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Gord's Ski & Bike
2 Locations to serve you better!
[L1]
2 Donald St
Winnipeg, Manitoba
CANADA | 204.284.2952
[L2]
1765 Kenaston Blvd
Winnipeg, Manitoba
CANADA | 204.269.2952
info@Gords.com
1.877.GORDS.61 |
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A commencal swingarm somewhere in Nevada : Photo JF Ravenelle
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 COMMENCAL BIKES
Attention bike connoisseurs! Gord's Ski and Bike is very proud to announce that we'll be offering Commençal Bikes starting in 2008!
First things first: The name... Commençal It's pronounced "com-men-sahl''
simple... kinda. That little squiggly, it's called a cédille... The cédille ¸ (cedilla) is found only on the letter C. It changes a hard C sound (like K) into a soft C sound (like S), e.g., garçon. The cedilla is never placed in front of E or I, because C always sounds like an S in front of these vowels. There, now that we have French 101 out of the way, back to bikes.
Commençal Bikes is an extremely unique bike company, formed by Max Commencal in 1999, they have worked in conjunction with Frederic Bernard and Olivier Bossard (Formula 1 suspension designers BOS Engineering) to create some of the most efficient bikes on the market with the help of 11 time Downhill World Champion Anne Caroline Chausson and 5 time Cross Country World Champion and Olympic Gold Medallist Miguel Martinez. This combination of a high performance cycling legend, engineering geniuses and elite athletic skill give Commençal a vision for top performance coupled with simplicity and affordability
 "Some say Max Commencal (pictured here to the left) has god-like status on the alpine mountain bike trails in France, and understandably so. A large percentage of people riding the steep and technical tracks around the Alps (including Commencal's utopic home turf of Andorra in the Pyrenees) have been doing so for years aboard bikes bearing the Commencal name written in that distinctly funky font. One of the early riders piloting Max Commencal's bikes was Cedric Gracia, who would eventually become one of the greatest downhill and freeriders of our time. At the time, however, both he and the Commencal brand were up and comers. Eventually Gracia was picked up by Cannondale, where he would quickly become a living legend on two wheels for his fearless riding and partying lifestyle. But much to many people's surprise, Gracia went back to his roots in 2006 and is once again riding for his old friend Max Commencal. "
 Commencal bikes originate from from the historically interesting and arguably funky principality of Andorra and as we pointed out above, just happen to be the ride of choice of the ubiquitous Cedric Gracia. Cedric (pictured to the right) is one of the most recognizable icons in free-ride mountain biking today and his involvement in the development of their bikes is reportedly substantial.
Our very young relationship all began when Cat, Vlad, Robbie and I were in Vegas, testing our allotted complement of bikes during Interbike's Demo Day in Bootleg Canyon. Day two of the test was simply overrun with testers, bike companies were struggling to keep up with demand for test bikes. During one lull in testing (while waiting for the Jamis Dakar XAM to become available) I glanced over to the Commencal booth only to notice someone about to return a Commencal Meta 5.5 in my size... And since Commencal bikes had always piqued my interest I decided to pounce on the bike. Later, when I rolled up to Catherine and Rob at our designated meeting spot outside the demo area, both of them looked at the bike puzzled, "Commencal? but that's not on our list..." I shrugged, made up some story involving the French and off we went onto our favorite loop or Bootleg Canyon.
 Once in a while we stumble upon a bike that rides so well that we MUST consider making room for it. The Commencal Meta 5.5 was one of those bikes. These bikes were so impressive, in fact, that both Robbie and I surprised each other by putting them on our respective TOP 5 bike lists.
The fact that we went through the trouble of making room for Commencal in our stores in itself should indicate just how impressed we were with this brand. We could have waited until '09 to bring them onboard but we couldn't pass the opportunity up to add this superlative bike brand to our outstanding line-up of sweet bike companies. Had to be done, so it was.
It's simple: Commencal bikes just ride well, easy to pedal, sweet climbers and great descenders, but what really struck us was how intuitive they rode, no theatrics, no fancy gimmicks, just super solid and that's saying quite a lot in squishy-bike world.
 Needless to say it doesn't happen every day that we decide to slot in a new bike brand here at Gord's so this is pretty big deal to us.
Commencal met all the Gord's benchmarks like quality, performance, value, distribution and commitment to the sport.
We just couldn't
take the chance that someone else in the Peg would snap them up so we had to pounce... and while we'll be starting out nice and easy with Commencal, we're expecting big things from Max's labor of love for Commencal bikes are not only one of the newest and hottest mountain bike companies around, they are also very much forward-thinking, quality obsessed and culture driven. An owner recently quipped about his Commencal: "pedals awesome, jumps like a dj machine, rails like a dream, kills it at DH and is pure fun! its also strong like no other, is beautiful to look at and is hand built by an awesome company" high praise indeed.
What sealed the deal for us was when we took a look at the price list. It's relatively easy to build a good $5000 bike. at that level a bike better ride like the wind. The magic lives in the ability for a manufacturer to serve up a bike  that rides like a dream and does not rival the price of a 10 year-old Honda Accord. We think these guys at Commencal are one of those rare bike companies: Not cheap by any stretch but still: Tangible, bang for the buck.
So in the category of "putting one's money where one's mouth is" I've decided to get one. The only conundrum left was which one Gladly, with the much appreciated help of the very nice and helpful Peter Appleton from Commencal Canada I finally narrowed it down to the unfortunately named "Supreme MiniDH" (pictured above).
And so, ladies and gentlemen, if you could be so kind as to strap your helmet on, the adventure begins. With another fantastic dollop of bikes from people who genuinely care about our experience. We have a good feeling about this one. It's going to be a tremendous summer of giggles and wide smiles punctuated with hearty laughter and one or two wicked crashes. With the right ride it's all possible. We're pretty damned sure that Commencal bikes might just one of those rides. Like the guy said: It's all about the ride.
COMBI S
Present in the COMMENCAL catalogue for a number of years now, the Combi accompanies all types of riders regardless of their destination. In our hardtail range, it’s the rugged adventurer of the group. It’s not for nothing that it carries the name of a mythical van, it’s the two-wheeled reincarnation ! The Combi name brings up escapism, and with that this new version is more lively, modern and comfortable, its limits being restricted only by those of its rider.
META 4.3
The Meta 4 is a bike that we class in the « Trail » category. What is the Trail category ? That will be where the main objective is about having fun! These bikes are not about winning a World Cross-Country or Downhill race, but about having unanimously acclaimed comfort. A great ride with great drive and incomparable grip, thanks to the « Contact System ». This is the bike to go out and have fun on, whether the trails are going up or down, and if they are large or steep… Probably the most « PEACE, LOVE & SINGLETRACKS » of Commencal's range.
META 55.3
The Meta 5.5 is almost certainly the most versatile bike in our ’08 range. Conceived for the most demanding of riders, this bike has numerous wins to its name, in both Enduro and Marathon Downhill events. Developed with the help of our rider Rémy ABSALON, double European Marathon Downhill champion, this MTB enables its rider to climb everywhere, and then fly down again at crazy speeds. This is thanks to the « Contact System » which brings both grip and that unforgettable feeling that there is more suspension travel present than its (and the vast majority of the other bikes in the category) 140mm would suggest. An excellent performer whether going up or down, the Meta 5.5 has just been cited by Mountain Bike Rider (a reference in the UK) as one of the past decades’ ten best bikes, all categories combined! Supreme recognition, indeed!
META 55.2
The Meta 5.5 is almost certainly the most versatile bike in our ’08 range. Conceived for the most demanding of riders, this bike has numerous wins to its name, in both Enduro and Marathon Downhill events. Developed with the help of our rider Rémy ABSALON, double European Marathon Downhill champion, this MTB enables its rider to climb everywhere, and then fly down again at crazy speeds. This is thanks to the « Contact System » which brings both grip and that unforgettable feeling that there is more suspension travel present than its (and the vast majority of the other bikes in the category) 140mm would suggest. An excellent performer whether going up or down, the Meta 5.5 has just been cited by Mountain Bike Rider (a reference in the UK) as one of the past decades’ ten best bikes, all categories combined! Supreme recognition, indeed!
META 666
Probably the bike that is most anticipated in this 2008 range ! The 666 is the Marathon Downhill bike par excellence. Rémy ABSALON and Greg NOCE (Master 30) took the Meta 666 out for its first set of races at the Vallnord Maxi Avalanche, here in Andorra, and won with both riders. Developed with the help of our Marathon Downhill riders, this bike combines enduro performance with the fun of downhill.
Read more about Commencal Bikes: 
MOUNTAIN BIKE OF THE YEAR
The Commencal 55.2 was lauded as the best sub $3400 full suspension bike of 2007! WMB called it a "nimble package that's just magic" and "fantastic". Drop on by, take one out for a spin, see what all the hype is all about. Great bikes with a commitment to quality of ride and product.
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GORD'S COMMENCAL LINE-UP
COMMENCAL COMBI S (pictured above)
Overview:
Present in the COMMENCAL catalogue for a number of years now, the Combi accompanies all types of riders regardless of their destination. In our hardtail range, it’s the rugged adventurer of the group. It’s not for nothing that it carries the name of a mythical van, it’s the two-wheeled reincarnation ! The Combi name brings up escapism, and with that this new version is more lively, modern and comfortable, its limits being restricted only by those of its rider.
New
The Combi S upgraded to a Meta 4 frame (’07 version) for 2008. This means that all that technology, reserved up until now for the high-end frames, is now available at a much more affordable price! PST (Perfect Size Tubing) and the « Contact System » will be the privilege of this Combi S !
Who is the Meta 4 for?
- For the guy or girl who wants as much bike as possible for the buck, for the rider who values ride quality over specs, for those who want something unique. A smooth-riding, highly efficient bike that one can grow with.
Combi S key features:
>2007 Meta 4 frame (100mm/4” of front and rear travel) : PST, Contact System w removable dropouts
>27-speed SRAM (9speed) Drivetrain
>A lock-out equipped Suntour fork with magnesium sliders (MAGNESIUM!)
>Shimano rear hub
>Avid Juicy 3 hydraulic disk brakes
COMMENCAL META 4.3 (pictured above)
Overview
The Meta 4 is a bike that we class in the « Trail » category. What is the Trail category ? That will be where the main objective is about having fun! These bikes are not about winning a World Cross-Country or Downhill race, but about having unanimously acclaimed comfort. A great ride with great drive and incomparable grip, thanks to the « Contact System ». This is the bike to go out and have fun on, whether the trails are going up or down, and if they are large or steep… Probably the most « PEACE, LOVE & SINGLETRACKS » of Commencal's range.
Who is the Meta 4 for?
- For the people who are out on riding trips every Sunday, the weekend warrior.
- For the people who might eventually decide to slip on a number plate a few times a year
- For all those mountain bike lovers who don’t think that performance is necessarily measured with a stopwatch, but more with the pleasure procured when a bike lets you climb past where others have had to put their foot down, to reach unreachable spots, and then to ride down with more ease than its 4” would suggest possible
How does the Meta 4 work?
The Meta 4 is built around a « closed » front triangle and a new rear boomerang-style swingarm, a gauge of reliability and rigidity. Both are linked by a single pivot, which is integrated into a forged section that encases the bottom bracket, thus guaranteeing a perfect alignment (and rigidity) of the components. An oversized axle rests on two stainless steel rings (inserted inside the forged section of the front triangle so as to avoid any risk of ovalizing the frame) and is mounted on 2 x 2 cartridge bearings.
Something to be aware of is the fact that there are no direct « threads » in the frame alloy so as not to cause any damage due to excessive tightening.
Each tube of the front triangle calls upon some pretty technical processes in their construction. The top and down tubes are hydro-formed, with the weld-less gusset being integrated in the down tube. The top tube now contributes to a more compact triangle (compared to the 2005 model) which increases the bikes overall stiffness and improves the riders ability to move around on the bike. For 2008, the front triangle will also incorporate the front mech support for greater precision when changing gears.
The rear hydro-formed boomerang swingarm is a technical marvel in itself. When teamed up with the new linkages, the combination has allowed us create a frame with great mechanical characteristics :
- The new swingarm is 150 grams lighter then the ‘07 model
- There is an 8% increase in rear stiffness
- An increased frame life expectancy multiplied by 5
Also important is that each Meta frame (as well as the Nuts 5) uses PST. PST signifies “Perfect Size Tubing”. This uses the principal of differentiated tubes according to bike size, after a simple observation : generally speaking, the bigger the rider, the heavier the rider. We can safely assume that the weight-based demands of a rider on the bike are more important on bigger frames. And even if the rider is not heavier, the front triangle is bigger, the tubes longer, and they undergo stronger forces. As a result, the Meta (and Nuts 5) front triangle has bigger tubes on the L or XL sizes, compared to the S and M sizes, important when you consider that it supports two-thirds of the riders’ weight (via the saddle). We therefore adapt the dynamic qualities to each frame size. As a comparison, an XL frame with the same tubes as a size small would be less rigid, and consequently less responsive. By using this system we also increase its reliability.
As an example, a size small or medium Meta has a seat tube diameter of 31.8mm and a tube thickness of 1.2mm. A large or extra large Meta has a diameter of 34.9mm and a tube thickness of 1.4mm. Therefore the seatpost is stiffer as well.
The rear swingarm has removable rear hangers, so you can choose between the two sets of hangers delivered with the bike and framesets: one 10mm set and one 12mm thru-axle set.
The connecting rod and rocker linkage assembly found on the Supreme are made of 7075 alloy, forged and then machined. They work to control the rate of progressivity of the suspension, their function & design having been done in association with BOS engineering. The linkages work alongside the single pivot design, which limits bobbing, kickback and optimizes the balance of the bike.
What Commencal has strived to find :
- lots of sensitivity on small bumps & impacts
- a suspension system that works throughout its entire range of travel
- big-impact absorption to avoid any bottoming-out
All articulated parts are mounted with sealed cartridge bearings, stainless steel bolts, and machined dust caps.
This single pivot and linkage assembly is what Commencal calls the « Contact System ».
Meta 4 plus key features:
- Lighter and more rigid rear boomerang swingarm
- Increased reliability
- Remarkable grip and increased liveliness thanks to the modified hydraulics of the Fox Float rear shocks
- No more chain suck (as there are no more chainstays)
- Improved front gear changes (front mech now mounted on the front triangle)
COMMENCAL META 55.3 (pictured above)
COMMENCAL META 55.2 (pictured above)
Overview
What is Meta 55 for?
The Meta 5.5 is almost certainly the most versatile bike in our ’08 range. Conceived for the most demanding of riders, this bike has numerous wins to its name, in both Enduro and Marathon Downhill events. Developed with the help of our rider Rémy ABSALON, double European Marathon Downhill champion, this MTB enables its rider to climb everywhere, and then fly down again at crazy speeds. This is thanks to the « Contact System » which brings both grip and that unforgettable feeling that there is more suspension travel present than its (and the vast majority of the other bikes in the category) 140mm would suggest. An excellent performer whether going up or down, the Meta 5.5 has just been cited by Mountain Bike Rider (a reference in the UK) as one of the past decades’ ten best bikes, all categories combined! Supreme recognition, indeed!
How does the Meta 55 work?
For 2008, the Meta 5.5 picks up the evolutions brought about by the Meta 666. Like its bigger sibling, it is built around a « closed » front triangle and a new rear boomerang-style swingarm, a gauge of reliability and rigidity. Both are linked by a single pivot, which is integrated into a forged section that encases the bottom bracket, thus guaranteeing a perfect alignment (and rigidity) of the components. An oversized
axle rests on two stainless steel rings (inserted inside the forged section of the front triangle so as to avoid any risk of ovalizing the frame) and is mounted on 2 x 2 cartridge bearings.
Something to be aware of is the fact that there are no direct « threads » in the frame alloy so as not to cause any damage due to excessive tightening. Each tube of the front triangle calls upon some pretty technical processes in their construction. The top and down tubes are hydro-formed, with the weld-less gusset being integrated in the down tube. The top tube now contributes to a more compact triangle (compared to the 2005 model) which increases the bikes overall stiffness and improves the riders ability to move around on the bike. For 2008, the front triangle will also incorporate the front mech support for greater precision when changing gears.
The rear hydro-formed boomerang swingarm is a technical marvel in itself. When teamed up with the new linkages, the combination has allowed us create a frame with great mechanical characteristics :
- The new swingarm is 150 grams lighter then the ‘07 model
- There is an 8% increase in rear stiffness
- An increased frame life expectancy multiplied by 5
Also important is that each Meta frame (as well as the Nuts 5) uses PST.
PST signifies « Perfect Size Tubing ».
This uses the principal of differentiated tubes according to bike size, after a simple observation : generally speaking, the bigger the rider, the heavier the rider. We can safely assume that the weight-based demands of a rider on the bike are more important on bigger frames. And even if the rider is not heavier, the front triangle is bigger, the tubes longer, and they undergo stronger forces. As a result, the Meta (and Nuts 5) front triangle has bigger tubes on the L or XL sizes, compared to the S and M sizes, important when you consider that it supports two-thirds of the riders’ weight (via the saddle).
We therefore adapt the dynamic qualities to each frame size. As a comparison, an XL frame with the same tubes as a size small would be less rigid, and consequently less responsive. By using this system we also increase its reliability. As an example, a size small or medium Meta has a seat tube diameter of 31.8mm and a tube thickness of 1.2mm. A large or extra large Meta has a diameter of 34.9mm and a tube thickness of 1.4mm. Therefore the seatpost is stiffer as well.
The rear swingarm has removable rear hangers, so you can choose between the two sets of hangers delivered with the bike and framesets: one 10mm set and one 12mm thru-axle set. The connecting rod and rocker linkage assembly found on the Supreme are made of 7075 alloy, forged and then machined. They work to control the rate of progressivity of the suspension, their function & design having been done in association with BOS engineering. The linkages work alongside the single pivot design, which limits bobbing, kickback and optimizes the balance of the bike.
Commencal has strived to find :
- Lots of sensitivity on small bumps & impacts
- A suspension system that works throughout its entire range of travel
- Big-impact absorption to avoid any bottoming-out
All articulated parts are mounted with sealed cartridge bearings, stainless steel bolts, and machined dust caps.
This single pivot and linkage assembly is what we call the « Contact System ».
Meta 55 Highlights:
- Lighter and more rigid rear boomerang swingarm
- Increased reliability
- Remarkable grip and increased liveliness thanks to the modified hydraulics of the Fox Float rear
shocks
- No more chain suck (as there are no more chainstays)
- Improved front gear changes (front mech now mounted on the front triangle)
COMMENCAL META 666 (pictured above)
Overview
Probably the bike that is most anticipated in this 2008 range ! The 666 is the Marathon Downhill bike par excellence. Rémy ABSALON and Greg NOCE (Master 30) took the Meta 666 out for its first set of races at the Vallnord Maxi Avalanche, here in Andorra, and won with both riders. Developed with the help of our Marathon Downhill riders, this bike combines enduro performance with the fun of downhill.
How does a Meta 666 work?
The Meta 666 is built around a « closed » front triangle and a new rear boomerang-style swingarm, a gauge of reliability and rigidity. Both are linked by a single pivot, which is integrated into a forged section that encases the bottom bracket, thus guaranteeing a perfect alignment (and rigidity) of the components. An oversized axle rests on two stainless steel rings (inserted inside the forged section of the front triangle so as to avoid any risk of ovalizing the frame) and is mounted on 2 x 2 cartridge bearings. Something to be aware of is the fact that there are no direct « threads » in the frame alloy so as not to cause any damage due to excessive tightening.
Each tube of the front triangle calls upon some pretty technical processes in their construction. The top and down tubes are hydro-formed, with the weld-less gusset being integrated in the down tube. For 2008, the front triangle will also incorporate the front mech support for greater precision when changing gears. On the Meta 666 (with the exception of the XL size) the head tube angle is adjustable. It takes only a minute to modify this angle by undoing two screws. The black sleeve allows you to change the angle by either +0.5° or – 0.5°, compared to the median position. The silver sleeve (delivered with the bike) allows a 0° setting.
The rear hydro-formed boomerang swingarm is a technical marvel in itself. It is extremely rigid, thanks to its design and the techniques used to manufacturer it. And the absence of chainstays banishes forever any thoughts of chain suck.
The rear swingarm has removable rear hangers, so you can choose between the two sets of hangers delivered with the bike and framesets : one 10mm set and one 12mm thru-axle set. The connecting rod and rocker linkage assembly found on the Supreme are made of 7075 alloy, forged and then machined. They work to control the rate of progressivity of the suspension, their function & design having been done in association with BOS engineering. The linkages work alongside the single pivot design, which limits bobbing, kickback and optimizes the balance of the bike.
We have strived to find :
- Lots of sensitivity on small bumps & impacts
- A suspension system that works throughout its entire range of travel
- Big-impact absorption to avoid any bottoming-out
All articulated parts are mounted with sealed cartridge bearings, stainless steel bolts, and machined dust caps.
This single pivot and linkage assembly is what we call the « Contact System ».
Meta 666 highlights:
- Lighter and more rigid rear boomerang swingarm
- Even more progressivity compared to a META 5.5
- Adjustable head angle
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JOIN US!
We've said it before: It's all about the ride. The ride to Seven Eleven, the ride to your buddies house, the ride we call Ingolf, the ride at Panorama, Fernie, The Seine River, the ride through the monkey trails at Assiniboine Park, the ride with your 30 favorite buddies or the ride with your daughter.
Yes the bike is important. But more important than the bike is the smile on your face. So get off your butt, dust off your bike, throw on your helmet and come riding with us next season! For more information on how we can help get you out, click on the following link: 
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