Velotraum Finder 2 in the test: With wide tyres to test victory

At Velotraum, great freedom is the programme. As one of very few bikes on the market, the Swabians have developed the Finder specifically as a model for adventure travelling. No path should be too far, no trail too difficult for this deliberately robust candidate. Compared to more classic trekking concepts, the Finder therefore has several advantages, which our test bike also translates harmoniously into reality.

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Namely: The extra-wide Schwalbe tyres (60 mm!), which can be integrated into the frame without compromise, even with matching mudguards. Velotraum opts for smaller 27.5 inch wheels - the high tyre volume compensates for the difference to the classic trekking size anyway. The Finder also comes with a robust aluminium frame and a slightly curved top tube for the lowest possible step-through. Unfortunately, the fork limits the payload to a maximum system weight of 150 kilograms. The frame itself is approved for up to 180 kilograms.

Velotraum Finder F2: The facts at a glance

• Bike category: Trekking/travelling bike
• Drive: Chain
• Gear system: Shimano XT (3 x 10)
• Translation: 44 / 32 / 24; 11 - 34 Z.
• Brakes: Shimano Alfine (two-piston)
• Tyres: Schwalbe Al Grounder, 60 mm
• Lighting system: f. / h. B & M IQ-X, 100 Lux / B & M Toplight NE Plus
• Pannier rack: Racktime, 25 kg; Tubus Lowrider Duo 15 kg each
• Frame sizes: S to 3XL
• Frame: Aluminium
• Fork: Aluminium
• Permissible total weight: 150 kg
• Warranty: 5 years
• Special features: Extremely high tyre clearance, triple crank

Versatile and stable: how the Finder rides

The XT 3 x 10 derailleur system with three chainrings at the front seems somewhat anachronistic. In practice, it is still an asset with its wide range, precise function and fine gear gradation. Only on rough bumpy roads can you miss the derailleur damping of the newer Cues or XT models.

On the other hand, the Velotraum can use its wide tyres to its advantage. With adjusted air pressure, no bike rolls as safely and comfortably as the Finder. However, if you increase the air pressure a little, the Velotraum accelerates surprisingly willingly and, thanks to the small wheels and adapted geometry, whizzes around tight corners quickly despite the wide tyres. Riding fun without luggage? Definitely there.

The hydraulic stoppers from Shimano's Alfine range bite perfectly. The straight handlebars with croissants combine good long-distance comfort with good control, even with a heavy load. The Finder doesn't quite match the stoic composure of the new Maxx Pacemaxx, but remains much more agile. The biggest disadvantage for transporting luggage: the fork is only approved for up to 150 kilograms and therefore limits the weight allowance of the bike somewhat. The frame itself should be able to carry 180 kilos.

Does the Velotraum also have weaknesses?

Objective weaknesses can only be found in the details of the Velotraum. Due to the heavy-duty approach, the weight is of course somewhat higher and the aluminium frame dampens a little less than the steel versions from Norwid and Patria. But that's what the wide tyres are for. We would have liked to swap the relatively narrow Ergon saddle for a wider model with better sit bone support. But that can hardly be a point of criticism for a bike with a configurator. With good lights and a frame lock, the everyday utility of the Adventurer is surprisingly high. The wide tyres can also be an argument for potholes and kerbs.

BIKE evaluation of the Velotraum

Strengths

• Versatile thanks to wide tyres
• Successful driving characteristics, high sense of safety
• Fine gear gradation

Weaknesses

• Weight allowance could be higher
• Only five years warranty

Overall grade: 1.7

For details on the composition of the overall score and comparison with other bikes of similar price and range of use, see below.

The BIKE conclusion

Velotraum's Finder is robust and of high quality. As a versatile touring bike that is designed to cope with difficult routes even with a lot of luggage, the concept works perfectly. It remains to be seen whether everyone will like the wide tyres. Objectively speaking, however, the bike has hardly any weaknesses and thus narrowly secures the test victory in our competitive touring bike class. - Adrian Kaether, Editor Test & Technology

Velotraum in comparison: How the finder performs in the test

In our latest test, we tested five touring bikes from Maxx, Norwid, Patria, Tout Terrain and Velotraum. The requirement: A classy chassis for long tours up to travelling the world, with reasonably affordable prices of a maximum of around 4000 euros. Here is an overview of the Velotraum compared to the competition.

Note: The assessment is category-dependent and is primarily used for comparison within the test group. The grades awarded are based on school grades. A grade of 2.5 is awarded for average performance without any shortcomings.