Corsair: International Newsletter

While we had a frame to show at EuroBike, Interbike marked the real coming out of the Maelstrom. Fully built up, riders finally had the chance to see what a balanced ride this model will be. We call it a freeride bike, but we're sure it will be equally adept as a 'park bike' or for the rider who does a few DH races per year.

What's so notable is that we have created a long travel bike (7"/180mm) that pedals really efficiently, yet can descend with the best bikes out there. The Maelstrom's climbing is a result of the bikes floating idler pulley which reduces chain pull to a meager five millimeters in either chainring. As a descender, with its mid-high rearward mounted pivot, the axle path of the Maelstrom is rearward moving throughout the entire axle-path. This is very unique and contributes to the bikes ability to control energy input from the riding environment.

Finally, it seems everybody is excited about the Maelstrom's low 2:1 stroke ratio which is a result of the bikes 7 inches of travel while combined with the shock's 3.5 inches of stroke. It is interesting to note that most riders will likely use a 250 to 300 pound spring. It's just what we are after, a very light and adjustable spring.

Maelstrom frames are expected to be available for shipment during the month of February.

We gave the world a sneak peak of Corsair Bikes at Colorado and Whistler Crankworx, but EuroBike and Interbike marked the major debut for our company. The interest in the bikes at both shows was quite high - not only did we sew up some of our biggest distributorships, but we also had a ton of shop guys from all over the world come by to kick the tires. For web coverage, you can check out Pink Bike, Sicklines, BikeMagic, NSMB and MatchVideozine. Decline just ran a print article, and we expect to see more features soon - when we do we will let you know.

Our only regret from the shows is the fact we were unable to attend the Outdoor Demo events. We know many of you are dying to ride the bikes and we can't wait to have you try them out. As soon as it is possible, we will let you know. For now, we can't seem to get the prototypes out of the hands of our founders - Pablo, Jordan, Carla and Doug are all scrambling to get their ride time in, and at the moment, the bikes are somewhere in Colorado...