Submitted by
Travis Jeddore
a Weekend Warrior
from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: November 7, 2003
Favorite Trail:
??? just urban
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$320.00
Purchased At:
pinkbike (used)
Strengths:
-Looks so nice itll get you laid in a second -good finish and did i mention looks -Comes with Ecc (extension control cartridge) -Qr20 Plus is a charm -external rebound and preload (which work very well) -V brakes AND disc compatible
Weaknesses:
-a bit flexy -slightly heavy
^^^^^^^^ LIEK IT REALLY MATTERS!
Similar Products Used:
Dirtjumper 3 (2003) Exr-comp (2003) POS Insync Grind 320 (2003) Junior t (2003) Some rocky mountain thing
blahblahbalah
Bike Setup:
Trek 4100- heavily upgraded (2004)
Bottom Line:
Get this fork you cant go wrong itll make anyone happy and so far is absolutely flawless
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kelly
a
from Upstate NY Date Reviewed: July 31, 2003
Favorite Trail:
shindagin & plattekill
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Universalcycles
Strengths:
It works and works and works & has not broken, and it will take an eight inch rotor (I know, I'm not supposed to do that with a qr).
Weaknesses:
weight, I suppose, and a bit of oil leak from stantion/crown junction
Similar Products Used:
chubby
Bike Setup:
Mountaincycles San Andreas, Risse Jupiter-5, xt disc hubs & avid mechanical 8 inch rotors f&R, tires = some dh (gazz, intense intruders sr), some intermediate (nokian core) and some xc (conti verticals), Love seat, rfxo post & good 'ol red 636's.
Bottom Line:
It works great. I'm 230 & ride stupid and it continues to work. 5 footers to flat concrete (cased one & bent wheel, rotor & stem, but fork is aok). Plattekill ('nuff said). Lots of xc in the northeast (read: rocky/rooty). I put in one marzocchi firm spring & one mountainspeed xfirm, and Belray 15 weight oil & I'm in heaven. Took a while to break in, and is now as plush as, well, I can't say it here. Re climbing, my frame is a bit small for me, so the ecc thingy is just the remedy, and allows me to climg with my 170 lb friends. Recently I was trolling for loading dock drops behind a plaza at dusk & there was excavation, so I rode through it, and when I was about 5 feet away I saw a wire - jumped on the brakes, nose wheelie that I held for what seemed like 5 seconds - the fork told me it liked it that way. What a great product. It is not free, but it really is fun.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rog
a Cross Country Rider
from Spokane, WA USA Date Reviewed: July 26, 2003
Favorite Trail:
West Shore Trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Quality, ride, strength.
Weaknesses:
Not nearly as good as the 03 model. Mine makes a clicking noise.
Similar Products Used:
Z1 1999, 2001, 2003, Manitou Black Elite.
Bike Setup:
Intense Uzzi SLX w/5th Element, XTR, Easton.
Bottom Line:
I liked the fork until I upgraded to the 2003 model. The 99 through 02 models seemed basically the same, but the 03 is defintiely a next generation product. My 02 fork had a clicking noise during compression. I was without my fork for 6 weeks, then Marzochhi returned it unrepaired. (I purchased the 03 because I wanted to ride my bike during that time.) I called Marzocchi, and they were very reluctant to give me another RA number, but they eventually did. I had no confidence that it would be repaired after another 6-weeks, so I sold it cheap to a co-worker that said he didn't care about the noise. I would recommend this fork only if you cannot afford an 03.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Giuliano
a Weekend Warrior
from Italy Date Reviewed: May 8, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Strengths:
Strong, plush, lockable.
Weaknesses:
A bit flexy, quite heavy (2.05Kg), no compression damper adjustment, no boots, quite expensive.
It's very soft and plush. Perhaps this fork is too big for my hardtail bike, but it works fine. It adsorbs everything and I can go uphill on trails with stairs quite easily. No need to lift the front weel at every root. The ECC also works fine and it's VERY useful when you ride on road. If I don't lock it, the bike bobs way too much. It flexes more than I expected, but it isn't annoying. It's definitely a good fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick
a Cross Country Rider
from North Vancouver Date Reviewed: January 10, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Great fork typical for Marzocchi.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Z-1's, Z-3's, etc.
Bike Setup:
Norco 2002 Fluid XTR/XT/Raceface/Blackspire
Bottom Line:
I orignally was going to order the Z-1 Freeride but decided once my forks are set-up I no longer have any need for the plethora of adjustments which are possible with this fork. Therefore I ordered the Drop-offs and the heavy spring kit. I got the forks and put them on thinking I'd have to wait for the heavy springs before I could ride as, I'm 230lbs. I've had to with every other coil Marzocchi I've ever owned . To my surprise they were perfect as is. Upon talking with Norco's (Canadian distributor) tech support folks, I found out they now spec the heavy springs as standard for us hard riding Canadians. Therefore I've saved money! Way to go, NORCO
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brown Teeth
a Cross Country Rider
from Lost Coast California Date Reviewed: January 4, 2003
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
speedgoat
Strengths:
Trouble free AND easy to maintain and works out of the box with no breakin and no silly lube holes. Oil over coli is what god rides. Can there be a reason? Is he lazy? Oh my
Weaknesses:
Bit of flex but doesn't hurt the ride I'm tall and 200 lbs so running the fork at the end of the uncut streerer might be in play
Similar Products Used:
manachews, fox (has potential but give it a year or two)
Bike Setup:
Latest is a late 2002 Marin attack, with no tool adjustable 4/5/6 travel, also use only King headsets they are the bomb!
Bottom Line:
Love the z-1, my old 00's still going strong so I was happy to drop $350 on a late 2002. Plush and while it has a bit less flex at 30 mm works well as a trail fork for larger people. Can't go wrong unless your hucking huge and don't have a clue, if that's your MO go monster and get ready to be passed on the way up.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
steven Trottier
a Downhiller
from north carolina Date Reviewed: November 24, 2002
Favorite Trail:
urban
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
a friend
Strengths:
well i broke this fork going off a 5 foot wall drop to flat. snapped in two. but before that this fork was great nice smooth travel and it seemed strong.?
Weaknesses:
broken the top if the stanchions both snapped off. not very strong.
Similar Products Used:
i have never broken a fork before, so i have never used one like this. probobly getting something bigger like a monster or a super t.
Bike Setup:
24 le toy 3, fsa bmx,new fork on the way.
Bottom Line:
my fork broke and now i have to wait and see what marzocchi is going to do about it. i liked it wile it lasted. any fork should stand up to a 5 foot drop.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Crazy Jake
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver, BC Date Reviewed: November 20, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Boogieman
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Looks so great it can get your rod stroked
Weaknesses:
Sometimes a bush pig wants to stroke yer rod... no thanks
Similar Products Used:
Manitou Supernova, Z1 MCR
Bike Setup:
Brodie Holeshot, mostly stock... mostly.
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is, gentlemen, if you want to get yer knob sucked as often as possible, but the Marzocchi Z1 Freeride. Hell, they'll even lick yer poo poo if you ask 'em to. This fork is genuinely impressive.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam
a Downhiller
from Massachusetts Date Reviewed: November 6, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Vietnam
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$550.00
Purchased At:
Belmont Wheelworks
Strengths:
It is very strong for a single crown fork. It has taken many five or so foot drops and lots of dirt jumping. Definatley worth the price I paid for it.
Submitted by
Steve Guderyan
a Weekend Warrior
from Nanaimo BC Canada Date Reviewed: October 17, 2002
Favorite Trail:
The Abyss
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$325.00
Purchased At:
Pacific Rim Bicycle
Strengths:
Awesome Fork Feels Nice to ride And Looks Good
Weaknesses:
Nothing Yet
Similar Products Used:
Manitou, Rock Shox
Bike Setup:
norco Nitro Z1 FR, Axiom Riser bars, Single digit 7 V brakes, Ritchey SPD, Wheel Tech(rocky mtn) wheels
Bottom Line:
Gives you a very smooth ride cant even feel some decent sized bumps every thing is adjustable so there are no nasty rebounds un less you want them, A bit big for the nitro frame cuz im only soppost to have 3" travel but it gets looks and comments
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Smith
a Downhiller
from North Providence, RI Date Reviewed: October 4, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Everywhere but Pavement
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$340.00
Purchased At:
Speedgoat
Strengths:
This thing is awesome. I can hardly feel Medium sized rocks in the trail.. None of that space project rebound. Great fork, best 350 ive ever spent. Its a bomber..
Weaknesses:
Well, its got this little sucking noise if i listen to it hard enough.. but.. i cant hear it when im bombing down hills or anything while riding.........so it doesnt really matter.
Similar Products Used:
RST Something Xl or whatever(the ultimate piece of crap) RockShox Duke XC
Bottom Line:
Its a beastly fork, i cant believe how plush it is.. Nice travel. NO REBOUND FROM HELL.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill Cosby
a Downhiller
from Utah Date Reviewed: October 1, 2002
Favorite Trail:
the one behind my house
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$420.00
Purchased At:
my friends house
Strengths:
has never bottomed out. No problems. Not even ecc.
Weaknesses:
Makes top out noises.
Similar Products Used:
Manitou Magnum (awesome) and SYNC (sucks).
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Bullit. full xt, vanilla rc, Hayes hydros, and you can't forget the best parts the primo pros and the Ruffian lock-ons.
Bottom Line:
Great fork but I am going to get something with more travel.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Harry Hackett
a Downhiller
from Southampton, England Date Reviewed: September 11, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Rogate
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$399.00
Purchased At:
hardgrooves Cycles
Strengths:
Works well Looks good i love that blue Marzocchi quality
Weaknesses:
Flexy I think i've cracked them somewhere there making that horrible cracking noise! Oh and the adjusters fell off.
Similar Products Used:
Psylo Sl, XC, Z1 Cr, MCR, MQR 20 etc.
Bike Setup:
Kona Stab, Marzocchi Z1 Freeride ECT, Doublewide on hope bulb, Doubletrack 24" on hope bulb, Hope C2's, Easton, Middleburn, Race Face etc.
Bottom Line:
Ok, I ordered a set of Marzocchi Z1 MQR 20's, when they arrived they had evidently been used :-( and had no axel therefore i sent them back. My good friend nick lent me his Z1 Freerides which are a very nice fork and i was impressed with them. Even though i thought they were a little flexy (probaly cos im used to bolt thru). Good fork. Oh and by the way when i sent my MQR's back they had run out of them so they are sending me some 2003 forks at trade!!!! How cool.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Konacopia
a Weekend Warrior
from L.A. Date Reviewed: August 27, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Da Bumps
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$409.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Very Stiff Very Plush Adjustability that works Quality build
Weaknesses:
A bit heavy QR20 system is not exactly "quick"
Similar Products Used:
Manitou, RockShox
Bike Setup:
Kona Stuff
Bottom Line:
Well after riding a Manitou X-vert R DC a friend gave me, I finally broke down and bought into the Bomber movement. It has to be one of the best decisions I've ever made. This thing actually works! The 5" of travel is really plush and holds up well to my big clydesdale self. Although I've bottomed this thing out on occasion (not very easy to do), it didn't feel harsh or jar anything loose which can't be said about alot of forks out there (I'm sure Extra Heavy springs would solve this). The 20mm axle makes a big difference in carving turns and responds well to quick input without the usual torsion deflection from standard axled forks. This from a single crown!
I bought this from Supergo which has a sale on some good forks right now. It was either between this or a Fox Vanilla which looked really good too. I had the salesman bring me out a Fox and a Marzocchi (which happened to be the last one) to compare. After looking at both of the forks I asked his opinion on which would be the better fork for freeride/urban riding. He promptly packaged up the Fox and took it back into the storeroom. This guy actually sold me the cheaper fork so this guy gave an actual hard opinion rather than try to sell me the pricier bit. He rang me up and back home I went to check out the fork. Upon inspection at home, I realized he gave me a QR20 version instead. I was kinda bummed since I had to relace the wheel with the supplied hub then I realized that I bought a $550 fork for $409! Talk about savings. Anyway, thanks to the Supergo guy for a great recommendation on the Marzocchi's and the unintended extra discount! You can't go wrong with this fork. Especially at this price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle Date Reviewed: August 7, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Frankford Bike
Strengths:
Marzocchi is the best! I had concerns about the little knob that controlls the ecc. they are sending me an aluminum one for free!!! - see previous review
Weaknesses:
None now
Similar Products Used:
Manitou etc...
Bottom Line:
Great company and a great fork. This is an update from the review below. I called them about the ecc lever cracking and being weak and they are sending me an aluminum one. Highly recomend...whish the thing shipped with aluminum.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle Date Reviewed: August 7, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
http://frankfordbike.com
Strengths:
Great fork really stiff, ECC is great.
Weaknesses:
the littel lever on the top could be stronger but small thing in comparison to the great fork
Similar Products Used:
Manitou - lot of them
Bike Setup:
Yeti AsX
Bottom Line:
Great fork. stiff and durable I highly recommend it the guys at Frankford were great!! the things looks good too!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Presto
a
from Calgary, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: July 29, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
A Bike store
Strengths:
Stiff lowers results in reduced front and back jog, unlike other single crown forks from Marzocchi. Stock with heavy springs. Rubber seal between M Arch and lowers to alleviate creaking. Lock out at bottom of travel
Weaknesses:
The Price (QR20): MRSP $1249 The Rock Shox Psylo SL is $1200 but if you are a freerider... when are you ever going to use 3"? Also... It has an abuseable feature, lockout.
Similar Products Used:
2002 Rock Shox Pyslo SL Tuillo
Bike Setup:
2002 Norco S'quatch w/ Shimano XT 8" rotor(F) 6" rotor(R), FUNN, Sun DoubleTracks F&R, IRC Kujo DH 2.65 & 2.35 and more
Bottom Line:
I feel this fork is the best fork you could buy if you are a freerider who is serious about value for quality. The Extension Control Cartridge (ECC) System locks out the travel about 1" from the crown and I have heard that some riders have thought that once it is in this position that it can be used for trials and such. However, this is not true as this is a feature that was intended to aid with climbing to reduce the notorious bobbing that occurs when you try to stand abve your bar to get up shot or long climbs. The ECC in this case should not be abused or used for a purpose iother then recommended. THis is probably the first time that any company can really say that they mena what the say. Really, this fork is by far the one of the best SC forks on the market because of it's overall strength and ajustability. I think that the only thing that would make it better would be to build it up with the uppers (Crown, Stanchions, and springs) from a DJ1 to get the thicker stanchion wall. Maybe next year.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bob
a Cross Country Rider
from katy texas usa Date Reviewed: July 26, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$550.00
Purchased At:
I don't know if I should tell
Strengths:
WOW! that's the first thing I have to say about the fork. I have only had it installed for 2 days, but I am just so excited and inpressed with the fork that I have to give it a preliminary review. It's so stiff, so responsive (already) and looks nice. Plus, it says Marzocchi! I like the ECC and 5 inches of travel too.
Weaknesses:
I wish the decals were tougher
Similar Products Used:
nothing in this price range before (a 2000 Judy Race, what a piece of crap). unresponsive ride, couldn't get 100mm tavel, sloppy sloppy. seals didn't keep anything out, just a nice looking pogo stick.
Bike Setup:
2000 i-drive frame, crossrocs, pythons, xtr v-brakes, avid ti levers, kore, titec, greaseguard, over priced xtr chain
Bottom Line:
The first time I went over a bump with the fork (a small curb on my driveway), I literally could not feel it. sure, I felt the handlebars twitch a little, but I truly did not feel the bike raise AT ALL. I know it sounds incredible, but it is true. I haven't seen much info on the HSCV damper, but Marzocchi has done something incredible with the damping system. I have not even broken in the fork yet, so I can't even imagine what it would feel like on some roots or washboards. Following the advice of a trusted friend who has an Atom Race, I went with the Z.1, and have no regrets. My only frustration? When the local shop (Cycle Spectrum, must have some idiots working there) installed my fork, someone who must have no knowledge of the beauty NOT TO MENTION THE COST of the fork dropped it on some sharp object, probably a truing stand, and gouged 4 small holes in the surfave of the sliders, which pissed me off. I suppose I could raise hell and ask them for some money, but screw them, see if I EVER GO THERE for maintainence again. I guess it just shows how much you love a fork when even a few scratches pisses you off.
DON'T LET UNSKILLED AND NAIVE MECHANICS INSTALL YOUR FORK! you're better off doing it yourself, I hope the mechanic that dropped my fork feels like crap if he reads this.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kev shipp
a Downhiller
from surrey, england Date Reviewed: July 21, 2002
Favorite Trail:
wisley
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$309.00
Purchased At:
wades cycles
Strengths:
they are very good, when they dont SNAPPP
Weaknesses:
bloomin heck do i really need to answere this, they are dodgy.u may think i lye when i say this, but i have snapped the stansions of mine, yo other guys who havnt snapped them must be not very good, bcoz the biggest drop i have eva done on them is 6 foot to concrete and about 8 foot to mud
Bottom Line:
the stansions snapped of a urban assult drop and snapped just under the crown. because if this my face was in a collision course with the ground- many stiches i had do not get them in 130 coz that could have been why mine snapped
they were also only 8 months old!!!!1
they dont even deserve i chili in overall, coz they snapped and made me get stiches and made me bleed all over my nice 24-7 top
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Falcão
a Downhiller
from Porto, Portugal Date Reviewed: July 11, 2002
Favorite Trail:
"Sé" stairs
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
ECONAUTA
Strengths:
The suspension of Goods trails! Amazing travel for big drops and ECC for the climbs... can`t discribe it. HSCV really works, the sensivity is really... how can I saw... powerfull?! Sensitive?! ya, thants it, sensitive.
Weaknesses:
Your`re kidding me!!!
Similar Products Used:
Monster T (with less travel) Z1 Drop Off (2001)
Bike Setup:
Kona dudu 2000; Z1 FR; Hayes 8"; XTR; BlackSpire chain device; Roox DH cranks; D-321 Rims; etc...
Bottom Line:
is a fork for all around plays, for XC competition and for DH descends! it`s a little heavy but it works! and who cares the 2050Kg??? first of all it`s a Marzocchi and those forks are built to resiste all the time, independently the weather conditions or the riders weight or even the trails you choose! second it`s gives you security and confidence; you konw that it will not break... Buy one, enjoy yourself and enjoy your world...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
abachnoula
a Weekend Warrior
from laval QC Canada Date Reviewed: June 28, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
came with my bike
Strengths:
All you can imagine, very stiff, very plush, absorb anything like hell, 130mm, ...
Weaknesses:
it doesnt clen by itself
Similar Products Used:
2001 Z.3 100mm, black elite 100/120
Bike Setup:
2002 Rocky mtn Slayer
Bottom Line:
this fork is the best I ever own. I dont have it for very long but it's very stiff, soooooo plush like all other marzocchi... the ECC is great when you want to climb, and it climb very well. I will always go with Marzocchi!!!!!!!they are simply te best!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dr Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Ulverston,Cumbria England Date Reviewed: June 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
birkrigg Common Ulverston
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$180.00
Purchased At:
Leisue Lakes,Preston
Strengths:
Will not break,built like a tank.Very smooth and fully usable 5" travel.Ecc allow you to climb easily and if partly closed allows better road riding when going to your trails
Weaknesses:
Nil
Similar Products Used:
RST 381R(boing boing boing),Marzocchi Z3(2001)excellent and Cannondale Lefty with ELO(over-rated but technically interesting)
Bike Setup:
Marin Wolf Ridge 2002(Uk Spec),stock except Z1 Fr`s,Hope Enduro 4`s(most excellent!),Mavic D321`s and Panracer Fire XC pro rear tyre
Bottom Line:
Plush,bomb proof freeride fork.
Does exactly what it`s ment to with no complaints.
Ecc allows all day all trail usage and makes this bike climb really well.
Only other contender in this catagory is Fox(price? Ouch!).
Read reviews of Manitou RATs(they break)and what is the point of Rock Sux U-turn if it`s plastic and breaks all the time?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Taras
a Cross Country Rider
from Kyiv, Ukraine Date Reviewed: June 17, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$480.00
Purchased At:
velokiev.com
Strengths:
Smooth, plush, lots of travel, ECC, looks... What else a fork should have?
Weaknesses:
None discovered
Similar Products Used:
Z1 Wedge 2002, Manitou Magnum R, Suntour crap
Bike Setup:
Hardtail with XT/XTR mixed drive train and Marzocchi Z1 FR
Bottom Line:
Excellent fork for both freeride and cross country. In my opinion this is the best compromise on the market for the kind of riding I do. Sometimes I do small drops, sometimes I ride up on to the stairs, sometimes I do technical cross country trails - fork shows itself perfectly in all conditions. This is a fork designed not for racing (too heavy? Who cares!), but for fun riding. If you have the money - buy it, you won't regret it. 5 chillies overall and 3 for value - this is a pretty expensive toy. Almost forgot, - ECC rules!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Smith
a Downhiller
from North Shore Date Reviewed: June 13, 2002
Favorite Trail:
sweet sixteen
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Jacks Cycle
Strengths:
Very strong and reliable,dope rebond
Weaknesses:
Way to plush bottoms out of 5 footers need to upgrade to stiffer springs,to pricey
Similar Products Used:
Z.1 mcr
Bike Setup:
Kona Roast with fr's,shimano deore xt derailleurs,turbine crank,gazzoladi tire ect.....
Bottom Line:
This is truly one of the best forks i'v had just to exspensive!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nick Lin
a Downhiller
from Santa Cruz, CA Date Reviewed: May 30, 2002
Favorite Trail:
any stairs cases
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$360.00
Purchased At:
can't tell you
Strengths:
Amazing action, superb compliance, buttery smooth first 3 inches, ultra tunable progression at the end of the stroke by amount of oil, ecc, and best of all, Bomber
The sickest single crown fork ever, this side of universe. Well, I had two 2001 Psylo XC, and believe me, don't buy them(see my review in 2001 Psylo XC) It makes you a better rider, because no matter how soft the first two inches are, it does not bottom out. HSCV works, dude. Happy trails.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gary White
a Cross Country Rider
from London, UK Date Reviewed: May 29, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Old Springs Trail, Marin, Ca
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Cycle Surgery, London, UK
Strengths:
Very strong - they feel unbreakable. Lateral stiffness and very plush travel once bedded in.
Weaknesses:
Weight, fiddly ECC control.
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi Z2 & X-Fly
Bike Setup:
Cove Stiffee FR (17" frame) , XTR/XT cassette, shifers and mechs, Race Face North Shore cranks with 44/32/22 rings, Hope C2 brakes, Mavic F519 rims and Hope Bulb hubs (front thru-axle), Panaracer 2.1 trailblaster, Easton EA50 stem, bar and seatpost, Koobi SI saddle
Bottom Line:
I an not really into freeriding - this is my heavy duty cross-country bike. The forks go really well with the frame. The forks can handle anything that you chuck at them - their ability outweighs that of the frame (and the rider - well this one at least) and hence inspire great confidence. The forks do make the bike sit up quite high, so consider using a short stem. Considering the 130mm travel, steering is surprisingly good - highly recommended.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob Philip
a Cross Country Rider
from Edmonton Alberta Canada Date Reviewed: May 26, 2002
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
Way Past Fast
Strengths:
Overall exellent guality, great looks, on the fly extention control, lots of adjustment that really works.
Weaknesses:
The ecc cartridge can be finnicky. Most of the time it works flawlessly, but sometimes you have to re-close/tighten the valve once you have compressed it to ensure it doesent creep back up.
Similar Products Used:
Most shocks out there.
Bike Setup:
Cove Stiffee frame with hayes, 20 mm. axel sun rhyno lite rims.
Bottom Line:
This fork is by far the best on the market. The extention controll feature is the best thing since knobby tires; thnaks to it I now have a freeride bike that happens to climb better than my buddies xc bike, the shock will lock down so low that only obout one inch of stantion tube is showing! This makes a dramatic improvement in the climbs. I had forgotten how incredibly efficeint a ridgid bike can be on climbs, not to mention the low down climbing stance it provides. Hopefully they will perfect it in the future. In addition the fork is very stiff, has tons of rebound damping adjustment, and looks very nice.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Troy
a Cross Country Rider
from Kendal UK Date Reviewed: May 8, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$355.00
Purchased At:
wheelbase - staveley
Strengths:
Z1's - what more can I say
Weaknesses:
Could do without being bonded at the arch if anything. Heavy
Similar Products Used:
Z1CR's, Z1 Bam, Z2 Atom Race, Z2 Bam
Bike Setup:
2001 Bullit, XT/XTR
Bottom Line:
These forks are ace. Rebound is superb and very, very plush. Take time to bed in - but once they are work like a dream. I haven't broken them - and that means they work!!
The price I paid was in £ sterling and not those dollar things.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jimbean
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin Date Reviewed: March 27, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Richardson Bike Mart
Strengths:
Plush... decently stiff... tunable...
Weaknesses:
We'll see
Similar Products Used:
Judy XC... Atom Race
Bike Setup:
two weheels and a frame
Bottom Line:
I'd say this fork is an ideal long travel cross country fork. I can notice some flex on it if I really go out of my way to torque it, but when riding, it keeps me going in the right direction away from trees, walls, and dogs. I don't do huge drops or race so I can't say how it holds up to those rigors, but for my rocky, swoopy, small-drop trails, it works fine. I can illustrate the plushness of the fork by dropping the front wheel unweighted and getting no bounce back. It's got great small bump sensitivity and does not bottom in normal conditions. Tuning is done with simple knobs on the top of each leg and a small screw on the right leg for rebound. Unlike some forks, there is noticable changes in the rebound tuning so it can be fine-tuned for different terrain and riders. If you've outgrown three inch forks but don't want to go all out freeride, then the Z.1 FR would be an ideal candidate.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Downhiller
from Shrewsbury MA USA Date Reviewed: February 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Floral
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Landrys
Strengths:
Great Shox they kick ass nasty rebound. They are so strong they will never break. I have done so many nasty 5+ foot drops
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox Psylo
Bike Setup:
Azonic Eliminator DH Frame with: Marzocchi Z1 FR Hayes 8' Hydraulic Shimano XTR All Round
Bottom Line:
Kick Ass Shox
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wil
a Downhiller
from Pueblo,CO Date Reviewed: January 31, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Bartlett's Wash
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
MountainCycles.com
Strengths:
Fairly Stiff in Yaw Direction with QR20 Super Plush ECC is very nice on short technical climbs
Weaknesses:
Weak Stock Springs (I weigh 200 lbs) Weak Heavy Springs (I only weigh 200 lbs) Isn't as stiff as I would have thought Kind of cheese-z 20mm hub design with respect to the bolted on wrap arches Bank
Similar Products Used:
Owned (Marzocchi Z-4, Rock Shox Judy XC, Rock Shox Mag 10) Tested many more
Bike Setup:
2001 Santa Cruz Bullit w/ Fox Vanilla RC, Mar Z1-FR QR20, Hope Bulb Front Hub, XT, Race Face Turbine ISIS, Thomson Stem and Seatpost, etc.
Bottom Line:
This fork is pretty nice for the kind of riding I do. I like doing drops, but only up to 5 or so feet. I like doing long rides (40 miles) and this bike is great for that. My bike setup is pretty heavy compared to a lot of people's bikes (33 lbs), but I have not broken a thing in a long ass time. If you weigh anywhere near 200 lbs, send away and get the heaviest springs possible. I think these springs are still a little weak though. Also get the QR20, for the extra money and weight, it is worth the steering precision, which is wonderful, but I am sure a hell of a lot better than the non QR20. ECC is a great idea. I use it at least once a ride, mainly up really steep uphills, as it feels like my whole bike is locked out. Overall if you got the money, but it. Much better than anything Rock Shox or Manitou could put out.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jadyn
a Weekend Warrior
from Ashland, OR, USA Date Reviewed: January 29, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
-This fork with QR20 Plus system is a very stiff and strong combo -Very nice feel to the travel -ECC is neat, but I doubt I'll ever use it!
Weaknesses:
-Bolt on crowns seemed better... -Really expensive: msrp $625, but Pricepoint has 'em for $500
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi Z5-piece of crap!
Bike Setup:
2001 kona stinky, full disc, rhynos, Z1 etc
Bottom Line:
This fork is really nice so far...such a difference from my last one! The travel is plush and the fork is stiffer than the Jr. T. I have had much more confidence on drops since I got this fork. Just recently, I took it off a 12 foot drop several times and it performed perfectly!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy Sharples
a Weekend Warrior
from Milton Keynes Date Reviewed: January 21, 2002
Favorite Trail:
9feet.com Afan Argoed Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Freeborn.com
Strengths:
Plush, Bombproof, ECC and 130mm of reliable travel
Weaknesses:
A little on the heavy side.
Similar Products Used:
Fox Vanilla
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth Isis, Marzocchi Z1 FR (4 turns on the rebound is perfect for me @ 168lbs), Fox Vanilla R, XT
Bottom Line:
An exceptional fork for an exceptional bike. Highly recommended for extreme xc riding. The ECC eliminates bob when climbing standing up and perfectly reduces the 130mm travel when climbing steep technical single track. I think the ECC and proven reliability of the Z1 outweighs the weight saving offered by the Fox Vanilla.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sam
a
from shouldnt matter Date Reviewed: January 12, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
belmont wheel works
Strengths:
travel- 130mm. it is plush but doesnt seem to bottom out. doesnt flex. Super strong. weight is no problem. it has easy adjustmaents and ecc, which has worked fine for me, but i dont use it much.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
z.5, rock shox jett xc, z.1 mcr
Bike Setup:
p.3, tomac tenacious d, tru vativ 5mm chain ring, irc kujo dh tires, z.1 freeride, other wise stock
Bottom Line:
great fork. in my opinion the best singlew crown freeride fork ever, other then the shiver sc. if you freeride or urban assult this is the fork for you. you can use it for a bit of xc, but it isnt something i would buy for xc racing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Davide
a Cross Country Rider
from San Francisco Date Reviewed: December 7, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
I recently purchase my second Z1 (the first one a 1996 whihc is now on my hardtail) after a long (interal!) debate between Z1, Atom Bomb, and Fox Vanilla. This is why I got it:
Weight: it is actually in the same range of comparable (100 to 130mm) offerings from Fox (Vanilla) and Rock Shock (Psylo) (see, e.g., weightweenies.starbike.com), that is 1900 grams plus or minus 100 (+-5%).
Rigidity. It is a really rigid fork, which tracks with extreme precision. The magnesium M-arch and little details like longer sturdier brake bosses are improvement in respect to older models.
Reliability. My 1996 Z1 is still working perfectly, all I had to do in 5 years was to change the seals once, I expect the new one to be as reliable. All the other forks I owned in the last five years (Judy, SID) disintegrated to different extents. Parts are easily available, and (almost unheard of in the industry), they fit from year to year. Example, the seals of a the 2002 lineup are all the same they fit forks as far back as 1996!
Adjustability: spring preload, rebound, different spring weight (including factory progressive), and oil level allow a perfect set up. The fork is really easy to work on, removal of one top bolt gains access to the internals.
My set up: Progressive (orange) spring, 55 mm (from top) oil, 4 turns rebound, 4 turns preload.
Slow speed performance: nothing seem to exist. If my STS rear suspension was as effective as the front I would just be floating over the terrain.
Fast speed: at my weight, 150 pounds, it is really really difficult to upset this fork. The GT works really well at a faster pace and the combination of the two (fork+bike) is quite exceptional.
Travel-reduction/EEC: I think the EEC is the best travel reduction system on the market. It is not a lock out, but effectively reduces the length of the fork on an uphill while retainin bumb absorption capability. A travle reduction system is what you want, especially if your fork has more than 100 mm travel. A lock out on a long travel (>100) is not that useful and it might be detrimental: it puts you in the worst possible position for climbing, exacerbating the "chopper effect". Rock-shock U-turn or the ECC are the way to go.
Weaknesses:
It would be nice to have a compression adjustment dial. A beefier magnesium construction (right now only the crown is magnesium) might improve rigidity even further (for the same weight).
Similar Products Used:
Rock shock Judy, SID, Psylo, Fox Vanilla, Marzocchis
Bike Setup:
GT STS
Bottom Line:
the Z1 is still an exceptional fork which keeps getting better. You simply cannot go wrong with this product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BoB Hoad
a Downhiller
from Derby Date Reviewed: December 6, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Bestwood
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Looks, plush &progressive travel, good lockout and its very stiff, adjustable travel
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Z5's, Z3's and Z1fr's
Bike Setup:
Orange MsIsle(da bomb) set up for dirt with hope disks
Bottom Line:
This fork blows the competition out of the water, Marzocchis are just too heavy and they bottom out too easily. theses forks are very reliable and it is really usefull to be able to adjust the travel (the lockout is good for road too) You will not find better forks, so don't buy Marzocchi crap, by good stuff
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
simon smith
a Downhiller
from nottingham england Date Reviewed: December 2, 2001
Favorite Trail:
anything with jumps, drops and downhill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$449.00
Purchased At:
winstanleys
Strengths:
Looks, plushness, lock out, 5 inches of travel, no flex, reliable (marzocchi all over)
Weaknesses:
None!!!!!!!!
Similar Products Used:
Physlo sl (nice idea on lockout but mine broke) and z1 drop offs
Bike Setup:
dirt frame, z1 freerides, xt, azonic hope etc.
Bottom Line:
Better than any other 5 inch forks i've tried and looks to die for. this is a great fork for jumping, deul and a bit of uk downhilling, and the lock out helps to get places.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
greg o'neill
a Downhiller
from summerland Date Reviewed: November 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
so many out there to try
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
freedom bike shop
Strengths:
Looks sharp as always, really easy to take apart and assemble again, if your a cross country rider gettign into freeride- you'll dig the lock out option. And the warranty is amazing I have to admit, very fast.
Weaknesses:
I don't know why people in this industry always have to re-invent the wheel just to keep the product looking fresh and to insure sales. This shock was very high on my list until they changed it. 4 problems: lock out option has almost broken my neck by landing with it on by mistake after bumping it or what ever, causing it to turn into a rigid front on landing. 2 the stanctions are now fused to the crown unlike last years where you undo four bolts and the stanctions pop loose. this makes for alot of creeks and groans when ever you do nose manuals or flicks, very scary sound that takes my trust away from it's strenght. 3 Those friggen bottom caps for the 20mml axles just make for even more flex in the fork and if you loose one it's $125 canadian to replace (supply and demand)for a $10 peice. They shouldn't be telling everyone thAt you can ride the fork without the caps in place. That is a huge liability for them, your tire will pop right off with enough impact and side pressure since if you look the axle only has 55% of it actually covered by the fork unlike last year when it was 80%and sucked in tight.. 4 The fused crown looks cool but is too tightly angled if you want to run a 2.7 up front and you end up tweaking your rim out on a landing it will get pinched and you fly. Remember the old ones where if you wanted to increase teh hight of the crown you just take it off and buy another! I know I sound bitter, it's just that I have lost both my bottom caps already and have to pay $250 to replace and with all the flex in this fork I have yet to really huck it like I used to on my old set up because they simply just don't have the balls to take it. And I guess I may aswell mention that it tends to be very slow if you add anything heavier than stock oil in these forks, usually I throw in 10 weight and 220- 260 springs but this year it's as light of oil as possible (2.5)or your fork will be asleep on the bumps.
Similar Products Used:
Manitou millenium and x-vert tpc, marrazochi dropoff, z3- 20ml and z1-
Bike Setup:
Brodie Holeshot: 26" alex d32rim with maxxis2.5 tire up front. 24" alex d32 with kujo 3.0 in rear. Race face N shore 175ml splined cranks. Roox handle bar. xt drive train. hayes 8 inch front and back. intense lock grips. cromed out kickstand with matching water bottle.
Bottom Line:
these lines of forks have always rocked and you will love them if you aren't relying on them to be a big hit fork. You shouldn't have to buy a fork from the shop and spend another 200 bucks getting it dialed in to your liking, they should know what people are going to use their forks for and simply beef them up. It really is a good low maintenece fork I recomend it over anything out their if your not into high maintenece performance shocks. Enough bithcing, I'm boring myself too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Yosuke Yamamoto
a Weekend Warrior
from Corvallis, OR, USA Date Reviewed: November 15, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
www.mtnhighcyclery.com
Strengths:
Smooth, plush, ECC works, stiff, 5" of travel!
Weaknesses:
Might be heavy for some folks
Similar Products Used:
2000 Z3 Flylight 100, 1995 Manitou EFC (3")
Bike Setup:
Bullit w/Z1 FR, XT, etc
Bottom Line:
I should probably wait a few more months before I write a review on this product, but I am so excited about it! When I got the 4" bomber last year, I thought that was the plushest thing around...not anymore! That extra inch is amazing, plus the coil performance of the Z1 is outstanding. Very sensitive to small bumps, yet won't bottom on drops. I'd have to say that the fork matches my rear very well. I love it, and definitely recommend it. I suggest talking to Larry at www.mtnhighcyclery.com if interested in this product. I am sure you'll be very satisfied, as I am!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
a Downhiller
from North Shore..British Columbia,Canada Date Reviewed: November 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Nutcracker
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Marzocchi Rep..Product testing
Strengths:
Smooth...no stiction...ECC cartridge...Virtually indestructable and lots of travel.
Weaknesses:
Nada...zip...zero...and a whole lot of Diddly squat
Similar Products Used:
Manitou "X-vert"....Psylo...White Bros...etc
Bike Setup:
2002 Santa Cruz "Bullit"..Marzocchi Z-1 Freeride..Chris King...Raceface...XTR...Basically as High End as one can get without going solid gold.
Bottom Line:
I'm lucky to get my forks directly from Marzocchi for testing purposes. Go figure huh?.....ANYWAYS.....For those who are considering this fork let it be known that your money will be well spent!! After a short break-in period this fork was taking hits that would kill other "extreme" forks,and i've jumped my bike off everything from logs,boulders,stairwells,small animals,my girlfriends car and the occasional XC rider. The ECC cartridge is great!!!! It allows the rider to compress the fork to climb better with NO PEDAL BOB at all,with a flick of a control on the fork you have 5 inches of what appears to be endless travel.The valve design is a plus as well,the faster you go the more it works to smooth out your ride!! Aside from the high price this is a good fork because you'll never have to upgrade in the future and it's basically great for all types of riding....EXCEPT for the XC rider who has kittens when his/her bike exceeds the 5 gram limit...You know who you guys/gals are...and you have my pity :)
5 flamers all around for a great all around fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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