Submitted by
Jon
a Weekend Warrior
from Waterloo Ontario Date Reviewed: May 28, 2003
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
Bits and Bikes Guelph
Strengths:
Haven't had any problems. I am 190 and I hardly ever bottom it out. It is light for the riding it can take
Weaknesses:
adjusting air is touchy, but just takes some getting used to
Similar Products Used:
I was rigid untill this fork
Bike Setup:
2001 Norco Nitro, removed front disk to save on $$$, replaced bb with splined, cranks with truvativ hussfelt DH and pedals with Kona Jacks**ts
Bottom Line:
I do way more than xc on this bike and the fork hasn't let me down yet. I am super impressed with the fork for the value, and the only reason I will replace it is because I am looking for another inch of travel.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rich
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: April 25, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Race Track
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$180.00
Purchased At:
Mission Cyclery
Strengths:
Stiff, easy to adjust air pressure, looks tough.
Weaknesses:
Unrelenting seals, only responds to big hits (duh, it's an air fork, I know!)
I suppose this would make a good racing fork since it's very stiff and one could inflate it with enough air to just take care of the big hits. However, I always thought Bombers were ultra plush forks. Not so, I guess, with their air forks. Too much air, and the forks only take the big stuff. Too little air, and, although it feels smoother initially, it will bottom-out in the real world. To keep this short, this is an inexpensive fork with low-quality travel and high-quality stiffness and build. Also notable is the fact that they hold their air pretty good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Z Z
a Weekend Warrior
from San Jose Date Reviewed: November 7, 2002
hard to adjust rebound (change viscosity of oil). weight, but who cares.
Similar Products Used:
RST
Bike Setup:
KHS Pro ST, Mavic 317, Avid Mech, stock drivetrain
Bottom Line:
This is, in my opinion, the Maytag of forks. It does everything well, but does not excel in any one area. It does not have the latest bells and whistles nor the best looks. It just faithfully performs its duties EVERYTIME you ask it to. However, to some (at least me), this exceptional level of reliability and performance is more important than any new technology out there. After 2 years of riding, the fork still feels new despite the fact that the only maintainance I do is changing oil once per year and wipe away the dirt/mud from the sliders after each ride. If you are a tech freak or weight wienie, then this probably is not the fork for you. However, if you plan to spend more time in the mountains than in the shop, then this one is it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Corner Brook Newfoundland Canada Date Reviewed: October 11, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Anything new
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Strong, fairly simple shock to adjust trough air pressure.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
RST 281
Bike Setup:
Norco Nitro and fireball frames, lx shifters and drive, xt v-brakes
Bottom Line:
Solid well built shock. It is a smooth shock and remains that way through dirt and grime. Usually have to check air pressure once or twice a season and silicone the seals to keep things smooth at the sliders. Havn't had to do any internal maintanance except change the internal oil which was very simple to complete. I did move back to a lighter weight oil as I am a light rider. Great shock for the price. Dependable and handles the rough stuff very well. Worth the money to invest in a low pressure fork pump.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Charlie Devine
a Cross Country Rider
from Oak Ridge TN USA Date Reviewed: March 19, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Haw Ridge
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$240.00
Purchased At:
Nantahala Outdoor Center
Strengths:
smooooth like butah. air spring is easy to adjust looks so so good weighs next to nothing
Weaknesses:
realy bad brake boss flex with XTR V brakes rebound damping adjustment is internal
Similar Products Used:
Manitou with elastimers then springs; no damping
Bike Setup:
Al hardtail, Litespeed Ti handlebar, XTR Integrated controls 8 speed
Bottom Line:
This fork has done wonders for my confidence. I ride over log-pile-obstacles as if they were mounds of dirt. I fly over sharp, jagged washboard rocks in complete control. I sit slightly above the seat and let the front shock absorb bumps that hit the rear wheal by letting the bike pivot at the SPD pedals.
This is how you adjust the air pressure. Go to AutoZone and get a pack of 4 metal valve stem extenders(you are only going to need 2 of them.) While you are there get a tire pressure guage; the kind that has a big rotary dial; not a cheapy made-in-China one, but a good, big $8 made-in-USA model. It goes from 0-60 PSI. Simply unscrew the black caps. Screw the extenders on. Now air the fork with your trusted floor pump. Give it about ten punds extra (floor pump guage might not be accurate). Remove floor pump and press that pressure gauge onto the extender. Every time you remove and then reapply the gauge the pressure will drop by one pound. Keep doing this until you have exactly, to-the-pound the pressure you want. While you are at it you might want to take a 36 (I think) mm socket and make sure the valve assembly is on tight. If I remember right, the torque-spec. is 12 neuton-meters. (Marzocchi web site says). One of mine was just finger tight. Removing your pump or valve stem extender can loosen it; I hear.
Five steaming turds for value because it is probably just as good as Marzo's best fork.
Another five overall even though I have yet to adjust the rebound(want to slow it down). This is done by sticking a very long 6mm(I think) allen wrench down into the oil bath and turning something clockwise. I am still waiting for the Snap On man to get me one. By the way, Marzo's web site says that oil should be 40mm from top. One leg was 35mm and the other was 30. I guess Mario thought that oil minght leak out. Fat chance. I don't ride every weekend, but my fork is two years old and I have done nothing to it but adjust the air pressure. I have neither changed the oil nor applied silicone to the sliders(I just did this for the first time last week). It works perfectly.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
karl
a
from York, UK Date Reviewed: March 15, 2002
Favorite Trail:
North York Moors
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$210.00
Purchased At:
LBS (dumb apprentice only filled one chamber with air!)
Strengths:
Smooth, stiff and good seals.
Weaknesses:
Little heavy
Similar Products Used:
RST
Bike Setup:
Marin East Peak, Hope Minis and Mavic 517s.
Bottom Line:
At 150lb, couldn't get full 80 mm travel 'till I reduced oil level to 38 mm from top of stanchions. Set at 30psi, it's serving brilliantly. http://www.montac.com/pdfs/marz_tuning_tips.pdf shows how to tune this not very tuneable fork in a round about sort of way.
After 2 years on the moors (with occasional stops for rest), this fork has kept its stiffness. Also, changing the oil every 4 mths seems to help the smooth ride. Finally, despite muddy trails, stripping down this fork twice has shown barely any grit getting inside. Great reliability and good performance for the money. Five piles of burning foot and mouth- infected cattle.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Siconico d
a
from Flagstaff Az Date Reviewed: November 16, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Schultz Creek
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$230.00
Purchased At:
Universal
Strengths:
Survived for a long time, very stiff, no bob, etc.
Weaknesses:
It's broken, but it's kinda my fault.
Similar Products Used:
RS Quadra 21, X-Vert, Magnum
Bike Setup:
96 stupmy hardtail with not much stock...I guess it's a "Trailbike" now, a bit more burly than most XC these days.
Bottom Line:
I recently broke the fork on the left leg where the brace is bonded to the leg. It just came unbonded ,and is now leaking oil. Hopefully Marz will warantee it. Anyway, I am 190 lbs and ride very hard. (3+ foot drops are normal) So this isn't much of a surprise. Just though y'all ought to know. Even if it's dead, it was a great fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon
a Racer
from Plymouth, Wi Date Reviewed: October 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Nine-mile of wausau
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$225.00
Purchased At:
Bike shop
Strengths:
Strong, durable. Smooth relief from the trail. Easy to adjust for great ride and control. The short travel is great when hammerin' to limit bounce. It is very adjustable from as stiff to as lite as you like.
Weaknesses:
Maybe a little heavy, but I can afford to lose that myself... ;o)
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox Sid
Bike Setup:
Homegrown with avid disc front, avid v rear, UST Mavic Cross-roc wheels
Bottom Line:
Ride this one hard..it'll take it and continue to perform
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dr. Rearrango
a Cross Country Rider
from Albuquerque, NM Date Reviewed: October 4, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Otero
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$249.00
Strengths:
I've now had this shock for 1 1/2 years, and it still is incredible. Takes a rockin' and keeps on shockin' (Apologies to Timex). Holds air pressure for 6-8 weeks with only a pound or two loss.
Weaknesses:
None (who cares about the weight) take a pound off your hiney instead!
Similar Products Used:
Specialized, Rocksh**
Bike Setup:
Trek 8500, UST, 8speed
Bottom Line:
Excellent all-round product for the money.
This shock is still going strong. I have only changed the oil once and it was very clean (no metal shavings like RockShox SID). Those wipers have done an incredible job. I wipe the stanchions with silicon spray every so often (like 'zokes recommends).
I really can't say enough about this shock. Low maintenance +low cost = extremely happy rider!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
david fox
a Cross Country Rider
from asheville, N.C. USA Date Reviewed: September 24, 2001
Favorite Trail:
mighty mouse, tsali N.C.
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$260.00
Purchased At:
liberty bicycles
Strengths:
this fork's strengths,the materials, its build, its travel, and the fact that it doesn't raise the frame angle but provides quite a bit of travel, unlike a psylo.
Weaknesses:
weaknesses, it is a little heavy, but i don't think that i want to budget around that, and i am a little hesitant about the fact there are no crown fixing bolts and it is "cryo-fit" i was assured by my shop and also by the guarantee, so i am not too worried about it, and i guess relying on 4 bolts for security is kinda wierd anyway.
Similar Products Used:
i went from the beefy pepperoni Al fork that came on the 'dale straight to a custom built rock shox mag 21 that was built while rock shox was still on the ACTUAL cane creek road over in fletcher, and it gave me about an inch and a half bottomed out, so moving to almost 3 was like seeing the light for me.
Bike Setup:
i have a '96 cannondale m700 hardtail with full XTR, mavic supCD crossmax's, paul brakes, and a lot of carbon and Ti to sweeten the ride.
Bottom Line:
this is a sweet fork, i really like the plush feel it gives big drops, it eats up ruts and it doesn't lag too much when pumping on the straight.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve s
a Cross Country Rider
from Orono, Maine, USA Date Reviewed: September 17, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$269.00
Purchased At:
Rainbow Bicycles (bike shop in Auburn)
Strengths:
large Dia tubes = Rigid,tracks well. Does a good job with medium to large hits. adjustability (even though i havent had any reason to bother with it.). Steel steerer-tube is nice, i wouldn't trust Aluminium for critical stuff like that unless i was riding strictly CC Racing.
Weaknesses:
got ripped on the price when i bought it. i suppose the it is little heavy it you want to nit-pick. Doesn't respond to little hits as well as the old Judy that i was riding but it is better in every other way.
Similar Products Used:
Quadra 21r, 96 Judy XC.
Bike Setup:
94 Trek 6500 hardtail with cheez parts (STX,LX, alivio-boooo!), i still like the frame but the fork is the nicest thing on my bike.
Bottom Line:
I am really happy with this fork. So far i haven't had ANY problems with it. I do wish that the adjuster pump was included with the fork. I live 120miles from the shop where i bought the fork and i certainly dont want to have to drive all the way there just to adjust it. I am still a little concerned that there aren't boots over the fork seals but like i said not problems so far.
Good all around fork, with a bias towards CC riding. At this point i would go with more travel if i had the money but this fork really has impressed me with overall quality and performance. I will definetly be buying from Marzocchi again. If Fat-Frank hadn't taken me for an extra 50 bucks when i bought it i would give this fork the full 5 flamin chilis for value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Raoul
a Cross Country Rider
from Tijeras Date Reviewed: August 15, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$190.00
Purchased At:
Universal Cycles
Strengths:
responsive, plush, simple - great seal system
Weaknesses:
a bit hefty
Similar Products Used:
Manishi* and RockShi* (they don't let you type the real thing anymore!!!)
Bike Setup:
Rockhopper hardtail w/ xt drivetrain, bontrager wheels, etc. etc.
Bottom Line:
I reviewed this shock after I had it three months and I like it even better now. It's a great value, responsive, durable, and very simple. You have to play around with the pressure until you find what works best for you on any given terrain but after that it's butter. Yeah, the guy at my LBS tried to sell me a SID but I'm not into overhauling seals every six months just to save a bit of weight - I'll let the pros do that. For someone my weight (150lbs), this fork will work very well indeed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Trainee
a Cross Country Rider
from Iowa Date Reviewed: August 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
sugarbottom
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
E-bay
Strengths:
Price, Durability, Overall Performance
Weaknesses:
Weight, this fork is a little hefty, but once you get used to it even this is not really a weakness.
Similar Products Used:
Manitou SX-R, Rock Crap Sid XC, Rock Crap Jett Race
Bike Setup:
Trek 7000 w/ XT drivetrain and Hayes Discs
Bottom Line:
I ride an average of 50-60 miles, weekly on kick-@$$ single-track. This after 60 hrs per week in the grind of a life-sucking job. It was all made worth it when I found the Marzocchi Z4 Flylight Air. This is a great fork for the money. Once you get your personal air pressure dialed in the Z4 will take anything that you can throw at it and beg for more. Those big, beefy stantions just scream, "Beat me!" And when you try, the plush air ride treats you like a baby. If you are looking for a great trailbike fork for a great value, run, don't walk to your nearest Marzocchi dealer and snatch one of these babies up.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Justin Bowman
a Weekend Warrior
from Halifax, Pa Date Reviewed: July 13, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Hebron Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Light Dependable Plush Great Looking
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
Manitou SX-TI, Other crap
Bike Setup:
Kona Muni-Mula, Mavic 221's(red anodized), sram 9.0SL, Cane Creek headset, Xt brakes, Avid 2.0 speed dial levers, etc.
Bottom Line:
This is an awesome fork at a great price. Really dependable and pretty plush. Also looks great on my Kona. Would highly recommend to all types of riders. Marzocchi is the shiznit!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SicoNico
a Cross Country Rider
from Flagstaff Az Date Reviewed: May 16, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
universal cycles
Strengths:
Fairly light, stiff, tracks like rigid
Weaknesses:
Not super plush
Similar Products Used:
RS Quadra 21, Mani X-vert and Magnum
Bike Setup:
heavily modifies 96 stumpy (nothing original)
Bottom Line:
After one year on the fork, I can say it has held up very well. If you remember to change the oil, performance never falls off. The only problem is that 80mm is seeming a bit short for urban and crosscountry freeriding. (That and coils are still plusher no matter how well it's set up) But oh well, I'm still very happy, and it promises to hold up to more 3-foot drops by my fat booty in the future.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken
a
from Salt Lake City, Utah Date Reviewed: May 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Desolation Lake
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Stiff, takes the serious stuff with aplomb, and for very little money.
Weaknesses:
Marzocchi is so far ahead of the pack, this fork only shows limitations when compared to their own higher-end stuff (I own a Z2), but mostly just in small-bump plushness. When it comes to raw performance, you'll go just as fast and lose very little confidence.
Similar Products Used:
Z2, Z3, assorted forgettable Rockshox.
Bike Setup:
My sister's Proflex
Bottom Line:
I was so impressed with both my Z2 and my brother's Z3 that when my sister needed a new fork it would just be another Marzo. She didn't want to spend $400-500, though, and being a featherweight it was more appropriate to get an air fork anyway. But, I of course would have to get a few turns riding it myself. Even I didn't expect that it was going to be as good as it is. Basically this fork retains all the most important qualities that make Marzos perform so well: Wonderfully stiff, composed steering, and fabulous big-hit dampening. I would take this fork over any Rockshox offering, and probably over most Manitou stuff. If you just like to ride hard and have a very fixed budget, this is the best low-cost option. Even the weight isn't all that bad. You won't be disappointed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brendon
a Cross Country Rider
from Barrie, Ontario, CANADA Date Reviewed: May 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Mr. Marbles
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Gates and Boards
Strengths:
Red, Good Seals, Strong, Stiff, cheap(ish)
Weaknesses:
a little heavy for an air fork, but who cares?
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox Judy XC 99'
Bike Setup:
99 Schwinn homegrown frame, LX/XT, Raceface headset, Titec bars and stem, rock shox seat post, bontrager jonesAC tires, Time ATAC pedals OR SX flats w. pins.
Bottom Line:
I actually wanted the 100mm coil shock, but I'm perfectly happy with the 80mm air. Its a little ligher, and keeps my head angle in tact. I bottomed it once while doing a 3-footer-to flat the other day and went over the bars, but that was my fault. I dont understand how other people are saying the fork isnt plush on small hits, but IT IS, or at least compared to my previous Judy. The fork gives me much more confidence. Bottom line, If you need a good fork, and dont want to shell out too many clams, buy it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Xtreme Ryder
a Cross Country Rider
from New York Date Reviewed: April 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Anything with dirt
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$185.00
Strengths:
Great Seals-No need for boots here! Very Plush on drops(about 3 feet) and very rocky terrain. Beefy + Tough = Bombproof
Weaknesses:
NOt as plush on small hits..But definately takes the BIG STUFF!!
This fork has taken a BEATIN' ever since i've had it and has lived way past my expectations. I've taken this fork on technical downhills,muddy and dusty terrain,huge climbs and off launches...Marzocchi forks at this price are a steal..GET ONE WHILE YOU CAN!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew McFerron
a Cross Country Rider
from Salem, OR Date Reviewed: February 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
ganzo
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
Santiam Cycles
Strengths:
stiffness, seals, light(for marzocchi), good value
Great for value. Although it isn't too plush, it gets the job done. Good seals, no fork boots nessecary.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jesse Melanson
a Cross Country Rider
from Lisbon Falls, ME, US Date Reviewed: February 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Misquito Hill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$229.00
Purchased At:
Actually, I got it on a bike at Universal
Strengths:
Tough, real tough, but hey, It's a Marzocchi. It's weird, cause it's super plush like a Judy, but with the air benefits like the Z2 Superfly.
Weaknesses:
No boots are irritating sometimes. I wish it came with the pump, and I wish paint would'nt scratch. Oh yeah, and I already blew a valve
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox Jett T2, Rock Shox Judy C, Manitou SX-D.
Bike Setup:
2000 KHS Alite 3000, Marzocchi Z4 flylight (I hope you figured that out already)All XT w/ discs, Mavic 317, raceface,
Bottom Line:
Well, I recommended this fork to my brother. He thought I was crazy. Maybe the fact that he's 10 years old has something to do with his bizare behavior. But I think this is an appropriate fork for any kind of rider. Just becareful with the valves, they were made from little kids in the midwest, working for peanuts and apple juice. I busted mine 3 days after I first rode it, and 45 seconds after I tried out my new pump. But I give the Fork 5 chilis, and the pump none>>>>>
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Downhiller
from Idaho Falls, Id USA Date Reviewed: February 2, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Idaho Mountain Trading Co.
Strengths:
Works much better than my old Rock Shox Quad 21! Soaks up the dolies a lot better and seems to give better steering control. Easily adjustable once you figure out how much air to use.(42lbs. - I weigh 215 and this setting seems to work pretty well)
Weaknesses:
On my second ride I noticed oil leaking from the area where the fork tube is pressed into the arch. I took it back to the bike shop and they said Marzocchi would make good on it since it was a warranty deal. I was told this was not an uncommon problem.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
2000 Diamondback Zetec Comp, XT upgrade, Eagle adjustable stem, everything else stock the way it came including the Z.4 shock
Bottom Line:
Very good shock for the buck. Works well as far as it went. I hope that I don't have more trouble with oil leaks. Really soaks up the bumps! Looks cool, works great, depemdability may be suspect. Buy it if you're short of cash, but I might be wishing that I had gone more upscale in the long run.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill Gavinchuk
a Downhiller
from Calgary, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: January 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Monkey Suits
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Cyclepath
Strengths:
Relatively light Fairly stiff Easily Adjusted (just need the fork pump and a couple of minutes)
Weaknesses:
Leg valves come out really easily
Similar Products Used:
Manitou Magnum, Rock Shox Jett T2, Judy XC
Bike Setup:
Trek 4300, STX shifters, Z.4 Flylight Air. Wanna Buy It?
Bottom Line:
This fork can handel almost anything (once you get it presurized right). I do mostly downhill and urban assaulting and this fork does the job awsome, its got just enough travel to soak up most hits, and little enough that it doesn't soak up all your pedaling energy, or dip too much when you hit the front brake.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dave ford
a Cross Country Rider
from bristol, uk Date Reviewed: January 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
mendip
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
£140
Strengths:
smooth, stiction-free, rigid, cool looks
Weaknesses:
takes a while to bed-in, paint chips easily
Similar Products Used:
pace rc30, rst 381tl
Bike Setup:
kona lava dome, pretty much stock - ritchey risers, marzocchi z4 flylights, shimano spd's, wildgrippers fr/rear
Bottom Line:
These forks are as smooth as butter with very little flex, allowing you to chuck them into a corner without any worries. The seals are superb, they stop mud, dust, even the odd jett-washing! - nothing seems to get past. For the money the performance of these forks is ridiculously good. If you want a cool looking fork thats capable of eating big hits, super stiff, inspires confidence when riding and does'nt need to be serviced every five minutes then the Z4's are king. Buy 'em now before Marzocchi come to their senses and put the price up!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gareth
a Cross Country Rider
from Vancouver, Canada Date Reviewed: January 14, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
- Reasonably light, very stiff, good action on large and small stuff, great looking
Weaknesses:
- No external rebound adjuster
Similar Products Used:
Judy XC 99, Judy Race 00, ...
Bike Setup:
Rocky Mtn Oxy Race
Bottom Line:
* UPDATE *
Just got back from a 3 month ride through Vietnam, Laos and Thailand. This for survived the most horrid conditions I've ever ridden (for this long) in. Lots of mud, dust and river fording but still no oil contamination - the seals are amazing. An excellent buy for the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a
from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: December 23, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$160.00
Purchased At:
River Valley Cycle
Strengths:
Good solid fork, rides well, ok on the plushness and over a good fork for the weekend xc rider
Weaknesses:
needs a dampening aduster
Similar Products Used:
Judy XC Manitou
Bike Setup:
Kona Muni-Mula
Bottom Line:
Solid fork for the money you pay. Don't us if you are into the heavy stuff. The weight means nothing. But it if you are a weekend rider and don't need to spend extra money on a more expensive fork. The main thing is that you get what you need for not much $.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jason
a Cross Country Rider
from Duncaville, TX Date Reviewed: November 30, 2000
Favorite Trail:
it's a secret
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$175.00
Purchased At:
Strong Racing
Strengths:
Simple, Strong, Long (100mm), Cheap
Weaknesses:
Rebound could be quicker
Similar Products Used:
Manitou
Bike Setup:
Strong Racing custom steel hardtail, XTR and other good stuff.
Bottom Line:
I don't like spending tons of money on a fork. My theory is to get the strongest and dial it to save my rear when I get in over my head. This one does just that.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rajesh
a Cross Country Rider
from Wichita Date Reviewed: November 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
River Trails in Lawerence
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
Used
Strengths:
This shock has been great. I have been riding it for a while now and each time I ride it the more I regret not getting one sooner. I find myself looking for bumps that it will soak up rather than hopping over them. I think it is a great fork although I have not tried to service it yet.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
99 Judy C 96 Judy XC 99 Spyder R
Bike Setup:
99 Rocky Mountain Soul
Bottom Line:
If you want a new shock but are strapped for cash, hold out until you find a shock that gives you all of the performance of the high dollar suspensions. The only difference that I have found is the weight.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Artur Nogueira
a Cross Country Rider
from Maia - Portugal Date Reviewed: November 24, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$170.00
Strengths:
Construction, overall quality, performance
Weaknesses:
a bit on the heavy side
Bottom Line:
Very good performance, more suitable for hardtails, very reliable, superb on the big hits. Is the 4th Bomber I own and no problems whatsoever. Very good and reliable fork
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fishaaaa
a Cross Country Rider
from Richmond, VA Date Reviewed: November 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
The one I'm riding baby!!!
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$249.00
Purchased At:
Nashbar
Strengths:
The folks at Marzocchi did it right...K-I-S-S. This fork is simple, yet very effective. No frills here, just a jammin' product. Very little lateral flex. Does not bottom out.
Weaknesses:
Not as plush as Coil, especially on the little bumps, but bring on the big hits....this fork'll eat 'em up boyyyyyyy! A bit sticky at first, just keep the seals lubed up. Boots would've been nice---hey manufacturers LET US DECIDE IF WE WANT THE BOOTS ON OR OFF!!!
EVOL. I love this fork. Simple....no maintenance headaches, you can pick it up for next to nothing now. Drop yer RS & Answer crap and get on the 'Zoke train. YOU WILL NOT REGRET A THING. Value - OK, now they are dirt cheap so I'll give 'em 5 funeral pyres. Overall - hmmmmmmm let's sssssay 5.1?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bretto
a Weekend Warrior
from NSW Australia Date Reviewed: November 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any tech single track
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
They're cheap and light. I have only bottomed out a few times. The first time my rear wheel was dented badly as it followed on a creek crossing with large sharp rocks - I put it to the forks getting me accross in one piece. They are somewhat of a danger to me though, allowing me to have more control at higher speeds. Now I have 3 broken ribs and torn ligaments in my shoulder ! (Ouch)
Weaknesses:
Not being able to adjust the dampening
Similar Products Used:
Judys, Indys, RST delta
Bike Setup:
Avanti Barracuda
Bottom Line:
They are an excellent valued fork that perform well and suits my bike (what would the use be handing out a heap of cash to put over the top forks on an average MTB?)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stinky
a Cross Country Rider
from Smelly Date Reviewed: October 28, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
super plush I was sooooo happy even though they were not broken in!! I wonder what it will feel like if they were! AHHHHHHH sweet!!
Weaknesses:
what are you talking about??? well i wish they were coils but I don't think i can feel a difference! besides, coils are more weight.
Similar Products Used:
other bombers
Bike Setup:
2000 norco nitro with z.2 atom 80(sweet), 2000 kona mula mula with z.4
Bottom Line:
Go with this fork if your short on cash cuz it's the nicest fork you can buy at regular price. Looks like it came from the future. I like the new m arch, It makes more sence for racing, it's lighter, stiffer, and better looking then 1999
Minus one flaming pile of dung because you need a fork pump which you have to buy seperate
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joshua Conner
a Cross Country Rider
from Lebanon,OH....USA Date Reviewed: October 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Cesars Creek
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$240.00
Strengths:
Thing looks cool, is very sturdy, plush, and all sorts of other legit words!
Weaknesses:
Had a terriable time setting up air pressure.
Similar Products Used:
RS Judy
Bike Setup:
Trek 7000 with a bunch of fancy stuff.
Bottom Line:
When this thing was first purchased I had no clue of how much air to put into it. So I asked my roadie friend who happens to own a bike shop. The dude told me to put 160pds in it. We all know the answer to that! Lucky me I didn't blow any seals, at least I think. Now Im running about 50pds in it (I weigh 200pds). So far the fork has been really nice. It handles very well and I have noticed a difference in the handeling of the bike. Lets just say that this thing is very smooth baby! Get the fork, it kicks butt! If anyone reads this could you please give me an idea of how much air I should run! Id sure hate to blow a seal. Is it normal to see some oil under the caps after a ride? FIVE HOT ONES!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
blind monkey
a Cross Country Rider
from vancouver, BC Date Reviewed: September 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
north shore
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$179.00
Purchased At:
phattire.com
Strengths:
light, but i dont care about that. i havent dented any rims since i got it. really makes the ride smoother and it looks really great
Weaknesses:
bobs too much. a pain in the arse to adjust
Similar Products Used:
2000 Judy's, atom 80, Z5, buncha crap rsts....
Bike Setup:
kona hahanna stock 'cept for Z4
Bottom Line:
good fork, not great, i think i shoulda saved my money and stick to rigid cause this here marzocchi is supposed to be the pinnacle of suspension performance, except for headshox, and it doesnt make a huge difference in the ride. riding down stairs, rocky paths and stuff it does help, but not a lot. If i had the money i guess an Xfly or atom bomb or lefty or fatty, woulda made more difference, but i dont think itd be that much, and most of those forks cost $600 to $1000 cnd. id only recomend suspension forks to downhillers cause the judy Xl really does make a difference, and so would higher end DH forks, Mr t, boxxer, stratos. but then i cant ride to and from school on those huge things, i complained that my Z4 bobbed too much. bottom line: i want a lefty ELO
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron R.
a Cross Country Rider
from Baltimore, MD Date Reviewed: September 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
rocky dirt ones
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$170.00
Strengths:
it works good, low pressure makes it pretty easy, set-up not too bad, needs to be broken in more
Weaknesses:
rebound adjustment under air caps, it's a little heavy but i didn't get a marzocchi to be light
Similar Products Used:
just my piece jett
Bike Setup:
trek 6000 almost all lx drivetrain
Bottom Line:
This fork works real well once you find out how much pressure to use for your riding. Until then and the break-in period it's a little stictiony(sp?) if that's a word. i didn't have any fork oil to pour on the seals so i'm gonna have to go get some. i'm running 31psi for 145 and it's a little stiff. probably going to end up using 26-28 somewhere in there. the price was just way too awesome. got it in red too. matches my bike! hey shut up i kind of care what my bike looks like.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SFA
a Cross Country Rider
from NJ Date Reviewed: September 2, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
Universal Cycles
Strengths:
Plush, looks real good, adjustability, stiffness, PRICE!
Weaknesses:
Damping not adjustable without changing oil (you gotta change it eventually like any fork anyway, it is easy though)
Similar Products Used:
Manitou SX-D, SX-R, Mars 1
Bike Setup:
lx/xt rockhopper comp fs
Bottom Line:
This fork is the nicest one I have ridden. It is real plush and stiff. It looks really good in blue and with the m arch. Compression is easily adjustable. It's light without being a flexy piece. The price was really good. I got it for $250 with a Cane Creek c2 headset. It's definately the best you can get for the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
adam palmer
a Racer
from eagle, co Date Reviewed: August 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
spineless
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$169.00
Purchased At:
universalcycles.com
Strengths:
It's a marzocchi. Stiff, plush, reliable, simple design, low pressure.
Weaknesses:
damping adjust--not as simple as turning a dial, you need to change oil weight and/or level.
Similar Products Used:
manitou sx, sid, marzocchi z1
Bike Setup:
giant mcm team
Bottom Line:
I'm more than impressed with this fork. I average 100 miles/week on the dirt, purchased this fork from good reviews, the marzocchi legacy, and the price. After around 8 hours of riding them, they've really broken in nicely. I've lowered the oil level a bit, it has a linear rate travel, excellent damping, and I'm stroking 85mm with the zip tie. I weigh 160, and run around 30 psi/leg. It weighs the same as the Xfly and works better, regardless of price. You will go faster and smoother, guaranteed! Get some!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Hoskins
a Cross Country Rider
from Durango, CA Date Reviewed: August 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Devil's Trapdoor
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Pretty light, not much flex, plush ride, looks mega
Weaknesses:
Pump valves can unscrew easily and depressurize the air chambers (not a major problem, more of a pet peeve)
Kona Explosif, stock 'cpt for fork change (don't trust SID's)
Bottom Line:
Like a good wine, this fork gets better with age. At first, I found that the travel wasn't very smooth and thought the seals were too tight or something, but they just needed a week or so to wear in. I've used this fork in many riding situations and it hasn't let me down yet. Due to having almost no flex, I'm confident of cutting any line that seems possible, and it handles pretty knarly jumps and dropoffs without bottoming out (I ride it at 30psi as I'm 175lbs and I've never bottomed this fork). Low pressure system is something that Crock Shox is gonna catch onto soon, and they wonder why SIDs blow seals so easily as compared to the Marzocchi air forks. You can't possibly find a better fork for the money, I'm looking forward to Marzocchi's 2001 line!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Leo
a Cross Country Rider
from Bend, Oregon Date Reviewed: August 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
fiendish
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
travel, looks burly like the incredible hulk, some other stuff
Weaknesses:
dunno yet, although, if you screw the pump down tight you will unscrew the little valve deal.
just got this fork installed and de-flowered the guy last night. I was actually very surprised at how much better it felt than the manitou it replaced. granted, i haven't ridden any serious amount of miles on this fork yet so i really have no room to speak seriously about it. my first impressions though are that it is very stiff, does not bob when doing in the saddle climbing, weighs less than my previous fork and absorbs the bumps like nothing i've ever ridden. it just looks tough too, no focking around with this fork. it's durable, good looking, weight is very reasonable, easy to use, and has 3.5 inches of travel (that's what i got with the ziptie test). an excellent selection for the all-around ride everyday type fiend (like me). anywaysssssssss, i'll give it five flamin' dead cats for the time being and review it again in 6-12 months after i've tortured the Z4 like no other. LIVIN'
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Duane
a Weekend Warrior
from Brooklyn, NY Date Reviewed: August 8, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Graham Hills MTB Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Strong, durable, 30 mm stanchions, no flex. Soaks up big hits. Air spring is easy to adjust. The seals are tight (maybe too tight, see weaknesses)
Weaknesses:
Adequate maintenance manual can only be found on the website. Fine-tuning it for small stuff is a task. Dust seals are impossible to remove.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Trek 820 AL stock except for Cane Creek S5 headset and Kore Lite Stem
Bottom Line:
Excellent fork for the money. Once you set it up properly, you can do just about anything. It is definitely a confidence builder for a novice rider. I'm not afraid to take on the gnarliest of roots and rocks. The weight just tells me that the fork can take a beating without breaking. For my formerly rigid bike, this was the best upgrade I made, and I don't regret it for one second. It seems plush, but I have little to compare it to, since it is my first fork. But I think it does an excellent job. If you're looking for an excellent, entry-level fork that's worth every penny. Buy this one (and download the manual from the website.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gareth
a Cross Country Rider
from Vancouver, Canada Date Reviewed: July 30, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
- Relatively light for a Marzocchi - Nice 'n' Stiff - Plush, extremely adjustable travel - Excellent dust/oil seals
Weaknesses:
- Not quite as good on the smaller stuff - Doesn't make me toast and coffee in the mornings
Excellent fork for the money, and of course it's for XC riders and not DH'ers. It's light enough for me (heavy to me is 4lbs and over), is great for all XC conditions and I love the super-cherry air sprung travel. As long as you have the pressure set correctly for your weight, the ride is truly magnificent. First day I got the forks I endo'd twice cuz these forks made me want to crazy things I wouldn't normally attempt - they've taken over my mind! Best fork in the price range, period.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
phil (beck)
a Cross Country Rider
from casper Date Reviewed: July 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
peak trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
looks, cool factor, PLUSH AS HELL!, its a marzocchi, adjustable,, stiff, handels like a dream, nice "progressive" feel, it gives me core confidence to do the "gnarly sh*t", did i mention ITS PLUSH!, SMOOTHE, AND SEXY?
Weaknesses:
its a little on the heavy side (only sissies whine about weight) and i cant figure out how to get them damned dust seals off
Similar Products Used:
i wouldnt be able to compare it to anything
Bike Setup:
trek 6000 wsd (laugh and ill kill ya) z4 flylight, azonic riser bars, kore ti. skewers, and the wheel that beck built
Bottom Line:
marzocchi is the only fork for me, and anyone else who is concerned with performance-not weight, it will out perform ANY other brand out there EXPECIALLY ROCKSHOX! you couldnt even begin to think about dreaming about "fro riding" on a rockshox
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James
a Cross Country Rider
from Melbourne Date Reviewed: July 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
all of em
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
weight, plushness, stiffnes, responce over small bumps, looks, disk brake mount
Weaknesses:
a little more adjust would be nice but not an absolute nesesity - by any means
basically this is a great fork which will suit any cross country rider. this is not a DH fork (in responce to another review - why would you buy a XC fork for DH?...idiot) The z4 will take anything a xc rider can throw at it, it offers supreme contro down hills, is excellent at absorbing even the slightest bump, and the disc brake mounts are a very neccessary thing because these forks are so good that those with more money to spend can instead of geting one awsome pair of forks can get the z4s(which are equally as good) and a pair of disc brakes to make an even better bike set-up. Furthermore, there seems to be no need for boots becasue I have not experienced any problems with oil leackage, which was a big problem with the 99 z5s.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn P
a Cross Country Rider
from LaMesa Date Reviewed: July 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Noble
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Price, Stiffness, Feel, Simplicity, Seals and Look.
Weaknesses:
Really none, since I was in this price range, what can I expect? Let's be realistic
Similar Products Used:
Rock shocks, Trek Black Diamond ( yeah they are old )
Bike Setup:
Trek y-11, z.4 flylight, XTR v brakes, XT shifters/levers, Tru Vativ Team Stylo cranks, XTR rear der., XT front der., XT hubs, Ritchey ocr pro rims, Michelin wildgripper xl rear tire, spec. team control front tire and Oury grips. Incredibell so you know I am coming!
Bottom Line:
This fork is everything I ever expected out of a 250 dollar fork! Plain and simple, if you want or need more, then spend more. I work at a shop in La Mesa, and one of our guys is 260 lbs, he bought the fork on my reccomendation..........he loves it. I am 170 lbs. It is awesome. Set up is simple, holds air better than SIDS, and the seals kick ass! I could have paid more...........but why?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Magnus Consiglio
a
from Montreal Canada Date Reviewed: July 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Steep Ravine California
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
A great XC fork cmon its a bomber. Great Rebound, Lots of fun but unless your into strickly XC it doesnt have enuf travel
Weaknesses:
NOT ENOUGH TRAVEL
Similar Products Used:
old marzocchi's manitou Pro C's
Bike Setup:
KONA muni mula with xt
Bottom Line:
Look its a great fork but im the kinda guy who likes a XC ride but loves to do some downhilling on the side. If your like me dont get this fork but if you love XC this will win races for you. Its lite and lots of fun but cannot give me the long travel needs so i have upgraded to a z1 drop off which has finally satisfyed my apetite for huge drops and crazy descents. 4 value i have to give it 4 flaming chilis but for the rating a respectable 4 flaming chilis if your a dedicated cross country racer who cant fork out tons of dough this is a great fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Curt W
a Cross Country Rider
from Albuquerque, NM, USA Date Reviewed: July 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
El Cedro trails
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Smooth travel, big bang for the buck. The bootless, wipers-developed by motorcycle guys!!
Weaknesses:
Not super sensitive to small bumps, no lock out.
Similar Products Used:
Judies, Future Shock
Bike Setup:
Trek 8500, gripshift, XT, Mavicx517s, Selle Italia Turbo saddle (old school)
Bottom Line:
Overall, a great shock for the money. Save at least $200 over the fancier shocks and get the same product. This shock is a wolf in sheep's clothing. This shock is for any riders who ride a little bit of everything from the single track downhill hits to the fire road wash boards. It is smooth when out of the saddle, as it hasn't clunked at the top of the stroke on me yet. It is however slow to get going on slow, small hits, but that's the nature of air shocks. The wipers work superbly on the dust and grit of New Mexico. If you aren't worried about winning the crowds with big dollar style points, and like a no nonsense product, then this shock is for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kiko
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, Ca. Date Reviewed: July 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anything that rocks
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Price, quality, fine Italian workmanship, and it takes a licking and still kicks booty. Marzocchi makes the best shocks in the biz. For $250 you get a quality air fork that acts like a $500 shock. It really makes a difference in my riding ability. Rocks and boulders don't stand a chance so just ride over them and give a rebel yell. Oh, by the way, they are soooooo beautiful and match my black FSR.
Weaknesses:
A little noisy and I'm still thinking and thinking and...................
Similar Products Used:
Manitous, Rockshox
Bike Setup:
99 FSR Sport,XT derailer, Bontrager rims, Raceface1inch riser bar, Kool stop brake pads, Lx mega shifters, bodt geometry seat, Icon stem
Bottom Line:
The best fork for the money on the market. You can't go wrong, whether you're on a budget or not. Buy 'em and use'em. You can't beat this deal with stick!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Searles
a Downhiller
from Socorro, NM USA Date Reviewed: June 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anything with big air
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
VALUE!, infinite tunability, quality, stiffness
Weaknesses:
Some may dislike the weight, but that just makes you stronger.
Bike Setup:
stock GT XCR 5000
Bottom Line:
This sweet Italian work of art replaced the SR Suntour on my GT. You can't beat the value at 240 bucks. Some say it weighs too much but that just builds muscle. I only weigh about 140, so I would never use more than 80mm. It eats toaster sized rocks for breakfast, it is super rigid, Marzocchi quality, plush enough for me, and the blue body looks sweeeet on my yellow GT. What more can I get for such a low price? 5 flamin hot New Mexico chilis for this product of engineering genius.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Leybowitz
a Weekend Warrior
from Lafayette Date Reviewed: June 16, 2000
Favorite Trail:
France Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Stiff, smooth, adjustable, black
Weaknesses:
Low sensitivity to small hits
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi Z2 Alloy, Manitou SX, Manitou SXR, Rock Shox Indy C
A great entry level fork with infinite adjustability. I have not experienced any problems with holding a line despite my 230 lbs. I have not seen any flex. The action is smooth once you overcome the preload. You won't find a lot of small hit plushness, but you'll soak up everything else with style. For $240, this is an excellent fork to invest in. Just make sure you get a shock pump that only reads up to 50 or 100 psi. The 300 psi models work, but nailing your desired pressure is tough to read.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steven Moss
a Cross Country Rider
from Woodstock, GA, USA Date Reviewed: June 16, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Bull Mountain
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Realtively light, Price, It works.
Weaknesses:
Disk brake mount added weight. No for boots. No way to change the oil without removing the shock.
Similar Products Used:
RS Mag 10, RS Judy XC
Bike Setup:
Stumpjumper M2 Comp
Bottom Line:
This is a good replacement for the 63mm travel Judy that came stock on my bike but there is always room for improvement. Why put a disc brake mount on a $250 fork? If I pay that much for a fork then I am probably not going to pay the $300+ buck to get disc brakes. This also adds weight to an otherwise light fork. The slider with the disk brake mount has thicker walls and the mount attached, this is useless weight. The fork could be in the 3.2lb range istead of the 3.6 lbs it is now.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill/sjca
a Cross Country Rider
from San Jose Date Reviewed: June 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Saratoga Gap / Soquel Demo
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Stiff, and plush. air / oil tunability Low pressure, and easy air filling VAULE!
Weaknesses:
weight, at 3.9 lb with a steel steerer it's kind of heavy.
16" Sunn Revolt soft tail (Cr Mo), Cross Land wheels, Gripshift 9.0sl, WTB seat, 747's, SBI controls ft, Mythos rear, Race Face cranks, and Syncros post
Bottom Line:
Excellent value for a XC / trail bike, and the best fork I've ridden on. The extra travel compared to the superfly and the Sunn fork, makes a huge difference. I've dropped the oil level and run 35 psi. I got a great deal $150 from someone who got it with their new bike. Even at retail $230 - $250, it's a great value. The only room for inprovement would be to lose some weight @ 3.9 (Steel steerer) It's a HOT Fork
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Neil Farquahr
a Weekend Warrior
from U.K Date Reviewed: May 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Emmm, Not Sure!
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Affordable, Reasonably light, great looks, very plush.
Weaknesses:
A little bit stiff, but nothing a bit of adjustment wont fix.
Great Fork for the money. Takes Big And Middle-Sized hits. You don't feel it bottoming out, very plush. Great Fork. If you are a lighter person, you may want to try the fork at a lower pressure.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Janne
a Cross Country Rider
from Helsinki, Finland Date Reviewed: May 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Keskuspuisto
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Rigidness, plushness, reliable action, very good damping makes a 80 mm of travel 100 mm overall with its action!
Weaknesses:
Weight (who cares, lose some weight yourself), somewhat noisy action but then you know it's working ;-).
Well, at this price, what do you expect? I got a flaming deal of a fork here that works even on finnish pine-paths (read hundreds of 20 centimeter bumps one after another on a relatively small distance), good tolerance of dirt and a hell of a damping system that won´t let the fork bottom out. I can ride it with the minimum pressure available and, (I weigh about 80 kg's) it is sooo plush! No bottoming because of the excellent damping system. Easy setup (oil and air only). Excellent durability and overall sturdiness. It looks good also! Don't go for the usual RS&Manitou stuff, buy stuff that works and also lasts! This is the fork for a budget rider like I am!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ron
a
from Laguna Beach,Ca Date Reviewed: May 5, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Cheap, Light, Low Maint. I just ride the dang things, I don't take them apart. I ain't now bike motorhead!
Weaknesses:
The darn thing has a disk break mount that prevents me from using the old Yakima bike racks (where the fork mounts in front of the bar). I have not even priced what the new yak bike rack acc. costs. Plus 25 bux more for a pump
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox Judy, Indy
Bottom Line:
Rock Shox are bite...Marzo rule!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
a Weekend Warrior
from phoenix Date Reviewed: April 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
trail 100
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
stiff, light, plush...I only had to dial in the air pressure once!
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
RS indy, judy
Bike Setup:
KHS 4000 alite, z4, raceface cranks and seatpost, titec hellbent and big al cockpit, mavic crosslinks.
Bottom Line:
I had no idea what it was to actually have a front shock that works since I previously had a RS indy and judy T2. I had been looking at the lower end marzochi shocks since last year and decided to get the z4 2000 when offered a good deal for it at a local bike shop $200.00!! What a difference!!... the first day I took it to the trails I felt I was flying. I was looking to hit the bigest bumps and the z4 just kept absorbing them - so plush. I did not even check the air pressure before the 1st ride (did not know how to adjust) and it had 45 psi. Now I ride w/ 25psi and it works great. Perfect for a rider on a budget, a no brainer. I give it 5 flaming burritos for the price and the performance.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
H
a Weekend Warrior
from London, UK Date Reviewed: April 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere which doesn't stress me too much
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Price, Action, Price, Tuning, Price, Rigidity - did I mention price?
Weaknesses:
None at this price.
Similar Products Used:
Virtually any XC fork you care to name until about 3 years ago, and quite a few current ones
Bike Setup:
XC-2D production frame, Z4, 217/XT. R-1 prototype jump frame, Z4, 217/XT. Brake systems: Magura rim, Hope 2-pot, Formula MD1 mechanical
Bottom Line:
I'm astounded. The moment that I started riding these forks over serious terrain, I asked myself 'How much did we pay for these again?'. Everyone else also thought that the performance was awesome, especially given the price.
Sure, the finish is very dodgy, it's not actually flylight for XC (1.6 Kilos) but the lo-pressure air spring flattens out the logarithmic response of a typical hi-press air system and with the SSV oil damping it works a treat over all terrain and riding style!
So far, we've had no discernible pressure losses, either on the trail (except once by accident) or when the bikes have been left.
It doesn't 'twang' like you know who's forks thanks to the larger stanchion diameter, and it's disc compatible.
Tuning isn't hard if you buy the Marzocchi air pump, and the fork is a doddle to disassemble (unlike many I could mention) - also you get a very helpful tuning guide from their website. Fantastic.
If you budget won't stretch to a Z1, if you want a 'tight' feeling short-travel fork or you don't need 4" of travel, don't bother going for anything else unless you really need to twiddle those knobs on the trail - buy these, save yourself some serious bucks, and keep on grinnin'.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Raoul Floresca
a Weekend Warrior
from Philippines Date Reviewed: February 27, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Balara Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Unbelievably plush for an air fork. Beginner-friendly tuning (I've only been riding for a month and got the fork dialled in on just my second ride.) I'd recommend this fork to every entry-level rider looking for a long-term investment.
Weaknesses:
No boots but it's nothing a quick clean-up after every ride can't fix.
Great performance at an even greater price (This fork is available in the Philipines at an even lower cost than the best online stores!)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jay
a Cross Country Rider
from New Orleans Date Reviewed: February 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Oak Mtn State Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
I had no idea that a suspension fork could work this well
Weaknesses:
The threat of blowing a seal during a ride
Similar Products Used:
RS Judy XC, Indy SL, Manitou SX
Bike Setup:
Schwinn Moab 1
Bottom Line:
Like I said - I had no idea that a suspension fork could possibly work this well. I did a lot of homework on this since I am a starving grad student and have very little funds. I could have gotten any number of 99 close-out forks but decided to go with the Z4 Flylight and am I ever glad I did! Get it from Bikeworld for 225 shipping included and EXCELLENT service! This thing improved the ride and handling of my bike so much, that I don't even want the homegrown model anymore. Absolutely NO flex in the legs. When I ride this thing, I literally can't tell its working - it is that plush - now you might say what about suspension bob on climbs if its that plush? That's why I went with an air fork. Since the spring rate on an air fork is steeper that that of spring, after 1 or 2 pedal strokes, the fork finds its travel and stays there and doesn't bob at all. No bob on climbs, super plush on downhills - I even really look forward to the downhills more due to the increased control I get now.This is the only upgrade I have ever bought that I can say has truly made me a FASTER rider.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ron Babcock
a Cross Country Rider
from Elk City Date Reviewed: February 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
12 Miles of Hell
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
-Light weight for a Bomber (3.75 pounds weighed on a digital scale). -Very supple for an air fork -Very plush on big hits
Weaknesses:
-Not very adjustable (just air, oil weight and oil height) -No fork boots.
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox Mag 21, Marzocchi DH-3, Manitou Spyder R (99), RST Zeta TL, Rock Shox Judy XC and Judy C, Cannondale Headshok
Bike Setup:
Marin East Peak: mostly stock parts except for Control Tech handlebar, XT shifters and levers, Titec Berzerker DH saddle
Bottom Line:
For the $229.00 that I paid for this fork it is an incredible value.
This fork is very supple on the smaller hits. It's not quite as nice as a spring fork but it is very close. On bigger hits it performs better and handles 3-4 foot drops wonderfully. I'm also getting 90mm of travel out of my Z.4 instead of the 80mm that Marzocchi says. This doesn't bother me much since it really balances the front and rear end better (4" of travel in back). The big draw back to the travel of this fork is the lack of dampng adjustability. But the stock set up works well for me. If you are under 200 pounds switch to 5 wt oil. If you are under 150 pounds switch to 2.5 weight oil. Also if you want to upgrade to adjustability later on you can do a direct change with the Z.3 damper shaft (don't know the cost) for internal rebound adjustability and you can also install the Z.2 cartridge into the fork (100.00). If you want a more supple ride you can change top caps from the Z.4 air models to the Z.3 coil models and drop in some Marzocchi springs. This will give you a spring equiped model and a very supple ride.
The fork is very stiff when it comes to steering precision and handles my weight very well (240 pounds). I've had no brake rub so far (like I do with many forks). Compared to other forks I've tried it's the 2nd stiffest behind the Headshok.
The only problem I've had with my fork is that it came with to much oil in the fork. I needed to lower the oil level around 20-25mm to get full travel and a linear compression stroke out of the fork.
The bottom line with this fork it if you have 230.00-250.00 (depending on where you buy it) get this fork. It would be an upgrade to all but the higher end Marzocchi forks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James Carroll
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin, TX Date Reviewed: February 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Greenbelt
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Screaming deal for the money, smooth action, takes big hits surprisingly well
Weaknesses:
Doesn't get the chi-chi polished looks of the Xfly
Similar Products Used:
Atom Bomb, Z2, Z1, Jr T, Judy, Manitou, Noleen
Bike Setup:
Moonshot, XT/XTR/Raceface
Bottom Line:
This fork has got to be the sleeper deal of the year. $250 retail and it rides like a Z2 Xfly. I've only ridden it twice, and it's been a while since I've been on my Atom Bomb, as I've spent most of my time on a Z1 and Jr T but I've very impressed with it's performance. It feels stiffer than I remember my old Atom Bomb, but surprisingly takes big hits very well and is noticably lighter than the Atom Bomb. Really gets 90% of the ride of an Xfly for 50% of the price. Not as sweet looking as the Xfly but for $250, who cares. We'll see how it holds up, and I'll post an update when I've had a chance to ride more.
James
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Garritson
a Racer
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: January 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Chula Vista local canyons
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Amazingly plush and laterally rigid for such an awesome price.
Weaknesses:
No adjuster knobs; no fork boots.
Similar Products Used:
Rockshox Judy XC
Bike Setup:
Specialized Stumpjumper, XTR/XT, riser bars, suspension post.
Bottom Line:
A huge improvement over my judy; tracks like its cool and is amazingly plush for an air fork at this price. Marzocchi has done their homework!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Burke
a Cross-Country Rider
from Salt Lake City Date Reviewed: January 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Millcreek trail to Dog Lake, then to Desolation Lake to the Crestline trail and back down again via the loop. Almost any trail in Moab, especially the 24 hours race course.
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Plush! Price! Responds extreemely well in every condition I have ridden it on. Adjustability is pretty good and the low presure air shock should give long mantenance intervals. I was also surprised by just how light this for was.
Weaknesses:
Takes some getting use to when setting it up. It is quite a bit different from other forks without air.
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shock Sid, Jett Judy, Manitou X-vert, SX, RST and other Marocchi forks
Bike Setup:
VooDoo HooDoo and 2000 Orxy HTA 500
Bottom Line:
The best fork that I have found for the price. Marzocchi makes the plushest forks in the world and even though the Z4 is a less expensive model in their line it still works fantastic. I would recommend this fork as an upgrade or standard equipment on almost any new bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joshua
a Cross-Country Rider
from Selangor, Malaysia Date Reviewed: December 11, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Everything up, under and around
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Smooth Buttery Plushness Rigid and tough Perfect travel for my riding!
Weaknesses:
A little bit noisy sometimes No adjuster knobs
Similar Products Used:
Manitou Pro Marzocchi Bomber Z.2
Bike Setup:
American Eagle 13.5 inch H-tail, LX,XT,XTR bits, Risers and 2.1 tyres
Bottom Line:
This fork is an excellent performer(apart form the slight noise). Plushness,rigidity and smooth stroke damping garaunteed!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Tucson, AZ Date Reviewed: November 22, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Plush Stiff Acceptably light
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
Manitou SX RS Judy XC
Bike Setup:
Klein HT
Bottom Line:
After hearing all of the raves about Marzocchi forks, I went out and bought a Z4 Flylight to replace a POS '97 Manitou SX. I'm sorry I didn't do it sooner. The 'Zoke is sooo much more pluch on the small bumps, while still taking the big hits well. I'm able to use fairly low air pressures ('30 psi) so hopefully seal reliability won't be a problem. Great fork!
Overall Rating:
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