Submitted by
soren.s.s
a Weekend Warrior
from Missoula MT Date Reviewed: October 23, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Dirt jumps
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$140.00
Purchased At:
Bike Doctor
Strengths:
obsorbs shocks well doesent bottom out like everybody sais
Weaknesses:
cracked the arch, preload isnt very adjustible
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
GT chucker 3.0
Bottom Line:
The fork is pretty good, the person at the bike shop said that that type of wreck would break any fork like that, so I dont have very much against it except that the preload doesent adjust it very much
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shell Shell
a Weekend Warrior
from Norway Date Reviewed: May 21, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Gravel
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
XXL
Strengths:
Great suspension for gravel tracks - cheap (!) - easy adjustment - lock out
Weaknesses:
A bit to heavy - does compress to much by default
Similar Products Used:
Several Rock Shocks - RST
Bike Setup:
Scott Scale 50 (came with this damper)
Bottom Line:
Best damper I've ever had but I'm interested in a lighter (stiffer one) for XC races. I have ridden this damper quite hard in XC trails and have not broken it yet - seems like its a good product. Seems like an ok damper but need adjustment (unless you are just skin and bones)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Cross Country Rider
from Illinois Date Reviewed: April 10, 2007
Favorite Trail:
There's trail in Squamish, B.C. named after a dead guy - Bob I think it was.
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
Bob's Bikes in Chicago
Strengths:
Not the body. This is a good all purpose fork.
Weaknesses:
After 1 year I broke the shock in half while riding a moderately aggrressive xcountry trail. I didn't realize it was busted until I tried to take off the wheel and one strut came off at a time. Marzocchi promptly replaced the shock free of charge!
Similar Products Used:
Many.
Bike Setup:
Giant warp DS-1, Mavic F219 rims with XT hubs and 2.2" tires, Truvative Stylo crank, MonkeyLight Handle bars, and a newer stronger coil-over spring than stock.
Bottom Line:
It's factory equipment on a lower, mid-ranged priced bike. There are tons of better shocks, but there are tons of worse ones too. If you have a chance to improve your bike, buy new wheels first, then think about swapping out this fork. Don't buy it to improve your bike unless your current ride really sucks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sneaker
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney, Australia Date Reviewed: October 7, 2006
Favorite Trail:
any i can find
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Its very light and works neat on anything going downhill. Its a s#$% load better than the RST Omni 191 it replaced. Saved my ass from what would have been a very painful stack on the Omni :). Pretty sweet on curb hopping through the burbs.
Weaknesses:
Feels a lil flexy sometimes. I want a better fork after using this even though it craps all over the RST POS. Need regular maintenance as i am beginning to find out,only 2 months (1000km) and its lost some of its plushness :(
Bike Setup:
Avanti Escape, Sun Rim Ditch Witch rims
Bottom Line:
Got this as a replacement once my RST pos locked up. I am a newbie but i think this fork is ok for the price. Steep downhills on fire trails are where i feel it shines. As mentioned before its already saved me. It does feel flexy sometimes but nothing significant. Good for newbies like me
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Neil
a Cross Country Rider
from Manchester Date Reviewed: December 12, 2005
Favorite Trail:
edale - hayfield (via jacobs ladder)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
HH cycles
Strengths:
Lockout, Adjustable rebound
Weaknesses:
none yet.
Similar Products Used:
RST, Marzocchi
Bike Setup:
Rockhopper 05' stock
Bottom Line:
They came as standard on the bike, I have done 600 off road miles on them in 6 months, without a single problem (touch wood). That said I have not been jumping off cliff faces with them.I do weigh in at 14.5 stone and they are perfect for the type of riding that I do (XC and singletrack but not Downhill/Extreme). I do think that they feel a little fragile, but this has not had any effect on their performance (I put this down to my excess weight!). I would recommend these to an enthusiast, but not a racer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vanessa and Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Houston, Texas, USA Date Reviewed: August 23, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Cypresswood
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
Sun and Ski Sports
Strengths:
Lockout is impressive, dial in preload and tension with a gauge
Weaknesses:
WAY too soft, degree of travel, sticky response, lockout seems weak
Similar Products Used:
Spinner Grind AC 323 (on Bobcat Trail)
Bike Setup:
Stock 2005 Marin Nail Trail
Bottom Line:
This is an impressive fork for a stock set-up. The lock out feature and the compression dial are attractive add-ons; unfortunately, I expect a stiffer, more resistant quality, and the Manitou doesn't deliver that. It's not worth the price you pay, especially for a medium-tier bike. Rock Shox and Marzocchi forks are definitely more bang for the buck. I would consider upgrading or finding a bike with these as stock.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Will
a Cross Country Rider
from Dover, MA, US Date Reviewed: August 12, 2005
Favorite Trail:
One I don't crash on
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
Was better than no shocks in the beginning. Did fine for most rides.
Weaknesses:
Arch support fractured while riding, causing me to tumble - had to ride home with wheel rubbing brakes for 10 miles.
Bike Setup:
stock Gary Fisher Hoo Koo E Koo bought in '03.
Bottom Line:
This product is a safety hazard. Fortunately my crash was at low speed when the support arch fractured on one side.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fraz Dokie
a Racer
from alabama Date Reviewed: August 4, 2005
Favorite Trail:
me backyard
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
me local store
Strengths:
looks pretty flashey uuuuuummmmmmm its good
Weaknesses:
the silver thingys go into the back things ( i tink ther called lowers)
Similar Products Used:
wooden stick
Bike Setup:
cardboard box with weels and this spoon i mean fork
Bottom Line:
its good exceppt that the fork movves
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bernie
a Weekend Warrior
from Laguna, Philippines Date Reviewed: April 26, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Caliraya & Cavinti Trails
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
Ross Cycles-Cartimar
Strengths:
It's a Manitou!
Weaknesses:
All adjustable features seems No Function - Nothings happening when you adjust the travel and rebound.
Similar Products Used:
Marz Bomber MX Comp
Bike Setup:
XXTenssion w/ LX 05 Group set
Bottom Line:
Save your dollars and buy other models, this is a display fork only on your bike. This fluid type sucks deeply and rebounds poorly, not recommended for heavier riders.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Patrick
a Downhiller
from Moapa, NV, 89025 Date Reviewed: March 25, 2005
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$250.00
Strengths:
The fork can be really plush and fast action on the high speed downhills. I don't need to worry about anything smaller than a curb. The adjustment Knobs work great, I don't what these other people are talking about. I ride a steel frame that flexs anyway so the fork matches the frame really well. I am 5'10" 180 and it works great.
Weaknesses:
Only that it seems to cost more than it should
Similar Products Used:
Manitou SX
Bike Setup:
Hard tail steel frame, downhill rims and tires.
Bottom Line:
Bottom line is that the fork works great. I haven't had any problems. Only if I go to moab I would like to get the firming kit from Manitou. If you like huge drops and low speed this fork is not for you. If you like high speed and fast riding this is your tool.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill Murray
a Weekend Warrior
from Australia Date Reviewed: October 20, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
looks good
Weaknesses:
travel adjust is a joke, too easy to bottom out, you cant run tyres fatter than 2.2 with the reverse arch. they flex like crazy, expensive
Similar Products Used:
rockshox judy
Bike Setup:
2005 specialized hardrock sport disc w/manitou axel super alloy platform pedals, electrical tape
Bottom Line:
I got these forks put on my bike after the RST's that came on it gave up, when i first got it the the tyre rubbed on the reverse arch and wore away at the tyre. you cant run anything fatter then 2.2 otherwise the wheel wont roll. they are alright for XC but once you start doing drops above 4inches they cant handle it. they flex like theres no tomorrow, i weigh 50kg and can bottom them out while im riding on flat concrete simply by "pumping" them up and down. all in all im am bitterly disapointed and will be buying some 2005 rockshox judy SL's or marzocchi MX comp coil's in the next week or so.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rene
a Weekend Warrior
from Veracruz, Mexico Date Reviewed: June 14, 2004
Favorite Trail:
chiluca
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Stock on Bike
Strengths:
Fairly good performance. Hard to bottom (at least for me)
Weaknesses:
Reverse arch too low for 2.2 tires. Poor rebound adjustment.
Similar Products Used:
Manitou SX '00
Bike Setup:
Stock Giant Warp DS1 2003
Bottom Line:
A fork you don't need to change if it came stock on the bike. It does its job without complaints or highlights. I would recommend it as an upgrade for cheaper or similar priced (Rock Shox?) forks or bikers on a budget. Mine is a OEM version without the RTWD and it bobs easily. It's sweet going downhill though. Point and Shoot. Not a Black or a Zoke but the fork follows your instructions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kemal K
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: May 16, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Lower Don
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Bike Depot
Strengths:
Lockout is really useful and is not usually found on lower level forks If you're not going to be doing any real jumps it'll do Good for beginner-novice riders who won't be doing any racing. The microlube ports work amazing and are easy to use
Weaknesses:
Flexes like no tommorow, preload does absolutely nothing,rebound adjustement is barely noticeable bobs like mad in a sprint, would no recommend it for racers. Nearly bottoms out just going over curbs, unpredictable
Bike Setup:
Specialized Rockhopper Pro (hardtail)-- Stock XT/Deore Mix, Avid Single Digit Brakes, Mavic 221 Rims
Bottom Line:
If you use this fork for purely XC riding it'll do the job. Its not very sensitive over samller roots and stuff but as soon as you ride off anything higher than a curb the travel nearly bottoms out. I haven't had many problems with it being too soft because I'm only 140 lbs but any heavier riders will need to get stiffer springs. NEVER take this dirt jumping!! It simply can't handle it. Way too flexy. I'm looking to upgrade but it'll do for another season while I save up enough to buy a really good fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erick B
a Cross Country Rider
from Tampa, Fl Date Reviewed: May 15, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
none
Weaknesses:
EVERYTHING! is broken!
Similar Products Used:
rock shox pyslo race, manitou black
Bike Setup:
stumpjumper
Bottom Line:
This is a HORRIBLE shock, it worked for the first week, and then the lock out broke, has no resistence, rebound doesnt work, preload barely works. if i even hit a stupid speed bump it bottoms out! worst thing i have ever touched! today the lock-out lever fell off... this fork had ruined my life, dont get it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Avi Hefets
a Weekend Warrior
from Israel Date Reviewed: April 30, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Agressive XC
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bike Setup:
Specialized rockhoper fsr comp
Bottom Line:
This is my second review. I upgraded the fork using manitou's firm kit. I must say the fork is by far better, and if you are an agressive XC rider and you tend to blend it with some free riding, than the kit will do the work. The new spring is very stiff and can handle real tough trails. adjusting the rebound to the oil's slowest flow will ease the spring a little bit and will apply the rider with some more feeling of controll. The kit comes with aluminum cap instead of the silly plastic one that came with the fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steven Wen
a
from Granada Hills, CA Date Reviewed: April 15, 2004
Favorite Trail:
staircases
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
129.00
Strengths:
looks, lightweight only 4.2lbs, 80-100mm travel, rebound dampening, and preload.
Weaknesses:
none so far...hope nothing happens
Similar Products Used:
manitou black, mozo, rst crappa
Bike Setup:
2001 identiti jeckyll, axel super 03, avid mech disks front and rear, avid speed dials, black spire chainguide and DH ring, geax tires, profile DH bars, rhynolyte wheels, FSA orbit extreme, sram 7.0 set.
Bottom Line:
So far, I have had absolutely no problems at all. I read several of the reviews and I was scared when I purchased them. I bought them because they were a great deal from Nashbar.com. I rode it a few times and decided to convert to 100mm and added the firm spring kit.
This shock has taken 4fters easy and the University library staircase with ease. My rebound adjust works great but others seem to have problems and the preload easily firms up the shock with a few turns.
My only complaint are the interals and the caps holding the spring are made of plastic...kinda scary but I havent had any problems yet. These shocks are now stiff enough to take some bigger hits and there is no longer any bob while climbing. but I am not a heavy rider (155lbs)....I would definitely buy it again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nicholas
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: March 30, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Mission Trails hills
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Hmm . . . Hasn't broken or given me any major problems
Weaknesses:
Adjustment mechanisms don't seem to change anything . . . flexs wayyyyy too easy when used by bigger riders like me (6'0, 180)
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
2003 Fisher HooKooEKoo
Bottom Line:
Came stock with the bike (which, I LOVE, besides the fork). Very skittish on fast downhills. Just for fun, I did a little flex test on it today after my ride; I stood in front of my bike and held the front wheel between my legs while I torqued the handlebars, and the fork immediately and noticably flexed and twisted. While some amount of bobbing should be expected on big-ring, stand-up sprints on any fork if you're not locked out, the Axel turns completely to mush. I mess with the controls every once in a while to see if it makes any difference in the feel, and it usually never does. I haven't had any major problems with it, but it sure hasn't impressed me either. As a result, I have decided to save some $ to buy a really nice Fox Fork that will hopefully do the rest of my fine bike justice.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Avi Hefets
a Weekend Warrior
from Israel Date Reviewed: March 22, 2004
Favorite Trail:
XC
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The preload adjustment is very effective - when you set the dial all the way to the + the shock gets very hard and stiff. the rebound dial works O.K The axel is quite light taking into consideration that it consists of coils and the fact that it's a 100 mm shock. the weight is 1.9 kg (4.2 lbs.)
Weaknesses:
I had several problems: it got too stiff during the first 3 rides. I had to return it for fixing and tuning. At the first 10 rides it behaved in an unexpectable manner. I couldn't predict it's behaviour on tuff trails. While jumping some small stairs the shock almost reached it's travel limits.
Bike Setup:
The bike i'm using is Specialized Rockhopper fsr comp. I must add that the bike is outstanding, and a pro rider can really reach his own limits on these rock eaters.
Bottom Line:
I must confess I expected a better shock on such hi end bikes. I'm very pleased with the bikes, but had too much of a mess with the Axel fork. At the moment, after repairing it it's better, but I lost some confidence during the process. I was affraid to jump stairs and to tackle tuff trails. If I new everything right from the start I'd chose the Rockshox XC 108 mm U-turn.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nick
a Cross Country Rider
from Laguna Hills, CA, USA Date Reviewed: March 1, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Came on bike
Strengths:
Cheep, standard equip.
Weaknesses:
Dampening knobs do not make noticeable adjustments, the compression knob works
Similar Products Used:
Fox Float RL, Misc. Rock shox
Bike Setup:
LX/Deore
Bottom Line:
The shock worked OK for about a year while learning how to ride MTB. It is adequate for mild trail riding but once you get to medium or aggressive you will have to upgrade.
I snapped the fork in half on a medium intensity downhill. I’m working with the LBS to get replacement parts under warranty.
You cant really expect much, this shock is a low range product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shin Shredder
a Weekend Warrior
from Ventura County, CA USA Date Reviewed: February 29, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
doesn't matter
Bottom Line:
This is an update to the review I poste in December. (below)
While I still think that the this fork being spec'ed on my bike was a mistake, I may have been a litte hard on it in my review. Make no mistake, this is not a fork that likes jumping of any kind or anything too rough, but I have put this thing through a lot of abuse over the last few months and haven't really had any problems with it (knock on wood).It creaks a little bit, but nothing too bad.
I say that if you are a weekend trail rider who is not doing anything too radical (drops, real rough decents, etc.) then this fork will work. Nothing spectacular, but nothing too bad either. Let's just say that I have a much higher opinion of it than I did a few months ago.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
nasalaunch1
a Cross Country Rider
from chicago Date Reviewed: January 1, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim in Moab, UT
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
from a friend
Strengths:
provides some sluggish suspension, does that well.
Weaknesses:
1. It flexes so that you get a "shing-shing" sound on your disc brakes when you hammer, climb or something and you sound like a freight train (which isn't bad, it's kind of cool) 2. The person who put that support ring over the tire obviously advocates "ride only when dry" riding because that thing catches mud and slows you almost to a stop (in midwest mud anyway). I had to carry my bike back from a muddy trail today because every 15 yards i'd be stuck up w/mud in that arch. I run 2.24 tires so maybe i'll get smaller tires. whatever. 3. The rebound adjustment does nothing and it leaks blue fluid so i think it would have been better if it wasn't on the bike at all.
Similar Products Used:
rock shox jett
Bike Setup:
Stock Bianchi DISS single speed w/Axel Super
Bottom Line:
flexes, catches mud, pointless rebound adjustment, tech support would not answer email (typical).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shin Shredder
a Weekend Warrior
from Ventura County Date Reviewed: December 21, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Any Singletrack
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Better than a rigid fork. Really not too bad if your only going downhill on mild terrain. It also has a lockout.
Weaknesses:
Way too soft. Often bottoms out when I go off a tall curb, and when it bottoms out it makes a noise that sounds like it's going to break in half. The adjustments do very little.
Similar Products Used:
None, and I still know that this thing sucks; that should tell you something.
Bike Setup:
Stock '03 Specialized FSR Disk
Bottom Line:
I hate to be a jerk like this, but whoever spec'ed this shock on this bike really didn't think things through. The rest of the bike is great, which makes this shock look like even more of a P.O.S. When I get the cash, I have every intention of getting rid of this thing and upgrading. If I would have had the opportunity to ride (seriously ride) this bike, I may not have purcahsed it due to the fact that I now have to spend the extra cash to upgrade this fork. The price you pay for being a newbie I guess......
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a Cross Country Rider
from L.A Date Reviewed: November 30, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Whoops
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Cycle Worls
Strengths:
Looks nice, good adjustments compared to my old Judy, does what fine on my single tracks, love the lockout.
Weaknesses:
Still not a black, still coil, not as heavy duty as a black or skareb, Manitou's lower end
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shock Judy TT, Black manitou elite, Pilot Sl
Bike Setup:
Stumpjumper fsr, xt front, avid mechanicals front and rear
Bottom Line:
Decent fork. I will probably upgrade but for now I'll stick with the axel.There are a lot better forcks out there that are alot better deal such as an 03'skareb or even a rock shock duke. If it did not come with my bike theres no way I would have chosen this, but so far it has served me well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ryan allen
a Cross Country Rider
from cedar rapids , IA, Date Reviewed: November 26, 2003
Favorite Trail:
otter creek, KY
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
St Mathews Schwin
Strengths:
100mm of travel dosen't bottom out under normal use/cross country, verry smoth.
Weaknesses:
Spring is to soft, I'm 150lbs when fok bottoms out an un godly sound is produced, spring tension is not verry adjustable.
Similar Products Used:
several manitou and rock shock modles
Bike Setup:
2003 Rock Hopper FSR Comp
Bottom Line:
I love Manitou forks, but this is one that I would not sugest to most people. It would be fine for any one around my weight (150lb) that dosen't do much jumping or other extreem riding that would cause a fork to bottom out.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Al
a Cross Country Rider
from Lynn Haven, Florida Date Reviewed: November 12, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Ride. The fork is a step or two up from my 3-yr old Rockshox hydrocoil which is not bad. Tubes are bigger too. Manitou has good reputation for longevity at lbs (not bought there)
Weaknesses:
Rebound damping assembly is defective. At least one error in the ownwer's manual. Minimal support information on the WEB site for the Axel and part of the WEB site dealing with the Axel is disfunctional. Owner's manual has insufficient detail.
Similar Products Used:
Rockshox hydrocoil
Bike Setup:
2003 Specialized FSR Stumpjumper Disc with hydraulic brakes relaced with my Avid cable-activated discs from old bike. I got the dealer to buy back the Shimanos.
Bottom Line:
I've only had the new bike for a week and only ridden 34 miles on it. However, since I've got the same rebound damping problem as the other folks here, I thought I'd provide some info.
This is a very nice fork even with no rebound damping IMO. Though it takes the full preload to achieve the sag spec'ed in the owners manual, I like it best with no preload for my local area. I'm too heavy for the standard spring at 195 to 200 pounds including pack, but it works nicely on N Florida type trails of big roots and logs.
I have the stiffer spring on order as I ride a lot in the N Georgia, N Carolina and Tennessee mountains and I do Moab once in a while. It appears easy to cange out the spring, so I'll probably save the original spring for N Florida.
A good reference for setting up suspension is Ned Overends book by the way. Bottoming out once or twice during a ride implies a good set-up for the conditions and riding style.
I got Manitou to send the new rebound damping assembly to my house. I plan to install it myself. With the componsnt diagram on their WEB site and the owner's manual, it should not be much of a problem. The component diagram lists two oil levels for the Axel Super: 4.75 inches which agrees with the owner's manual and 3.6" which is listed as "lock out oil level". Apparently, the proper level for the Super is 3.6" vice the 4.75" listed in the manual. That's a lot more oil. The Manitou Tech person agreed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
donald
a Weekend Warrior
from longmont, co, usa Date Reviewed: November 1, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Hall Rancy
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Bicycle Village
Strengths:
Lockout
Weaknesses:
Stiffness, adjustability
Similar Products Used:
Psylo, Manitou 4 (old)
Bike Setup:
Stumpjumper FSR - front/rear disks
Bottom Line:
The shock worked decently before I put on disk brakes. With V-brakes it was working pretty good. With the stock spring it was fairly easy to bottom out (175lbs). Within a couple weeks after install of mechanical disk brakes a creeking noise developed in the fork. Took it to LBS to rebuild/fix. They thought that the lowers on the shock weren't stiff enough to handle disks (even though the mounts are there) and with exreme braking it could bend them. They relpaced seals and it worked good for 1 more ride and the problem re-occured.
Bottom bottom line. With no disk brakes and maybe not as extreme conditions that can be found in CO they would probably be ok. If you plan on running disks and or like rocky trails I wouldn't buy them.
If it tells you anything was at Velo swap last weekend and a new Axel super was going for $50. Going to the Marzocchi Z1 FR SL now.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a
from Seattle Date Reviewed: October 2, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Inexpensive (came stock on my Stumpjumper FSR), light weight, lots of user features.
This fork is no Marzocchi Marathon but it ain't a crappy RST fork on a Wal-mart bike either and definitely not deserving of 1 chili pepper as a couple of "flamers" and "trollers" have given it. I would rate it average to slightly above considering it's low entry-level price tag.
IT WILL NOT BREAK ON A TWIG as one reviewer cited. I have done drop-offs, small jumps, and bashed it against logs. I'm no free-rider but I do aggressive XC riding and it has held up fine.
The only trouble I have had with it in the little while I've had it is the damping feature -- located on the bottom of the right fork sometimes -- sometimes doesn't work. It works again if you turn on the lockout, and press down on the fork, and then turn off the lockout. Strange. Perhaps they are interconnected via the spring and it gets stuck?
Hey, then again Marzocchi and Rock Shox have their problems too.
Yes, it's made to a budget point and designed for XC riding. Don't be dirtjumping or downhilling on it! It works, and best of all it has external damping, lockout, and preload all for an affordable price. Sure the snob and purist may say they're not essential features but it's nice to have and you'll use them.
You wouldn't want them if you're a 250lb freerider, or to match up on a $3000 Lightspeed frame, but it's a cost effective upgrade if you're riding a general XC MTB bike in the sub $1000 range and need better front suspension than what your ride came with.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Arete
a
from Australia Date Reviewed: September 22, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
better than an xc elastomer fork
Weaknesses:
flexy, inadequate tyre clearance, inadequate spring stiffness, adjustsment relatively inffectual
Similar Products Used:
hmm, name it.
Bike Setup:
Stock Giant ACid
Bottom Line:
Basically this is a silly spec for this bike. I would have been haapy to pay a bit more in the shop to get a better fork on the bike and in hindsight I should have swapped it before i left, but I didn't think it would be this bad. The fork is too soft for me and my riding style and I am 54kgs (around 130lbs) and that is just stupid. It flexes a lot, a maxxis bling bling dual tyre rubs on the arch. This fork makes the bike skittish and sketchy to land. I am saving for a new fork as we speak. Maybe it's one for the xc set but don't even think of putting it on a dirtjump/play street bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steven Hamilton
a Weekend Warrior
from Aliso Veijo, CA Date Reviewed: August 19, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Aliso/Wood Canyon
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
100 mm of travel (Optional lock out- is nice)
Weaknesses:
Doesn't have the smoothest traveel, and will bottom out if your a heavier rider like me.
Not a bad fork, but not a good one either. At 210lbs. It would bottom out, and just didn't have the smooth movements that I got from my Duke XC. Not a bad entery level stock shock. But I would not recomend going out and buying it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Charlie
a Racer
from Mass. Date Reviewed: August 18, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$220.00
Purchased At:
Landry's Bicycles
Strengths:
I have been riding this fork for about 3 weeks and have not found any problems. The fork is really plush and an overall fun ride.
Weaknesses:
Compared to other products its not as much an efficient-peddler-friendly fork.
Similar Products Used:
2002 Rock Shox Psylo Race and SL, Sid Team.
Bike Setup:
2003 Specialized Comp/Disc.
Bottom Line:
Its a fun ride, you'll see the Axel a lot on most Specialized complete bikes. It really balances out the Fox Float. You will like this fork if you are an avid cross-country rider who usually prefers the downhill more than uphill.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
andy
a Downhiller
from laramie,wyo,usa Date Reviewed: July 18, 2003
Favorite Trail:
uw
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$215.00
Purchased At:
Strengths:
none i am 13 and 93 pounds and i bottom it out with doing any thing
Weaknesses:
every thing and it sounds bad when you bottom it out
Bottom Line:
it is a pos i think all of them should be set on fire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
William
a Cross Country Rider
from Arlington Date Reviewed: July 12, 2003
Favorite Trail:
North Shore in Grapevine
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
B&B Bikes ..stock on spec rockhopper
Strengths:
Have not found one yet!!! Well I guess there is enough room in the shock tubes to fill them with sand, I bet it would be more reliable then!!!!
Weaknesses:
The shock itself..I have had it three weeks it hasent worked properly since I started using it.
Similar Products Used:
RST Rock shox
Bike Setup:
Spec Rockhopper comp
Bottom Line:
The first day I had it the preload broke..It bottoms out on a twig .The stock spring seemed to loose tension after a few rides. It flexed so much my tire wore a indintion in the so call stiff reverse arc. The bike shop I bought it from said the front wheel was flexing not the fork, so I had the wheel trued three times, once after each time I rode and it didnt help one bit.. So I purchased the firm spring and IT DID NOTHING!!!! After it bottomed out on a 1 foot drop and I almost killed myself and made my front wheel into a taco, After showing them the damage and my horribly bruised and battered body my lbs said they called answer and they didnt think that this shock was good for me after making me feel like a moron when I was trying to tell them all along that it bottomed out way to easy and it flexed so much my tire would rub on the arc that it almost sent me over the handle bars..They also whynned and cryed when they found out I installed the firm spring on my own,The reason I installed it myself is beacause they wanted to charge me 20.00 to install it and it only takes about 3 minutes to do how stupid is that and thats after I payed over retail for the spring!!!!!!!! So now they offered me a manitou elite or a black at there price and the elite has terrible reviews to, I dont know what to do!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Clint
a Cross Country Rider
from NZ Date Reviewed: June 29, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Whaka Forest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Cromoly staunchions, Lockout, Not too heavy, RA actually does keep the abrasive local dirt off, Good features for the price.
Weaknesses:
Rebound adjustment doesn't seem to do much.
Similar Products Used:
Rockshox Indy C, old Judy XC.
Bike Setup:
Ancient Specialised Ground Control
Bottom Line:
Better performance than my old Judy XC's and built to be far more durable.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
D Fitzgerald
a Weekend Warrior
from Weston, FLA, USA Date Reviewed: June 27, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Nothing I can think of
Weaknesses:
I should be getting my 3rd shock, in less than a month, from Manitou/Answer hopefully soon. In my previous post, the 1st had to be replaced. The 2nd Axel Super I got from Manitou was the lower travel (80 mm) and after 1 ride, the seals broke and had to be replaced once again.
Bike Setup:
Stock '03 Specialized FSR Disc Stumpjumper
Bottom Line:
Avoid this shock !!!!!!!!!!!
It's a piece of crap and because of that my bike has been in the LBS store since I got it 3 weeks ago. And I'm talking about flat south Florida here. I can't imagine how it would perform elsewhere.
Both Specialized and Manitou should be kicked in the a$$ for this shock
At least the LBS (Megacycle) has negotiated an upgraded shock for the bike. Hopefully it's better, else I'll buy something else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stephen
a Cross Country Rider
from East Lansing, Michigan, USA Date Reviewed: June 24, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere in Windham County, VT
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came with 2003 Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Disc
Strengths:
I would say it's cheap, but it came with my bike. Overall it is easily adjustable and seems to react to things well. I haven't had it apart yet, so I don't know how that will be. The disc mounts are good, the fork doesn't pick up too much dirt, and even in the mud I haven't had a problem with it yet. The mini-boots get rid of trail grit pretty well.
Weaknesses:
The stock spring sucks, and getting a replacement spring is a pain in the rear! Also, you need to get the Manitou grease gun to lube it using the 'micro-ports' - not great.
Similar Products Used:
Crappy old RockShox forks.
Bike Setup:
Everything stock, and my Fox Float RL rear is awesome.
Bottom Line:
I would probably not buy this fork if I was in the market for one, but I certainly wouldn't avoid buying a bike with one on it (face it, I didn't avoid buying mine). A fork is easily replaceable, so the bottom line is that it's not bad, but good luck getting a replacement spring.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tedd
a Cross Country Rider
from Butte, MT Date Reviewed: June 23, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Nez Pierce
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Stock on Bike
Strengths:
Base to attach my front wheel and brake.
Weaknesses:
Continually auto-shifts from dampening to lock-out - not to your advantage when riding a technical descent and the Axel turns rigid. The little blue plastic knob - I know what it's for but I'm not really sure what it does.
Bike Setup:
Were talking forks here....
Bottom Line:
If you can spin, don't buy it. If your not sure what spin is, this fork may be perfect for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
D Fitzgerald
a Weekend Warrior
from Weston, FL, USA Date Reviewed: June 20, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Fork came with the bike and it has been back to the LBS every since
Weaknesses:
Fork was a pogo stick as soon as I got it on the trail. The compression wasn't right and it sounded and felt off. Adjusting the rebound didn't help. It felt loose. Had to replace the fork.
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi Z.5 on Fisher Sugar
Bike Setup:
'03 Specialized Stumpjumper stock
Bottom Line:
I read the reviews for the Stumpjumper and decided to buy the bike anyhow. I was nervous but the test ride seemed OK. After a .5 hour trail ride, the problems began. The reviews are right as the shock has problems. Further I think Answer has a quality issue. I'm upgrading the spring like Tony. If that doesn't work I'll go to another fork. If it comes with your bike, ask for an upgrade first. Look for another fork in your $ range if you have a choice.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Drew
a Cross Country Rider
from Amherst, NH, USA Date Reviewed: June 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
I like them all!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Nault's
Strengths:
Absorbs everything, adjustable, easy to maintain, disc mounts are good, very attractive, matches my setup perfect; baby blue
Weaknesses:
spring looses 'spring' over time. needs a heavier spring to accomidate the 100mm travel
Similar Products Used:
manitou black super air
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher Hoo Koo E Koo (stock)
Bottom Line:
Good overall shock, great for medium to light XC! Absorbs is all! Easy to adjust and maintain. Hard to find a shop that knows about this speific shock though (like how to service it the right way) I reccomend this shock for its price!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony
a Cross Country Rider
from USA Date Reviewed: May 24, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Came with the bike, lock outs. Micro ports. Easy to replace spring.
Weaknesses:
Weak spring, Plastic spring cap (threads).
Bike Setup:
03' Stumpjumper FSR.
Bottom Line:
The preload adustment is a compromise, it's so it can be used by riders of wider weight and type of use can dial in their shock. If you're outside its range than so is the shocks ability to properly perform. I chose the firm ride spring kit #85-4828 (yellow paint on it). it is the next spring up from the stock Medium ride spring (Red). It comes packed with a black aluminium cap and no provision for the preload adjustment which is no longer needed being that you now have the correct spring. The new spring is 30mm longer than the stock spring which means more spring action. The new spring performed as it was desiged to VERY WELL. The bike feels so much better now, no more nose dives, it stays in control much better as the steering geometry stays within its parameter. I never gave it a thought that the stock spring staring me in the face was only held in place by the old plastic nut cap, very unnerving. BL. if it came with the bike or if you're planning on buying this or any fork for that matter think about setting it up correctly. Good fork for the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mack
a Weekend Warrior
from new haven ct usa Date Reviewed: January 16, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
bob skinners ski and sport (nh)
Strengths:
soaks up all bumps and dampining is aswemome. great fork and easy to add fluid
Weaknesses:
spring isnt heavy enough and shops dodnt know how to do conversion from 80mm to 100mm
Bike Setup:
giant raineer stock
Bottom Line:
good fork overall but needs to be in 100mm with a heavyier spring but fine if u do light x country
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
alan marchman
a Weekend Warrior
from the 'ville,FL Date Reviewed: January 12, 2003
Favorite Trail:
UWF
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
oem equip
Strengths:
smooth travel
Weaknesses:
none(yet)
Similar Products Used:
rock shox judy tt
Bike Setup:
03 specialized rockhopper fsr-avid discs, sun rhyno, tioga platforms,carbon fiber nic-nacs, etc.
Bottom Line:
so far the fork is sweet,soaking up terrain like a sponge- haven't needed any customer service yet-so i don't know about that one(not that i would anyway)i recommend this fork for any one looking for very light freeriding or urban riding or a nice plush xc ride(if you want a freeride fork check into a Marzochi Shiver-holy cow!!)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Angel
a Cross Country Rider
from Miami Date Reviewed: January 10, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
O.E.M. component
Strengths:
Adjustability, disc brake compatible, customer support from Answer/Manitou.
Weaknesses:
Bike shops' unfamiliarity with length conversion procedures. Lack of product information and serviceing which should accompany owners manual at time of purchase.
Similar Products Used:
n/a
Bike Setup:
03' Giant Rainier, w/Avid disc,Thudbuter susp. seat post and Sanfu platform pedals.
Bottom Line:
Up date to my last review. Dampening unit was replaced with a new unit just after Thanksgiving. Very noticable change in the ride now, fork is very responsive to terrain conditions from rut's to moderate down hill drops. The Axel Super seems to be soaking up just about what ever I encounter on the trails. The customer support rep's along with the tech. support dept. at Manitou were extremely helpful and patient with all my questions and concerns regarding the Axel Super. With all said and done, I am now very satisfied with the performance of my Axel Super and I feel that it would be a very good compliment if included as an O.E.M. component with the major MTB manufacturers, or even if your just upgrading your existing forks and on a budget. Thumbs up to Answer/Manitou for great products, until the next review happy trailing and remember "hydrate or die" see ya...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Angel
a Cross Country Rider
from Miami, FL Date Reviewed: December 4, 2002
Up date to my last review on 03' Manitou AXEL SUPER. F.Y.I. for those of you who my want to service your own fork, caution with dampening valve assembly when removing. Manitou rep. informed me that the die cast threaded lug w/ internal 8mm hex located at the lower end of assy. is a left hand thread(NOT A STANDARD RIGHT HAND)like most fasteners. He explained how most bike shops are not completely informed on this or over look this in their repair manuals. Mine most likely got damaged when I had the fork converted from 80mm to 100mm at the bike shop at the time of purchase. Manitou explained this seems to be a common problem. Another thing I found out, if a warranty repair is done through Manitou you as the customer can request your LBS to have the repair item(s) shipped 2nd day instead of the standard overground 5 to 10 wrk'g day deal and Manitou will pick- up the freight. I must mention that Manitous' customer service rep. was very helpful in explaining the hardware make up and the reasons for certain material choices in the manufacturing for which I had concerns about. There may still be hope for this fork. Hopefully my next review will have a significant amount of riding time behind it and less repair issues, see ya.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Angel
a Cross Country Rider
from Miami Date Reviewed: December 2, 2002
Favorite Trail:
anything in driving distance
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
O.E.M. component
Strengths:
Preload adj. / dampening adj. 80mm - 100mm travel convertible. Preload upgradable w/ spring kit from Manitou.
Weaknesses:
Most local bike shops are not familiar with repairs or 80mm - 100mm conversion for AXEL SUPER. Manitou needs to supply (LBS) with info on these forks so buyers' can maintain them and set adjustment according to riding styles.
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox judy TT, Manitou six
Bike Setup:
03'Giant Rainier w/avid disks
Bottom Line:
Fork seemed to work well in moderate trail riding but, did not get the chance to break it in. Seems that the fluid flow dampening valve unit in the right side axel tube failed just before Thanksgiving. The problem started when I noticed the 2mm flat head screw that holds adj. lever to assembly had fallen out. LBS tech discovered threads in the actuator rod were stripped. Quick fix was to retap rod for a 6-32 screw until new assembly arrives. repair worked well but, adj. lever was still binding. I later discovered that the original problem was that the dampening assembly housing has a die cast metal threaded lug w/ an internal 8mm hex that is crimped at the bottom end of the housing. This lug threads into the lower axel tube which keeps the assembly in place. The lug on my unit sheared off which in turn pulled the 2mm flat head screw out. I've since contacted Manitou but, no reply as of yet regarding this type of part failure. When I was trying to adj. dampening the whole assy. was rotating in the axel tube. Sorry for the long bio. but, if your flat head screw just falls out from the dampening lever, suspect similar damage to your 2003 Manitou Axel Super. Being a new fork for 03' lets hope that it's not plaged with more problems.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BJB
a Weekend Warrior
from Winter Park, FL, USA Date Reviewed: December 1, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Loco Motion
Strengths:
Preload Adjustment, Fluid Damping(Rebound), Stiffness, Suspension works great.
Weaknesses:
"Reverse Arch Design" with wide tires. Slight oil leakage.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
2003 Giant Warp DS-1. Removed the platform pedals that come with the bike for my old reliable Sakae Lowfats with toe clips. All else stock.
Bottom Line:
This fork performs very well, has Preload and Fluid Damping(Rebound) Adjustments, and adjustable travel from 80mm(3.1in) to 100mm(3.9in) of travel.
The only problem is with the "Reverse Arch Design". I got this fork stock on my bike with WTB MotoRaptor 2.24in wide tires and they are rubbing against the Arch when the wheel is under lateral pressure.
I don't know if this is more the fault of Giant for specing this fork with this wide a tire or of Answer's for creating a design that does not allow this wide a tire and not making it more well known. With that said...
Do not use this fork with any tires wider than 2.0 - 2.24. The lateral movement of the wheel will cause the tire to rub against the Arch at times while riding. Other than that the fork works very well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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