What was the name of Doug Bradbury’s bike, cited as the first full-suspension MTB available for purchase?
Answer
Manitou 1
The Manitou 1 is distinguished as the first full-suspension mountain bike that was actually available for purchase, although likely in very limited quantities, beginning around 1979 or 1980. Doug Bradbury is the builder credited with this machine, which took the theoretical groundwork established by earlier patents, like Staley's, and turned it into a tangible, rideable product ready for the nascent market. The Manitou 1 utilized a distinctive linkage-actuated rear suspension system, demonstrating an early commitment to competitive, demanding off-road performance geometry rather than simple cushioning.

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