Commencal started out their company in 2000. A year later, the company began to move their products to an online store. Nowadays, all Commencal bikes are sold to the market under the direct-to-customer business model. As a result, their bicycles seem to be less expensive than other competitors who sell their bikes at bike shops.
They stick out from various bike brands because they don’t manufacture XC bikes, with their bikes equipped with full suspension and the shortest rear travel of 130mm. Nevertheless, Commencal also produces some longer-travel bikes, such as Downhill, Enduro, Trail, and several free ride models.
Part of Best Bike Brands.
Overview of Commencal Bike Company
History of Commencal Bike Company
Max Commencal had to face two options in 1998, which were acquiring his own company that he had been kicked out of, or wiping out the charts and starting over again. After that, Max decided to add the first brushstrokes in Andorran investment’s form. This brought Max out of the south of France, then went to the principality hidden in the Pyrenees.
Celebrations are still going on in Andorra around 20 years later, with Max still leading the office. Their office is within sight of the World Cup track, and even though it is unlikely that you can find any of the nearly 60 employees in their office.
Commencal has really gained some great momentum in the last few years. And Max, the founder, quickly made the decision to sell all of their bikes online and finished partnerships with all their dealers in 2013. They then quickly expanded their business model into the US, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. Commencal has been actually successful going alone without any domestic distributors.
It is obvious that direct selling makes their bike prices lower. But it is really a great way that helps Commencal bikes to establish a strong foothold in the bicycle market right now.
Where are Commencal Bikes Made?
Since 2000, Commencal has been manufacturing bicycles in Andorra. The company’s headquarters is based in the US, and other outposts are located in different countries, including Australia, British Columbia, and New Zealand.
The Technologies of Commencal Enduro Bikes
Commencal offers different types of bikes, from downhill to trail, enduro, city, etc. But the most successful model would be the Enduro lineup. Bikes from this category are equipped with groundbreaking technologies. They are a perfect combo of Shimano, Fox, and DT Swiss components. The new FOX 38 Factory suspension fork, the new Float X2 shock, and the company’s 38mm uppers are considered the most excellent combination when it comes to the suspension of enduro bikes. According to Commencal, this combination makes their enduro bikes easier to win every EWS round.
In addition, this combo will actually provide the best range of hydraulic alterations, and absolutely satisfy the most demanding racers.
What’s more, you will get the most reliable performance and ease of maintenance from the famous Japanese brand with the 4-piston SHIMANO XT brakes and 12-speed SHIMANO XT transmission.
To complete the style, Commencal also has DT SWISS custom wheels that are typically designed for their own bicycles. You might already know that Commencal has one of the best enduro rims out there, the EX 511. The company also owns 350 reliable and sturdy hubs.
When it comes to exploring world-class bicycles, BH Bikes brand should be mentioned. BH Bikes have been creating bikes for more than 100 years with constant development in technology. With this knowledge, they have introduced a range of electric bikes. Get more insights about BH Bikes brand and their products on BH Bikes Complete Brand Overview at Hood MWR.
Performance of Commencal Enduro Bikes
As I mentioned above, the Enduro bike range is considered one of the best lineups of Commencal. And the Meta AM 29 is seen as an excellent model not only in Commencal’s enduro bike category but also compared with many other enduro models from other well-known brands.
The key reason for this is the incredible improvement in the bike’s performance. The company has made the most out of their EWS riders’ knowledge and experience and gone through lots of tests to create a new model that is even much more effective than ever.
The company has redesigned the kinematics to make sure the bike is not only more dynamic but also more comfortable even on long trails. This, as a result, significantly reduces fatigue in riders’ legs and is essentially optimal for cycling at the end of a long race.
What’s more, you can ride faster in a long period of time thanks to the great 160mm travel on the rear and 170mm on the front of the bike.
Commencal Bike Categories
Providing a wide variety of bike models and styles, Commencal bikes are very popular among cyclists of different ages and riding styles. From kids to adults, beginners to pros, there is a bike for you.
- Downhill Road Bikes
- Enduro Bikes
- Trail Bikes
- e-Bikes
- Kids Bikes
- Dirt Bikes
- City
Most Popular Commencal Bikes
Offer various types of bikes, but not all of their bicycles are loved and popular. This is completely normal for all other bike brands. At least, they offer an excellent model in each bike range. And now, let’s take a look at the most popular Commencal bikes
- Downhill Road Bikes: Commencal Furious
- Enduro Bikes: Commencal Meta AM 29
- Trail Bikes: Commencal Meta TR 29
- e-Bikes: Commencal Meta Power TR
- Kids Bikes: Commencal Clash Kids
Commencal Bike Price Range
Just like Trek and other famous bike brands, Commencal bikes are not stingy. Having said that, it doesn’t mean they are so expensive that you can’t afford one. Below is the price range of several popular Commencal bikes for your reference:
- Downhill Road Bikes: $3,199.00 – $5,999.00
- Enduro Bikes: $1,299.00 – $5,599.00
- Trail Bikes: $2,499.00 – $6,499.00
- e-Bikes: $2,999.00 – $7,999.00
- Kids Bikes: $2,199.00 – $3,099.00
Are Commencal Bikes Any Good?
The short answer is yes. Commencal chose to incorporate aluminum instead of carbon fiber to manufacture a bike that impresses on rough and steep trails. One of the greatest things about Commencal bikes is their versatility. In general, Commencal bikes are considered one of the best commendable bikes, no matter if it is ridden on single trails, bike parks, or various-day trips.
Commencal Vs. YT
Commencal Bike Review
Instead of carbon fiber, Commencal chose aluminum as their main material to produce frames. The company truly creates bikes that make a strong impression on ragged, extreme, and steep descents.
It could be said that the Enduro lineup is the most successful model of Commencal. You can really feel its excellent performance when riding it on high-speed tracks. If you are the kind of rider who is keen on an active riding style, Commencal Enduro bikes, typically the Meta AM model, will be your perfect companion on roads. This is because of the great integration of the ultra-short rear and long triangle at the front.
If you are a beginner rider looking for a reliable and stylish bike, Commencal is an excellent choice for you. Commencal bikes are known for their high-quality frames and affordable prices. Check out this list of the best bike brands if you want to explore even more options.
YT Bike Review
In this part, I also review the most popular model from the YT bike categories, the Enduro lineup. Just like any other bike brand, each bike range will contain one bike that is very common and preferred by a lot of riders. And the YT Industries Capra AL Comp 1 is such a bike.
The company pays more attention to gravity when designing and producing this model. It is constructed out of a high-quality aluminum frame, and all the components are also premium and tuned to make a perfect bike.
The greatest feature of YT enduro bikes should be the innovative suspension system. It allows you to change or adjust the way you want to ensure that you make the most out of the performance on different trails.
Conclusion
All in all, YT enduro bikes will be a great option for riders who are training for trail racing or anyone who is interested in races that have challenging descents or long climbs.
Commencal, on the other hand, comes at a fair price. Their bikes are also equipped with a great suspension system and allow you to conquer any high-speed track and steep trail with ease.
Commencal Downhill Bikes
The level at the Downhill World Cup keeps increasing. And Commencal race bikes are steadily developing, coming after the famous bicycles that make a hundred-second difference to the finish line.
There are two major models in the Downhill bike categories of Commencal, including Furious and Supreme DH.
The Furious is considered one of the best models in this range and also among other Commencal’s bike types. It is trusted by lots of famous riders around the world, including Andreu Lacondeguy, Remy Morton, Kyle Strait, Brendan Howey, and Conor McFarlane. They actually show you how this bike can do in everyday life.
The Supreme DH has different ranges, including 27, 29, and 27/29, for you to choose from. No matter what spec you select, you can benefit from it. And you might know that it is now the benchmark in the world of Downhill bikes.
Commencal Enduro Bikes
Enduro bikes, in general, are really a vast domain for riders. If your goal is to find a bike that gives a pure performance, great adventure, thrilling feeling, or just a bit of all those things, then Commencal enduro bikes will be your perfect choice!
There are three models in the Commencal Enduro bike range, including Meta AM 29, Crash, and Meta HT AM.
The Meta AM 29 bike has been entirely revised. It is equipped with new kinematics that provides riders with a more comfortable feeling and even more dynamic. The geometry is also completely rebuilt to offer better stability and pedaling capability. Typically, if you are the kind of rider who loves to ride faster on a longer trail while still seeking beautiful finishes and aesthetics, this new Meta AM 29 model is just for you.
The Clash model is also being changed. The company changes its geometry and kinematics to make sure their new model is up to trend. As a result, it will give you more dynamic and better pedal efficiency. Having said that, Commencal still retains great features of the old Clash to apply to the new one. Hence, you will feel the new one as a fun bike, which is typically found in its 27-inch wheels. This bike is typically great for jumps, freeride singletracks, and small downforce.
Commencal has officially launched their new model in the Enduro bike range, the Meta HT AM. This bike features a sturdy frame, allowing you to get more efficient pedaling power, increased weight while lowered maintenance. Depending on where you ride this bike, you can feel either comfortable or safe thanks to the 150/160mm suspension fork travel.
Commencal Trail Bikes
There is only one model in the Commencal Trail bike range, the Meta TR 29. This model has been around for years. However, it is always seen as the younger brother of the Meta AM model in its shadow.
The Meta TR 29 was rebuilt around 29-inch wheels two years ago and then finally was launched. And it suddenly started to become very successful. The proof is that it was selected to be “Trail Bike of The Year” by MBUK in 2019 and also ‘Best Trail Bike for less than $3,000.00” voted by reference media PINKBIKE in 2020.
And in 2021, the Meta TR 29 comes back stronger with a completely new, more modern and powerful platform. It is also used by lots of riders when they are looking for a trail bike. It is the more weight and excellent performance of this rigid model that makes it a perfect choice for anyone who is purchasing for a serious adventure.
Commencal E-Bikes
Commencal is quite famous for their electric bikes, with 5 models. Of which, there is one model for kids, and four Power ranges, including Meta Power 29, Meta Power 27, Meta Power TR, and Maxmax Power.
It is true that the Power category is getting stronger and stronger in 2021! Commencal equips a new appearance, new engine, and new frame for their Meta Power range. You can choose between 27-inch or 29-inch frames.
The 29-inch model is equipped with long travel so that you can ride on almost all tough, technical trails, no matter if it is downhills and uphills. The 27-inch bike even comes with more travel to deliver its pride of riding position, to beautiful terrains, and no more excuses on the roads involved.
The Maxmax Power is designed as a semi-rigid bike. It serves as the trump card of the commuter bike line, committed to being able to get off the track when given the opportunity.
And the Meta HT 24 Power is a great electric bike for kids. It is more than a small framed simple e-bike, it is packed with the finest components, and best adapted to their shape. It will be an ideal bike for your real family adventures.
Looking for an e-bike with a powerful motor and great performance? Check out our Quietkat Bikes brand overview to discover robust electric bikes built to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts and hunters. With high-quality components and excellent durability, these bikes are built to take on tough terrains.
Commencal Kids’ Bikes
The Commencal Kids’ bike range has the most models of all Commencal bike categories. Accordingly, their kids’ bike category has really become a priority. No matter what your child’s size, practice, and skill are, they can easily find a suitable model for your needs.
The company pays much attention to every component of their bikes for kids. The frames are also typically carefully designed by their skillful engineers to make sure they best fit children’s usage and shape.
There are four major options in the Commencal kids’ range. For three models of the four options (each comes with different wheel sizes to choose from), the biggest difference is the suspension. The fourth model is an electric power-assisted bike. It is really a revolution in this children’s bicycle market.
The Meta HT Kids’ bikes are equipped with a suspension fork. These models are designed by Commencal and manufactured by Manitou, and it actually reaches unprecedented levels of performance. The company has managed to decrease friction as much as possible so that even the smallest riders can make the most of the small shocks or travel.
When it comes to full-suspension kids’ bikes, the Clash range is actually the benchmark. It is much more than just a bike with a small frame. The kinematics are specially built for this frame. This design allows the suspensions to offer ultimate comfort and a firm grip no matter what obstacles you may encounter despite its super lightweight. Read our latest guide about perfect bikes for 3-6 years old kids.
Commencal Dirt Bikes
Many of you might know that Paul Couderc is the rising star in the dirt biking industry. He actually delivered the best performances of his young career riding the Commencal Absolut bike. Not only he, but you can also get great success with this model since engineers at Commencal have entirely rebuilt the setting of this legend. And it is really convincing, worth it. You might want to try it, and your experience will speak for itself.
Commencal City Bikes
Like the Dirt range, Commencal offers only one model in their City bike category, the Fast City Bikes (FCB). This bike comes in a really classy look. In terms of performance, it works great on different roads, from asphalt to gravel. The most important thing is that it delivers a great riding experience that you can feel at the expense of anything else.
Conclusion
It could be said that Commencal bikes, in general, are not cheap as compared with some other popular bicycle brands on the market. But you know, you pay for quality and experience. Every bike at Commencal is carefully designed and manufactured by devoted engineers. Commencal also offers various ranges of bikes, but the most popular ones should be the Downhill, Enduro, and E-bike categories.