Manitou Mattoc Pro – the review
Words/Images: S Jones
It can sometimes be challenging accessing the 160mm club when it’s guarded so menacingly by monsieur Fox 36 and RS Pike, two of the most well documented bouncers. It’s true they are powerful and they can fend off as well as take a few slaps in their stride. But they can still be hit and miss on some matters, and all bouncers have a bad day, all need a touch of love, a bit of lube from inside the house. The Fox demands a high entry price for its alleged exclusivity, and the latter’s dancing can often be a touch weak.
Front of house the Manitou Mattoc Pro has the physical presence of a well built fork, slightly more wiry than some 160mm forks with its 34mm stanchions, but at sub 2kg puts it very much head to head and in Fox 36 and Rockshox Pike territory. Reverse arch crowns sit low to keep the stiffness in check whilst wheel access is a breeze with the 6mm Hexlock axle that eliminates rotation around the axle and has now replaced the quick release lever on earlier versions. Tapered steerer, 180mm post-mount brake boss and evil genius seals complete the picture.
The Manitou Mattoc comes as part of a range from 140mm through to 170mm at ten mm increments and two offset availabilities in 41mm and 44mm and in red, black or white aftermarket colours. Internally we can talk about Dorado air, HBO and MC squared or in fact any of the the piston stuff within these legs until we’re blue in the face but ultimately, just like good wine, it all comes down to “do you like it or not?” So do we?
