Cycle Show 2018 – Stanton Switchback FS First Look

We’ve only just arrived at the NEC for the 2018 Cycle Show but already we’re seeing some very lovely stuff. Case in point, the all-new Stanton Switchback FS.

The Stanton Switchback FS shares the same suspension platform as the larger wheeled Switch9er we’ve already seen, but runs on smaller 27.5in wheels. Like its big brother, the Switchback FS is made completely here in the UK by Stanton in Derbyshire and uses a steel front triangle mated to an alloy rear.

Triple butted Reynolds 631 is used up front with a 44mm head tube allowing you to fit any style steerer you like and a gusset on the downtube to boost strength. The back end is manufactured from aluminium with custom machined dropouts and short 445mm chainstays. Alloy is also used for all of the custom linkages, which run on high-quality bearings.

Two versions of the Stanton Switchback FS will be offered with 2 rear wheel travel options including a 160mm travel Enduro/Park bike model and a shorter travel 140mm aggressive Trail bike variant.

This being a Stanton, geometry is pretty progressive with an 18in (Large) frame getting a reach measurement of 466mm with 140mm fork dropping slightly to 462mm with a longer 160mm fork.

Regardless of fork length, the front end is suitably slack, 65º with a 140mm for, or 64.5º with a longer 160mm model. The  Switchback FS should climb as well as it descends too with a steep 77º seat tube (76º with a 160mm fork).

Stanton tells us that the Switchback FS is now production ready and has already started pre-orders on its website. 4 frame sizes are available with frame and shock only pricing set at £2500. The first 100 frames will be individually numbered, making them even more lust-worthy, but if you want one of those limited frames you’ll need to pre-order right now.

We hope to swing a leg over the Switchback FS in the coming months, so keep an eye out for more news from Stanton soon. Also, keep an eye out for more updates from the 2018 Cycle Show coming today and tomorrow.