Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 Review
- Price: $5307
- Frame: Carbon fiber
- Wheels: 29″ Aluminum
- Gear: 1×12
What we like about it: A full-suspension enduro mountain bike with high-end components.
What we did not like about it: The inability to take advantage of a flatter track.
Rating (4.6/5)
Lapierre is a bicycle manufacturer from France that has been producing bikes since 1946. What began as a small workshop has now grown into a leading brand in the global bicycle market.
Lapierre is known for designing high-quality bikes at the highest level. The company places a strong emphasis on innovation and constantly pushes the boundaries of bicycle design and engineering.
One of Lapierre’s most successful and popular series is the Zesty series. Introduced in 2008, the Zesty series is a high-end full-suspension mountain bike. Since then, the Zesty has evolved into a range of bikes that cater to a wide range of riders and terrain types.
The Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 is a top-of-the-line mountain bike designed for all-mountain and off-road riding. It features a full carbon fiber frame and a host of high-end components, including the Fox Performance Float 36 front fork, Shimano GX and NX Eagle drivetrain systems, and hydraulic disc brakes.
This bike is an ideal choice for experienced riders who are seeking a high-performance machine that can handle any obstacles they encounter.
Whether you’re participating in endurance races, exploring new mountain trails, or shredding at the local mountain bike park, the Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 is a bike that will inspire your confidence and help you push your limits.
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Riding Experience
The Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 is a full-suspension endurance mountain bike designed for demanding professional off-road riders. This bike is built to tackle the toughest terrains, from steep technical descents to challenging climbs. It’s a perfect bike for riders who want to push their limits and take on the most unforgiving trails.
For riders looking to fully utilize the Zesty AM CF 7.9, there are plenty of opportunities to do so. One of the best ways to experience the full potential of this bike is by participating in mountain bike shuttles.
Shuttles are services that take riders and their bikes to the top of the mountains, allowing them to ride down the best trails without the grueling uphill climbs. It’s a great way to get in a lot of riding within a short period.
For riders looking to maximize their time on the trails, it’s a perfect choice.
Cross-Country Racing
Another great way to test the Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 is by participating in cross-country races. These races have been gaining popularity among mountain biking enthusiasts for good reason. They aim to test riders’ skills and endurance on various terrains, including steep climbs and technical descents.
The Zesty AM CF 7.9 is the perfect bike for tackling these races. Its full suspension and high-end components are designed to handle any mountain terrain. By the way, it’s essential to book accommodation in advance. And for this trip, I booked through skyscanner again because I’m familiar with it and it gives me peace of mind.
One of my memorable rides with the Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 took place in Whistler, British Columbia, Canada. I participated in the Crankworx Whistler cross-country race, which is one of the most challenging and prestigious races in the world.
The terrain in Whistler is steep, and technical, with roots, rocks, and drop-offs. Even the most experienced riders can feel nervous. However, with the Zesty AM CF 7.9, I felt confident and in control.
The suspension system absorbed bumps and drops, and its lightweight carbon fiber frame was agile and nimble. It allowed me to maneuver through narrow and technical sections of the track with ease. In the end, I completed the race with a decent result and a tremendous sense of accomplishment.
Swiss Epic Race
Another unforgettable ride with the Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 was during the Swiss Epic race in the Swiss Alps. It is a multi-day race where riders traverse through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. The terrain in Switzerland is steep, rocky, narrow, and exposed, which can be incredibly intimidating.
But with the Zesty AM CF 7.9, I felt confident and in control. The bike’s suspension system effortlessly handled rocky descents, and the dropper post allowed me to quickly and easily adjust my seat height for steep climbs.
The advantage of the lightweight carbon fiber frame was particularly noticeable during long and grueling ascents. It allowed me to conserve energy and stay fresh during technical descents.
When I completed the race, I felt exhausted but exhilarated. I had overcome a personal challenge, and I was grateful for the performance of the Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9.
In conclusion, the Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 is an exceptional bike and an ideal choice for demanding professional cross-country riders. Whether you are participating in mountain bike shuttle races or cross-country races, this bike can handle any off-road event.
With its lightweight carbon fiber frame and high-end components, it is a bike that inspires confidence and helps you push your limits. If you are looking for a bike that can tackle the most challenging terrains, you should consider the Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9.
Specification
The Lapierre Zesty AM Ultimate 150mm (29-inch) full carbon mountain bike features a high-end component setup designed for off-road enthusiasts seeking professional riding experiences.
The frame is constructed with full carbon fiber, making it incredibly lightweight and durable. The 29-inch wheels provide excellent maneuverability and stability.
The drivetrain includes an SRAM GX Lunar Eagle 12spd rear derailleur, SRAM GX Lunar Eagle BOOST148 Dub 12SPD crankset, and SRAM NX Eagle 12spd shifter, delivering smooth and precise shifting performance.
The braking system consists of SRAM G2 R black brake levers and SRAM Centerline rounded rotors, providing powerful and reliable braking capability. Overall, the Lapierre Zesty AM Ultimate 150mm (29-inch) full carbon mountain bike offers a top-notch configuration optimized for endurance races and all-mountain riding.
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What do we like about it?
- Lightweight and durable full carbon fiber frame
- 29″ wheels providing excellent maneuverability and stability
- 150mm suspension travel offering a comfortable and responsive ride
- Smooth and precise shifting with the SRAM GX Lunar Eagle 12spd rear derailleur
- Efficient power transfer with the SRAM GX Lunar Eagle BOOST148 Dub 12SPD crankset
- Accurate and reliable shifting with the SRAM NX Eagle 12spd shifter
- Powerful and reliable SRAM G2 R gloss black brake levers and SRAM Centerline rounded rotors
- Lapierre dropper seatpost by JD with 100mm, 130mm, or 150mm travel options for adjustable saddle height
- Outstanding traction and control with Maxxis Assegai 3C MaxxTerra/EXO+/TR and Minion DHR Wide Trail tires
- Lapierre grips provide comfortable and secure grip
What don’t we like about it?
- Not suitable for use on flatter tracks.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for an aggressive riding style?
Sure. The Zesty AM Full Carbon Ultimate 150mm (29″) travel bike is designed for professional trail riders and cross-country racers. Its full carbon frame, 150mm travel suspension, and powerful SRAM G2 R gloss black brakes make it a great choice for aggressive riding styles.
- How does the 29-inch wheelset perform compared to other sizes?
The 29″ wheelset offers superior handling and stability, especially over rough terrain. It’s also easier to get over obstacles and holds its power better than smaller wheelsets. This makes it a popular choice for mountain bikers.
- Is the Lapierre’s drop-down seatpost adjustable during the ride?
Yes, the Lapierre dropper by JD can be adjusted on the go using the remote control mounted on the handlebar. This allows you to quickly and easily adjust your saddle height without the need to stop and dismount.
- What is the weight of this bike?
The weight of the Lapierre Zesty AM Full Carbon Ultimate 150mm (29″) Travel bike is not listed. However, its full carbon fiber frame and lightweight components make it a relatively light bike compared to other full-suspension mountain bikes.
- Is this bike compatible with tubeless tires?
Yes, the Rodi Tryp 30 tubeless rims and Maxxis Assegai 3C MaxxTerra/EXO+/TR and Minion DHR Wide Trail tires are compatible with the tubeless setup. This allows you to use lower tire pressures for better traction and control without having to worry about pinching.
Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 Specs
Build
| Frame | Zesty AM Full Carbon Ultimate 150mm (29″) Travel Pressfit, Boost, Metric, Thru Axle BB Standard: BB86/BB92, Press Fit |
| Fork | New Fox Performance 36 Float 3 Pos Micro Adj Lever 150mm 29″ 44mm Rake |
| Bottom Bracket | SRAM Dub PF MTB 92 |
| Headset | FSA Orbit Zero Stack |
| Stem | LP Full CNC Alloy 0° 40MM (S) 45MM (M) 50MM (L/XL) |
| Handlebar | Lapierre alloy 6061DB, Width: 760mm, Rise: 15mm, (S/M), Width: 780mm, Rise: 30mm (L/XL), Ø: 31.8mm bar bore |
| Saddle | Lapierre CRMO by Velo |
| Seatpost | Lapierre dropper by JD, travel: 100mm (S), 130mm (M), 150mm (L/XL) |
| Pedals | FPD NW-91K steel cage |
| Grips | Lapierre Grips S/M: Small Diameter L/XL: Large Diameter |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM Gx Lunar Eagle 12spd |
| Crank | SRAM Gx Lunar Eagle BOOST148 Dub 12SPD. 165/32T (S) 170/32T (M) 175/32T (L, XL) |
| Shifters | SRAM NX Eagle 12spd |
| Cassette | SRAM Eagle PG1210 11-50 12 spd |
| Chain | SRAM SX Eagle 12s |
| Brakes | SRAM Centerline Rounded 200/180 |
| Brake Levers | SRAM G2 R Gloss Black (4pist) |
Wheels
| Rims | Rodi Tryp 30 tubeless ready, 30-622 (29″) |
| Tires | Maxxis, front: ASSEGAI 3C MaxxTerra/EXO+/TR 29X2.50 Wide Trail 29×2.5 / rear: Minion DHR Wide Trail 29×2.4 |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click View | Drivetrain | Frame material | Groupset |
| Canyon Spectral 27.5 CF 9 | Click View | 1×12 electronic | Carbon Fiber | Sram GX Eagle AXS, X1 |
| Transition Sentinel Carbon Complete NX | Click View | 1×12 | Carbon Fiber | Sram NX Eagle, Truvativ Stylo |
| Trek Slash 9.7 SLX/XT | Click View | 1×12 | Carbon Fiber | Shimano XT, SLX |
| Santa Cruz MEGATOWER S / Carbon C / 29 | Click View | 1×12 | Carbon Fiber | Sram GX Eagle |
Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 vs Canyon Spectral 27.5 CF 9
From the comparison between these two bikes, it is evident that the Canyon Spectral 27.5 CF 9 has a higher price tag. However, they both belong to the category of endurance race bikes.
The higher price of the Canyon Spectral 27.5 CF 9 is justified by the use of carbon fiber wheels, which provide lighter weight, increased rigidity, and some degree of shock absorption. Additionally, the upgraded electronic shifting gives the bike a sleeker overall appearance.
In terms of suspension, the latter bike uses a higher-travel suspension, allowing for better hand shock absorption during fast descents and providing riders with improved control.
As for wheel size, the Canyon Spectral 27.5 CF 9 features a smaller wheel diameter, making it suitable for riders of shorter stature.
Learn More: Is Canyon Spectral 29 CF 7 Worth Buying? [Canyon Spectral 29 CF 7 Review]
Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 vs Transition Sentinel Carbon Complete NX
The Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 features a full carbon frame, while the Transition Sentinel Carbon Complete NX has a carbon front triangle and an aluminum rear triangle.
And Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 combines GX and NX Eagle components, while the Transition Sentinel Carbon Complete NX is equipped with a full NX Eagle groupset.
Moreover, Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 is marketed as a full mountain bike, while the Transition Sentinel Carbon Complete NX is promoted as a long-travel off-road bike.
In the end, the choice between these two bikes will come down to personal preference and riding style. The Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 may be a better option for those who prioritize a full carbon frame and a combination of high-end components.
On the other hand, the Transition Sentinel Carbon Complete NX may be a better choice for those who prioritize a full NX Eagle groupset and prefer the geometry suited for off-road riding.
Learn more : Is Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox Splendid – [Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox Review]
Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 vs Trek Slash 9.7 SLX/XT
As you can see from our comparison, both bikes are the same enduro full-suspension mountain bike. The same carbon fiber frame and aluminum wheelset are used. The same enlarged 29″ wheelset has a very good passing ability. The hydraulic disc brakes also have a very good braking effect.
In terms of cushioning travel, the two bikes do not have the same configuration. The latter uses 170mm with 160mm front and rear cushioning, suitable for those most demanding roads. But the former’s 150mm front and rear cushioning would be more suitable for fast shuttling.
Learn More: Is Trek Slash 9.9 XTR Worth Buying? [Trek Slash 9.9 XTR Review]
Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 vs Santa Cruz MEGATOWER S / Carbon C / 29
The Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 and Santa Cruz Megatower S/Carbon C/29 are both high-end full-suspension endurance mountain bikes designed for aggressive riding on challenging terrains.
The Zesty AM CF 7.9 features a full carbon frame, equipped with GX/NX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain, Fox Performance Float 36 front fork, and 150mm travel for both front and rear suspension.
The Megatower S/Carbon C/29 also has a full carbon frame, equipped with SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain, RockShox ZEB Ultimate front fork, and 160mm front and 150mm rear travel.
Both bikes feature hydraulic disc brakes and are designed to handle demanding terrains. Ultimately, the choice between these two bikes will come down to personal preference and riding style.
Learn More: Is Santa Cruz MEGATOWER XX1 AXS Worth Buying? [Santa Cruz MEGATOWER XX1 AXS Review ]
Summary
The Lapierre Zesty AM CF 7.9 is a top-of-the-line full-suspension enduro mountain bike. With its high-end componentry and top-notch frame geometry, it is well-suited for riders who enjoy aggressive riding, quickly maneuvering through the mountains. However, if you are a budget-conscious rider, you may want to check out our more affordable bike reviews.
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