In terms of forks, the "Nixon" family is the star of 2005: designed for all-round use, even in tough terrain, these forks offer infinitely adjustable suspension travel over an enormous range thanks to the "IT" handlebar lever. This technology, which is only used on forks with air as the suspension medium, is also available on selected "Skareb", "Minute" and "Black" forks. With the three "Stance" models, Manitou is addressing the growing community of young jumpers and freeriders who need robust material and lots of travel but have to make do with a limited budget. The fun starts with the "Stance Static", which offers 10 centimeters of travel for 450 francs, followed by the "Stance Flow" and the double-bridge fork "Stance Kingpin", which are somewhat more expensive but also more forgiving. Finally, Manitou is increasing the Sherman forks with a 1 1/8-inch steerer tube to 15 centimetres of travel for 2005, while the Onepointfive head tube also offers 170 millimetres with just one fork crown. For better climbing characteristics, these forks can be lowered by 4 centimetres as usual thanks to "Rapid Travel II".

The highlights of the Manitou shocks in quick succession: The tried-and-tested Swinger SPV shocks are being given the next development stage of the "SPV Evolve" bob suppression system. The Americans are also launching two entry-level models with "Platform Plus", a cheaper version of the SPV anti-roll technology, in the form of the "Radius" air shocks and the "Metel" steel spring shocks. In addition, Manitou will be launching the voluminous "Evolver" air shock in 2005, which is designed to help downhill bikes slim down considerably. At 600 grams, the part is significantly lighter than the large downhill suspension struts with coil springs made of steel or titanium - and is already being ridden by the professionals of the Intense team.