R
ROSE BikesCount Solo
mtb649–1499 EUR
01
Origin
pre-2015. The Count Solo is one of ROSE's oldest continuously-produced bike lines. bike-test.com describes it as having 'already addicted thousands of people to cycling' — suggesting a long heritage as a gateway MTB. It serves the classic XC hardtail function: efficient, fun, fast, at accessible direct-sales pricing.
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The verdict
+Strengths
- bike-test.com: 'Benchmark under €800 — first-class price/performance ratio'
- off.road.cc: 'Very fast for money. Stiff alloy transfers power very efficiently — positively spurts forward.'
- 11.84kg at Count Solo 3 price — competitive weight for spec level
- 6-year frame warranty standard on all models
- Mixed wheel sizing (27.5/29) by frame size — proportional geometry approach
- Direct sales: Shimano XT on Count Solo 4 at sub-€1,300 — retail equivalent significantly more
- Mavic and DT Swiss wheels at this price tier via direct sales
- Good climbing: 'Steep seat angle efficient position, great climber'
−Weaknesses
- off.road.cc: 'Not progressive geometry. Long stem + steep HTA = pure XC race setup. Not friendly for mixed trail rides.'
- off.road.cc: 'Only on really steep and techy descents does it get a bit interesting' — limits technical descent use
- Entry Count Solo 1: Shimano Altus MT200 2-piston brakes — basic for trail use
- Entry model 13.9kg — heavier than ideal for XC race use
- Traditional XC geometry not suited to riders wanting modern trail capability (see Bonero or Ground Control instead)
- Cockpit (long stem, narrow bar) needs upgrade for non-racing trail use per off.road.cc
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Who it’s for
XC racing beginners and amateur racersFitness cyclists wanting efficient MTBMarathon MTB event ridersRiders transitioning from road cycling to MTBRecreational trail riders on moderate terrain
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