First Impressions: Commencal Supreme
Originally posted on May 24, 2010 at 3:36 amThe Supreme is available in two sizes: S/M and M/L. The 67º headtube has a replaceable sleeve which can be swapped to a +/– 1º sleeve, steepening or slacking the headtube by 1º which really changes the personality of the bike. So far, I’ve ridden it both in the 66º and 68º settings and was amazed how much the personality of the bike changed. The slacker setting lengthens the front center and slows steering down considerably, making the bike feel planted at warp speed. In the 68º mode the Supreme feels ready for playful trail rides.
It never ceases to amaze me just how well coil suspended suspension works. Back in the day, I would specifically purchase coil spring forks for their ride quality. As air suspension improved, I’d gotten away from coil springs. But, the Fox 36 Van R and Van R both provide the buttery smooth travel we expect from coil-sprung suspension.
This bike simply begs to be flogged, hucked, and jumped.
Look for the full review of the Supreme in issue #151 of Dirt Rag. Subscribe by July 2nd to have issue #151 mailed to your door, or call 866.523.9653.
Supreme photos courtesy of Commencal USA.