As we gear up for the 2026 Enduro World Cup season, it's time to take a closer look at the bike that will be carrying Raphaela Richter, a nine-time German National Enduro Champion, through her eighth year of racing. Rapha, as she's fondly known, has had quite the journey, from her time with Ibis Factory Racing to her more recent privateer setup with Crossworx Cycles. Despite a shoulder injury that plagued her last season, Raphaela finished strong, placing seventh at the World Championships and second in the EDR series finale. This season, she's back and ready to tackle the trails with a renewed sense of confidence and a surgically repaired shoulder.
Rapha's Ride
Raphaela's bike of choice is the second-generation Crossworx DASH MLT, a mixed-wheel setup with a 440 mm reach and a 32 mm stem. The bike is tailored to her height of 164 cm and weight of 60 kg, ensuring a perfect fit. The handlebar, from Bike Ahead Composites, is a 30 mm rise with a unique layup certified for e-Bikes, offering a comfortable and responsive ride.
The DASH is a single-pivot design with 160 mm of rear wheel travel, providing a smooth and controlled ride. Paired with a 170 mm travel Intend Carbonite fork, the bike boasts a 64-degree head angle and a 78-degree seat angle, creating a balanced and agile platform. The wheelbase of 1210 mm and 444 mm chainstay length contribute to the bike's stability and maneuverability.
Local Pride and Global Reach
One of the most intriguing aspects of Raphaela's bike is the blend of locally produced and European components. Crossworx, based in Thuringia, Germany, produces all their aluminum frames, and Raphaela's frame was even welded by her boyfriend, who works at the company. This personal touch adds a unique layer to the bike's story.
The drivetrain features a Hope carbon crankset and Garbaruk cassette, with Raphaela planning to upgrade to a SRAM XX1 derailleur for race day. The Intend Carbonite fork and Hover Monocoque shock are impressive weight-saving components, with the fork weighing in at just 2 kg. The carbon wheelset from True BC, laced to DT Swiss hubs, completes the lightweight and responsive build.
Tire Talk
Raphaela opts for Schwalbe Radial tires, a Magic Mary Gravity Ultrasoft up front and a Tacky Chan Gravity Ultrasoft in the rear. This combination provides excellent grip and control, especially in wet and soft conditions, where she can run pressures as low as 1.1/1.3 bar.
Safety and Comfort
The cockpit is equipped with Hope GR4 EVO brakes, angled at a specific 35 degrees for optimal control. Paired with Hope's floating rotors, these brakes offer precise stopping power. Sendhit Nock V3 hand guards provide additional protection, while Ergon GDH grips and an Ergon SM Women saddle ensure comfort and grip during those long, grueling races.
A Season of Promise
As Raphaela prepares for the upcoming season, her bike is a testament to her dedication and the support of her sponsors and teammates. With her shoulder issue addressed and a renewed sense of confidence, Rapha is ready to take on the world. The 2026 Enduro World Cup season promises to be an exciting one, and Raphaela Richter, with her unique setup and unwavering determination, is a force to be reckoned with.
Final Thoughts
The story of Raphaela's bike is more than just a list of components; it's a narrative of local craftsmanship, global collaboration, and an athlete's journey. It's a reminder that behind every successful rider is a carefully crafted machine, tailored to their needs and aspirations. As we watch Raphaela tackle the trails this season, let's appreciate the intricate details and the personal touches that make her bike a true extension of herself.
