$2500 (Frame and shock)
29.5 pounds
6.5-inch rear wheel travel
Maverick, (303) 415-0370
Maxi test: December 2005

Highlights: The heart of the ML 8 is the Maverick MonoLink. This hollow alloy piece houses the bottom bracket and connects the front section of the frame to the lower end of the swingarm. The MonoLink acts like an upside-down swing link. The casting pivots on sealed ball bearings and incorporates a mount for Shimano's E-type front derailleur. The shock is bolted in two places to form the forward member of the swingarm. Because the shock is integrated into the swingarm, it is called a strut. The ML 8 utilizes a negative coil spring and positive air chamber.
 
Best quote: "The ML 8 is a nimble handler, allowing its rider to make instantaneous line choices (not that you need to pick lines on a bike with this much travel). "

Bottom line: The front derailleur shifting action requires a massive amount of thumb pressure to move the cage from one chainring to the next. The ML 8 rider has to plan early for every chainring shift and hope for the best. When you buy into the Maverick rear suspension, you are 100% committed to their shock. A technological breakthrough from Manitou, RockShox, Fox or any other shock maker won't do a Maverick rider any good. You are stuck with their strut.