Adjustable Headtube Angle > Corsair frames are equipped with a headtube/headset system thatallows 3 degrees of headtube angle adjustment. The Maelstrom is shipped with a zero-degree headset that results in a headtube angle of 66 degrees when using a 565mm fork with 180mm of travel. For ridersthat love to fine tune their ride, our optional 1-degree headset allows the headtube angle to be increased to 67 degrees, or decreased to 65 degrees. The 1-degree headset is also extremely helpfulwhen using a fork that differs from the recommended axle-to-crown measurement.

Center Balance > The pivot point on the Maelstrom is in a mid-high position and is positioned behind the bottom bracket. By putting the pivot in line with or behind the bottom bracket, Center Balancehelps alleviate the heavy feel that can be associated with a forward pivot location. Corsair bikes have alighter, more maneuverable front end and ride-feel because of the center balance design.

Center of Gravity > Low center of gravity results in a more maneuverable bike. The Maelstrom’s single swingarm pivot is located mid-high on the seat tube and behind the centerline of the bottom bracket. The rear shock is mounted low and just in front of the seat tube allowing for an uninterrupted seat tube which allows for full seat height adjustment. These placements are key in achieving the Maelstrom’s low center of gravity.

Low Leverage Ratio > Many bikes utilize suspension systems that result in leverage ratios of approximately 3:1, whereas the Maelstrom has a leverage ratio of 2:1, (7” of rear wheel travel with 3.5” of shock stroke) This 2:1 ratio has a number of benefits: First, longer and lower stroke ratio shocks have a larger environment in which to do their work, resulting in less stress on the shock itself, which leads to more durable/longer lasting equipment. Second, longer stroke shocks offer a greater range of adjustability. Finally, lower spring rates result in more sensitive shock reaction.

Rear Suspension Design > The Maelstrom features a single pivot rear suspension design. Designed for serious pedaling, the Maelstrom includes a full length seat tube which allows for full saddle height adjustability. The bikes 10.5” x 3.5” (267x90mm) rear shock is actuated by an innovative rocker link that pivots around the bottom bracket shell. Finally, the Maelstrom’s mid-high rearward mounted swingarm means that the overall swingarm length is short – resulting in optimal lateral stiffness and a lightweight swingarm, both of which contribute to high quality suspension performance.

Axle Path > The Maelstrom’s axle path has been carefully considered in order to produce maximum suspension performance. Specifically, a high rearward pivot location is used to achieve a rearward axle path. The greater the rearward movement of the axle, the more efficient the design becomes at transferring energy to the rear shock rather than the frame. By combining this pivot placement with our idler pulley system, the Maelstrom’s axle path offers high quality suspension movement and energy management while providing for efficient pedaling.

Pedaling Efficiency > Pedaling efficiency is a challenge facing every long-travel bicycle design. The Maelstrom utilizes a swingarm-mounted idler pulley to neutralize chain-growth and reduce pedal feedback in all three chainrings. This pulley position that creates a very slight stiffening of the rear swingarm while pedaling – a functionality often referred to as “anti-squat”– which results in a more efficient and responsive pedal feel. The idler pulley system’s effect on chain growth is notable - 5mm of chainpull at 180m travel is a very low number, better than many short travel XC bikes (not to mention other Freeride and DH designs). The Maelstrom’s idler pulley system supports the use of a front derailleur and offers the ability to use one, two or three chainrings.

Serviceability > The Maelstrom’s rear swingarm is attached to the main frame using our washerless SureLock axle system which prevents the hard anodized 7075 aluminum axle from loosening. When it comes time for service, this simple system is among the easiest high-performance bikes to service and maintain.

Fit, Finish & Attention to Detail > As with all Corsair bikes, great time and effort have gone into ensuring that the smallest details are treated with the greatest degree of importance. The Maelstrom’s hardware is recessed into the frame, creating smooth, clean lines and durable mechanical connections. Our M8 shock mounting bolts use a proprietary design to ensure rattle-free rear shock performance. Corsair’s custom-designed, interchangeable dropouts (Maxle or Q.R. compatible options), make our frames more versatile, and our 12-step painting process (which includes a special extra-durable clear coat) creates a long lasting, high quality finish.