$2845

28.7 pounds

5.1-inch rear wheel travel

Commencal, (866) 424-4600

Maxi test: February 2006

Highlights: Commencal uses a custom triple-butt tube set specific to each frame size. Bigger diameter tubes give the larger sized frames better aesthetics. The small and medium sizes use a proportional 27.2 seatpost. The more appropriate 31.6 size is spec'd on the large and extra-large frames. A connecting rod fixed to the top of the monoshock swingarm compresses the shock via a rocker link fixed down in the front triangle. The linkage arrangement reduces the leverage on the shock so it can be tuned for more finite damping. It also gives the Commencal design team more latitude to tune the ultimate progressive damping curve.

Best quote: "It inspires the rider to absolutely fly over rough ground and drive harder into turns. The forward pivot keeps enough of the rider's weight on the swingarm to keep the shock active, even on steep descents."

Bottom line: Commencal's Meta 5.10 is proof that Europe is a step ahead of us. They have taken the 5-inch trailbike that we developed--thanks to Foes, Intense, and Titus--and have run with it. They have even taken the Super D category of racing we developed for these bikes and have promoted it to the nth degree. They also have an enduro series for these bikes that includes downhill and uphill stages.