Cotic has a new version of its popular long-travel Rocket enduro bike.
The Rocket still rolls agile 27.5-inch wheels but for 2020 Cotic has made it even more capable on the most technical of descents. Dedicated enduro riders and those who regularly make a pilgrimage to ride the most challenging of Alpine tracks, are the target audience for this fourth-generation Rocket.
A new front triangle is shaped from premium Reynolds 853 steel tubing and connected to it, is Cotic’s proven drop-link suspension platform, which has grown in travel. The fourth-generation Rocket has 165mm of rear shock suspension movement, which is 8mm greater than the third-generation bike.
To ensure the best possible usage of this additional rear-suspension capability, Cotic’s engineers have made alterations to the Rocket’s geometry. The fourth-generation bike is, therefore, both longer and slacker.
Scrutinise Cotic’s updated 2020 Rocket geometry chart and you’ll notice that its head angle has reduced by half a degree, to 64-degrees. Cotic also recommends a substantial 170mm front fork for its fourth-generating Rocket and steering is best optimised by using a 35mm stem.
To complement the slacker head angle and longer travel numbers at both axles, Cotic has also stretched the new Rocket a tad. A size large now features 485.9mm of reach, which is 4.9mm more generous than the 2019 version.
One element of the Rocket which Cotic has not altered is its chainstays, which remain at 437mm, for easily popping-up of the front wheel and very swift changes of direction. The new Rocket’s rear triangle is spaced to roll a 2.6in wide tyre with some mud clearance to spare.
The fourth-generation Rocket also debuts Cotic’s new head badge and graphics. If you are interested in a frame and shock option, prices start at £2,199. Complete builds range from £3,199 to £6,999.
