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Submitted by
Michael Murphy
a Cross Country Rider
from Mankato, MN
Date Reviewed: March 6, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$80.00 | | Strengths: | ? | | Weaknesses: | Didn't work like a suspension fork. | | Similar Products Used: | RockShox Quadra 10, Judy XC | | Bike Setup: | North Star Estrella | | Bottom Line: | Is this a suspension fork? I am not really that picky when it comes to suspension forks; I still ride an old Indy XC on my Privateer, but this was almost the worst fork I ever had. The Quadra 10 might've been worse; I couldn't really tell the difference. Maybe I got one with gorilla springs or something, but I couldn't tell if there was any travel at all. It was like a soft-tail frame; it just barely took the edge off. Maybe. Or not. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paco Ramirez
a Cross Country Rider
from México City
Date Reviewed: November 4, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Xochimilco-Tepoztlan | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$79.00 | | Purchased At: | jensonUSA.com | | Strengths: | it's a good fork, considering the price, it weights only 3.4 lb and works very good | | Weaknesses: | no damping, adjust knobs and isn't strong at all | | Similar Products Used: | SR SUNTOUR MG-90 | | Bike Setup: | alubike snake 00, LX/XT components | | Bottom Line: | it's a very good fork for XC competition but don't force it too much beucase the magnesium lowers can be broken after some jumps so don´t use it for freestyle | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lloyd
a Cross Country Rider
from Boise
Date Reviewed: August 1, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | that one over thar... | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$79.00 | | Purchased At: | JensonUSA.com | | Strengths: | it was cheap | | Weaknesses: | no rebound adjust
blown seal after just 200 miles
bottoms out too easily
preload is difficult to adjust
| | Similar Products Used: | 1998 Judy T2 (weak)
1998 SID
1998 Judy XC
2000 SID XC | | Bike Setup: | Ritchey tubing singlespeed frame, LX brakes, Avid levers, XT cranks, Time pedals, Kore stem and post | | Bottom Line: | You get what you pay for, I suppose. I didn't expect much for $79, but a blown seal after 200 miles is kind of lame. Plus, I have to buy the firm springs because, even with the preload adjusted all the way in, the fork bottomed out on all but the smallest stuff. I feels relatively stiff, but does have some front to back flex. Weight-wise it's not too bad for a 1998 (non-air) fork, but it does not feel nearly as good as my 2000 SID. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Crazy Bit$#
a Weekend Warrior
from Upstate NY
Date Reviewed: March 27, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | -Great adjustability
-Decent stiffness
-Light
-Better than '00 SX(I tested it--THEY SUCK) | | Weaknesses: | -Had to upgrade to heavier springs
-I BUSTED IT--my fault,not the fork's
-Nowhere near as durable as a Marzocchi | | Similar Products Used: | Marzocchi Z2 Atom 80(best short-travel fork EVER MADE),Rockshox SID XC(piece of dog crap),Manitou X-Vert Super(one of the best forks Manitou ever made) | | Bike Setup: | This fork was on my first mountain bike--a '98 Stumpy M2.I loved that bike to bits,but I was not kind to it.I busted the fork(as well as put a HUGE crack in the frame)off a 6-foot drop.After that,I went out and replaced it with a '00 Chameleon(IT RULES!!!) | | Bottom Line: | I am a completely stupid,6-foot,200-lb destroyer of equipment,so I figured this fork wasn't going to last very long.I was wrong..it survived a YEAR of thrashing(repeated 3-4 foot drops,stairs,high-speed curb impacts)until I finally fragged it on a 6-foot drop(!)which also f#$ked up the frame.
The lowers were literally busted in half,and both staunchions broke loose from the crown.This was obviously COMPLETELY my fault,so I can't complain about that...
As far as the fork itself,it was great.It has more adjustibility than you could possibly need,it was pretty plush once I threw in the heavy springs(before I had to run high preload),and it was light.It was an awesome fork.I had to lube it twice and install new bushings,but otherwise it was all good.
No,it isn't as durable as my Marzocchi Z2 Atom(which actually took that very same 6-foot drop and SURVIVED,amazingly enough)or as stiff,but for most purposes it's still a good fork.4 chilies. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark downs
a
from vic
Date Reviewed: September 5, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | The dump | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$110.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike shop | | Strengths: | Lots of plush,ajustment,looks,You get what you pay for. | | Weaknesses: | Light springs. | | Similar Products Used: | marzzochi z.5 and RST crap!! | | Bike Setup: | 99 kona hahanna with: Tektro breaks,tioga dh 2.3,rokko 2.4 tires. 98 Manitou sx shimano stuff.
| | Bottom Line: | Good shocks If your not that heavy and you want smooth landings On wheelie drops. I haven't Even had these for a month yet and there one one of the best I have ridi'n on.It Has tons of room for to tires I can fit a 2.4 on tne front and it doesn't rub.More ajustment than you will ever need( I love the damping).
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Barry
a Cross Country Rider
from EDMOND,OKLA>
Date Reviewed: August 20, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$109.00 | | Purchased At: | supergo | | Strengths: | Price, weight,Performance | | Weaknesses: | Broke my internal damper on a three foot drop off.I guess I shouldnt gripe about it considering what I paid for it. | | Similar Products Used: | rst junk, spyder,judy C junk | | Bike Setup: | 98 alum. rockhopper, xt hollow tec ,derailers, rock shock seat post , time peddles | | Bottom Line: | Next time Ill go marzocci | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Xavery M
a Cross Country Rider
from PL
Date Reviewed: June 17, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | durability
progresiveness makes it nearly unbottomable
colour | | Weaknesses: | could have some more travel
could be more stiff
adjustment should turn without aid of a wrench | | Similar Products Used: | tested RS,RST,Marzocchi | | Bike Setup: | Marin HT with lots of hardcore componentry | | Bottom Line: | Good value for the money + durability = decent fork
/but I would prefer Bomber Z1/ | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Neal Barger
a Cross Country Rider
from Gainesville, FL, USA
Date Reviewed: March 18, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Any trail that won't get me arrested | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | This product offers kick ass stability, awesome ride, and makes my Gary Fisher look super slik!!!!!!!!!!! | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | RST-381
Rock shox judy xc
| | Bike Setup: | I've got a Gary Fisher Marlin frame with all SRAM 9.0 components, tioga comp tires, KORE stem, Bontrager
bars, Easton seat post, Schwinn seat, SPIN wheels
(great investment) and my manitou SX's allow me to leave all my friends eatin' dust!! | | Bottom Line: | Why spend 400$ on judys or Bombers when Manitous work just as well? | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Wisconsin
Date Reviewed: February 18, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Kettle Moraine Forest | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Light weight, good looks, smooth dampening | | Weaknesses: | So inexpensive....makes you worry | | Similar Products Used: | Rock Shox Jett T2, Suntour hunk 'O crap, | | Bike Setup: | Giant with many upgrades, 2.125 Vitoria front tire 2.0 Vittoria rear | | Bottom Line: | Fork is very smooth (even when topping out) more adjustable than most ever need, and contrary to popular opinion, has PLENTY of room for 2.1 tires (I use a 2.125 front). Price from supergo can't be beat ($109) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
butch
a Weekend Warrior
from vermont
Date Reviewed: January 31, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Very durable light for a non air fork low maintenance | | Weaknesses: | tire clearance is somewhat limited | | Similar Products Used: | Rock Shox | | Bike Setup: | stumpjumper with 9.0sl shifting, lx hubs, sun cr18 rims, lx crank, xt front der, 9.0sl rear der, xtr cass, xt vee, bracer susp seat post, specilized team tires, kore stem, ird ea70 bar, wtb ahead. | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow up on an earlier review. I have been using this fork for 1 year now and have experienced absolutly no problems. It is a great xc fork. There is no disc mount so all you disco fans beware. As I stated above tire clearance is limited, although my new dirt control and master tires (1.9) fit ok so it is a non issue with me, but could be for someone who likes to run a 2.1 up front. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lucho Sanhueza
a Racer
from santiago
Date Reviewed: September 22, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
huinganal | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Had a good strenght if you use it with a good aheadset like raceface or chris king. | | Weaknesses: |
maybe nothing !! | | Similar Products Used: |
bomber z.3
headshock moto 80
fatty sl
judy 100
indy xc
judy xc
judy sl
rockshox boxxer | | Bike Setup: |
I use it in a Caad 3 frame with full XTR and some 9.0 sram components | | Bottom Line: | is cheap, smooth, easy to ride and perfect for a racer of cross country or cyclocross. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adam
a Cross-Country Rider
from Hudson, Ohio
Date Reviewed: September 22, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Vulture's Knob | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Pretty light, great looks, gives a really smooth ride, never bottoms out, and has been virtually maintainance free. | | Weaknesses: |
None that I can think of | | Similar Products Used: |
Rock Shox Indy XC | | Bike Setup: |
Giant Yukon frame, Manitou SX | | Bottom Line: | This fork rocks! It looks sweet and it performs! I got it on sale for $120 and its turned out to be the best bargain of my life. So if you want a great fork and don't have the cash for a XVert or SID, hook up with one of these babies. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Simon
a Cross-Country Rider
from Hull, Quebec
Date Reviewed: August 28, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Parc de la Gatineau | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
light weight
light price
stiff | | Weaknesses: |
strange noise | | Similar Products Used: |
Rock Shox Judy C
Rock Shox Indy C
Rock Shox Jett C | | Bike Setup: |
Trek 6500 with a manitou sx | | Bottom Line: | why spend more, this is a great xc fork | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Russell Barlow
a Racer
from La Grande OR
Date Reviewed: August 16, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Brickyards | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
This fork is cheap lightweight and works well it is realiable and durable and i think it works great. | | Weaknesses: |
It is too narrow and will not fit a widetire it also has too little travel | | Similar Products Used: |
Palmer FS-TI
X-vert R
Indy C
Judy XC
SX-R
Indy XC
Judy T2 with englunds
Quadra 5
RST 145
Marzocchi xc 700 | | Bike Setup: |
Klein Pulse Pro
ESP 9.0 | | Bottom Line: | Good quality fork | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gavin
a Weekend Warrior
from NY
Date Reviewed: August 16, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
any kick @$$ trail | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Strong easily adjusted nearly maintanance free (so far) | | Weaknesses: |
not much | | Similar Products Used: |
rock shox (the the self named one) Manitou pro | | Bike Setup: |
99'xt setup titec hellbent handlebar nuke proof stem mavic 221 UV | | Bottom Line: | I have the '97 version it is really great haven't had a problem with it yet really nice plush when you need it and VERY VERY VERY rarely bottoms out. This fork is great | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JimBo
a Weekend Warrior
from NJ
Date Reviewed: August 4, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Any that havnt been wrecked | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Strength.
Looks.
Crown.
Brake Arch.
Beefy. | | Weaknesses: |
Must be an oxymoron with this Manitou. | | Similar Products Used: |
RST 381 DH.
Rock Shox JUDY XL(c).
Rock Shox JUDY C.
Rock Shox Indy C. | | Bike Setup: |
Giant Y-Bike.
Manitou in front.
Chris King Headset.
GTM Shock in rear.
Spin Wheels.
XT Brakeset.
XT Derailluers.
LX Shifters/BB/Crankset.
DX Pedals. | | Bottom Line: | This fork replaced my old RST 381 DH that came stock with the bike. I like it a lot and it works great. Looks good with Shock Boots and eve better w/ out them on. Bought them for cheap, racing in a few days with them and they are very strong for a very strong 130 pound 5'10 rider. Lots of abouse and no wear yet. Awesome. 5 Flamers to Manitou. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bikie mon
a Cross-Country Rider
from adirondacks (NY)
Date Reviewed: June 30, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
This is a nice fork for the money, every thing works great on it no problems so far | | Weaknesses: |
. only thing i don't like is that you can't adjust the rebound unless you take the fork apart, and that is a pain in the | | Similar Products Used: |
headshok and Rock Shox judy xc | | Bike Setup: |
specialized stmpjumper, race face, xtr, thomson, | | Bottom Line: | over all a really good fork and it is plush | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Weird Beard
a Weekend Warrior
from Smalltown, PA
Date Reviewed: May 9, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
my girlfriends happy trail | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
somewhat light, looks cool, pretty strong, feels nice, $119 at Supergo(i dont know why, because they advertise it for $139) | | Weaknesses: |
squeaky, preload knob doesnt do anything, have to take it apart to get to some of the adjustments. | | Similar Products Used: |
Ballistic 105(dont laugh. it came stock on my bike), old Headshock(1994), old Quadra(1993) | | Bike Setup: |
Mongoose A40(yep. the one at Wal-Mart) totally decked out(CODA, Ringle, Mavic, XT, XTR, SRAM ESP 9.0, | | Bottom Line: | good fork with a great price. however, if i were looking for another cheap fork, i would spend the extra $40 and get the fully, externally adjustable SX-R.
thats the bottom line | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a Cross-Country Rider
from Inyokern
Date Reviewed: April 27, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Singletrack | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Smooth & fairly plush | | Weaknesses: |
Fork must be disassembled to adjust rebound and compression damping. A little heavy. | | Similar Products Used: |
97 Manitou FS Ti, 99 Rockshock SID SL | | Bike Setup: |
Cannondale Caad 3 hardtail | | Bottom Line: | Great fork for the price. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nicolas Rocca
a Cross-Country Rider
from Santiago, CHILE
Date Reviewed: April 24, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Guitreras | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
More strenght than it ?? | | Similar Products Used: |
Is better than a Judy XC
Is very much better than a RST mozo and better than a Marzocchi Bomber. | | Bike Setup: |
I use a Trek and it fit perfectly, the only problem was the ahead direction set. | | Bottom Line: | Is a very good fork, for who want to make cross country, on the weekend of in races. If you had the oportunity buy it !!. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Xavery M
a Cross-Country Rider
from PL
Date Reviewed: April 23, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
plush,not so heavy,quite stiff,nice color | | Weaknesses: |
adjustment doesn't seem to work | | Similar Products Used: |
demo'ed: 99 Judy C, RST Mozo Pro,Indy XC | | Bottom Line: | Bought it for the lower price and I am very satisfied. The color matches my polished aluminium Marin frame.
As yet it seems to be nearly flawless...
Great product (consider that I was riding a rigid before).
Will give it another review in next 6 months,
then 'll see. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a Cross-Country Rider
from Rochester, NY
Date Reviewed: April 21, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Rattlesnake Point | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Very durable, yet lightweight fork. Handles everything from rocks and ruts to four feet of air off the local half-pipe. Oh yeah, the white/orange color looks good w/ my orange bike. | | Weaknesses: |
rebound adjustment on the bottom broke off after catching it on a tree stump. | | Similar Products Used: |
Rock Shox Indy SL, Manitou Spyder R, Rock Shox JETT. | | Bike Setup: |
Mongoose MGX front suspension, 98'Manitou SX TPC. | | Bottom Line: | Awesome fork, liked it more than the RockShox Jett and Indy SL and the Manitou Spyder R. I have one complaint, they could make the rebound adjustment on the bottom be indented like the RockShox so it wont break off when you snag it on something, other than that, it's great! Nuff said, ADIOS! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Angry Matt
a Cross-Country Rider
from Bolingbrook IL
Date Reviewed: April 16, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
palos | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Very good shock. lightweight, durable. | | Weaknesses: |
none | | Similar Products Used: |
quad 5 manitou pro, manitou 4 | | Bike Setup: |
specialized stumpjumper, 98 sx tpc | | Bottom Line: | for the person who claims to know bikes, ya know the one that complained about the shock bottoming out and the racer of 6 years. What are you doing taking your fork to a bike shop??? if you know your stuff you can do it on your own. too many people bash products that they have no idea wtf they are talking about. if it bottoms out, get HARDER ELASTOMERS! ok for all the idiots who broke the fork, it isnt made for downhilling or jumping off a 20 story building. this is a tuff fork with great plush dampening and durable materials. nuff said. buy manitou or die. if i could give it 10 flaming lava rocks i would | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
johnnyb
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Anselmo
Date Reviewed: April 15, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
freakin Mt. Tamalpais! | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Well, it is an active and plush ride when dialed in. I think I got it worked out, I'm 6'3 and 220 lbs and using the red elastomers. I've put about 700 miles on it now with only one re-greasing of the cylinders this winter. Definitely takes hits well and works. | | Weaknesses: |
Now, the preload cap (ride) adjuster froze up in the first month of winter riding, but the damping cap (left) still turns, but I'm not sure if it does anything. Took the caps off for cleaning and adjustment and the preload cap was slightly broken, the cap adjuster had moved independent of the cap itself for fine-tuning but the guide channel for the adjuster was broken on the outer cap, and the cap itself won't turn anymore, even after disassembly and cleaning. So I put the cleaned cap back on and while turning it back on, the threads of the cap are either not aligned anymore or stripping.{AHHHH!) But I was able to torque it back down all the way and it works as usual. I called the LBS where I bought the bike and they said they would order a new cap and inspect for free. That's nice, but it has been over a month now and Answer hasn't sent a new cap out yet. What's up? I can still ride and have no problems with the action or feel, but if I ever want to replace the elastomers I'm going to need that cap. Taking the lower sleeves off for maintenance don't require any adjustment of the cap.
Has anybody have a problem like this and can e-mail me? Appreciate it. | | Similar Products Used: |
Rock Shock quad | | Bike Setup: |
98 Specialized M2 pro, Manitou SX | | Bottom Line: | I think it works, takes hits well. But customer service is suspect. Adjuster cap design sucks, take a look if you dare, flimsy. I'm going to give it 3 chilis, because overall, I don't feel to good about the product. But it works. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
joe
a Weekend Warrior
from fargo
Date Reviewed: April 15, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
strong | | Weaknesses: |
weak | | Bottom Line: | ok | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
some guy
a weekend warrior
from Cali
Date Reviewed: March 9, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
My 97 Manitou SX blew the cartridge in two months then the arch cracked in half in less than a year. They kindly sent me a 98 SX TPC. That arch cracked in less than a year. They want to repair the 98 but have no replacement arches in stock. The 99 looks much better but still has the springs in only one leg. They need to put springs on both sides. Plus it would be smart to make one side have an oil bath for compression and an oil bath on the other side for rebound damping. Are you listening, Answer Products? TPC works okay but not fabulous. Answer has been cool so far, but I expect the basic structure of the fork to last for a few years. If they don't set me up with a 99, I'll probably switch to Marzocchi. I used to tell everyone to buy Answer Products. Now I'm not so sure. Maybe part of the problem is that I ride hard most days, love to jump, and do a lot of front wheel landings. Oh well. | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tors RASBORN
a weekend warrior
from Dallas, Texas
Date Reviewed: March 3, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
Well, this is all very interesting people, but let's just speak plain English so everybody can understand the simple opinion, and carry on cycling ! There seems to be an awful lot of 'simpltons' who are either so mis-informed, mis-treat the product (no offence for those over-weight folks - 200+ Ibs), abusive or simply 'thick'...in the end, it is a personal opinion and taste.After some chats with people at shops, and reading these rather 'contradicting' reviews, despite being price-motivated, I still decided that the '98 Answer Manitou TPC suspension fork would be the best buy...I still want quality and performance. So, after UNIVERSALBICYCLES.COM let me down in simple communication skills...non-existant...I went to SUPERGO.COM and bought 2 forks at $139 each, amongst other upgrades for our bikes, two weeks ago. I am very impressed. They are very smooth over anything I throw it at, as I am a demanding rider with lots of stamina. Point:6ft, 146 Ibs, lean and mean Swede who trains 8-10 hours of Tai Chi(WU)and Kung Fu(My Jhong Law Horn) every week, not to mention the 4-3 hours anaerobic free-weight training too. I digress. The point is, take these reviews with a couple of pinches of salt...lightly that is! It is only a guide. It is disconcerting how people can abuse equipment...thing do break!My cheers to those who mentioned, and I do agree, that it is the skilled, responsible driver that counts, in the end, non? My DiamondBack Apex OS 1990 frame, with 1998 XT RF shifters, 1999 LX V brakes, Mavic rims, 1994 PACE chainrings (equivalent to Titanium in strength), and now Manitou SX-TPC forks, may not be the lightest at 29 Ibs...but try and keep up! A final word, just have fun and be smart, and quit filling up these fine review pages with useless babble and marketing hype. Do the Ride thing! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris
a cross-country rider
from
Date Reviewed: February 15, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
HELLO DALLAS TEXAS THIS IS A 98SX REVIEW WAKE UP. QUIT DREDGING UP THE PAST.
GET OVER IT NO PRODUCT IS PERFECT. BUT THE 98SX IS GREAT!!! I'VE OWNED MINE
FOR OVER A YEAR AND HAVEN'T DONE A THING TO IT OTHER THAN LUBE THE
DUST SEALS. THIS FORK IS AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Richard Styron
a cross-country rider
from Branson, MO
Date Reviewed: February 15, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had this fork for about as month, and ridden about 200 miles, and so far it thoroughly outperforms my fork of yesteryear, Rock Shox Quadra 21r. I got it for 250 out of Nashbar (boy did that piss off my boss at the shop I work at.) The damping is infinitely more apparent than on my old fork, or my brother's Judy. It is fairly stiff, not like my friend's Girvin, but a lot better than any other fork I have used. So far I haven't had to rebuild it, and the oil hasn't started to break down or get dirty, so I am happy. It fits well on my DBR Vertex, and has boosted my confidence level enough that I can do 4 foot drops at my local motocross park (see trail reviews for chadwick motocross park in missouri). It soaks up everything well, and came properly damped so I haven't had to mess with it overtly. To people who are worried about weight: If If they were too heavy, would they be put on Kleins? And how come the brake arch in the picture isn't like mine? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Butch
a cross-country rider
from Vermont
Date Reviewed: February 2, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
This shock is excellent! It is a great cross country fork with excellent dampning. The TPC rocks!!! A word to the wise, if you tend to disassemble the shock often to re-adjust the rebound and compression be careful not to over torque the 6MM bolt on the bottom of the TPC side. If you do you will know it and it could tend to ruin your day. Voice of experience? I'll never tell. Answer has a new hollow bolt that is both lighter and less apt to do damage.
Five red hot chillis for this puppy!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
richard
a cross-country rider
from UK
Date Reviewed: January 25, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
My 99 Manitou SX's rock. They're way better than my friends Judys and they cost less. The fork is smooth, rebound is well controlled and now externally adjustable, there's LOADS of mud clearance, it works well on both small and large hits. TPC works great for me and the grease ports make regular maintenance a cinch. I was a committed RS rider (I've owned Mag 20, Mag 21 and Judy XC) until I tried this fork. I'm not saying I would rule RS out in future, but I think the new SX is a great fork. I give it 5 stars for performance and value | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rich Sack
a cross-country rider
from Orange County
Date Reviewed: December 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This fork is the best I've used. Better than any judy with a spring kit. It has REAL dampening(although this model must be opened to adjust the compression and dampening). A judy won't allow you to adjust dampening and compression seperately and you can never make any rock shock feel like itis even dampened. If you set this fork up right it rules and it weighs only 3.2 lbs(with an aluminum steerer tube). The sw tends to be more reliable than the other higher end models because it has it has no external adjusters with seals to leak. Set it up once and you'll love it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a racer
from PA
Date Reviewed: December 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a Manitou SX fork on my training bike, and it works okay. Although it does need cleaned and lubed fairly often, the fork does well on the trail. I've had a semi-blown cartrige in my fork for almost 6 mos now, and Manitou can kiss my ass if they think I am buying a new one. I've talked to them several times and they keep telling me it's not blown, and that it just needs repaired. I work at a shop, and I have completly taken it apart and put it back together the way the manual says to, and the cartrige still leaks. Give in Manitou, your cartriges aren't imune to blowing!!!!!!!!!!!! I giv a four for the fork minus
3 for SHITY customer service. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sean
a racer
from Orange County, CA
Date Reviewed: November 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This fork, in a few words, is an absolute PIECE OF CRAP. I'm referring to the 97 Manitou-SX fork. Much like my 97 Answer Manitou HT frame, it lasted LESS THAN A YEAR. I've had CARBON and ALUMINUM bikes last 5 YEARS, but not an Answer product. Not to mention, I can relate to Dallas, Texas who posted on this product...I broke that $1,200 Answer frame after 8 mos., and after a FULL MONTH of calling trying to get a replacement, they offered my ONLY $400 credit, ONLY at the store I bought it from originally! As for this FORK...it weighs a TON, it TOPS OUT loudly, BOTTOMS OUT constantly, suffers from STICTION, and in cold weather, it's like being on a RIGID fork. I wouldn't put the SX fork on a HUFFY, because it would make the HUFFY look bad. I'm done with Answer products, except for the Hyperlite bar...but I'm wondering if I should replace that before IT breaks, too...after all, it's 2 mos. old already...I'm moving over to ROCK SHOX. ANSWER is a no-good company, and they won't stand behind their products. Probably because they KNOW they're trash. If you think this SX fork is plush, then you desrve to be riding a HUFFY, MURRAY, or ROYCE-UNION, because you obviously know nothing about real mtn. bikes. 0 chiles was not an option, so I hate to give it 1. Sorry-a$$ forks. AVOID THEM. Ask ANYONE who knows bikes, and theey'll say the same. I'm an expert rider/racer of 6 years, so I have a good idea of what WORKS, and what's CRAP. This fork is CRAP. Nuff said. Bye! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Olavo Rio
a cross-country rider
from Lisbon, Portugal
Date Reviewed: October 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
My first fork, that came with my GT Avalanche LE, was a Rock Shox Judy XC that last only 7 months (!!) because it's magnesium covered legs were completely destroied. One star (or less) for that fork! Than I purchase a Answer Manitou SX and it's really a very good suspension, good in uphill and good in uphill, with easy maintnance, and durability. Sorry about the spelling mistakes! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
james
a cross-country rider
from vancouver,washington
Date Reviewed: October 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have been riding the SX for about 5 months now and have had no comlpaints at all. I've takin it throu some serious downhill,some serious uphill,I've jump it, crashed it and done trials on it. Not one thing has gone wrong. I work at a bike shop so I was able to buy the fork for a cheep cost but the fork is totally worth the money it sells for. anybody that rides this fork will love it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sgraz
a weekend warrior
from Rockland, NY
Date Reviewed: September 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I don't trust any Manitou fork anymore. I used to think they were great but I finally realized they are useless when they break. I broke a Manitou Three 360degrees around inner leg. Broke two Manitou Mach 5 sx and broke the fork leg of an EFC. Sorry manitou but I can't do business anymore, I changed over to ROCK SHOX | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Y.
a downhiller
from Va
Date Reviewed: September 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Hiya all. Considering this is my first shock ever and im pretty happy. Could be better, as in were is the rebound!!! For cryn' out loud. If any one who lives in Northern Virginia knows of a good downhill spot please E-mail me as soon as you can. Now ask your self one question Why do you have to have this be fifty words? Know is that smokin or what!!!!
Gracias,
Chris Y. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
steve
a cross-country rider
from western new york
Date Reviewed: September 3, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
can't speak for this product specifically but i've been riding the mach 5 sx for about 4 years now and have had great luck. recently inserted a pair of speed springs that didn't work for my friend's mag21 and i like those too. i've seen the new preload caps and they're a lot better now than they are on my fork. i think i can put the new knobs on my old fork. as far as reliability, it's awesome. i had a prob with the bolt thingy the bottom of the oil damping side and answer helped me out over the phone and sent me warranty parts no prob. get one through your lbs so you can also take advantage of warranty. highly recommend this sucker. my friend has the 98 ti sx and it is super plush, very smooth. they're nice! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Neil Barnish
a weekend warrior
from England
Date Reviewed: August 27, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Dallas Texas down the page is a fool. I've got a custom spring for my manitou SX fork and now I reckon I've got as plush a fork as the bomber at much less cost. Call Nigel Joy on 01977 555839 (UK) and he can sort out a spring for these already excellent forks for just £15. Basically the spring is exactly suited to your weight and riding style because he custom makes them to order.
If like me, you find the fork ramps up and sits halfway through its travel, get a spring and you'll transform the fork. Look for the review in MBI soon...Email me for more info. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
J Peterman
a cross-country rider
from Ann Arbor, MI
Date Reviewed: August 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had this fork for about a month now, and it's been really great. After a couple of rides it did seem to break in quite a bit, and now I love it. I've really been trying to pound it - jumps, logs, etc - and it has delivered. Of course it would be nice to have the adjustability of the Ti (or even R), but for a more moderate budget (like mine) this was great piece of equipment! For this class of fork I'll bestow 5 en fuego chilis | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Blake Terzini
a cross-country rider
from Japan
Date Reviewed: August 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Who ever said this for sucks Should be draged out into the street and be shot!
because this fork kicks ASS (sorry, I cant standany of these $^%$^&$), I have never felt a better fork! It is plush and works well for the Money ($299) as opposed to the $389 Judy XC (God damn piece of shit!). The only problem is the adjustability, but not bad enough to take a star away. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Stinky
a cross-country rider
from CANADA
Date Reviewed: July 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This fork is really cool. It can be really plush or really firm depending on
how you adjust the preload and compression or rebound damping. only thing i dont like is that it is elastomer sprung so it's not as plush as it could be.
If anyone knows of an upgrade (because of stupid one-leg-springs) could they please email me? I mailed manitou and they didn't even reply.Back to the fork: it's quite solid, as it doesn't flex nearly as much as my EFC did. TPC totally rocks, every fork should have it. I think there's an oil bath or something not just the TPC oil either because both of the legs are slick with oil when i lift up the fork boot. The ride is very controlled, with no funky kickback from the rebound cartridge.I give this product five for durability (cause it hasnt broke or needed (servicing), four for quality of suspension, two for adjustability because you have to take it apart to adjust it, and five for being good for the money. Also it doesn't weigh a ton.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dallas Texas
a downhiller
from Dallas Texas, who woulda thunk it
Date Reviewed: July 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I broke the '97 manitou Sx I had and now I couldn't be happier. I called Answer 10 times during the week I jacked my fork and NEVER ONCE got a return call or E-mail. Lousy pieces of $#!@. I bought a bomber and it feels like I died and went to, um,,,,,, Moab. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
monkeyboy
a cross-country rider
from Redfield, SD
Date Reviewed: July 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This shock just down right kicks @$$ hard. I have ridden on a judy and thought that they where not different at all. They only reason I got the manitou is cause it was cheaper and it looked better on my bike. This shock is one of the best I have ever used and I give I give it 5 falming bananas!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Curt Stevens
a cross-country rider
from Saskatoon, Sask.
Date Reviewed: June 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This shock rocks! I love it. It's sweet on big hits, and can be adjusted for excellent performance going up. Definately a must get. You might want to think about the TI though, for less weight and that lock out thingamajig. Definately one of the best shocks out there for the money. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
wil
a cross-country rider
from Austin, TX
Date Reviewed: June 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Excellent fork, excellent service. The fork works extremely well and is relatively easy to adjust. My prior experience has been with a Judy XC and an Indy SL. Out of the box it worked much better than the Judy. It hasn't even hinted at leaking. I never bothered upgrading the Judy but it dosn't seem the newer Judies are any improvement over the older ones. The stiffness and dampning makes the Indy look like a toy. I've had to contact Manitou twice and both times I got return e-mails the following morning. I had a problem with the pre-load adjuster and I recieved a replacemet cap within three days under warranty after calling them. As I said, excellent service. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Oliver Horne
a cross-country rider
from England
Date Reviewed: June 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Answer Manitou SX 97: They are very good but they are a bit stiff and insensitive. But they are a very good falk and looks good.The fork works really well, soaking up the big hits, filtering out the medium to small ones and letting the tiny bumps through so you can
still 'feel' the trail. The brace collects mud and there's a little flex. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chad Thomas
a
from cross-country rider
Date Reviewed: June 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The best shock I have ever owned!!!!!! I would say mucy better
than a judy xc. The Manitou SX seems to have no sticktion what so ever.
It has loads of travel (70mm), which is morn than enought to get
the job done. The only draw back is you must clean it aleast every
three months or so (only in muddy conditions). Is there any upgrades? Plese let me know!!!! Chad | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Neil Barnish
a weekend warrior
from Muddy hell, UK
Date Reviewed: April 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Like these forks a lot, they're so much better than the old Mach 5's I had a couple of years ago - you get much more for your money these days. But why do Manitou still insist on putting elastomers in all their XC forks when the forks already have great damping (if a little hard to adjust!) ? Springs would be a great upgrade but as only one leg contains the spring medium, where can you get a spring hard enough? Can anyone who knows please email me, thanks.
If you have these forks, remember to spray teflon lube on the seals - it does make the fork noticeably less sticky, and the occasional strip and clean never did a fork any harm. In the case of Manitous it's almost essential, to stop grit shredding them, especially if you live somewhere wet and muddy. Any advice on springs greatly appreciated. 4 chilies (why chilies?!!). Would have been 5 if they came with springs in the first place. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fernando Yague
a cross-country rider
from Peru
Date Reviewed: April 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Specialized Stumpjumper fs Prestige Frame
One of the best and glorious names in mountain biking still has puch to keep going, has considerably more handling , stablily and flexness to get you to the top, a great deal if you consider price and name , but of course sacrificing a little weight , I`ve proven it on dirt and rock ground, and nothing got to fade it`s behavior. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dylan schoeneck
a weekend warrior
from wausau, wi
Date Reviewed: March 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This shock is an exellent all around performance unit. The tpc technology provides exceptional control and handling on all types of terane. It does not give you that poggo stick feeling like other brands without tpc. It soaks up the large dips, pits, mounds and large drop offs and because you can ajust the rebound on the shock it does not wip you back off your sadle. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Vale
a cross-country rider
from Italy
Date Reviewed: March 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The Manitou Sx Ti is great on my Team Marin byke. The fork provides plenty of plush travel for the large rocks tipically of the montain of my country , it has the right amount of travel and doesn't bob on climbs.
I have bought it in middle price and I think that is the best thing that I have bought for my bike.
For me this is the best fork in absolute. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jakob Thyness
a weekend warrior
from Norway
Date Reviewed: February 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the SX as an upgrade for my '97 GT Karakoram, and it improved an already excellent bike no end. It absorbs bumps well, has the right amount of travel, and doesn't bob on climbs. It also improved the steering on my Karakoram, making it much less twitchy. Oh, and the finishing is top-notch as well. Highly recommended. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob Smit
a weekend warrior
from Netherlands
Date Reviewed: February 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Thanks guys, I guess I'm convinced now.
Will buy one on my Specialised Rockhopper A1 with no f.s.
It looks great but mostly rides great, and you think the same having one.
Tried several forks to suit me, and this one is nice and smooth allright.
But I would like more colours to choose from. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
IanH
a cross-country rider
from UK
Date Reviewed: January 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Came stock on my Marin. The fork works really well, soaking up the big hits, filtering out the medium to small ones and letting the tiny bumps through so you can still 'feel' the trail. The brace collects mud and there's a little flex. You could spend more on the lighter SX-R or Ti models but why bother.
A word on damping - you need it. RS Indy's and T2's don't have it - can you spell pogo-stick! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob Turbow
a cross-country rider
from Dallas TX
Date Reviewed: January 12, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got a SX stock on my '98 Marin. After riding the shock for about 3 weeks I had to pull it apart and relube everything! In my opinion it is not worth the money. I give it three points. I've riden an Indy SL and for the cost it's a much better shock. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul Runcy
a cross-country rider
from Austin, TX
Date Reviewed: December 2, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This shock is great! It provides plenty of plush travel for the large rocky steps (6 to 18 limestone ledge dropoffs) that are typical of the Austin Texas hill country. It isn't a downhill shock, but it dosen't slow you down on the climbs either. A great performer for the price. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
TYler CArteR
a cross-country rider
from USY
Date Reviewed: November 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This shoxk bes ok but you best be bying an manitou sx-r fork | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kurt
a cross-country rider
from Raleigh, NC
Date Reviewed: November 14, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
THIS FORK SERIOUSLY RULES. IT DOESN'T BOB A BUNCH WHEN YOU CLIMB AND IT WORKS PRETTY WELL ON THE BUMPS. I JUST WISH IT WAS A BIT MORE PLUSH, BUT I STILL THINK THIS IS THE BEST FORK IN IT'S LEAGUE. I LIKED IT A LOT MORE THAN A JUDY XC, AND MAYBE EVEN A JUDY SL. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Poor Tom
a weekend warrior
from California
Date Reviewed: October 21, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Great product--TPC is a kick butt idea, and it looks great on my Cannondale. | | Overall Rating: |
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