Submitted by
chair_is_the_man
a Downhiller
from NZ auckland Date Reviewed: January 10, 2009
Favorite Trail:
air field DJ's
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$192.00
Purchased At:
torpedo7
Strengths:
light
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
fox DHX air
Bike Setup:
specialized:big hit(spec)
specialized:p2
Bottom Line:
great for
: trails
: road gaps
: DJ's
: DH
i recommend this product to some one who is no more than 80kg. i'm 59kgs but my frend rides my bike alot and hes about 95-100kgs
all over great
but not as good as Fox DHX air
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MCMickey
a Weekend Warrior
from South Africa Date Reviewed: October 14, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Tokai MTB
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Nice colour, Very cheap(you get what you pay for)
Weaknesses:
Valves are weak and bend easily, paintwork is shocking and comes off quickly, does not hold pressure for more than fifty feet.
Similar Products Used:
Fox RP3
Bike Setup:
All mountain
Bottom Line:
This is a real pile of $H%T, It completely blew on a very mild single track two foot jump, don't even consider this shock unless they give you an unlimited supply of replacements!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Reynolds
a Weekend Warrior
from England Date Reviewed: June 2, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Peak District
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
None
Weaknesses:
Schrader inflation valves diameter undersize,tons of pedal bob,loses air after a 1 fooy drop
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Enduro Expert
Bottom Line:
I have 2 of these shocks both have failed,5th element replaced the first shock with no fuss, The inflation valve threads are very poor fit,so much so i have to use ptfe tape in order to reach the max pressure..
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Larry Monas
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: September 23, 2007
Favorite Trail:
All of em
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Colorado cyclist
Strengths:
Wide range of adjustability (when it was working!)
Weaknesses:
Not robust at all! After about 1 year of weekend riding the thing won't hold air and the negative airspring does almost nothing. I understand progressive is out of the MTB biz and they aren't really supporting this flimsy product. After e-mailing them I was told a rebuild would be $150. I'm saving the dough for a FOX RP3.
Similar Products Used:
Rock shox, Marzocchi, Manitou,
Bike Setup:
2004 Blur, XT, FOX Talas, Mavic wheelset,
Bottom Line:
I got a few rides of excellent performance, but that good feeling has faded now that my suspension is sub par and I'm probably going to have to shell out around $300 for a FOX. I would avoid this shock.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert Molan
a Weekend Warrior
from Brisbane,Qld,Australia Date Reviewed: September 7, 2007
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Chainreaction cycle
Strengths:
dont know it failed before first ride
Weaknesses:
both air chambers leak - cannot ride more then 20 meters without total deflation.
Similar Products Used:
nil first full suspension bike
Bike Setup:
Mountain cycle zen, Marzochhi XC700 forks, Mavic Crosstrail with IRC Serac UST tyres, Shimano XTR brakes and mechs, raceface deus cranks,Xpedo Mountain Force pedals
Bottom Line:
just doesnt hold air pressure
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Phill Jung
a Cross Country Rider
from Piermont, NY 10968 Date Reviewed: July 27, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Too Many
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
came with Bike
Strengths:
Light weight
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Fox Vanilla
Bike Setup:
Pushed Fox Fork, Heckler, Race Face, Avid disk
Bottom Line:
I never really got it. The 5th element has always worked wonderful for me. I'm not hucking my bike, but I tend to really beat on it and the shock has never given me a single problem in the last two years. The shock got nothing but stellar reviews when it came out. You can pick one up new for next to nothing because of the negative reviews left on MTBR and I would highly recomend doing so.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Patrick
a
from Morgan Hill Date Reviewed: June 21, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Downieville
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Came with Frame
Strengths:
Light weight, IFP compression adjustment really works, makes pedaling uphill a breeze.
Weaknesses:
Hard to set IFP pressure as the volume is so small. 3 pumps and you are maxed. You lose about 25psi when you take off the chuck.
Similar Products Used:
Fox RP3, Cane Creek AD5
Bike Setup:
Mountain Cycle Zen XC Setup
Bottom Line:
This shock came with the frame which I got super cheap on Ebay brand new. First off progressive put the wrong valve cores in the schrader valves. They were too short so the shock pump would not register when attached. I filed down the outer lip of the valve so the core would be in the right place. Problem solved for 0 dollars.The shock has worked as it should but I find any IFP pressure at all ruins small bump compliance. Just not happy with the feel. I am replacing it with my old AD5 which I had leftover from a broken frame. Cane Creek is sending me the correct bushings for $20 and the AD5 is plush and the easiest shock to work on in the world.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Cross Country Rider
from tn Date Reviewed: June 18, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
came on my bike
Strengths:
none.
Weaknesses:
everything about this shock is a weakness.
Bike Setup:
2006 Iron Horse Azure World Cup
Bottom Line:
P.O.S.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ken cockrum
a Cross Country Rider
from denver Date Reviewed: June 16, 2007
Favorite Trail:
denver front range, all
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Came with Intense Spyder Free. 5 grams lighter than fox r3? who gives a S#!+.
Weaknesses:
Not A Fox. Leaked Oil after 5 rides, hard to keep air pressures up. Makes weird noises going downhill, sounds like a Dying seal.
Similar Products Used:
None, this is my first full susp. bike
Bike Setup:
Full XTR, Thompson, Fox talas rlc front, V-brakes
Bottom Line:
Works great if you are the type to buy a bike and ride it once, but if you plan on using your bike at all, replace this shock immediately or upgrade the frame before purchasing. 15 years of buying high end bikes and bike components tells me that Proggresive is getting away with selling CRAP!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
martin foat
a
from kent, england Date Reviewed: April 9, 2007
Favorite Trail:
palma majorca
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Strengths:
light
Weaknesses:
not sturdy enough
Bike Setup:
santa cruz sl
Bottom Line:
ok so im riding trails rockier and bumpier in majorcian sunshine but it must be a design fault of how the piston is attatched to the pivot pins,whilst riding along the street and turning right i heard i clunk noise on inspection the front pivot point was clean out off its poor excuse for a housing having what seems 2 'o' holding it in the centre,so unless im missing 4,'front and back' substantial parts to keep the piston in place i cannot believe the good reviews this probuct has recieved
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
martin foat
a
from kent, england Date Reviewed: April 9, 2007
Favorite Trail:
palma majorca
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Strengths:
light
Weaknesses:
not sturdy enough
Bike Setup:
santa cruz sl
Bottom Line:
ok so im riding trails rockier and bumpier in majorcian sunshine but it must be a design fault of how the piston is attatched to the pivot pins,whilst riding along the street and turning right i heard i clunk noise on inspection the front pivot point was clean out off its poor excuse for a housing having what seems 2 'o' holding it in the centre,so unless im missing 4,'front and back' substantial parts to keep the piston in place i cannot believe the good reviews this probuct has recieved
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Burkholz
a Cross Country Rider
from Menomonee Falls, WI,53051 Date Reviewed: September 29, 2006
Favorite Trail:
John Muir/EmmaCarlin
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
E Bay
Bottom Line:
I brroke neg air stem off. My mistake. I called Progressive to see about repair. They gave me an RA # and rough estimate of cost to repair. I sent it in and what do you know? Two weeks later it arrived as e-mail resonse indicated it would. No Charge! I don't know if you nay sayers didn't follow the simple instructions or if progressive improved C.S. but I'm totally stoked on them. Plus the shock is the baddest, lightest X.C. shock going. Keep up the great work!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
neil
a
from scotland Date Reviewed: June 27, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
This shock came stock on my Iron Horse hollowpoint. I bought the bike nervous I would soon have to replace the shock having seen many negative reviews on here. So far so good though. I've ridden maybe 3 times a week for the best part of a year, mostly trail type riding with a bit of light freeride stuff and (cowardly) downhill chucked in for good measure. I'm not doing anything bigger than maybe a 4t drop but I do a lot of things of that sort of size on the daily rides.
During this time the shock has operated perfectly with no servicing at all, it holds pressure as set and has never lost any when I've checked it - still rides like new today. I don't know if there was one bad batch, or I got lucky, but (so far) mine has been excellent - no complaints.
The IFP chamber really works well too - it took me a bit of jigging with the pressures but it now smooths out what little pedal bob made it through the bikes linkage while still feeling super smooth on the descents.
And it's light.
Weaknesses:
??? Maybe it'll suddenly break....
Similar Products Used:
Nowt.
Bottom Line:
While I would be very scared to spend money on this thing - given that many people seem to have had them blow up - I can't fault mine, it's been excellent so far, seems reliable, plush and durable. Would I buy another one though - not sure..... the horror stories would probably send me fox's way despite how good mine has been. ratings below are assuming you get lucky and get a good one like mine.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Justin
a Weekend Warrior
from Ellensburg, WA Date Reviewed: May 21, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Freud Canyon
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Recycle Shop
Strengths:
It looked good on the bike. IT felt great for the first few weeks. Adjustments were made easly. Soaked up all the bumps.
Weaknesses:
For the first few days it worked great. Then it would not hold air in one of the chambers. The next day it did hold air, but after a long hard ride neither chamber seemed to function properly. The small chamber (ib) would hold 0 pounds of pressure, while the larger one would only hold about 40 ibs of pressure.
Similar Products Used:
Fox Float R
Bike Setup:
2005 Specialized Enduro Expert
Bottom Line:
I got a great deal on the 05 enduro expert from specialized. Over all its a great bike, except when it comes to the rear shock. This is my second specialized bike and I am dissapointed that they would allow a bad shock which is know for problems to be sold on their bikes. So far my bike has spent more time in the shop then at my own house. Hopefully when I get the shock back it wont go to crap. If it does I hope that specialized will make it right and give me a different shock for my bike. But if not I will take by buisness somewhere else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sal
a Weekend Warrior
from California Date Reviewed: May 12, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Mt. 7, BC , Canada
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
mtbr
Strengths:
The shock makes my Jamis feel like it has 5 inches of travel. Super plush.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Fox float, Cane Creek Ad-5, 12
Bottom Line:
The best air shock I've owned, just bought another one for my now xcis 30lb. Bullit
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
francois allaire
a Weekend Warrior
from dolbeau-mistassini Date Reviewed: May 12, 2006
Favorite Trail:
les crans
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Very light, Good adjustable pedaling platform. Large main chamber makes it easy to fine tune for any rider's weight
Weaknesses:
Makes a bunch of noise on the rebound. Also the rebound knob seems to be garbage, it got may turns and you hardly notice any changes even with some turns. My shock is sprigny, maybe because of the rebound knob being so trash.
Similar Products Used:
manitou swinger, fox float
Bottom Line:
This is a pretty lightweight shock that can take a lot of abuse. Mine makes quite a lot of noise on the rebound and the rebound knob itself is pretty bad to use at all. If this shock came stock on your bike, fine and learn to tune it. If you're looking for an aftermarket shock, i would suggest a manitou swinger air.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
anthony
a Downhiller
from Stamford, CT Date Reviewed: April 2, 2006
Favorite Trail:
mt creek
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Super light, mine is tough (its taken 7-8ft drops, scared to push it any further tho)
Weaknesses:
rebound is shot to hell,
Bike Setup:
2005 Specialized Enduro Expert, Sram X-9 drivetrain, sun MTX front rim, Hollzfeller Stem, ZuZu pedals, Chunder Pro tires, e-thirteen drs.
Bottom Line:
For an air shock its tough. I've seen it in videos on an sx (not trail) version doing drops bigger than mine to tranny (i land somewhat flat). My rebound control is totally useless. Im riding a pogostick on wheels. im only running 115psi in the main chamber, and 110 in the rear pedaling champer and its still springy. The knob does nothing to change the feeling. Probably a defect, so ill be sending it back to get fixed once my Fox DHX comes in. I will be keeping this shock for XC use because its incredibly light.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Raul Hevia
a
from Ivins, UT Date Reviewed: March 15, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Slickrock Trail, Moab, UT
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Standard Equipment with Specialized Enduro
Strengths:
Simple adjusting, good performing shock, light.
Weaknesses:
Not strong enough, design flaws has made this shock to bust twice on 2 different shocks. Unreliable. Specialized is no longer offering this shock with their Enduros. They are offering the Fox DHX Air and are offering a discounted price for those who got the Enduro with a 5th Element if you want to replace it.
Similar Products Used:
plenty of them to list.
Bike Setup:
Enduro S Works, Fox RC 36 fork, xt, xtr components and WTB Weirwolf 2.3 super rocking tire!! Sun Rims, on and on...
Bottom Line:
Dissapointed on durability, although the shock performs well under extreme trail conditions. I ride mostly in St. George, UT area. Trails are rocky, technical and demanding. Bikes take a pounding here.
The first shock that came with the bike would not hold air for the rebound chamber the first day I bought the bike. The shop Red Rock Bicycles gave me a new one of a new bike to replace it. Those people rock! The replacement shock lasted 5 months of use 3 times/ week average for 5 months, and started leaking oil so its been sent to Progressive for repair. They are good about warranty, but, they are not particularly quick to get it done. They got the shock and said they would get to it within 9 days and either rebuild it or replace it. Add shipping time to it and you are out 2 1/2 to 3 weeks. A bit aggravating.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
cory W
a Downhiller
from Phoenix, AZ, US Date Reviewed: March 6, 2006
Favorite Trail:
National
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
light durable (in my case) good platform adjustments are awesome
Weaknesses:
I could not find any except maybe more ramp up at end of stroke
Bike Setup:
SC heckler
Bottom Line:
have literally beaten this for over a year and never serviced it and it rides like new. I was a stickler about air pressure but i still did 32 foot doubles and 2 10 foot drops with good landers. this along with countless DH courses and xc races and it still rides like new.
Guess i just got lucky
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
marco righetti
a Weekend Warrior
from bellshill scotland UK Date Reviewed: January 21, 2006
Favorite Trail:
red route glentress
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
alpine bikes glasgow
Strengths:
this is a follow up review from below :lightweight
Weaknesses:
it simply does not work for me!its failed 3 times! and thats after 3 attempts at sorting it. symptoms:it works great for months and then when you try to compress the shock it compresses and then takes hours to extend back, its obviousley an internal problem: perhaps it doesnt like my 220 lbs or the trek fuel set up??
Similar Products Used:
CK cloud-9 :never lets me down but its not stable platform tech and consequently bobs when riding on the flat.
Bike Setup:
trek top fuel
Bottom Line:
i wanted to like this shock as my friend at the lbs highly recommends it as he has not had problems with his but its just not for me so my second choice of spt shock is the dt swiss hvr200 which i will be getting soon hopefully!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom
a Racer
from colorado springs, CO USA Date Reviewed: January 20, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
came with intense frame
Strengths:
lightest shock i have ever felt, however thats its weakness!!!
Weaknesses:
within three weeks of average (not agressive) riding, it leaked oil, lost air, and had about 10% dead travel with a nice clanking sound!
Similar Products Used:
fox rc, manitou 3, and 4 way air, 6 way coil, fox rl air
Bike Setup:
5.5 vpp Great bike!
Bottom Line:
this shock came with the bike, and within a few weeks of normal riding, it had all the problems listed above. i work at a bike shop, so i called progressive, and sent the shock in immedtiatly. luckily they did warranty it, HOWEVER it took TWO (2) MONTHS to geth the shock back. no way in hell would i ever recomend this shock, even when this shock was brand new, it did not feel nearly as good as most other shocks. bad product, and horrible customer service.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Markham Ontario Canada Date Reviewed: January 9, 2006
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Just keeps on working without any problems & feels great
Weaknesses:
Uuuuuummmmmm................ huh, can't think of any
Bike Setup:
Santacruz Superlight
Bottom Line:
This thing just keeps going & going without any maintenance. I usually only check the air pressure every six months or so, even if it doesn't need it (and it never does). What can I say....... this thing is a great shock. I think that all of the bad reviews must be from a first production run. Oh yah, I also know a guy that has one of these on a Heckler (he beats the crap out of it) and has never had a problem in two years either.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Cross Country Rider
from Memphis, TN Date Reviewed: January 9, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Stanky Creek
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
ChainWheel in Little Rock, AR
Strengths:
Silky smooth response. Holds air - I don't even know how long it will hold air because I reset the pressure (125psi big chamber, 95psi little chamber) about once a week. I can tell you that I reset the pressure even though the shock feels just fine - so it is probably holing air longer than a week's time.
Weaknesses:
I was pretty worried about it due to the negative reviews... but they have been unfounded based on my experience.
Similar Products Used:
Fox RP3
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Blur (2005), Fox RL 80 fork, XTR/XT components, Egg Beaters, Easton carbon fiber bar
Bottom Line:
Like I said, I was worried about the negative reviews at first. I was buying the Blur frame and I wanted to upgrade the shock and I was going to go with the RP3 because of the negatives. The guys at the LBS (ChainWheel in Little Rock) are SUPER knowledgeable and they assured me that they had at least 50 recent 5th Elements out on the trails and have only had like two bad experiences - one from way over pressurizing the shock and one on a really heavy guy (I'm no lightweight myself at about 210lbs, and my shock seems happy enough). They had no vested interest in either shock, but they overwhelmingly recommended the 5th, and I am glad they did. I absolutely love it. Perfect match to the Blur VPP.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bikerdom
a Cross Country Rider
from Milton NH Date Reviewed: December 6, 2005
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$329.00
Purchased At:
Supergo OEM Frame
Strengths:
Nice platform dampening. Takes hits well. Set it and forget it. Light weight. Smooth. No noise. Never had any issues.
Weaknesses:
None after TWO years of use without any servicing, rebuilds, etc...
Similar Products Used:
Fox Float RL & Vanilla R & Float RL AVA & Vanilla RC, RockShox Sid & Bar, Manitou Swinger & Radium R, Cane Creek AD-10,
Bike Setup:
Weyless XP w/ 5inch travel with Progressive 5th Element Air Easton RAD tubing, XT Disc Brakes(4 piston) & XT Tubeless wheelset & XT spline crankset/BB & XT Fr. derailleur, Sram XO shifter & rear derailleur, WTB SST98 Ti rail saddle, RaceFace SyStem & XY Post,'05 Marzocchi All Mountain SL 130mm travel, FSA DH Pig Pro headset, LP composites DH5 Carbon bars, Time DH pedals Sram chain, Marzocchi intergrated fender
Bottom Line:
Perfect Single Pivot Shock!!! This was an OEM shock on a 2004 Supergo Weyless XP frame. I hadn't owned one(5th element) yet but had tested the 5th Element coil overs on some Santa Cruz bikes. First of all the Weyless XP kicks butt and between a great quality frame(which was a great surprise from Supergo)and rockin' shock I became a cycling NON-SNOB. Bikes, I've owned them all! If it's good, it's good and it doesn't matter what the label say's. Great shock! Read the manual and set it per the spec's. and you should be good to go. Mine felt perfect from the start. No sticky striction and Air holds perfectly in both chambers. I ride and have ridden this bike at least three times a week for two years splitting duties with my Rocky. Alls perfect. I might send the shock in over the winter for service because it's way over the recommended hours on it without service.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Barry
a Cross Country Rider
from Netherlands Date Reviewed: December 4, 2005
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Titus stock
Strengths:
just over 5000 km! No problems at all. What more can i say??
Weaknesses:
Took some time to set-up right. But have it perfect for lots of km's now!
I've read a lot of reviews here that say it's crap..I DO NOT AGREE! At this moment it is serving me for 5000km's and without any problems. What more could i want from a product? It's pricey, but it proved worth it. There's nothing else i can add to it, it just works! I often check the pressures but it only looses very little over a month or 2, and to me that is most acceptable since other riders i know need more air during th same period. Just thought i'd share my experience with the world...4 value chillies because it still is a lot of $$, but 5 overall 'cause it proved to be worth it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nick Martin
a Cross Country Rider
from UK Date Reviewed: November 28, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Everywhere!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Reputable UK Dealer
Strengths:
Nice enough at first...
Weaknesses:
Its TOTALLY unreliable... must be lousy build quality.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
2005 Specialized Enduro Expert
Bottom Line:
Have had the Enduro 2005 Expert for 3 - 4 months... great bike.
However, the shock is total utter crap! First one was replaced because the annodised coating wore off, second one replaced because the smaller IFP chamber collapsed, third one is now losing its protective annodised coating also... what an absolute joke this thing is!
Ive had all three replaced under warranty so far, less than a week each time. However after going through three of the things Im going to insist that my dealer provides me with a 2006 Enduro spec. Fox DHX Air 5.0 shock which will hopefully last more than a few weeks at a time!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joseph
a Weekend Warrior
from Big D Date Reviewed: November 9, 2005
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Weight, Looks, Adjustability
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Romic coil, Stratos Helix Coil, Stratos Strata Air, Cane creek AD-12, Fox Float, Fox RP3
Some reviews of this product cannot be trusted. Previous reviews have riders that screw up their shock and blame the company for their mistakes. Case in point, a rider knowingly and willingly "Tried to unscrew the rebound knob" to discover what the outer limit is, and when he did the knob came off, oil and air shot out causing his shock to fail. He then blamed 5th element and gave the shock a poor review. In the instructions it states that you are not supposed to unscrew the rebound knob, nor are you to dial it in to the point where it grinds against the shock. It states how many revoultions there should be and what the range of adjustment is and that to go past those points can cause damage, besides once you dial it past certain points the rebound settings will not change past the upper and lower limits.
On to another review where another rider screws up and puts the wrong air pressure in BOTH chambers of the shock. He mistakenly tries to use the SPV/Propedal/IFP valve as the MAIN SPRING, and inflates the main chamber to the SPV/Propedal/IFP setting. Ok, lets review. The SPV chamber is only for filtering out the unwanted bobbing/motion and its PSI is lower than main spring, it is only used to smooth out the ride and not activate the shock when you pedal. The main air spring supports the entire weight of you and the bike and any impact you come across. Now if you were to reverse the two air pressures, of course the shock will fail. The main spring is woefully underinflated and the SPV/Propedal/Whathaveyou chamber is overinflated. So the shock will fail because when you land, you go through the travel, bottom the damn thing out causing internal damage, blown seals, cracked shock bodies and frame damage. ANY SHOCK MANUFACTURER will tell you to properly inflate an air shock and that failure to do so will obviously cause it not to work right. That goes for Fox, Manitou, Rock Shox, Cane Creek, Stratos, and 5th Element. So if you don't know which valve is the main spring and which is the SPV valve, then ask your shop, another rider or better yet read the instructions! You can download them from progressive's website if you don't have them.
So now we have reviews that give 1 chili because the rider does something stupid. I hate to see this product given a bad review because I have used it without problems and can wholeheartedly recommend them. Make sure you have the right pressure in the right chamber, don't try and unscrew the rebound knob. And know that this is an XC shock, its not a downhill shock. So if you go try and huck off 10 ft drops and it blows out, that is your fault. 5th makes a downhill air shock and this ain't it. This is an XC shock and it performs like one. It filters out unwanted pedal motion, it turns single pivot frames that are a bobbing mess of energy sucking sponges into efficient cross country race rigs. It takes already efficient designs and turns them into the pantheon of energy efficiency they were meant to be. And it only takes small turns of the rebound knob to slow or speed up the rebound. A quarter turn and you will have gotten the rebound to your liking. Its not like other shocks where you have to do a full rotation or two to get it to change.
As far as what other reviews have to say about possible shock failure, I cannot say since mine have had no problems whatsoever. Yeah there are shocks that have blown out with proper use, non hucking, and non stupidity. But then again all air shocks, regardless of manufacturer, will blow out from time to time. You can see the reviews of all the air shocks from all the manufacturers and see that all of them have some percentage of failure. That is the nature of the component, using air as a spring because we would rather have a lightweight object than a super heavy but bombproof coil.
The shock gets 5 chilies for performance, and 3 chilies for value. Of course just about all air shocks are expensive, but then again you get what you pay for. Again, I have not had any leaks, no blown seals, it holds air great, and the adjustability really works and is very sensitive to small changes. So bottom line, this shock is not for dummies. It is for an experienced rider who knows it is for racing, trails and general use(not downhill, not hucking, not freeride). If you want to go that route with an air shock you have to get the 5th Element Gravity or Fox DHX Air to get a reliable free ride/downhill air shock.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Ringwood,Vic, Australia Date Reviewed: September 21, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Lysterfield Lake (2006 Commonwealth Games)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
WebCycles
Strengths:
I'll tell you once I have a chance to ride it..
Weaknesses:
Leaked air right out of the box - I recieved this shock on my new Intense Spider and it would not hold air for more than 1 hour & this was whilst I was building the frame up!!
I water tested the shock and the fault was a leak from around the valve stem as it enters the shock body. after a phone call to the local 5th element agent I was able to replace the o-ring that was cut during assembly and it's now holding air no problems.
Similar Products Used:
nil
Bike Setup:
Intense Spider, full XTR
Bottom Line:
Whilst I was disapointed that the shock was faulty, a 10 cent o-ring was the only problem (5.0mm I.D. x 1.0mm section). The valve stem un-screws from the shock body with a 3mm allen key which you can get to once you remove the valve. Makes you think that a general service may also be possible to DIY.
The australian agent for 5th Element could not be more helpful, even offering to send me the required part. From other USA reviews maybe the factory needs to take a leaf out of Neezy's book.
My ratings are based on nothing except what it looks like..
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nick Coyne
a Racer
from Cape Town, South Africa Date Reviewed: September 12, 2005
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Effective platform, plush over the bumps
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Fox Float RP3
Bike Setup:
Mountain Cycle Zen
Bottom Line:
Unbelievable performance - 4 inches of travel feels like 5 or more. Have thrown my bike off things I shouldn't have and this shock takes it all. Super-plush on the downhills, and minimal bob on the uphills.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
marco righetti
a Weekend Warrior
from bellshill,lanarkshire,Scotland UK Date Reviewed: September 4, 2005
Favorite Trail:
red route glentress forest
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
alpine bikes Glasgow UK
Strengths:
its light
Weaknesses:
i'm afraid this shock is a piece of crap! at the beginning of august when i pushed the saddle down the shock compressed and wouldnt rebound and there was oil leaking from the red knob, so the lbs sent it back to the service guy and he repaired it with some modifications....i've had it back for one month and its doing the exact same thing again except theres no oil leak....my CK cloud-9 never gave me problems....so this shock is going back and its staying back because i dont want it anymore!!! i want a reliable stable platform technology rear shock so i think i would like to try the dt swiss hvr 200 shock
Similar Products Used:
CK ad-5 and cloud-9
Bike Setup:
05 trek top fuel
Bottom Line:
i'm a man that doesnt swear ....so i wont start but i have to say that i'm REALLY dissapointed with this piece of crap!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ANDREW
a Weekend Warrior
from BATON ROUGE, LA. USA Date Reviewed: August 30, 2005
Favorite Trail:
COMITE RIVER AND HOOPER
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
adjustability, tunability, light, and very plush
Weaknesses:
poor instructions, delicate system, should come with the pump
Similar Products Used:
none, except an old crappy noleen
Bike Setup:
stock shock on 2005 ironhorse hollowpoint expert
Bottom Line:
This shock really is the pinnacle performer when compared with others. It is light and responsive, with a very good platform. The build quality is evident, but it was not designed for mere mortals. I am a 245lb rhino who loves this shock! Here is the real scoop!
When I bought the bike with this shock, I read many polar reviews. The gist is that it is a creamy shock for the five minutes it actually works. Despite the bad press, I rolled the dice. I'm very glad I did....so far.
Being forewarned by mtbr articles, I did not horse the rebound adjustment open, or over-torque the air pump to the valves. Nonetheless, the first ride was disastrous. After adjusting the top chamber to 80psi and the lower to 125psi, the shock collapsed completely after 30 minutes of riding. What an idiot, I thought. I was warned. I got off the bike and walked back to the truck dejected.
When I got home, I was thinking of all the explatives to use to describe this shock to you. I wanted to make sure you did not make my mistake and ignore sage advice. Then I thought to double check the air pressure one more time. Well, it was low. I used my special shock pump to adjust the two chambers again. Since then I have ridden it hard several times without failure or air loss!
I think the lesson here may be that the shock does not register accurate air pressure before or during break-in. The air pressure adjustments should be made carefully with a special shock pump. You must have a good grasp of guage false readings and valve pressure loss compensation. In other words, you really have to know what you are doing. Also, if your shock compresses completely, get off the bike! I would think damage would occur if you blow through the shock's normal range of travel.
Since the initial disaster, it has never let me down, or even lost a single pound of pressure. Awesome! Now you know, it's just like a woman. Sensitive and fickle at first, difficult to train properly, requiring competence and patience. But once set up properly, gives you hours of riding pleasure!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chuffie Monospud
a Weekend Warrior
from Bristol Date Reviewed: July 29, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Quantocks Killer Loop
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Can't really see any at present as it's only done about 5 miles of road riding. Mind it was very nice for those 5 miles
Weaknesses:
Leaks! I'm mean leaks won't stay up longer than a tired old dog (30 - 40 min ride) Maximum. Maybe i'm missing the point and now i'm to carry 2 pumps every ride....
Similar Products Used:
Fox rc36 "No Problems there then"!!!!
Bike Setup:
2005 Specialised Enduro Expert. Fox Rc36 front end with 5th Element rear shock
Bottom Line:
New Bike!! Full Sus!! Collect From Shop!! Get home read manual cover to cover 3 times make sure everything is just right. 30- 40 mins after setting of i'm depressed the shocks deflated............... Despite setting the shock up as per the instructions and being extremely careful as this is my first full sus bike getting used to the feeling of the forks & shock acting together i only managed a trip around the 'burbs then along a country lane to discover that it was frlat. Total ride of about 30-40mins. Is this the norm? Naaar don't think so. Have waited for some 10yrs for tech to advance prior to purchasing a full susser but now anm thinking i was right to be scepticle Bikes in for its free initial service inspection on Wednesday maybe this is just a Friday afternoon Shock and i've been very unlucky but judging by the other comments it appears not to be the case. Shame that as the promotion blurb had me con'd
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
won
a Downhiller
from mammoth lakes,ca Date Reviewed: July 28, 2005
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
very plush, almost feels like coil
Weaknesses:
durability
Similar Products Used:
fox, manitou
Bike Setup:
SC Heckler, XT parts, Fox Vanilla Fork
Bottom Line:
The 5th Element Air Shock worked very well while it lasted. But after 6 months of riding the shock blew out. I weigh around 140 lbs and ride trails mostly with some downhilling. A shock at this price should last for years, not months and be able to take 3-4 ft drops consistently. If you have a choice in the matter go with a fox shox or manitou on your next bike/upgrade.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Berkeley, CA Date Reviewed: July 24, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Camp Tamarancho
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Came With SC Blur
Strengths:
Good/comfortable balance between pedaling performance and shock absorption, setup is easy once you understand its design.
Weaknesses:
None So far
Similar Products Used:
Tested various frame/shock combos before I purchased my bike: Blur/5th Element Air Blur/Fox Ellsworth ID (I believe it was a 5th element coil over) Epic/Brain Various Giants (VT,Warp,NRS Trek Fuel (forgot type) Cannondale Scalpel & Jekyll (Fox I think) Rocky Mountain ETSX50 (FOX)
Bike Setup:
SC XL Blur/5th Element Air, Fox Float Fork, XT Dual Control Race Fact Next Cranks, Truvative Cockpit, Time Control Z pedals, Fisik seat, Gravity Dropper Seat post (killer!!)
Bottom Line:
Just posting with regards to reliability/durability issues. I have about 1200 miles on the shock/bike. I ride the various trails in the SF Bay Area with Camp Tamarancho, China Camp and Joaquin Miller Park being my favorites. All this time I have not had any problems with the shock and I am, in fact, quite pleased with it's performance. This is my first full suspension bike, but before riding I tried about Ten differen frame/shock combos including the Ellsworth Id and The Specialize Epic and IMHO the Blur/5th Element combo felt best. I understand others have had problems but as you are probably aware it is the problems which typically get the most attention. I hope this helps 5 Chilis for value since it came with my frame at no extra cost (Richard's Bicycles are great and outstanding customer service) 5 Chilis overall since I have no complaints about it's performance and so far no problems but I am a FS newbie so take that into consideration Mike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Grooters
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder Date Reviewed: July 7, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Deer Creek in Crested Butte
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$250.00
Strengths:
Straight forward adjustment, rides quite nice when it works, nice color
Weaknesses:
Leaks air with time
Similar Products Used:
Fox
Bike Setup:
2003 Blur
Bottom Line:
I am relatively easy on my gear, but do ride frequently. After two years, the shock leaks too bad to be used. Sent it back to Progressive a week ago, was told it would take two weeks to turn around, which seems reasonable.
Progressive took a monopoly on their shock repairs and do not allow your LBS to do anything. The shock must be shipped back to factory for them to make the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Marshall
a Weekend Warrior
from Steamboat Springs, CO. USA Date Reviewed: June 9, 2005
Favorite Trail:
All of them
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Orange Peel Bikes
Strengths:
When it works, it is plush and you hardly know it is there - the best compliment one can pay to suspension.
My third 5th Element just failed yesterday - I have two of these now - I have a good one hopefully, while the other is at Progressive being repaired.
1st failure - momentary hanging on downstroke and upstroke. 2nd failure - total collapse. 3rd failure - sticking on downstroke and upstroke with definite clunk associated with each stroke.
I cannot believe a company would put out such shoddy merchandise for such a high price. I do not recommend this shock to anyone.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kevin
a
from ventura Date Reviewed: May 18, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
I have ridden this shock for a year - 1 to 2 times a week and it has not blown. I have loved this shock up until.... see below.....
Weaknesses:
Decided to play with the rebound the other day. Thought I would find out where the adjustment was before I changed it. I started turning the knob such that you would be unscrewing it and expecting it to come up to a limit to its travel. To my surprise, it unscrewed all of the way and air and oil sprayed out. This should not have happened. I had my LBS send it in for repair - we shall see how long it takes.
Bottom Line:
Customer service will be the key on this one. I will let you know of my experience but if what I read on this forum is any indication- I am in for a long wait. Good thing I love my road bike too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto Date Reviewed: May 16, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Don
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Silent Sports
Strengths:
Works as advertised, with no bob (when IFP holds air).
Weaknesses:
I'm not a heavy guy (155lbs) and can't believe this shock blew so quickly. I always kept the shock covered with a lizard skin, cleaned it after every ride and yet it failed. I never had this problem with a fox float. When I had my shop send it back, it took close to four weeks to get it rebuilt.
Similar Products Used:
Fox float
Bike Setup:
Blur, XTR, XT
Bottom Line:
Product reliability is lacking. Further, they need to rethink their service strategy, as 4 weeks for a warranty repair is unacceptable.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott Gibbons
a Cross Country Rider
from South Lake Tahoe, CA USA Date Reviewed: May 9, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Centennial Trail in Carson City, NV until the snow melts!
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
QPB Prodeal
Strengths:
Plusher Ride when on the Blur, more so than the original Fox Float Shock
Weaknesses:
Have blown the IFP chamber twice. In lieu of replacing the shock when it failed a second time, Progressive re-built it again
Similar Products Used:
Fox Float
Bike Setup:
SC Blur, Full XTR, chi chis, etc.
Bottom Line:
The 5th Element Air is a plusher ride than the Fox Float. But I can say it is NOT better due to having to pump up both chambers every time before a ride to balance the pressures to get the best ride possible. I have also blown the shock twice, and while Progressive repaired it under warranty twice, I requested and would have hoped that when it failed the second time, Progressive would have provided a new shock. Hence I cannot recommend this shock due to my personal experience, especially as the purchase was originally intended as an "Upgrade".
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross Country Rider
from Steamboat Springs, CO. USA Date Reviewed: May 6, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Just about any I can ride today
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
When it worked, it was plush and you didn't even know it was there - the best compliment one can pay to suspension.
Weaknesses:
It failed after 4 rides - started clunking on the downstroke and the upstroke. Felt like I had a flat tire. Still held air but unacceptable as a rear shock.
What's worse, my first call to Progressive produced a CSR that tried to tell me it was normal, it was just stiction, and that it would go away after a few hundred hours of riding. I say, "Yeah, right!"
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shock, Fox, Push
Bike Setup:
2005 Moots Cinco, FSA K-Force Mega-Exo crankset, 2005 Fox Talas RLC, Mavic 819 Disc Rims, DT 2.0 spokes, XTR hubs, XT calipers, XTR rotors, Maxm MX-6 bars, King Headset, 959 pedals, XTR brake/shifters, XTR 11-34 cassette, WTB Team Stealth seat, Moots ti post, Thomson stem, Conti Vertical Pro 2.3 UST rubber, Salsa Suspension Skewers, Rohloff 9 speed stainless steel chain.
Bottom Line:
I am unimpressed with this product but not surprised - I read the reviews here before I purchased the frame, but it is the only rear shock currently spec'ed with the Cinco and I wanted that frame.
I am more unimpressed with Progressive's Customer Service - very disorganized, the right hand does not know what the left hand is doing type of thing - in other words - you get different answers every time you call from different people regarding length of time it will take to repair your shock; from 5 working days to 3 weeks, etc.
Since I do not want to be without my bike, I purchased another one from my LBS, Orange Peel Bikes (Brock is da' man!), to keep the wheels rolling and the shock pumping until the repair returns from Progressive.
When Moots produces new mounting hardware for other shock choices, I will buy a Fox RP3 and send it to PUSH (awesome company) for one of their sweet upgrades.
I also believe that Progressive looks at the mountain bike market as an easy cash cow, but they are more committed to the motorcycle suspension market - go to their website - all you see on the home page is all about motos - small link button on the right to go to mtb. products.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Gatos, CA Date Reviewed: May 4, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Kennedy
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Light weight. "Bob" resistent
Weaknesses:
The first shock blew on its maiden run. Frustrated beyond words, that my new $4.5K mountin bike failed on a 5 mile 750ft elevation gain fire road.
Similar Products Used:
Fox vanilla, Romic coil.
Bike Setup:
Blur, XT, Disc, Fox 100RLC
Bottom Line:
I weigh 215-220. Intial shock "blew" after one minor ride.(Grrrrr) LBS convinced me to stay with 5th Element. After 1 year of abuse, no furhter issues. Better bob reduction than Fox and Romic. I enjoy a long climb and the following descent. Responsive, plush, agile for an "all mountain" ride. Going up or down, the shock removes most bumps and bobs. Ride a Fox and then the 5th. You'll feel the difference. Glad I stayed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jeff burleigh
a Cross Country Rider
from Albany NY Date Reviewed: April 28, 2005
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
Came on brand new 2005 xtr blur
Strengths:
0ne ride rebound blew. I bought this bike brand new and the shock rebound blew after ten minutes on first ride
Weaknesses:
Quality and durability
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
xtr blur 2005
Bottom Line:
I can't say very much because I have not experienced the shock when it is working properly. The rebound blew on the first ride ON A BRAND NEW BIKE! I sent it in for warranty. Progressive seemed responsive on the phone. They received it 0n the 18th and it has been 10 days and still no shock. Called to confirm and they have not even looked at it yet. Told me they are too busy with other warranties and are working overtime to catch up. BOO HOO! I asked for an ETA. They might be able to ship it on Monday the 2nd. This means they will have it for 2 weeks if it ships. I will be replaceing this shock with a fox or manitou. The season is too short in the north east and i cannot let a defective item and overloaded customer service dictate when I can ride. I cannot give a good review because of durability and Customer service told me when I called for the RA# that It will take them three days to turn it around. NOT TRUE!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cory W
a
from Phoenix, AZ, US Date Reviewed: April 19, 2005
Favorite Trail:
National
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
slippery pig
Strengths:
Light, adjustable, acutally reliable, spv works amazingly well
Weaknesses:
absolutely NONE!!
Similar Products Used:
lots of fox air shocks
Bike Setup:
heckler, vanilla 125, 5th air, king headset, xtr stuff, avid sevens, race face evolve dh cranks
Bottom Line:
This shock is superior to any other air out there. i rode all the fox shocks, accept the rp3, and the 5th blows it out of the water. super smooth and when doing some super rocky and fast downhills, i feel like i am on an 8" freeride rig. spv works like a dream this shock absolutely kicks no problems whatsoever, except i cannot stop riding it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Agusti
a Cross Country Rider
from Andorra Date Reviewed: April 17, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Selenika
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
BikeComp, Madrid
Strengths:
Light, evolved, bearings, stable platform, plush.
Weaknesses:
None so far, unless you know how it works and how to use it correctly.
Similar Products Used:
Fox Float RL, RL High Volume, RP3
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Blur ( 2nd one ), Race Face deus crank and steering,race face next handle bar, Xtr, X0, Crossmax SL, Fisik Aliante, Egg´s triple Ti, Fox 100 rlt, Thomson, Hope Minis, Schwalbe Skinny Jimmy, 24,2 lbs.
Bottom Line:
Been trying and using Fox products so far on all previous bikes, including my first ´04 Blur. I read that that some improvements were done on the 5th and to avoid get stucked on the past and for some curiosity also I bought a 5th for my new ´05 Blur. In comparison with the older Blur eqpd. with fos RL High Volume, traction and handling uphill has really improved, no more bobbing also ( Yes Blur´s bob a litlle bit on flat sections with med. ring !! ) and the same butter, smooth, soft riding on downhill than Fox. Tuned with Santa Cruz rec. settings and worked perfect from the first day....but you have to understand how it works, IPF chamber ALWAYS reads 0 when you put the air pump, that´s because the very little amount of air fills the pump, first tune the IPF and latter the main chamber, air pump has to be screwed further than other shocks to be able to put pressure in, use the OEM pump not fox´s one ( no progressivity to fill/ unfill), for perfect rebound gently turn the rebound adjuster clockwise until it stops. This is the slowest rebound setting. Now turn the adjuster anti-clockwise 2 turns. From this point you can fine-tune your shock. If you feel the shock is too fast in rebound turn the adjuster clockwise, if it's too slow - anti-clockwise. Make small ½ turn adjustments and try again.
Until now always worked perfectly and way so better than Fox because of stable platform, traction, and equals on downhill. And of course if you want to build a light Blur ( or bike) this is the way to go.
Happy trails
If I could give him 10 chilis I would ;-))
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gregory Fierens
a Weekend Warrior
from Barcelona Date Reviewed: April 9, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Gosol - Berga
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Bike Comp (E)
Strengths:
Wouldn't know as it failed before my first ride !
Weaknesses:
How can a defectuous part get past Quality Control in Progessive AND Santa Cruz ?
Similar Products Used:
The stock one on my previous bike, can't remember the name.
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Heckler, FOX VANILLA RLC, ...
Bottom Line:
Progressive says you need to make sure the IFP pressure is between 75 and 125 psi. When I checked it after receiving my brand new bike, it was at 60 ... so I increased it to 100 psi. I then checked the Main chamber pressure (100 psi) and then wanted to check the preload ... 0 Checked the IFP again ... it was at 0 !! Impossible to add air ... seals must be defectuous. I cannot believe this happens before the first ride ! How do they check the parts in Progessive and Santa Cruz !
I am very dissappointed and it doesn't matter how Santa Cruz or Progessive react: a failure like this is unexcusable !
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Racer
from Nanaimo Date Reviewed: March 14, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
light, works exptremely well
Weaknesses:
orginal plastic eyelet bushings ( No charge replacement by factory), rebound damping adjustment screw system ( see below )
Similar Products Used:
fox
Bike Setup:
04 SC Blur
Bottom Line:
Had the shock for a year, without problems. Had questions when new about the "oil leakage", which turned out to be as the factory said - not a problem. Sent in to the regional rebuild depot for annual servicing, and started having problems - could not get the rebound set properly. took back to the LBS, and the mechanic bounced it twice, and turned the adjustement screw to increase rebound speed and it blew out. be damn careful with the adjustment screw - DO NOT adjust out too far. If rebound speed is slow as cold molasses and the screw seems like it is out more than normal - do not instictively thread out the knob to speed up rebound - you are on the verge of : 1) completely mashing the threads on the adjuster and/or 2) blowing the adjuster out, and it can't be put back without disassembling the shock
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a
from Japan Date Reviewed: March 12, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
LBS
Weaknesses:
Rebound screw popped out and oil gushed out.
Bike Setup:
Yeti 575
Bottom Line:
This shock came stock on my 575. I took it out for a few rides, the shock felt good with no problems. Then today while I was setting the rebound, the rebound adjuster screw popped out and oil came pouring out. I did not force the screw either. It did not feel stiff before it popped, it just popped out. I am not happy, and will be going back to my LBS soon. From what I've read below, some other people have had the same problem with the shock.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy Meyer
a Cross Country Rider
from Tucson, AZ Date Reviewed: March 3, 2005
Favorite Trail:
%0 Year - Upper Loop
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Light, anti-bob works OK, cushy in the rough stuff once you get a shock that works.
Weaknesses:
Leaks, sticks, machining tolerances questionable
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Blur (med), Fox 100R fork. XT, vee-brake, Thompson stem & post, Easton carbon riser bar, Velociraptor tires, Selle San Marco Aspide saddle
Bottom Line:
I am very sceptical of this shock. When I got it as OEM the action was very sticky (to the point where it made a strange "bang" noise when it "unstuck") - got a replacement. Now it apprears to be leaking an inordinate amount of oil - though it still seems to be working. My wife has the same bike, same set up, and hers leaked and the machining tolerance on the air valves ended up causing all the air to come out when we were topping off the the suspension. She's actually on her third shock!! Our LBS is saying we should trade these out for the Fox Float R.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Glenn
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle, WA Date Reviewed: February 25, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Bottom Line:
Follow up to my 12/3/04 posting. When I sent the shock in for the 3rd time I had requested a loaner ... first! After some disagreement they agreed to do that. No surprise the loaner had problems; rebound adjust didn't work but hey at least as a loaner it meant I could still ride. After three weeks I called to find out when I would receive my repaired shock back. "Loaner? We don't do loaners, that was a replacement shock."
Very long story short, they offered to send me a brand new replacement shock. Okay good, thank you. I asked them to send it UPS Next Day Air and I offered to give them my UPS account number. They said they would do that and they would cover the shipping costs. Hello did I get a wrong number ... is this really Progressive Suspension? It was like I was dealing with an entirely new company that suddenly valued customer service!
I've ridden the new shock hard for 2 months now and haven't had any problems. I've always loved the shock when it worked properly. If only the company had been more responsive and did what it said it would when it said it would. I'm optimistic about having a working shock now, and maybe the company has realized the importance of customer service. However, I was burned too badly so I still won't buy anthing from them until I hear good reviews for a year or two.
Caveat emptor!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben Zinga
a Racer
from Austin, TX, USA Date Reviewed: February 19, 2005
Favorite Trail:
City Park Motocross
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Absolutely no bob!! Superlight.
Weaknesses:
Bushing on lower pivot gave out on me after about a year of good use, sent it in to progressive, took a while (three-four weeks), but I'm back in business.
Similar Products Used:
Fox AVA, Float, Swiss
Bike Setup:
Haro Werks (Intense Tracer), 5th element, Fox TALAS, Martas, Sram XO, American Classics laced to 717s disc, Larsen TTs, Stans tubeless, Thompson seatpost and stem, monkeylight bars, XT cranks
Bottom Line:
Works better than any rear shock I have ever used. New Fox ProPedal RP3 does not compare. If you can get past the finicky things like air pressure in the IFP chamber and wear and tear (my bushing) don't settle for anything less.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Darrin
a Cross Country Rider
from Arizona Date Reviewed: January 29, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$325.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Adjustable with airpump, light weight, quality parts and spherical eyelet bearings that pivot and reduce side loading.
Weaknesses:
None so far...
Similar Products Used:
Fox Float
Bike Setup:
Superlight
Bottom Line:
I remember reading articles when the first Fox Float shocks came out. Read the articles on here MTBR.com and many people were unhappy with leaking air and seals! I bought one anyhow and didn’t have a problem. Comparing a 2003 Fox Float to the 5th Element isn’t exactly fair because the spherical eyelet bearings are much nicer than the Floats rigid alloy mounts which added a lot of side load to the shock.
After about a year Fox got their act together and started building a better Float shocks. My experience with the 5th Element is no different than with my Fox Float.
I didn't think switching to the 5th Element was going to make much of a difference. WRONG...the 5th Element feels much smoother and when it impacts hard edged rocks similar to stairs the blow off kicks in and gives the bike less kickback in the pedals. I have a single pivot bike and it doesn't feel like a single pivot with the 5th Element.
The handling it greatly enhanced and brake jack is much reduced. Today I rode a pretty rutted and rain-washed trail. Going into corners, which have woops, and ruts while braking was MUCH smoother and controlled.
There's been quite a few MTB articles where old frame designs have been retrofitted with newer SPV style forks and shocks which breathed new life into old workhorse frame designs. I can attest to this now with first hand experience.
I was told by Progressive they are continually looking for ways to enhance the 5th Element Air. Many quality changes have been made since the first units shipped like better o-rings and air valves. I can't wait to get a Freeride bike because I want it equipped with a 5th Element!!!
It’s rare to get more than you expected and after reading some of the reviews on here I was a little worried. I even talked to quite a few MTB owners that had the 5th Element Air's. Some had problems when they were first released but like many new designs bugs get worked out. I believe this is a quality product and it definitely enhanced my MTB ride! Feels like a new bike again…
Last note…I tried a set of Formula B4 Pro brakes, which didn’t get rated very well on here. They are VERY light weight and perfect for XC racing if you weigh less than 180lbs. A well known MTB mag published an article testing brakes and why they made a comment bashing the Formula’s is beyond me…it stated one Sumo 200+ lbs rider said the brakes were too weak for all mountain riding…so the Fuc what!!! Magura Marta’s are not made for Clydesdale riders and either are the Formula B4 Pro’s. The Formula’s have better modulation then my Hayes Mag Plus brakes and for my weight braking power is excellent.
Formula and Progressive deserve a second look and you’ll see there new products have all the features of the competition. I hope competition stays because FOX is way too pricey.
I’m glad I used common sense and tried these products because they really enhanced my MTB ride!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Barbara Date Reviewed: January 28, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Epics
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Light weight, easy to tune, quality mounting kit.
Weaknesses:
Non so far...
Similar Products Used:
Fox Float RL, Fox Vanilla.
Bike Setup:
Superlight custom with Rockshox Reba Race Air Pop-Loc.
Bottom Line:
I wasn't sure I needed the 5th element after adding the Reba. My bike handling dramatically changed after adding the fork and my Fox Float REAllY complemented the Reba. But I got a deal on the 5th and I'm not sorry. The performance gain was well worth it. The 5th does have a different ramp rate and like many state here feels like you added an extra inch of travel. The 5th has an adustable blow off rate by adding different pressure...simple and easy to do. Like many here I run my negative pressure at 80-90psi and my main air at 125-130 psi. I weight 177 lbs and this gives me a nice stable platform where I can crank out of the saddle with only slight motion...my float took much higher pressure to get his effect. If I want a better race setup for out of the saddle I run higher in the negative...90 lbs.
My bike feels like a new different bike again...
One last note...I had a cosmetic blem on my shock and Rosana took care of it at Progressive without problem. Great customer service and shock was back to me with 3-days!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JD Ortega
a Racer
from Valencia Venezuela Date Reviewed: January 21, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Los Nevados, Merida
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Wind Center CCS
Strengths:
Easy set up Works as advertised Ultra light
Weaknesses:
Rebound knob doesn't have the useful "cliks" that help you know exactly where you are
Similar Products Used:
Fox Float, Centurion LRS, Manitou Swinger 3 way
Bike Setup:
Blur Anodized 05. F100X, Race Face Deus cranks, Crank Bros. SL pedals, Answer Protaper Carbon Bar, XT 755 Hidro Disc Brakes, XT 760 11-32 Cassette, XTR fron & Rear D, XT shifters, Thomson Stem & Seatpost, Selle Success saddle, Xt F & R Hubs, DT Comp. Spokes, Mavic 317d rims. Michelin Comp S tires.
Bottom Line:
Both the Blur and the 5th. work in a linear, stable travel. You don't feel bottoning ever. The rear wheel is superglued to the trail. Super stable in low and fast speeds. The Blur eliminates the pedal feeding and the 5th takes off unwanted compression (as standing on the pedals). It's amazing how stiff you feel the rear of the bike until you hit something, then the supernatural feeling of the bike taking care of the bump appears. I'm 165 and My setup is IFP 100psi, Main chamber 120 psi.
I was afraid at the begginig because the bads reviews the 5th took. I called my LBS and write to Santa Cruz and they both said the new 5ths have the problems resolved. That appear to be the case. I ride hard. I do nasty trails, 45Deg. descents and some 2-3 feet jumps. Not free rinding, all mountain. No oil, no air loosing, nothing. Lets see how the 5th holds in the long term
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
William Moritz
a Racer
from Houston, Texas U.S.A. Date Reviewed: January 18, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Ruston La.
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Titus
Strengths:
Works as advertised non-bob suspension
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Specialized s-works epic with the fox shock
Bike Setup:
2003 Titus Racer X
Bottom Line:
I’ve had this shock on my Titus since I purchased it in 2003 and ride my bike hard other than checking the air on a regular basis the shock works as advertised. I guess I got a good one from the factory I’ll probably have the progressive 5th element tech guy give it a rebuild / maintenance at the upcoming NORBA race here in Texas other than that it’s preformed flawless. I don’t know what these other folks are doing to theirs to cause them so much trouble
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Monterey CA Date Reviewed: January 2, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Sea Otter
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Phat Tire
Strengths:
Really Can'T say yet
Weaknesses:
Came from Shop broken. Rattled and clunked first ride. got a loner from bike shop and sent it to 5th element. Sent back with a note that internal piston was unscrewed???? Now rebound dampening doesn't work. No dampening... Zero Back to 5th element. Wonder how long I can keep the loaner???
Bike Setup:
Blur with XT
Bottom Line:
I actually paid money to upgrade to the 5th Element.... I hear the new Fox Float is the way to go.... Lighter and works.....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Riaan van Niekerk
a Cross Country Rider
from South Africa Date Reviewed: December 31, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Knysna
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Very smooth, light and holds air (even the IFP chamber!)
Weaknesses:
Rebound adjustment seem to be non-existant (worked for about 1 month), spills grease/oil/?? all over the seat and down tube.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
SC Blur, integrated XT kit
Bottom Line:
If I look at the reviews it seems as if I am one of a lucky few. Problem however is that you keep agonising on just when your luck is going to run out.
The rebound is not that serious, although performance is reduced.
The oil leakage (according to the Progressive site its grease used during the instalation process) is just messy. Although I think the loss of rebound and the leaking oil is somehow connected.
Bottom line - don't buy this shock if you have a choice, it seems (from reading reviews and checking the shocks of my mates) that their are more reliable options available.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug
a
from Calabasas Date Reviewed: December 27, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Light weight, good perfomance in all conditions.
Weaknesses:
Unreliable, faulty seals
Bike Setup:
03 Santa Cruz Blur w/Manitou Minute 2 fork, full XTR
Bottom Line:
This shock is not ready for prime time. I used this shock for over a year, and when it worked, it worked great, notwithstanding the fact I had to check the pressure in the IFP chamber before each ride. The IFP chamber is very small and can loose pressure easily. The seals in the shock are bunk. After about 9 months of regular riding the shock completely failed and I sent it back to Progressive. To their credit, they were very responsive and turned around the shock quickly. It worked fine for about 3 months after I got it back and then the seals blew again. At this point I am going to replace the shock with a Manitou Swinger 3 way. If you are a serious rider, I recommend staying away from this product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dirty Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Markham Ont. Canada Date Reviewed: December 24, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Came on the frame
Strengths:
It just keeps working without trouble, and it doesn't weigh very much.
Weaknesses:
None that I can find. Well maybe it could have separate compression and rebound knobs.
Similar Products Used:
None, I have always riden a hardtail before (S-Works).
Bike Setup:
Santacruz Superlight, SID, XTR, Hugi & 517's (it's built to race with and go fast)
Bottom Line:
This thing has been nothing but great. In ten months I have only put air in it once, and that is only because I had hit the rebound knob with a water bottle and thought that the shock had lost air (it was compressing and coming back verry slowly). I guess that I must have gotten a good one. Too bad about you people that got duds.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kevin
a
from oakland. ca., u.s. Date Reviewed: December 24, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
$$$$$
Strengths:
Rocking great bike. Smooth, reliable and a blast to ride both on fire roads and rock fields. Maybe a little slow uphill, though not by much, but watch out below on the descents where it screams. Endless fun. The 5th element shock is flawless - not one problem, yet.
Weaknesses:
Plug the frame hole that allows small rocks to rattle around the lower tubes.
Similar Products Used:
Klein Pulse II, pre-trek-drek. Santa Cruz pre-superlight single pivot.
Bike Setup:
5th element, fox rl, xtr
Bottom Line:
Clearly advances double boiinger technology. The perfect all around bike for all activities and terrain. While not specific to one type of riding, the daily ride will not let you down. If your a racerboy or a big-bump hitter this may not be your ride. But if your looking for a bike that is responsive and becomes invisible as you rush along the trails, this is it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Duane
a Cross Country Rider
from Huntington, NY, USA Date Reviewed: December 4, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Frenchies Cycles
Strengths:
Haven't gotten to use it enough to tell you. I'm hoping that when I finally get it back, I won't be disappointed!
Weaknesses:
I used the shock for about 6 rides before it failed. I had been trying to get it setup just so for the trails I ride here on Long Island. I had it tuned in pretty well when I took it up to Killington for some downhilling and single track. The second day at Killington, the damping quit working and oil oozed out of it. That was the end of that day....
Similar Products Used:
My fuel 90 felt like a hard-tail compared to the Yeti, but I never had a problem with the shock. I've also got a Iron Horse SGS, that weighs a ton but rides super plushly, and again no issues.
Bike Setup:
Yeti 575 Disc
Bottom Line:
I barely had the time to get it dialed-in before it broke. It's been at the shop now for almost 5 weeks and the shock still isn't back!! The shop says they've been calling weekly to see when they could expect the shock back and aren't getting any straight answers.
I love my 575, but it's been in the shop longer than I've had it to ride!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Glenn
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle, WA Date Reviewed: December 3, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
oem on SC Blur
Strengths:
Like others have said, it works great ... when it works.
Weaknesses:
Reliability and customer service
Similar Products Used:
Cane Creek
Bike Setup:
SC Blur w/ TALAS fork
Bottom Line:
In 8 months the shock has been back to "Regressive Suspension" for warranty repair 3 times. Total time lost about 2 months. That's 25% down-time, if my company had that kind of record I'd be looking for a new job.
Of course I called a lot when the shock was at Regressive, and got lots of interesting stories: we don't have it yet (well UPS says you do and here's the name of the person that signed for it), oh there it is we just haven't logged it in yet, we're short handed because someone just quit (I heard that story twice about 3 months apart, some personnel problems maybe?), it is shipping today (then shipped 4 days later). It was only after I talked to the sales manager and he got involved that they actually got it done.
Oh yeah, when I had problems the third time I had to fight with them to get a loaner sent out first. Like I'm going to accept more time off the bike!
The best part is that I've become the worst kind of customer for a company, a vocal and dissatisfied one. I talk to anyone I see with a 5th Element Air and mostly I hear complaints. I've met two others that were having a problem with their shocks and didn't even know it! Now they are going to their LBS to get it sent back to Progressive. Good luck.
Bottom line is that it will be out of warranty in a few more months and I wouldn't buy another shock from them unless they were the only manufacturer out there. Even then I would think about going to a hard tail!
If you have a 5th Element that is reliable then you're one of the lucky ones. Say thank you to the higher powers and cross your fingers.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rich
a Cross Country Rider
from Nevada City, Ca Date Reviewed: November 19, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Grouse Ridge/Spaulding Lake
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Like almost everyone says, works great when it works and it's as light as you can get.
Weaknesses:
Reliability and customer service. Both suck and that's a devastating duo.
Similar Products Used:
Fox Vanilla RC
Bike Setup:
'04 Santa Cruz Blur X Disc
Bottom Line:
My new Blur has been out of service five out of the past eight weeks thanks to this shock failing on the fith ride I took it on. I hadn't even got the bike fit settled in and the suspension tuned to the sweet spot yet.When it worked, I easily rode up and over stuff that used to cause me to walk. Is that the VPP design of the Blur, or the shock? To be fair let's just say a little of both( yes that is faint praise for the shock and that's all it's gonna get ). Proir to failure, I had turned the rebound adjustment knob to the "stops" at either end of it's range while counting the number of turns it took to do so.(this one has no clicks to count like fox ). I divided the resulting number by two and turned it back so I could find the approximate mid-range for the rebound setting. I was very careful not to overturn the adjustment knob as the owners manual advised...Be warned, there are no hard "stops" at the end of the range on the rebound adjustment knob. Instead their are vague, fuzzy stops you have to be a safe cracker to feel. On my next "tune-up" test ride the red knob popped off and oil from the main air chamber came spoogeing out. Sent it back to Progressive for warranty repair and they took a month to turn it around. I always talked to very nice people in service, but it still took way to long to get it back. I got it back just in time to ride this weekend, but I'm missing the frame adapters that fit it to my Blur's shock mounts. I sent them in with the shock, they kept 'em and sent my shock back naked. So I'm still without my Blur. They refused to expedite the shipping on the frame adapters so I won't get them 'till next week sometime.Another weekend without the Blur. Am having a hard time reaching keyboard due to my ever-expanding gut! I am giving this product a low review because it failed easily under normal use conditions and repair took way too long, customer service, 'though friendly, was ultimately unhelpful.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ANDREW
a Cross Country Rider
from Winston-Salem NC Date Reviewed: November 18, 2004
Favorite Trail:
tsali/pisgah area
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
works great, turns a 4' travel bike into a hardtail on sprints and climbs
Weaknesses:
my shock blew up after 2 months of riding, and its been with them for repair for about 3 weeks now. Also wierd main chamber valve, doesnt register on shock pumps
Similar Products Used:
fox
Bike Setup:
blur, all mtn style
Bottom Line:
I loved the damn thing, it was smooth, sexy, worked like a dream...until it stopped holding air. If you get a shock that will last more than a few months then you'll be great, unfortunately i wasnt one of those people.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bryan Spee
a Weekend Warrior
from NYC Date Reviewed: November 2, 2004
Favorite Trail:
NYC Streets
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Colorado Cyclist
Strengths:
Looks good
Weaknesses:
Does'nt work- I bought a Santa Cruz Blur 5 days ago and took the bike to Central Park and sure enough the shock broke on me- Stopped rebounding- I called Progressive and they were willing to look at it but it would take 3 weeks!, I just got the bike and cant ride it. THEY NEED TO RECALL THE SHOCK ASAP. And Santa Cruz should drop them. I am 125 Lbs and this should not happen to a shock ridden once in Manhattan.
Bike Setup:
Blur Full XTR
Bottom Line:
Look into getting a different shock when buying a bike w/ this shock or dont buy the bike because you will have problems
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:
6 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Strengths:
LOOKS, WEIGHT
Weaknesses:
IT JUST BLOWS OFF --> from the valves to the seals....
Similar Products Used:
Fox RP3, Manitou 3 & 4 way swingers
Bike Setup:
Intense EVP 5.5
Bottom Line:
THIS IS THE 3RD 5th Air I get on my bike - replaced by the Intense rep here in Manila 3x - due to F*#%*&*% blow-off's !!!! LOUSY - REALLY LOUSY!! PWEH!!
LIKE I SAID IN MY OTHER REVIEW (4/25/04 - below) THIS REAR AIR SHOCK IS ALL HYPE!!! DO NOT BE FOOLED BY THE NAME "5TH ELEMENT PROGRESSIVE" Air shock. IT IS BY FAR THE WORST SHOCK ANYONE CAN BE USING OR EVEN BUY!! Bring out the BLOW-TORCHES!!!
Switch to the FOX FLOAT RP3. You cant go wrong!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Darrel
a Cross Country Rider
from Pacific Beach, CA Date Reviewed: September 24, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Efficient pedaling action, light, and reliable.
Weaknesses:
Adjustability if you want to knit pick.
Similar Products Used:
non SPV
Bike Setup:
Sant Cruz Superlight-dialed.
Bottom Line:
The 5th Element didn't completely win me over at first. It took a little bit before I had it totally dialed in but when I did I was stoked. Like a hardtail on the climbs and gives just enough suspension in the rocks/downhill. I am 6'2" 205 lbs. so I wouldn't say I'm the easiest on a shock especially since I ride hard in the saddle alot. I haven't really tested the durablility to the fullest though. I've ridden the shock on about 15 20-mile rides through intermediate terrain + some urban assault missions (which can be as hard as anything sometimes) but I'm definately happy with the way it allows my bike to perform like a mule on the climbs and accelerate in the flats.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony Lucchesi
a
from Bayside California Date Reviewed: September 16, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Revolution Bicycle
Strengths:
Work(ed) great. Very light.
Weaknesses:
Quit working. Extremely poor customer service. I will be without my shock for the fourth weekend in a row, despite requesting a "quick turn around" when my shock got sent in for warrantee repair of a blown seal. We called them today and they said "...oh yeah, I just got it, its' been sitting in receiving for two weeks..." This despite multiple inquiries from the shop where I purchased the bike/shock. This is no fault of my local shop; they are enarly as frustrated as I am. Progressive has a problem with this shock and thinks the answer is to blow off their customers...
Similar Products Used:
Fox coil shock
Bike Setup:
Blur, with Marathon SL, basic cross country setup
Bottom Line:
Progressive needs to treat their customers with some respect. If they couldn't fix my shock in a month, they should have said so. This alone would keep me from buying/recomending one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Christie
a Cross Country Rider
from Flagstaff, AZ Date Reviewed: September 11, 2004
Favorite Trail:
gooseberry mesa
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
with bike
Strengths:
great feel on rocky descents, firm but plush
Weaknesses:
Hard to dial in
Bike Setup:
Blur
Bottom Line:
I started having problems with this shock before my warranty was up, but procrastinated long enough to pass it up. When the shock was finally totally shot, I wrote to Progressive and they promptly replied, sent out a loaner shock for me to use, and are going to (hopefully) fix mine for much less $$ than a new shock would cost. I loved the shock when it was working, once I got it dialed in (which took quite a bit of trial and error). I was worried about Progressive customer service after reading all of theprevious posts, but I have had great response so far. I gave it 3 chilis for value cause it conked out, but 5 chilis for performance when it's working and for great customer service when it's not.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
scared one
a Weekend Warrior
from barrie, ontario, canada Date Reviewed: August 25, 2004
Very poor reliability. Rotten service from Progressive (even as bad as Intense!).
Similar Products Used:
Manitou SPV (good product)
Bike Setup:
04 SC Superlight
Bottom Line:
Nice piece of work while it works. It's light and expensive but not durable. Which you could maybe tolerate it with low downtime. Shock failed in less than one month. Six weeks and still waiting, ya we shipped it, blah, blah. Poor reliability, seems to be the word on this hunk of junk. Trying to get LBS to change it to Fox AVA.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Williamson Pokey
a Cross Country Rider
from Davie, FL, USA Date Reviewed: August 25, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Markham/local Reddick/road trip
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Atlantic Bicycles, Margate FL
Strengths:
Tracks incredibly well over rough level ground at speed, climbs like it's stuck on the terrain, descends sticky also. Actually, "sticky" is the best overall description. No "stink bug" effect on downhill stops.
Weaknesses:
Had to send it in for service with 11 months of 2-3 x's weekly use.
Similar Products Used:
Fox vanilla
Bike Setup:
Blur, XT/XTR rapidfire drive, Fox Talus RLC, Magura Marta discs and wheel set, C. King headset, Easton bar, stem and post, IRC Serac, shock at 70IFP, 120 main (165 lb.rider)
Bottom Line:
This shock works really well with the Blur frame and Talus shock. Ride mostly trails with multiple smaller (1-2 ft) drop-offs, stairsteps, jumps with no problem. Havent encountered a trail that brought out handling problems. The shock was fine until last week when it developed movement on the shaft before the air chambers would engage. Contacted Progressive Suspensions, live person, sent out overnight air on Monday, returned express on Friday AM. Courteous staff, quick turn-around, great shock. Maybe all the clean livin?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City, UT Date Reviewed: August 23, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Gooseberry Mesa
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Wrench Science
Strengths:
Unbelievably light. Zero bob while seated. Never bottoms out. Plush when you want it to be plush, stiff when you want it to be stiff. Very tune-able. Good (not stellar) customer service. Since warranty repair (5 months consistent riding) shock has been dead-on reliable.
Weaknesses:
Initially failed after a couple of rides. Would not rebound.
I told myself I'd wait a full season before reviewing this shock, and I'm almost there. I'm on the fence between a 4 and a 5 overall rating. Call it a 4.5. The last 5 months have been a solid 5, but I did have problems initially. I bought this shock as part of a new spec'd-to-order bike. After a few rides, I encountered the O-ring problem mentioned earlier, and shock wouldn't rebound. Customer service was very good, though turnaround wasn't quite as fast as I was told initially. However everyone at Progressive was courteous and responsive, and I had the shock back in about 2.5 weeks. Since then, the shock has been like a dream. Never loses air, never bottoms out. Never bobs while seated, though easily bobs when standing. (I'm not willing to ride with IFP pressure high enough to eliminate standing-bobbing). I weigh 175 lbs, and set the main chamber to about 105 - 110 psi, and the IFP chamber to 80 -90 psi. I'm very happy with the purchase, and would do it over again. BTW, when you hold this shock in your hand, it's so light as to be a little unreal...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nature Boy
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto Date Reviewed: August 18, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Don
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Silent Sports
Strengths:
Works as advertised. I'm now a lot faster on single track.
Weaknesses:
None. I haven't had any problems with this shock.
Similar Products Used:
Fox air
Bike Setup:
Blur, XTR, XT, Fox RLC
Bottom Line:
I chose to ignore the negative reviews and selected this with my SC Blur. Followed the recommended settings from SC website and it's been perfect since.
I've check the shock a few times (thinking I'd need to add air) and thus far it's been pretty close to perfect.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dwight D
a Cross Country Rider
from Castle Rock, CO 80108 Date Reviewed: August 13, 2004
Favorite Trail:
buffalo creek area
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
phattire.com
Strengths:
reacts for every kind of terrain....stiffens up climbs, and then gets plush on the way down.
Weaknesses:
takes a little time to get it where you want it. Had trouble with it when I first got it
Similar Products Used:
fox float RL
Bike Setup:
2004 SC Blur, XT disc, fox float 100 rlc fork....
Bottom Line:
I will admit that when I got my blur, I was a little apprehensive, because I had recieved it with a 5th element, and not the fox I requested, but the upgrade was free. At first, I couldn't even get the air into either of the chambers. I called Progressive, and they admitted (this is 2004 model) that they had had problems with the shraeder valve cores on a bunch of the shocks. They apologized and recommended that I could either get a new one shipped to me, or simply replace the cores on my own (without voiding any warranty). I chose the latter, and since replacing the cores, the bike has been a dream, taking on terrain I could not before.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
davide valentini
a Cross Country Rider
from italy Date Reviewed: August 11, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
lightweight, anti bob feature really works
Weaknesses:
reliability, rebound dial not so sensible, difficoult to set up
Similar Products Used:
fox brain, fox ava
Bike Setup:
heckler, full xtr, pace rc 40 fork, full easton carbon; Ipaid 150 dollars upgrade to Santa cruz over a Fox AVA wich works better. I Think Santa C. should introduce a new Shock in his catalogue only after a serious testing period
Bottom Line:
original shock was used only for one day, after a 10 minutes ride it progressively went trough the travel and slowly rebounded in two or three minutes only once dismounted from the saddle. Then dsb, italian distributor changed this for a new shock, wich I've found difficoult to set at the right pressure. Also setting the Ipt pressure is nearly impossible, it holds so few air; this is a big issue, considering how drastically this affects the ride. (too much air in the Ipt and an Heckler rides like an hardtail also downhill). Not everybody knows that if you ride the shock with a lower than 70 psi in the Ipt air will mess with oil and the shock should be professionally serviced. Definitely a very difficoult product to own, i've never had a singol problem with Fox brain wich worked flowlessly for one year, perfectly holds air, the rebound dial is much more sensitble and is very easy to set up. Santa Cruz should do a serious testing of what they put on their bikes (especially if they ask 160 dollars upgrade).Next time I'll go with Specialized, better paintjob, better decals, better shock, better ride with fsr
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from Carlsbad, Ca. Date Reviewed: August 1, 2004
Favorite Trail:
San Juan Trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Bicycle Warehouse
Strengths:
Hardtail like while climbing yet still active over bumpy terrain. Plush downhill. Very sensitive to air pressure changes/ adjustments.
Weaknesses:
None, yet.
Similar Products Used:
Fox float RL
Bike Setup:
Blur with Fox RLC 100
Bottom Line:
I've ridden my bike two to three times a week for the past six months, even took it to Moab for a week and havn't had a single problem. Set air pressures according to S.C. recommendations. I check the air pressure every time I ride and it's always the same, no leaks. I've got my fingers crossed it lasts because there sure are a lot of bad reviews for this shock. Based on my experience with this shock I feel comfortable recommending it. Just thought I'd throw in my two cents worth.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim Franken
a Cross Country Rider
from Glen Burnie, MD, USA Date Reviewed: July 28, 2004
Favorite Trail:
All
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
None
Weaknesses:
Customer Service! The shock keeps breaking. I have owned it for months and have only gotten one month of riding on it.
Similar Products Used:
Fox and Manitou
Bike Setup:
Heckler
Bottom Line:
Stay away from this thing! The whole package stinks. And customer service is horrible!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Don
a Cross Country Rider
from Clarksville, In Date Reviewed: July 23, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Amazing performance. Takes a while to dial in.
Weaknesses:
Unreliable
Similar Products Used:
Fox
Bike Setup:
Blur with XTR, F100X fork.
Bottom Line:
Once I got the shock set up properly, the ride it gave was outstanding. I hate to say it, but as far as I'm concerned, this is a race shock only. The shock was returned once and they replaced the shock with a new shock, however it contained the old nylon bushings. Unlike Fox, the individuals at Progressive have been pleasant to deal with, and they agreed to send a new set of bushings about four weeks ago which I haven't received yet. I weigh 220+ lbs and ride east coast 3 to 5 times a week until I injured myself recently. Both shocks held air well but developed a clunking sensation/noise when the bushings deteriorated. Two Hecklers which were serviced by my LBS experienced similar problems. The shock is very sensitive to temperature changes secondary to the small volume in one of the chambers, but I'm fanatical about checking the air pressures of my bike secondary to my weight. Perhaps a Heckler with coil springs would be a better choice, however the no-bob technology with low weight is simply amazing. I am currently on a waiting list for the Manitou 3-way only because with such a expensive bike, coupled with the rear shock being such a bike specific part with a long turn around for repair, I think forking up 350 dollars for insurance is reasonable, since I ride often.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MICHAEL LAPKA
a Cross Country Rider
from BEL AIR, MARYLAND Date Reviewed: July 12, 2004
Favorite Trail:
CRACK HEAD BOB
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
BLACK CAT BICYCLES
Strengths:
SUCKS UP ROUGH STUFF NICELY, CLIMBS GREAT, STIFFENS UNDER POWER YET REMAIN ACTICE TO BUMP FORCES, AND VERY LIGHT.
Weaknesses:
CAN BE TRICKY TO SET UP, REQUIRED MANY RIDES TO DIAL IN
Similar Products Used:
FOX FLOAT RL, FOX PRO PEDAL, ANSWER SWINGER
Bike Setup:
SANTA CRUZ SUPERLIGHT, XTR WITH XT DISC BRAKES, MARZOCCHI MXR COPM W/ ETA
Bottom Line:
ONCE YOU GET THE SHOCK SET UP IT ROCKS!, I CAN SEE WHY SOME PEOPLE HAVE TROUBLE SETTING IT UP. NO LEAKS OF AIR OR OIL. BECAUSE OF LOW PSI GETTING A PRESSURE READING IS DIFFICULT, YOU JUST HAVE TO TRUST YOU SHOCK PUMP. SPEAKING OF PUMPS, THE ONE THAT COMES WITH THE SHOCK IS VERY NICE. I WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS PRODUCT TO ANYONE LOOKING FOR A LIGHTWEIGHT CROSS-COUNTRY SHOCK THAT TAKES HILLS BETTER THEN A HARDTAIL AND CAN EVEN HANDLE SMALL DROPS WITH EASE.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Travis
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle, WA USA Date Reviewed: June 29, 2004
Favorite Trail:
bushwack
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
seattle
Strengths:
?????????
Weaknesses:
This is brand new to me, it came on my Blur. The ifp wont hold any air, an o-ring has popped out of somewhere and it is leaking oil. It has 25 easy city miles on it. Piece of crap.
Similar Products Used:
This is my first full suspension
Bike Setup:
Blur XT, Bomber, Hayes, King
Bottom Line:
I don't get it. What a piece of crap. I don't look forward to the flaming hoops I'm gonna have to jump through to get this problem corrected quickly.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Roberto
a
from U.S. Date Reviewed: June 23, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Santa Cruz - OEM
Similar Products Used:
Fox Air, Fox Coil.
Bike Setup:
Blur w/5th element air.
Bottom Line:
Well, I had problems with my 5th element air. But, progressive fixed them within a couple of weeks and the LBS let me use a Fox air shock with my Blur. The difference, in my opinion, is massive. I could hardly wait the 2 weeks for my 5th element to return and it has been great ever since. I really feel the 5th element is much better matched to the VPP design. By the way, the Fox air shock that I used for those 2 weeks, leaked...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jonathan
a Weekend Warrior
from eugene, or Date Reviewed: June 20, 2004
Favorite Trail:
alpine trail. oakridge,or
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
123 bikes
Strengths:
light weight.
Weaknesses:
none yet.
Similar Products Used:
fox rl lock-out
Bike Setup:
intense spider with good stuff.
Bottom Line:
so far it's been great. feels plush and firm when pedaling. i have not had the problems others expressed here. the air is holding fine even after few rides.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
grant
a Racer
from Duncan, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: June 7, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
awesome when it actually holds AIR!
Weaknesses:
Losing aire through the eggshell body....now, how am I going to race this weekend!
Similar Products Used:
Manitou/Fox
Bike Setup:
2003 Intense Spider XVP
Bottom Line:
Well after having spent the last 3 months reading these reviews.....I thought...."Boy, are those guys/gals unlucky, my 5th Element Air rocks, it must be different from theirs!". NOT ANYMORE. I now have an air leak through the seam that connects the upper body of the "egg-shell" to the main body. Air is seeping out of this seam and obviously there is no cure...not even duct tape will help this time. Save your money, time and energy and go buy a Fox AVA or Manitou Swinger!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
max bennet
a Weekend Warrior
from italy Date Reviewed: June 4, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
ferretti bike shop
Strengths:
none by now....
Weaknesses:
all u can imagine....
Similar Products Used:
fox fox fox fox....'n nothing else....
Bike Setup:
sc blur-easton-race face-sram...
Bottom Line:
IFP PISTON LOSES AIR...IMPOSSIBLE TO MEASURE & KEEP IT INFLATE....AFTER THE 2ND RIDE WENT TO THE BIKE SHOP...NO EXPLANATIONS...ACTUALLY THEY SEND IT TO THE OFFICIAL ASSISTANCE POINT...SO ...NO BIKE...NO RIDE...FOR AT LEAST ONE WEEK... ...DIFFICULT TO UNDERSTAND HOW A NEW PRODUCT CAN BE FAILURE...DOES PROGRESSIVE SUSPENSION KNOWS THE WORD "QUALITY CONTROL"?????? ...REALLY A BAD IMPRESSION....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott Scott
a Racer
from Tulsa, OK Date Reviewed: June 2, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Womble
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
came on blur
Strengths:
works as advertised when working
Weaknesses:
reliability
Similar Products Used:
Fox Float AVA
Bike Setup:
Blur
Bottom Line:
This is the 3rd post (4/19/04,12/10/03) Progressive handling everything really well this time. They express mailed me a new shock w/ tag to send old shock back. New shock has worked great, not losing any air, working consistently. It makes the Blur such a nicer ride! IFP is great to play w/ based on terrain riding/racing. When air pressure is set properly in main chamber it really rides plush and feels bottomless. IFP makes it shoot forward w/ each pedal stroke, makes the Blur climb a lot better. Very happy with the way shock is working now, hope it lasts because it rules! If shock had worked like this from the beginning I would give it 5 stars all the way around.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wolf
a
from Bend Date Reviewed: June 1, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
This is another update from my two earlier posts here. It is now June 1, and my last review was May 4. I was only able to do one ride between then and now. First, I thrashed my bike in Moab and had to get several new parts in the mail (derrailleur hanger, spoke for XT wheel, new derrailleur). Don't ask. Anyway, after all that stuff came and I got back on the trail (let's call it 10 days, so May 14th) I did a ride and my 5th Element Air was slipping off of the little bar that holds it in place (I have it on a Ventana El Saltamontes - killer frame, the best).
Several times I had to stop and push it back into place, only to have it rattle off again. Taking it apart at home, it became apparent that the bushing holding it in place was worn into a shape that had rendered it unfit to ride. Next morning I called Progressive. Customer Service picked up the phone in 2 rings. Actual person. That was good. They explained that I had a shock that did not incorporate the improvements that were made to these bushings (now they are metal and pressed in place, vs. plastic and just set in place) - so, away it went in the mail.
They said shocks get turned around in 4 working days... I got my shock back today. I'm not harping, but that was a two week turn, not 8 or 10 days. I also included a note asking for some of the rubber grommets since mine were damaged, but I got none of those in return. No note whatsoever (c'mon guys, just make some post cards up saying 'Thank you for your patience').
Bottom line, the shock is back in action. I'm not pissed at Progressive. I had a little down time, that's all. It's obvious that Progressive could use some people in house that can pay attention to the 'details' of the service. I think they are trying over there, and this shock is still a kick ass product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Radek Kvac
a Weekend Warrior
from usa Date Reviewed: May 28, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
local store North carolina
Strengths:
suck
Weaknesses:
suck
Similar Products Used:
fox vannila r/c
Bike Setup:
all mountains
Bottom Line:
Never ever buy something from Progressive not only this product is absolut suck also costumer sevice is bad.This guys blame it on local store when I try get 5 element coil spring even if aI will pay diffrence between air shock and coil.Another guy tell my call Santa cruz thei are reimbus you .Evryone blame it evryone.So guys why just Progressive dont wann it fix their name sand people their another product????(5 element coil spring).Probably beacouse so many people have bad experience with 5 element air,well is not matter anyway beacouse nobody want waiting 14 days for new shock.I spend 5 minutes in phone with guys from Fox and a get another day, their Fox vanilla :-) Thanks you save my ass ,People from Progressive just dont care about custumers that is it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver Date Reviewed: May 27, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
no bob, can stand and climb or sit and climb. it all feels the same. i clock in at 195, have been hammering down hills and have not felt it bottom out once.
Weaknesses:
main chamber valve core blew out after about 5 rides. lbs took care of it straight away
i may have inadvertently contributed to this problem by doing as progressive suggests and checking my shock pressure before every ride. apparently there is a problem with folks crushing the valve core on the main chamber by screwing their shock pumps on too hard. or (which is more likely) they just aren't that sturdy. either way ,it was fixed quickly and after a couple more rides in search of the right setting i am incredibly happy with this shock. santa cruz' site suggests pressures for both chambers based on the frame (progressives site doesn't list the blur?) and I think they are dead on. as for the reliability, i took a big chance with this thing as i am notorius in my little circle of friends for breaking everything. frames, cranks, ankles, snowboards (typically 2 per season). outside of the schrader valve, all seems good. heading back to moab this weekend. will post more as i go. who should buy it? racers, trail riders, people who don't mind maintaing the things they use. who shouldn't? I would say free riders and downhillers but i am seeing the 5th coil being replaced by 5th air on longer travel bikes frequentlythis season (i.e. heckler and yeti 575) so what do i know. but who ever it is should be perpared to take care of their bike. (my lawn needs mowing but my drive train is clean)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
amy
a
from steamboat, co Date Reviewed: May 19, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Works really, really well - giving a long-travel XC bike the ability to climb as efficiently as a hard-tail.
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Blur & Marzocchi MX Comp w/ETA
Bottom Line:
Perhaps due to user error, my shock didn't seem to be holding air - and I noticed it the day before I had a friend visiting from out of town.
I panicked and called Progressive's tech line - where they were very friendly and helpful. I explained my situation and they overnighted me a loaner shock.
In the end, my shock may have been working just fine - and they said that the excess oil I saw on the shock was normal. All I know is that any company that has such an above-average level of customer service is a company that I will continue to support.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from Oakland, CA Date Reviewed: May 12, 2004
Favorite Trail:
any single track
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
local bike shop
Strengths:
2nd Posting: Works great when it works. Mine worked for about 3 mths, then it started leaking oil. Too bad there isn't more quality control.
The lack of quality outweighs the functionality when it works. I would just stick with Fox, they just work.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wolf
a Cross Country Rider
from Bend, OR Date Reviewed: May 4, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bike Setup:
Ventana El Saltamontes, 5 inch travel, Marzocchi Freeride SL fork, XTR.
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up review to my posting three-posts below this. Over 20 hours riding since my last post, and still two-thumbs up on the 5th Air. I spent 3 days riding in Moab this past week. I never had to even check the air in my shock, it was obvious that it was not changing from day-to-day.
I rode 100 miles over 3 days in Moab. On the third day, I gave the worst beating to the shock that I can dish out. Porcupine Rim, full-out, big air, ledges. Sharp, high-speed hits on thousands of rocks, many of them much higher than curbs. The shock was flawless. It worked perfectly on the long fire road climb from town, the technical, rocky climb to the top of the Rim, as well as the high speed descending.
This shock is incredibly plush, and it never feels like it is bottoming out. I think that's because of the material they put in for when it does in fact run out of travel. I have 5 inches, front and rear, and I bombed the HELL out of that trail.
The 5th Element Air is an incredible shock. I still don't know what's up with the continued negative posting. I think a lot of people just really don't know how to adjust this shock, which a suprise because so damn basic.
Additionally, several rental bikes I came across on the trail were using the 5th Air. They weren't adjusted at all. Stupid settings for the people that were using them. And this, from supposedly professional shops in Moab. One of the shocks must have had thousands of hours on it it was so worn. I thought it was blown, but I helped the rider out with it, adjusted the air volumes and the dampening valve, and I got it working very well in less than 5 minutes.
If those rental fleet shocks are lasting this long, particularly being set up wrong, I do believe it is further testament to the durability of the shock.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from Oakland, CA Date Reviewed: April 26, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Downieville
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
local bike shop
Strengths:
The 5th element air does what it is should do, stays firm on the climb, smooths out the bumps when you hit them. No problems with it maintaining air presure. So far it is like the fox, set it and leave it.
Weaknesses:
Setup is a bit tough, I finally used the sag method and it works well. The manufacture site also has some good tips.
Similar Products Used:
Fox air, fox coil over befor that.
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Heckler, SID SL, XT/XTR, Easton Monkey Lite
Bottom Line:
5th element works and improves overall climbing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MANOLET SANTOS
a Cross Country Rider
from MAKATI CITY, PHILIPPINES Date Reviewed: April 25, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Sta Rosa, Laguna
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2050.00
Purchased At:
Favorite bike shop!!
Strengths:
LOOKS GOOD, VERY LIGHT
Weaknesses:
BLEW OFF AFTER FIRST 35 KMS USED...
Similar Products Used:
MANITOU 3 WAY, 4 WAY, FOX PRO-PEDAL
Bike Setup:
INTENSE EVP 5.5, XTR 04, THOMPSON, EASTON, CHRIS KING, MANITOU MINUTE 2 130 mm.
Bottom Line:
SHOCK CAME WITH MY BRAND NEW INTENSE EVP 5.5. FOLLOWED ALL FORK & SHOCK INSTRUCTIONS c/o BIKE SHOP JUST TO SET IT UP FOR MY FIRST RIDE. AFTER THE RIDE, I NOTICED THAT THE SAG WAS "MORE" THAN MY INITIAL SET-UP. SO WE BROUGHT OUT THE SHOCK PUMP AND CHECKED THE AIR IN THE IFP CHAMBER. I STARTED OUT AT 80 PSI. THE PUMP READ 40 PSI. SO I ADDED MORE AIR TO BRING UP THE READING BACK TO 80. NO DICE. I THOUGH MY PUMP WAS BROKEN...I BROUGHT MY BIKE TO THE SHOP AND HAVE A MECHANIC TAKE A LOOK. HE PUMPED AND AS HE WAS DOING SO, YOU COULD SEE THE PUMP GUAGE LITERALLY MOVE DOWN IN PSI PRESURE!!! MY VALVES BLEW OFF... HOW?? NO ONE HAS THE FOGIEST CLUE!! I DONT EVEN RIDE HARD ENOUGH!!!
THIS MAY BE THE LIGHTEST REAR SHOCK OUT THERE BUT PROGRESSIVE FORGOT THE OTHER L WORD THAT APROPRIETLY SHOULD COME WITH IT...LOUSIEST!!! NOW, I CANT RIDE MY NEW EVP CAUSE I HAVE TO WAIT FOR A REPLACEMENT SHOCK. I OPTED TO CHANGE TO THE MANITOU 4 WAY!!! TILL THEN, ITS A WAIT AND SEE....
TO THOSE THINKING OF UPGRADING TO THIS LIGHT & LOUSY SHOCK, THINK TWICE EVEN 3X ABOUT IT!!! ITS ALL HYPE...ITS ALL NAME...BETTER YET, ITS ALL GOOD MARKETING AND GREAT PAYMENT TO MAGAZINES TO WRITE GREAT REVIEWS ABOUT IT!! WELL, THIS 5TH AIR SHOCK SUCKS!!! LOUSY AT 230 GRAMS... WHAT A WASTE OF MONEY!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wolf
a Cross Country Rider
from Bend, OR Date Reviewed: April 23, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$350.00
Strengths:
Lite weight, low air volume, function
Weaknesses:
Not sure yet
Bike Setup:
Ventana El Saltamontes, full XTR with XT wheels, Marzzochi FR SL fork
Bottom Line:
Not sure what everyones beef is on these reviews. I've got over 20 hours on my shock, not one problem to report. It works like a Swiss watch. The 5th Element is getting a bad rapp. I read the reviews and bought one, anyway, and I don't regret it. My 5 inches of travel feel like 6 or 7 with this shock, and if I want a more responsive ride I just put a little more air in it. I'm 170lbs, and I usually go with 80-90 in the IFP chamber first, then put 130lbs in the main chamber. I like to add to the main vs. the IFP because I like the benefits of a little less sag and a lower 'blowoff' pressure. Beyond 90lbs in the IFP chamber and the shock is getting a little harsh on initial hits.
I don't think this shock is as hard to dial in as people are making it out to be. If Progressive had problems in their initial batch, they seem to be well on the way to sorting them out. I think the "my shock was only good for one ride" days are over.
When I'm out of the saddle, pedaling, the shock still moves. Maybe it's because I only have 80-90psi in the IFP. No bob while sitting.
5 green tip hot steam turds for value, 4 for value (just because it was a big outlay compared to other prices out there - and there are lots of good shocks).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott Robertson
a Racer
from Tulsa, OK Date Reviewed: April 19, 2004
Favorite Trail:
womble
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
with bike
Strengths:
rides as advertised when working properly
Weaknesses:
reliability
Similar Products Used:
fox ava
Bike Setup:
blur that came with 5th element air
Bottom Line:
This is the 2nd posting. First one was 12/03 when I was in Austin, TX if anyone is interested in previous review. When I finally got in touch with Progressive's Warranty Dept. they were very helpful and expedited the warranty quickly. Only problem was when I got the shock back it was even worse than before. Mounted it, pushed down on seat to see if it would cycle, and it just stuck compressed. E-mailed them twice this month (got it back end of march) heard nothing. Called today and got someone live. She was very helpful and is sending a new shock. Will post again when I get the shock in and actually get to ride it. I want this shock to work because it could be a great thing, but if new shock doesn't work that is it! Right now have to give lowest ratings because it has been a disaster. By they way the Fox AVA that I replaced the 5th Element has been great, but bike is a little more sluggish because I didn't get the Propedal version.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Flagan
a Cross Country Rider
from Bend Oregon Date Reviewed: April 15, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Any Singletrack
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
When it works, it works better than anything else out there. Super plush. Can't bottom it out. Pedals like a hardtail.
Weaknesses:
Zero reliability. First one lasted 20 hours and turned into a pogo stick. Second one shot oil out of both valves and wouldn't hold air. I'm waiting for the third.
Similar Products Used:
Fox Float Air
Bike Setup:
Blur w/XT and XTR, Skareb, Chris King tubeless wheels.
Bottom Line:
Do yourself a big favor and go with a Fox unless you like to send things back and dream of riding instead of actually doing it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kelly Smith
a
from Seattle, WA Date Reviewed: April 14, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Gold Creek
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Came on Bike
Strengths:
The shock is light and very tunable.
Weaknesses:
Not user serviceable. Prone to leaks, stiction.
Similar Products Used:
Fox Vanilla (Pre Spring Vanilla), Fox Float R
Bike Setup:
Yeti Koko with Marzocchi X-fly fork.
Bottom Line:
I had problems with the valve length right out of the box. Sent it back to Progressive who claims to have put new stems in, but I still had to modify the head on my shock pump to get it to screw on far enough to activate the valve and pump air in. I have a friend who has had leaking issues on his after 6 months. After all the hype about problems with the shock, I replaced it with a trusty Fox Float R. I don't want to get stuck out on an epic with a dead shock. This is a good concept, but needs a little more R & D and QA on Progressive's end.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john fish
a Racer
from austin, tx, usa Date Reviewed: April 10, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$360.00
Purchased At:
360 cycleworks
Strengths:
no bob, soft and light
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
fox ava
Bike Setup:
moots smoothie al, sid 80, xtr discs and wheels, python tubed tires with stans no tubes
Bottom Line:
After about 20 hours of use, the 5th element does a great job of reducing bob on the smoothie without sacrificing the ride. I weigh 180 pounds and have the upper chamber set at about 100 lbs and and the bottom at 130 lbs. Hopefully the bugs have been fixed because the shock really improves the Smoothie which is prone to bob. the 5th Element and Notubes have signifantly enhanced my bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kristian Willman
a Cross Country Rider
from Bend Or, USA Date Reviewed: April 6, 2004
Favorite Trail:
My back yard
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Shock works great when it works. Great concept when it works.
Weaknesses:
Shock failed with 20 hrs of riding. Customer service is ok they seem to give you the run around. They are sending out 2 new shocks for my riding partner and myself. That was last week still have not seen them yet. Both of our shocks blew oil and are pogo sticks with no rebound or compression dampining.
Similar Products Used:
Fox pro pedal
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Blur XTR, Raceface LP, all the Kill S?&% !
Bottom Line:
Dont buy it unless they have fixed all the problems. I know its light I know its sounds sweet, but we dont buy bikes to sit in our garages we buy them to ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Baltimore Date Reviewed: March 31, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
When it works, it is awesome! It completely eliminates bob inherent to the single pivot design. It is an elegant design and light weight production. I just wish it worked for more than 3-4 rides.
Weaknesses:
It fails... I have had the same problem four times now. After a rugged descent, the rear end will pogo/bob uncontrollably while pedaling. It feels like a flat rear tire. Closer examination reveals that it is due to a lack of spring rate in the initial 1/2" of shock travel. Other symptoms include loss of rebound dampening. Both air chambers appear to maintain their pre-established pressure, but something is noticeably wrong internally. Worse yet, every time I try to get it warrantied, Santa Cruz and Progressive throw me back and forth telling me the other has the responsibility to deal with it until one of them cave. They always make me pay return shipping. It takes weeks to months to get it all done. I have had the bike for a little over 6 months. I have very little opportunity to ride it because of the repeated Progressive 5th Air failures. I waited 9 months to get the bike... It is a bit pathetic on both companies’ parts. I have always read about Santa Cruz's superior customer service... but I have failed to see it.
Similar Products Used:
Fisher Sugar Team, GT LTS, Maverick ML7
Bike Setup:
XTR, Hayes, Chris King, Thomson
Bottom Line:
To be fair, it is a great shock and an exciting design. I have a friend who has had great luck with his 5th Air. It seems to be hit or miss. I just keeping getting the misses. :( If it held up to normal use, it would definitely be the highest ranked product in the niche of rear shocks. Also, if the frame seller and shock producer had better customer service, it wouldn't be getting tanked so much on this review board. It is a disservice to the industry if you alienate the people that support it by spending thousands on their bikes. I think it is time to try the competitions goods. I know they are getting better reviews. Look for yourself.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt MacDonald
a Weekend Warrior
from Wethersfield, CT, USA Date Reviewed: March 27, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Does it matter as long as you're riding!
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Vernon Cycles
Strengths:
Well performing shock when it's set up properly (don't even know if have gotten there yet). Very little pedal bob noticed.
Weaknesses:
Well as with what appears to most new 5th Element users Holy Difficult Set Up Bat Man. Couldn't get the thing dialed in right. First, the instructions that came with it and/or the website are horrible. Thought it was leaking air during the ride and brought it back to shop and they greased it up and explained the air in the pump deal (I'm a virgin full suspension guy). Then it seemed to work OK. Had a muddy ride last week and gave it a quick clean. Gave it a more thorough cleaning this morning. Guess what, the main chamber shrader seems to be leaking. Got a duathalon tomorrow and my hard tail looks like a science project. How my LBS (Pedal Power, Middletown MAD PROPS) can help me out with what appears to be the O-Ring problem described by JD.
Similar Products Used:
None told you I'm a rookie.
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Blur R Disc. Fox Float RLC, 5th....now a 4th Element.
Bottom Line:
If my problem is what JD from Progressive descibed in the previous review I won't be too pissed. The way I see it we are all test riders for these guys and as long as they acknowledge the problem.
If it's not the O-ring JD will be seeing my shock in the warranty dept.
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