Commencal Meta AM
86/100
BikeRide Score
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Facts
Summary of Reviews
We have read all expert and user reviews on the Commencal Meta AM. In summary, this is what cyclists think.
16 reasons to buy
- Geometry was well-suited to aggressive downhill riding.
- Fox Factory shocks reacted well to all hits and drops, big and small.
- Cable-routing was improved on 2019 models.
- In 2019, suspension kinematics are improved to reduce pedal kickback.
- Meta AMs come fitted with a downtube protector and miniature mudguard.
- The main triangle featured room for a bottle cage.
- Meta AMs climbed well and exhibited minimal squat.
- Expert reviewers lauded the Meta AM’s capabilities on descents.
- An extra-thick rubber chainstay protector eliminated unwanted chainslap.
- RockShox’ Super Deluxe Coil was described as ‘plush and quiet’.
- Component spec was seen as excellent quality and value for the given price.
- Up-front on the Team 29, Schwalbe Magic Mary tires tackled turns well.
- The RockShox Lyrik fork offered impressive performance and easy set-up.
- Pricing was described as highly competitive.
- Grey and burgundy-red presented well, on the 29 Essential.
- 50 and 51 tooth cogs on SRAM and Shimano cassettes were welcomed on climbs.
12 reasons not to buy
- One owner was saddened to receive a broken box and a scratched saddle.
- A minority of reviewers saw the Meta AM as a pricey choice.
- Rear Formula hubs on the 4.2 dragged and lagged on climbs and coasts.
- One expert found the Ride Alpha bar uncomfortable.
- Ride Alpha saddles were slippery and uncomfortable on longer rides.
- Testers reported some heel rub on the 4.2
- Weight was hefty, with a Team 29 weighing in at close to 35lbs.
- Seat stays were somewhat wide and could rub on calves or knees.
- Some reviewers saw LX Brakes as lacking power.
- On the 4.2, the bottom bracket was sometimes too low on rocky climbs.
- In the rear, Schwalbe Hans Dampf tires weren’t the most confidence inspiring.
- Pressfit bottom-brackets on the Signature Team aluminum frame were not easily serviceable.
Bottom line
Commencal chose to stick with aluminum over carbon fiber, to create a bike that unanimously impressed on ragged, rowdy and steep descents. Reports are; the Meta AM climbed well, with or without the included ‘climb mode’ engaged. Innovative features included an integrated mini mudguard to protect the rear linkage. Cable routing was updated to avoid interference with suspension operation. Smart components included RockShox’ Super Deluxe Coil, which features indicators to show how much sag you’re running. This was, overall, a commended bike. Weight was one of the biggest detractors of the Meta AM. But being trained on downhills, extra pounds were easily drowned in big fun.Expert Reviews
82/100 based on 4 expert reviewsCommencal Meta AM 29 Team Replica Review
Level 3 expert
Commencal Meta AM V4.2
Level 2 expert
Commencal Meta AM V4.2 Essential Review
Level 5 expert
Commencal Meta AM 29 Signature Orange Review
Level 3 expert
Commencal Meta AM 29 Signature Orange – Demo Review
Level 1 expert
They’ve really designed a bike that you can winch up the hill but just absolutely smash the descents on the way down. The value’s awesome with his bike.
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