Bionicon Edison

*MSRP: $3,550
Reviewed
June 2009
Email

Pros
  • Unusual suspension system
  • Versatile
  • Light weight
  • Good frame geometry
Cons
  • Not the best choice for heavy riders
  • Expensive

The Bionicon Edison is classified as a backcountry mountain bike, meaning it can tackle any type of terrain, from pavement to extreme off-road conditions. Many of the components are proprietary Bionicon parts that support their patented push-button suspension system, but the nonproprietary components are from top names, such as Oro and Sram. The Edison mountain bike features hydraulic disc brakes and full suspension. It is also pretty lightweight, weighing in at just less than 30 pounds fully equipped. This bike might take some getting used to because of the unusual suspension, but it enthralls most reviewers. The Bionicon Edison is only sold by a handful of bike shops in the United States, so it can be hard to find. Check out Bionicon.com for a list of dealers in the U.S.

We found a lot of commentary for the Bionicon Edison. One of the best reviews is at Arizona Freeride, where experts extensively test the Edison and write a lengthy, but very thorough review of its virtues on all types of terrain. The other highly valuable review we found was at MountainBikeTales.com, where editors test the bike in extreme riding conditions and write an extremely comprehensive rundown of the Edison's features and capabilities. We found additional coverage at bike-enthusiast sites.

Our Sources

1. MountainBikeTales.com

This is a lengthy, highly comprehensive review of the Edison's abilities. Editors test the Bionicon Edison in extreme conditions, including several inches of snow. They tried to find ways to make the bike fail, but the Edison held up under every test they conducted.

Review: Bike Review: Bionicon Edison, Editors of MountainBikeTales.com

2. Arizona Freeride

Examining both the Edison in particular and Bionicon as a brand in general, this review provides valuable information about Bionicon's proprietary suspension system. It also includes pros and cons noted on several very extensive tests of the Edison in a variety of settings with diverse terrain. It gives the most complete coverage of the push-button suspension system and how it works in real-world settings.

Review: 2007 Bionicon Edison, Brendt Petersen, April 11, 2007

3. Bicycling.com

This lengthy article meticulously describes Bionicon's adjustable suspension, and blogger Matt Phillips talks about how the system works in real-life riding. Phillips thinks that the system is great overall and that most writers will like it. However, he notes some awkwardness in climbing, particularly the pedal-feel during steep ascents.

Review: Bionicon's Morphing Magic, Matt Phillips, Sept. 2, 2008

4. MTBR.com

There aren't too many reviews here, but what's here is detailed and valuable. Owners describe likes and dislikes for the Edison, sometimes in great detail. Quibbles are small and varied, with no consistent complaints.

Review: Bionicon Edison LTD, Contributors to MTBR.com

5. BikeRadar.com

This short review provides a good overview, and does refer to some hands-on testing. However, it's hard to tell how extensively the Bionicon Edison was put to the test, and no author is identified.

Review: Bionicon Edison Ltd, Editors of BikeRadar.com

Mountain Bikes Runners Up:

Orange Five Pro MSRP: $1,870 (frame only)

3 picks by top review sites.

Trek 4300 Disc MSRP: $690

2 picks including: Bicycling Magazine, BikeMagic.com…

Giant Trance X1 MSRP: $3,850

2 picks by top review sites.

Scott Scale 29 Pro MSRP: $2,800

2 picks by top review sites.

Santa Cruz Heckler MSRP: $1,965

2 picks by top review sites.

Niner Jet 9 MSRP: $1,850 (frame only)

2 picks by top review sites.

Trek Marlin MSRP:$640

2 picks by top review sites.

Giant XTC 29er MSRP: $2,050

2 picks by top review sites.

Back to top