Just got my copy of MBUK (I am a little older than their target market).

Thought the 650b Nicolai looked like a nice frame in their ‘frame only’ review.
They then went on about what a bargain it is at £1800 for the build quality, paint and ‘Made in Germany’ badge.

However I am pretty sure that the price is really just ‘frame only’ and does not include the rear shock. So if we factor in a shock at £250 – £350 then the real price when compared with the other frames on test is approx. £2,100.

Not quite the bargain that they insist. If I am wrong MBUK / Nicolai please shout up. I like the frame but not at that price.

Mbuk, 😆

The majority of mtb mags now are filled with lazy journalism, I was gutted when I realized my STW subscription was had gone via direct debit before I could cancel.

Shoot me down if i’m wrong but isn’t this essentially a hand built frame?

Yes, I think all frames are ‘hand built’.
Some in Germany and some in China.