Lee Cougan Crossfire 428

Technical data Lee Cougan Crossfire 428 Team
General
Price: 7599 Euro
Frame material: Carbon
Frame size: S / M / L (Tested size M/46 cm)
Further information at > leecougan.com
Measured values
Weight: 11.3 kg
Equipment
Wheels: Ursus Diablo
Tyres: Continental Cross King / Pure Grip Shield Wall TR 29 x 2.30
Fork: Fox 34 Float Factory SC Remote
Shock: Fox Float DPS Factory
Brakes: Magura MT8 SL / 160 / 160 mm
Gear system: SRAM XX SL Eagle T-Type AXS sada, kazeta 10-52T, 1x12
Telescopic seatpost: FOX Transfer Factory teleskopická sedlovka, Ø-31.6 mm, 363 mm/125 mm

On our test benches, the Lee Cougan Crossfire only achieved a low frame stiffness. In practice, this also makes the bike feel spongy under heavy loads, for example on berms. The total weight of 11.3 kilos is also only good. The lightweight frame weighing just 2153 grams with the high-quality components may raise hopes of a top score on the scales, but with the heavy wheels the Crossfire cannot fully realise its potential.

Praise gives's for the sensitive rear suspension: both under chain tension and downhill, the rear end smoothes out even the finest bumps. To ensure that the suspension is free from the influence of the drivetrain, you can use the platform function via the lever on the handlebars. The riding position is very sporty, even in size M, thanks to the low front end with negative stem and long top tube. Long-distance enthusiasts will love this riding position. Compared to modern race bikes, however, the Lee Cougan Crossfire loses some of its poise on the downhill. The slack seat angle places the rider far to the rear. In combination with the short chainstays, the pressure on the front wheel and control on the climbs are lost.

The cable integration in the stem looks stylish, but unfortunately the cables are very difficult to run due to the kink at the frame entrance.Photo: Max Fuchs
The cable integration in the stem looks stylish, but unfortunately the cables are very difficult to run due to the kink at the frame entrance.
The seat stays are so wide that our tester was constantly grazing the frame with large shoes.Photo: Max Fuchs
The seat stays are so wide that our tester was constantly grazing the frame with large shoes.
Conclusion on the Lee Cougan Crossfire 428 Team:
Max Fuchs, BIKE test editor: The riding position is reminiscent of the parent generation of modern race bikes. If you like to collect kilometres under power and avoid technical trails, the Crossfire is a good choice. Demanding descents are not in its specification.

Max Fuchs, BIKE test editorPhoto: Max Fuchs
Max Fuchs, BIKE test editor
You can download the complete test with all riding impressions and ratings from BIKE 7/2022 as a PDF below the article.