REVIEW: Montague Paratrooper

There is no such thing as a tactical bike, many say, but we have to disappoint them. It exists. It comes from the house MONTAGUE and is called Paratrooper and is probably the most tactical MTB we know. We have tested it for you and also tell you what you can expect from it:

In 1997, MONTAGUE received an order from the DARPA research department of the US Department of Defense to develop a foldable MTB for the US Marines. This collaboration resulted in the innovative frame construction of the X-Series, which has been the heart of all MONTAGUE/SWISSBIKE models since 1998. At first, this bike was not available on the civilian market, but now it is.

For those who want to know the details, here are the technical data:

It must be admitted, no high-end components are installed. But let's be honest, who really needs those in normal city or off-road use. In these two environments, we have extensively tested the Paratrooper and it has proven itself very well. Thanks to its unique frame construction, you attract a lot of attention and you even hear the occasional "What a cool bike!"

The gears shift smoothly, pedal resistance is relatively low. But the real advantage is that it's a folding bike. With a few simple steps, it can be folded and stowed in the trunk or on the back seat of the car. Or if you want, you can even take it skydiving. That's what it was designed for. To fold it, first remove the front wheel from the fork. Then release the CLIX quick release on the frame, and it can be folded. If necessary, fully retract the saddle and the bike is ready to be stored.

CONCLUSION: A robust folding MTB from military research that certainly attracts attention. Definitely worth considering carrying it in your combat vehicle, as you are faster on a bike than on foot. If anyone is interested in the topic of cycling & military, there is a lot of material HERE.

Available at Voss Spezial-Rad GmbH from 998€ (excl. shipping).

The bike in the evolution of military mobility.