We assembled an exclusive BH Lynx SLS under 8.5 kg ready to compete

The BH Lynx SLS is not a bike born in a laboratory designed to break records on the scale without context. It is a model developed directly in the World Cup, in collaboration with David Valero and the BH Coloma Team, with the specific goal of offering the maximum possible performance on current XCO circuits without sacrificing lightness, control, or reliability. Starting from that base, our setup takes the concept of the Lynx SLS one step further, aiming for a final weight below 8.5 kg through a coherent selection of components, available on the market and fully functional in real competition.

BH Lynx SLS sub 8.5 kg: real lightness with World Cup DNA

Not all lightweight bikes start from the same premise. Some are born with the scale as an absolute priority, and then their real use is attempted to be fitted in. With our BH Lynx SLS Sub 8.5 Kg, we follow the opposite path. It is a bike conceived directly to compete at the highest level and, from there, optimized to achieve one of the lowest weight figures that can be found today in a fully functional XCO dual suspension bike.

This setup takes that concept to the extreme, but without betraying the original philosophy of the model to achieve real performance, reliability in races, and solid behavior on modern XCO circuits, which are increasingly demanding on materials.

A frame developed in the World Cup

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The basis of this project is the BH Lynx SLS frame, a model developed in competition alongside the BH Coloma Team and with the direct involvement of David Valero. It is not a bike "lightened" afterwards, but a chassis conceived from the start to perform in the World Cup, where every gram counts, but also every impact, every support, and every effort.

The frame uses SLS ECL carbon and employs a rear suspension system with a concentric Split Pivot to the axle, assisted by a compact linkage. With 80 mm of rear travel, the Lynx SLS clearly sits in the short travel dual suspension segment, but without resorting to simplified solutions. All pivot points use bearings, and the design prioritizes structural rigidity in key areas such as the main pivot or brake mount.

The integration of the shock in the top tube allows for a conventional front triangle, space for two water bottles, and very contained dimensions, favoring both ergonomics and control in technical sections. The weight of the frame is 1,520 g, a particularly low figure for a dual suspension bike with full articulation.

Suspensions designed for current XCO

At the front, the FOX 34 SL Factory has been chosen, a fork that has become one of the most common models on the World Cup starting grid since its appearance. Its complete 34 mm chassis leaves behind the Step-Cast concept and provides a clear increase in torsional stiffness, something especially appreciated on circuits with strong supports and fast technical sections.

This setup uses the 110 mm version, which perfectly matches the 80 mm rear of the Lynx SLS, maintaining a balanced geometry and very precise behavior in aggressive riding. Its weight is 1,496 g, a figure that largely explains why it has become a standard in high-level XCO.

The rear work is handled by the FOX Float SL Factory PTL 2P, a lightweight and efficient shock that provides sensitivity and control without penalizing the overall weight, with only 234 g on the scale.

Wheels under a kilo: Control World Cup

One of the key points of this setup is the Control World Cup wheels, presented as the fastest XCO wheelset on the planet, with an undeniable fact: 998 g for the complete set.

Developed in competition, these wheels aim to minimize rotational mass without compromising strength. Optimized carbon rims, replaceable carbon spokes, and high-level hubs allow for immediate response to pedaling and great precision when the circuit becomes technical. On a bike of this level, the weight savings in the wheels are not only noticeable on the scale but also in every acceleration and every change of pace.

The wheels are fitted with Damoff valves weighing 4g each.

For the tires, we have chosen the lightest version from Pirelli's competition catalog, the Scorpion XC RC with Pro Wall casing weighing only 650g.

Tuned transmission for competition

The transmission is based on the SRAM XX SL T-Type, one of the most used groups in XCO for its precision under load and reliability in extreme conditions. In this setup, its operation has been optimized with the Kogel Kolossos cage (98g), which reduces friction, increases the rigidity of the set, and improves the durability of the system in the long term.

The set is completed with a 10-52T cassette, chain, and XX SL cranks, configuring a transmission designed to perform reliably in both explosive climbs and prolonged efforts.

In the bottom bracket, the Kogel Bearings BB92-DUB (56g) has been installed, with sealed ceramic bearings. It is one of the most critical points of any XC bike in terms of exposure to water and mud, and its choice responds to the search for smooth operation and reliability in any condition.

Brakes and control without penalizing weight

The braking is handled by the Shimano XTR 9200, a reference in XCO for its feel, adjustable power, and consistency in intensive use. They are combined with Galfer Center Lock 160 mm discs and AMP carbon pads (9g), achieving a balanced set that does not compromise the final weight and maintains a high level of safety on demanding descents.

Darimo components and other details: precision lightness

The cockpit and seat post are made by Darimo, the Spanish brand specialized in ultralight components handcrafted.

The integrated Epsilon handlebar-stem set stands out not only for its weight of 156 g, but also for its specific lamination process, adapted to each size, and for exceeding the ISO 4210-2 standard, being approved for cyclists up to 90 kg.

The Darimo T1 Loop seat post, weighing 94 g, uses an asymmetric laminate and a seat anchoring system with Dyneema® rings, reducing weight without compromising compatibility or safety. The Sub4 clamp, weighing just 3 g, completes a set where every detail responds to a functional, not aesthetic, objective.

The saevid Alien saddle weighing 67g is entirely handmade from carbon fiber, without paint or lacquer coating. Its manufacturing system using an open mold under vacuum and autoclave curing improves strength, finish, and weight.

The ALPITUDE Superleggero bottle cage weighs less than 10g without screws.

Complete setup of a BH Lynx SLS taken to its maximum expression

The result of this setup is a BH Lynx SLS that weighs under 8.5 kg while maintaining its competitive focus. It is not a style exercise nor a bike designed only for the scale: it is an XCO dual suspension bike ready to line up on a starting grid and withstand the race pace demanded by modern mountain biking.

• Frame: BH Lynx SLS ECL Carbon 29” 80 mm PF92 Boost (1,520 g)
• Shock: FOX Float SL Factory PTL 2P 190x40 (234 g)
• Fork: FOX 34 SL Factory PTL 2P 110 mm (1,496 g)
• Wheels: Control World Cup (998 g the set)
• Valves: Damoff (4 g each)
• Derailleur: SRAM XX SL T-Type (346 g) + Kogel Kolossos cage (98 g)
• Shifter: SRAM POD Ultimate (47 g)
• Cassette: SRAM XX SL T-Type 10-52 (348 g)
• Chain: SRAM XX SL T-Type (240 g)
• Bottom bracket: Kogel Bearings BB92-DUB (56 g)
• Cranks: SRAM XX SL with 34T chainring (471 g)
• Brakes: Shimano XTR 9200 (385 g the set)
• Discs: Galfer Center Lock 160 mm (94 g each)
• Handlebar-stem: Darimo Carbon Integrated Epsilon (156 g)
• Seat post: Darimo T1 Loop (94 g)
• Seat post clamp: Darimo Sub4 (3 g)
• Saddle: Saevid Carbon (67 g)
• Tires: Pirelli Scorpion XC RC Pro Wall (651 g each)
• Grips: 3D Prototype (43 g)
• Bottle cage: ALPITUDE Superleggero (10g)

Total weight: under 8.5 kg