Intense Cycles USA announces its M9-FRO Downhill race bike

by Tyler Maine
Aug 1, 2010 at 22:22

Source: Intense Cycles

INTENSE is proud to announce the introduction of our flagship world cup downhill racing bike, the M9-FRO (ForRaceOnly). For the last 2 years, the M9-FRO has been in development by our engineering/design team our world cup racers: Chris Kovarik, Matti Lehikoinen, Matt Simmonds, Ruaridh Cunningham , Claire Buchar and World Champion Emmeline Ragot. Our M9-FRO backed race team is currently the #1 ranked DH team in the world. Starting with the M1 in 1994, we have built the most sought after downhill bikes in the world. The latest in the M-series lineage redefines state of the art in no uncertain terms. More details and pics inside,


• Adjustable travel 8.5"/9"/9.5" (make adjustments on our new ‘travel adjustment module’ located on the new lower link)


• Adjustable geometry

• Adjustable progression/shock curve

• Refined geometry from past M-series bikes



• New G3 replaceable/adjustable/fully enclosed dropout (not pictured)

• 150mmx12mm rear axle only

• Full 1.5" headtube with upper pinch bolt system


• Adjustable head angle via canecreek angleset (includes .5°, 1.0° and 1.5°). Simple adjustment with our new pinch bolt head tube

• 83mm BB shell

• ISCG 05 integrated into BB shell

• New flushset grease fittings at main pivots

• 9.5"x3" FOX RC4 shock damper spec


• Completely redesigned upper and lower linkages



• Completely redesigned tubing spec and frame architecture


• 2 year project of engineering and race development

• World Cup, National and World Championship winning VPP suspension platform

* Handmade at our southern California factory



MSRP will be $2999 (USD) including the angleset upgrade and FOX RC4
Expected delivery date is October 2010
Parts Spec and Colors shown are subject to change
Painted links will not be standard-these are team bikes.



About INTENSE Cycles:

INTENSE Cycles is a Temecula, Ca. based designer and manufacturer of high end, american made full suspension mountain bikes. INTENSE makes mountain bikes for World Cup Downhill racing, Enduro/Trail riding, Cross Country and Dirt Jumping. At a time when the vast majority of bicycles are being made overseas, Intense has invested heavily in our equipment and technology to remain the leader in american made race bikes. Our full lineup includes: M9-FRO, 951, Slopestyle2, Uzzi, Tracer, Tracer 29, Spider2, TazerVP, TazerHT.
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212 Comments

  • + 58
flag thegringo (Aug 1, 2010 at 22:34)
 PERFECTION AND NO JOKE.
Gringo.DroolDroolDrool
  • + 11
flag goonrider (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:27)
 beautiful looking machine!
  • - 61
flag AdmanMTB (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:43) (Below Threshold) show comment
 Can I ask what the difference is between this and a banshee legend? Honestly cannot decide which one...
  • + 3
flag AdmanMTB (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:43)
 Oh, and anybody know where I can find geometry?
  • + 11
flag killacali (Aug 2, 2010 at 1:13)
 I want one
  • + 16
flag bikebuster (Aug 2, 2010 at 1:23)
 ill take that bike off your hands at no cost to you!
  • + 17
flag SaucyCrackers (Aug 2, 2010 at 3:35)
 First thing I thought when I read the title... AFROOOOO

*braces for neg thumbs*
  • + 8
flag JubaBabaci (Aug 2, 2010 at 5:33)
 Theres things we all need and want. I Need this.
  • + 1
flag cyberhawk Plus (Aug 2, 2010 at 6:30)
 frame weight.. ?
  • + 5
flag norcosavage (Aug 2, 2010 at 7:00)
 o no! i need to sell my m6 now! lol
  • + 5
flag trohan (Aug 2, 2010 at 7:31)
 now that's INTENSE!
  • + 4
flag chrisbee (Aug 2, 2010 at 7:48)
 ADMAN: you are an idiot. no comment.
  • + 8
flag NWray (Aug 2, 2010 at 8:46)
 i want one Blank Stare first time ive actualy wanted a bike from the "M" series of intense dh race bikesBlank Stare


on another note, just sayin... but that welder is boss lol
  • + 1
flag history (Aug 2, 2010 at 8:50)
 NWray you read my mind
this m9 is actually thee nicest m series model
  • + 1
flag NWray (Aug 2, 2010 at 8:53)
 yep, the m6 just looked... .EHHH to me... Blank Stare yes bring on the neg props and i know many people here orgasmed when they saw the M6
  • + 2
flag Spielkind (Aug 2, 2010 at 9:07)
 Nice Bike, but I´ve asked myself what Intense might have paid for that advert on Pinkbike!
  • + 4
flag Deif (Aug 2, 2010 at 9:51)
 well, at least the m6 will be a bit more afordable now
  • - 3
flag MatthewCarpenter (Aug 2, 2010 at 10:07)
 lovely frame, but Big Betty tyres are like the worst tyre choice you can make as a Downhiller, I don't know why they put it on that product photo....(Dirty Dan or Wicked Will would have been alright)
  • + 7
flag stinker (Aug 2, 2010 at 10:29)
 i dont think its normal to be sexually turned on by a bike but i believe all of us are Razz
  • + 2
flag nickkkk (Aug 2, 2010 at 10:57)
 so thats what they are hiding at area 51
  • + 1
flag a1bike4me (Aug 2, 2010 at 12:14)
 i should have waited to buy my commencal!!
  • + 0
flag CrashProned (Aug 2, 2010 at 12:32)
 eye-gasm much? Drool
  • + 1
flag kevron711 (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:36)
 sexy!
  • + 9
flag kiwihardtail (Aug 2, 2010 at 15:40)
 There's one reason I'm never going to buy one of these... When ever you are out for a casual ride or some runs every single punter you pass will say "heh isn't that bike for racing only?" and you will have to refrain from assaulting each and every one of them.
  • + 1
flag history (Aug 2, 2010 at 16:23)
 @NWray

http://www.pinkbike.com/photo/2996421/

nuff said man m6s are dece m9s are better
  • + 2
flag kevin-mcd (Aug 2, 2010 at 16:40)
 any info on build kits? id imagine a good build from intense will be almost $7000 if not more
  • + 1
flag oonser Plus (Aug 2, 2010 at 20:05)
 10 inches still?
  • + 1
flag jay2322 Plus (Aug 2, 2010 at 20:25)
 DAYUM!! And did anyone else think that the welder in the back looked like he would whoop someone's ass just for looking at him the wrong way?
  • + 1
flag a1bike4me (Aug 2, 2010 at 20:30)
 ya they dont want a pussy welding there stuff
  • + 1
flag banshee-ripper (Aug 2, 2010 at 21:31)
 That's one damn sweet beautiful looking machine of pure fuction! Drool!!!
  • + 1
flag bikounet (Aug 3, 2010 at 9:06)
 nice bike, looks a little bit like the M6, but looks better.
  • - 1
flag suicidedownhiller (Aug 3, 2010 at 14:39)
 State of the art eh? yeah, same technology karpiel had in '99. Sweet looking bike, about time intense caught up to their riders skill, the last revolutionary design from intense (in DH anyways) was the M1...
  • + 1
flag banshee-ripper (Aug 4, 2010 at 11:46)
 Karpiel used paralel-link, NOT VPP! DUH! Rolleyes The only company using this technollogy in '99 was it originator: Outland!
  • + 2
flag suicidedownhiller (Aug 4, 2010 at 16:32)
 I meant using mechanical advantages to fine tune the progressiveness, and adjustable geo/travel by rotating a part on the linkage.
  • + 3
flag knightridersix04 (Aug 5, 2010 at 11:19)
 I wouldn't mind getting my hands on a raw one, they look sick, I might end up breaking it though since it is a race only frame (braces self for negative props)
  • + 3
flag banshee-ripper (Aug 5, 2010 at 20:48)
 anyone to neg-prop you on that point would be stupid since even Intense prepares them selves for defense of them breaking(hence why they put F.R.O. on it)...
[Reply]
  • + 9
flag sweeneyrider (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:16)
 that is one b-e-a-u-tiful bike although my dad just came an saw me droolling over it and just asked 'have ikea started making bikes'
[Reply]
  • + 12
flag fighterkyle (Aug 1, 2010 at 23:46)
 O......M......G......
  • + 12
flag iamamodel (Aug 2, 2010 at 3:55)
 You forgot the "...F..."
  • - 1
flag bever-lover (Aug 2, 2010 at 11:22)
 haha Smile
  • + 4
flag kiwihardtail (Aug 2, 2010 at 14:21)
 FROMG*
[Reply]
  • + 9
flag marcellogiraldi (Aug 2, 2010 at 8:24)
 Now I undestand...

Intense 951 was a pre-project.

9 = Intense M9
51= Area 51
  • + 2
flag NWray (Aug 2, 2010 at 8:54)
 you my friend are my new hero lol that was hilarious lol
[Reply]
  • + 10
flag veddermountainman (Aug 1, 2010 at 22:36)
 ofmg amazing!
  • + 1
flag Waldon83 (Aug 2, 2010 at 21:27)
 Team Issue . . . . for which team because CRC are on Marzocchi. So which lucky bastard get's this exact bad boy?
[Reply]
  • + 9
flag dannyweiland (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:10)
 looks like a v10
  • + 1
flag DownhillDomination (Aug 2, 2010 at 15:33)
 Was just thinking that!
Looks perfect, everything just fits in and looks so neat.
Would be keen to ride one!
  • + 2
flag ShelbySmith (Aug 2, 2010 at 16:37)
 instense pays santa cruz for the linkage system that is why they look so similar.
  • + 1
flag oonser Plus (Aug 2, 2010 at 20:30)
 thnk you for answering that. i was wondering what was going on with that. how long has santa cruz had the vpp
[Reply]
  • + 4
flag TomBasic (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:39)
 Would you peoples please comment on the welding? I know I'll get mega-flamed for my post, but I've never liked the welding on Intense bikes. It looks wrong. The "dimes" are big, with little overlap and not smooth. It's so distinctive you know it's done that way, on purpose. Look at the welds on other bikes, like Santa Cruz and Giant and Specialized. They have more overlap on their dimes, making the weld appear less ropey and more smooth. THIS IS NOT A QUESTION ABOUT PREFERENCES!!! I'd like to hear some educated guesses as to WHY Intense welds their frames this way. If there are other makers, who weld this way, too, I'd like to know about them. As far as I know, no one else does it this way. If you can't tell the difference, please don't muddy the water with a pointless comment. Thanks.
  • + 1
flag Mreasternrider (Aug 2, 2010 at 14:19)
 Wherever there is a weld the weld itself becomes a the strongest point, although the edges of the weld become prone to cracking if that strength isn't spread over a wide area. Im going to guess that other brands use a smaller, more frequent beading to make it less bulgy and more visually appealing. Intense can widen the frequency of the bead because its a wider weld giving it the proper strength. The reason that intense does it is probably just preference and it stands out as well making it unique. I personally like to see the strength, not just hope its there... but thats just my two cents.
  • + 1
flag sbggrz (Aug 2, 2010 at 23:36)
 After heat treatment the strength in the welding seam and the surrounding area should be distributed more homogeneously. That's why I don't think wider seams are supposed to be stronger. But that's just a guess, I was never involved in the design of a mtb frame.
  • + 1
flag TomBasic (Aug 4, 2010 at 8:40)
 Mreasternrider and sbggrz, thanks for your comments. I hadn't thought about the width of the weld, but you're right: Intense's beads are wider. I'm glad that someone else notices that it does stand out.
[Reply]
  • + 3
flag s100mphplus Plus (Aug 2, 2010 at 6:02)
 Engineering wise it is an object of beauty and some fine workmanship but I see they're still persisting with the non replaceable mech hanger option, bend the hanger and it's £120 for a whole new drop out!! No thanks!
  • + 1
flag jweinstein (Aug 2, 2010 at 9:31)
 True; at least their dropouts Are very strong. I know four people (including myself) that have intense frames with the replacable dropouts and none have had to replace them due to a bent hanger.
  • + 1
flag oceen246 (Aug 2, 2010 at 15:08)
 I am one of those who had to replace one. I smashed mine pretty hard against a big pointy rock sticking out. It destroyed both my derailleur and the drive side drop out... sigh...
  • + 1
flag cowieuk (Aug 3, 2010 at 4:49)
 Retail price on the dropouts are £150 each side. No thank you Intense Cycles. I'd rather have fun on a bike where I wouldn't worry about clipping a rock. How exactly does Intense seem to think £150 is fair. Thats over 10 times the price of the hanger for my current bikes!
  • + 1
flag jweinstein (Aug 9, 2010 at 21:51)
 that is ridicules...they cost $150 (yes; usd) here. I guess everything is just more expensive when it gets imported from a first world country...
[Reply]
  • + 2
flag palin Plus (Aug 2, 2010 at 21:48)
 That looks sick. Who really cares if it's said to be only for WC racing? I say f*ck everyone and if you have the money to buy it then by all means you should and who gives if your going to race WC or local trails? just enjoy it.
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag Keiron (Aug 2, 2010 at 8:50)
 $2999/£1906 is an amazing price! .... but then comes Ripoff Britain's UK import tax. I reckon CRC will stock these @ about £2300. If i see this on the market for the U.S MRSP £2999 stock exchange equivalant, I shall buy the M9, I spare pair of drop outs and eat a marmite sandwhich
  • + 1
flag amrskipro (Aug 2, 2010 at 18:31)
 Or you could fly to a North American MTB resort, buy the new M9 in USD, ride for about ten days and then fly back to the UK with your nearly new bike for about the same price as you would pay if you purchased it retail in the UK.
  • + 1
flag Keiron (Aug 3, 2010 at 10:41)
 I might just have to lol
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag thegringo (Aug 2, 2010 at 20:14)
 I reckon this one is the holy grail that Jeff Steber has been working his balls off for since the worldwide success of the M1,and that's a lot of years now.The M3,the Socom,the M6,and most recently the 951.None of them seem to have satisfied the genious perfectionist,as far as out and out DH race thouroughbreds are concerned,but that revised lower link could make all the difference.And maybe Mr.Steber can take a well deserved rest,and watch the podiums come flying in.Good luck to Intense on this bike,cos it does look the mutts nutts,and very scary for the competition.
Gringo.Drool
[Reply]
  • + 3
flag stryke Plus (Aug 2, 2010 at 4:09)
 lol

intense m6, intense 951, intense m9, wonder how many other flagship downhill bikes they will have made by the end of the year
  • + 1
flag therealintensecycles (Aug 2, 2010 at 9:41)
 The M-series of bikes have always been our flagship bike. M6 was our flagship bike, the M9 is replacing the M6, simple evolution stryke. 951 is a high end DH race bike, more built for everyday DH riding, while the M-series has always been for world cup racing only.
  • + 4
flag stryke Plus (Aug 2, 2010 at 9:43)
 cool marketing man
  • + 4
flag dirtbagluvin (Aug 2, 2010 at 9:55)
 I wonder how many M9's will sell to people who DON'T race WC's (probably most!!)........
About the 951's........has there been changes to the top tube? I've heard of more than a few cracking (not on the internet).....
The new M9 sure looks the part though!!

Also- do you ever plan on doing demo days (say at Whistler).....b/c how do you go on the drool factor when you have no idea how it actually rides?!!
  • + 1
flag DhGabe (Aug 2, 2010 at 10:55)
 Sick Sick Sick ass bikes. I peddaled a 951 around the parking lot at the JensonUsa grand opening and it felt so nice I wet myself.... Not because it felt smooth in the parking lot and going off the curb but because I imagined how it'd feel on the trails!!

Oh and maybe a lot, since most people who DO race WC's are sponsored... Lucky F'ers. I think a demo day at Mammoth would be more likely to happen than one at Whistler.... Doubt a SoCal based company (even though they are HUGE) would want to load up a truck with bikes and drive all the way up there just to demo them out. Just my 2 cents anyways... But what do I know I just sit on the comp all day hahaha! jk. I dont do that really.
  • + 1
flag robholio Plus (Aug 2, 2010 at 12:41)
 Wrong. Intense did a demo day at Post Canyon a few years ago, and that's just a local freeride spot in Hood River. I think the biggest bike park in the world more than qualifies for some rider attention and demo time...
  • + 1
flag DhGabe (Aug 2, 2010 at 17:09)
 Exactly my point... LOCAL. Do you have any idea how long it would take to drive up to Whistler. From my place to Oregon it takes a full 20 hours and I dont do speed limit, now add on the extra distance plus the fact that a truck with all the bikes wouldnt be able to do 75+. Just sayin it doesnt sound reasonable to me, not that they absolutely wouldnt (I dont work for ITS so I wouldnt know)
  • + 1
flag dirtbagluvin (Aug 2, 2010 at 18:37)
 My original point was that I want to be able to RIDE a bike before buying it. Who here has had time to actually evaluate a 951 or an M6?!! NOT ME?!! The specs don't tell me squat. How a bike's front end pops up into a manual, and how it snaps into/out of a corner, THAT talks to me!! We need more demo days- at kick ass places!!
  • + 1
flag robholio Plus (Aug 3, 2010 at 10:35)
 DhGabe: 20 hours to Whistler from Oregon? Are you taking a detour through Utah or something? And if they are willing to drive from Temecula to Hood River (roughly 18 hours), an additional 7 to Whistler from Oregon is not out of the question.
[Reply]
  • + 4
flag harriieee (Aug 2, 2010 at 9:03)
 I hear the wheels refuse to turn unless you have a number plate ziptied to the stanchions....
  • + 2
flag DirtyDee (Aug 2, 2010 at 9:52)
 you made a funny
  • + 1
flag Keiron (Aug 2, 2010 at 11:18)
 LOLOLOLLOL! It took me a moment to click on to that one. Good stuff lol
[Reply]
  • + 5
flag Jumpin-Jason (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:08)
 that is the best lookin dh bike ive ever seen
[Reply]
  • + 6
flag DespisedICON (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:09)
 Those Welds are perfect.
  • + 3
flag cranxwork (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:53)
 It seems a shame to paint over them - I would love to have that raw one, looks sick!!
  • + 3
flag kaptaincorey19 (Aug 2, 2010 at 1:02)
 hopefully they have the works raw or works blue for this, buddy just got the works blue on his uzzi, freakin nicest paint job ive ever seen
[Reply]
  • + 3
flag xtr3m3 (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:50)
 MSRP will be $2999 (USD) including the angleset upgrade and FOX RC4 oops :O can't belive
  • + 1
flag dirtydroog (Aug 2, 2010 at 12:00)
 if the dollar continues to fall against sterling i'll definitely consider asking one of my friends in the US to bring me one over
[Reply]
  • + 2
flag badgermeister (Aug 2, 2010 at 11:20)
 anyone feel that bikes are becoming penis enlargement devices like the fast car syndrome? i don't just want one of these, i need one!!!!!!
[Reply]
  • + 3
flag iamamodel (Aug 2, 2010 at 4:06)
 That really is a gorgeous bike.

Kudos to a company that started at the top with the M1 and has just kept going strong.
[Reply]
  • + 4
flag kanioni (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:59)
 *Painted links will not be standard-these are team bikes.
Annoying Frown
  • + 1
flag therealintensecycles (Aug 2, 2010 at 9:43)
 Kanioni, quite easy to remove our links and have painted yourself, its an easy 'home improvement project' Wink
  • + 2
flag kanioni (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:34)
 I'm not so good in those home improvement projects, I wonder how they would look like after my 'magic touch' on them Big Grin
[Reply]
  • + 3
flag sbggrz (Aug 2, 2010 at 10:46)
 You gotta trust that welder!
The amount and length of welding seams is spectacular!
  • + 2
flag cesalec (Aug 2, 2010 at 12:39)
 is not the amount what is important, but the material and craftsmanship that makes the whole difference...
[Reply]
  • + 4
flag travisfoxx (Aug 2, 2010 at 10:27)
 kinda resembles the driver 8 or v10. its ok go ahead and neg prop me
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag mrmars Plus (Aug 2, 2010 at 6:58)
 I love when Intense bikes are painted OLD school red and yellow. i was starting to get disappointed till i saw the last one.

one legit bad-ass bike.
[Reply]
  • + 2
flag campofchampions Plus (Aug 1, 2010 at 23:44)
 Oh man, do I want to get these for Camp so campers can ride them and lose their minds.
Ken
  • + 27
flag chris-underhill (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:11)
 was that an attempt at advertising?
  • + 7
flag burkemtnrider (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:20)
 if you get these i will sign up
  • - 7
flag rffr (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:32) (Below Threshold) show comment
 They don't need to advertise... the welds speak for themselves. Outside of the Primer, I have to say this is probably one of the cleanest most well thought out frames I have seen to date. Rock on.
  • + 11
flag teamn2 (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:49)
 chris-underhill wasnt talking about the frame he was talking about the attempted advertising by campofchampions hahaha
  • + 12
flag DirtyDee (Aug 2, 2010 at 9:49)
 Do you mean the welds speak for themselves or break for themselves...? Cos in my experience thats what they do best.

Logically when they sell a bike they should give away an extra frame with it from the FPO series (for practice only). You can't race without practicing, but you can't ride this frame except for racing - Catch 22
  • + 1
flag teamn2 (Aug 2, 2010 at 12:49)
 haha nice dirtydee
  • + 1
flag Dymented-Delirium (Aug 2, 2010 at 18:41)
 Mad props DirtyDee.
  • + 1
flag Waldon83 (Aug 2, 2010 at 21:31)
 Yeah, I've heard a lot of people say they are more like ORO (one race only)
I know they don't have the best reputation for been strong bikes, but look at bikes that are over built for strength. No one buys them any more

Now that's a catch 22
  • + 0
flag rffr (Aug 2, 2010 at 22:56)
 Well, I wouldn't go near as far as saying no one buys them anymore. That is like saying, the dh scene mainly revolves around the race scene... in which that is far from the truth.

Remember the foes mono. Those were not too strong either, but none the less, there are still some being used even today. Sure it may be race only, but that is also to help them with warrenties issues from careless people. IE call it race only, they can easily route out 1/2 the rma claims on broken bikes. Its smart business. But of course, the new m9's are more than built to handle park riding or whatever the hell you throw at it.
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag justcamiam (Aug 4, 2010 at 22:09)
 I don't think anyone can comprehend the amount of saliva I have produced simply looking at this bike...gotta love this time of year!(And a carbon v10?!)
[Reply]
  • + 2
flag riggadon (Aug 2, 2010 at 4:16)
 blue and yellow look so racy, but that yellow linkage is kind of an eyesore
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag xtr3m3 (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:48)
 really porn machine !!! all respect for the engineers who could create something like this... I dream every night on a bike like this :X:X
[Reply]
  • + 2
flag trippleacht (Aug 2, 2010 at 3:37)
 i feel kinda sorry for those having to run these yellow linkages

looks awesome in raw
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag Pitcrew (Aug 2, 2010 at 6:47)
 Looks great, and i want it. But i see a issue, that lower link is gonna pack with mud, which the east coast generally has 90% of the races....
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag TomBasic (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:41)
 Might I further add, this has nothing to do with whether the bike is good or not. Capiche?
  • + 1
flag bigtard (Aug 2, 2010 at 23:57)
 your saying strong or not welds don't make a bike good or not?
you're exactly the right kind of guy to buy an intense
you won't mind when it cracks and takes forever for warranty.
  • + 1
flag TomBasic (Aug 4, 2010 at 8:42)
 Hey bigtard, what did you have go wrong? What year and model did you have, and where did it crack?
  • + 1
flag bigtard (Aug 4, 2010 at 22:38)
 i've never been silly enough or rich enough to buy one. but i've seen plenty of my friends miss out on tons of riding because their bike cracked
or what about the rear tires rubbing the seat tube on the m6's
or the link plates cracking
or their warranty program of just rewelding broken headtubes

those bikes cost a lot of money

buy something with a sweet warranty that costs less and spend the leftover money on keeping it running
[Reply]
  • + 2
flag callumpyoung (Aug 2, 2010 at 10:00)
 if i win the lottery Smile its mine!!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag DARKSTAR63 (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:26)
 Thank you for your insightful contribution.......bigtard? Yes, thank you BIGTARD.
  • + 1
flag bigtard (Aug 2, 2010 at 23:54)
 do you disagree, or do you just think my name is awesome?
  • + 1
flag DARKSTAR63 (Aug 3, 2010 at 4:37)
 Lol, I guess its just the name. I have never owned an Intense, so I can not attest to your comment. But no doubt this new one looks pretty badass.
[Reply]
  • + 2
flag stinkybigd (Aug 2, 2010 at 10:51)
 intense now has, if not the best lineup up bikes out right now
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag cesalec (Aug 2, 2010 at 12:29)
 I need some big bucks (maybe in another lifetime) to get me one of those in blue...
[Reply]
  • + 2
flag lowriders (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:19)
 This bike is awesome.Surely this will be my next bike.It is perfect.
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag trevormann (Aug 2, 2010 at 6:44)
 that bike is unreal! my next rig lol!! are they still going to have the 951 in the collection? maybe as a burlier socom...?
  • + 1
flag gnarbar (Aug 2, 2010 at 7:06)
 Yes
  • + 2
flag tobiebiker (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:39)
 951 is like ther alll around dh bike the m9 is alll wc haha neither are good for freeride haha
[Reply]
  • + 2
flag leonfryman (Aug 2, 2010 at 18:49)
 I must have one.......kidney for sale $2999 (USD)
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag cardronapumpandjumptrack (Aug 2, 2010 at 18:30)
 mark my words there will be a carbon intense DH bike in the next two years!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag nightfox (Aug 2, 2010 at 1:08)
 It's like the Ferrari of mountain bikes. I do think the M6 was quite good though.
  • + 1
flag panzer103 (Aug 2, 2010 at 3:14)
 I hope so b/c thats what I bought earlier in the year. Its not done yet- everything costs so much.
  • + 1
flag oceen246 (Aug 2, 2010 at 5:18)
 lol, I have a M6 and my brother a 951. This sucks cause now I gotta find a way to get that M9 frame, lol.
  • + 1
flag JubaBabaci (Aug 2, 2010 at 6:00)
 Oceen246 can i have your full address please? Ha-ha you act so casual about owning such nice bikes! Razz
  • + 1
flag oceen246 (Aug 2, 2010 at 15:05)
 Haha, no but it's really a shame, I really want that M9, but there's no way I'm going to have both frames at the same time.
[Reply]
  • + 3
flag federal5471 (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:42)
 looks nice in bare metal
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag 1rickydh (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:55)
 thats mouth watering Smile

would love that welded and laquared. looks sick !
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag mongoose85 (Aug 2, 2010 at 16:18)
 Pure American made pride right there! Smile Gorgeous frame.
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag specializedrider219 (Aug 2, 2010 at 11:32)
 whats the big difference between the 951 and the m9?
  • + 1
flag gnarbar (Aug 2, 2010 at 11:47)
 Travel and application, 951 for DH race, M9 for really aggro courses
  • + 1
flag cesalec (Aug 2, 2010 at 12:40)
 I was asking myself the same question, why 2 different DH bikes, care to elaborate a bit more?
  • + 1
flag gnarbar (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:14)
 You have the 951 with 8-to-8.5" of adjustable travel. You can tighten the HA and raise the BB with G3 dropouts making it more suitable for less gnarly courses. Or slacken it to 94.5 degrees and lower the BB to silly point. Better for rougher gnar WC courses. Most likely you'd be running both settings on and off through the season. In the 8" travel mode this bike is tight, pops nicely, and rails tight corners really snappy. M9 is (I believe 8.5-to-10" travel (or very close to that) with the same G3 adjustable dropouts and adjustable HTA. BUT you'd probably be running it mostly slack and low because it's a high speed gnar-gobbling weapon. It's just my personal opinion but these bikes are designed for maximum course adjustability, tuning for rider preference, and optimal performance on a given day/location. So you're either a non-racing DH'er who can tune it to suit their style or local trails (say you only ride MSA then you go slack and loose) or a racer who has more range of adjustability (and thus incredibly improved results - ha !). Not really the bikes for those who are mainly freeriders wanting a bit of a FR/DH crossover bike park bike. M9 is probably a heavier frame weight so there's an impact right there.

All my 2c based on what I've seen, read, and ridden (time on the M6 and the 951).
  • + 1
flag tobiebiker (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:34)
 you have some pretty good info you compiled but heres what it comes downt to the 951 is more layed back style....more national riding than wc but the M9 is way more hardcore wc...simply thats all its probley good for to not a very diverse bike if u ask me but im gettin mine soon cause all i do is dh no freeride really
  • + 3
flag me2menow (Aug 2, 2010 at 15:37)
 i bet you that less than 5 non- team riders will race m9s at a world cup
seriously, what kind of nonsense is theis "wc ONLYYY" bullshit. youre gonna run into the same abuse, if not less on your local trails so why does intense pull this bullshit? are they tring to tell their customers to f*ck off?
  • - 1
flag gnarbar (Aug 2, 2010 at 16:13)
 I don't think anyone is saying WC only...just in relation to the type of trails it's suitable for (or more relevant to). Why so much angst and attitude in your post ? Jeez folks who ride these bikes are just trying to be helpful and provide comparisons.
  • + 1
flag me2menow (Aug 2, 2010 at 16:38)
 no, intense themselves said it. read the whole page.
  • + 0
flag gnarbar (Aug 2, 2010 at 18:41)
 I re-read the article and I don't read what you read into it....weird.
  • + 1
flag tobiebiker (Aug 2, 2010 at 21:08)
 im just voicing my opinion no need to get worked up about it and yes gnarbar thats the point i was getting across
  • + 1
flag me2menow (Aug 2, 2010 at 21:36)
 therealintensecycles (12 hours ago)
The M-series of bikes have always been our flagship bike. M6 was our flagship bike, the M9 is replacing the M6, simple evolution stryke. 951 is a high end DH race bike, more built for everyday DH riding, while the M-series has always been for world cup racing only.
  • + 1
flag tobiebiker (Aug 2, 2010 at 23:35)
 well im just saying its not a good everyday bike i can promise you that
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag cloaked (Aug 2, 2010 at 16:34)
 DO WANT!

Sorry caps, but holy hell that is one nice bike.
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag scottchris (Aug 3, 2010 at 12:46)
 words cannot describe how finger lickingly sexy this bike is....nuff said
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag Shortyhimself (Aug 3, 2010 at 14:28)
 damn you.. thats what i call beauty!!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag JakubJ (Aug 3, 2010 at 12:46)
 OH___MY___GOD! Amazing! Big props to you!
[Reply]
  • + 0
flag dopenastyrider45 (Aug 2, 2010 at 12:35)
 why do i feel like santa cruz's v10 carbon frame and the new intense m9 pro are basically the same bike
  • + 2
flag gnarbar (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:17)
 Because you've dropped acid brah
  • + 1
flag DARKSTAR63 (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:25)
 hehe
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag kanioni (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:37)
 This time they had to pick a name that is non BMW-based Smile
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag cunharider (Aug 2, 2010 at 14:26)
 oh f*ck just love this bike...
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag loolilon (Aug 3, 2010 at 13:07)
 i wonder what will brake and were?
[Reply]
  • - 2
flag bigtard (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:16)
 looks nice
but can you say cracks all the time and takes forever for warranty?
i can
cracks all the time and takes forever for warranty
they're good for sponsored riders, and fat rich slow dudes
c'mon we all know it
  • + 2
flag gnarbar (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:42)
 Had awesome support through warranty, could not fault that at all. Heard other things good and bad alike but just my two cents. None of my three frames have cracked and they've been ridden a hella lot.
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag jordanspokey (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:12)
 i would give a kidney and a testicle to have one of these
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag dR-Ugz (Aug 2, 2010 at 10:40)
 wow that looks alot like the banshee legend Mk-II
  • + 1
flag tobiebiker (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:36)
 nah more like a v-10
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag mtbflow135 (Aug 3, 2010 at 14:17)
 the things i would do to that bike..
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag mudd (Aug 2, 2010 at 15:29)
 Rick the Welder is my hero!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag utahbiker24 (Aug 2, 2010 at 10:10)
 Defianlty designed for world cup
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag bbreeze (Aug 2, 2010 at 10:17)
 Nice shots and perfect built.
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag rcpro88 (Aug 2, 2010 at 7:22)
 intense build yet another great bike, NOT surprized
  • + 1
flag sookewheeler (Aug 2, 2010 at 7:34)
 i kno rite, they never let the public down. but just imagine black with like a dark purple
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag eneasbernardo (Aug 2, 2010 at 7:23)
 Let me go working hard after hours in order to get extra money...
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag bombersik (Aug 2, 2010 at 7:34)
 OMG most beautiful frame ever seen
[Reply]
  • + 0
flag mackeroo (Aug 2, 2010 at 6:03)
 Looks like a cross between the old BigHit and V10...and it looks stunning!

Who needs carbon fibre when Alu looks this good?
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag MoncoMan12 (Aug 6, 2010 at 21:55)
 holy shit....what a beast!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag NORTHSHORETYLER (Aug 7, 2010 at 19:36)
 cant get any better than that!!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag DMR991 (Aug 2, 2010 at 1:30)
 Neeeeeeeeeeeeeddddddddddddddddddd!!!!!!!!!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag brianbear (Aug 2, 2010 at 1:50)
 Gimme the naked frame, no paint!
  • + 1
flag dirtjumper771 (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:58)
 ya, it looks pretty awesome even without the paint
[Reply]
  • + 2
flag cyprusdownhill (Aug 2, 2010 at 3:49)
 Piece of ART!!!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag MTBmadness12 (Aug 2, 2010 at 8:18)
 wow thats intense, they really got it right with this one
[Reply]
  • + 2
flag Rockurshoxoff95 (Aug 2, 2010 at 6:52)
 omfg... O_O beautiful !
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag Dash14 (Aug 2, 2010 at 9:11)
 Raw version is soo epic !
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag Gord28 (Aug 3, 2010 at 12:53)
 Fook me I want one, what a bit of kit
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag davidt (Aug 2, 2010 at 9:24)
 Looks like i'll be riding an M9 next season!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag stevedh (Aug 2, 2010 at 18:48)
 What a sexy machine !!!!
  • + 1
flag mbalcita (Aug 2, 2010 at 20:53)
 its like sex on wheels!!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag adamhanna (Aug 2, 2010 at 11:33)
 looks alot like a v10
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag mitch686 (Aug 2, 2010 at 16:41)
 ....
  • + 1
flag lalocotequinta (Aug 2, 2010 at 18:32)
 "Simple adjustment with our new pinch bolt head tube" that we copied from Commencal...
  • + 1
flag jweinstein (Aug 9, 2010 at 21:55)
 commencal ain't the only one bro...corsair and others use it too. If it isn't patented then why shouldn't they do it?
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag junior77 (Aug 2, 2010 at 4:24)
 OMG!!!! o.O
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag brambara (Aug 2, 2010 at 3:44)
 This is a MONSTER (bow)
[Reply]
  • + 0
flag matnorth (Aug 2, 2010 at 1:05)
 So sexy and so many setup options....drool..
[Reply]
  • + 0
flag murilogomes (Aug 3, 2010 at 5:28)
 Perfect!!!
Intense M9 the best bike!!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag rafa123 (Aug 2, 2010 at 9:12)
 OMFG!! perfect job
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag lameclown07 (Aug 2, 2010 at 11:40)
 boss.
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag robolo38 (Aug 3, 2010 at 11:58)
 Heaven on two wheels
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag Vaili (Aug 2, 2010 at 4:47)
 OMFG THATS SO AWESOME!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag opie220 (Aug 2, 2010 at 12:06)
 its orgasmic
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag ctd07 (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:31)
 mmmmmmmmm Drool
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag EpicBikeMan (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:37)
 So sick!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag ballsmcbeaver123 (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:13)
 that thing is a beast!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag williamnorcoshore (Aug 2, 2010 at 7:19)
 wowwww
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag smen (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:41)
 I can see the strings...
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag dirtjumper571 (Aug 2, 2010 at 11:43)
 engineering master piece
[Reply]
  • + 0
flag ribb (Aug 2, 2010 at 14:19)
 wicked looking frame, but the yellow links and drop outs look shite
  • + 1
flag c25porter (Aug 2, 2010 at 14:39)
 It is all matter of opinion, I like the painted links, black or white on a red bike would look awesome.
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag DARKSTAR63 (Aug 2, 2010 at 6:13)
 bike porn right there.
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag rob123 (Aug 6, 2010 at 6:52)
 thats intense!
[Reply]
  • + 1
flag Jodaro (Aug 2, 2010 at 8:08)
 Damn.
[Reply]
  • + 0
flag jweinstein (Aug 2, 2010 at 9:34)
 I 3 Intense 4evr...lol
[Reply]
  • - 1
flag socalshreder (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:47)
 Whoses the official around here, cuz i officially got a boaner!
[Reply]
  • + 0
flag six-feet-under (Aug 2, 2010 at 11:47)
 It just doesn't end.
[Reply]
  • - 1
flag SuperBock (Aug 2, 2010 at 13:08)
 f*ck supercars.............buy an intense!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
[Reply]
  • - 3
flag artzicat1 (Aug 2, 2010 at 7:10)
 crap i think i CAME
[Reply]
  • - 2
flag caiocrz (Aug 2, 2010 at 4:41)
 I just came
[Reply]
  • - 2
flag johnhedman (Aug 2, 2010 at 0:57)
 I just Jizzed in my pants! That is an awsome frame!
[Reply]
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