Rocky Mountain tested many suspension systems during the development period and drew the following conclusions: Many four-link systems have a low progression rate, 20 percent on average, which means that the shock hardens only slowly as it compresses. This means that the rear absorbs a lot, but there is no bottoming out protection. Some downhill bikes with a virtual pivot point, on the other hand, have a very steeply rising spring characteristic curve of around 70 percent rate of rise. This means a fine response, but little swallowing, but a lot of counter pressure.
The spring characteristic curve of the Maiden lies between these two extremes, with a gradient rate of around 40 percent. In the upper part of the suspension travel, the suspension absorbs subtle bumps, but then begins to harden in good time so that the suspension travel is well utilized, but the rider still gets enough counter-pressure from the suspension.

The development team also spent a lot of time improving traction and control when braking. This resulted in a patented system that allows both compression and rebound to function independently when the rear wheel is locked. This means that the Maiden remains in contact with the ground even during hard braking maneuvers.

Geometry
During the test phases, Rocky Mountain worked closely with their gravity athletes to determine the new geometry. The Maiden's geometry is well balanced and the bike's center of gravity is also central and low. This gives the bike a smooth ride and yet it should still be able to be maneuvered aggressively. The new geometry also has advantages when using 26- and 27.5-inch wheels. Rocky Mountain has not simply transplanted larger wheels into an existing design, which is always a compromise, but has designed the "Equalized Wheel Concept". By using a headset spacer and a second rear axle position, the geometry can be retained for both wheel sizes.

The Ride 4 system for geometry adjustment has also been improved. This has been adapted so that the slight change in geometry has hardly any effect on the suspension characteristics. The Ride-4 allows the rider to change the angle in four steps by a quarter of a degree from ride to ride.

French suspension
With the Maiden, Rocky Mountain relies on the suspension know-how of BOS. The brand of Frenchman Olivier Bossard has its roots at the highest level of rally sport. This know-how can also be found in the mountain bike products, i.e. in the suspension struts and forks in the new Maiden.

The Rocky Mountain Maiden is due to hit specialist retailers at the end of October.

www.bikes.com/maiden