BRENTER C4

the ultimate learning skibike

By: J Aranda Albuquerque NM

 

 

   Everybody in my circle of riding friends had their first skibike thrills on a C4. Its simple design is not intimidating to beginners and veterans alike, who will be seen riding proudly on this gentle, smile-producing machine of canary-yellow frame and red elastomer ball suspension.

The most attractive benefit of the Brenter C4 is that it makes learning incredibly simple. My wife, a first-time rider who had never-ever skied, was ready for Blue hills on her second run. So, nervous initiates may even be disappointed, finding that their original anxiety was unfounded.

 

Long-standing Manufacturer 

Austrian ski manufacturer Engelbert Brenter (b. 1887) patented his design in 1949, at a time when skibikes were transitioning into recreational use. Engelbert's son, Eric, originated more skibike patents that improved its performance, and in 1964 held the world's speed record at 166km/hr (103mi/hr), which was unsurpassed for 30 years. Unfortunately, Brenter models were not seen at races after the 70s, and the company's focus shifted to "racing for fun". This was, undoubtedly, a marketing strategy to cater to a broader recreational audience.

 

  

  

source: www.ski-bike.org
 

Where to find

   Brenter's website boasts to have "over 100-rent-and-learn centers" around the globe. The company's enormous promotion efforts have paid off, since the C4 is the skibike most commonly used model of rental fleets in resorts around the world.  This makes it very easy to find a rental for as low as $25 in the US. However, the SnowbikesŪ are not available for direct purchase on the internet. One must contact a company representative to arrange a purchase.

 

Brenter C4 Performance

 The basic structural design hasn't changed dramatically since its original inception. Sales catalogues from the 50s and 60s display snowbikes where the front tip of the rear ski is attached to the frame. The current design incorporated a moving linkage from the frame to the ski that gives the bike a more stable ride.

After 50 years, the ingenious design of the C4 evolved into having an aluminum frame held with only 2 welds: one for the seat's C-spring, and another for the handlebar guide.

The bike is made in different sizes to fit most riders' needs, but the Large model still felt a bit small for me at 6'2".

Brenter boasts to have the lightest skibike in the world at 15lbs. This makes it easy to carry the C4 on the chairlift all day without the grunting effort that builds up on a long day of riding with heavier skibikes. Riders that are unable to lift heavy objects still find it possible to get on a chairlift without assistance.

The long ergonomic seat is very comfortable but has a bouncy active suspension from the C-spring. The most recent improvement to the C4 was adopted five years ago by dampening the motion with active Elastomer balls under the seat.  The active suspension of the c-spring-and-ball combination lets the bike have some "give" in the ride. The effect achieved is the feeling of "un-weight" that familiar to skiers at the end of a turn.

The parabolic skis carve an easy turn that is almost automatic and requires very little effort. I did notice that the parabolic hop is amplified by the suspended seat, but it is not annoying. The ski QuickChange system allow easy swap to 'cruising' skis to get more speed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Some Disadvantages to consider

The C4 is not designed for high-level competitive racers. Its light weight means the physics are against you to catch up to the heavier racing skibobs. At $1595, the price is comparable to some professional racing bikes. But unlike World Cup skibobs, the light and gentle C4 is not designed for heavy and regular jumping, enduring the terrain park, or doing fancy tricks (remember, only two welds!).  Thrill-seekers are better off renting one to learn the basics, and then move on to a heavier skibike to push their limits.

 

Compelling Advantages

Very desirable is the C4's light weight, so it is highly recommended for riders suffering from any discomfort or disability. Its user-friendly and simple design is not intimidating, making it perfect for beginners. Brenter carries very good carving skis, and switching ski types is a snap with its Quick Change system. The C4 disassembles in seconds for easy transport. There are several sizes available to find the perfect fit for any rider.

      The C4 has our highest possible recommendation for beginners.

 

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Brenter Learning System

Brenter teaches beginners in "Three easy steps": (1) gliding while standing over the bars will get you comfortable with balance and having an easy grip of handle bar (2) By looking were you want to go, the little twist in your body will make you slide in that direction (3) sitting on the bike, look to the desired direction, and lift the foot on the turning side of the Snowbike. Your instructor will give finer points based on your specific needs.

Your first run will be used to find your natural balance and getting used to equipment. A break after the first run (perhaps over lunch?) can be used to talk about the lesson and let the muscle memory sink in. The second run will feel much more natural and in balance. You might concentrate on "finding your edge" by leaning and waiting for feedback from the parabolic ski.  On the third run you may be ready for some easy tree riding.

For as many runs you might get in your first day, one thing is sure - you'll leave wishing for one last run. 

 

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