Submitted by
Gary McGregor
a Weekend Warrior
from England Date Reviewed: July 3, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Kingsdown
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$225.00
Purchased At:
eBay.co.uk
Strengths:
Great Looks and very RARE now in U.K
Weaknesses:
on this one the steerer Tube has been cut to 6" and I need to have New one Original length fitted as wont fit my frame re too short
Similar Products Used:
Dirt Jumper Pro
Bike Setup:
24SEVEN Hardtail "Darkangel"
Bottom Line:
HELP - ALL Suggestions WELCOME
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tom
a Downhiller
from usa Date Reviewed: August 26, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
you
Strengths:
everything there the best in the world better than 888 boxxers anything. i jumped off a 90ft cliff and nose dived and they didnt even bottem out. when i got out of hospital i caryed on rydin hard and there still gd.
Weaknesses:
every thing there crap bottom out off a cerb + hevy
Similar Products Used:
zooms
Bike Setup:
bmx wiv i 26inch on the front and a 14inch on the back
Bottom Line:
WELL I NEVVAAAAAHHHH!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rob ken
a Weekend Warrior
from canada Date Reviewed: April 10, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
all season source for sports
Strengths:
very durable light weight
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
all the dj series
Bike Setup:
kona shred
Bottom Line:
this is a extremly good fork if your into dirtjumping and street riding its the fork for you
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a
from Halifax Date Reviewed: August 22, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
friend
Strengths:
strong, durable fork, great for dirtjump.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
mz comp
Bike Setup:
2003 .243 4130
Bottom Line:
the fork is a very durable fork, its not to heavy, and its perfect for dirtjump
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff Juarez
a Weekend Warrior
from San Antonio Texas, USA Date Reviewed: June 11, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Sun And Ski
Strengths:
great travel, looks, build quality. With the air assist and adjustments i have yet to bottom out the fork (but i dont doo HUGE drops) and im a big guy (6'5 230 lbs)
Weaknesses:
adjustability is kinda difficult and annoying, but hey, if this really bothers you that much, your buying the wrong fork
Bike Setup:
haro 8.3, shimano running gear, Titanium chain, hayes 9 brakes, DJ2 fork, toe clips....list goes on. whatever.
Bottom Line:
Great fork, good deal, if you wine about adjustability, go somewhere else.
This fork is awesome for it's intentions. I use it mainly for Urban and aggressive Cross Country. I am just getting into Dirt Jumping, i will give you my *beginner DJ info when I get more experience with this fork on that terrain*. For those of you looking for a fork that you can throw on your bike, Adjust ONCE and tear it up anywhere and everywhere.. Your a Dirt Jumper, Urban Assaulter, Clydesdale, or even a simpleton who doesn't mind a little extra weight.. this fork is for you. If your a Techno wheenie, gadget guru, need to adjust something every ride, light is right.. I think I'll keep my feet on the ground kind of guy.. stay away, you don't need this fork. Here is the breakdown as I have experienced. I am a 6 year Shop Technician, and have dealt with many forks. I chose this one because I got into the urban scene and needed a beefy no nonsense fork I could thrash. Yes, you have to let the air out, take off the top caps, and insert the long allen key into the fork to adjust rebound. if you want to whine about this, just do it once, and forget it. I have only adjusted mine once and it's been perfect since. If you don't want to, take it to your LBS, they will be happy to do it. Now, I use my fork for the local XC trail and aggressive urban. This is where the Air assist system comes in. for XC, I let the air out, for urban, I air it up to about 20 psi *this is a LOW pressure system, you should never need more than 45 PSI, this helps keep the seals long lasting.
Bottom line. If you want a simple fork, you set and forget, this is for you. If you want to have control over your adjustments all the time, spend the extra cash and get the DJI *External Rebound, 1 side coil, 1 side Air Assist(on some models) some will come both sides air assist with Coil*
Rating - 5 Value because there is nothing better for the price, the air assist system eliminates the need to buy stronger springs, unless you want to of course. It's stiff and strong, comes in 20mm or standard drop outs.
4 overall only because some people will find the lack of external adjustments inhibiting.. in this case take hammer hit face.. or nearest person to you. If you were suckered into this fork without the FULL knowledge you needed in your purchase *ie: has rebound, but wasn't told it was internal* smack the guys you bought it from. Otherwise, you'll be a happy camper
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
james
a Weekend Warrior
from oc, ca Date Reviewed: October 22, 2004
Favorite Trail:
big bear
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
good looking, stiff as no other, stong.
Weaknesses:
not very plush, bottoms out once and a while, weighs like a ton of elephants,average trail fork for the most part, prety good at rockgardens but not the best.
Similar Products Used:
judy tt(sucks/bottoms when you go off a curb), exr comp, dj3, vanillas and floats.
This is a super stiff fork with the body of a Z1 but cheapo internals. I like the air preload. It definitely lends to its adjustablility. But the stock springs are firm to start so you never really need the air assist. This is a big difference from the past where Marzocchi's were notoriously undersprung.
I have Z3 5 inch QR20 fork from 2001 and a bunch of spare Zokes parts lying around from years of tinkering with Marzocchis. I decided to put a second SSV pump in place of a dummy rod it had in it. The results were identical to what the problem is with my new DJII.
The DJII is great with low speed impacts but if you land a jump or at high speeds, the compression damping is WAY too much. You end up with what feels like a rigid fork, even with 5wt oil and the SSV's turned all the way down on both sides. So learning from the Z3 experience, I popped the circlip on the left leg SSV pump and removed the damping core to make it a dummy rod. Adjusted the right leg damping, put in 7 wt golden spectro. Now it's a trail fork. Better high speed response. Not sure why turning both sides all the way down didn't do the trick.
I also removed a spring from the right leg and ran one coil and one air leg. Better adjustability and more plush.
With a little work, this can be a great fork. And you save a bundle versus buying a Z1. Of course you miss out on some of the other options of the Z1 but I've always just needed a rebound damper in my forks. No need for ECC, ETA, EIEIO....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Danny
a Downhiller
from Cincinnati, Ohio Date Reviewed: July 9, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
Atomicbikes in California
Strengths:
Now broken in, my dirt jumper feels like butter. I weigh 150 and dont ride any air in the legs.. I also dont have a fork pump. I have yet to see the fork bottom out. This is plenty of fork for any of you small time hucksters.
Weaknesses:
Marzocchi thought it would be cool to have Dirt Jumper II on one side.. the sticker looks cool, but I think it would be even more hardcore if they put it on both sides. And does anyone know if I can get those white "Bomber" sticker like off of the Z1s? If so let me know.
Similar Products Used:
My old Judy TT is like a pair of 2s next to my DJII.
This fork rocks for the price I paid for it. The air adjustable preload/damping whatever is pretty nifty. If you want to you can lock it out. Its a pretty smooth ride once you break it in and seems to like a little abuse. It's a naughty little fork. Five Flamin Chilis.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex Gabriel
a Weekend Warrior
from montreal,Qc Date Reviewed: May 24, 2004
Favorite Trail:
mount-royal!
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$460.00
Purchased At:
martin swiss crap cycles
Strengths:
absoltely sexy look, myne is setup for my weight, 175 pounds with 30 PSI and the stock springs, bunynhoppin' off a sidewalk, gets onyl 2 " out of travel, everythnig is great about this fork!
Weaknesses:
i dont understand why people diss up on this fork being weak, its strong as hell! sure it has flex front and backworads but no sideways flex at all! wut? do u really except every other fork to have no flex? every fork should have flex, with no flex, the fork would break, and it really aint that heavy, if u think it is then its time for u to go ryde outside and go to thegym and pump iron, if i can bunyjop my 40 pound hardtail 3 feet high how high cna u bunyhop yur 45 pound DH bike?
Similar Products Used:
foxfloat,sherman breakout, DJ1( similar but not worth the extra$$ for the roebound knob)
buy this fork, if u ryde urban/DJ/ freeride, u will never regret this purchase, if u use it properly, this
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tire snag
a Weekend Warrior
from nyc Date Reviewed: May 21, 2004
Favorite Trail:
all of nyc
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
came with my specialized bighit comp 03
Strengths:
Strong, stiff, durable, i did not bottom it at all. thru axle makes fork super stiff.
Weaknesses:
adustubility is sub-par. low sensitivity. fork seams to sleep when riding trough rocks and root gardens. not a big deal though cause its not that bad. its a dirt jumpin fork anyway.
Similar Products Used:
03 z1, 03 super t, 03 boxxer.
Bike Setup:
03 bighit comp. stock except pedals, and seat.
Bottom Line:
i have abused this fork for a full year-doing drops 6 ft+, dirt jumping, free riding and street riding- and i have not had any problems with the dj2. the adjustability is sub-par but does not affect the peformance of the fork. i never had to service the fork, nothing broke, the qr20 bolts did not strip-dont over tighten and they wont strip i guess... good all round fork. i would recomend this fork to any one who rides street or dirt jumps. dont buy if you gonna freeride or down hill. get z's or for freeriding. they have better adjustment and have good sensitivity.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Downhiller
from Vic,B.C,Canada Date Reviewed: May 5, 2004
Favorite Trail:
hartland,mt. work
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
The stanctions,pretty plush with right psi,seemingly bottomproof,smooth urban/dj/fr fork
Weaknesses:
On a FS,the fork doesent seem to start pressing down so easily,and when you drop anything it hammers your wrists a lil before it starts to move down for some reason
Similar Products Used:
DJ 3,RS Boxxer,Judy TT,Exr;race;pro;comp,and (who hasnt) rigid
Bike Setup:
03 DeVinci guzzler w. fox vanilla r and 03 dj 2s w. hayes hfx 8 dh;8",and weirwolf 2.5";26" tires
Bottom Line:
Nice fork,what can I say,ive had no real issues with it yet,allthough the part where it feels rigid for a second before compressing on my guzzler is sort of awkward/wierd
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James
a Weekend Warrior
from Melbourne, Australia Date Reviewed: April 11, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Eildon
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Brunswick Street Cycles
Strengths:
Strong castings, thick stanchion tubing, wicked crown. When maintained, performs well
Weaknesses:
Not entirely plush travel. Weight.
Similar Products Used:
No other DJ/All Mountain forks
Bike Setup:
DaBomb XLR8, DJII's, SRAM Drivetrain.
Bottom Line:
It is a great fork, it does what it was designed for, however it's no where near a Fox Vanilla. It was my first all mountain fork, it looked sweet and had a few features that i knew i need, and none i didn't.
If you want a Marzocchi fork for jumping or racing...then this i good, but if u want more, u'll need to invest a little more!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nathan
a Weekend Warrior
from Penetang, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: April 5, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Plush, Seems Bottomless, Stiff
Compared to Dj3...
better paint QR20 more adjustability
Weaknesses:
none so far... maybe weight...
Similar Products Used:
Wal-Mart suspension
Bike Setup:
Jamis Eureka 03
Bottom Line:
This fork came stock on my 03 Jamis Eureka that I bought a few weeks ago. For the price paid (1100.00 CAN) I was amazed to get a DirtJumper2.
Very impressive fork!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tyler
a Downhiller
from reno Date Reviewed: April 2, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
seirra cyclesmith
Strengths:
very strong and durable
Weaknesses:
the screws and caps on the bottom of the fork that holds the hub on snapped and Marzocchi had no problem replacing them. do not tighten these bolts past like 6 newtons (which is nothin at all, just a turn of the wrist)
Similar Products Used:
bombers
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi dirtjumper II on a bighit comp.
Bottom Line:
good, fork, i'll write another review once i have broken it in a little more, but other wise, just watch how much u tighten the screws!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
doug brummett
a Weekend Warrior
from Santa Cruz, CA Date Reviewed: March 18, 2004
Favorite Trail:
anything in UCSC
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
It's stiff, looks tough, has nice plush feel at low speeds and low pressures.
Weaknesses:
Doesn't lend well to xc/dh. It really stacks up in washboard sections, feeling almost as bad as rigid. Bolts that hold the lowers on stripped.
Similar Products Used:
2003 Fox RLC vanilla, 2001 Z1, various other marzocchi and rockshox...
Bike Setup:
2003 Santa Cruz Chameleon, xt build, swap betweenxc and freeride wheelsets depending on my mood
Bottom Line:
This fork is great out at the jumps and even better doing big drops. The way that the air assist ramps up is suited perfectly for those applications.
The new QR-20 system seemed a bit sketchy at first, but has never caused me any problems.
My biggest gripe is that the first time I serviced the fork the aluminum bolts that hold the lowers on stripped. I have over 7 years as a paid shop mechanic and a degree in engineering. As soon as I flipped the fork over I knew the 6mm internal hex would give me troubles. Even being careful one of them stripped before I could get it unbound. Out came the vise-grips and I was able to service the fork. Marzocchi was kind enough to comp me a new set of bolts, this time they were the 12mm external hex that the Z1's have. They should hold out better.
Overall I think the fork is good. I ride everything from the dirt, urban, trials, freeride, and race dh a couple times a year. My only trail complaint is that the fork doesn't handle washboard, goats head rock feilds, or anything that is very rough. It kind of stacks and doesn't recover fast enough. It seems to do a bit better with lighter oil (2.5 or 5wt). But it still doesn't eliminate it. The end effect is that my arms and hands have to make up for what the shock isn't. Can't say that the fork claims to be up to this kind of abuse, so I can't really dock any points.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Cross Country Rider
from Winchester, VA, USA Date Reviewed: February 19, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
Good amount of adjustability, accepts a large tire which helps soak up some of the nasty terrain here in VA. It's easily serviceable and maintainable
Weaknesses:
Though it's adjustable, it's hard to get the full travel out of it if you're a lighter rider. I'm 5'6" and about 145 (sorry big fellas) and I've had to drop the air pressure down to about 5PSI just to get near bottoming out on big drops...maybe that's a good thing for the bigger guys though..
Similar Products Used:
Just got back into MTB about 6-8 months ago...last thing would've been something RockShox
Bike Setup:
Jamis Komodo with XT components and Hayes Mech brakes
Bottom Line:
Overall, it's a great fork. It's beefy and durable, handles the big rocky terrain of VA's mtns very well provided you use good tires, and can be adjusted with relative ease. This particular one has the standard drop-out but I just bought one for the new build that's the QR20 drop-out so we'll have to see how that one goes. This guy is travelling with me to AZ in a few weeks for some desert riding so I'll see how it performs out there and maybe update my review after that. Generally though, Marzocchi parts are money well spent.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Joseph Morrissey III
a Racer
from Beverly Farms Massachusetts Date Reviewed: January 15, 2004
Favorite Trail:
The Red Dot
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Gearworks Cyclery Leominster Ma
Strengths:
Serviceability!!!! Read on and youll find out THIS IS THE HYUNDAI OF FORKS
Weaknesses:
The Stanchion on the left cracked at the 6 o'clock position, VERY FLEXY at the crown, Rode like a bowl of oatmeal...only after Xtra heavy springs and air assist did it feel like it WAS safe for X-country......What RETARDED MONKEY DESIGNED THE "anything but" QUICK RELEASE ON THE 2002? 8 SEAL REPLACEMENTS AND 3 COMPLETE REBUILDS!!! THE 2003 CROWN IS STILL FLEXY...SAFE ENUFF FOR THE PIZZA FACED PAPERBOY TO JUMP OFFA CURBS WITH. BUY IT IF YOU DONT WANT TO RIDE IT! AND ENJOY REBUILDING FORKS AND NOT WINNING!
Similar Products Used:
HANNEBRINK ( VERY GOOD STUFF!), OLDER MR.T ( AWWWSOME) ROCKSHOX JUDY XL ( THE BOMB BACK IN THE DAY)
Bike Setup:
2002 KONA ROAST
Bottom Line:
DONT WASTE YOUR MONEY OR YOUR TIME! IF YOUR A BIG GUY AND YOU RIDE HARD YOUR MONEY WILL BE BETTER SPENT ELSEWERE!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Downhiller
from Adelaide, South Australia Date Reviewed: November 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Mach 2
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
JT Cycles
Strengths:
Extra strong- these forks are probably the strongest type of fork around. Really good for freeriding. I have mine set up reasonably doft and they are really plush for downhill, stairs etc. Air assist is a nice idea, as it allows you to give a varied preload adjustment, despit not being overly easy to get changed. When used in conjunction with the preload knob, though, it is a good design.
Weaknesses:
Heavy- these forks, despite being very strong are let down by their weight. If you are after a freeride fork then go with some 04 Z150 forks. The rebound adjustment is too hard to adjust. I haven't had mine adjusted yet, as I can't be bothered doing it myself incase a break something. The quick release axle system works well. But make sure you don't strip the quick release things. They cost $80 each Australian. The forks also seem to bottom out very easily, although I haven't had the air assist changed for a while.
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi Bomber EXR
Bike Setup:
Specialized Bighit Comp, dmr v8's, da bomb bars, truvativ gigapipe and chain device, odi grips. Rest is standard.
Bottom Line:
If you are after a sick dirtjump fork, or where weight isn't an issue, get these forks, or even the DJ3 as the only difference is the rrebound which I havn't even used. A good extra strong fork, with reasonable adjustment.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt
a
from canada Date Reviewed: November 9, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$5.00
Purchased At:
calgary
Strengths:
Stiff
Weaknesses:
Not much improvement from the dj3..hard to get setting to what I want
Similar Products Used:
marzochi
Bottom Line:
I havent had at all much trouble with this fork. There isnt alot of differance between the dj2-3 so im slightly disappointed. It handles drops fine but is set a little high. Sort of weird howa perfor shaermans than the dirt jumper series for dirt jumping.. I wouldnt recommand the dj2 but probably either the 3 or 1 or just a plain old sherman.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nate
a Weekend Warrior
from Jax, Fl.. USA Date Reviewed: October 8, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Big Stantions, beefy crown.
Weaknesses:
A little stiff but, LOL I came from a 7" Jr. T.
Similar Products Used:
02 7" Jr. T
Bike Setup:
04 .243 frame, Profile Crank, Evil SRS, D321 Rear, Doublewide Front both on Hope Bulbs, Hope DH4 brakes, Intense EX 909 2.5 tires.
Bottom Line:
Great fork for Urban with light trials riding. It's OK on the trail, but I'm not a trail rider. Beefy looking. I'de buy another if I had to, or maybe try a DJ1....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jvd
a Downhiller
from Victoria, BC Date Reviewed: September 30, 2003
Favorite Trail:
sofa king
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
It's got big stantions, good amount of travel air assist nice feature
Weaknesses:
The adjustments really suck. I haven't noticed much difference after adjusting the rebound. And everytime you adjust rebound, you have to let the air out, take off the top caps, attempt to adjust the rebound, then retighten the topcaps, and then re-pump your air assist. And then when it's not right, you have to go through the whole process.
Similar Products Used:
Older z-1s and z-2s.
Bike Setup:
Minuteman
Bottom Line:
Don't buy this fork. The adjustments suck so much, it's not worth it. Get something that has external rebound...either the DJ1 or a z1. I wish I would have done that; it would have been easily worth the extra money. Booooooooooooo.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Williams
a Cross Country Rider
from Caerphilly, Wales Date Reviewed: September 27, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Glyncorwg
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Wades Cycles
Strengths:
Very stiff, smooth, paintjob is cool and just really solid!!
Weaknesses:
Internal rebound adj. is a crap idea, a real pain to fiddle with and get right, tyre clearance.
Similar Products Used:
03 Z1 Freerides, Marathons, Vanillas and Floats.
Bike Setup:
Orange Airo, DJ2, Mini's, Truvativ cranks, just a real hardcore trail setup.
Bottom Line:
I've only been riding these forks for about a week and I don't think that the forks have bedded in fully yet. They are really stiff and are starting to feel smooth. They are not as smooth as my Z1 Freerides were but I think they will be soon. The internal rebound adjustment is not a good idea, a real pain to get right, I only paid £200 for these mind which is £55 off so I'm very happy.
Bottom line, a very nice fork which is smooth and stiff, just a bit of a pain to get perfect. Five for value but only 4 overall coz of the rebound.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Hirsch
a Weekend Warrior
from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: September 23, 2003
Favorite Trail:
street
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Tommy and Lefevbes
Strengths:
The look, paintjob, QR20 Pro, stiffness, plushness...
Weaknesses:
little tire clearance. It only fits a 2.5" tire MAX
Similar Products Used:
2001 Marzocchi Z5 OEM, 2003 Dirt Jumper 3
Bike Setup:
Norco Rampage
Bottom Line:
the fork is great. It is extremely plush and very stiff. I got the fork for 350 canadian NEW which is awesome. The dirt jumper 3 is similar except it doesnt have the awesome Matte black paint on it and no adjustments except preload. Most people say "get the DJ3 cause its cheaper" well, I got mine for an amazing price which was actually CHEAPER than a new DJ3
I recommend this to anyone. DJ2's rock.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marko Haka
a Weekend Warrior
from Finland Date Reviewed: August 20, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Sturdy, good technology, price.
Weaknesses:
Hassle to adjust.
Similar Products Used:
RS Judy XC, Headshox Fatty D
Bike Setup:
DaBomb CR8, DJ2, DaBomb post, stem, bar, Deore/XT mix, Mavic F219Disc wheels.
Bottom Line:
Can the damping get any better?
At the parking lot the fork feels mushy, moves alot and is like it was ready to bottom anytime. Take of at pleasant cruising speed, the fork works just as plushly as it demonstrated, perfectly rounding off any hits and bumbs. Works like a tought, so much that you forget it. Atleast my fork makes a "klok" sound when it moves, and listening to that sound gives you an illusion that the fork might be bit stiff at the top, but ignore the sound and feel it up, it is not. More speed, and wham! It is as if the fork was somehow swapped, it feels firm and predictable and is nowhere near about to bottom. Instead it persistantly keeps that perfect rounding off going on. All I can throw at it, like 4 feet drops (I'm learning, I'm learning :) ) to flat, and I never felt a hint of bottoming.
The DJ2 specific "internal adjustment" does suck. I think that should be a DJ3 feature. There will allways be the hassle to open the fork and fish with the adjuster stick for the dial. Is the privilidge to fish worth the 50$ in price (50$ atleast here in Finland)? If you have found the Marzocchi factory rebound allways good, you should probably go with the non-adjustable DJ3. If you are of the "adjusting" sort, the DJ1 or Z1 is for you. Get the DJ2 if you think the rebound sucks but you want to save the extra of DJ1.
Also, the airassist is a bit of a hassel, atleast if you dont own a pump. Besides, you cant put much anything in if you want the fork to have SAG and retain its sensitivity at the top (start of the travel). For comparison, I'm about 160lb.
The customer support in Finland is given to the Finnish importer, which did reply to my questions swiftly and professionally.
Anyways, this is easilly the best fork I've had. And I think it's a great fork. The SSV offers exellent functioning right from the cheapest MXC model up. Also, Marzocchi has good prizing and the forks look good (viewers oppinion...). Not to forget the sturdy design of the DJ/Z1 line.
I chipped one flaming chili from the value because of the "internal adjuster", for me the DJ3 would be the value king.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Downhiller
from Kelowna Date Reviewed: August 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Kerplop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$345.00
Strengths:
Great no flex....havent bottomed out yet off jumps with 21 ft gaps
Weaknesses:
The 9mm drop outs made my axel fall out once but maybe it wasnt tightened:S
Similar Products Used:
2003 DJ 3
Bike Setup:
2003 Devinci Guzzler 6' in back
Bottom Line:
Great Fork! go out and get one if you areinto street riding and dirt jumping
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Will
a
from Vergennes, VT, USA Date Reviewed: August 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
A-line, Dirt Merchant, Concrete Jungle
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$330.00
Purchased At:
Earls Cyclery
Strengths:
I love this fork. Its great for jumping, drops, urban, etc. I've taken 7 footers didnt bottom out. Smooth, comfortable.
Weaknesses:
Could be to stiff for anything but jumping, drops, and urban, thats why its called DJ. Not adjustable like it says. Its really expensive, just get DJ 3.
Great for jumping and freestyle, but might as well get DJ 3, cheeper. If your looking for a more all-around fok definatly marzocchi Z.1.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jeff
a Downhiller
from victoria bc canada Date Reviewed: July 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
sofa king
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
riders (the worst bike ever)
Strengths:
very stiff, nice feeling travel, looks dope!
Weaknesses:
not adjustable like the manual says, does bottom easier than i would like but im selling it.
Similar Products Used:
Z.1 FR, manitou black elite.
Bike Setup:
giant ac1, all shimano with discs and a POS rock shox pro deluxe.
Bottom Line:
great fork for dirt jumping, couldn't be beat there. little heavy for a fork with air assist but hella strong. buy it for the money but et the QR 20 option for added stiffnes. shoulg get 4.5 chillies but i cant do that!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dirteater.com
a Weekend Warrior
from St Cloud, MN Date Reviewed: June 23, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Auction
Strengths:
Very stiff, 32mm stancions, QR20 is nice and rigid.
Weaknesses:
Narrow tire clearance, tops out on small bumps, cheap cable guide, Air preload doesn't work as manual describes.
Similar Products Used:
'01 Z5
Bike Setup:
cove gspot dj2
Bottom Line:
A nice attempt by marzocchi to build a beefier dirt jumper, but leaves alot to be desired. I know for a fact others have the top out problems and if you add the recommended 40psi for riders ~185lbs, it will make the fork rigid. The manual states you should turn down rebound if it is topping out, I tried that and the problem remains.
Annoyances aside, this is still a super tough fork and will handle alot of abuse. Rebound adjustment is like sex in the dark, just takes a little practice and alot of feeling around before it slips into the hole, then you are free to work it with your tool as your wish.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Downhiller
from Marin, CA Date Reviewed: June 20, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Christmas Tree Hill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Lee's Cyclery, Fort Collins, CO
Strengths:
This fork has added the right amount of beef to my setup.
Weaknesses:
drop outs
Similar Products Used:
2002 Dirt Jumper, Psylo, white brothers
Bike Setup:
2003 Bighit comp, king steel headset, XTR front and rear, the rest is stock
Bottom Line:
For the price this fork allows you the ability to take your riding level anywhere you want. This fork has added a lot of confidence to my riding, and allowed me to take that next step. I dislike the weight on the up hills, and enjoy it on the downhills. It eats anything I put infront of it, and with such an easy external preload adjustment, I can quickly adjust for the trail. I also think it looks cool.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lauren Locke
a
from Bellevue, WA, USA Date Reviewed: June 13, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Eastgate park
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$360.00
Purchased At:
With my bike
Strengths:
Good, quality travel we all love Marzocchi for. Crown was a slight improvement over the 2002's.
Weaknesses:
I did a few drop to flats (7 footers) and the fork bent out and to the front. My KING headset wouldn't work and now i have to buy a Jr.T
Similar Products Used:
2002 EXR, 2002 Boxxer World Cup, 2003 Super T
Bike Setup:
Big hit, Jr.T, King Headsetm, Thomson Seatpost, Kujo 2.3x24 and a 2.5 WC intense race edition.
Bottom Line:
BUY IT IF YOU DIRT JUMP. DON'T EXPECT IT TO JUST BE A 5" TRAVEL FORK. BUY IF YOU DO SOME URBAN. COOL.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
stanley
a Downhiller
from singapore Date Reviewed: May 21, 2003
I used to ride my stab primo for freeriding n dh.in singapore theres def no mountains to try so i do it in indonesia & malaysia on those heavy jungle mountains.i recently went back to dirt jumping & urban assault.so i built my ultimate machine for the assault.tried many big jumps and massive trial drop offs on the DJ2,it doesn't give a god damn problem.the problem only lies on the sound emitting out of the axle, not the brakes definitely cos i investigate it.i usally does a 15 feet jumps & 10 feet drop offs but please man! it still doesn't give a damn problem.the problem with riders breaking their dj2 is that they don't hav any god damn skill in jumping.maybe they always land in an endo position.haha!!!let me tell u something trash up riders,the forks limitation is only cracking and bending in very extreme jumping.save ur crap and don't spoil the image of marzocchi.for the rest of all those skilled and newbies...cheers!!!it ain't so hard to break the fork.enjoy riding with the skill of a good jumpers.dont be like those trash riders who doesn't even know how to land well.a tip for u guys...planes land on their rear not the front.what happen if a plane lands its front?i believe u know what will happen.bye!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Quentin
a Downhiller
from Edmonton, Alberta. Canada Date Reviewed: May 13, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Whitemud Creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Klonike Cycle, Edmonton
Strengths:
Stiff, clean lines, no V-brake bosses
Weaknesses:
How the f%$#@ do you change the rebound? The tool that comes with it doesn't seem to fit, and it feels a little loose at the top 2mm of travel, likes to squeak and top out on washboard.
Similar Products Used:
Psylo xc
Bike Setup:
2002 DMR Trailstar
Bottom Line:
I'd like it more if the manual had details on how much oil it's supposed to have in it, it seems to hold up really well under punishment.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
miha m
a Downhiller
from lj Date Reviewed: May 7, 2003
2002 kona scab kickass-cromo-hardtail with hayes,continental, shimano.. upgrades
Bottom Line:
I was looking for an extra stiff 110-130 fork with normal dropouts, that could take the edge of anything I ride or crash trough, and I belive I have found it. I ussed to think I'd newer again buy a marzocchi due to flexiness and lack of pl. adjustability of my z1 , which I wrecked in about 8 months. This fork is different in all aspects. A guy below me has posted reviews on all marzz. products aldo he newer ussed to ride all of them. I can understand his anger; quality control at marzzoshi is poor as in all italian products (except ferarri), the xc and fr and dj forks were more or less the same ( same design, same materials...), there was more amphesis on looks than on function, no reliability..... if you'd use more italian products you'd expect that. But if you are ussed to service your own geere, you will find this fork eccelent in all aspects: great in air- dropoffs,doubles.., with some oil level, viscosity adjustments great for basic dh.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Muuqi Maxwell
a
from Ashland Date Reviewed: April 16, 2003
Favorite Trail:
rythem sections
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
They're stiff...
Weaknesses:
I've been riding Marzocchis for over two years now, I started out on a Z5, which came on my 2002 P.3, I broke that, and Marzocchi sent me a 2002 dirt jumper two, under warrenty. Two monthes or so later, I snapped that fork in half on the stancions, and when I had my LBS send it back to Marzocchi, they said that it wasn't under warrenty because I was using the product in ways that it wasn't ment to be used. Soo dirt jumpin on a dirt jumper isn't allowed? I also ride street and park, but my main style is dirt jumping. I paid 200 for a new DJ 2, which I had for only half a year, when the upper stancion on the right side, near the crown split, spewing oil everywhere. My LBS called Marzocchi again and was told that it'd be under warrenty and that they could either fix it for free (rebuild), or send me a 2003 DJ 1 for 280. I just bought a new car, so I'm pinching pennies, and I asked them to fix it for me. So yesterday they called back the shop and said that it's not going to be under warrenty, because the fork has been "abused". When I called the guy to ask him what the deal was, his words were, "well the fork has dings on it, it has obviously been trashed". I said so you're not warrentying it because it has dings on it? I told him that I dirt jump, as the name on the fork suggests, and I asked him if the forks were actually made for DIRT JUMPING, or if that was just a name. His reply was "I dirt jump too, and I must weigh at least 250 pounds, and I don't break any forks" This kids name was Chad. Soo then I said "So you arn't warrentying my fork because I've been using it for it's intended purpose? And he said "you can argue with me all you want, but the bottom line is it's not going to be warrentied". This is the 3rd fork I've broken, the 1st one was warrentied, the second one I had to pay for, and now this one I have to pay for also. I have at least 6 friends here in Ashland who have broken either z5s or dirt jumpers and all of them have had their fork warrentied. Basically, Marzocchi has TERRIBLE customer service, they won't listen to how their forks fault and break, and they won't warrenty my dirt jumper 2, after I broke it dirt jumping. What kind of company is this? I used to love their forks, but I think that from now on I'm going to take my business elsewhere, maybe Manitou with the new Sherman, or Fox. I suggest that if you're considering a dirt jumper fork, or any marzocchi for that matter, I'd do the same. A friend of mine rides a Fox vanilla 125 and was having problems and he called Fox and they helped him right out.
Don't buy marzocchi, they have terrible service and don't care about their customers.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Benoit Landry
a Weekend Warrior
from Ottawa, Ontario,Canada Date Reviewed: March 17, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$335.00
Purchased At:
Power Bikes & Boards
Strengths:
Big, strong, minimal front-to-back flex while braking, braod damping adjustment range. Actually has 130mm of travel (measured). Air assist allows for a wide preload/spring stiffness range.
Weaknesses:
Super heavy for a single crown, at 6 pounds. when you think that a boxxer weighs a bit under 7 pounds, makes you wonder. No internal rebound adjustment. Factory springs are too firm. with the air assist they could've provided lighter springs; the air pressure can compensate for that... No boots!!!
Similar Products Used:
Roxkshox Judy XC, Marzocchi Z.5, RST Zeta
Bike Setup:
2001 K2 Flyin' Monkey hardtail with sun double wides, formula hubs and deore drivetrain.. 38 lbs
Bottom Line:
I wanted to upgrade from a 100mm (actually, 92mm in practice) XC fork, and I think this one does the trick. torsional and front-to-back stiffness are great, and the damping range is a lot better. with zero air pressure the springs feel right for me (150lbs), but I've only been screwing around obstacles with the bike. I'll see if the trails require more spring resistance. I'm giving 4 chilies because of the lack of protective boots, as the springs are likely right for an average 170-180lb rider.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rob cole
a Downhiller
from London Date Reviewed: March 5, 2003
Favorite Trail:
sandy heath
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$199.00
Purchased At:
Wades Cycles
Strengths:
Tough and chunky - 32mm stanchions and oversized crown Simple adjustment - air assist No noticeable flexure Neat fender attachment feature Great value!
Weaknesses:
None!!
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi Z-1 Drop Off Rockshox Judy XC
Bike Setup:
DMR Rhythm 24" frame Sun Rhyno Lite on Hope hubs FSA Smack Daddy bmx crank DMR wingbars and bmx stem blah blah....
Bottom Line:
I had a 2001 Z-1 Drop Off fork which was ok for a while, then the bushings went slack and it became a flexy noodle fork, so bad I had to take off the front disc brake...
the Z-1 was too long for my new DMR Rhythm dirt jumping frame, DMR suggest using 110mm, the 130mm was ok but a little long so I looked around, and got a nice DJ2 for Stirling £199 (whatever that is in dollars) from Wades Cycles (those guys with the porno adverts in Dirt bike mag)
The fork was easy to fit, I always get nervous about cutting steerer tubes down, but it went ok. The fork is easy to adjust, you get a long metal allen key so you can remove the top caps and tweak the rebound damping. The only external adjustment is air assist, you use a shock pump to put a small amount of pressure into the top of the fork, this ramps up compression damping and stops the fork blowing through its travel so quick..
I didn't own the air pump and so rode about without any air in the forks, they felt really plush and soft. I tried adding some air at a local bike shop, I put in 50-60psi which made the fork totally rigid!!
I removed some air, down to about 10-15psi, it felt better but still ramped up real quick. I let all the air out after going to my local skatepark and not liking the way the fork rode, going over a wooden launch box I didn't feel balanced taking off (I guess you get used to suspension forks that are plush)
The fork has been on my bike for about 5 months, nothing much to say but hassle-free, silently taking all the drops and jumps without complaining. They don't creak or flex like my old Z-1, so I'm happy.
The nicest thing is that if you remove the decals, you are left with a totally matt black fork, which looks dope. the fender mount is an inspired choice, it lets you bolt the Acerbis (MX) fender into the underside of the crown, no more faffing about lock-rods, fender mounts, etc. The fender is cheap at £18 (THE sell for £25 in the UK), seems tough (you can bend it all the way back without problem) and also fits my 2003 Super T Pro fork so I'm happy.
In hindsight maybe if I had more $$$ I would have got the DJ1 with better damping and QR20PRO axle, but it was another £70 and I haven't had any flex from the QR axle, or any problems with damping, so I'm 100% happy..
The DJ2 is highly recommended, usual high quality construction from Marzocchi, quality sealing, chunky fork - makes the Rockshox Psylo look anorexic in comparison
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Junebug
a Downhiller
from Fort Bragg,NC United States of America Date Reviewed: March 4, 2003
Favorite Trail:
slalom,downhill,urban
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
www.franklinstreetcycles.com
Bike Setup:
Specialized BigHit comp Mrp chain guide. Truvativ cranks with what ever sized chain ring I feel like running. Wellgo downhill pedals Marzocchi Super-T Heavy weight springs 5th element Maxxis Mobster tires Intense grips.
Bottom Line:
Well I reviewed this fork earlier. I do not know why it has given me the issues it has but it has. I do not know how you do "7-8 foot drops" with out bottoming this thing out. If anyone would like to see a pic of me bottoming this fork out on a 7 foot drop to transition just e-mail me. I only weigh 163lbs by the way. I just ride the pi$$ out of my bike. I recently swapped this fork out with a Super-t. I have had no problems with it so far. I stand by what I said earlier. This fork sucks. You do not have to be a mechanic to figure that out. As far as fine tuning goes, I race downhill. I must be able to fine tune all of my bike. I guarantee if you go to a downhill race you will not see one of these. Unless you look at the slalom/fourcross bikes, but most of these guys are to serious for this fork. Look a fork that sells at this pricepoint is not designed for serious racing. The only reason that I even own one is because it came on a bike that I bought for the frame.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug Brummett
a Weekend Warrior
from Santa Cruz, CA Date Reviewed: March 4, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anything in Santa Cruz
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
32mm stancions, 20mm thru axle available, looks tuff, progressive travel with air assist
Weaknesses:
Haven't found any yet as far as function. Weight is a bit more than the claimed 4.5lb. Probably closer to 5.5lb.
Similar Products Used:
Judy dh, judy dho, marzocchi z1
Bike Setup:
I have run this fork on two of my bikes now, a free ride/ slalom ht and an intense uzzi sl
Bottom Line:
For a basic and inexpensive fork I am impressed with the performance of this fork. At 6'3" and 200lb I put a lot of wear onto my forks. These have been dirt jumped, ridden xc, and taken on full urban assaults. All tasks have been cleaned with flying colors.
I have been able to get full travel out of the fork off of large drops to flat (5-7ft is what most of these consisted of). I however have not felt the fork bottom out, something that was quite apparent on the older Z1 I had been riding. I think this can be attributed to the air assist. I usually put about 5lb pressure in one side and leave the other at zero. The fork came stock from Marzocchi with heavy springs as per my request. I can only guess that the previous reviewer has too light of springs, blown seals, or just isn't using the air assist. Any one of the previous might explain the complaints. Personally, as a mechanic with over seven years of experience, I have found these forks to be very strong and unlikely to bottom out.
I run the 20mm axle. I am not overly enthusiastic about the qr20 system. I would rather have an allen head to lock it down with and have to remove the axle to release the wheel. The qr20 just seams like unecessary complication to the dropout. It is at least better than the original qr20 system. Mechanical complaint asside the fork is extremely stiff laterally and torsionally with this 20mm system. The wheel goes exactly where it is aimed no matter what kind of ruts, rocks, or logs are in the way.
I have not had to adjust the rebound damping in the fork. The stock setting works well for my weight and riding preferences. It is however easy to adjust with the supplied allen wrench and a few minutes to remove the top caps. Innitial setup of the rebound could be a pain if you are picky in this department. Once set though the fork is great. If you like to tinker with the rebound, preload, and compression while out riding then this fork will most likely not be the one for you. If you like to set it and then forget it and ride then this fork will be right up your alley.
The travel itself, it is supper plush. It is without a doubt the smoothest fork I have ridden. I really enjoyed my Z1's (1999), but these are like butter. No stiction anywhere in the stroke.
My overall impression is very high as the rating indicates. Value rating is also high. I got mine employee purchase and there isn't anything in the price range that comes close to the marzocchi quality. I would buy another without hesitation. Highly recommend.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Junebug
a Downhiller
from Fort Bragg,NC United States of America Date Reviewed: February 27, 2003
Favorite Trail:
I do not have one
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
www.franklinstreetcycles.com
Strengths:
Large beefy looking crown. 32mm stanchions are rigid.
Weaknesses:
No adjustability!!! Do not be misled. This is nothing but Marzocchi's answer to the Judy TT made by Rockshox. The dampening is extremely stiff right up to the part were it bottoms out like a Moose turd on the cold tundra. Looks stupid stickers peel off if you look at them to hard. Lack of fine tuning. I hate this fork. I do not know how well it will do for dirtjumping. I imagine it will bottom out and brake my wrists if I do.
$ 345.00
Overall Rating:
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