But to „just“ build a hardtail frame is not our way. It had to be a frame as practical as our Liteville 301, convincing, with thoughtful details.
Next to maximum stiffness and durability, coupled with low weight – all part of the Liteville 301 spec – a maximum range of uses was part of the bill. The ample tire clearance part of the Liteville concept, a well designed cable routing for perfect function even in mud and ice and full off-road capability even in competition – no warranty exclusions. All are pre-requisites for a true Liteville.
A few ideas and innovations, ripening in our minds for quite a while, have been put to use in the Liteville 101. Part of it is our new rear axle system, with highest stiffness and functionality, coupled with user-friendliness and reliability. Almost not worth mentioning are low weight and ease of use, always part of our concept.
The frame
For maximum stiffness and durability we butted every single tube several times and created an oversize construction. The head tube, for example, is not, as it is customary, made for 1 1/8“ steerer tubes but for the new 1.5“ diameter, just like in the Liteville 301. Because of the bigger diameter, the wall thickness can be much thinner and the tube is actually lighter than most 1 1/8“ head tubes.
And since the head tube is so wide, the bottom tube with its 53mm diameter can be connected to it without ovalizing. In combination with the 44mm upper tube it creates a super stiffness, well proven in the Liteville 301
The seat and chain tubes have been butted differently to adapt best for the individual stress of chain torque and breaking forces. The bottom bracket yoke of the Liteville 101 has been designed with special attention. We achieved maximum stiffness and tire clearance up to 2.5“ tires as well as compatibility with most cranks on the market.
The drailleur hanger
We believe: an exchangeable derailleur hanger is a necessity on a hardtail frame. But not a buttery-soft found on most other frames known to us. Our own derailleur hanger made from super hard alloy. With it, we achieve better shifting precision and stiff ness..
The RockGuard
An exchangeable derailleur hanger, to be replaced in case of wreckeage is nice and well. But, from our point of view even better...is if nothing breaks in the first place. That’s why we redesigned the Syntace RockGuard for the Liteville 101.
The rear axle system
Standard drop-outs, as used in at least 95% of all Bikes, are – in our opinion – not state-of-the-art anymore. Especially with disc brakes, with better suspension systems and the resulting higher speeds. Our goal was to develop a rear axle system that combines maximum stiffness, functionality, ease of use and reliability.
Different from standard rear axle systems, we use a conical system in the clamping area between drop-out and axle (as well as between hub and axle) to guarantee a rear axle system free of play. This system makes sure that the rear wheel is 100% positioned in the same spot, even after taking it out and replacing it a thousand times.
Everything is being clamped down with a 10mm quick-release skewer. It is even possible, if necessary, to adjust camber and track of the rear wheel. The clamping of this threaded bushing is done with the same bolt that holds the derailleur hanger. To top it off, the drop-outs of the Liteville 101 are, at 25g, super light and their perfect shape make possible an easy connection to the chain and seat stays.
Removing the rear wheel is a simple as with a standard quick-release skewer, just a tad bit more „idiot-proof“.
The headset
If using 1 1/8" steerer tubes in the Liteville 101 four cross, you need to use a 1 1/8“ True Integration headset. We recommend the use of the Syntace SuperSpin, equipped with double-sealed, stainless bearings. For replacement you can use all standard bearings for integrated headsets. The bearings of the Syntace SuperSpin are press-fitted into the bearing cups.
Cable routing
An important (and difficult) task has been the perfect routing of shift cables and brake hoses because the next gear needs to be there when you need it. Therefore we used an unconventional, dirt-proof routing with few and easy radiuses in the Liteville 101.