I have to disagree. I was fortunate enough to ride one of these new prototypes in the epic this year and it was awesome. I loved the simplicity and reliability of the single pivot of the previous marathon bikes. But the comfort and control from this new design with the active suspension has convinced me. First time I wrode it I felt like I was riding a 6 inch trail bike because it just sucks up everything. At the epic it was ultra reliable and absolutely faultless. Team BBB wrode these bikes in the toughest epic ever from start to finish where many other big name brands and legendary designs came unstuck. Noy pointing fingers but check this pic from day 3. Oh and David George wrode one of these 2009 prototypes onto the podium. No offense but thanks to the handling of that bike a roadie like him was able to mix it up with the worlds best MTB riders. Hence I am selling my Marathon team and holdingout for the new 2009 Raleigh FS.
Saw this on the Raleigh website There are some rumors on different internet forums about the question if our new design is just copied or not. And when I look at the bikes being reputed to be the originals, I don't know if I should cry or laugh about it. http://www.raleigh.co.za/blogs.php?blogId=251&authorId=5
I use the 540's and rate them. I find shimano pedals give you best bang for buck, nice range depending on how much you want to spend and they are indestructible. Haven't seen a broken one yet, but have seen broken ataks and egg beaters
