The Series 4 Aluminum frame features the MultiTrac 2 LT suspension platform that debuted on the new Alpine Trail models. MultiTrac 2 LT shifts from seatstay pivots to chainstay pivots, ensuring that the suspension performance matches our design goals, which are not achievable using pivots located on the seatstay once travel exceeds 150mm. As on the Alpine Trail, the benefits of relocating the rear pivot points from the seatstay to the chainstay become apparent, as it reduces anti-rise, allowing for better chassis control while braking, more mid-stroke support, and better feel at bottom out. Furthermore, relocation of the pivots provides the added benefit of allowing for adjustable chainstay lengths and bottom bracket heights. Ultimately, it’s a better-riding, better-performing suspension system made possible by the new pivot placement.

The Quake’s headtube is a 56ZS (56mm diameter, zero stack), to maximize aftermarket headset options for reach and headtube angle adjustments. Furthermore, the frame is also compatible with most appropriate single crown forks, with 29” or 27.5” front wheels. Riders who switch to 27.5” wheels need to use a 10-15mm external lower cup for 180-190mm single crown or 200mm dual crown forks.

Integrated flip chips allow the rider to quickly and easily choose from multiple configurations, based on terrain and equipment preference. Chainstay length and bottom bracket height can be set to low BB/long CS (353mm/440mm) or high BB/short CS (361mm/430mm). Those who prefer to run the Quake with a 29” rear wheel instead of the stock 27.5” can change the position of the seatstay chips to accommodate the larger diameter rear wheel.

Chainstay and seatstays are protected with durable rubber guards that minimize noise and protect paint finishes, a gasket around the cable exit hole reduces noise and prevents the brake hose and derailleur cable from marring the frame, and a mudflap positioned over the lower suspension pivot keeps spray and muck off the bearings. An integrated lower downtube guard helps deflect errant rocks, logs, or anything else riders may encounter on the trail, while an upper downtube shuttle pad protects the frame when hanging over a tailgate. Cable ports are of an all-new design and keep the frame innards sealed. These ports use rubber membranes punctured during initial assembly and seal around the housing or hose once inserted. They will be available as a service part when riders make change their components.