Boardman FS Team: A Budget MTB Champion?

Boardman FS Team: A Detailed Examination of a Budget Full-Suspension MTB

For many years, Boardman's FS Pro and FS Team models have consistently set a benchmark for what can be achieved in the budget full-suspension mountain bike market. The FS Team, in particular, continues to punch above its weight, offering a level of equipment and ride quality that often surpasses that of hardtail bikes in a similar price bracket. This review delves into the specifics of the Boardman FS Team, exploring its design, componentry, and overall performance on the trails to determine if it truly lives up to its reputation.

A Proven Frame Design: Sticking with What Works

The foundation of the FS Team's appeal lies in its well-proven frame design. Boardman has opted for a robust construction utilising triple-butted tubes, which are further enhanced with strategic bulges and shaping. This engineering approach is specifically designed to reinforce high-stress areas, ensuring durability and longevity. The front end of the frame benefits from a significant boost in stiffness and handling precision, thanks to an hourglass-shaped tapered head tube. This is complemented by a broad down tube and an ovalised top tube, all contributing to a solid and responsive front triangle.

A notable design feature is the pivot for the hanging suspension linkage, which is integrated directly through the top tube. To maintain a clean aesthetic and structural integrity, a reinforcing plate is smoothly welded underneath this junction. Further bracing is provided by a diagonal strut on the upper side, which connects to an extended seat tube. The craftsmanship is evident in the deliberately smoothed-down welds that join the mainframe tubes, giving the frame a seamless carbon-like look – a subtle touch that elevates its visual appeal.

While the frame doesn't feature internal routing for a dropper seatpost, it does come equipped with discreet clips along the top tube for external cable or hose routing. Practicality is also a strong suit, with a curved seat tube, an asymmetric keyhole chainstay bridge, and a bridge-free seatstay design all contributing to generous clearance for wider tyres. Although the FS Team does not boast the 142x12mm thru-axle rear end found on its pricier FS Pro sibling, its chainstay pivots are double-sided. This construction method contributes to a reasonably stiff and reliable rear end, crucial for efficient power transfer and predictable handling.

It's worth noting that to maintain its competitive pricing, the frame is offered in only three sizes. This is a common compromise in the budget sector, and riders may need to be mindful of sizing to achieve the optimal fit.

Generous Kit for Your Cash: Componentry Breakdown

Boardman's strategy of selling directly through the mega-retailer Halfords, combined with limited frame design changes and sizing, allows them to allocate a significant portion of their budget to componentry. This translates into excellent value for the consumer.

The front suspension is handled by a RockShox Sektor fork. This fork features a tapered steerer tube and securely connects to the front wheel via a 15mm thru-axle, providing a much-needed increase in stiffness and steering precision compared to traditional quick-release systems. While the heavy steel stanchions add a small amount of weight, the fork offers reasonable rebound adjustment and a basic low-speed compression damping dial, allowing for some tuning of the ride feel. At the rear, the bike is equipped with a RockShox Monarch rear shock. While this shock primarily offers adjustable rebound, it's generally considered a consistently controlled unit, although some riders might experience initial setup challenges or, as in one instance, a faulty unit requiring replacement.

The drivetrain is a SRAM affair, featuring a clutch-equipped X7 Type 2 rear derailleur. This clutch mechanism significantly reduces chain slap, leading to a quieter ride and less stress on the drivetrain components. It also simplifies wheel removal thanks to the convenient Cage Lock button. The FSA crankset, with its twin-ring setup and thru-axle, is not only aesthetically pleasing but also appreciably stiff, contributing to efficient power delivery.

The wheels are built around high-quality Mavic XM319 rims, paired with hubs that offer reliable performance. The Continental X-King tyres, while budget-oriented, are notably grippier than previous iterations, thanks to their production in Conti's own Asian factory. This improved grip is a welcome upgrade for confidence on varied terrain. Braking is handled by Avid Elixir brakes, which are further enhanced with quieter Centerline rotors. The inclusion of a 170mm disc rotor on the front is a slightly unusual but potentially beneficial choice, offering a good balance of stopping power and modulation.

The finishing kit is predominantly Boardman's own-brand components. This includes a usefully short stem that quickens steering responses, a mid-width handlebar offering a comfortable hand position, and a firmly comfortable saddle that provides adequate support on longer rides.

On-Trail Performance: Fast-Feeling and Impressively Precise

When it comes to the ride experience, the Boardman FS Team offers a character that is both engaging and confidence-inspiring, particularly for its price point. The geometry, with its backswept seat tube and significant rearward offset on the seatpost, tends to place the rider in a more rearward saddle position. This might require some adjustment, with many testers finding themselves sliding the saddle forward on its rails to achieve a more balanced pedalling position. Fine-tuning the rear shock pressure is also essential; the bike often requires more pressure than initially expected to minimise unwanted bobbing, especially when pedalling out of the saddle.

Despite these minor setup considerations, the relatively low wheel weight and fast-rolling Continental X-King tyres allow the bike to accelerate quickly and maintain momentum, especially when seated and spinning. The fast-feeling and impressively precise handling is a significant highlight. This is largely attributable to the stiff frame and the reliable tracking offered by the tapered-steerer, thru-axle equipped front end. The steering is sharp and accurate, allowing riders to navigate technical sections with confidence. While the bike might not exude the same level of relaxed, rowdy-trail confidence as more expensive enduro or downhill-focused machines, it certainly doesn't shy away from a bit of action. It can handle its fair share of rough terrain, whether you're pushing through rocky descents or weaving through challenging obstacles.

One area where the rear suspension can occasionally impact stability is during hard cornering or aggressive braking. The shock can dive deep into its travel, leading to a feeling of an overly tall front end. This can be somewhat mitigated by reducing fork pressure and pushing the saddle further forward, though this may compromise the effective frame reach. The relatively short wheelbase can also, at times, undermine confidence in high-speed, sweeping turns, particularly on slippery surfaces.

However, for riders seeking a bike that feels naturally quick and handles with impressive accuracy, the Boardman FS Team remains an excellent choice. It offers smooth-riding value for money, making it an accessible entry point into the world of full-suspension mountain biking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is the Boardman FS Team suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Boardman FS Team is an excellent choice for beginners due to its robust build, forgiving geometry, and the added benefit of full suspension which aids in comfort and control on varied terrain.

Q2: What type of riding is the FS Team best suited for?
The FS Team is a versatile all-round trail bike. It excels on cross-country trails, gentle downhill sections, and general trail riding. It's capable of handling moderate technical terrain but might be outmatched on extremely aggressive downhill tracks or demanding enduro routes.

Q3: What are the main advantages of the FS Team over a hardtail at the same price?
The primary advantage is the full suspension, which provides significantly more comfort, better traction, and improved control on rough or uneven surfaces. This allows riders to tackle descents with more confidence and maintain momentum through choppy terrain.

Q4: Are there any significant upgrades recommended for the Boardman FS Team?
While the bike comes well-specced, potential upgrades could include a dropper seatpost for improved descending capabilities, or a more adjustable rear shock for finer-tuning of the suspension. However, for its price point, it offers a very competitive package straight out of the box.

Q5: How does the FS Team compare to the Boardman FS Pro?
The FS Pro is typically a step up, often featuring a higher-specification fork and rear shock, a 142x12mm thru-axle rear end for increased stiffness, and potentially lighter components. The FS Team, however, offers a more budget-friendly entry into Boardman's full-suspension range while still delivering a capable and enjoyable ride.

In conclusion, the Boardman FS Team for 2016 remains a formidable contender in the budget full-suspension market. Its blend of proven frame design, reliable componentry, and engaging ride characteristics makes it a fantastic option for riders looking to experience the benefits of full suspension without breaking the bank. While minor setup adjustments might be needed, the overall package offers exceptional value and a thoroughly enjoyable riding experience.

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