Get ready for an inside look at Raphaela Richter's Enduro World Cup race bike and the fascinating story behind this seasoned champion's journey.
The Champion's Comeback
Nine-time German National Enduro Champion Raphaela Richter is gearing up for her eighth season of Enduro World Cup racing. With a successful shoulder surgery and a renewed sense of confidence, Raphaela is ready to tackle the 2026 season. Her journey as a privateer, documented in an insightful video, highlights the mental challenges of being off the bike and the importance of her support system.
Bike Specs and Insights
Raphaela's race bike, the Crossworx DASH MLT, is a custom build with a unique mix of components. Standing at 5'5" and weighing 132 lbs, Raphaela rides a 440 mm reach frame with a 32 mm stem. The bike features a linkage-driven single pivot suspension with 160 mm of rear wheel travel, paired with a 170 mm travel Intend Carbonite fork. What's particularly interesting is that Raphaela's boyfriend, who also works for Crossworx, welded her frame. This personal touch adds a layer of sentiment to her racing setup.
Drivetrain and Wheels
The drivetrain consists of a Hope/Garbaruk/SRAM setup, with a 155 mm carbon crankset and a 30T chainring. Raphaela trains with an 11s setup but upgrades to 12s for races. The wheels are a standout feature, with a carbon wheelset from True BC laced to DT Swiss hubs. The front 29" wheel has a 32 mm internal width, while the rear 27.5" wheel is a heavier DH model, both with 28 spokes. This unique wheel combination provides a balance of agility and stability.
Tires and Brakes
Raphaela runs Schwalbe Radial tires, a Magic Mary Gravity Ultrasoft up front and a Tacky Chan Gravity Ultrasoft in the rear. The ability to run low pressures in wet conditions showcases the tire's grip and her confidence in them. The Hope GR4 EVO brakes, angled at a specific 35 degrees, provide precise control. Hand guards and Ergon grips offer additional protection and comfort.
Final Thoughts
Raphaela's bike setup is a testament to her experience and the support she receives from her team and sponsors. The custom build, with its unique wheel and component choices, showcases her attention to detail and the importance of a personalized racing setup. As the 2026 World Cup Enduro season kicks off, Raphaela's story and her bike's specs will undoubtedly inspire and captivate enduro enthusiasts worldwide.
