Submitted by
Barney5s
a Weekend Warrior
from United Kingdom Date Reviewed: August 26, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Whites Level
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Great Geometry leading to great handling on singletrack, contact system.
Weaknesses:
Paint job - poor for a modern mtb, frame strength.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized enduro 03-04, S-works Stumpy 06, Scott Ransom
Bike Setup:
Stock, but with Sunline Bars and Thomson elite 60mm stem.
Bottom Line:
Firstly this is no 'all-mountain' bike, it's a trail bike and even then red routes only. Don't get me wrong its inspirational to ride but only in the right places. The Geometry and weight wouldn't support the traditional hack across the Peak or Lake District, the contact system kids you into thinking there's more travel when there isn't so you try bigger stuff and here's where you'll come a cropper, I can't compare it to the Orange 5 like everyone else wants to but I can compare it to the spesh enduro which had the same travel and with that bike the riding opportunities were endless, with the 551 i'd say they were limited. I base this on my experience of it which i'd agree is limited, I've had it 6 months and the bike is bent through the same type of riding I've always done, which is agressive XC, last week a bike fell on it in my garage and caused a dent in the top tube so severe its now a write off, would anyone consider this normal? Finally, over the last couple of years hype has got hold of this bike everyone i know who has had had one has reported cracks on the shock mounts.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
barney
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: August 26, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Whites Level
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Singletrack speed, handling, geometry and contact system.
Weaknesses:
Paint job, build quality, HYPE
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Enduro 03/04, Stumpy FSR S-works, Scott Ransom.
Bike Setup:
Thomson Stem and post, Sram XO/X9, Race Face crack, XT BB, Sunline Bars, Formula Oro Disc, Maxxis 60a 2.35.
Bottom Line:
Its with a heavy heart that I give the following verdict, as this is a truly great ride, fast on technical singletrack, good over jumps, not bad on climbs. But this is a classic case of a bike that's been hyped up beyond its capabilities in short red routes yes, black routes no. In the short time i've had one i've bent the seat tube and not through running the seat post too high, and dented the frame in an innocuous accident that left it as an insurance write off! Bottom line is this is a great trail bike, too heavy for traditional cross country, not strong enough for more agressive XC/Trail, although the travel provided via the contact system lulls you into thinking it is. Finally the paint sucks, the straps from my bike rack wore a strip of everytime, for modern bikes that's just unnacceptable.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rattz
a Weekend Warrior
from Wales! Date Reviewed: July 17, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Brechfa
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Purchased At:
Tredz
Strengths:
Build quality, components, heritage, makes you ride faster!
Weaknesses:
Grips, tyres, not overly impressed with front derailleur on my older 5.2, seat clamp. A little heavy but I'm no whippet so is it me or the bike that's heavy? I think the bike would say me!
Similar Products Used:
Meta 5.2 2007 model.
Bike Setup:
Stock, Float RL forks, RP2 rear, Xram X9 rear.
Bottom Line:
This is difficult to call people. Some cnut stole my 2007 Met 5.2 which I was well and truly in love with. I only paid £1300 for that (£600 off RRP). Following the 'departure' I really didn't want to get another bike. The 2007 model was going to be my last bike and I was planning on some serious upgrades. Now that I had to buy another bike I managed to get a local dealer down to £1400 (£500 off RRP)and bought the 2009 meta 5.2. The spec's are better, the front lockout is probably the most noticeable enhancement, this certainly improves climbing, as does the RP2 rear which also stiffens the climbs considerably. Compared to the older 2007 model which is meant to be stiffer I'm probably not a good enough rider to notice the difference but I do love the Meta's ability to go harder downhills. Now I have the ability to climb the hills better to that's improved my riding enjoyment. The 2009 model is easier to clean with the single swing arm. The tyres will probably need changing to Cindertrails for the Winter, the seat clamp (if you like adjusting the seat down for the interesting bits)is sh1te, the grips are rubbish and getting the seat to stay in position (why they grease these part's is beyond me) was also infuriating. Apart from these minor niggles I am starting to love my 09 model more than the 07 model. The Commencal bikes aren't pretty bikes, mates Specialised bikes are def 'pretty bikes' to look at, the 09 model looks basic but it puts a smile on my face and that's what counts. I've given it a 5 for value as you can't get a similar bike for that price and overall its a 4, only because I'm being honest about the stock items highlighted above which knock it down (replace these and it gets a 5).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cleatus
a Downhiller
from Reno, Nevada Date Reviewed: May 6, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Porky, Moab
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2350.00
Purchased At:
BlackRockBicycles.co
Strengths:
Great parts spec
Pedals great
Awesome descender
Weaknesses:
Needed bigger tires
Better grips
Similar Products Used:
Intense 5.5, Santa Cruz Blur LT, Specialized Enduro
Bike Setup:
'08 Meta 5.5.1 These upgrades made it perfect: Kenda Nevegal 2.35 DTC, ODI Rogue lockon grips, Salsa seatpost QR, Mavic wheelset QR skewers
Bottom Line:
Wow this bike blew me away! It climbs like a mountain goat and yet it's a totally capable descender. It rails the turns and is plush thru the rocks.
I'd put this bike in the same class as the Santa Cruz Blur LT and that's saying a lot!
Got it on sale so it's a great value too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
daredevilcsl
a Weekend Warrior
from Malaysia Date Reviewed: December 26, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Plentong
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
- Good response
- Agile
- Climbing is good
- Great descent
Weaknesses:
- Too much pivot for servicing
Bike Setup:
08 VIP Meta 5, 09 Fox 32 Float 15qr, 08 Fox Float RP23, 08 XT groupset, Hope Pro 2 Hub, DT Swiss EX5.1d, DT Competition Spoke.
Bottom Line:
This bike climb good, descent good, almost is good in everything for AM...is just that too much pivot when servicing the bike...but that is not much to worry as the servicing only happen once or twice a year...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
migzoner
a Racer
from Marin Co Date Reviewed: October 20, 2008
Favorite Trail:
WoodOaks
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
Direct From Distribu
Strengths:
Rides well. Very efficient climber, nimble descender. Virtually no pedal-bob when climbing (with pro-pedal on). Super plush when descending. Great geometry
Weaknesses:
2007 Commencal hubs (stock) were crap. Stock bars not wide enough. Cracked the machined plate welded to the down-tube that is part of the rocker linkage. Broke original linkage after only 2 months. Warranty from France takes months!
Mavic X-Max ST. Tubeless WTB trail tires. X9/X0. Dues XC cranks with rock-ring SunRace Carbon V1 OS Bars. Thomson 70mm stem. Gravity Turbo Dropper post. 2008 Float RP-2. 2009 RS Revelation 426.
Bottom Line:
So SO So So SO SICK. This bike has made me a faster rider both up and down the trails of Gnar-Cal!
This bike is so sick that I've convinced a handful of friends to buy 2008's and I, myself have purchased a 2008 Meta 5 VIP frame.
There's a reason the worlds fastest family of racers and Gracia rides for COMMENCAL!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
cannon 16
a Weekend Warrior
from northumberland, uk Date Reviewed: April 19, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
ActivCycles, corbridge, uk
Strengths:
high speed handling, reliability, traction, strength
Meta Team - Sram XO, Formula Oros, Ringle hubs, Deus cranks/finishing kit, Marzocchi AM SL1 fork.
Bottom Line:
OK, here's the definitive low-down! In a work, the bike rocks. I own the 2007 model, but have ridden the 2008 model extensively, so read on for a comparison. Both bikes feature a superb suspension system, one that is reliable, simple, allows full seatpost movement (nearly, anyway).
It provides amazing traction when climbing and allows phenominal speed when descending. It gobbles up comprerssions, G-outs, drops etc with ease, but is less well composed over rocks, particularly at low speed as when climbing over steps/logs/roots, or when descending slow tech trails with bigg hits. But, then remember this is really a trail bike! Just that it is so camable that you start taking it well into All-mountain terrain. And it copes.
The frame is very strong - maybe a little over built, but the 08 model is lighter and way more XC orientated as the 666 fills in in the range where the '07 5.5 left off. The 07 model will take big drops - I'd be comfortable doing 8' on this bike it is so strong, but it rgularly has to deal with 5'-6' to flat. Nothing has bust in over a year. Not bad for a bike you can race enduros on with a light wheelset. How many other bikes could race the Mega Avalanche and a 12hr on?! And be competetive!!
Handling wise, the bike is amazing and will reward the more skilled, experienced rider who can corner moto style! This bike rails berms and turns like no other (including most downhill bikes), it really is exceptional. It is stable and composed, neutral and asured. Never twitchy, never tucks the front end, though may push the front when climbing unless you use a bit of body english. That goes when descending too - it's not just a bike to sit on and peddle, it needs to be worked - go watch a video of Lopes and learn! Not like a spesh or similar, which really reward a less skilled rider, but are limited at speed.
But there is a down side to this high speed ability - it is a bit of a bus on low speed stuff, not as good as a Kona, say or Cove - techy trails, north shore, techy climbing - not so good, though the 2008 model is MUCH more agile(but less good at high speed). To sum up the handling - the '07 model is a singltrack ripper, really a short travel DH bike, most at home on fairly smooth (typically euro/calif trails with lots of step downs etc - think marathon DH, alps and trail centres with flow. The 08 is way more xc and more of an all rounder, less good DH, but better xc, and for the slower rider: less comitted, less new-skool, ironically.
Reliability has been faultless, except two niggles. The paint is cheap and chips easily, can't remember the last time I saw a bike chip - late '80s? Should be better these days with powder coats that don't chip at all. Secondly the cable routing on the 07 was poor - both mech cables fill with water. Fit Gore cables and ride on! 08 cable routin better but not perfect. Mind you, this problem ain't limited to Commencal - why can't bike companies sort this out? Bearings have been fine despite uk abuse and riding a lot of sand trails. No so with the lame 'zocchi forks tho - dire. I'm about to replace with 140mm Float 36s and a bolt though. How fast will this bike be then?!
To sum up, after a year on this bike I still love it, I was thinking about a 666 this year, but like the light weight and rippability of mine, however, if buying new in 08, I'd get the 666 as I prefer the downhills and am willing to sacrifice some climbing ability to get my fix of the high speed thrills these bikes reward with. Can't really recomend highly enough. So much better than the mainstream competition its laughable. Much better than most boutique brands too - would I spend big money at the house of Santa Cruz/Intense/Turner - no way. Metas are one of the few bikes that are a bargain and top of their tree. Also, a rider owned company that is doing the right thing, not a marketing led mulitnational changing its bikes year on year to justify the ad budget like the US 'big two.' BUY BUY BUY!!! Finally, if buying in the north of the UK - check out ActvCycles, Corbridge, Northumberland - great service and really knows the brand well unlike some of the chains jumping on the Commencal band wagon.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Graham
a Weekend Warrior
from SouthWest West Aus Date Reviewed: April 2, 2008
None. Previous bike is 2001 HT. So bear that in mind as you read the rest.
Bike Setup:
Standard 07 Meta 5.5.3. Med Frame. Marz All mountain 4, Fox Float R, Formula K18 Brakes, Alex Rims, SRAM X7 Rear Der. Deore(!) Front Der. SRAM SX5 Shifters.
Bottom Line:
Picked this bike up yesterday and finally got out on a local trail today. A very long 24 hr wait! My expectations were pretty high after researching this purchase and the Meta blew them away easily. Its quick,smooth and just flows! I still have a smile on my face 4 hrs later! The setup isn't dialled yet, so these are first (rough) impressions. Rear Shock/Susp: very plush, no bob even when standing on the pedals, it just hooks up and climbs. Downhill is just great fun! Marz Fork: a little stiff in its travel but should wear in after a few Kms. Feels solid (no flexing) Formula Brakes: Powerful, nice modulation, easy to apply just the right amount of braking force. Quiet. X7 Rear Derailler : Smooth, Quiet, Precise shifts. Deore Fr Derailleur: None of the above! SX5 Shifters: Do the job. Easy to shift accidentally, watch those thumbs! Alex Rims/Comm Hubs: Seem OK, front may need a little truing as caliper is rubbing disc slightly, but not a big deal. Bars, Stem: Comm bar/stem combo feels comfy, direct. SDG Bel Air seat: feels comfy, easy to get on/off the back.
Still with me? If your wondering if this is the bike for you, i can't say. If you want to have fun, go faster, improve your skills and do it all on one bike, then get a Meta. Its Brilliant!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Lupton
a Weekend Warrior
from Suffolk, UK Date Reviewed: March 31, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Coed Y Brenin
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3600.00
Purchased At:
Glasgow Cycles
Strengths:
Confidence builder. Holds a line where others bail out. Looks. Balanced geometry. Tough. Good kit for the money.
Weaknesses:
Slightly on the heavy side. Stock tyres (Maxxis High Roller 2.35 front, 2.1 rear) are useless in boggy slippery conditions.
Similar Products Used:
Orange 5
Bike Setup:
Stock 2008 Meta 5.5 XT (UK specific build with XT everything + Sun Ringle Equalizer 27 rims. Only changes: Shimano DX M647 pedals, Continental Vertical Protection 2.35 tyres (brilliant) & lock-ons.
Bottom Line:
Moving from a Trek Fuel to this was a revelation. Initial fears that a heavier bike would slow me down were unfounded. I have never had so much fun on a bike. Some reviewers have criticised the slightly steeper 68.5 degree head angle, but I feel that it work brilliantly for all round use. Climbing is no more of a chore than my Fuel, but on singletrack & downhills, especially tight twisty ones, the angles work perfectly for me. Riding buddies with slacker bikes tend to run wide on fast twisty stuff, whereas the Meta is so flickable. Friends with more XC setups are a bit faster on climbs, but are more nervous downhill. I run it with plenty of sag on the rear so with pro pedal off it sits back for downhills, then for flatter XC work, flick the pro pedal on to tighten it up. I am 45, weigh 210lb & it gets me whooping like a kid: what more could I ask for?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Roger Smith
a Weekend Warrior
from Aberdeen, UK Date Reviewed: January 1, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Depends
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
Frame: Realcycles / Bits: Alpine Bikes
Strengths:
Fairly light, tough, great on the downhills, good traction and no bobbing.
Weaknesses:
Can wear through the lower shock bushings pretty fast as there's alot of rotation there. Not a big deal just need replacing every 6 months or so. Having difficulty with the front mech and difficult to set up. Maybe cos it's attached to the suspension triangle, new bikes have resolved this by attaching to the frame.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR, Marin Attack Trail, Trek Liquid
Bike Setup:
Team frame in white, RS Pike 454 Air U-turn, Avid Juicy's, SRAM X9 drivetrain, XT crankset, Shimano XTR pedals, DT Swiss 5.1 rims on Hope hubs, Schwalby Nobby Nics, Raceface bars & 70mm stem.
Bottom Line:
Have had this bike for around 8 months. I'm more than happy with it and have no regrets buying it. Initially built it with Fox Van R 32's but they tucked and dived badly. The slack angles of the Meta mean the seat is quite far back over the rear wheel and climbing meant really pulling into the bars to keep the front down. The RS Pikes fixed all these issues and they are far more suited to this bike.
My last bike was very much XC orientated (Trek fuel) and steep technical sections were generally scary with over-the-bars moments never far away. The slack angles and compact frame of the Meta all provide a massive confidence boost as soon as you point it down hill. In addition use of a short stem and front thru-axle make steering inputs very crisp and the bike very responsive. This bike handles XC very well but it has been designed with downhill in mind which is where the fun's at.
The suspension works really well and is smooth under all conditions. The Fox RP23 is great and although the frame does not need platform damping as it never bobs while your seated, the Propedal switch is handy when you want to power up a climb out of the saddle and leave most other full suss bikes wallowing in their travel. I run with the PP off almost all the time. I set up my shock pressure so I'm using all the travel on most rides rather than on sag alone. This results in me running at about 40% sag which might seem alot but it never bottoms. Other suspension designs can blow through the mid range very quickly leaving you with very little travel to take the hit.
I would recommend this bike to anyone looking for a do-it-all machine. I wondered if 140mm travel was enough until I read the Commencal DH Team used to race these where the course required a bit more pedalling than a full DH rig allows. They have the Meta 666 now but it's basically the same bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete Johnson
a Weekend Warrior
from Preston, Lancashire, England Date Reviewed: December 24, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Rivington at the minute
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
merlincycles.co.uk
Strengths:
Climbs like nothing else I have ever road. Super tracking on the back end means u can throw it rnd the tightest of corners at almost any speed. Brakes that would stop a race horse! Superb on the donwhills. You never feel like its gunna let you down.
Weaknesses:
The hubs r the only thing thats let me down... but I have given them some serious abuse. Easly sorted by an upgrade to XT or similar standard.
Similar Products Used:
stumpjumpe pro. giant trance
Bike Setup:
Commencal Meta 5.5 2 out of the box. Foxfloat r 32. fox rear shock. sram x9 rear x7 shifters LX front. formula oro brakes. truvative fire x with giga botton bracket.race face finishing kit. only upgrade so far are some lizard skin grips.
Bottom Line:
This is a top top bike for the money. I got mine on sale so saved around £600. But it would have been worth every penny at full price. I recommend commencal to anyone whos lookin for a new bike or lookin for a change. Top frame top spec. this bike will not let you down. Buy 1 if you don't get out much because that will soon change. Addictive is the best word!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
KiwiDave
a Weekend Warrior
from Chester UK Date Reviewed: November 6, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Les Arc, France; Sth Spain; Durango Co,
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Purchased At:
Ride-On
Strengths:
Light-weight, Fantastic value, really well balanced means great cornering and jumping, pedals well.
Weaknesses:
Low BB, flexi rear end, poor small bump performance
Similar Products Used:
Whyte 46, Ellsworth Truth
Bike Setup:
Fox R front and rear, 2.2 tyres, Size L frame, Formula brakes (160 rotors)
Bottom Line:
This bike is pure fun, but I do strike the ground alot and find the backend is very flexi. I changed a lot of parts from a retired ellsworth frame (why spoil the new bits) + added wider bars & a layback seatpost. Running wider tyres but want to go wider still so may go to the commencal rear wheel because of the wider rim; also thinking of moving to a bigger stiffer fork, possibly the 55ATA. I find it pedals really well when its smooth but when it gets rough, there is a lot of feedback (compared to 4 bar) - would be great for enduro races and even shorter XC racing. On the bigger stuff and jumps/drops, the rear end soaks up everything. I found it hard to get the sus set up at first especially since the fork isn't giving all the travel and I need to run it very soft. All that said, I love the ride and can't wait to get it out on some serious hills in the Alps (though not sure how far I can push such small rotors)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bromski
a Weekend Warrior
from Glossop, Derbyshire, UK Date Reviewed: November 5, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Dark Peak Trails
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2400.00
Purchased At:
Edinburgh Cycle Coop
Strengths:
Downhill- the geometry is great with slack head angle. Will plough through anything in a downhill direction. Loves rock and boldery descents.
Weaknesses:
Difficult to set up Marzocchi AM 4 fork as it takes very low air pressures. Fork has limited enroute adjustment.Likes the downhill a lot more than the climbing.
Similar Products Used:
First full susser
Bike Setup:
Stock 5.5.3, Marzocchi AM4 fork, Fox 32R shock. SRAM x9 gear setup, formula oro disc brakes, alex DP17 rims, Commencal hubs. Race Face grips added
Bottom Line:
Bought as a compromise really,but really love the bike. Wanted the 5.5.2 but couldn't justify the extra notes. Basically it handles most things very well. It is a downhill slayer, loves single track and is a relatively easy ride. Steep climbs can be difficult, having to sit foward in the saddle to stop the front lifting. Which can be uncomfortable on long climbs. Some cheaper components such as alex rims have been just fine. Still running true after 6 months of punishment. But have never really got to grips with the Marzzochi forks. Air pressures need to be very low to get anywhere near the 140mm travel and the rebound setting on the fork really only works if set on middle setting. Saving for some Fox Talas (don't tell my wife!) But the bottom line is that you get a beast for your cash.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jovey Antonio
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, ON, Canada Date Reviewed: July 12, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Embryo
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Zone
Strengths:
Most stable thing on downhills this side of a DH rig. Handles climbs quite well (with a little bit of body positioning). Beautiful finish - great bang for the buck.
Weaknesses:
Does require some tweaking to find the right cockpit that works for you, but really what bike doesn't require a litte tweaking.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Heckler, Intense 5.5, Blur LT
Bike Setup:
Meta 5.2 Frame, Manitou 3 Minute fork, 819 Mavic Tubeless on CK hubs, Juicy 7 /w 160mm rotors, 2.0 Kenada Karma's, SRAM XO drive train, Raceface Dues cranks
Bottom Line:
I originally rode a SC Heckler and loved the bike for its finish, trail handling and geometry to handle technical trails and fast downhills. Always built my bikes with what is called "All Mountain" part - a mix of xc and free ride parts. I went to an Intense 5.5 for two year- I hated it - too xc for me.
I went to the shop to see what they had, and they showed me the Commencal- sweet beauty - snatched it up. I swapped the parts out and took it for its maiden voyage. Took sometime to get used to the bike, and had to dial in the shock and change my bars to a lower rise. I did recognize on some steep climbs that it washed out, but after lowering bar and changing body position the 5.2 will climb like a mountain goat. True AM frame. Next steps in the upgrade will be a 20mm adjustable single crown fork like a PIKE or Lyrik
Overall - I loove this bike, crappy there are not alot of dealers in Toronto, cuz after seeing a the 2008's (drool) I am ready to pass this frame onto the gf :).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hugh Powell
a Cross Country Rider
from Sunny Scotland Date Reviewed: July 4, 2007
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
Cheap purchase price for the spec' and quality. DOWNHILL ABILITY, reliability, bearing life, FUN!
Weaknesses:
Mines the lower spec 5.4 so it's slightly heavier than I'd like, in hindsight I'd definitely go for the 5.2, the Marzocchi AM2s are very plush but no travel adjust means it's difficult to keep the front down on very steep climbs.
Similar Products Used:
Orange 5, Orange 66
Bike Setup:
Meta 5.4
Bottom Line:
Great bike! The frame design is basically good with lifetime warranty main bearings - no trouble in 2 years hard use, the Commencal hubs were knackered after a year as was the bottom bracket [Gigapipe] other than that it's held up very well.
It's not a climbing bike! At least compared to more XC based bikes, grip, however, from the rear is exceent. Travel adjust forks would sort this IMO but the slack angles means it's awesome downhill, the back is not as stiff as an Orange [but what is] but the front is significantly better, the only weakness is the fork flex when you're really on it - but that's trying to keep up with a Patriot. Flawless gear changes, grip, I've found the High rollers superb, I swapped the front to the back and stuck a super tacky on the front - brilliant. I'm saving for a 5.5.1 ! Buy one!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Mathieson
a Downhiller
from Aberdeen, Scotland Date Reviewed: May 28, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Ability to soak up the hits....big and small. Great uphill traction.
What a difference! Used to riding my Mt Vision for the last seven years and subsequently falling further and further behind on the downhill sections of out favourite trails this bike helps me tackle almost anything. Its ability to transform technical descents and slippery tree root infested trails is revelation. I can now tackle downhill sections at a much faster pace. You can hit almost anything on this bike and it just soaks it up.
Stock Maxxis highrollers had next to no traction and grip on the wet trails that we get for most part of the year in Scotland. Easily swapped - Kenda's are great.
The lower height of the bottom bracket took a little getting used to. Its easy to hit your pedals whilst powering through rock gardens and over technical sections if you don't time your stroke. Ive had no problems pedalling this bike back uphill, but I have noticed that it is harder work on a long haul. I suppose I've been spoiled with my lighter Mt Vision but it's a fair trade off for superior downhill speed and ability. Overall a great all mountain steed and great value too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pinkheadedbug
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, ON Date Reviewed: May 24, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great mix of components, zero bob, capable of tackling most anything. Rear wheel glued on climbs, very plush. Particularly good on fast downhills and all-dayers.
Weaknesses:
Narrow stock tires, slack head angles make steep climbs interesting.
Similar Products Used:
I also have a Niner SIR9 29er and a rigid diSSent singlespeed 29er.
Bike Setup:
Stock except tires swapped for Kenda Nevegals.
Bottom Line:
This is an update to my previous review. I have a few hundred KM on this bike now and haven't changed my opinion -- it's a great bike and a great value.
My only real issue is that the slack angles which make descending a riot on this bike also make climbing very steep grades tricky. In order to keep the front wheel down you have to shift your weight forward VERY smartly, and sometimes compress forward too. I think this played a part in me herniating a disk in February after I tackled a steep climb in -8C without warming up.
This is very much an AM bike as opposed to XC and as a result it feels slow to me on flats compared to my HT 29ers. However, despite the slack angles, the totally glued-down rear wheel makes tough, rocky, rooty climbs more doable on this bike than the HTs.
What I like most about this bike is that you can point it downhill at pretty much anything and not be intimidated.
I have an issue with a gobbling rear brake but otherwise the Formulas are incredibly impressive, so much so that I bought another set for the Niner.
The Commencal hubs have been trouble free for me so far and the QRs are pretty good, better than AmClassics but not as good as Shimanos.
The Maxxis Hi-Rollers which come stock seem like a bit of an odd choice for a bike which seems designed to tackle gnarlier trails... I swapped them out very quickly for Kenda Nevegals. No biggie though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Lee
a Weekend Warrior
from N. Cal Date Reviewed: May 19, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Cyclissimo
Strengths:
Suspension design, well spec for the money. true AM geometry. very beefy and strong frame.
Weaknesses:
house brand hubs and QR, customer service in US is lame.
Similar Products Used:
IH Mark III, GF sugar, Hardtails
Bike Setup:
Stock Meta 5.2
Bottom Line:
The 5.2 is very well spec. except the front hub wasn't very smooth, not sure it's QR or hub problem, the US distributor didn't show too much commitment either. The bike itself is amazing, beefy frame set good for any size of rider, cockpit dimension is very comfortable, the 68* slack head angle begs for downhill in any condition. It took me a while getting used to the climbing geometry, it took me more effort to adjust body position and never be as easy as a XC bike would, but a competent climber with great rear traction. Formula brakes are the best part of the game, I got a lemon set at first but Formula USA replaced them in no time and they rock ever since. Bottom line, don't expect a XC or epic climbing machine, it excels on downhill as well as play-around all mountain adventure.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy Knight
a Weekend Warrior
from South Wales Date Reviewed: May 19, 2007
Favorite Trail:
mynydd maen
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3400.00
Purchased At:
Skyline
Strengths:
Geometry spot on for local terrain, stable and fast on downhills but still climbs up anything ! Suspension works without any fuss, hardly notice it until you look back at what you've just floated over, and no fettling once pressures set for rider weight. Fox forks a little flexy compared to Marzocchis, but way lighter. Components holding up well so far, but early days yet. Overall, a sweet smooth superb handling bike Special mention for the formula brakes, amazing power with only 160mm rotors
Weaknesses:
Stock tyres too narrow (2.1 high rollers) for rocky trails, sweep on bars a bit odd, but both easily changed
Stock except mich all mountain 2.2 tyres, rf bars and lock on grips
Bottom Line:
For the riding i do locally and welsh trail centres i cant fault this bike. Feels fast and light, and I'm as quick (not very) on this downhill as on my Bullit, but its in a different league on singletrack and fast twisty rocky stuff.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: May 10, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Local
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Stable pedaling, good on uphills, brilliant on downhills.
Weaknesses:
Can't think of any.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Trance, Giant Reign, SC Blur, Gary Fisher
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Brilliant. A bike that seems like it can do anything, you push it responds by taking up the challenge. Climbs very well for a full suss bike, descents are even better with it encouraging you to go that bit faster each time, great confidence builder. And them brakes, they'll haul you up in no time but still very easy to control. I doubt if there's a better bike for the money out there.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
GYP
a Weekend Warrior
from York Date Reviewed: April 28, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Well balanced. Endless rear travel, Good small bump tracking,Great slack seat and head angles ask you to throw it into things.
Weaknesses:
Fox Fork for me too lightweight. Pedals clipping ground.BB height says 3mm on Commencal website......Surely not?
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Blur LT, Intense 5.5, Intense 6.6, Tek Fuel Ex8
Bike Setup:
Fox Float R140, Formula ORO8 brakes, SRAM X9, Fox Float R rear shock.
Bottom Line:
Well balanced bike with endless rear end travel.Hardly any bob and it had a float R only. Almost like VPP setup stiffens when the powers put down but unlike VPP very plush on small bumps which is important and soaks up hits and small jumps.My bike had a short stem and narrow bars-too twitchy on sweeping runs but very lively when needed.I would put a pike or similar with a 20mm axle to really stiffen things up to suit the slack head angle as the fox float R140 had too much flex and looked skinny at the front.This would turn the bike into a proper hooligan.Gives great confidence on down hills and moves across the ground well.Best 5.5" i have been on and looks like a proper bike too.Not sure about the BB height as i kept clipping pedals on the ground which was worrying.I had to adjust my riding through tight swoopy singletrack.Just over 7Lb frame weight too that didn't feel too lardy, So a good frame build can be had...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Affendey Kadri
a Racer
from Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia Date Reviewed: April 25, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Siol Hill
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2060.00
Purchased At:
Bikepro Centre Malaysia
Strengths:
Climbs like a Hardtail (thanks to the Fox RP23 shock) and decents like a DH bike but not massive drops (Also thanks to the RP23 shock).
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
2004 Santa Cruz Bullit.
Bike Setup:
2007 Commencal Meta5.5+2007 Fox Vanila R fork+Fox RP23 shock+Sun Rims+Novatec hubs+2006 Shimano XTR drivetrain (except for the cranksets which is the Truvativs)+Easton EA50 handlebar+Kenda Nevegal Stick-e 2.1 tires=11.5kg
Bottom Line:
The bike handles extremely well under long and severe trail rides and welcomes abusive DH runs. If any of you who enjoys long climbs, treacherous single trails or even doing some downhills and drops, this the bike to have and it is worth the money i've put in building it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Weekend Warrior
from Auburn, CA, USA Date Reviewed: April 5, 2007
Favorite Trail:
culvert, braille
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint
Strengths:
As mentioned before, the bike climbs unbelieveably well and descends like a much heavy bike (mine is 30lbs). Coming from a solid 4inch Kona, this thing is scary fast on rocky single track.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
kona, santa cruz, spec
Bike Setup:
2006 5.2 pretty much stock: wtb motos 2.25, time atac pedals
Bottom Line:
I did a lot of research for a 5 inch all mtn. bike and demo'd a few higher priced bikes. Tried the Meta 5.2 and didn't hesitate to buy one. The frame design is amazing and the bike has a very balanced feel to it. The part spec is great for the prize and will upgrade as needed. If you are looking for a bike that will climb all day and more importantly scream down hill this is the bike. Think outside the box and go ride a Commencal!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Malcolm Lockhart
a Weekend Warrior
from London Date Reviewed: April 1, 2007
Favorite Trail:
The Beast, Coedy Brenin
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Head for the Hills
Strengths:
Great kit for the price. Absolutely pleasure on the downhills, very plush suspension and minimum bob on the hills. Superb brakes and good Race Face and SRAM kit.
Weaknesses:
Bushings have been replaced, otherwise none.
Similar Products Used:
Fisher Cake, Scott Genius, Stumpy FSR
Bike Setup:
2006 Meta 5.2 - Fox RP3, Float RL, SRAM X9, Race Face Evolve, Formula Oro
Bottom Line:
Far and away the best bike I've had. Flies on the downs and gets more stable the quicker you go. Very pleasantly surprised by performance on the hills. Very little bob and the back wheel hugs the ground. A great all dayer. Without any doubt the best money I've spent on a bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dustin
a Weekend Warrior
from Philadelphia, PA USA Date Reviewed: March 29, 2007
Favorite Trail:
French Creek State Park
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Very comfortable setup. Grips really well uphill and on burms and such. Rolls well, easy to ride, and very durable.
Weaknesses:
A bit on the heavy side but that is mostly in the components which can be swapped.
Similar Products Used:
Was very near purchasing a Santa Cruz Heckler for $1000 more...
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi AM2 front fork, fox float rear, X9 RDR, X7 FDR, Maxxis high roller tires and sun rims
Bottom Line:
Awesome bike. Could go lighter but I bought it brand new for $1400 with the set-up it has and love the rig so far.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john
a Cross Country Rider
from margaret river,west australia Date Reviewed: March 29, 2007
sooo many,last bike was a turner burner,before that scott,ellsworth,kona,jamis,etc,etc
Bike Setup:
bought as frame only-rp3,fox talas,sram x9 drive line,xt discs,
Bottom Line:
it took me a while to find the love with the commencal.its very sensitive to weight distribution so there was a lot of expereimenting with stems,bars and saddle positions, but now...its pure joy.the frame is so pedal efficient that the pro pedal is used on the road and thats it.Beautiful stiff,precise handling,fast and stable on the downs,great fun on the tight snd twisty.I love this bike,its a genuine all mountain.I have around 30 bikes(I have a mtb tour bussiness) but this is the weapon of choice now regardless of which track I'm hitting.It doesnt seem to jump that well but neither do I so I'll take a lot of the blame there,apart from that it does it all...and it does it very very well-it cranks!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JP
a Cross Country Rider
from Chico, CA, USA Date Reviewed: March 26, 2007
The bottom line is that this bike is a really awesome trail/AM bike. It is NOT a XC bike. I wanted the meta 4, but could only get my hands on a meta 5.5 so I went for it. Let's just say that the first ride was a little shocking. Not at all like the meta 4. It is VERY plush, not stiff and responsive like the meta 4. This bike is for very rugged riding, so if what you want is a bike that goes really fast up and down hills, look at the meta 4. If you want a bike that can ride ANYTHING, look at the meta 5. I love my meta 5, it just wasn't the rig I expected. THis is pure all mountain freeride at it's best.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dirt Dagwood
a Downhiller
from San Anselmo Date Reviewed: February 7, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Zig-Zag
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Mt Tam Bikes
Strengths:
Kick a$$ everything. solid linkage. very plush, awesome AM/trail geometry. climbs almost as well as my hardtail whith the Float RP3 propedal active. under 30 lbs with 5.5 inches of all mountain travel. came with a super nice build kit.
Weaknesses:
rear hub (house brand) blew after a week of riding in the first 10 days after purchase. one weld on seat tube burned thru and can be seen on the inside (so far only cosmetic). frame and design have no forseen weaknesses and I ride 5-6 days a week as I am unemployed and riding keeps me sane and keeps morale up.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Trance, Elsworth Truth, Giant AC.
Bike Setup:
2007 Meta 5.5 Numero 1, Float 140mm RL, Float RP2, X9 shift/X0 drive, Formula ORO K18 brakes 7/6, king headset, RaceFace Dues 70mm stem, commencal medium rise AM bars, RaceFace Dues XC (blingbling) cranks, Time Atac composite, commencal hubs laced to mavic xm321.
Bottom Line:
This bike rips so much trail and will rip both up and down the mountains. I ride it all over Marin County, CA. I ride all the sickest descents and this bike is the best of both worlds. Climbs very efficiently and decends like a short travel DH rig. All while weighing a slim 29.48lbs and built to last.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Garry Bayford
a Cross Country Rider
from Buckingham, England Date Reviewed: February 5, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Afan Forest Wales.
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2700.00
Purchased At:
bikeactive.com
Strengths:
The Large size frame geometry is spot on for me. (15st, 6'1") Component mix is good value and the brakes are fantastic. The paint finish has worn well although the swing arm has taken a beating from crashes.
Weaknesses:
Race Face bottom bracket is not that great as the sealing is very poor. The feehub self-destructed and cannot be rebuilt. The headset has almost no sealing so needs plenty of tlc.
Bike Setup:
Standard 5.20 but now has a Mavic Crossmax ST on the rear beacuse of the freehub issue. Panaracer Fires for most of the year then Panaracer Trailrakers during the Winter. Thompson stem after stripped thread on standard.
Bottom Line:
If you can only afford one bike and want to do a bit of XC racing, bike park riding and XC trekking then I'd say this is a good choice. The geometry is relaxed enough to cope with technical downhills but not so much that climbs are a struggle. After a years use I'm having to replace some parts but I've given it a lot of abuse. My next major item to fix is the headset as the sealing on the standard one is almost non-existent. I've had no issues at all with the Fox front and rear suspension and the suspension bearings in the frame are still doing a great job. I've yet to see any other bike that is as good an all-rounder for the money. I'll be keeping the frame for some time and just upgrading parts as things break/wearout. If I destroyed the bike in a crash I'd buy another.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Brownlow
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto Date Reviewed: January 23, 2007
Favorite Trail:
the nearest
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1799.00
Purchased At:
greenfishsports.com
Strengths:
no bob light rear wheel absolutely glued to ground good balanced componentry for 5.20 version awesome value
Weaknesses:
Formula brakes hard to find service parts for
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Stock 2006 Meta 5.20 build. Used Schwalbe Ice Spikers 26x2.1 for winter riding.
Bottom Line:
This was my first foray into FS 26" bikes, coming off a 29" HT Niner SIR9. Bike is slower on the flat than the 29er but *incredibly* confidence inspiring downhill and as everyone reports, the rear wheel just glues itself to the ground on technical climbs -- quite remarkable. No bob even with ProPedal on lowest setting. A really beautifully balanced build with great drivetrain, brakes and name componentry. Very nice wheelset and tires as stock. Nothing needed to be upgraded. Fox shocks are very easy to set up and tune. Relaxed head angle means very stable on the downhills. Need to get forward on the climbs to keep the front wheel down, but that rear wheel just glues itself to the ground. Lockout on the front shock is very useful and welcome, and completely irrelevant on the rear shock. There is just no rear bob on this bike. Crazy but true. Loves to jump, very stable, quite light. A classic bike.
The 2006 version looks great and you can still find it *very* cheap. The 2005 version has a higher standover because the top tube is not bent. Choose the 2006 if you have the choice.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Creighton Dennis
a Cross Country Rider
from Oakland CA Date Reviewed: January 13, 2007
Favorite Trail:
JM Cinderella
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Ride SFO HQ
Strengths:
Suspension! Just let it take the abuse it is more than capable
Weaknesses:
NA
Similar Products Used:
Specialized XC's
Bike Setup:
5.3 stock
Bottom Line:
This bike is very forgiving! Allowing the rider to let it all hang out! For this price it really doesnot have much in the way of competition!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Colin Cadden
a Cross Country Rider
from Balerno, Scotland Date Reviewed: January 9, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Scottish Highlands
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Merlin
Strengths:
Fantastic climber, great balance, rear-end sticks like glue
Got mine as a custom-build using a VIP 5.0 frame. Total weight now hovering on 30lbs, but that includes GD seatpost and the Cinders. This replaces a Stumpy FSR120 and is just SO much better. Climbing, the rear wheel just sticks to the terrain. Rocks, roots, bumps - it doesn't matter, it just hooks up where the Stumpy would let go. No front-wheel wandering either, which I could never quite dial out of the Stumpy, regardless of adjusting fork travel etc. Better balanced on descents - of course this could be a function of the forks, but I'm not twiddling with front and rear suspension settings the way I was with the FSR120. If Commencal had the marketing clout and manufacturing capacity of a Specialized, Kona, Marin or Cannondale they could clean up the 5" XC/AM market. But maybe it's better this way :-)
btw - I'm 5'7" and on a Medium. Like I wrote, TT height is a bit tight, but other wise it's a great fit. Maybe if I was doing mode DH-style riding I'd go small, but the cockpit length is great for my standard XC riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lee Smith
a Cross Country Rider
from Jerrabomberra NSW Australia Date Reviewed: December 5, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Petit Balcon Sud Chamonix France
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Purchased At:
Chamonix Legeand
Strengths:
Meta 5.2 Best value for money ride on the market. Climbs smooth without bobbing great on steep technical climbs front end easy to keep down. The 5" Travel eats any downhill trial with ease.
Weaknesses:
Replaced Commencal rear hub with mavic deetraks wheel set after bending axel. Formula K18 not the smoothest, they can make hell of a noise, Construction of calliper bracket around mounting bolts is to weak.
Similar Products Used:
Bike Setup:
Mavic Deetraks rear wheel solid steel bolt on axel unbreakable. Fox Float RP3 set sag at 10% no need to use the 3 position lever.
Bottom Line:
Having the Chamonix valley as your backyard with kilometres of walking trails has been the perfect test track for the Meta 5.2. Tree roots, rocks gardens long steep climbs as well as technical and fast downhill the Meta has been an outstanding ride. The commencal has been a head turner always someone interested how its has performed and surprised at the quality of the running gear and the price. Although the Formula K18 leavers are a smart looking unit I found them hard set-up on the bars. Having large hands and only braking with one finger made it difficult to mount the shifters in the correct position, after using Hanes for year’s trouble free. Have spent a large amount of time on the saddle always returning with a grin thinking of the next day adventure. Perfect for all mountain type rider who was renowned for breaking everything.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mat
a Weekend Warrior
from midlands U.K. Date Reviewed: November 14, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Penmachno
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Purchased At:
RealCycles
Strengths:
No bob, incredibly agile, pushes your riding confidence way up. Pivot design looks a thing of beauty. Just sooo easy to get used to. Stock Fox shocks easy to set up, no need to fiddle with lockouts or propedal positions. Hayes 9's rock steady brakes (no squeeling!)
Weaknesses:
Paint job weak, cabling on underside of frame will catch all the crud. It's a ballache to clean! (too used to hardtails) Stock Maxxis tyres no good for a muddy winter.
Similar Products Used:
First Full susser. Previous setup GT Avalanche with Zocchi Bombers, sram, Hollowtech crank
Bike Setup:
Meta 5.3 with large frame. Replaced stem with 70mm, Hope xc hubs on Mavic rims, Conti Gravity/Vertical tyres
Bottom Line:
Cant really compare with other full susser bikes, but I totally heart this machine. Feels so light yet grips like nothing else, especially with the agressive Conti tyres. Climbs faster than my hardtail. Tape up all the rub spots soon as cos the paint wont last. I'm 6'2" & had to shorten the stem on the large frame. (sharper steering now anyway) Definately keep the sag on the shock to 20% This bike is a slick bit of kit for a light xc rider, plus it's a COMMENCAL
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob Hanley
a Downhiller
from Herts, England Date Reviewed: November 10, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Rheola
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Bikeactive.com
Strengths:
Suspension works very well, Light, looks great, corners well, very balanced.
Anyone who rides this bike will fall in love with it. It gives you so much confidence. The rear end hugs the ground and it corners very well. It decends very well for a 5incher. The bike has a very balanced feel to it. I have yet to see a bad Commencal product. I also have a Supreme DH which its equally as good as the Meta.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Henry Mah
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto Date Reviewed: October 26, 2006
Meta 5.20 stock, upgraded the following for same list price: carbon pro taper answer bars, Thompson stem, Kenda Nevegal 2.35, Xpedo Force flats
Bottom Line:
My LBS convinced me to give the Meta a try after looking at the above bikes. All I can say is that it is the perfect ride. Light, responsive, and great as an all around AM bike. It climbs very well with no detectable bob whatsoever. Say what you want about single pivots, but it works and is a piece of art to boot. Stays planted and rear end is stiff. With a lockout on the Fox 130RL, you can just about handle most situations. On the rocky and technical bits, the ride is plush with the right amount of feedback. On top of that, no one else seems to have one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Justin Leavitt
a Cross Country Rider
from Orem, UT, USA Date Reviewed: October 13, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
downshiftcycles.com
Strengths:
Amazing bike for the price. Actually, it's a great bike at any price. Very versatile bike. Very capable. Thoughtful design. Some components are actually nicer than you'd expect, such as the included seatpost and such. Nothing really seems overlooked.
Weaknesses:
not a huge fan of truvativ cranksets, but was able to swap it out.
Similar Products Used:
specialized stumpjumper, transition preston
Bike Setup:
you can check the specs for the 5.30 on commencal.com or downshiftcycles.com (where i bought mine)
Bottom Line:
Well, I can say that I love my Meta 5.30. One thing I like about this bike is that it came with some quality parts. I bought a stumpjumper fsr for the same price once upon a time, and specialized definitely doesn't ship out with the same quality. Even the less visible parts, such as the seat post, were nice (255g, not bad for a stock post). The Commencal hubs were good quality, and combined with the Sun rims to make a decently strong/light wheelset. Using some parts (from other XC bikes), I was able to get this 5" bike down to 26lbs, in a very economical (and safe) fashion.
It really is a versatile bike. It climbs very well for a 5" travel bike and does very well as an XC bike, but it is excellent on the down hill as well. This bike has a very fun agressive XC flavor. I like Commencal's thoughtful design. The routing is good, I dig the geometry, and the thing handles well.
Try Commencal. You will enjoy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig Dent
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: September 29, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Swiss Alps
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Real Cycles UK
Strengths:
fantastic suspension system. Lots of grip, confidence, and all-round ability.
Weaknesses:
a few crank-rock/root incidents, but the trade-off is a great geometry and confidence of a lower bb.
Similar Products Used:
Meta 4, SupremeFR, S enduro
Bike Setup:
Fox Vanillas, Hope hubs and brakes, Raceface Atlas, Thomson post&stem, Raceface and Hope finishing kit.
Bottom Line:
I've never riden such a confident and able frame. The Meta5 allows the rider to progress in all areas of our sport. It's light and agile and climbs with ease and grip on technical terrain- feeling like an xc specific bike. But then it's so sure footed and precise on the downs. It really handles so beautifully. Carving technical corners is a breeze. The bottom line is, at the end of every ride, I have a big smile on my face. I love my Meta!
VIP white is beautiful. It looks stunning, and the graphics are very well designed. Thankyou Commencal!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Scotland Date Reviewed: September 22, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Strengths:
Suspension, brakes, price.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Reign Santa Cruz Heckler
Bike Setup:
Meta 5.2 Stock.
Bottom Line:
Great bike. Does what you ask, when you ask. Allows less experianced riders like myself to push the boundaries a bit more. It climbs well, no suspension bob, desends even better, jumps, corners, goes or stops with no fuss. Brakes can be a little noisy at first (this does cure) but always very effective no matter the conditions.
I don't know how Commencal built a bike this good for this much money, anything else in this price range is killed by this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Curtis Christensen
a Racer
from Auburn, CA, USA Date Reviewed: August 22, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Pauly Creek, Downieville, CA
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The Meta 5. series offers the strength and stiffness of a true freeride bicycle with the geometry of all mtn/xc long travel rig. This bike is for the guy who loves to climb with the hard tails and boost every log, rut, jump, drop-off all the way down. Quick steering and I am still waiting for a negative reaction from the suspension! Predicatable and responsive. Size Specific tubing. This bike is the best modified single pivot I have ridden period! It does not whatsoever affect the ride angles and or pedaling.
Weaknesses:
I would choose more aggressive tires but you cant pick the parts for area you ride so just upgrade what is weak and your bike will respect your riding style!
Similar Products Used:
Intense 5.5, 6.6 Santa Cruz Blur LT Santa Cruz Nomad Specialized Enduro 04' and 06' Foes FXR Cannondale Prophet Trek Session 7 Kona Stinky Deluxe
Bike Setup:
Tune the shock sag 20% for xc/all mtn. Propedal is only necessary when the improper pressure is applied.
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is my shop experience with tuning and then abusing the finest rides for the most rugged terrain is that this bike is made for the aggressive all mountain rider. The rider who wants to get some where fast and mash through the most technical areas without having reset suspension or flip any switches to make this bike ride well. No pedal kickbackin', brake jackin' or wheelbase stretchin'/shrinkin' to affect its performance. Single pivot is and has been the #1 design in downhill racing and now comes full circle in xc/all mtn.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ollie shaw
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: August 19, 2006
Favorite Trail:
wales, southdowns, alps
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Strengths:
Stiff, reasonable weight, great suspension design - looks! Handbuilt in France - nicely finished and seems very robust.
Weaknesses:
none so far - paint doesnt look too durable but OK so far.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR Stumpy, Giant VT (demoed) Santa Cruz Nomad (on loan from friend)
Bike Setup:
I built this up from the frame only. RockShox Revalation U-turn fork, XT throughout, Mavic 717, Monkeylite, Bel air saddle.
Bottom Line:
After a few hundred miles I'm really impressed with this frame. Firstly, the suspension design is superb - I was a little apprehensive about single pivots after being used to my FSR Stumpy but like the VT I demo'd it rides superbly - not noticed any brake jack and the kick-back is very slight. I actually prefer the communicative feel over the 4-bars I've tried - they feel squishy by comparison. I'd agree with the other reviews about the pro-pedal, this bike doesnt really need it.
Geometry is spot-on - comfortable and very "flickable". Very confidence inspiring - the 68 head angle makes for stable descents but with the fork wound down to 100mm (69.5) I get a sharper handling climber. Recommend an adjustable fork with this frame!
I'm 5'10" but ride a medium size as the standover height is a little tight for riders with short inside leg. Apart from that I'd fully recommend this frame as part of a great trail bike. You could probably build this up as a light freeride rig too as the frame is very solid.
Pricing on the full bikes is actually very competative (hence 5 chillis for value) though I feel my custom option was worth the extra cash. Top marks for COMMENCAL !!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Graham Pye
a Cross Country Rider
from Cochrane, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: August 4, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Can't decide
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2700.00
Purchased At:
Bike Bros
Strengths:
Best 5" Travel Trail Bike. Good weight, great geometry, great climber, doesn't rely on Pedal-Platform shock to prevent bobbing.
Weaknesses:
Some of the parts on the stock complete.
Similar Products Used:
Tested most similar bikes from all majoy brands
Bike Setup:
Stock Meta 5.2 minus stock 2.1 Tires - Put Panaracer Cinder 2.25 tires on.
Bottom Line:
I had a Meta 5.3 in 2005. Then someone offered me a pile of cash for it in the fall so I sold it. In 2006 I tested other bikes but nothing else came close, so I got the Meta 5.2 - for me the magic is the combination of light weight, geometry, uninturrupted seat tube, components, hill climbing & descending and looks - It is like a piece of art.
My 2005 bike (Meta 5.3) came with a Rock Shox Ario rear shock - which made me realize the bike works because of the design, NOT because of a platform-style shock. The combination of this cheap rear shock with a bike that climbed and rode so well helped convince a few people (besides myself) that the suspension design is incredible.
My only complaints on the 2006 bike are: a)The Formula k18 brakes required SOOO much fuss for the first 10 rides or so it drove me nuts. I have finally worn the brakes in enough that the last 3 rides were trouble-free. b) The bike comes with light-weight 2.1 Maxxis High Roller tires - more suitable for a short-travel XC race bike than for the Meta 5. After putting 2.25 Panaracer Cinders on, I felt waaay more comfortable on DH/high speed cornering situations. c)The Fox RP3. This shock works incredibly well, I just felt as if it was blindly put on. This bike doesn't need any pro-pedal. I haved played with the different pro-pedal setting and they really don't do anything for this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JAMES
a Weekend Warrior
from G.B. Date Reviewed: June 27, 2006
Favorite Trail:
afan,whitescwmcarn,C.Y.B.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
£ 2500
Strengths:
BUILD QUALITY
Weaknesses:
Paintwork not as good as my Cannondale
Similar Products Used:
Whyte 46 and cannondale prophet 1000
Bike Setup:
mines the Meta 5.1, all top draw spec Thompson, race face,fizik,sram x0,fox float rlc up front rp3 at the rear
Bottom Line:
The contact system on the bike grips like a mountain goat on steriods.climbing and descending you wont get much better. The shimano xt wheels look more at home on some top end roadie bike,but rest assured their super strong. GO BUY ONE META 5.1
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jools
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: June 23, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Avantou.
Strengths:
core spec, ie frame & fork top class, saddle & brakes also exc, i have the 5.3 version
Weaknesses:
wheels & bars bit poor but i am used to much more expensive rides.
Similar Products Used:
I also own a prophet 2000, the commencal is my spare bike for my holiday home.
Bike Setup:
stock except chain swapped out after breaking 1st ride.
Bottom Line:
Er, differet class, the 5.3 version comes pretty well specced for the money, no platform on the shock but if u position yer weight properly bike will not bob. Great climber, great descender. I have the Prophet 2000 as my main ride & have to say that despite giveing a couple of punds away, and having a poor wheelset, the commencal is a superior all mountain ride!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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