The Crossworx Dash Enduro World Cup Race Bike: A Deep Dive
Raphaela Richter, a nine-time German National Enduro Champion, is gearing up for her eighth season of racing in the Enduro World Cups. With a successful shoulder surgery behind her, she's ready to take on the 2026 season with renewed confidence and a privateer setup. Her bike of choice is the Crossworx Dash MLT, a linkage-driven single pivot design with 160mm of rear wheel travel. This bike is a testament to her partnership with Crossworx Cycles, a German brand based in Thuringia, where they produce all their aluminum frames.
The Dash MLT is tailored to Raphaela's 164 cm (5ft 5") frame, featuring a 440 mm reach and 32 mm stem. The handlebar, crafted by Bike Ahead Composites, comes in two layups: a 105 kg layup certified for ASTM 3, or a 130 kg layup for e-Bikes, certified for ASTM 5 riding. Raphaela opts for the latter, with a 30 mm rise, 8.5 degree backsweep, and 5 degree up, cut to 720 mm. This setup ensures a comfortable and controlled riding position.
The drivetrain is a mix of locally produced components and European-made parts. SRAM's GX 11s mechanical derailleur powers the bike, with a 155 mm carbon crankset and 30T chainring from Hope, and a Garbaruk 11s cassette. Raphaela trains on this setup but plans to upgrade to 12s with a SRAM XX1 derailleur for the races.
The Intend Carbonite fork, weighing in at 2 kg, is a standout feature, offering a significant weight reduction compared to the Fox Podium. It's paired with an Intend Hover Monocoque shock, featuring a custom Cerakote finish for heat dissipation. The carbon wheelset, from True BC, is laced to DT Swiss 350 hubs, with a 29" wheel boasting a HD layup rim and 28 spokes, and a 27.5" wheel with a heavier DH variety and 28 spokes.
Schwalbe Radial tires, including a Magic Mary Gravity Ultrasoft front and Tacky Chan Gravity Ultrasoft rear, provide excellent traction and control. Raphaela can run low pressures of 1,1 / 1,3 bar (16 / 19 PSI) in wet conditions. The braking system features Hope GR4 EVO brakes with 35-degree angles and 203 mm floating rotors, ensuring precise and controlled stopping.
The cockpit is equipped with Hope Union TC Pedals, a 160 mm Bikeyoke Revive 3.0 dropper, and an Ergon SM Women saddle. The bike is completed with Sendhit Nock V3 hand guards and 30 mm Ergon GDH grips, offering a comfortable and secure riding experience.
In my opinion, the Crossworx Dash Enduro World Cup Race Bike is a well-rounded machine, designed to excel in various conditions. Raphaela's partnership with Crossworx Cycles and her own setup choices demonstrate her commitment to performance and control. As she gears up for the 2026 season, her bike will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in her pursuit of success on the world stage.
What makes this bike particularly fascinating is the blend of locally sourced components and European craftsmanship. The attention to detail, from the frame welding to the custom Cerakote finish, showcases the brand's dedication to quality and innovation. As Raphaela takes on the Enduro World Cups, her bike will be a testament to her skill and the brand's commitment to excellence.
