Submitted by
Terence
a Downhiller
from Sydney, NSW, Australia Date Reviewed: November 21, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Friend sold it to me
Strengths:
Travel is supple and plush, well.....comparing it to my crappy 04' judy TT's they were. U-Turn is nice, damping it pretty good aswell. Also, the torsional rigidity was great.
Weaknesses:
The fork has a minimal amount of play between the lowers and uppers, but it DOES flex a bit. Ah....and the bloody seals, they are so gay. Also, the creaky crowns that develope.
Similar Products Used:
Fox Vanilla's, Psylo SL 04', ummmm.....crappy judy?
Bike Setup:
Diamondback BSX sport, stock except for bashguard, fork, and cranks.......and tires....
Bottom Line:
These forks are good if ur on a budget, I got them cheap from a friend who upgraded to vanillas. If you've got some money to spend, spend it on something else, cuz the seals and crowns really let the fork down. If the seals and crowns were better, i'd give it 5 chillis, but since they suck, they deserve 3.5, round that to 3.....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rob birk
a Weekend Warrior
from London Date Reviewed: July 2, 2004
Favorite Trail:
hmm
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
Woolly hat Shop (UK)
Strengths:
Very plus travel and no need to wear in much. Nice look and good travel for long descents.
Weaknesses:
The fork is very weak and flexi. I'm only 140lb (8 stone) but after a year and a half the fork just gave up. They are very weak and can't stand up to much. Can't rely on them holding you up.
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi forks.
Bike Setup:
Trek Bruiser.
Bottom Line:
Stay away from Rockshox as they have built some very weak and dlexible forks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Weekend Warrior
from Banff, AB, Canada Date Reviewed: April 16, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Unfortunately I havn't found any.
Weaknesses:
Already I have had to upgrade to a firm spring kit approx. $80, After a very short period of riding I now have to change my seals, Paint chips easily
Bike Setup:
2002 Devinci Magma
Bottom Line:
The promise of 5 inches of travel sounded appealing but in no way makes up for the overall poor quality of this fork. I expect that an "aggressive" fork like the Psylo should be able to stand up to way more use that than I have got out of it in the last couple of months without dumping all sorts of money in to a fork that already costs upward of $500.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stinkywiz
a Weekend Warrior
from SB CA Date Reviewed: November 12, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Superjokes
Strengths:
5 inches good
Weaknesses:
Seals & Flex
Similar Products Used:
Old 4 inch z-1 etc
Bike Setup:
03Heckler
Bottom Line:
I was introduced to 5 inch travel with this fork. I liked that alot. In two months the damper spewed, after I had already taken steps & purchased the extra firm spring for my 220lb frame (don't even think of installing it yourself $$). It is now on my old hardtail, which has been resigned to road & horsepath duty.
The damping was clumsy & primative feeling from the start & as the fork wore I could detect a noticible "funkiness" in its feel while leaning in. "Funk" is not a good thing in this dept.
I'm actually riding my old Z-1's now 'cause the quality of the travel is that much better. I did like the runs I took down some scary sections when those 5 inches came in handy though.....enough to scrimp & buy either a new z-1 or fox 125r...both running at close to the price I bought this "pedestrian" fork for (w/new spring etc).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jared Johnson
a Cross Country Rider
from Huntington Beach Date Reviewed: October 1, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Rocket
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
eBay (never used)
Strengths:
Decent weight, U-Turn is AWESOME, SUPER DUPER PLUSH, 20mm thru axle feels better
Weaknesses:
Its not a Marzocchi
Similar Products Used:
Judy Race, Black Super (2003), Duke XC (2002)
Bike Setup:
2000 GT Avalanche (before GT tanked), XT and LX components, Hayes HMX-1 disc
Bottom Line:
I have to admit, that the whole time that I was looking for a new fork, I was shopping Marzocchi the whole way. I happened upong this for $130 on eBay, and thought, "Hmmm, what they heck, I could get this a come in well under budget." So with like 5 seconds left I placed my bid not knowing what to expect . . . And so here I am with $15 shipping I ended up with this, a bit of an impulse buy.
Talk about the luck of the draw. This fork is lightyears beyond my 2000 Judy Racer. Some people might say, "Duh," but I am talking about plushness that I have never known before. I have tried the Black Elite and Duke XC, but this takes a cake or TWO. First of all, the U-Turn is incredibly easy AND effective. I am a light weight, so I have had no problems with bottoming out, but I can see that if you weigh more than say 170lbs you may want to invest a few extra dollars on a stiffer coil.
You just can't beat the level of adjustability. The difference from riding one moment at 80mm and then cranking it up to 125mm is dramatic. My Judy went from 2.5in. to 4in, but it doesn't even compare. This fork has restored my faith in Rock Shox.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dazza
a
from Somerset Date Reviewed: September 19, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Strengths:
looks great, very plush, the u-turn adjuster is great to have and 125mm of travel is a great feature! great runner!
Weaknesses:
it dusnt take the hard jumps to well but then its an XC fork!
Similar Products Used:
Rockshox Judy SL on a Gt i-drive Marzocchi MXR
Bike Setup:
Azonic Evolution. Tioga DH stem and handlebars, Hayes Hydraulic discs, Shimano XT/XTR groupset.
Bottom Line:
I would say these forks are great for average weight person, where the travel is great. The springs could be a bit harder but thats affordable to get. i found them very reliable!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
seto
a Cross Country Rider
from boise Date Reviewed: August 21, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
has been a farily good all around fork. u-turn.
Weaknesses:
seals are blown and the revive kit has been discontinued.
Similar Products Used:
marzochi z.2
Bike Setup:
gaint ac2, stumpy m4
Bottom Line:
i've completely lost faith in this company since they've discontinued a much needed part only after one year since the product was released. i think i'll take my business elswhere... uh, marzochi?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marcos Tarazona
a Weekend Warrior
from Bogotá, Colombia Date Reviewed: August 14, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Top secret, it´s a private one
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$195.00
Purchased At:
www.pricepoint.com
Strengths:
5 inches of travel, U-turn adjustment. Excelent for Xc riding and little enduro riding
Weaknesses:
A little noise whit the first jums, but dissapears for the rest.
Similar Products Used:
RST and IN-SYNC crap
Bike Setup:
jamis hardtail, Deore´s shifters, Thomson stem and seat post, XT derailleurs
Bottom Line:
This is a good fork for XC and enduro if you´re not weight worried. It´s not intended for Down Hill use or Abuse. I´ve used in some pretty bad situations (very rocky terrain and jumps) and some technical trials. I have no problem of oil leaking, nothing is borken, just some scratches on the paint that are logical for the use. PLEASE NOTE, EVEN THE BEST PRODUCT COULD BE LIKE CRAP IF YOU USED IT FOR SOMETHING IT WASN´T DESIGNED FOR. If you do XC or enduro and don´t matter weight, this fork is for you; otherwise, don´t buy it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Glenn Meyer
a Weekend Warrior
from hell Date Reviewed: July 27, 2003
Favorite Trail:
anytjing with dirt jumps or drops
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$199.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint.com
Strengths:
2.7 tire clearance, look cool, rock shox name
Weaknesses:
sanction tubes blow, seals blow oil, not strong enough to run large rotor sizes. these forks suck.....need i say more
Similar Products Used:
manitou (better than rock shox)
Bike Setup:
nx 8.1 w avid disc brake race face crank (had psylos) now looking into marzocchi dirt jumper, lx , and gazzoldi tire
Bottom Line:
if u decide to get this fork you had better plan on wearing a full face helmet cause you go on your face from braking the tubes. but i suppose you would be ok if you weigh approx. 50 lbs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt
a Downhiller
from new york Date Reviewed: July 24, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
i wish i didnt buy them
Strengths:
um.... hum after what i have seen and experanced ...... NONE
Weaknesses:
the seals blow oil out after about 6 months of riding then about a year af riding, snap the so called big 30 mm "upper tubs" are like paper thin. of and on the 125 setting with disk the fork will flex
Similar Products Used:
um. better forks
Bottom Line:
dont buy these a swift kick in the ass will feel better than falling on your face after broken sanction. they are fine if you dont do; downhill, freeride, or any single track riding. dont buy rock shox dont buy rock shox dont buy rock shox dont buy rock shox dont buy rock shox dont buy rock shox dont buy rock shox dont buy rock shox
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BIG Matt Freestone
a Cross Country Rider
from Carlisle, Cumbria, England Date Reviewed: July 9, 2003
Favorite Trail:
The Lakes in general
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
OE on 02 Stumpjumper
Strengths:
Super plush, very reliable! Will take a lot of stick. Very rigid too, none of the flex that you get with SIDs. VERY nice forks
Weaknesses:
The paint marks very easily. U-turn would be nice, mine are OE so didn't come with it. Weight is a little high, but it makes a stiff fork.
Similar Products Used:
Judy SL's (the classic 1996 ones!), Psylo XC's, Pace, Manitou, White Bros etc...
Bike Setup:
2002 Specialized Stumpjumper. XC mean machine! Carbon, and more light bits to come.
Bottom Line:
These forks are very stiff, and super plush!!! Don't listen to anyone else (why would you use these forks for anything else but XC/ Enduro style riding??). Very good fork. Could do with being a tad lighter, but then they would suffer from flex (think SIDs). Worth while buying over any fork. Opt for the U-Turn ones though, then you can fiddle to your hearts content!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
fhk fhk
a Downhiller
from fhk Date Reviewed: June 22, 2003
Favorite Trail:
toms x ing
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
fhk
Strengths:
nothing
Weaknesses:
everthing replaced stanchions crown steerer tube rebound stock springs bushings basically these forks are f#*ked
Similar Products Used:
bombers verygood
Bike Setup:
khs b*tch
Bottom Line:
go marzocchi
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
a d
a Racer
from d Date Reviewed: June 12, 2003
Favorite Trail:
down your mother
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1.00
Purchased At:
a dumpser
Strengths:
It is good for up to ten foot drops on to landings. It sucks for 10 foot drops onto flat. Unless u are unusually flaming u shouldnt have a problem doing a drop with this fork.
Weaknesses:
its too good
Similar Products Used:
downhill unicycle
Bike Setup:
a liitle tricycle with training wheels
Bottom Line:
every one else who uses this forak is a homo but me
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Downhiller
from colorado Date Reviewed: June 4, 2003
Favorite Trail:
pipeline
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
supercrap.com
Strengths:
can absorb small bumps well
Weaknesses:
bottoms on 2 footers, blows seals real easy, you can watch it flex back and forth, for little girls under 100 lbs.
Similar Products Used:
tons
Bottom Line:
these forks are super crap. my friends and i all got them thinking they were so cool, untill we discovered how flexy these things are. then after about a month it started bottoming out off any drop over 2 ft, and off jumps, spraying oil all over the place.
THEY SAID THESE THINGS WERE FREERIDE FORKS!!! WHAT CRAP!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Panu
a Downhiller
from Äänekoski, Finland Date Reviewed: June 3, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
U-Turn travel adjustment, smooth
Weaknesses:
Squirts oil too much and gets flexy. Damping system does not work in big hits.
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi Z1 Wedge
Bike Setup:
Giant AC2, Marzocchi Super T Pro, D321, XT
Bottom Line:
Good fork to light freeride/enduro use. You can broke it if you really want. It is not hard to do it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
steve keeney
a Cross Country Rider
from santa ana, Ca, USA Date Reviewed: April 12, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
jax bicycles, Irvine,Ca
Strengths:
Nice smooth, plush travel. Seems stiff and rugged enough. U-turn adjustment is very sweet.
Weaknesses:
Makes a hissing noise when I first start riding, but it goes away after a few small hits. No preload adjustmwnt
Similar Products Used:
elastomer shocks - rock shox Indy C, rock shox Jett C, Manitou Magnum.
This is a huge improvement over any elastomer shock. It is an entirely different type a feeling riding on the psylo compared to cheap elastomer shocks. I weigh about 190 and am using the regular springs, they seem OK. The Psylo is smooth and great at soaking up the rough stuff, not just bouncing over it. If you can find these on closeout, get them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jacob O'Neall
a Downhiller
from Eubank,Kentucky, USA Date Reviewed: March 2, 2003
Favorite Trail:
any thats rough and technical
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
U-turn travel adjustment, very responsive, has rebound adjustment, fairly stiff, durable
Weaknesses:
springs might be to soft for a heavy rider(I weigh about 160-165) Damping doesn't have the quality feel of some forks(Marzocchi)
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi's, a Judy, RST's, Manitou SX-E(came on bike, I'd never spend money on a Manitou)
Bike Setup:
2001 Mongoose Pro Valient, 2002 Psylo, WTB Motoraptor 2.4's, Sun Mammoth rims/WTB Speed XC hubs, Formula Activa mechanical disks, Kore Chain Reactor
Bottom Line:
A good freeride, lght dh,urban and dirtjumping. I've riden mine hard for about a year without a single problem. I use it for five foot drops, some downhills, and some major dirtjumping, and it worked good, but not the absolute best. I'd choose a Z1-SL, or Freeride for all around freeriding as the best fork, but as a trail fork that can handle freeriding, the Psylo is perfect. It's light for a big-hit fork, but plenty capable. I have no complaints. Buy one if you do a combo of trail and stunt riding. You'll have no regrets, but for the absolute best, buy a Marzocchi Z1, or Dirtjumper.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Obet M.C.
a Weekend Warrior
from Kaloocan City, Philippines, Date Reviewed: February 25, 2003
Favorite Trail:
San Mateo Trails
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$199.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Adjustable Travel(U Turn, Smooth ride, Good plush and Rebound, Good Value
Weaknesses:
None so far, seals are still intact. A little bit soft for heavy users.
I've ridden these shocks on technical & non technical trails, doing some jumps & encountered no problems yet. Perfect for regular experienced rider. I'm a little bit worried on the U Turn knobs, some reviews said that they break easily. Ordering of other support and upgrade parts are hard to get here in Asia, we have to order it in the states.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Racer
from Jax., Florida Date Reviewed: February 10, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Razorback
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Very durable, stiff, great price, great adjustability "U-Turn" is awesome.
Weaknesses:
a little heavy for racing (I could easily lose a few lbs. to more than make up for it).
Similar Products Used:
"U-Turn" puts it into a class by itself, Manitou SX-R, Marzocchi Z-3 Airlight 100
Bike Setup:
Specialized Max-Backbone, Mountain Speed long travel kit with Helix Pro, XT shifting and crankset, XTR braking and derailling, Mavic Cross Max, Huthinson Python, Flite Gel, Syncros Head, Ritchie clipless, Psylo.
Bottom Line:
I race my bike cross country with the Psylo(no wimps, its not too heavy). I have other good bikes, but the Psylo has made my Max Backbone my "do everything" bike. From the flatlands of north Fl. to the more extreme terrain of Pisgah and Dupont, this shock out-performs. The "U-Turn" is revolutionary and makes a hugely noticable difference. My typical ride incorporates several 3'-4' hard flat drops and the Psylo easily takes them in stride. I have yet to notice any oil leakage and the stock oil is perfect for my 160# weight. Yes I crash (too frequently) and graphics are in great shape. If you are into 20' dropoffs, or very heavy freeriding get off of your wallet and buy a shock made to take that kind of abuse! Don't berate a terrific shock
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom
a Weekend Warrior
from Newport News, VA Date Reviewed: January 26, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Slickrock
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$195.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Good travel, U-turn is nice, plush feel
Weaknesses:
A bit heavy for the serious XC'er
Similar Products Used:
various
Bike Setup:
Old Fisher hardtail, mostly XT gear
Bottom Line:
I'm not a big downhill/freeride guy, so I can't tell you how it holds on the big drops -- sounds like the jury is still out there based on the reviews. My experience is based primarily on east coast and mid-west twisty singletrack with little elevation change.
For the price, I really like what this shock does for me. Its smooth, with good, responsive travel -- does exactly what a front fork is supposed to do (at least for my type of riding.) Yeah, its a little heavier than your average shock, but if I was worried about weight, I'd drop 15 pounds myself. I'm sure that would do more for my riding than a few oz.s off the fork.
Five flamin' for value, four overall.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Fisher
a
from LA Date Reviewed: January 23, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Sycamore
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Smooth ride, good variation of travel and rebound.
Weaknesses:
Not enough travel, easily broken seals, cheap
Similar Products Used:
Psylo sl, marzocchi marathon
Bike Setup:
Rocky mountain
Bottom Line:
This fork was actually pretty good until i busted it on a 20 foot drop. I thought it was DH but i was wrong. The seals blew open and oil was squirting all over the place. I tried riding it but it felt like i had 200 pound springs, pretty much a rigid fork. If you get this buy stiffer springs or get the race version. I'm upgrading to Boxxers. Hopefully those can handle the drop. I'll go right now.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathan
a Weekend Warrior
from Hali, NS, Canada Date Reviewed: December 4, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Whopper Dropper/Deathmarch
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Bicycles Plus (came stock on Giant AC3)
Strengths:
U-Turn (if you're into it)
Weaknesses:
Stock springs are too soft (I'm 200lb), bottoms easily. Bushings feel loose (I had this checked, apparently it's normal)
This is not a freeride fork. Even after having the "extra firm" springs installed it still bottoms out easily off drops to flat bigger than three feet. The U-Turn feature is cool if you're into aggressive XC riding, I use it for riding on the road to get to trails. Having it on a bike with 6" rear travel is kinda pointless though, I'm hoping to switch it off for a Jr or Super T. Overall the fork may work well for a light beginner freerider or aggressive xc'er, but not for a 200lb rider who isn't super smooth.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Downhiller
from Seattle,WA Date Reviewed: November 27, 2002
Favorite Trail:
sun peaks downhill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
holds up nicely, good plush
Weaknesses:
horrible seals, not really good for experienced dirt-jumping
Similar Products Used:
marzocchi DJ1,manitou sherman
Bike Setup:
norco VPS fluid, hayes disc brakes
Bottom Line:
a good shock for the regular experienced riders, but id doesnt handle the bigger dirt jumps, overall, its just fine. But im not really sure, ive only had them for 3 months
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nathan
a
from Alaska Date Reviewed: November 21, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
U-turn, XXX seals, plush, adjustable
Similar Products Used:
nothing that really compares just cheap forks
Bottom Line:
I did a 9 foot gap from a mound of dirt to the street (a flat landing), and it held up well even though my landing was much less than perfect. Didn't even bottom out cause I only weigh 100 pounds. Good fork for light people, don't know about you heavier people out their.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alec Levet
a Downhiller
from Perth WA Australia Date Reviewed: November 16, 2002
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
jenson usa
Strengths:
Long travel. look cool (for only a little while), kinda good value but what you pay for is what you get. the U-Turn is actually cool, but the travel is always set at the longest it can be anyway.
Weaknesses:
Quite a long list: for one thing the U-Turn cap isnt durable. the fork bottema out very easily. the forks top out some times. theres no point having travel at all if the damn spring is so soft anyway. They looked good for bout a month then the paint peeled all off. Last but probably the worst, when i bottemed the forx i broke the seals and now i have oil everywhere, on my clothes on the floor all over the fork ect.
Similar Products Used:
lame SUNTOUR peices of crap.
Bike Setup:
Warp DS3 wih:DH seat, oury grips, platform peddals and the psylo's. But next year im getting my new Specialized big hit expert with marzoccis(thank god)
Bottom Line:
I reviewed this fork before when i first got it it was good then but crap now. What iv noticed as time goes by, the reviews start off as been all very positive and now the people who have had the fork for over 3 months start to have major problems with it. Coz thats what iv noticed as well, botteming the fork leads to F*cked up seals, and oil leakage all over what would have been a cool fork, a few ecceptions being that the paint corrodes and now my beutful fork is only half painted. if i had got the SL it probably would have been a more positive review. But counting out the bad points it isnt that bad for people who arent that tough on their forks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan Johnson
a
from Laguna, SoCal Date Reviewed: November 11, 2002
Favorite Trail:
steep&Greedy
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Not that much flex. Very plush. Great for low budget downhill
Weaknesses:
Bottoms out on 5ft drops. fork broke out of crown. blew out the seats, I'm only 105Lbs and 14years old
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox Boxer Pro, Suntour piece of crap,Rock Shox Judy, manitou SX.
Great begginer freeride fork and OK dirt Jumping fork
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jared
a Weekend Warrior
from by calgary ab, canada Date Reviewed: November 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
any one that descends
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
ridleys cycle
Strengths:
cant think of any
Weaknesses:
seals, too soft, even the paint scratches too easily
Similar Products Used:
(none)
Bike Setup:
Devinci magma, psylo, (soon to be jr T), hayes hydros, and other decent parts
Bottom Line:
this fork came stock on my bike and it sucks. I blew the seals and now it leaks oil everywhere and its going to cost me to fix it. it is NOT a freeride fork. cross-country and maybe light trail riding is where it might do better, but there are better choices for those categories
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Switch
a
from Coolsville Date Reviewed: November 4, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint.com
Strengths:
U-Turn is great for adjusting travel, good damping system, 3-5 inches of travel, has held up well so far
Weaknesses:
plastic U-turn cap concerns me, but have had no problems yet, I've heard Rockshox has had durablility problems but I've had none so far despite some not so graceful landings
Similar Products Used:
Manitou Axel (complete crap DO NOT GET)
Bike Setup:
Giant Rainier
Bottom Line:
I bought this fork to replace my crappy Manitou fork, and I immediately felt the difference. The overall ride is not overwhelming but is still very good. The U-Turn is really sweet for adjusting travel and head angle. I've heard some bad things about the durability, but I believe it will hold up well. Good fork for stuff 10 feet and under after that it gets a little iffy. Great for dirt jumping.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Max_bike Max_bike
a Weekend Warrior
from Canada Date Reviewed: November 4, 2002
Favorite Trail:
My backyard dirt jumps
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
Local Bike Shop
Strengths:
The Nicest Suspention felling around, Feels like my friends boxxer but just less travel.
Weaknesses:
I havent found one yet, I dont think i'l ever find one there just so simple.
This is the perfect DJing and urban asault fork, It feels sweet and is insaneley predictable. Get one of these forks. youle love it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tracey
a Weekend Warrior
from Black Mtn. NC Date Reviewed: November 3, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Travel adj. works great. Seems to be pretty strong.
Weaknesses:
Not to keen on the 20mm axel. It's threaded, so I worry about gouging the threads.
Similar Products Used:
Psylo SL, Z1
Bike Setup:
IronHorse G-spot,hayes hydro,nokian tires, rhino lite xl
Bottom Line:
I have ridden the XC, and the SL forks for over 6 months and have had no problems with either fork. I really like the U-Turn better than the lock out. None of the forks has had any leaks or parts break off. For the money I enjoy the Rock Shok line.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a Weekend Warrior
from Brisbane, QLD, Australia Date Reviewed: November 1, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Mt Cootha
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Supacycle
Strengths:
Good travel and good ride. U-turn ok.
Weaknesses:
Leaked oil after 3 weeks -in for repairs - leaking again - back again leaking again - still leaking
Similar Products Used:
RST, Bombers
Bike Setup:
Mongoose Pro hardtail
Bottom Line:
I am looking forward to getting rid of them and getting into anything else other than RockShox - I wil not be buying anything else from RockShox for a long time. I am sick of not being able to go for a ride - now rockshox, 6 months down the track, are trying to blame me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Weekend Warrior
from Bonanza (hillbillville) Date Reviewed: October 16, 2002
Favorite Trail:
aint' tellin'
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
price point
Strengths:
nice progressive travel. giant arch. makes my 2.4 motoraptor look dinky. u-turn is pretty lovely.
Weaknesses:
the punny looking crown is a little unnerving, but hasn't given problems. I'm not too wild about the steel steerer.
Similar Products Used:
Marz Z1 wedge (nice) X-vert. other stuff as well.
Bike Setup:
older K2 with carbo swing arm and new shock (poops out about 5") basic stuff. v-brakes.
Bottom Line:
it takes 5 foot drops routinely. No probs. what more can I say? I like it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick Davies
a
from Manchester, UK Date Reviewed: October 14, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$280.00
Purchased At:
www.chainreactioncycles.com
Strengths:
125 mm of travel very plush looks great u-turn ajuster strength
Weaknesses:
cheapo looking crown
Similar Products Used:
rock shox jett
Bike Setup:
specialised hardrock, deore/xt bits
Bottom Line:
Its a great fork but may be a bit soft for a heavier rider doin 20 ft drops and maybe the ajuster knob feels a bit vunerable. If your going to get one get it from www.chainrectioncycles.com theyre cheap and a great company.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben Bilsland
a Weekend Warrior
from England Date Reviewed: October 9, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Quantocks
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Ralph Colmans
Strengths:
Adjustable Cheap (prie above is UK pounds) Looks OK
Weaknesses:
Maybe a bit flexy under hard braking Travel is good, but less plush than a bomber
Similar Products Used:
Judys, Bombers, RST (eeew...)
Bike Setup:
i-drive w/ Hope M4s
Bottom Line:
I like them lots. I ride on real hills (not carved trails) and U-turn is a godsend when faced with a long climb. Its better than lockout because you want the traction... The toher day I was coming down a rocky chute and i crossed right over a huge rut. I closed my eyes and thought I was a goner but the fork just went into this extra inch or two of travel and I was fine. After that my confidence in this much criticised fork was boosted. It might not be a great freeride/downhill fork, but it matches up with 4/5 inch full suss bike amazingly for the price. Given the choice though, I would own the Psylo Race or SL instead...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jack
a Downhiller
from Idaho Date Reviewed: October 1, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Rock Shox Employee Order
Strengths:
Great Tire clearance. I guess that it would be a great fork if you were a cross country person.
Weaknesses:
It bottoms out to easily. If you bottom it out to hard you break the seals and Fork Oil leaks all over the place. I have disk brakes on my bike and The stupid fork got oil all over my breaks making be have to get new pads.
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi Z5 100
Bike Setup:
A Kona Stuff Downhill Hardtail!!!!!!
Bottom Line:
The Bottom line is that this Fork sucks a big one. It is a poop. And that is all I have to say about that. If you are a downhiller or a freerider and you want a great fork defiantly dont get this one. Go for a 2003 Marzocchi Junior T. That is What I have right now And it is the greatest. Just barely pulling it out of the box was an awesome fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
adam
a Weekend Warrior
from Littleton,CO,USA Date Reviewed: September 26, 2002
Favorite Trail:
cowboy up
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
came with used bike
Strengths:
nice amount of travel, uturn is freakin awesome
Weaknesses:
bottoms out easily(might just be the type of oil on it, ive been told)
Similar Products Used:
judy tt, junior t, super t, z1 mcr, judy c
Bike Setup:
2001 giant warp ds2, wtb 2.4 tires
Bottom Line:
great fork for the money. not expensive, lots of travel and uturn is a great idea.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben S
a Weekend Warrior
from Kelowna, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: September 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
steep ones
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$280.00
Purchased At:
Gericks Cycle
Strengths:
sweet amount of travel for money. the adjust feature is sweet.
Weaknesses:
a little soft. not bad, but may upgrade to stiffer springs.
Similar Products Used:
judy c
Bike Setup:
Specialized Hardrock Uno comp, odyssey twister pro pedals, psylo xc
Bottom Line:
I love it. I have taken it off a few small drops (3 feet), but am getting up the balls to go bigger. I have yet to bottom it out. may upgrade springs, but I'm just being picky.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
allen
a Downhiller
from idaho Date Reviewed: September 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
???
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Rock Shox employee order
Strengths:
good tire clearance
thats about it
Weaknesses:
crappy seals bottoms out to easy leaks oil everywhere after you blow the crappy seals
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi X-Fly 100
Bike Setup:
Trek Bruiser One (downhill hardtail)
Bottom Line:
THIS FORK FREAKIN' SUCKS!!!!
I was hauling but down a rock garden one night doing some shuttle runs and halfway down the section I bottomed it out so hard that I blew the seals and when I got to the bottom of the run there was fork oil all over the fork legs. Ever sinde then its leaked oil all over the place.
This piece of crap fork has leaked oil on to my disc brake and has ruined two sets of pads now.
The bottom line is that when it comes to aggressive riding over rough terrain at high speeds, Rock Shox freakin' sucks! Don't waste your money on this fork. If you want a fork that can handle an aggressive riding style I suggest you get a Marzocchi. Thats what I'm doing and I couldn't be happier to get rid of my Psylo.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam Toms
a Downhiller
from AUS Date Reviewed: September 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Fast ones
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$810.00
Strengths:
Everything about this shox is good! Lots of travel Easliy adjustable U Turn for going up hills looks good
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Judy SL, Mozo 3.2, Bomber EXR
Bike Setup:
Giant Warp DS1
Bottom Line:
Awsome shox if u do some downhilling. Very reliable!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ivan the Terrible
a Cross Country Rider
from Asheville, NC Date Reviewed: September 21, 2002
Favorite Trail:
WNC
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Adjustable Travel
Weaknesses:
This POS is going back for the third time on warranty. I mostly use the fork for some jumping and aggressive trail riding. The steerer and/or stanchion crown interface SUCKS A$$. This thing creaks all the time and keeps getting louder like its going to blow up. I will NEVER have faith in Rock Shox products again. The fork works well, but the duribility is terrible. Do some R&D you f**cking knuckleheads and make something that actually holds up to your supposed freeride standards.
Similar Products Used:
Most all other manufactured forks.
Bike Setup:
2002 Giant AC2
Bottom Line:
This fork blows. Don't waste your money on Rock Shox. If the fork came OEM as mine did, use it till it explodes and get a fork that is actually made for hard riding. I couldn't be more disgusted with a product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim Davis
a Weekend Warrior
from Australia Date Reviewed: September 17, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Any that is downhill
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$795.00
Strengths:
- Amount of travel. 125mm is very nice for drop off's - Adjustibility. 'U' Turn and rebound control easy to turn - No movement anywhere - Good for freeriding
Weaknesses:
Paint scratches easily but that's all. Nothing else!
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi Bombers MXR, EXR, RockShox Judy XC,
Bike Setup:
Giant AC3
Bottom Line:
If you do a lot of freeriding, then this is the fork to use. Reasonably cheap for what it is, good quality, great amount of travel.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a Weekend Warrior
from Good old Harefield London! Date Reviewed: September 8, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Wades Cycles
Strengths:
Stiff, Plush, good adjustable travel. Cheap.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
GT i-drive, XT, F519's, mini's, Fox vanilla.
Bottom Line:
A very good short and long travel cheap single crown beast!!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Jax., Fl. USA Date Reviewed: August 29, 2002
Favorite Trail:
RazorBack Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Easy to adjust, handsome appearance, stiffness, versatility, price.
Weaknesses:
weight.
Similar Products Used:
Maintou SX-R, Rockshox Quad 21r
Bike Setup:
Specialized Max Backbone FSR, Mountain Speed rear link with helix Pro, XT Cranks, XT shifter/brake and XT front derailleur, XTR v-brakes and XTR rear derailleur,Titec post, Panaracer Fire XCPRO, Selle Italia Flite Gel, Ritchie Logic clipless, Syncros headset.
Bottom Line:
Rockshox really delivered on a constructing a truly versatile shock. Makes my bike capable of high performance at a varity (the spice of life) of different locations and terrains. What more could you ask for? If you are single task minded, build your bike for that specific purpose. If you would enjoy seeing what else is out there, I would highly recommend this shock. Great job RockShox.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from Siloam Springs AR USA Date Reviewed: August 28, 2002
Dollar for dollar, this is way more fork than I could've bought just 2 years ago, and still one of the best available currently. The cheap plastic cap broke on my fork after 1 month of riding, but a quick call to RS got one shipped to me at no cost and I had it within a week. Way to go RockShox! I think the cap is plastic because the U Turn mechanism can be damaged by overtightening the knob, and if the knob breaks before the fork's internals, then that's good engineering, not just cheap manufacturing. (this is just my guess, though) I weigh 185 lbs, don't do big jumps, but have to climb up and down some very rough and stepped out sections of stone on local trails. The 80 mm setting allows for spot-on XC handling, while the longer settings take the rougher stuff and downhill sections with ease. Overall, the fork handles very well, and tracks well for the geometry you dial in, and has held together internally so far, so I'd have to give this fork top ratings for doing what it's supposed to do.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Grant
a Racer
from South Africa Johannesburg Date Reviewed: August 27, 2002
Favorite Trail:
The one that i havent ridden yet
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
This fork is staunch U turn works perfectly,see weakness colour scheme does look good
Weaknesses:
As mentioned, the u turn is good, change of travel is very cool 80-125, whilst this is nice, the change of the head angle is VERY noticable, the bike tends to steer like a cammel, slow and unresposive. this is not a problrm on a free ride bike but on an xc hartale it sucks , but 125mm is great 4 blasting down stairs and decents . 4.1 POUNDS !!!!!!!!!!!
Similar Products Used:
Manitou SXR, RS speedy,magnum
Bike Setup:
Giant ATX custom, XT XTR
Bottom Line:
This is a great fork although the geometary issues are a problem, still this is an excellant fork and works perfectly.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross Country Rider
from poros, cali Date Reviewed: August 24, 2002
Favorite Trail:
it's a secret!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$189.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
very useful 80-100mm adjustable travel, nice and plush, looks cool in silver.
Weaknesses:
a bit on the heavy side @ 4.11 lbs, cheap looking crown
Similar Products Used:
duke sl, x-vert air
Bike Setup:
Y2K fisher hardtail
Bottom Line:
In the diverse terrain i ride this is the ideal fork. At 150 Lbs this fork feels very plush, but for anyone over 160 i reccomend changing to firmer springs. The adjustable travel is soooo awesome! I don't think i can own another fork that does not have this feature. It looks really cool in silver, especially if you take the stickers off and just leave the plate decal. Also, it is an incredible value for what you get.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hadrian
a Cross Country Rider
from Newtown, CT Date Reviewed: August 23, 2002
-U Turn can brake easily -Can't handle high drops -No lock out
Similar Products Used:
Manitou Black, Psylo SL, Judy TT, Jett T2, Lefty
Bike Setup:
K2 Disco Monkey
Bottom Line:
This is a great fork for aggresive XC and trail riding. It can handle drops up to 4 or 5 feet. Anything of 5 feet can be done with this fork but is questionable. The U-Turn is a great feature but must be used carefully. The spring can be damaged easily if the knob is over turned. Rebound adjustment is pretty nice. Overall this fork is a great shock. For those of you who can't afford the SL and want a fork that'll do a superb job on the trails, this one is for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete Morgan
a Racer
from Johannesburg South Africa Date Reviewed: August 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
ones where there are wild animals
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$295.00
Purchased At:
Jenson (price includes shipping to africa)
Strengths:
U Turn travel adjust. automatic spring rate increase as the amount of travel descends.
This fork kicks ass, down here on the tip of africa, things are different. There arent marked trails, rockshox arent sold aftermarket here, i have the only zaskar team in the country. Stuff gets ridden through a lot worse. The fork will take this, it may be a bit too plush (stock spring) but there aint more springs here. If you want a tough do everything fork that is bombproof, buy this one. At the end of the world, there will be three things left once the dust has settled, fort knox, laceys fall out shelter, and this fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
nick slim
a Weekend Warrior
from cheltenham, england Date Reviewed: July 30, 2002
Favorite Trail:
cwmcarn, wales
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$230.00
Purchased At:
cheltenham
Strengths:
U-turn, U-turn , and U-turn.
Weaknesses:
I wanted SL's but the local shop only had white left so I went for black xc's. Therefore they are heavier, and they lack the lockout. Some parts of the fork are steel.
Similar Products Used:
SID's, manitou blacks, psylo sl's
Bike Setup:
Trek VRX, fox rear shock setup 5" of rear travel, hope discs, and a lovely salsa quick release seat post bolt.
Bottom Line:
NOTE PRICE PAID IN £'s Quite simply the best bit of kit I have bought/owned in my years of biking - these forks have transformed a bargain priced Trek VRX into my favourite bike. The 120mm travel and the rear travel of the vrx go so well together. If you can afford SL's do it, but if you can you are not mising out with the XC's. Mine a get a roasting every weekend, I love em.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Weekend Warrior
from Syracuse, NY (USA) Date Reviewed: July 28, 2002
Favorite Trail:
yes
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
Plush ride, for what it is decent weight, adjustability, and the Tullio set-up in the best, everything should be like this.
Weaknesses:
Way to soft for a freeride fork, I am 200# and the X-firm is still to soft. Left stanchion came loose in crown and was repaired by Rock Shox, but why is this happening. What is interesting is that they used all 2001 parts.
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi Z-1 dropoff
Bike Setup:
DS set-up for a 200# fat boy.
Bottom Line:
This fork is really not a freeride fork and nowhere near downhill. If you are and aggressive cross country rider, hit a jump or two and keep drop-offs under 2 feet, you will be ok. Anything more and you will be disappointed. The Tullio axle should be the standard for all forks! This is such an easy and convenient set-up for removing the front wheel and it's stronger!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ROCKthaHOUSE ...
a Downhiller
from Freiburg, Germany Date Reviewed: July 26, 2002
Favorite Trail:
DH, FR
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$249.00
Purchased At:
www.nubuk-sports.de
Strengths:
-for an one bridgefork, it has much travel (125mm) -looks nice (i've got it in grey) -tires to 2.7" -uses much travel
well, it's a nice fork with much travel. it works very good and uses many travel - at an 1m drop into flat, it uses all travel (125mm), nice for tour and for freeride. i ride it 5 month now and you have to ride it 1-2 month to get it soft. after this month it's perfect! !would buy it again, but nothings perfect!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Donat
a Cross Country Rider
from France, 'cote d'azur' Date Reviewed: July 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
hard XC, soft DH
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
with the Scott Octane
Strengths:
works well, soft, stiff (QR20).
Weaknesses:
crown/upper tubes assembly emits 'cracks' when braking . damping knob lost QR20 lever not locked (QR20 replaced under warranty)
Bike Setup:
Scott Octane 2002
Bottom Line:
RS after sales service in France takes between 4 weeks (to replace a QR20 !) to 6 weeks (to replace pivot/upper tubes assembly). The product is technically excellent but with poor quality and poor service. GOTO Marzo !
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
trev
a Weekend Warrior
from Japan Date Reviewed: July 24, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Adjustability, good compromise between XC and freeride fork
Weaknesses:
stock springs, major change in handling between settings
Specialized FSR XC, riser bars, XT and LX drivetrain, XT rim brakes, Fox Vanilla Air shock
Bottom Line:
I would highly recommend these for moderate all round use, but not for hardcore riding. I use this bike as an all round trailbike. Not as good as my XC hardtail on long climbs, get blown away by my mates' freeride bikes down the hills, but does pretty well in a wide range of trails. I bought the fork for the adjustability. Parts are very expensive here, so just got the plain Psylo XC. Stock springs are a bit soft. I might try heavier oil first to see if that helps, but probably go to heavier springs. It takes about 10 seconds to wind the the U-turn knob all the way in or out, so that doesn't bother me at all (you do have to take a break sometimes). Bike climbs pretty well on the 80mm setting (riser bars are a curse on the long climbs) and descends well over small obstacles and drops. Definitely wouldn't use this fork for serious freeriding or jumping, and not suitable for serious cross country stuff, but a good trail riding fork. One thing to watch is that the front end pushes a lot in the long travel setting. The FSR steers very well at 80mm, but takes armfulls of steering at 125mm. Well worth trying these forks at settings other than right up or right down.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Karsten Moeller
a Cross Country Rider
from Nuremberg Germany Date Reviewed: July 18, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Lots of travel for relatively litte money
Weaknesses:
U-Turn. I either need 80mm or 125mm. Having to turn around that plastic thing six times each time I go up a hill or start going down to change the travel is a a pain. Stock spring too soft (I weigh in at 92kg = 190lbs.)
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi Bomber
Bike Setup:
XT, Magura Louise FR, Red Bull AL-600 Frame
Bottom Line:
Good fork for the money. Haven't really noticed that it's not that stiff (read that in some reviews), though I'm not really a Hardcore Biker who rides at the limit all the time. U-Turn is a nice gag but really more of a nuisance than a useful feature (see above weaknesses). Would really love a lock-out but the Psylo SL is too expensive. Here in Germany you pay like €400-500 for the XC and €700-800 for the SL!!! (1 Euro is about 1 Dollar right now)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Henry
a Weekend Warrior
from Brooklyn NY Date Reviewed: July 9, 2002
Favorite Trail:
hunter mtn
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$270.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
U-turn travel adjustment, fairly stiff( i feel no flex at braking so i really don't know what those other guys talk about), looks good too.
Weaknesses:
the u-turn plastic piece of poop that you use to turn it, some how i see it breaking in the near future. Otherwise everything else is up to point
Similar Products Used:
fox float 100rcl (super sweet but too expensive and a bit overweight)
Bike Setup:
frame-mongoosepro zero-g (crap, but gets the job done)all parts shimano deore/xt except cranks(LX)and brakes(promax) Bontrager race modified tubeless wheelset with ac-jones tires
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is, this is an enduro fork, not downhill, so i dont think people should be doing 4-5foot jumps on only 125mm of travel..thats just plain stupid. U-turn works like a charm, just turn the nob and the thing grows or shrinks right before your eyes. When i took it on the trails, the fork swallowed everything that was in its path. Big tree roots, bolders and the ocasional 1footer( i was a bit scared to test it for more because it sucks to be in the middle of the forest with only your feet to carry you). This fork is real smooth, a pleasure to ride, i would love a to have a lockout but didnt want to throw an extra hundred bucks on it, if you want a good fork thats a bit more beefier than your average XC than I suggest the psylo. Besides that, just name another fork that can convert travel from 80-125(and anything in between) just about as fast as your hand can turn the nob.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Intense
a Weekend Warrior
from Lower Hutt, New Zealand Date Reviewed: July 2, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Urban assault
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
On Yer Bike, (price in NZ $)
Strengths:
Gotta love the U-turn, 5" plush travel, resonably stiff, look cool
Weaknesses:
I've had my crowns sent away under warrenty and replaced as they started creaking really badly. Also, after a big hit the U-turn actually unwinds half a turn but thats no biggie as its so easy to adjust. And they are way to sof outta the box for me (95kg) but harder springs sort that out.
Similar Products Used:
01' Psylo XC, MXC Bomber, Manitou X-vert R and DC
Bike Setup:
02' Avanti Hot Dog, XT/XTR, raceface cranks/bb, 521 rims with Xsiv disk hubs, Hayes hyrdolic front, Avid arch rival rear, Psylo XC, FSA Pig DH headset, Tenacious D bars, Azonic pedals, DMR saddle and Maxxis tyres/tubes
Bottom Line:
This fork works really well, feels real nice and looks the part. Rockshox did a great job on this fork. Anyone into Urban/trails or even XC riding check out this fork, it can take a lot of punishment, but I wouldn't race DH on it, but thats not what its desinged for is it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john miller
a Downhiller
from pacific grove, ca, united states Date Reviewed: July 2, 2002
Favorite Trail:
tunnel of jumps
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$220.00
Purchased At:
pricepiont
Strengths:
has good damping,u--turn & rebound ajustments, 30mm strantions, travle
Weaknesses:
bottoms out of any thing above 3 or 4 feet, u,turn cap is cheap, my disk brakes are eating into the forks mounts, and paint chips easy.
Similar Products Used:
black 100/120 elite, Z-1 wedge
Bike Setup:
2002 specialized enduro, psylo xc, azonic bar and stem, for float r (itch), WTB motorapers (2.4) mavic 227's, XT, Deore
Bottom Line:
Its a great trail and jumping fork, but it wouldnt be my first choice for drops.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
donn morrison
a Downhiller
from victoria, bc, canada Date Reviewed: June 28, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
mtn city cycles, courtenay, bc
Strengths:
cheap, plush, light
Weaknesses:
bottoms out on most things above 4 feet unless you land perfectly. my crown also became loose from the stanchions and started creaking quite loudly. i'm going to replace this fork with a boxxer because it doesn't hold up to any abuse.
Similar Products Used:
manitou xvert super
Bike Setup:
devinci kingpin 2002 stock
Bottom Line:
this fork came on my 2002 devinci. i'll have to say it is the weak part of the bike. as i said before the crown came loose and its unsafe to use now. i've heard about other people with this same problem. its a good cheap fork but if you're going to put it through any kind of abuse i'd put some money into something better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott Clements
a Downhiller
from Tasmania Date Reviewed: June 21, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Drops Track
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
On Bike (McBains)
Strengths:
Looks cool, strong, really plush but doesnt bottom out, even off 7 foot drops!!! Utilises the full 125mm, not like the claims of some fork manufactuers. U turn works well, and unless you have a big spill, you wont snap the adjuster, and If you do, you still dont need it to adjust the travel setting. Takes big hits as good as any other fork out there in the 5 inch catagory! Chunky stantions... ETC ETC!!!
Weaknesses:
Compression and rebound (only rebound adjuster on XC model) is not as good as Marzocchi, but the negative travel ensures the wheel stays in contact with the dirt! Damping is still good though!
These forks are awesome for extreme freeriding, and maybe even XC racing with the new u-turn. I havn't bottomed them out, and the biggest drop so far has been seven foot! I am working my way up though... I am confident the Psylos will hold up well!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Garth
a Cross Country Rider
from Cincinnati, OH USA Date Reviewed: June 19, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$259.00
Purchased At:
Universal Cycles
Strengths:
U-Turn, long travel, stiff, plush
The U-turn makes it really easy to change the bike geometry to fit the riding conditions.
Weaknesses:
For a clydesdale, this fork feels a bit freaky all the way out while descending a rough trail. I've heard of the bushing issues, and suspect that this is more an issue of my weight. For me, this has also been a symptom of the foam ring drying out and needing more oil.
Wiper is hard to get back in
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox Judy XC, Manitou Sport
Bike Setup:
Azonic Evolution Fr, XT/XTR, Mavic Rims, Azonic Bar, Kore Stem/Pedals/Skewers, avid brakes
Bottom Line:
Pretty good fork for the $.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron
a Cross Country Rider
from Vancouver, Canada Date Reviewed: June 17, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Burnaby Mountain
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$220.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
I like the looks of this fork. The U-turn mechanism is very convenient. Lots of travel for not too much money.
Weaknesses:
The plastic U-turn cap cracked on the very first ride I went on (Before I even sent the warranty card in). The ride is kind of plush for me (I weigh over 200lbs) so I'll have to upgrade to stiffer springs or mess around with oil weights.
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi Z1 Dropoffs, Marzocchi EXR's
Bike Setup:
Kona hardtail with LX, XT, Avid SD7 V-Brakes, FSA, etc...
Bottom Line:
This fork was inexpensive and it looks great and rides nice (although a little plush). My only real problem with it is the cheapo platic U-turn cap!!! Why use plastic which cracks when you can use a long lasting metal of some type??? C'mon Rock Shox. No where on a fork does plastic belong. Make a metal cap that people can upgrade to!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alec
a Downhiller
from Perth WA Australia Date Reviewed: June 14, 2002
Favorite Trail:
all good DH
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Jenson usa
Strengths:
Plush, long travel for a single crown fork. luv the u-turn i didnt think it was gonna do much but it works like a gem!
Weaknesses:
PAINT CHIPS OFF!!! the shox are a bit too soft even for me coz i only weigh bout 50Kg. and they still bottem out on 5ft. drops
Similar Products Used:
bombers
Bike Setup:
Giant DS 3, New odessy peddals, and rockshox psylo
Bottom Line:
Scince i race down-hill the shox get bashed around a bit, the bottom line is that the shocks a wicked 4 the price work well and look kool too!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel
a Downhiller
from Kernersville, NC, USA Date Reviewed: May 26, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Northwood
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$320.00
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
None since its not very strong for what its made for.
Weaknesses:
Umm....its a piece, I broke the steerer tube off on a 5 foot drop, blew the seals, bushings and the cartridge out twice. Second time 3 days after getting it back. Once the seals go, it will leak oil like a fountain all over your garage floor and car if you have a roof rack, then you send it to rockshox and wait a month and a half for it to come back, if you get lucky its fixed. I wouldnt say i abuse it really, since after all it is a freeride fork and all its seen is a 5-6 foot drop at the biggest since its on my xc bike im selling. By the way the springs are way too soft
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi dj 1, 2, z.1, z.3,shiver sc, manitou supernova, millenium, mars, rockshox, psylo sl, race. white bros. ect.
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel, just got my new frame, broke the other one- with crap fork. and my real bike is a 2002 specialized big hit comp with marzocchi monster triple, intense tyres, mrp, ect.
Bottom Line:
This is the perfect fork for you if you are a road rider or a poser who has a freeride bike and doesnt do anything. If you are planning on going bigger than a foot, or jumping more than 3, i would definately go with some sort of marzocchi of any sort. The fork is really weak as is the customer service. If you want to be riding and not waiting for your fork to come back, dont get a psylo. Oh, im not the only one i know of to have this happen, i know of at least 2 others who had the same problems.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jordan Erdmann
a Weekend Warrior
from Manitowoc, WI USA Date Reviewed: May 16, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Hells Enterence
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$219.00
Purchased At:
Supergo.com
Strengths:
100% Adjustable quick U turn tough CroMo Steerer Double Crown option Plush long travel range for big range biking AND SEXY!
Weaknesses:
flexy bottom tube cheap decals somewhat of a bob
Similar Products Used:
Jr T Shiver Marzocchi X-Fly
Bike Setup:
7005 Aluminum DBR frame, XT everything, Sun Rhyno wheels
Bottom Line:
great fork, nice ride, also attractive (nothing better than pickin up chics with a 125mm Psylo) 5 Flamin chillas!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Holden Cox
a Weekend Warrior
from Pensecola, FL, USA Date Reviewed: May 9, 2002
Favorite Trail:
the sand dunes up in them buggys
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
that ole bike shop down by walmart
Strengths:
them psylo forks they is tough. take out just bout anything i put on em including cow poop from my son's farm up in wisconsin. i recon i ride up there through the piles of poop for them ole dirt jumpin
Weaknesses:
that ole cap on the top i recon is plastic. i dont know why them ladies invented the material in the first place that plastic is for tupperware. aint no fork needen plastic nowadays.
Similar Products Used:
i'm an old man. i recon 561 and i tried stealin this from that old store for my grandson be said yo grands, i dont need your cheap psylo. i got a boxxer and he reconed it was much betta so i said i'll get back in to the sport. ain't to trouble ridin a bicycle for me.
Bike Setup:
i here gota ole huffy i found at the junk yard. took it to the shop where i stoled my fork here and they fixed her up for a henray jack 35 dollas.
Bottom Line:
you youngsters be careful down there in those caves and rivas. this sport i dont reccomend it to nobody. its downright dangerous
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
PSW
a Weekend Warrior
from Fairfield,CT USA Date Reviewed: May 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere !
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
www.airbomb.com
Strengths:
U-turn, Reliability, Cost/Value , minimal flex.
Weaknesses:
WAY SOFT out of the box. I am 210 lbs and almost sent this back after I installed it and bottomed out trying to bunny hop. Paint chips easy.
Similar Products Used:
2000 SID XC, 3 Judy XC 1997,1999,2001
Bike Setup:
CUSTOM 2001 K2 Disco Monkey Freeride(EVO2)Noleen NR2 rear, Xt rear and front, SRAM attack,Hayes 6 inch Disc, XT-RynoLites-KENDA 2.35's, Azonic Shorty, Riser Bars, 2002 Psylo XC. ALL Black
Bottom Line:
This is not a light Bike and I am 210 and this fork is holding up great. I did not have to change the springs like I have heard so many people tried. I put in 15 wieght oil and that really made a huge improvement. If you don't give a crap about saving a little weight go PSYLO ! You willl love it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben Bilsland
a Weekend Warrior
from Taunton, Somerset, UK Date Reviewed: May 5, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Quantocks
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Ralph Colman Cycles
Strengths:
Adjustable Low Maintanence Simple and Cheap
Weaknesses:
It isn't an SL?
Similar Products Used:
Judy Race, SLs, Bomber Z1s...
Bike Setup:
GT XCR 3000 i-drive
Bottom Line:
You can get these for cheap now and they are great. The average trail rider cannot afford to spend over 200 quid. You get 5" of travel, hich matches most full sussers. The subsequent slack head angle is great for downhills, yet it goes away on clibs because you can wind it down. Flexible? C'mon guys, this is a brilliant fork and your just trying to show off. Just try riding an older Rockshox Judy Race and feel the difference.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
B w
a Racer
from USA Date Reviewed: May 2, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
Budget Bike
Strengths:
-kind of plush -Very nice QR20 design
Weaknesses:
Everything: -Springs too soft -Flexy as hell -Felxy as hell -Flexy as hell -bottoms out w/flick of wrist -Using an 8" rotor with this fork almost breaks the piece of shi-te in half under hard breaking
Similar Products Used:
Sid XC '99, Judy XC, Sid XC 2001, Super T,Monster T
Bike Setup:
Giant AC
Bottom Line:
This fork is disgustingly flexy, do not buy it unless you are very timid. It literally bends front to back when I brake. It Sucks....Really really bad. If you car about steering precision dont buy this fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luke Blaber
a Downhiller
from Exmouth Date Reviewed: May 1, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Not the crappy bombhole
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$425.00
Purchased At:
singletrack
Strengths:
Amazingly plush and not too soft. Very strong and thrashable! Good adjustment: travel/damping
Weaknesses:
Slightly flexy at five inches but nothing major, and too soft at 80mm
Similar Products Used:
z1
Bike Setup:
Burner frame, tioga, dmr, shimano etc
Bottom Line:
Buy these forks they are the dogs bollocks if your not too heavy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Phat Bstrd2
a Weekend Warrior
from Jersey Date Reviewed: April 30, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Plattekill Mountain
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Installed ...at local bike shop
Strengths:
-plush -adjustable travel -range (80-125mm)
Weaknesses:
none
Bike Setup:
2001 MARIN East Peak, Foxs Float rear,Psylo XC front shocks,shimano xt all around
Bottom Line:
This shock rocks....Set the adjustable travel and it smooths every trail....from the hills, rocks and roots to the swamps of Jersey. The real test came at Plattekill NY.... Now before the DH'ers start....Yes this is a XC very lite Frame with XC shocks....but this is my point....This setup absorbed every trail I rode.....Did I drop 5' NO....for that there is no substitute for a DH rig....however the psylo did its job ... and did it well....The addition of this shock to my bike has enabled me to ride well on all terrain
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
"bike" Layne
a Weekend Warrior
from Las Vegas,Nv. USA Date Reviewed: April 24, 2002
Favorite Trail:
UNLV
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$220.00
Purchased At:
price point
Strengths:
Price was right, U-turn kicks major ****! I went for the XC instead of the SL ($100 more for compression damping knob)
Weaknesses:
Cheesy name plate, spring a little light for me (165 pnds.)
Similar Products Used:
various rock shox,Girvin vector(ok not very similar)
Bike Setup:
2000 Fisher Joshua, Bontrager assymetrical wheels,xteverything,IRC tires(the best) Odi lockjaws,SDG seat ROCK SHOX Psylo XC
Bottom Line:
I was a little worried about this purchase when I read the reviews here ,especially getting them from Price point. But I think that is was the best purchase I ever made. I could use a stiffer spring ,but I have yet to bottom them out ,even on 4FT. to flat concrete. wheelie dropping a loading dock felt the same as dropping a curb. Maybe I just got lucky.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Neo
a Racer
from Germany - ... Date Reviewed: April 24, 2002
Favorite Trail:
my own built NORTHSHORE
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$249.00
Strengths:
for a one brigde fork much travel (125mm)
Weaknesses:
bad 'ansprechverhalten'
Similar Products Used:
mhm, super monster hehe - joke
Bike Setup:
conway 6095 (110mm travel) - psylo xc (125mm travel) - shimano xtr (<- everything) - i hate this frame it has too little travel =(
Bottom Line:
i wouldn't buy this fork again - it has a bad 'ansprechverhalten'!!!!!! but it's chaep - wouldn'T use it for downhill only for tour und (soft-)freeride... cya@the trail
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh Glover
a Weekend Warrior
from Sturbridge, MA, U.S. Date Reviewed: April 23, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Mt. Snow
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$220.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
-Stiff -Very plush -Easy "no tool" travel adjustment (very convenient)
The bottom line is that i bought this fork because i had ridden bikes with long travel, and also my friends bike with a '99 psylo. I fell in love with it, and when i build up my new bike i bought the 2002 Psylo from Price Point. Ive been riding the fork for about 6 months now. This fork is sweet, it lets me push myslef to new speeds because of the huge travel. I also like the fact that i can adjust the travel to 80 mm when i come up to an uphill. I ride pretty hard and i haven't had any problems, so the people that say that you need to work on the Psylo XC every 2 weeks must just ride like a moron. I recomend this fork, i give it 5 chilis!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dennis
a Downhiller
from Beverly, ma Date Reviewed: April 19, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Red Dot
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Price Point. com
Strengths:
I would have to say that the Pslyo is great for croos country and downhill. You can adjust the travel in the turn of a switch for any surfaces you are riding
Weaknesses:
I havent found any weaknesses yet but i would have to say it has alittle bob to it!
Similar Products Used:
None at the time i dont no what this question is asking
Bike Setup:
None at the time i dont no what this question is asking
Bottom Line:
The Psylo xc is a great fork for all types of riding!!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kyle
a
from ny Date Reviewed: April 18, 2002
Favorite Trail:
ledges trail 1-3
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$320.00
Purchased At:
local dealer
Strengths:
plush, long, great travle,and great on the drops, but when clinked to three inches doesn't bob and is pretty good going up the hills.
Weaknesses:
none so far.
Similar Products Used:
jr. t
Bike Setup:
khs fxt pro with riser bars, 50mm stem , rhino lite rims and truvative stylo cranks.
Bottom Line:
kick ass fork for the money for a all round freerider living around hills.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fredacious Sproat
a Downhiller
from Duluth MN USA Date Reviewed: April 15, 2002
Favorite Trail:
lutsen
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint.com
Strengths:
great dampening, reboundad justment, love the u turn! good handling
Weaknesses:
weight
Similar Products Used:
i went from a rock shox jett to the psylo so no comaprrison
Bike Setup:
i have it on my specialized hard rock and time atac carbons
Bottom Line:
its so awesome the weight doesn't matter, go out and buy one!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Guy
a Cross Country Rider
from Darwin, Australia Date Reviewed: April 14, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Lost City, Litchfield Nat.Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$320.00
Purchased At:
Rosettos, Darwin
Strengths:
Strong, no flex, adjustable travel, good for nasty downhill sections on long XC rides.
Weaknesses:
When first fitted, the fork had noticeable bushing play. After one month of wondering "Is it just me or are these bushings dodgy?", I sent it back for repair under warranty. Once returned (3 weeks later), the bushings were perfectly smooth and tight and I was loving the improvement to my ride. One month later however I was noticing problems with the soft paint finish which scratched easily and even peeled off in a big flap from one scatch. The fork was also sufferring a severe outbreak of surface corrosion all over the magnesium lower legs. According to supplier this was due to the paint finish not being properly cured. Currently waiting for return of fork from second warranty (probably another 3 weeks). Travel can be reduced while riding, but to increase travel (prior to a steep downhill) you need to take weight off the fork. So you either have to stop to extend it, or perform a series of tricky upward pulls on the right handlebar while turning the adjuster with your left hand (repeat 13 times to get full travel!). I am 80kg and the stock spring is just a bit too soft for me. If you are over 80kg, you will probably need to upgrade to a stiffer one (or get a full-face helmet). You will also need lizard skins on the upper tubes, I put two nasty scratches in the teflon coat on my first ride (ok I was going a bit crazy over the long travel thing).
Similar Products Used:
RS Judy 2001
Bike Setup:
Giant XTC NRS3 2001, upgraded seat and fork (to this Psylo), otherwise stock.
Bottom Line:
I wanted a better fork for occasional steep downhills and rock ledge drop-offs that I encounter on my regular cross-country rides. Fixed travel downhill forks are no good for 80% of my riding, which is long-distance XC. I use the short travel setting (80mm) for much of my riding, but on rocky/hilly areas I pump it up to halfway(105mm). I only use the maximum travel (125mm) on hellish downhills. The Psylo allows me to turn my XC bike into a jumping/downhilling machine whenever I desire. This has allowed me to diversify my riding skills and improved my technical riding enormously, without any compromise to my XC riding. Overall I love the strength and adjustability and think RS have designed a great fork, but they need to follow it up with better quality control at their factories. The fact that the original bushings were not installed correctly, and that the paint finish was not properly cured are indicative of lousy quality assurance and make me wonder if I should risk buying RS in the future.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Axis
a Cross Country Rider
from Lakewood, Ohio USA Date Reviewed: April 14, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Vulture's Knob
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$219.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
U-Turn! 30mm stanchions and 125mm travel (big deal for me upgraded from flexy 2000 Judy XC)! External rebound adjustment that actually works! Plush!
Weaknesses:
I need the stiffer spring assembly but I weigh almost 200 pounds!
Similar Products Used:
2000 Judy xc and 2001 Judy SL.
Bike Setup:
black 2000 i-Drive frame with Fax Vanilla RC, XT drivetrain, brakes and shifters, Truvative isis Stylo Team cranks, Snafu platform pedals, Conti Vertical Pro tires, Weyless DH stem, Titec Hell Bent riser bars and the 2002 Psylos!
Bottom Line:
I run mine at 125mm 95% of the time but it is nice to be able to adjust for climbs. I am way more adept at freeride and DH so I need all the help I can get for the climbs. These forks are very stiff even with my big a$$. I can even get away with 4' to 5' urban assult drops! Of course I bottom out these forks (and frame) on every ride because they came with a 140 - 170 pound rider in mind but they still take everything I throw at them. Another thing I have really abused my i-Drive frame for a season and a half with no problems. People who say the standard i-Drive seatpost mast cracks from heavy use are wrong. If you use common sense and proper technique it is a very strong frame even for a 200 pound rider. Psylos are perfect for my bike! I may not even upgrade to a heavier spring...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jody
a Weekend Warrior
from BC Date Reviewed: March 12, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Victoria's Secret
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Plush, adjustable and simple
Weaknesses:
Creaky steer tube /crown
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi
Bike Setup:
Giant AC
Bottom Line:
I've had a few problems with creaking steer tube / crown assemblies. Originally I had a 2001 XC that needed bushings and steer tube / crown assembly. I sent it to Max at Rock Shox Warranty Canada - Cycles Lambert. He sent me out a 2002 XC - no questions. The next time I had the problem, Max upgraded the 2002 XC to a 2002 SL for free - and it only took 6 days for me to get it because they sent it by Air. Yes, the Psylo has had a few issues - but Rock Shox has definately given me excellent warranty service!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hunter
a Weekend Warrior
from LIlburn, GA USA Date Reviewed: March 9, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Yellow River
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$235.00
Purchased At:
supergo.com
Strengths:
smooth fork, easy adjustment, makes trails a lot better
Weaknesses:
none, or i dont like spending money if that counts
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox Jett
Bike Setup:
Diamondback Topanga 2001, sock version
Bottom Line:
This fork is worth it, looking to upgrade from the stock and dont want to fork over the funds, this is it. forget the professional reviewers. i am not a racer or a pro. this fork is awesome.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sammy -
a Weekend Warrior
from Kerava, Finland Date Reviewed: February 14, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Matakivenmaki
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Easily adjustable... I love the U-turn... international standard disc brake mounting.
Weaknesses:
maybe weight, but not really a problem for me...
Similar Products Used:
-
Bike Setup:
Merida Big Air Pro, XT, Lx-cranks, xt- rapidfire shifters, RS SID rear shock, Formula B4 hydr. Disc brakes...
Bottom Line:
Check out my page... http://lume.hamk.fi/cahva ..and write some feedback in my guestbook! Good fork for enduro and maybe for HC XC-rinding... also works in jumping! Not the lightest fork but I don't mind... U-turn works supprisingly well! ...if you want light fork buy manitou mars.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Carl Smith
a Weekend Warrior
from London, England Date Reviewed: February 10, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Aston Hill,Wendover
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
Oscroft Brothers
Strengths:
Looks fab, a good amount of travle for a single crown,easy travle adjustment,availbale with 20mm axle
Weaknesses:
PANT!!!! after the first 2weeks riding half the pant fell off! after they were replaced (warranty) the second pair the bushings became slack and formed a large amount of play-which is'nt re-asuring! PLASTIC travle adjuster!plastic?its only a matter of time befor i snap it!
Similar Products Used:
marzochhi shiver sc--the mutts nutts in front sus.
kick-ass fork,BUT has got too many bad points to it.sorry rock shox!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
levsie
a Racer
from concord, nh Date Reviewed: February 2, 2002
Favorite Trail:
trail 7 at Killington ski area
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$270.00
Purchased At:
s&w sports
Strengths:
sweet feel, better then last years xc. its black
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
'zoke rac coil and air(pos)
Bike Setup:
'01 giant xtc se2 full xtr, fire xc wheels and spinergy cyclone disc wheels with hayes hmx-1 brakes
Bottom Line:
most bang for the buck. the u-turn kicks a$$ and the performance cant be beat if you use 10wt oil and carbon springs. yes carbon springs. they come stock with a plastic u-turn cap, but you can order a ti cap from cambria bike. if you are into distance and 24 hour racing, buy this fork. 5 flaming rodies
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mr. B
a Weekend Warrior
from MD, USA Date Reviewed: January 24, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$190.00
Purchased At:
supergo.com
Strengths:
This fork needs to be worn in a bit, but once it is it has many good qualities. Its very plush and doesnt need much adjustments or repairs once you got it on to what you like(travel, sag,etc.)it is also very cheap!!
Weaknesses:
ANY fork that weighs more than 4 pounds is a rip off unless it is a double crown. this fatty weighs 4.4 pounds. steer tube is welded to the fork,you cant replace it, takes a while for the fork to get broken in
Similar Products Used:
Manitou X-vert, Marzocchi freeride, marzocchi z-3
Bike Setup:
all XT components, kONA frame, Sun Lyte wheel set
Bottom Line:
If weight is not a problem for you, the psylo xc is a great for to get, especially if your running aon a budget
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin Fraser
a Downhiller
from Glasgow Date Reviewed: January 4, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Queens View
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$190.00
Purchased At:
woolyhatshop
Strengths:
The fork is very stiff and feels extremely plush out of the box. The U-Turn facility is really good as I like jumping and a good bit of medium DH so it gives me choice of the travel I need for both styles.
Weaknesses:
The Plastic U-Turn cap is going to break tomorrow, because DH, jumping and any riding what so ever will break the plastic cap in half. After about 2 weeks of riding the bushings became loose causing the fork to play in the lower legs, and this is especially noticable when braking on smooth surfaces. This also doesnt put confidence in myself when i jump or ride even the slightest bit of singletrack. Well all I have to say is BYE BYE Rockshox, I'm going to MAROCCHI for a nice plush, stiff, long lasting bushing forks like the new Z1's !!!!!!!!!!!!!
Similar Products Used:
last years XC, 98 Z1's, Z3 coil 100
Bike Setup:
Orange patriot, XTR setup, NEW Z1's, hope pot 4's, 321 disc rims, goldtech hubs
Bottom Line:
Dont buy these forks unless you want to spent money trying to fix them every 2 weeks. Get your thinking cap on and buy Marzacchi Z1's !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Bare
a Cross Country Rider
from Sheridan, Wyoming, USA Date Reviewed: January 3, 2002
Not actually a weakness, but the fork is a little too plush. I may need to install heavier springs or play around with oil weights, however, I only weigh 160 lbs and this fork is incredibly plush. Would be nice to increase the travel while on the run. I don't know how long the plastic U-Turn cap will last.
01 Giant XTC NRS 3 Stock Except for Avid Mechanical Discs & a Specialized Body Geometry Saddle. Also Have an 01 Kona Lavadome.
Bottom Line:
This is a great fork for the money. You get 3-5 inches of adjustable travel( new u-turn technology) and external rebound adjustment for under $300.00. This fork is great for enduro style xc riding. It feels very plush and people over 150 lbs might consider heavier springs. I've also been told that 10 weight oil greatly enhances performence especially rebound control. I write another review after I have som riding time with this fork. As of now I would definatly recomment this fork for people who ride aggressive terrain but are on a budget.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Big Timmy
a Weekend Warrior
from mahWah NJ Date Reviewed: December 27, 2001
Favorite Trail:
wherever
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$239.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
really latterally stiff, and there's no fore-aft flex. The uturn is cool.
I love the fork. I was a cross country guy, riding light forx, like the sxr, but as I got more aggressive, I realized that my light stuff was flexing and putting me in danger. I rode a z1 and was converted - but that fork is expensive. Even the wedge model is steep - and it has zero adjustability. i couldnt part with $500 for the z1 cr. I then saw the Psylos were improved for '02. I love mine. I could have spent a little more for lockout, but my riding is not about that anymore. I'm heavy and hard on the for and it takes it. I love infinite adjustment on the travel - why settle for 4 or 5? I really like something like 4.33. It took me a while to find the travel i liked, but it feels great now. Now if only some company (SRP?) would machine some aluuminum uturn caps, this fork would dominat the >$300 market.
P.S. if you tinker, 10wt oil (instead of the stock 5wt) makes the fork so sweet and gives you much more rebound control than any fork out there.
good luck.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Downhiller
from Ontario Date Reviewed: December 24, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Warenty
Strengths:
None it snaped in a month and a half.
Weaknesses:
Everything
Similar Products Used:
DJ1, z1mcr, z1doff, supernova, ect...
Bike Setup:
Giant AC with DJ1 now
Bottom Line:
If you leave the ground this is not your fork. I broke it and warentied it and unloaded it on the internet. Trust me this thing is a big pos.
Get a DJ1 they are much stronger / siffer / dont bottom out.
Also RS backstabs their customers. They have hands down the worst customer service period. I wont by RS just beacuse they screwed me around.
IT TOOK 4 MONTHS TO WARNENTY THIS FORK.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steven James
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney, NSW, Australia Date Reviewed: December 16, 2001
So far (and I only fitted the forks a day ago) I'm very pleased with the plush & stiff performance. A mighty upgrade over the previous Judys. Time will tell if the bushing play worsens but if the current virtually stictionless performance is the payoff it's hard to argue against it. Will probably experiment with oil weights at the first service to try & provide a wider rebound adjustment range. Gotta love the U-Turn function. XTR V-brake performance greatly enhanced with the improved lower leg stiffness & overall suspension control.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Jersey Channel Islands Date Reviewed: November 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Cliff Paths
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$265.00
Purchased At:
Woolly Hat Shop
Strengths:
Good amount of travel for price, cheap, value for money
Weaknesses:
None as yet.. you have to turn the u-turn knob a hel of a lot to adjust the travel
Similar Products Used:
RS Jett 2001
Bike Setup:
Highly Modified Kona Nu Nu
Bottom Line:
Good free ride/ XC fork for non serious riders. Good value for money for those on a budget, all round not a bad fork at all.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jon street
a Downhiller
from bournemouth england Date Reviewed: November 11, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$170.00
Purchased At:
wooly hat shop
Strengths:
easily adjustable travel and rebound damping very plush and smooth ride
Weaknesses:
steerer tube/crown join is very poor if you use disks bushings have gone in my left leg seals have blown in both legs
Similar Products Used:
last years xc's, z1 cr, judy xlc, z3, z4, z5,
Bike Setup:
coyote dual,psylo xc2002, hope enduro 4's, lx xt drivetrain, planet x bars saddle, d521's on xt hubs, dmr chain device.
Bottom Line:
come on rockshox get your act together i was a loyal customer but poor reliability of your forks isnt the way to go. they ride nice but fall apart. i had a set of last years xcs, the bushings and seals went in the first two weeks and after 3 months the steerer tube had come loose, anyway rockshox sent me a new set of 2002 forks and i thought they would last after the so called improvements they had made. the fork arrived with bushing play in the left leg. i had the fork oil weight changed and the fork was devoid of oil in the left hand leg causing more play in bushings. i had the oil sorted but i left the bushings as they were. now the steerer is forever creaking and everytime i jump i fear for my life. rockshox you promise all and give nothing. im off to buy some marzocchis.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bart
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney NSW Australia Date Reviewed: November 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
oxford falls
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Hendry Cycles Victoria
Strengths:
Look's Awesome. Very easy to adjust the travel and rebound. Looks very well constructed and feels like it's made to last. Hard to tell but certainly doesn't feel like there's any flex.
Weaknesses:
None so far... perhaps a little bouncey.
Similar Products Used:
RS Judy XC
Bike Setup:
Giant ATX Team frame, Shimano XT Hydraulic brakes, XT grear, ryno lite rims, profile carbon bars
Bottom Line:
Have heard people complain about these forks but don't understand why. They are solid, ultra plush and do everything that's asked of them. Adjustability is easy and to top it all off, they look sick. For the price that these forks go for paid you cant expect SID race performance. These forks are very good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dodo
a Cross Country Rider
from San Francisco Date Reviewed: October 29, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
This is certanly an improvement over other RS I have tried or owned in the past.
Weaknesses:
The fork flexes, and it is really hard to adjust rebound and compression, not to mention travel. The quality of the travel is ok, although rebound (on the fork I used) was off and there was no way to adjust it appropriatly. The fittings look cheasy and I am ready to bet that durability will be an issue.
Similar Products Used:
RS Judy, SID. Marzocchi Z-1, MCR.
Bike Setup:
Demo, used twice in different occasions. Total one hour ride with stops for adjustment and set up.
Bottom Line:
I still do not understand why this fork is getting so much press attention (mostly from MBA). It is not a great fork, there are better products on the market at the same weight and price, and it does not look like (or feel) it is built to last (RS has historically shaved weight by compromising durability, e.g. used plastic fitting, instead of metal, thin extrusions etc..). I cannot reccomand this fork
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh
a Downhiller
from Amherst, MA Date Reviewed: October 27, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
QBP
Strengths:
PLUSH, awesome U-turn feature, looks stiff (but who can tell), not even very heavy, excellent value.
Weaknesses:
Bouncy? personally I like that. Maybe lack of pre-load?
Similar Products Used:
Manitou X-vert
Bike Setup:
2000 Marin Quake 9.0
Bottom Line:
Actual travel measures out at 4.7 inches and that's good enough for me. I love the U-turn feature, I only wish you didn't have to turn it so damn much. Oh well, it just takes a second. I never thought I'd owna fork this plush. I weigh 175 and the stock pring and oil make the fork super plush but others might want it set up stiffer. I, however, like to use all of the travell all the time, well most of it anyways. S, yeah, get one. Time will tell on durability though the bushings are 3 times longer this year so I doubt they'll be any more problems with those.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a
from Phoenix, AZ Date Reviewed: October 17, 2001
Favorite Trail:
mormon to national
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$269.00
Purchased At:
PricePoint
Strengths:
U-turn, plush (so far), solid, cheap
Weaknesses:
stock oil makes damping almost nil
Similar Products Used:
2001 psylo xc
Bike Setup:
DB XTS3
Bottom Line:
A well priced, easy to tune shock. Plush, strong, and the Uturn feature is great. If you're looking to make the rebound damping come alive, dump the stock 5wt oil and add 10wt oil. you'll still be able to almost turn off the damping, and when you engage it, it'll really slow the fork down.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Moe
a Downhiller
from Seattle Date Reviewed: October 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
BIG FINN HILL
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$269.00
Purchased At:
Universal Cycles
Strengths:
Rulage, u turn is the best. Strong and kinda light.
Weaknesses:
The thing bounces like a mofo. Any ideas how to stop it? rebound is amazing almost anoying, and very,very plush
This thing bounces up and down. i like the u turn so much i thought it was koo. The rebound is over the top but the travel makes up for a little bit. Cheap as hell and good quality.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lil' Ricky
a
from compton, CA Date Reviewed: October 15, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
It's dope.
Weaknesses:
Silver is wack.
Similar Products Used:
My shiny silver gat.
Bottom Line:
Much Props to teh Psylo. The bous at RS are my homies. It's digity digity dope, ya know what I'm sayin'? Much bounce, much rebound damping. Uturn, needs rmote u-turner o the bars. price is right, i only had to knock over 1 licquor store.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
What's New
»
BEST OF MTBR - Check out the highest rated bikes, parts, & gear!
»
LED BIKE LIGHT SHOOTOUT 3 - We test all the newest products and latest light and battery technology in this comprehensive guide»
$
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
