Subtle tweaks characterise the fourth iteration of Cotic’s steel downcountry machine, the FlareMAX.
Taking the lessons learned from the Jeht development, the fourth generation FlareMAX gains some subtle improvements as well as a few more build options should you want something with a little more finesse.
Still sporting the 125mm rear travel it came with in the Gen 3 guise, the latest iteration of the FlareMAX gets more seatpost insertion meaning pretty much everyone can run a 150mm dropper. Metric shocks help futureproof the bike too. You’ll also get a slightly steeper seat tube angle too to help shift that weight forward on the climbs.
Spec-wise, a Rockshox damper is now an option on top of the usual Cane Creek inline unit. Probably the biggest difference will come with the downcountry spec options. A Rock Shox SID Ultimate 120mm fork (in iconic blue), HUNT XC Wide wheels and Wolfpack Trail/Cross 2.25″ tyres drops over a kilogramme and a half off the weight of the build.
The UK-made Launch Edition frames are available now and come in Sydney Blue and Gritstone Blue/Green Fade. Frames start at £2,099 with the Rockshox Select Plus shock, or £2,199 with the DB Air IL. Complete bikes start at £3,799 for the Silver build rising to £5,249 for the Gold.
Series Production Taiwan-made frames will arrive in August, available in Hubble Purple and Matte Slate Grey. All the same build options and frames options are available, but £300 less. Frames start at £1,799, and bikes start at £3,499. Later in the summer, the Silver build bike option price drops to start at £3,149 with a Revelation 130mm fork.
