Aspect has announced the AMP CF Expert, its flagship carbon fiber cross-country hardtail weighing 11.06 kg for size M, equipped with a Toray T1000 frame and Shimano SLX 12-speed drivetrain. Priced at 201,990 RUB and launching in March 2026, this bike targets competitive XC riders seeking premium components without Chinese alternatives.
Russian brand Aspect positions this model as a high-end option in its AMP series, emphasizing race-ready performance for marathons and cross-country events. Riders focused on weight savings and reliable shifting will find it compelling amid growing demand for carbon frames in the sub-12 kg category.
Background
Aspect, a Russian bicycle manufacturer, specializes in mountain bikes for cross-country and trail riding. The brand has built a reputation for accessible performance gear, distributing through networks like Velograd and Velosaratov across Russia. The AMP series represents Aspect’s push into competitive XC, with the new CF (Carbon Frame) lineup marking a step up from aluminum models like the AMP Expert 29.
For 2026, Aspect introduces carbon frames using Toray T1000 material across the AMP CF range, starting with the Expert as the top model. This follows their catalog’s initial pricing, now adjusted slightly higher. The brand emphasizes domestic assembly with proven components, avoiding lower-cost alternatives to ensure durability in racing conditions.
Key Specifications
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Frame | Toray T1000 Carbon, Double Slit technology |
| Fork | RockShox SID, 110 mm travel, 35 mm stanchions, air-oil, compression/rebound adjust |
| Drivetrain | Shimano SLX 12-speed rear derailleur (Sram UDH hanger), Deore shifter, Deore 10-51T cassette |
| Wheels/Tires | Boost spacing, Vittoria Mezcal 29×2.4″ (TR, Race Formulation Graphene + Silica) |
| Dropper Post | Tranz-X, 125 mm travel |
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc (specific model not confirmed) |
| Weight (Size M) | 11.06 kg |
| Price | 201,990 RUB |
| Wheel Size | 29″ |
| Availability | March 2026, sizes including M, L (175-185 cm), XL |
Sources confirm the blue color option and male-oriented geometry. Handlebar details from retailers: Code 106 Alloy, 780 mm wide, 31.8 mm clamp.
Frame and Suspension Analysis
The Toray T1000 carbon frame weighs around 1100 g, per retailer specs, enabling the full bike’s 11.06 kg claim for size M. Aspect’s Double Slit technology features two slits along the seat tube to minimize water ingress, a practical detail for wet XC conditions. Geometry aligns with modern XC race standards, though exact angles remain unconfirmed beyond retailer mentions of compatibility with dropper posts and Boost spacing.
Up front, the RockShox SID fork with 110 mm travel and 35 mm stanchions offers precise control via compression and rebound adjustments. This setup suits aggressive XC climbing and descending, outperforming basic air forks in damping consistency.
Drivetrain and Components
Power delivery comes from a 12-speed Shimano SLX rear derailleur on a Sram UDH hanger, paired with Deore shifter and 10-51T cassette for wide-range gearing. This combination delivers crisp shifts under load, standard for high-end XC without XT-level premiums. Tires—Vittoria Mezcal 29×2.4″ with Graphene + Silica compound—prioritize speed and grip on mixed terrain.
The Tranz-X 125 mm dropper post adds versatility for technical sections, a must for modern XC. Retailers note hydraulic disc brakes, likely Shimano MT series, though the exact rotors are unconfirmed. Overall build avoids unbranded parts, focusing on reliability.
Performance Expectations
At 11.06 kg, the AMP CF Expert undercuts many carbon XC bikes while matching pro-level specs. Expect strong climbing efficiency from the rigid carbon rear and SID fork, with 29″ wheels aiding rollover on roots and rocks. Unanswered: full geometry chart, brake models, crankset details, and exact wheelset (Boost confirmed).
Comparison with Competitors
| Model | Weight (M) | Drivetrain | Fork | Price (RUB equiv.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aspect AMP CF Expert | 11.06 kg | Shimano SLX 1×12 | RockShox SID 110 mm | 201,990 |
| Aspect AMP Expert 29 (alum, 2025) | 13.2 kg | Shimano XT 1×12 | RockShox Judy 100 mm | ~150,000 (est.) |
| Typical Scott Spark RC (carbon) | ~11-12 kg | Shimano XT/SLX | Fox 32/ SID 110-120 mm | 300,000+ |
Aspect’s carbon model saves 2+ kg over its aluminum sibling, closing the gap to global brands like Scott at a fraction of import prices. Lacks full suspension but excels in hardtail purity.
Verdict
The Aspect AMP CF Expert delivers pro XC performance at 201,990 RUB, ideal for Russian racers prioritizing light weight and Shimano reliability over brand prestige. Buy if you’re sizing M/L/XL for marathons; wait for full specs if dropper travel or brakes matter. Strong value, but confirm local test rides as geometry details are pending.
