Arthur Quet is our performance manager: he's the one who develops our bikes, working directly with our World Cup teams.

The SUPREME DH V5.2 is the result of that work. He's the best placed person to answer your questions.

CHECK OUT THE SUPREME DH V5.2

CHANGES & DIFFERENCES 

What is new on this version compared to V5? 

The main developments are: 

• the kinematics, with an evolution of the virtual pivot point that influences the bike's dynamics and balance

• the rear brake interface, to increase bite and reduce vibrations

• rear triangle stiffness, to gain precision

• the drivetrain, with UDH compatibility; the Contact System bearings and bearing covers

• guided cable routing with entry through the head tube

• rear triangle frame protections

• easier access to shock adjustments

What do these developments actually bring to the rider? 

The bike mainly gives the feeling of a very complete and very healthy behaviour. 

It remains comfortable, predictable and reassuring, while offering more dynamism and responsiveness than the previous version. 

GEOMETRY & KINEMATICS 

Is there any change in the geometry of the bike? 

No, the static geometry has not changed. It was fully satisfactory because of the balance it gives the bike.

However, the dynamic geometry changes slightly thanks to the kinematic updates and the virtual pivot point. The bike remains more neutral, more balanced and more predictable. 

What is the difference in kinematics between the V5 and the V5.2? 

The difference may look small visually but it has an important effect on the overall behaviour. 

A change in the rear triangle pivot point changes the path of the virtual pivot point. This changes the complete dynamic balance of the bike especially in terms of support, comfort, grip and responsiveness. 

REAR TRIANGLE & CHASSIS 

What has changed on the rear stays? 

The rear stays must be considered as part of the complete system. 

They contribute to the positioning of the virtual pivot point and to the bike's dynamic balance. They are slightly stiffer and benefit from new frame protection which helps make the bike quieter. The brake mount interface is also significantly different, in order to increase bite and reduce unwanted deformation and vibration. 

Did you change anything on the front triangle? 

Yes. The front triangle now receives guided internal cable routing, with entry through the front of the head tube. 

The shock mount area has also been modified to provide more clearance and make the adjustment dials easier to access. 

Will there be a rear triangle upgrade kit for the V5? 

No, this is not planned at the moment. 

Why did you decide to remove the chain stay length adjustment that was on the V5? 

Between the integration of the UDH standard and the repositioning of the brake caliper, packaging and assembly constraints increased. The choice was therefore made to prioritize stiffness and the quality of the interfaces between parts in order to reduce all unwanted vibrations and deformations. 

The rear triangle length remains optimised according to frame size. 

SUSPENSION & SHOCK 

How much has the system's sensitivity improved? What other sensations on the bike have changed? 

The gain in sensitivity is noticeable. 

The work on the virtual pivot point, the reduction of unwanted chain effects and the new bearings further improve the bike's absorption capabilities. 

The main benefit is that we were able to increase support and dynamism without degrading grip or comfort. The bike gains response, becomes more aggressive and more engaging, while maintaining the confidence that allows the rider to push their limits. 

Which type of shock works best on this bike with this system: coil or air? 

There is no right answer. 

The bike's kinematics already provide a large part of the behaviour through the force balance created by the virtual pivot point. 

A coil shock will generally give a more neutral and constant bike. 

An air shock will give a livelier and more adjustable bike but will require more precise setup work. 

The best choice depends on the rider, the terrain and preferred riding behaviour. 

Where can I find Öhlins settings? The website only lists Fox and RockShox.

At the moment, there is no complete COMMENCAL bike sold with Öhlins suspension for this model. 

Recommended settings must take the internal suspension settings into account in order to remain coherent and useful. If the suspension does not come from COMMENCAL, the brand cannot guarantee the internal settings. It is therefore not possible to provide a reliable and universal recommendation for a custom Öhlins build. 

DRIVETRAIN & CHAIN 

What are the benefits of the second pulley/idler up front? 

The idler makes it possible to decouple chain effects from suspension movement. 

When the suspension works, the rear wheel moves backwards to better absorb high-speed impacts. Without an idler, this movement could generate chain tension that would disturb the suspension and create unwanted movements in the cranks, and therefore in the rider's feet. 

A system we brought back with the SUPREME DH V4 and have further improved with the V5.2.

Does the O-Chain really improve the bike's behaviour? 

Yes, but its effect should be put into context. 

On the SUPREME DH V5.2, the chain idler already decouples a large part of the chain effects on the suspension. The O-Chain therefore has less impact than on some other bikes. 

It nevertheless brings additional filtering of unwanted chain movements and gives the rider a small amount of angular freedom that helps maintain a good position of the rider's centre of gravity. 

BRAKING

What improved braking? 

Several elements contribute to the braking improvement: 

• a more digressive anti-rise, to keep the bike higher under braking: more usable travel, less grip variation at the front wheel

• the angular positioning of the brake, which provides more bite

• a more efficient braking response thanks to better stiffness around the brake system

• reduced unwanted vibration and noise

The result is more stable, more precise and more predictable braking. 

MATERIALS & DESIGN CHOICES 

Why isn't it carbon? 

COMMENCAL is a 100% aluminium brand. 

This choice is based on technical and ethical convictions, but also on strong expertise in aluminium and its manufacturing processes. This expertise makes it possible to achieve a highly refined chassis behaviour. 

Aluminium also allows faster and more varied iterations during development and throughout the life of a platform, including of course, support for race teams. 

Aluminium is also a recyclable material which fits into a more responsible approach to the product's life cycle. 

Why is an aluminium DH bike better than carbon? 

Aluminium offers important advantages for this type of bike.

It provides strong resistance in real-world use, including impacts and stone strikes, enables fast development iterations and, above all, allows fine control of chassis behaviour. On a DH bike, the frame must be precise, but also capable of filtering impacts and vibrations from the terrain. 

The objective is not only to achieve stiffness, but to find the right balance between precision, grip, comfort, progressiveness and predictability. 


DURABILITY, RELIABILITY & WARRANTY 

How did you improve V5.2 reliability? 

The SUPREME DH V5 was already considered a very reliable bike. 

On the V5.2, the work focused on bearing sealing, manufacturing processes, protection durability, cable routing and reducing maintenance needs in certain sensitive areas. 

How do you test a DH frame? 

Development goes through several levels of testing: 

• numerical simulations during the design phase

• machine testing according to ISO standards and independent laboratory tests, notably at EFBE; these tests subject the frames to hundreds of thousands of fatigue cycles, simulating years of riding, as well as isolated extreme impacts

• field testing with data acquisition for behaviour, performance and durability, carried out by professional riders, test riders and development riders

• long-term use of prototypes and samples before commercialization

The objective is to validate reliability, aging, strength and real behaviour on track. 

How durable is the frame? Could I race it for several seasons without problems? 

The frame offers excellent durability. 

It achieves very good results in ISO fatigue tests as well as in tests carried out by the independent EFBE laboratory. 

To ride for several seasons you simply need to perform the necessary maintenance: bearings, greasing, tightening to the recommended torque values and regular checks of wear parts.

Is the frame guaranteed for life? 

Yes. COMMENCAL frames are designed to last and benefit from a lifetime warranty under the conditions defined by the brand. 

Please refer to our GENERAL WARRANTY CONDITIONS. 

What happens if I crack my frame? 

If a frame is subjected to an excessive impact or a violent crash, it can break. 

If the crack falls under the COMMENCAL Care warranty it will be covered for life according to the warranty conditions. 

If the crack comes from an accident, an impact or abusive use, a preferential crash replacement price may be offered. 

TEAM & RACING

Do team riders have special frames? 

Not in the sense of a frame different from the production model: the base frame is the same for team riders as for World Cup bikes. 

The adaptations mainly concern parts, settings and specific linkage configurations according to riders' needs and the tracks: linkages, suspension settings, stiffness parts or rider-specific configurations. 

Is the quality control of race bikes different? 

No. Race bikes and production bikes follow the same production and quality control processes. 

USE & RIDING STYLE 

Is it playful in freeride? 

No, that’s not its main purpose, even if the bike's dynamism makes it very agile and easy to handle. 

The SUPREME DH V5.2 is designed to be stable, fast and predictable in downhill riding. 

For a more playful freeride use, the FRS and CLASH models are much more suitable. 

COMMENCAL warranty and assistance

What warranty applies to the frame, motor and battery?


The frame benefits from a lifetime warranty for manufacturing defects for the first owner. With specific conditions and exclusions (worn parts, bearings, etc.). The motor/battery and components follow the specific conditions of each supplier. Please refer to the after-sales conditions defined by COMMENCAL, AVINOX and the other component manufacturers.

What should I do in case of electronic or mechanical issues?


Follow the official COMMENCAL CARE procedure. Submit a warranty/assistance request via the form with invoice and photos to speed up diagnosis.

Where should I service my META POWER SX AVINOX?


At a workshop qualified for e-bikes and, for anything related to the AVINOX system, through channels recommended by COMMENCAL (support/workshop) to remain compliant.

Are spare parts available long term?


COMMENCAL ensures follow-up of frame parts (bearings, small hardware, etc.). 

COMMENCAL warranty and assistance

What warranty applies to the frame, motor and battery?


The frame benefits from a lifetime warranty for manufacturing defects for the first owner. With specific conditions and exclusions (worn parts, bearings, etc.). The motor/battery and components follow the specific conditions of each supplier. Please refer to the after-sales conditions defined by COMMENCAL, AVINOX and the other component manufacturers.

What should I do in case of electronic or mechanical issues?


Follow the official COMMENCAL CARE procedure. Submit a warranty/assistance request via the form with invoice and photos to speed up diagnosis.

Where should I service my META POWER SX AVINOX?


At a workshop qualified for e-bikes and, for anything related to the AVINOX system, through channels recommended by COMMENCAL (support/workshop) to remain compliant.

Are spare parts available long term?


COMMENCAL ensures follow-up of frame parts (bearings, small hardware, etc.). 

COMMENCAL warranty and assistance

What warranty applies to the frame, motor and battery?


The frame benefits from a lifetime warranty for manufacturing defects for the first owner. With specific conditions and exclusions (worn parts, bearings, etc.). The motor/battery and components follow the specific conditions of each supplier. Please refer to the after-sales conditions defined by COMMENCAL, AVINOX and the other component manufacturers.

What should I do in case of electronic or mechanical issues?


Follow the official COMMENCAL CARE procedure. Submit a warranty/assistance request via the form with invoice and photos to speed up diagnosis.

Where should I service my META POWER SX AVINOX?


At a workshop qualified for e-bikes and, for anything related to the AVINOX system, through channels recommended by COMMENCAL (support/workshop) to remain compliant.

Are spare parts available long term?


COMMENCAL ensures follow-up of frame parts (bearings, small hardware, etc.). 

COMMENCAL warranty and assistance

What warranty applies to the frame, motor and battery?


The frame benefits from a lifetime warranty for manufacturing defects for the first owner. With specific conditions and exclusions (worn parts, bearings, etc.). The motor/battery and components follow the specific conditions of each supplier. Please refer to the after-sales conditions defined by COMMENCAL, AVINOX and the other component manufacturers.

What should I do in case of electronic or mechanical issues?


Follow the official COMMENCAL CARE procedure. Submit a warranty/assistance request via the form with invoice and photos to speed up diagnosis.

Where should I service my META POWER SX AVINOX?


At a workshop qualified for e-bikes and, for anything related to the AVINOX system, through channels recommended by COMMENCAL (support/workshop) to remain compliant.

Are spare parts available long term?


COMMENCAL ensures follow-up of frame parts (bearings, small hardware, etc.). 

COMMENCAL warranty and assistance

What warranty applies to the frame, motor and battery?


The frame benefits from a lifetime warranty for manufacturing defects for the first owner. With specific conditions and exclusions (worn parts, bearings, etc.). The motor/battery and components follow the specific conditions of each supplier. Please refer to the after-sales conditions defined by COMMENCAL, AVINOX and the other component manufacturers.

What should I do in case of electronic or mechanical issues?


Follow the official COMMENCAL CARE procedure. Submit a warranty/assistance request via the form with invoice and photos to speed up diagnosis.

Where should I service my META POWER SX AVINOX?


At a workshop qualified for e-bikes and, for anything related to the AVINOX system, through channels recommended by COMMENCAL (support/workshop) to remain compliant.

Are spare parts available long term?


COMMENCAL ensures follow-up of frame parts (bearings, small hardware, etc.). 

COMMENCAL warranty and assistance

What warranty applies to the frame, motor and battery?


The frame benefits from a lifetime warranty for manufacturing defects for the first owner. With specific conditions and exclusions (worn parts, bearings, etc.). The motor/battery and components follow the specific conditions of each supplier. Please refer to the after-sales conditions defined by COMMENCAL, AVINOX and the other component manufacturers.

What should I do in case of electronic or mechanical issues?


Follow the official COMMENCAL CARE procedure. Submit a warranty/assistance request via the form with invoice and photos to speed up diagnosis.

Where should I service my META POWER SX AVINOX?


At a workshop qualified for e-bikes and, for anything related to the AVINOX system, through channels recommended by COMMENCAL (support/workshop) to remain compliant.

Are spare parts available long term?


COMMENCAL ensures follow-up of frame parts (bearings, small hardware, etc.). 

COMMENCAL warranty and assistance

What warranty applies to the frame, motor and battery?


The frame benefits from a lifetime warranty for manufacturing defects for the first owner. With specific conditions and exclusions (worn parts, bearings, etc.). The motor/battery and components follow the specific conditions of each supplier. Please refer to the after-sales conditions defined by COMMENCAL, AVINOX and the other component manufacturers.

What should I do in case of electronic or mechanical issues?


Follow the official COMMENCAL CARE procedure. Submit a warranty/assistance request via the form with invoice and photos to speed up diagnosis.

Where should I service my META POWER SX AVINOX?


At a workshop qualified for e-bikes and, for anything related to the AVINOX system, through channels recommended by COMMENCAL (support/workshop) to remain compliant.

Are spare parts available long term?


COMMENCAL ensures follow-up of frame parts (bearings, small hardware, etc.). 

Behaviour and handling

How does the META POWER SX AVINOX perform on fast descents?


With 160mm of travel and VCS kinematics, it is designed to hold speed, maintain grip and absorb heavy impacts.

Is it effective on technical and steep climbs?


Yes. The motorization, torque (up to 120 Nm) and geometry are designed to climb without fighting a front wheel that wants to lift.

What is the maximum assisted speed according to regulations?


In Europe, assistance is limited to 25 km/h for compliant e-MTBs (beyond that, you pedal without assistance). Regulations may vary outside the EU (32 km/h in the USA, for example).

Does the bike remain quiet on descents and rough terrain?


We emphasize protection parts and finishes aimed towards zero noise when you release the brakes. In addition, the motor has no noise related to its freewheel.

Features and use

Who is the META POWER SX AVINOX designed for?


For riders who want to link up big days out without choosing between climbing fast and descending hard. The META POWER SX AVINOX is built for long rides with powerful motor support and high torque.

How does the META POWER SX AVINOX stand out from other META POWER models in the COMMENCAL range?


With the integration of the AVINOX system and up to 120 Nm and 1000 W max, progressive power delivery and silent operation on descents, all combined with a bike that remains agile and dynamic. It also benefits from the full AVINOX ecosystem: touchscreen display, ergonomic and easy-to-use app.

Is it more bike park, downhill, aggressive enduro, or versatile?


Aggressive enduro and versatile: it has the travel and VCS kinematics to handle heavy impacts, while maintaining dynamism and versatility for long rides.

Size and geometry

How do I choose the right META POWER SX AVINOX size?


Refer to the COMMENCAL size guide and choose according to your body type and riding style. Longer = more stable. Shorter = more playful. If you are between two sizes, think first about the terrain you ride most often.

What kind of ride feel does the geometry provide?


A balance between stability and manoeuvrability: stable enough to go fast downhill, lively enough to stay precise on winding trails. The bike inspires confidence in all situations. Its geometry helps you feel 'at home' from the first pedal strokes.

Is the bike compatible with a mullet or full 29" setup?


As standard, it comes in a 29" front and 27.5" rear configuration (mullet), designed to combine stability, grip and agility.

It is not compatible with full 29”.

COMMENCAL warranty and assistance

What warranty applies to the frame, motor and battery?


The frame benefits from a lifetime warranty for manufacturing defects for the first owner. With specific conditions and exclusions (worn parts, bearings, etc.). The motor/battery and components follow the specific conditions of each supplier. Please refer to the after-sales conditions defined by COMMENCAL, AVINOX and the other component manufacturers.

What should I do in case of electronic or mechanical issues?


Follow the official COMMENCAL CARE procedure. Submit a warranty/assistance request via the form with invoice and photos to speed up diagnosis.

Where should I service my META POWER SX AVINOX?


At a workshop qualified for e-bikes and, for anything related to the AVINOX system, through channels recommended by COMMENCAL (support/workshop) to remain compliant.

Are spare parts available long term?


COMMENCAL ensures follow-up of frame parts (bearings, small hardware, etc.). 

COMMENCAL warranty and assistance

What warranty applies to the frame, motor and battery?


The frame benefits from a lifetime warranty for manufacturing defects for the first owner. With specific conditions and exclusions (worn parts, bearings, etc.). The motor/battery and components follow the specific conditions of each supplier. Please refer to the after-sales conditions defined by COMMENCAL, AVINOX and the other component manufacturers.

What should I do in case of electronic or mechanical issues?


Follow the official COMMENCAL CARE procedure. Submit a warranty/assistance request via the form with invoice and photos to speed up diagnosis.

Where should I service my META POWER SX AVINOX?


At a workshop qualified for e-bikes and, for anything related to the AVINOX system, through channels recommended by COMMENCAL (support/workshop) to remain compliant.

Are spare parts available long term?


COMMENCAL ensures follow-up of frame parts (bearings, small hardware, etc.). 

COMMENCAL warranty and assistance

What warranty applies to the frame, motor and battery?


The frame benefits from a lifetime warranty for manufacturing defects for the first owner. With specific conditions and exclusions (worn parts, bearings, etc.). The motor/battery and components follow the specific conditions of each supplier. Please refer to the after-sales conditions defined by COMMENCAL, AVINOX and the other component manufacturers.

What should I do in case of electronic or mechanical issues?


Follow the official COMMENCAL CARE procedure. Submit a warranty/assistance request via the form with invoice and photos to speed up diagnosis.

Where should I service my META POWER SX AVINOX?


At a workshop qualified for e-bikes and, for anything related to the AVINOX system, through channels recommended by COMMENCAL (support/workshop) to remain compliant.

Are spare parts available long term?


COMMENCAL ensures follow-up of frame parts (bearings, small hardware, etc.).