|
|
|
| |
Submitted by
m c
a Weekend Warrior
from hungary
Date Reviewed: December 31, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Good shock absorbtion. | | Weaknesses: | Propedal switch flips back to neutral from "hard" or "soft" position during riding.
Leaks air.
After less than 1,500 km it blew off. | | Bottom Line: | It just bottomed out and stayed this way during a regular slow pace no-impact ride. It should be more durable for the price. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
P
a Cross Country Rider
from ATL
Date Reviewed: December 14, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Shutes - Fruita | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | on bike | | Strengths: | over 1400 all trail miles on this and no failure/no problems. | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Brain - Float R | | Bike Setup: | 05 Titus Racer X 100, RP3, F100RLT, King, XT, Thomson, SDSL | | Bottom Line: | This shock has never let me down. All the adjustments work well. The three settings for Propedal make a huge difference in the feel of the bike. I'm 210 lbs and hard on parts but Fox products have allways held their own, in my opinion. Doesnt take a Rocket surgeon to set it up. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill Lindberg
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix, Arizona
Date Reviewed: August 21, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | National | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Came on bike | | Strengths: | Haven't found any yet. | | Weaknesses: | Rebound adjustment does not work. Repeated trips to Fox for warranty work without success. | | Similar Products Used: | Float RL, DHX 5.0 Air, Vanilla Coil | | Bike Setup: | Santacruz Blur XC, Manitou R7 super fork, King headset, American Classic wheels, Easton seatpost, stem, and bars, XT Hollowtech II, XT drivetrain | | Bottom Line: | This shock hasn't worked properly from day one and Fox has not been able to fix it. Purchased the bike at the end of May and the shock is having to go back for the third time.
1st trip - No compression, blowing through travel and bottoming while rolling off of a 4 inch curb. Rebound adjustment doesn't work ,no difference between full fast and full slow. Fox got almost all of my information incorrect and took 3 weeks to return shock. Name, phone number and complaint all incorrect. Listed no compression as "losing air". Compression was repaired, but not the rebound. Bucks wildly. Dangerous to ride.
2nd trip - Rebound adjustment complaint listed by Fox as "no compression". Received a phone message from Fox that the rebound was working properly so they "assumed that I wanted the compression increased, were making the change, and it would probably affect the way that the bike was made to handle in an adverse way." I called Fox and they said that this information was wrong and to install the shock and try it.
Well...No change in the rebound adjustment. No matter where it is set it rebounds violently, kicking the rear end up over anything but the smallest bump.
So now I am trying to find a shock to put on the bike so that it can be ridden while the shock goes back for the third time. I am also having a rebound problem on another bike with a 3 week old, 2007, 36RC2. Too bad you have to purchase a back up when you buy a Fox component and would actually like to ride your bike. It makes the cost of using Fox components the worst value out there.
| Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin McMahon
a Racer
from Calgary, Canada
Date Reviewed: June 10, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Dry ones | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | The Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Works great! I wonder whether it gets enough shock oil lube on top though...The three settings work perfectly once it's broken in properly and set to the correct pressure. | | Weaknesses: | Three way switch sucks a lot! It's too flimsy and easy to tap it accidently. Furthermore, mine decided to just fall off completely on the second lap of the first race I did this season. Still waiting for a replacement part from my dealer, which isn't covered under warranty... | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Stock 05 Element 50 | | Bottom Line: | It works great!! The three way switch is a bother though...I hope it's a cheap replacement fix! It's a great XC shock. 100mm of travel. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Leary
a Weekend Warrior
from Parkgate, United Kingdom
Date Reviewed: January 2, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Marin Trail, Gwydr Forest | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Bike Factory, Chester | | Strengths: | Fits my Marin Rock Springs 02 in 185mm fit.
Solid and looks very well made.
Doesn't lose air.
Platform damping really works. | | Weaknesses: | Expensive, but then I expect you get what you pay for. | | Similar Products Used: | None, other than bog standard SID XC can which was poor. | | Bike Setup: | Marin Rock Springs, SPDs, Mavic Crossmax Enduro & 2.1 Panaracer Trailrakers, Manitou Black forks. | | Bottom Line: | Pro-pedal settings give me virtually zero bob on my single-pivot frame. If I want to be rattled less on the downhills, I turn it to a squidgier setting and Bob's your father's brother. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kovas Lapsys
a
from Denver, CO
Date Reviewed: December 13, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | MONARCH CREST, APEX | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | My BLUR shipped with a Fox Vanilla. I thought I would Upgrade to the RP3, but the truth is, I can't tell the difference! Can someone help me out here? I've adjusted everything back and forth, I still can't tell the difference between one RP3 setting and the next. I get the same amount of bob in all 3 RP3 settings. PLEAAAAASE, if you ride a Santa Cruz Blur, and you've got this shock dialed, cut me an e-mail. I can't figure it out worth a darn. I've read the manuals, adjusted the rebound, adjusted the preload air, nothing, nada. Same ol same ol. | | Weaknesses: | I can't tell any difference over the Fox Vanilla I had previously. Is Propedal useless on a Blur? HELP!!! | | Similar Products Used: | Fox Vanilla | | Bike Setup: | Santa Cruz Blur, old-school model (original), size XL. Manitou Minute 2 up front. Lots of race-face. I weigh in at about 180lbs. | | Bottom Line: | The shock is solid. It's built well, hasn't blown out or bottomed out. Since I can't figure out the Rp3 (or lack there of), I can't really comment on its platform abilities. It costs a fair amount if you buy it after-market (around $300+). Test ride it first. If you figure out the pro-pedal, let me know. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason
a
from Modesto
Date Reviewed: December 1, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Bottom Line: | THIS IS A FOLLOW-UP REVIEW: The shock has continued to work great. I love it! BUT...it developed a "squishing noise". I sent it to Fox and they serviced it. BUT...I still hear it once in a while. I have NOT noticed a negative change in performance. It just seems funny that I still hear it even after Fox serviced it. Oh well, I'd still buy it again. Great upgrade for my Santa Cruz Bullit! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob Engelhorn
a Weekend Warrior
from Kirkland, WA
Date Reviewed: November 30, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | direct from Titus | | Strengths: | Light, reliable | | Weaknesses: | very much an air shock, not very plush | | Similar Products Used: | virtually every shock on the market | | Bike Setup: | Titus Switchblade, Fox Vanilla 130, Thomson stem and post, Hadley hubs, Sapim spokes, Mavic 819 rims, XO rear derailleur, XTR from derailleur, XT cranks, XT disc brakes | | Bottom Line: | The bottom line is that for weight weenies or true cross country riders, this is probably a really great shock. It's very light and I have never had to add air. However, if you are into rough trail riding, or are used to a good quality coil shock, you will be disappointed. I was trying to keep my Switchblade as light as possible, yet be as trail worthy as it could be, but I just can't find the love for this shock. I even took the step of sending the shock into PUSH Industries. I've sent a Fox Vanilla RC rear shock into PUSH and the front fork on this bike and could feel the difference immediately. Not with the RP3 however. It still feels like a not so special air shock.
I've got an Intense 5.5 that has a Fox DHX Air, and while it is heavier than the RP3, it is the hands down winner in comfort. The DHX Air is the first air shock that is close to a coil in comfort.
Here's the deal. If you're a cross country rider or a weight weenie, this is a five star shock. If you value comfort and control more than weight, then its a three star shock. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Phil Esempio
a Racer
from Cleveland, OH
Date Reviewed: November 29, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Mohican Loop | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | Eddy's BIke Shop | | Strengths: | Light weight, ProPedal platform damping | | Weaknesses: | Very difficult to install on an older bike like mine (see below); poor technical and customer service support from Fox. | | Similar Products Used: | Cane Creek AD-5 | | Bike Setup: | 2001 Gary Fisher Sugar 3 w/Marzocchi Z.3 Air; upgraded to Avid Mechanical discs, flat bar w/bar ends, RaceFace Next LP crankset/Taperlock Cro-Mo BB | | Bottom Line: | I was considering upgrading to a 4" XC bike with platform damping, such as the Fisher Cake or Trek Fuel EX, when I decided to upgrade my trusty Sugar with this beauty. To put it briefly - I no longer need a new bike. The Float RP3 tranformed the Sugar, already a decent climber, into a match for any hardtail. I'm not a huge fan of lockouts for rear shocks (unless they are remotely operated), as it's too easy to forget to unlock it before you start your descent, and then it's too late once you start bombing down the hill at 25+ mph to try and reach down and find it, while navigating with one hand. This is a "set it and forget it" shock - find the right air pressure, rebound, and ProPedal settings that work for you, and you're done. The Cane Creed AD-5 that originally came on the bike had a very harsh rebound cycle, and was non-adjustable except for air pressure. The Fox Float RP3 never blows through it's entire travel like the AD-5 did, nor does it kick back harshly in a transition as a result of too little high-speed rebound damping. The thing just works, and works well.
On the down side though: Fox put me through hell trying to get this thing ordered and installed. First, they said they shipped it; when the shop asked for a tracking number, they changed their story to "backordered". Then, they refused to ship it at all until I acknowledged there was "no warranty" on this shock, since the original Sugar design ('99 - '01) was not one that Fox officially provided aftermarket support. Then, when it finally did arrive, it took 8 different special orders between Fox and Trek to get the right spacers and bushings to make this thing fit the bike correctly. This despite the fact that the shock was the same length and travel (6.5" x 1.5") as the original AD-5, and despite the fact that my shop provided Fox with the exact specifications on the linkage and bushing requirements. Trek was immensely helpful in providing the required spacers and bushings to make this thing fit properly; I ended up rebuilding the entire rear end of the bike in the process. I can't completely blame Fox for this, as I was trying to use the shock in a "non-supported" application; but still, the resistance we recieved was unreal. The bottom line was, my bike was in the shop for 2 months, forcing me to ride a 100-mile MTB race on a hardtail; but when I finally got it back on the dirt, all of that waiting was worth it. My hardtail may never see a race course again!
This shock is really ideal for the XC racer or serious recreational XC rider looking to upgrade an older suspension system. Even with all the grief that Fox put me through to get one of these, I'm still glad I did it. And if Fox gives you the same line of BS they gave me about it being an "unsupported aftermarket application" - tell 'em to keep their warranty and just ship it! The shock is completely rebuildable by any decent mechanic, and there isn't much inside to fail, other than the seals (which are easily and inexpensively replaced). You'll feel like you own a new bike, at a fraction of the cost.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan
a Weekend Warrior
from Waterloo, Ontario
Date Reviewed: November 14, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Came with frame | | Strengths: | RP3 really works, super light, smooth | | Weaknesses: | perhaps durability as I freeride it but it's held up so far | | Similar Products Used: | Vanilla R | | Bike Setup: | Rocky Mountain Switch | | Bottom Line: | I was amazing when I got my warrentee replacement frame and it came with this shock. I've never been a big pedalling efficiency guy but this shock really opened my eyes. There is a world of difference between the propedal extremes, on a suspension design like my switch that isn't intended to pedal amazing like say the VP-Free you'll notice a huge difference. I would still suggest that freeriders go for the DHX air but my experience with this shock has been awesome over this short period. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fox Shock
a Weekend Warrior
from Melbourne, VIC, Australia
Date Reviewed: November 4, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | any | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Great shock, light, looks and functionality | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | Manitou swinger, 5th element | | Bike Setup: | standard | | Bottom Line: | Great shock, light, looks and functionality. It would be nice with lockout control but its ok. I can do XC, Enduro & chicken run DH. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Darius (Uberclyde)
a Cross Country Rider
from Manila, Philippines
Date Reviewed: October 25, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | bushy aeta bonecrusher | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Purchased At: | Christy's bike shop, Cartimar | | Strengths: | Light weight, plush for an air shock, simple yet effective adjustability. | | Weaknesses: | Gets really hot over long rough runs, which probably speeds up seal wear. Fastest rebound setting not quite fast enough in some conditions. | | Similar Products Used: | Cane Creek cloud nine, 5th Element coil, Romic T2, various other Fox | | Bike Setup: | 2003 Heckler, SRAM X.0, Z1 FR, Thomson and Race Face | | Bottom Line: | Replaced the much overhyped 5th Element coil which required such a big spring for my fat butt that I was losing half of my travel to ramp-up. Put 200 lbs of air in this puppy and took off - beaut. The three settings are noticeably different, with the pro-pedal or firm setting providing a ice blend of compliance and pedaling efficiency, and the soft setting feels as plush as a coil spring.
I have one mild beef and one concern. The concern, expressed by others on the shocks discussion board, is that this thing really heats up over the course of a steepish, rough ride. After 10 km of steep washed out fire road full of baby heads, the body of the shock was HOT to the touch. I wonder if this translates into shorter seal life? My Cane Creek Cloud Nine, which does not pedal as nicely, never heated up like this.
My mild beef is that for steep chattery descents, the rebound, even fully open, is a tad slow so the shock tends to pack up until you hit a smooth spot and it has a chance to recover stroke. This only happens on fast washboard type or rough washed out dirt road conditions.
All in all, I am very happy. If this thing goes for more than a year without service than it will be the equal of top offerings from Cane Creek in terms of durability. It is far superior in terms of adjustability and overall ride feel. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris yack
a Cross Country Rider
from malverne ny usa
Date Reviewed: October 18, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Junkie | | Strengths: | works as advertised, light, quiet, 3 way adjuster very usefull | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | Fox Float RL AVA | | Bike Setup: | Santa Cruz Superlight,Fox F80RLT | | Bottom Line: | WOW!!! It's like I'm on a new bike...before to get the bike efficient I had to pump up the shock and take the beating. Now I've got comfort and efficiency. My single pivot bike has new life. The shock is very quiet and the 3 pro-pedal settings work well. I love it. the best upgrade I've ever made....was considering buying a new bike..now I don't need to. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
t
a Weekend Warrior
from fort collins, CO
Date Reviewed: October 10, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | any single track | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$390.00 | | Purchased At: | blue sky | | Strengths: | this rating is for the 2006 rp3...excellent product, light, easy to adjust, functional. buttery feel. made my ride enjoyable, soaks up all the bumps...i'll provide review on this product in the future given i've only rode with it about 20 trail miles. rp3 and rebound settings work beautifully and easy to be reached. | | Weaknesses: | this shock provides the full travel (1.5 travel)even if you put in more air than required for the proper sag...bottoms out on me all the time just riding rough rocky trail. light riders (like me #140) may find it difficult to get it dialed in just right. | | Bottom Line: | buy this product if yu are a trail rider who dont mind the bottoming out issue. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Garth
a Weekend Warrior
from South Africa
Date Reviewed: October 9, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Brilliant design and looks awesome. Smooth as butter. Quiet and handles everything I've thrown at it. | | Weaknesses: | None. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized FSR | | Bike Setup: | Race face cranks ,SRAM shifters, avid juicy seven disks | | Bottom Line: | My first foray into the all mountain category. Coming from a cross country racing background I am singularly impressed with the way this bike handles and rides. It is not a pig on the uphills, burns the flats and rides like a dream on the down hills.
Best bike I've ridden. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob
a Weekend Warrior
from Carmarthen, W/ Wales, UK
Date Reviewed: September 28, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Glyncorrig at Afan Argoed | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Top performance shock | | Weaknesses: | Alloy pivot bush's (my GT's got stainless ones) | | Similar Products Used: | 5th element | | Bike Setup: | GT i-drive5 (1) | | Bottom Line: | Top performance with pro pedal options | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Vernon
a Cross Country Rider
from Tulsa, OK
Date Reviewed: September 7, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | T-Town Bicycles | | Strengths: | Very good linear response. Seems to get more power to the ground when you pedal hard without bob, even in the lightest setting. | | Weaknesses: | Maybe to linear. Used all the travel bombing through the Ho Chi Mien on Turkey Mountain but didn't bottom out. Trail is technical rocky single track with basiclly no big drops.
Sag setting is a little vauge. Seems to have the same amount of sag over wide pressure ranges.
| | Similar Products Used: | Various Fox and RockShox. | | Bike Setup: | 2001 Fuel 98 with not much stock components left | | Bottom Line: | Very good shock for heavier riders but may bottom out on big drops. I only do XC and so far it seems to be ideal.
Seems to be a good match to a Fox F100 RLT front fork. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Yogi
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver
Date Reviewed: August 30, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$250.00 | | Strengths: | Very plush, awesome platform, adjustible. | | Weaknesses: | None so far | | Similar Products Used: | Fox float RL, Fox AVA Float, Fox Float with Propedal, Manitou Swinger | | Bike Setup: | Intense Tracer, full XTR, Fox TALAS with Stratos ID (inertial damping) cartridge, Mavic Crossmax wheels. | | Bottom Line: | This rear shock is amazing! It seriously breathed new life into the already phenomenal performance of my Tracer's FSR link. I would honestly say it has improved my pedaling efficiency by 10-15%. The bike floats and tracks over the rough stuff and never bottoms out harshly, and it immediately returns to a stable, bob-free platform when the trail smooths out. The beauty of Propedal is that you can keep the air pressure in a more plush range since the Propedal (not just the air pressure) prevents bobbing. It took me a couple of rides before I realized that I didn't need to use a ton of air pressure. I am a heavier rider (195-200 lbs) so I used to find it hard to get a plush ride without bobbing. Not anymore!
I usually leave the shock in the middle propedal setting since it is the best match with my TALAS fork. I installed a Stratos ID cartridge in the TALAS fork which adds a stable platform to the front. It's a phenomenal combination.
For the record...I did own a bare bones Float with Propedal prior to the RP3 and it performed very well too. The adjustibility of the RP3 is nice, but the Float with Propedal would probably be fine for most people. Still, I would recommend the RP3 to anyone that wants to dramatically boost their bike's performance. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
30x26
a Weekend Warrior
from Italy
Date Reviewed: August 29, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | it doesn't bob, light, good on paved road and smooth gravel uphills, easy to resell | | Weaknesses: | overdamped. harsh. rebound too slow under 160psi, even in full fast position. | | Similar Products Used: | float ava propedal, fox triad , cane creek, rock shox , x-fusion... | | Bike Setup: | 5.5 inches monopivot , ratio 1:2.8 | | Bottom Line: | Do not buy this shock if you weight less than 180lbs (i weight 145lbs, tested at 120psi), you can find something better for less money.
At low pressures you can feel the platform even in "plush" position: this is *never* plush.
Big volume of air: good in medium bumps but you cannot jump more than 2-3feet with standard sag. Bad comfort on small bumps.
Perhaps a good idea for xc racing bikes, not for serious off-road. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Elliott
a Cross Country Rider
from Guilford,VT,USA
Date Reviewed: August 17, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | Burrows Specialized Sports | | Strengths: | Light weight, smooth ride, dependable and it works better than I thought it would. | | Weaknesses: | Price | | Similar Products Used: | Fox Vanilla | | Bike Setup: | Kick butt XC bike | | Bottom Line: | The shock has improved my climbing of technical new england single track with roots, rock gardens and MUD. My bike seems to spring forward after I installed the RP3. If the price is the weakness, then save up and buy one. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve Marshall
a
from Steamboat Springs
Date Reviewed: July 18, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | all of them | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$489.00 | | Purchased At: | PUSH Industries | | Strengths: | This review is for a new 2006 Fox RP3 that I purchased from the good folks at PUSH Industries and then they applied their magic to it to make it the ultimate air shock!
| | Weaknesses: | None whatsoever - more than lives up to its reputation and rating here, plus the PUSH mod puts it over the top. | | Similar Products Used: | PUSH'ed Fox Float RL, Fox Float RL, 5th Element Air, Fox Float R Brain, Rock Shock Coupe Deluxe | | Bike Setup: | 2005 Moots Cinco, Moots laid back seat post, Thomson stem, FSA K-Force Mega Exo Cranks, 2005 Fox Talas RLC 130 (PUSH'ed), Rohloff Chain, DT 240s disc hubs, DT 4.1d rims, DT Triple Butted spokes, XTR shifter/brake combo, XTR 952 rear derailleur, XTR 11-34 cassette, XT front derailleur, XT disc calipers, XTR rotors, Galfer carbon/kevlar pads, Maxm MX-6 riser bars, Salsa Skewers, Crank Bros. Candy SL pedals, Conti Vertical Pro 2.3 UST rubber, Oury Lock-on grips. | | Bottom Line: | The difference between the 5th Element Air that came stock on the Moots and this RP3 is night and day - I feel as though I have a new bike. The 5th Element felt like a piece of wood compared to this shock - the positive (+)position gives me a great platform for pedaling uphill and then a flip to the negative (-) side provides an incredibly plush ride for the downhill. The indents on the ProPedal switch for 2006 are great, too.
It is well worth the extra $$ to have a new shock PUSH'ed, too; it is tuned for my riding weight, the leverage ratio of my bike and my riding style - aggressive XC.
At 200 lbs. riding weight, 150 psi is perfect and I am not bottoming out, even with moderate air time. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Christopher
a Cross Country Rider
from Rapid City, SD USA
Date Reviewed: July 16, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Came stock on bike | | Strengths: | Soaks up the bumps well.
Rebound adjustments allow the perfect performance. | | Weaknesses: | Propedal system doesn't work AT ALL - I MEAN A T A L L.
Propedal lever hard to position correcly due to weak spring and plunger system. | | Bike Setup: | Cross country, wooded trails, etc... | | Bottom Line: | I absolutely cannot tell even a hint of difference in performance when properly changing between the 3 propedal settings. This is a brand new shock on a brand new Trance 1 bike. I ride 1hr every other day and nothing has changed. I've repeated various hills and terrains over and over, testing the different settings and THERE IS NO DIFFERENCE. The rebound adjustment knob generates huge performance changes between it's limits of adjustment. Why not even a little with the propedal. Am I missing something here? Please email me if so. I've not taken the unit apart and it is properly adjusted to my weight. The shock in general performs well but the only disappointment is that I paid for the propedal system and don't feel I've gotten anything for it! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike V
a Weekend Warrior
from Littleton, CO USA
Date Reviewed: July 10, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | All Jeffco Open Space | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$360.00 | | Purchased At: | Littleton Cyclery | | Strengths: | Adjustability, 3 pro pedal settings make setup easy | | Weaknesses: | Non yet, I'll keep you posted | | Similar Products Used: | Romic | | Bike Setup: | Turner 5-Spot, Z-1, SRAM drivetrain, Hope Mono-Mini's.... | | Bottom Line: | This is actually an '06 that Blake from Littleton Cyclery managed to score. I can tell you that Fox has fixed the problem with the pro pedal knob, it has three very distinct notches. The shock has only been on 3 weeks but so far it is an excellent replacement for the Romic that came standard on my '03 5-spot. I would say that the middle setting climbs slightly better than the Romic yet remains plush!(and yes we do climb a lot here). The firm setting is best suited for fire roads. The softest setting descends better than the Romic, so I set middle for climbs, and soft for descents. I couldn't be happier, especially when you factor in the 1 lb. weight savings!
Thanks Fox for a great shock, and thanks to Blake at Littleton Cycler for setting me up! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
j c
a Cross Country Rider
from Macon, ga
Date Reviewed: June 13, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | bike tech | | Strengths: | Great adjustability, it makes a world of difference from the stock shock. the different setting on this thing are amazing, the stiff setting is great for climbs, and on tight single track stuff. | | Weaknesses: | The propedal lever moves really easy, so easy you can push it past the postion you are trying to put it in. The rebound dial is a pain to get to in the bike that i have. other models might not have that issue. | | Similar Products Used: | stock fox shock. | | Bike Setup: | 200 fsr xc, black elite air, fox rp3 rear. xt drivetrain, avid ti brakes, hugi hibs on sun 0 deg rims. | | Bottom Line: | this shock was worth the money, i was thinking about buying a new f/s bike but with this new shock it has made this bike fantastic, no way i am going to get rid of it now. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JR
a Cross Country Rider
from Ft.Mill, SC
Date Reviewed: June 7, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | laurel mtn to big creek - Pisgah NF | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$370.00 | | Purchased At: | webmountainbike.com | | Strengths: | no bob on the climbs, super plush on downhills. the best of both worlds. | | Weaknesses: | propedal adjustment lever is a little too loose. its easy to over adjust especially on the fly. just takes some getting used to. | | Similar Products Used: | fox float R | | Bike Setup: | '02 custom cannondale super V frame, all XTR | | Bottom Line: | A great shock period.
No bob on the climbs means you get to the top before your buddies who don't have RP3s. Completely adjustable for your style means dial it in, grip it and rip it and ride all day. Rode 70 miles in Pisgah memorial day weekend, and not one complaint. I'd recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade. The price? You get what you pay for... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
simon ruchti
a Cross Country Rider
from glattfelden, zh, ch
Date Reviewed: June 6, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | 600 | | Strengths: | high price | | Weaknesses: | is working like a cheap overdamped shock | | Similar Products Used: | 5th element, 5th element air, manitou swinger air 3 & 4 way, | | Bike Setup: | i tired a lot of different setups for my nicolai helius cc. non of them was working well. | | Bottom Line: | save the money for other products | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Elliott
a Cross Country Rider
from Guilford, VT, USA
Date Reviewed: June 5, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | steep | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | Burrows Specialized Sports | | Strengths: | Weight and efficiency. | | Weaknesses: | Price. | | Similar Products Used: | Fox Vanilla | | Bike Setup: | Jamis Dakar Sport on steroids | | Bottom Line: | The RP3 is simply amazing. I have noticed a significant increase in my ability to climb insane rocky ant rooty single track without spinning out. And the descents are softer than a baby's rear. A little pricey but overall it's worth every cent. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
B.W.
a Cross Country Rider
from Silverthorne, CO
Date Reviewed: June 3, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$370.00 | | Purchased At: | lbs | | Strengths: | 3-way switch, fox quality | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | fox float, manitou ql | | Bike Setup: | 2003 intense tracer | | Bottom Line: | makes my bike feel like a new ride. rocket fast on the climbs, plush as hell on the way down. the 3 way switch is perfect, no messing with special air chambers that leak, and easy as hell to change on the fly (try to do that with spv). makes all those new designs like vpp seem like a wasted exercise. if you want to upgrade your old 4-bar or single pivot to the latest in effeciency, buy it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brett
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle
Date Reviewed: May 21, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Most all produce a BIG smile! | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Speedgoat (Came with bike) | | Strengths: | Light, good adjustability, super sweet ride | | Weaknesses: | As mentioned by many others, the firmness adjustment lever is much too loose. Why? | | Similar Products Used: | First FS, been riding HT for 7 years! Anyone need a cheap HT!? | | Bike Setup: | Titus Racer-X 100. SRAM X-0, Thompson, Kings, Fox 100X, etc. $$$$ | | Bottom Line: | Well, it took me 7 years, and WOW what a SWEET ride! I've never owned my own FS, but I have ridden a few in the past and thought they felt "springy" and heavy. This shock doesn't carry either of these undesireable characteristics, and has made me a believer. If you're not into BIG drops, I'm sure you will be quite pleased with this shock. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Yancey
a Weekend Warrior
from Austin
Date Reviewed: May 8, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Came with my Trance Frame | | Strengths: | Mid and Hard settings are good enough for me for all of my mountain biking. Hard when I know I am in for a climb, and Mid is wonderfull for everything else. | | Weaknesses: | I have to set the pressure a little high to compensate for my desire to hit a 2-3 foot drop occasionally. This is not a shock that will work well with big aggro drops, it is far to linear and will use all of its travel if given the chance. | | Bike Setup: | 05 Giant Trance, Manitou Minute 2 fork - Awesome combo. | | Bottom Line: | Best shock I have ridden, stable, anti-bob yet oh so plush | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
J D
a
from Canada
Date Reviewed: April 29, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | not tellin | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Good for XC riding, well built, looks good. | | Weaknesses: | I set it to the correct sag level and all it takes is a tiny little bunny hop and I bottom out. | | Similar Products Used: | Swinger 3-way/4-way, 5th element | | Bike Setup: | Santa Cruz Heckler | | Bottom Line: | It does'nt ramp up so it realy sucks for all mountain riding. But it is good for XC so I will give it 2 chilis for overall rating
SPV works way better
I'M GETTING A SWINGER 4-WAY AIR SOON!!!!!!!!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Niklaus Hartmann
a Weekend Warrior
from Cochabamba, Bolivia
Date Reviewed: April 23, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Punta Escuela, Escalarani | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Came on bike | | Strengths: | Plush, so so so plush. Stiff, so so so stiff. And if you're in an in between kind of terrain its got a bit of both. | | Weaknesses: | As mentioned on previous reviews, the ProPedal knob is a little bit loose and requires a it of practice before you can use it "on the fly", but all in all its an incredible shock. | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Santa Cruz Blur 4x '05 w/ SRAM transmission | | Bottom Line: | You will just love to sit on your bike, which coming to think about it will make you a lazy bum, its just so comfortable to sit on your bike, even on the rockiest and loose of terrains, and there's plenty of those here. Just a little annectdote, the other day I was out riding when I went down this little ledge, guess what, there was a root sticking out which I didn't see. Well I got stuck and then unstuck. the shock just bounced me off the root, and when I hit the ground, but there was no bounce, there was no ouch, I just kept going, as if nothing happened. Trust me, on a hardtail, that would have been a pretty knarly fall. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ken
a Weekend Warrior
from Redlands, CA
Date Reviewed: April 20, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Santa Ana, CA or GooseBerry Mesa, UT. | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Great rebound.
Plush when you need it, stiff for the uphill. | | Weaknesses: | None! | | Similar Products Used: | Float R | | Bike Setup: | Specialist RockHopper xc | | Bottom Line: | Loved my ride for downhill ... hated it for up. Now I'm loving both. All three settings are finding use. Stiff for uphill, mid for mixed and plush for taking all the downhill I can handle. The setting lever is a little loose and it's difficult to know I've put it in the correct position just by feel. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dan m
a Cross Country Rider
from chico, ca
Date Reviewed: April 14, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Greengate trails | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | Cambria Cycles (Auburn) | | Strengths: | AKA Septune (on Specialized Stumpjumper, Enduro, and Epic bikes)... Came stock on the '05 Stumpjumper 120 Exp... Overall the best shok I've ever ridden, feels like having a coil with twice the strength! Took some big hits (7-10 footers) and jumped back wanting more. Really dig the adjustability and ProPedal function (like heaven on lame hills). also has easy access for maintenance and cleanin. | | Weaknesses: | Only problems i've dealt with is the firmness switch, which sometimes moves if i brush it with my leg. Takes a little while to break in and dial for the new guy, just be sure to it clean for smooth running | | Similar Products Used: | Progressive 5th element, Romic second | | Bike Setup: | 2005 Specialized Stumpjumper 120 Expert Disc (Bontrager wheelset, Maxxis tires, Raceface stem+post+crankset) | | Bottom Line: | Seriously, this is a great shock for the new guy that wants something smooth, soaks up the bumps, and adjusts easily to changing conditions... smooth, fast, and easy! what more could you want? | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dwight
a
from Santa Cruz, CA
Date Reviewed: February 11, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Any trails in the Santa Cruz Mtns. | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Scotts Valley CycleSport | | Strengths: | Light weight, pro pedal adjustments, closest to coil like feel of any air shock and easy to set up so you can ride. | | Weaknesses: | The adjustment knob for the pro pedal settings is a little loose but works fine. A little expensive but worth it. | | Similar Products Used: | Fox Float & Fox Float R | | Bike Setup: | 2005 Gray powdercoat Heckler- medium. Fox Talas 125RLC, Fox RP3 rear shock, xtr & xt, race face crankset, thomson seatpost & stem, avid mechanicals, speedplay frogs, mavic xc717 w/ dt swiss 240s fr wheel, bontrager select rear wheel, wtb laser v seat. | | Bottom Line: | I saw an earlier review that stated this shock is a must for single pivot fs bikes and I could not agree more. This is best rear shock that I have used, Although I have not used a lot of rear shocks. The 3 pro pedal settings work great for varied riding conditions. I am very pleased with this shock. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt G.
a
from Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
Date Reviewed: February 9, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Depends... | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Monkey Wrench Cycles - Lincoln, NE | | Strengths: | Bump absorption quality; adjustable pedaling platform; weight for a 2" stroke damper. | | Weaknesses: | On a low-leverage ratio suspension design (like my Kona at 1.8:1), the rebound (even wide open) is a bit slow. At 160lb, I only have to run 120lb of pressure in the damper, but the rebound damping feels more appropriate for someone running 150 or 160lbs in the shock. | | Similar Products Used: | '01 Fox Float RC, '02 Fox Float RL, '03 and '04 Maverick M-bits shocks | | Bike Setup: | 2005 Kona King Kikapu; Manitou Minute 2 (100mm) fork; XTR drivetrain | | Bottom Line: | Overall, the RP3 is the best air-sprung rear damper I've used. Other than slightly sluggish rebound (for my preferences), it really raises the bar for bump absorption and a tunable, responsive platform damping system. Overall, I'm very impressed. It's a good time to love riding bikes!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chrisco
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney Australia
Date Reviewed: February 8, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Changes every ride | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$530.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Addiction | | Strengths: | Works as well as all pf these reviwers say it does, i.e. near perfect control of the rear end of your bike over a wide range of conditions.
Spookily light for a component that takes such a hammering.
Great on-the-fly adjustability.
Typically excellent Fox engineering quality. | | Weaknesses: | Piss weak indents on propedal switch.
Rebound damping doesn't go light enough.* | | Similar Products Used: | Fox Float RL/Itch Switch (non Propedal), SID Adjust, Fox Vanilla | | Bike Setup: | Specialized '03 S-Works Enduro. 2 ring/bashguard. Fox Talas with Stratos ID cartridge. Fox RP3 shock. Mavic EX 823 rims/Hope Bulb hubs. | | Bottom Line: | I was happy with my Enduro but over the last two years, stable platform designs have transformed the mountain biking world. To catch up I ordered and fitted a Stratos ID (inertia valve cartridge) to my Fox Talas fork. Brilliant, but now all of the motion during pedaling was exagerated at the back of the bike. I would have sent my shock to Fox for a Propedal upgrade but, they are not available for the Specialised Itch Switch model.
That was it, I had to spend more money (I didn't have) and get an RP3. Now I have a beutifully ballanced, stable platform bike. It's hard to comprehend how well that little featherweight shock filters out that much bobbing. There is still some movement but now The bike spints (out of the saddle) like a ridgid chassis, only it softens bumps in the process. Nothing it did before has been affected with the exception that it is a bit harsher on square edged bumps. I can live with that.
The FSR linkage is one of the best and I've found that the middle position of the Propedal switch is perfect 80% of the time. The softest position gives a slightly better small bump performance but a bit of bob creeps in. I have to say though that even this softest position is a mile better than my pre-propedal Float.
The anoying problem for me was that the sloppy propedal lever wouldn't stay in the middle position. On the first 2 hour ride it found its way into the softest setting 6 times. Fox siad it couldn't be adjusted and, to be honest, talked down to me a bit about the issue. In the end I found a simple solution. I glued a small o-ring to the lever so it wedges agaist the shock body in the middle position and stays there.
The rebound is very slow on this shock. What was 6 clicks in on my old float was full speed on this one. Having said that, it has slowly sped up slightly. I am now using 2 clicks from full fast but I know plenty of riders who prefer less damping than me.
Not a perfect shock but by far the best I've ever used! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jaco
a Cross Country Rider
from escazu
Date Reviewed: January 16, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | el filo | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Purchased At: | hammerheadbikes | | Strengths: | coil feel, easily adjustable range of options from firm to plush that you can actually tell a difference | | Weaknesses: | none yet | | Similar Products Used: | float r | | Bike Setup: | HH | | Bottom Line: | It has brought new life to my HH. I dont usually make $300 upgrades on a whim and even so I was skeptical on whether I had made a right choice. It took me only a single ride to realize the money had been very well spent.
Weighs less than the float r while being definately plusher with a more coil like feel to it and the 3 different settings are definately distint from each other and do what theyre supposed to although I know some claim otherwise. The rebound works much better than pn other fox shox and thus the bike tracks better also. Fox should come up with an RP3 fork. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Charles Romein
a Cross Country Rider
from Sharon, SC, USA
Date Reviewed: January 13, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Springs Greenway | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Cambria | | Strengths: | Does what Fox claims for it | | Weaknesses: | Setting lever is a little loose. | | Similar Products Used: | Sid dual air | | Bike Setup: | Blur with Spinergy Xyclone PBO wheels | | Bottom Line: | I've heard really good things about speed sensitive valving in propedal and SPV shocks. So far, Fox has made a believer out of me. Sometimes in sections that would have been painful on my older bike, I find myself looking at the back wheel to see if the tire is getting soft. The plush setting really soaks up the bumps from roots and rocks. The climbing setting firms it up. This is very usable technology. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dennis
a Cross Country Rider
from Murrieta
Date Reviewed: January 11, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Simpson Park | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$150.00 | | Purchased At: | Push Industries | | Strengths: | Awesome performance | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | 5th Element Air | | Bike Setup: | Tracer w/ XTR, XT, Race Face | | Bottom Line: | If you have a Fox shock that has blown and you are looking for a replacement, save yourself about $200 and send your Fox shock to Push Industries (Pushindustries.com) and have them rebuild it with their optional stable platform valving. I have my FOX Float RLC rebuilt for about $140 and the shock is better than anything I have ever used. I have a 2002 Intense Tracer and the shock has brought new life to the bike. The Tracer has always had great traction and suspension, but was sluggish. With the new shock it sticks like glue and actually accelerates. I ran across Push Industries by accident and wasn't ure what I was getting, but to save having to buy a shock I took a chance. What freakin luck. They are awesome. Some things do work out good. Word of warning, their web sight sucks, they need to work on that. Get a Push rebuild, you won't be sorry! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tal
a Cross Country Rider
from Israel
Date Reviewed: January 7, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Much more linear than original shock.
Ingeniously simple yet very effective Propedal settings.
Light weight.
| | Weaknesses: | None yet. | | Similar Products Used: | Pre-propedal Fox Float RL | | Bike Setup: | Large 2002 Specialized S-Works FSR, SID SL fork, XT/XTR. (My weight: 185 lbs). I use the 6" x 1.25" FLaot RP3 (it took me a while to find out this size really does exist, as it does not appear in the Fox manual...) | | Bottom Line: | This thing is amazing - enough to get time sitting and writing this report. Before it, I really did not love my bike that much, for two reasons: (1) I constantly felt my power compressing the shock instead of moving th ebike forward, and repeatedly tried with little success to convince myself that this is how suspension bikes work, and that I would be effective by just concentrating on sitting and spinning (now I know differently). (2) my rear suspension was too progressive, and I could hardly get full travel, even with a huge sag.
The RP3 saved the day on both accounts: (1) The ride has suddently become very efficient, and (2) the more linear suspension enables me to get full travel with a normal 25% sag. (3) and all this without negating the pluses of the horst-link based FSR.
The difference between the 3 settings is definately noticeable. The fact that there are ONLY three settings is ingenious - it is so simple to modify while riding. I find myself riding in the firmest mode for 90% of the time (both up and down), and switching to the fluid mode on long and very bumpy descents.
The firmest Propedal mode absorbs hits beautifully, yet does not give me ANY SENSE of power-loss due to bob, including when powering up climbs and sprinting. 'Sense' is important here, since I DO still see the shock moving a little (this is most noticable in the movement of the cables around the shock). On the middle and fluid Propedal modes, I get a larger and larger SENSE of bob. There is a HUGE difference in the perceived efficiency when powering up climbs in the firm mode and the other modes. As a result, I tend to keep the firmest mode even when climbing in rough terrain. The bike remains definately absorbent ENOUGH for the terrain (although firmer than the other modes). It seems as if I suddently started to get all the pluses of the FSR horst-link suspension, and have gotten rid of its cons.
Setup has also been very easy.
Note that I have NOT tried the Brain shock of the Epic, nor have I tried the 5th element or SPV shocks, so I can not compare.
I am suddently in a strange spot: After planning for 3 years to replace my bike to the next dream ride (5 spot/RacerX/and such), I am suddently in the position to do this, but am not sure I am interested any more. The RP3 has proved to be the best upgrde I have EVER performed. I may just upgrade to a 100mm fork soon instead of a full bike replacement... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim
a Cross Country Rider
from Middletown, Ct
Date Reviewed: January 6, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Case Mountain | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | No perceptible bob in any of the modes. No spiking at end of travel. Plush without feeling squishy and inefficient. | | Weaknesses: | A little pricey | | Similar Products Used: | Cane Creek/earlier Fox (both coil & air)/Manitou Swinger/5th Element | | Bike Setup: | GF Sugar 2+ | | Bottom Line: | An earlier review noted the RP3 is a must for single-pivot frames. I couldn't agree more. The overall ride quality of my Sugar has improved immeasurably. I'd complain about the price but considering the improvement to my bike, feeling like I got a huge bargain.
Not enough rides to comment on reliability, but other Fox products I've used have held-up very well. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason
a
from Modesto, CA
Date Reviewed: January 5, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | 1. Light weight
2. Easy to adjust/set-up
3. Plush feel | | Weaknesses: | 1. Expensive | | Similar Products Used: | 1. Fox Float R
2. Fox Float RL
3. Fox Vanilla RC with aftermarket "PUSH" rebuild/revalving | | Bike Setup: | Santa Cruz Bullit with lighter "trail bike" components | | Bottom Line: | These are my initial thoughts after my first few rides (if anything goes wrong I'll write a follow-up review). NOTE: I am a 230 lb. clydesdale. I have recently lightened up my Bullit to about 30 lbs. and use it for trail riding. A major change was going from the Vanilla RC (with a "PUSH" revalve job) to the RP3. It was simple to bolt on, set the sag, and dial in the correct rebound. With all the new technology I really appreciate being able to quickly dial it in and go ride without pulling my hair out in frustration. I can feel a difference in the 3 Pro Pedal settings. I spend most of my time on relatively smooth single track so I ride it in the firmest setting. This setting seems to be as close to the lock-out feature on my old Float RL but it still absorbs bumps from the trail. This new technology gives you suspension when you need it without pedal induced "bob" (something a lock-out feature cannot provide). That seems to be the reason the lock-out feature has been removed from their new line of Float rear shocks. I do plan on riding "rougher" stuff (i.e. Downieville DH) and believe the 2 softer settings will come in handy. I really like the fact that I can make on-the-fly changes in the Pro Pedal settings (easily adjust for climbs or descents). I'm pleased with its feel on both small and big stuff. It feels a lot like my old upgraded Vanilla RC but much lighter...very plush compared to my older Fox Float models. It is expensive! Some may have a hard time justifying the cost to upgrade from a recent Stable Platform Valve model with similar characteristics. But I believe it would be well worth it for a serious rider who is upgrading from a much older shock that does not have Stable Platform Valve characteristics. It is also a good investment for someone wanting to go from a coil to air shock (without losing that coil feel). This new technology is a must for any single pivot frame! I'm pleased with my purchase (so far). Fox has been good in the past on warranty issues so I'm not worried about possibly getting a lemon. I feel this shock is outstanding, but I am going to subtract one chili on the value rating due to the expensive price tag. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
A J
a
from North Wales
Date Reviewed: January 2, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | All over Snowdonia | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Came on bike | | Strengths: | Very light and plush. Easy on-the-fly access to rebound and pro-pedal dials (depending on shock placement!)
New air chamber stops bottom out. | | Weaknesses: | Can't really tell the difference between the 3 pro-pedal settings. | | Similar Products Used: | Fox Vanilla, 5th Element Coil, Fox Float | | Bike Setup: | '05 Whyte 46 with all the trimmings. | | Bottom Line: | The shock works well and feels smooth, however the suspension setup on the Whyte isn't effected by pedal bob anyways, so it's quite hard to tell the difference between the 3 pro-pedal settings.
A great shock. Not quite as plush as a 5th Element, but a darn sight easier to setup. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ray Dolor
a
from San Diego CA
Date Reviewed: December 26, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | anything still there | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Does what it s' claimed to do. Amazingly lightweight.
Has held up to my skill-free riding style for several months. | | Weaknesses: | none so far. | | Similar Products Used: | Air shocks; Cane creek, Fox Float RC.
Coil shocks: Foc Van. RC, Romic TT | | Bike Setup: | 04 Ellsworth Joker w/ 6" travel frame shuttle installed,
Spinergy Xyclone disc wheels (nice), 05 RP3,
05 Fox Talas 130 RLC | | Bottom Line: |
I got the 04 Joker frame as a warranty replacement when my 01 developed a crack at the seat tube/top tube junction. Ellsworth gave me a nicely machined little shuttle to fit my 01 shock size, giving me the same 6" travel that I find perfect for overall trail riding. I liked the Romic, but I have to say that the RP3 is almost as plush on the small stuff. The Romic is a boat anchor in comparison, and I wanted to lighten the Joker up.
The 3 settings do each have a noticeable difference, but I find myself riding in the middle setting 90% of the time, occasionally switching to the full + setting for a longer climb.
Rebound control is good, but not as wide a range as on a Float RC that I have on an old Jamis Dakar, or the Romic.
The RP3 is a good match for the 05 TALAS fork that I just installed. I 've only had 2 rides with the TALAS, so I'll wait a while before I comment much on it. So far so good.
But I will say that the addition of the Fox fork and shock, along with the Spinergy Xylcone discs (which I have yet to need to true even after 3000+ clumsy trail-miles) has transformed the Joker into a pretty good overall trailbike.
A less efficient single pivot or 4-bar might still need a lockout from time to time, but for the Joker, the RP3 does the trick. Along with the TALAS fork, It's lightened the Joker by 2 lb.s without compromising performance.
And so far, it's held up.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gerr
a Cross Country Rider
from Atlanta, Ga
Date Reviewed: December 15, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Dear Creek, Co | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | With Bike | | Strengths: | Very smooth, supple shock. Feels about the same as last years Fox Air R/Propedal except with 3 levels of propedal. Easier to dial in compared to Fifth Element. | | Weaknesses: | Unfortunately, Fox doesn't see the need to satisfy the small group of mountain bikers that like a lockout lever anymore. Although there is a noticable differnce with 3 levels of propedal, it's no where near a lockout on the hard setting. You still would have to reduce the plushness to get it firm enough for me (155 lbs) I would need it at around 175 pounds pressure! I would love a rear shock valved for the Blur that is as adjustable as the Rock Shox Reba fork. Or how about just a RP3/L (with lockout.) Fox says they have no plans for that. Hopefully Sram/Rock Shox does ! (R/Shox currently have an MC3/R R/shock that has a remote that works with the Poploc remote for the Reba but Trek has an exclusive license on it for this year on The Fuel EX.) | | Similar Products Used: | Fox Float R, Fifth Element, Statos XC Pro | | Bike Setup: | SC Blur/2005 XTR
Spinergy PBO Cyclone Wheels see review here: http://www.mtbr.com/reviews/postreview.asp?ProductID=78132
Avid Mech/Disc 7" rotors, LP Composite Grips (see the Grips Bar end review here: http://www.mtbr.com/reviews/2005_front_shocks/product_124427.shtml
Rock Shox Reba Team Fork see review here: http://www.mtbr.com/reviews/Bar_End/product_17937.shtml | | Bottom Line: | Good shock till something with a little more adjustablity comes out. As stated above very supple like the Fifth but easier to adjust.
(As one might guess, this reviewer is spoiled by the adjustablity of the Reba Front Shock that gives you infinite level of MCD (ie. propedal) from almost complete lockout to super plush threshold with a neat remote lever no less.)
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Trent526
a Cross Country Rider
from Oklahoma
Date Reviewed: December 10, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$349.00 | | Purchased At: | Direct from Fox | | Strengths: | ProPedal is wonderful. RP3 gives simple, quick and noticable adjustment on the fly. | | Weaknesses: | Nothing yet! | | Similar Products Used: | Fox Triad(on Stumpjumper), Progressive 5th Air | | Bike Setup: | Santa Cruz Superlight, XTR, Manitou Skareb Platinum | | Bottom Line: | Love the ProPedal Triad shock on my Stumpjumper FSR wanted to try it on a simple, single pivot bike. It works beautifully. The Superlight is the simplest of pivots with no anti-bob engineered-in, but, the RP3 turns it into a great pedalling, very efficient design. Anyone looking for a light frame, shorter chainstays and better tight handling than a Blur, consider a Superlight with the Fox RP3.
Much simpler to use than a Progressive 5th Element Air. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
james hearn
a Weekend Warrior
from Cumbria, UK
Date Reviewed: December 8, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: | simple settinng's, adjustment actually makes a noticable differnce, propedal can be turned off (which is the major benefit) | | Weaknesses: | didn;t come accross any, yet | | Similar Products Used: | fox vanilla RC, romic twintube, fox float RLC/ R and Septune shocks | | Bike Setup: | it was a demo on an 05 kona kickapu deelux (though this shock is used right down to the cheapy kickapu std) | | Bottom Line: | The simplicity of this shock is its selling point, you can turn propedal from the medium normal position (90% of the time this is fine, for singletrack forest road, tarmac, gravel, gentle descending and smooth terrain climbing), or the fully on position (for boring tarmac sections and full on 180% aggressive climbing on smooth terrain)
or turned off (which i like using for rocky rough climbing as it allows the backend to track over all sorts, and for rough descending, allowing the shock to swallow up big impacts then rebounds quick enough to prevent the shock 'packing down')
If you've got a crap designed full bouncer (like konas, treks, anything single pivot or faux bar linkage activated) this is the shock to improve your ride.
If you have a well designed rear end that has genuine four bars or a marin/ whyte quad system you don't need it)
I MEAN WHATS THE POINT IN HAVING A SHOCK THAT YOU CAN'T WORK OUT TO ADJUST, THIS ONE IS SOOO SIMPLE IT COULD SELL ITSELF | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
fast and spastic
a Cross Country Rider
from bay area - cali
Date Reviewed: November 18, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Soquel demo- Saw Pit | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | Adrenaline Bikes | | Strengths: | WOW- You can really feel the difference betweeen the three settings! The stiff setting is almost no-bob, the plush is well, plush. Super light, easily adjusted while riding and afterwards. | | Weaknesses: | The shock blew up on me after two rides?! Seems to be an anomoly. Fox was great, payed for shipping both ways, Quick return. Seems like i have to have the shock pumped up too much? I weigh 190 and have it set at 205.... Rides great though. Might cost me on some small bumps. | | Similar Products Used: | Fifth element- Felt a little plusher but the RP3 pedals much better. | | Bike Setup: | Yeti 575- xt all around, hydro disc. | | Bottom Line: | Great shock- does what it says- try it out- you wont be disapointed. Would have given it 5 overall except for the shock blowing out. . | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dré
a Cross Country Rider
from L.A.
Date Reviewed: November 13, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$320.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo | | Strengths: | Light weight. Easy to set up and adjust. So far, no issues.. | | Weaknesses: | Uhhhhh.... | | Similar Products Used: | '02 Fox | | Bike Setup: | '02 Specialized S-Works FSRxc, full XTR, avid discs, Cane Creek Ti wheelset, Chris King headset. | | Bottom Line: | This thing works! Wanted to test stable platform. Breathed new life into my bike. ProPedal has almost eliminated bob, but stil get full travel when needed. Amazing technology! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
GreatSpiritz XCTrail
a Cross Country Rider
from Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines
Date Reviewed: November 10, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Libona | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$369.00 | | Purchased At: | Bikewerx | | Strengths: | Eliminate bobbing Fox was right. Light, easy to adjust | | Weaknesses: | None at all | | Similar Products Used: | Fox Float RC | | Bike Setup: | Intense Tracer 2001 with XTR dual control hydraulic disc brakes, Raceface Next LP carbon, Answer riser carbon bar, Thompson elite seatpost, Shimano 959 SPD pedals, Manitou Black Super Air, Easton Mag 60 Stem. | | Bottom Line: | This shock is the best for XC gone with the old shocks. This is it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Erin
a Weekend Warrior
from Hawaii
Date Reviewed: October 30, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Fox Racing | | Strengths: | Does what it says it will do. I have an Ellsworth Truth and Santa Cruz Blur. Both are great bikes but the Santa Cruz just climbed better with almost no lost of energy due to rider pedaling input. So I opted to swap out my Romic Ti twin tube on my Truth for the Fox RP3...wow! Went for a short hill climb and in the medium and stiff Pro Pedal settings there is no movement from rider pedaling input and very little in the softest setting. The Romic was moving all the time. Right from the factory the rebound setting was dead on so I didn't play with it. adjusted the air pressure/sag and all was well. Very smooth ride...coil like. Super light. | | Weaknesses: | None as I have not taken out on the trail yet...too much rain this weekend...but if it has the Fox dependability, this should be a winner. | | Similar Products Used: | Fox Float RL, Romic, Romic Ti | | Bike Setup: | Late model Ellsworth Truth, Fox Float RLC, Sram XO shifters/rear derailleur, RF crankset, Crossmax wheelset, Avid Mech disc front, Avid Arch Supreme rear. | | Bottom Line: | My Ellsworth Truth climbs like my Santa Cruz Blur...This is a "must buy" upgrade for your Ellsworth. I got mine direct from Fox and they shipped right away. Came with the wrong size reducers and they sent me the replacement ones at no cost. Great customer service and they know their products. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Doug
a Weekend Warrior
from NC
Date Reviewed: October 28, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Hobby Park | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$380.00 | | Purchased At: | lbs | | Strengths: | Let me preface this by saying this is the first FS bike I have owned, so I don't really have anyting other than my hardtail to compare this shock to, but....
HOLY CRAP!
This thing is awesome. It smooths out the trail like you would not believe, yet it doesn't bob around unless you are trying to make it bob, ie jumping up and down on the bike. All three modes feel different, and behave differently on the trails. You can actually make these adjustments on the fly, tailoring the amount of propedal to the terrain. Great when going to areas with hardball connecting the singletrack.
PS Be sure to put your actual body weight into the air chamber. This should give you a damn near perfect ride from the start. | | Weaknesses: | No remote lever for the propedal switch. Maybe modify a lock-out lever??????
| | Similar Products Used: | N/A | | Bike Setup: | 01 Specialized S-Works FSR w/RP3, Manitou Black fork, Avid disc brakes, Shimano drivetrain | | Bottom Line: | Get one. Do whatever you have to to get the money, because it's worth EVERY dime. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MANOLET SANTOS
a Cross Country Rider
from MANILA, PHILIPPINES
Date Reviewed: October 17, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Sta. Rosa & Ridge 2 !!! | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | Sabak Sports Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Extremely LIGHT!! Really PLUSH with ProPedal !! | | Weaknesses: | None -- so far!! | | Similar Products Used: | 5TH Element Air -> The WORST AIR shock anywhere!!!; Manitou 3 & 4 way Swingers. | | Bike Setup: | Intense EVP 5.5, XTR all the way, Thompson seatpost & stem, Manitou Minute 2 etc.... | | Bottom Line: | The RP3 is the smoothest performing shock I have ever tried. Very responsive yet ProPedal does what it should be doing. And the RP3 is super PLUSH when it need to be. Mo complaints here... THIS IS THE BEST UPGRADE ANYONE CAN DO TO ANY FULL SUSPENSION BIKE SETUP!!!!
I blew off THREE (3)5th Element Air rear shocks already! I dont even ride hard.. has something to do with seals NOT BEING TROPICALIZED for a tropical country like the Philippines.
I switched to the FOX RP3 and man, am I ever impressed. How I wish I had these first before the stupid 5th's.... peace!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JOHN LEE
a Weekend Warrior
from San Francisco, Ca
Date Reviewed: October 15, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Resolution Trail | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | vision | | Strengths: | Increadiblly lightweight. | | Weaknesses: | New product means new price. | | Similar Products Used: | Fox float, 5th element coil, Fox vanilla coil, and now the RP3 | | Bike Setup: | SC Heckler polished, Raceface turbine, XTR shifters, RD,FR, chain, Thompson post, stem, Singletrack with hadley hubs, Maxxis Minions, Easton DH carbon bars, Hayes Mag plus with 8" ringers, WTB lazer V saddle. | | Bottom Line: | This shock is pretty amazing. Very easy to change your rigs ride at a flick of a finger. Really light and feels stable on flat and up hill and flick the switch when you go down. Singletrack, fire road, downhill, nasty downhill, this shock is the bomb when you get it dialed in. Do not get disscourged at first. It will take at least 75 to 100 miles to really dial it in for your weight and style of riding. I have been pounding this thing for about 300 miles and it has not blown up yet. That is a lot better than my 5th element that lasted 1 ride. GET ONE NOW !!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill
a Cross Country Rider
from Norwalk, CT
Date Reviewed: October 5, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$369.00 | | Purchased At: | FOX | | Strengths: | superlightweight...much better than its predecessors, ease of use | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | Romic Ti, Swinger 3-way, Float RL, AVA | | Bike Setup: | Intense Tracer | | Bottom Line: | This is the nest rear shock i have bolted to my tracer and you can see above taht i have tried and owned several shocks. It is the most supple over smaller bumps and you get full travel on bigger hits. It smooths out the trail like no other shock i have ridden. And it's only 195 grams....that's super light.
All three positions work...need to hammer on a climb or flat? Turn on the pro-pedal. Bumpy descent ahead...turn it off. On an FSR type bike the 3-way leevr is very accessible. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Mt Clemens, MI USA
Date Reviewed: October 3, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Stoney Creek | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$369.00 | | Purchased At: | FOX factory | | Strengths: | Easy to adjust light weight well built looks cool !!! | | Weaknesses: | none so far | | Similar Products Used: | Float r,5th element | | Bike Setup: | 04" Stumpjumper FSR XT shifters,Fox Float rlc forx,Hayes hfx mag disc brakes, XT cranks,Thompson seatpost and stem XTR derailers,Xt hubs Mavic 317 rims | | Bottom Line: | This shock is awsome smooths the the trail like no other shock i have ever used. The three pro pedal settings are easy to switch on the fly no pedal bob. The firm pro pedal setting is great for hammering the flats and uphills keeps your tires on the ground the middle setting is great also and lightest setting is ultra plush. I would highly recomend this shock to anyone who is looking to upgrade or is building a new bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rider Eight
a
from Phoenix
Date Reviewed: September 28, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | 123bikes | | Strengths: | Larger Air Chamber, Plush, on-the-fly platform adjust | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | 2003 Float Pro=pedal | | Bike Setup: | Titus Switchblade Long Travel, FOX F100x, FOX RP3, Avid Mechs, Ultimate Levers, XTR Shifters, King Hubs/Headset, Thomson Post/Stem, etc. | | Bottom Line: | I have the long travel version of this shock and I am quite amazed with it. I get absolute full linear travel, way different than last years model. It is mega plush and has outstanding small bump compliance.
The best part though is the adjustable platform. 3 Unique settings, which all make a difference. Hard setting completely eliminates bob for me, and this includes standing, street riding and climbing/hammering, but unlike a lock-out, it's totally active, plush and still has small bump compliance..... and that's the hard platform.... 2 other modes which are super plush. Best thing is no air chamber to adjust, you can make the adjustments on-the-fly, flick the switch.
This shock is great for trail biking, and made for the Switchblade.
OH and kudos to 123bikes. It is a can-do internet shop. Dave is kick ass, he got me this shock before it was readily available, because it was the only thing I would take. He makes things happen for you, and doesn't use the word no. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lactic Addict
a Racer
from Chatham, NY, USA
Date Reviewed: September 25, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Portugese Roll | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$328.00 | | Purchased At: | Larry @ MTNHigh Cyclery | | Strengths: | Lightweight, Works as advertised, Better rebound than 2002 Float RL, Fox reliability (hopefully!). | | Weaknesses: | None so far. | | Similar Products Used: | 2002 Float RL. | | Bike Setup: | Santa Cruz Superlight with Skareb Elite SPV | | Bottom Line: | Initial impressions are really good. I can actually feel a difference between the 3 ProPedal settings - meaning it works as claimed! Since I only have 3 rides on this shock, it's too early to give a full report, but so far so good. I will post a follow up review in a month or so. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
| |
|
Photo Caption Contest
(sponsored by Maxxis)
|
Enter here
|
|
|
$
