It took almost two decades for Pace to finally release a trail suspension bike, but it was well worth the wait.
Big 6066 alloy main tubes with a fat internal-headset head tube create a seriously stiff front triangle on the 405 frame.
Additional core strength comes from an innovative welded spine where the lower rocker link penetrates the frame and head tube and extended seat tube gussets.
A box-section keystone locks the curved rear subframe together and both dropouts are replaceable if damaged (or if you fancy a Maxle screw-through upgrade).
New frames come with the RockShox Monarch 3.3 air can as standard but the original DT cans are available as upgrades.
Either way the ‘Free Floater’ linkage design crushes the shock from both ends to create a finely tuned leverage rate and impressively ‘bottomless’ feel. German cartridge bearings last extremely well even in the worst conditions.
It is heavy for its 130mm of travel (7.32lb/3.32kg – over a pound heavier than Pace claim), but the planted, surefooted feel, outstanding traction and belligerent ‘lead from the front’ style means the 405 carries speed superbly – and all at a price where the boutique brands would normally offer a simple swingarm setup.
