The new Vitus Mythique trail bike promises to be more capable than ever with redesigned geometry and a trunnion-mounted rear shock.
Four models will be available. The entry-level VR has 130mm of front and rear travel, while the VRS, VRX and AMP feature 140mm. Both 29in and 27.5in wheel-size options are available on all models, except the AMP, which is only available with 29in mountain bike wheels.
Vitus claims the Mythique is no longer a “get you started bike”, and says it is now a bike with broader appeal to cater for more experienced riders.
The new Mythique presents good value for money on paper. We were very impressed with the previous model, featuring a version of it in our roundup of the best mountain bikes under £2,000 / $2,500.
Geometry updates
The new Mythique sees lots of updates over the previous model, with cleaner lines matched with modern geometry.
In Vitus’ quest for capability, it has slackened the head angle of the Mythique by 0.5 degrees. This means the 130mm travel version of the bike will now have a head angle of 66 degrees compared to 66.5 degrees on the previous model. The same is true for the 140mm bike, with the head tube angle now at 65.5 degrees compared to the previous 66 degrees.
Vitus says this provides more control while descending, boosting confidence on steeper and more technical terrain.
The effective seat tube angle is now steeper than the previous model with a 1-degree increase on the 130mm bike, from 76.7 degrees to 77.7 degrees. The 140mm bike now sits at 77.3 degrees, up from 76.1 degrees.
Vitus says this balances the increase in the head angle, and positions you further over the bottom bracket for more efficient climbing.
Suspension details
The Mythique uses a Horst-link – a widely adopted suspension system that remains active under braking and is supportive from the midstroke to the end of its travel.
Vitus claims the updated system has an anti-rise figure that is around 5 per cent higher than the previous platform, resulting in a more balanced and less pitchy ride.
The new bike now uses a 185mm x 55mm trunnion-mount shock, which Vitus says has increased the leverage ratio, although progression remains at 22 per cent.
Frame refinements
The brand says all frame sizes will be able to accommodate full dropper post insertion, allowing for more movement over the rear of the bike without the saddle getting in the way.
Keeping its target customers in mind, Vitus has decided to use commonly available 44mm upper and 56mm lower headset bearings.
The Mystique will also use SRAM's UDH, meaning it should be much easier to locate a replacement derailleur hanger because the UHD is available in most bike shops.
Vitus Mythique specs and prices
Mythique VR is the entry-level model. This 130mm travel bike rolls on a set of X-Fusion RC32 forks and an X-Fusion O2 Pro R shock.
The VRS, VRX, and AMP are all 140mm travel, with the top-spec AMP featuring a RockShox Pike fork.
All model variants will be available in either 27.5in or 29in options, apart from the AMP which is 29in only. No mullets to be found here.
Vitus Mythique VR
- Fork: X-Fusion RC32
- Shock: X-Fusion O2 Pro R
- Drivetrain: Shimano Deore
- Brakes: Shimano MT401
- Wheels: WTB ST i30 rims on Vitus KT hubs
- Tyres: Maxxis High Roller II
- Price: £1,599.99 / $1,699 / €1,799.99
Vitus Mythique VRS
- Fork: RockShox 35 Silver TK
- Shock: RockShox Deluxe Select R
- Drivetrain: Shimano Deore
- Brakes: Shimano MT401
- Wheels: WTB ST i30 rims on Vitus KT hubs
- Tyres: Maxxis High Roller II
- Price: £1,899.99 / $1,999 / €2,199.99
Vitus Mythique VRX
- Fork: Marzocchi Bomber Z2
- Shock: RockShox Deluxe Select R
- Drivetrain: Shimano SLX / Deore
- Brakes: Shimano MT501
- Wheels: WTB ST Light i30 rims on Vitus KT hubs
- Tyres: Maxxis High Roller II
- Price: £2,099.99 / $2,299 / €2,399.99
Vitus Mythique 29 AMP
- Fork: RockShox Pike Select RC
- Shock: RockShox Deluxe Select R
- Drivetrain: Shimano XT / SLX
- Brakes: Shimano SLX M7100
- Wheels: WTB KOM Trail i30 rims on Vitus KT hubs
- Tyres: Maxxis High Roller II
- Price: £2,399.99 / $2,599 / €2,799.99
