1994 Answer Manitou DH
After the success of the Manitou FS cross country bikes in 1992 and 1993, Answer Products introduced a downhill-specific model for 1994. The same front triangle from the cross country bikes was mated to a rear swingarm which was an inch longer, increasing the wheelbase and the stability on steep terrain. The bikes featured slightly more travel on both ends as well as an EFC damping cartridge in one of the fork legs, which was a noticeable improvement over the plain bumpers of the previous years. Also offered were a downhill handlebar and stem, although at 25 inches wide for the riser bars and 120 mm extension for the stem they seem rather cross country-oriented by today's standards. Continuing the design style from previous years, with hollow CNC junctions and anodized graphics, the bikes continued to be the perfect platform for colorful aftermarket parts. The Z-Max 2.35" tires were one of the few large tires available at the time, before tires specifically designed for downhill came on to the market. Unfortunately, continuing the trend begun with the previous models, the frames were prone to cracking, particularly at the headtube.
The Build
Year: 1994
Serial: DH950080 Frame: Answer Manitou DH Fork: Answer Manitou EFC DH Stem: Answer A-Tac DH Headset: Chris King Bottom Bracket: Shimano XTR Cartridge Bearing Handlebar: Answer Alumilite DH Shifters: SRAM Grip Shift 800X X-Ray Front Derailleur: Shimano XTR M900 Rear Derailleur: Shimano XTR M900 Long Cage Brake Levers: Avid Speed Dial Front Brake: Avid Tri-Align Rear Brake: Avid Tri-Align Crankset: Shimano XTR M900 Chainrings: Shimano XTR 26-36-48 Pedals: Shimano XT 747 Hubs: Manitou Suspension / Ringle Super Bubba Rims: Mavic 261 Tires: Ritchey Z-Max WCS 2.35 Wheel QR: Ringle Twister Seatpost: Answer Manitou Ringle Moby Saddle: Selle Italia Flite Grips: ATI Cogs: Shimano XTR M900 Chain: Sachs Bottle Cage: Ringle H2O |
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