Alta Redshift MXR - Demo Ride Impression

A few weekends ago I had the opportunity to ride the Alta Redshift MXR thanks to the folks at Championship Powersports who hosted a demo day at Mx-Express Toledo. From this opportunity, I wanted to share my experience and give a short, unbiased initial impression of the 4 laps I was able to spin aboard the Redshift MXR.

Keep in mind that I’m a mid-pack C class rider who strives to have fun and enjoy the weekend. I’ve ridden, and owned a range of modern day big bikes including Yamaha, Kawasaki and KTM 125’s to 450’s.

Engine: The power output of the Alta Redshift MXR is impressive! During the four laps that I rode, I used second map which is rated on a scale of one to four (four being the most powerful). I was very surprised at how much torque this bike would produce even while in a lower map setting. The initial power delivery is comparable to a strong 250 two-stroke and the bike continues to pull strong throughout the midrange.

Handling: Simply put, this is the best handling bike I have ever ridden. Despite weighing in at 259 pounds, I was able to carve inside ruts, rail the outside berms, and even tackle flat corners with ease. The lack of internal rotating mass really makes the bike feel light and controllable.

The most direct comparison to the cornering ability of the Redshift MXR is a well setup 125 two-stroke.

Battery: Although I spent most of the day waiting in line due to downtime while recharging the battery, I feel like if I were to own a Redshift MXR with my riding style I’d be able to get three, ten to fifteen minute motos on a motocross track with one complete charge.

Standing in line for most of my experience at the Alta demo day did leave a bit of a salty taste but considering there were four bikes for seventy-five other riders it is hard to really speak for the battery’s capability without actually owning one.

Brakes: The Alta Redshift MXR comes equipped with a Brembo brake package that feels very similar to the KTM’s I have either ridden or owned. The braking system offered plenty of power when needed and a great feel at the levers. The rear brake felt a little grabby at times, but I believe this is mostly due to the lack of seat time on this bike. Overall I’m very satisfied with the braking ability of the Redshift MXR.

Suspension: The Alta Redshift MXR comes equipped with WP AER 48 air forks and an Alta spec WP rear shock. Although I have previously never ridden with a set of air forks, I was pleased with the overall feel and characteristics of the stock WP AER 48 air forks. The forks held up well through braking bumps and did not have a vague feeling that seems to be commonly associated with air forks.

The Alta spec WP rear shock worked well in the corners and chop, but jumping was a different story. The first medium sized table top I launched produced a very springy and energetic reaction, almost as if the shock was low on nitrogen (if you have ever ridden an older bike with blown out suspension you know this feeling). This bouncy reaction greatly affected my confidence hitting jumps on the track, so I decided early on that I wasn’t going to push my luck. Despite this, I believe that with a good day of tuning and more seat time this issue can be resolved. If nothing else, a good suspension shop can revalve it for a better feel.

Recommendations: If I were to purchase an Alta Redshift MXR today, the only big modification I would consider is revalving the suspension. Once the suspension is dialed in, I feel like this bike would be an absolute blast to own.

Overall Impression: The Alta Redshift MXR is an impressive bike, especially when considering the short amount of time it has taken for Alta to develop this machine. At my “C” class skill level this bike leaves nothing more to desire in the engine, braking, and handling departments. Although I experienced shortcomings with the shock while jumping, it is nothing that can’t be adjusted around with an experienced tuner or a proper revalve.

Based off of my demo experience I would put the Alta Redshift MXR on my shortlist of bikes to consider purchasing in the future. The Redshift MXR is a great platform to build from and there is no denying that it would allow myself and other owners an opportunity to ride more frequently due to the lack of maintenance. One of the biggest downsides to the Redshift MXR is the initial cost which falls at the higher end of the price range, despite the recent price reductions.

If you have any questions feel free to let me know and I’ll do my best to answer.