Cotic RocketMAX MX: Steel, Speed, and Big-Mountain Capability

The Cotic RocketMAX MX isn’t just another enduro bike—it’s a steel-framed powerhouse built for riders who love charging hard on technical terrain. There’s something special about steel; it’s not the lightest material out there, but the ride quality is unmatched. It’s smooth, compliant, and has a character that aluminum and carbon just don’t replicate.

This bike is designed to tackle steep descents, chunky rock gardens, and long days in the saddle. With its mullet wheel setup (29” up front, 27.5” in the rear), progressive geometry, and a well-tuned suspension system, the RocketMAX MX delivers a balance of speed, stability, and agility. Whether you’re smashing through rough sections at full speed or navigating tight switchbacks, this bike keeps things controlled while maintaining that playful, steel-bike feel.

If you’re looking for something different—something that stands out from the sea of carbon and aluminum enduro bikes—this might be the one. But before we dive into the details, don’t forget to protect yourself with the proper safety equipment, trail gear, and outerwear. Ride smart, ride safe, and let’s see what this steel beast is all about.

Frame and Geometry

At the heart of the RocketMAX MX is Cotic’s signature Reynolds 853 steel tubing, offering a smooth and compliant ride feel that sets it apart from aluminum or carbon competitors. Steel may not be the lightest material, but it provides a unique balance of strength and comfort that many riders swear by.

Cotic has given this frame an aggressive modern geometry, with a 63.5-degree head angle, long reach, and a steep seat tube angle to keep pedaling efficient. The mullet setup further enhances its capabilities—offering a stable front end for control on steep terrain and a smaller rear wheel for agility and quicker cornering.

Suspension and Ride Quality

The RocketMAX MX features 160mm of front travel and 155mm in the rear, delivered through Cotic’s unique droplink suspension platform. The system is designed to offer excellent mid-stroke support and sensitivity while maintaining good pedaling efficiency.

On the trail, the suspension feels composed and confident, soaking up rough terrain without sacrificing playfulness. The bike climbs reasonably well for its category, though its steel frame and longer travel mean it’s better suited to riders who prioritize descending prowess over all-out efficiency.

Build Kit and Components

Cotic offers a range of build options, but key highlights of the test bike include:

• Fork: RockShox Zeb Ultimate 160mm – burly and stiff for big hits
• Shock: RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate – plush and supportive
• Drivetrain: SRAM GX Eagle – reliable and wide-ranging
• Brakes: SRAM Code R – powerful and consistent
• Wheels: Hunt Enduro Wide – durable and responsive

This setup is dialed for aggressive trail and enduro riding, with components that can take a beating while keeping the ride feel snappy and controlled.

Performance on the Trail

Climbing

For a long-travel steel bike, the RocketMAX MX climbs better than expected. The steep seat tube keeps weight forward for efficient pedaling, and while it’s not the lightest option out there, the bike’s geometry helps it stay planted on technical climbs. The steel frame’s natural compliance also helps smooth out trail chatter.

Descending

Point the RocketMAX MX downhill, and it comes alive. The long reach, slack head angle, and mullet setup make it incredibly capable on steep, technical descents. It feels stable at high speeds but still nimble enough to navigate tight switchbacks. The rear suspension is supportive, soaking up big hits without feeling wallowy. It’s a bike that encourages aggressive riding while maintaining a level of playfulness.

Send It

✅ Smooth, compliant steel frame – Reynolds 853 tubing delivers a unique, comfortable ride feel.
✅ Modern enduro geometry – Long reach, slack head angle, and steep seat tube make it stable and confident.
✅ Mullet setup for balance – 29″ front for control, 27.5″ rear for agility.
✅ Strong and reliable build kit – RockShox Zeb, Super Deluxe, and SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain handle aggressive riding.
✅ Excels in technical terrain – Designed to charge through rock gardens and steep descents with ease.
✅ Handmade and unique – A boutique steel bike that stands out from the carbon and aluminum crowd.

A Little Sketchy

❌ Not the lightest option – Steel frames are durable, but they come with extra weight.
❌ Climbing takes effort – While efficient for its category, it’s not a mountain goat.
❌ Less pop than carbon or aluminum – The compliant frame absorbs chatter but may feel less snappy on jumps.
❌ Mullet setup isn’t for everyone – Some riders prefer a full 29er for added stability.
❌ Boutique pricing – A high-end steel frame comes with a premium price tag.

Who Is This Bike For?

The Cotic RocketMAX MX is ideal for riders who love big-mountain riding, enduro racing, and aggressive trail shredding. If you’re looking for a steel bike with progressive geometry, excellent downhill capability, and a smooth, compliant ride, this is a top-tier choice. It’s not the lightest or most efficient climber, but if descending is your priority, the RocketMAX MX delivers in spades.

Final Thoughts

Cotic has built something special with the RocketMAX MX. Its steel frame offers a unique ride quality, and the modern geometry makes it incredibly capable on rough, steep terrain. The mullet setup strikes a balance between stability and playfulness, making this a great choice for aggressive riders who want a rugged, fun, and confidence-inspiring bike. If you’re after a bike that stands out from the typical carbon and aluminum crowd, the RocketMAX MX is well worth considering.