you to vary the compression and modify the progressivity curve, altering the geometry of the bike.

In Traction mode the shock is firmer and dynamically has less travel. The bike therefore stands higher, maintaining a tighter saddle angle and making it more agile. In addition, the UNPLUGGED has a third mode with full lockout to climb steeper trails as efficiently as possible.

VARIOTEC and geometry

In addition to the progressive geometry offered by the Tracloc system, the BOLD UNPLUGGED 2023 offers the possibility to adjust the bottom bracket height and headset angle.

Flip Chip Bold VarioTec

With the Bold VarioTec Flip-Chip, the bottom bracket height can be varied by 5mm and the headset angle can be adjusted by 1° by turning the headset cups 180°.

Evolution of the BOLD UNPLUGGED compared to its previous version

HMX frame: lighter, stiffer and more spacious

The integrated shock system, the unique option of electronic gearing and the new internal cable routing from the headset have allowed the development of a new HMX carbon frame that improves stiffness and weight over the previous version while offering more space in the front triangle for a water bottle and internal storage.

The front triangle no longer has cable openings and the frame is only compatible with wireless gears.

SAVE THE DAY KIT: a lifesaver

The integrated system and the opening of the down tube also offer an internal storage space in which BOLD has placed a very complete repair kit.

Linkages, shock and the Save the day tool kit - that's what the integrated suspension system contains.

The kit includes a mini pump, tyre levers and a spare tube to save your day, in case of a flat tyre. To get you back on the trails fast, the Syncros MATCHBOX SL-CT Multi-Tool is hidden inside the frame covering most emergencies.

The shock protection cover also gives access to the tool and spare parts kit.

A T25, T30 and allen 6 multi-tool is included in the rear axle. The bike could be adjusted almost completely with this tool alone.

Maximum compatibility with dropper posts

Another benefit of placing the shock as low as possible is that the frame of the new UNPLUGGED is very compatible with dropper posts and allows almost any position. For example, in sizes M, L and XL it is no problem to mount a seatpost with 200 mm of travel and use it in the lowest possible saddle position.

The BOLD UNPLUGGED is suitable for extra long seatposts.

New SYNCROS COCKPIT with internal cable routing from the headset

The new Syncros integrated stem handlebar system has further streamlined the lines of the new Unplugged while reducing frame weight and improving stiffness.

The new integrated handlebars optimise the riding position while guiding all cables into the frame from the headset.

BOLD UNPLUGGED 2023: prices, models and availability

The new UNPLUGGED comes in 2 different versions and 2 framesets: UNPLUGGED ULTIMATE (10.999 €), UNPLUGGED PRO (8.999 €), UNPLUGGED frameset in BLACK or GREY (5.999 €).

The UNPLUGGED will be available by the beginning of 2023 through its website. Pricing might vary according to currency.

BOLD UNPLUGGED ULTIMATE 2023 - 10.999€

Frame: Carbon HMX / Internal Suspension Technology / IST VP / Vario Tech / Mullet Ready / Wireless Shifting ONLY / Head angle adjustable / Syncros Cable Integration System / BB92 / UDH Interface / 12x148mm with 55mm Chainline
Fork: M.2 Air / TTX-Technology HSC - LSC - LSR adjustable / 15x110mm Axle / 44mm offset / tapered steerer / 170mm travel
Rear Shock: FOX FLOAT X NUDE PE EVOL Piggy Back Trunnion / SCOTT custom w. travel / geo adj. / 3 modes: Climb-Traction Control-Descend / Custom large Air volume / Comp & Reb. Adj. /Travel 160-100-Climb / T185X55mm
Remote System: TracLoc Technology / Rear Suspension & Dropper Remote / 3 Rear Suspension modes
Rear Derailleur: SRAM X01 Eagle AXS / 12 Speed / Wireless Electronic Shift System
Shifter: SRAM GX Eagle AXS Rocker Controller
Crankset: SRAM X01 DUB Eagle Carbon crankarm / 55mm CL / 32T
Brakes: Shimano XTR M9120 4 Piston Disc
Handlebar: Syncros Hixon iC Carbon / Size S & M 15mm rise / Size L & XL 25mm rise / back sweep 8° / 780mm / Syncros Endurance lock-on grips
Seatpost: Syncros Duncan Dropper Post 1.5 34.9mm / Size S 150mm / Size M, L & XL 200mm
Seat: Syncros Tofino Regular 1 / Carbon rails
Headset: Syncros - Acros Angle adjust & Cable Routing HS System / Stainless / +-0.6° head angle adjustment / ZS56/28.6 – ZS56/40 MTB
Wheelset: Syncros Revelstoke 1.5 6 Bolt / F: 15x110mm, R: 12x148mm / 30mm Tubeless ready rim 28H / XD Driver / Syncros Axle w/Removable Lever with Tool / Size S & M F29 - R27.5 Mullet / Size L & XL F&R 29

BOLD UNPLUGGED PRO2023 - 8.999€

Frame: Carbon HMX / Internal Suspension Technology / IST VP / Vario Tech / Mullet Ready / Wireless Shifting ONLY / Head angle adjustable / Syncros Cable Integration System / BB92 / UDH Interface / 12x148mm with 55mm Chainline
Fork: FOX 38 Float Performance Air Grip / Kabolt 15x110mm axle / tapered steerer / 44mm offset / Reb. Adj. / Lockout / 170mm travel
Rear Shock: FOX FLOAT X NUDE PE EVOL Piggy Back Trunnion / SCOTT custom w. travel / geo adj. / 3 modes: Climb-Traction Control-Descend / Custom large Air volume / Comp & Reb. Adj. / Travel 160-100-Climb / T185X55mm
Remote System: TracLoc Technology / Rear Suspension & Dropper Remote / 3 Rear Suspension modes
Rear Derailleur: SRAM GX Eagle AXS / 12 Speed / Wireless Electronic Shift System
Shifter: SRAM GX Eagle AXS Rocker Controller
Crankset: SRAM GX Eagle DUB / 55mm CL / 32T
Brakes: Shimano SLX M7120 4 Piston Disc
Handlebar: Syncros Hixon iC Carbon / Size S & M 15mm rise / Size L & XL 25mm rise / back sweep 8° / 780mm / Syncros Endurance lock-on grips
Seatpost: Syncros Duncan Dropper Post 1.5 34.9mm / Size S 150mm / Size M, L & XL 200mm
Seat: Syncros Tofino Regular 1 / titanium rails
Headset: Syncros - Acros Angle adjust & Cable Routing HS System / Stainless / +-0.6° head angle adjustment / ZS56/28.6 – ZS56/40 MTB
Wheelset: Syncros Revelstoke 2 6 Bolt / F: 15x110mm, R: 12x148mm / 30mm Tubeless ready rim 28H / XD Driver / Syncros Axle w/Removable Lever with Tool / Size S & M F29 - R27.5 Mullet / Size L & XL F&R 29

FRAMESET UNPLUGGED 2023

Frame: Carbon HMX / Internal Suspension Technology / IST VP / Vario Tech / Mullet Ready / Wireless Shifting ONLY / Head angle adjustable / Syncros Cable Integration System / BB92 / UDH Interface / 12x148mm with 55mm Chainline
Rear Shock: FOX FLOAT X NUDE Factory EVOL Piggy Back Trunnion / Kashima / SCOTT custom w. travel / geo adj. / 3 modes: Climb-Traction Control-Descend / Custom large Air volume / Comp & Reb. Adj. / Travel 160-100-Climb / T185X55mm
Components: Syncros Hixon iC Carbon / Size S & M 15mm rise / Size L & XL 25mm rise / back sweep 8° / 780mm / Syncros Pro lock-on grips
Syncros Duncan Dropper Post 1.5 34.9mm / Size S 150mm / SizeM, L & XL 200mm
Accessories: Tracloc Remote Control Shifter Kit / Syncros - Acros Pro Headset System#Save the Day Kit 7 Syncros rear axle

Further information can be found on the official Bold website.