Like Shelby is to Ford, the M line of downhill race bikes is to Intense. Over the years, these iconic M models have helped distinguish the brand on the racing circuit, and helped establish a loyal fan base.
In recent years, the company’s focus has been on trail bikes, and carbon models, but after five years of waiting – the Intense faithful have been rewarded with a new M series model. The marquee bike is called the M16 and will be officially revealed at Sea Otter. Until then, drop past the break for pictures and geometry.
The M series models have an unparalleled racing pedigree, so it’s no surprise that Intense chose to go with 27.5″ wheels for this new bike. Like all of the company’s other aluminum models, the frame is constructed in the U S of A (you can check out our factory tour here).
Like the previous M9, the frame has adjustable travel. The new model is adjustable between 215mm – 240mm (8.5” – 9.5”) and will utilize 157mm rear hub spacing.
The press release we received states there are ” two levels of adjustable shock progression,” but we’ll have to wait a few days for the official unveiling to learn more about how that works (which we assume is probably done via a flip chip or different shock mounting).
