ABOUT :
MANITOU

Beginnings in a garage

In 1986, the Manitou story began in Manitou (Colorado - United States) - where most bike repairs take place: a garage. The goal was to produce the most technologically advanced products imaginable. Founder Doug Bradbury was a mountain bike icon and a member of the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame. He had a maverick spirit and was kind of a mad scientist who saw the need for suspension in the “new” sport of mountain biking. It was the driving force behind the very first suspension fork launched in 1989.

The science of smoothing

Yes, Manitou pioneered mountain bike suspension and became the first brand of its kind, but Manitou didn't stop there. Manitou has continued to pursue the “science of the smooth” with decades of research & development. National and global testing has earned Manitou a reputation for having some of the most reliable suspensions on the market.

The Hayes and Manitou Association

In 2006, Hayes Performance Systems acquired Manitou. It made perfect sense that a pioneering brake company with a passion for mountain biking and innovation would want to expand its offering by partnering with a pioneering mountain bike suspension company. It was and still is a win-win situation.

Today

Manitou offers a range of forks for all uses. For downhill and freeride, Manitou has designed the famous Dorado. For enduro, Manitou offers the brand new Mezzer. For its part, the Mattoc is one of the best all-mountain forks. The new R7 is intended for XC and XC Marathon use. In dirt jumping, the Circus is a benchmark. For trail running, Manitou offers the Machete. The Markhor is more intended for hiking.