News: KHS Witch Doctor

KHS Bicycles has thrown itself wholeheartedly into the gravity-assisted arena. The three-letter company has production downhill racers, freeride sleds, dirt jumpers and this: a full-blown dual-slalom bike.

KHS Witch Doctor

Technically, the $1,700 Witch Doctor is the same bike as last year's version. One thing KHS did do was add another name, DS2000, to the catalogue for this bike in case any shops object to the name. This is something KHS did across the line. For example, the Dominatrax is also known as the DH100, and the Fetish has a DH50 alias. Why the bike remains unchanged is because it's a niche bike -- it had all the bells and whistles last year and they carry over nicely into this year's release. You'll find things such as a high-end Romic coil-over shock, Magura Julie hydraulic disc brakes, TruVativ Hussefelt cranks, a RockShox Psylo fork and Maxxis High Roller tires. All in all, a solid package for budding slalom riders. Also, since KHS put a triple chainring crankset on the bike, it can be pedaled around fairly easily if you so desire -- at least for a 35-pound jumping bike.

As a play bike, jumper and slalom fun sled, the Witch Doctor is a blast to ride. Its slack angles keep it stable at speed and confident in the deepest berms. The compact frame sports a way-back seat-tube and makes the bike feel roomier than it looks, giving riders plenty of maneuverability on the ground and in the air for mid-flight corrections. Another important aspect that riders appreciated was the rigidity of the rear triangle. It's no secret that the four-bar suspension design the bike uses isn't radical technology these days, but it gets the job done with admirable efficiency.

For its intended purpose, the Doc is well spec'd. Because it retails for more than $1,500, however, we'd like to see the in-house branded bar, stem, seatpost and, most importantly, hubs replaced with well-respected, name-brand items. Also, if you're a serious slalom rider or jumper, you'll want to replace the fork soon -- the Psylo XC can be quickly taxed and tired out when facing serious air.

Overall, KHS has done a commendable job with the Witch Doctor. Their commitment to the small but fanatical speed set shows with solid bikes such as this. The bike is great for playing and trail riding right off the showroom floor, and can be stepped up to heavy action with just a few changes.