Submitted by
Wild Bill
a Cross Country Rider
from Ridgecrest, Calif Date Reviewed: October 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
All
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$178.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Hey, this fork is awesome,at 4.3 ILb it works on verything, I jumped off of, and the ETA works great, for riding up hills, when you have to lean over the handle bars'
If you can find one of these forks, buy it,I was lucky, Mine is brand new, after 5 years, jest sitting in a bike shop, still in the box, and never used, or cut. I'll buy more from Marzocch, as soon as wear these out,
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George Taylor
a Cross Country Rider
from Saltash, Cornwall, England Date Reviewed: September 6, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Gunni Loop
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$350.00
Strengths:
Incredable long life(3 years of continued abuse), without being serviced(although they desperately need it!). Not to heavy and can handle light freeride. On top of that they are still like butter.
Weaknesses:
They slowly lose air pressure over time, possibly due to damage on one stanction and having not been serviced.
These forks are amazing, all the good things that people say about marzocchi's reliabilty is true. I've used them for light freeride, dirt jumping and even xc racing throughout their life and they still work. They are worth every penny you pay for them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brett Brett
a Downhiller
from s Date Reviewed: August 9, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Helter skelter @mtwashington
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Russ Hayes
Strengths:
good fork for the money
can handle large drops and jumps
stiff, low flex fork
Weaknesses:
within a month of buying the fork i crashed and the ETA knob broke off when the bars twisted. i still havent fixed it yet and i dont plan to because its expensive but the fork still works great
Bike Setup:
2001 Norco Wolverine
Bottom Line:
If you want a good all around fork then get this
it has enough travel that i can jump and do drops with it but it is light too
it is good when i go dirtjumping and ride downhill at mt washington it can also handle street riding like stair drops and stuff. it is a good fork for the money but grind down the ETA knob before it snaps off or ull be sorry. but it dont matter to me cause i never use the stupid ETA anyway.
this is a good fork for the money so get it if u like riding
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tomasz
a Cross Country Rider
from Poland Date Reviewed: May 28, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$500.00
Strengths:
tough, immensly strong, top-performance fork
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
rock shock
Bike Setup:
cannondale killer v900
Bottom Line:
One thing I noticed from the reviews here is that the fork sells much cheaper in US and UK. I paid for it about 500$ at my local shop last year and the price has not gone down until now. It applies to almost all top-grade bike components, which makes buying on ebay the only sensible way to go. Sick country. The guy in the shop, a racer himself, is a finished mechanic, quite skilled at this stuff. He noticed that in that fork you can swap ETA from the left to right leg if you happen to have any air leak. There is no clear reason why it works but the forks seems to accept either setup perfectly, if not better after the swap. Pump it up to the maximum indicated in the manual if you are about 200lbs. In road bike components Campagnolo set the standard which almost kills the competition; it seems that Marzocchi followed suit in mtb.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joshster
a Weekend Warrior
from N. California Date Reviewed: October 21, 2004
Favorite Trail:
eldridge grade
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
craigslist (the best source)
Strengths:
laterally stiff, bulletproof, ETA, bombproof, predictable action, weight, simplicity
Weaknesses:
lack of small bump sensitivity, not quite as smooth as an oil/coil fork
Similar Products Used:
EXR Air, fox vanilla, judy, short-future shock
Bike Setup:
kokopelli
Bottom Line:
This fork is the best fork that I've used. The ETA works like a dream, accentuating the riding position to offset uphill climbs, locking in instead of locking out. The Vanilla has much better small bump sensitivity & is overall more plush, but the marzocchi does enough of a job with the medium & large bumps (where the suspension really matters) to make for it. If I could combine the feel of the vanilla with Marzocchi's ETA, I'd be in Heaven.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
martin
a Weekend Warrior
from vancouver, b.c., canada Date Reviewed: July 4, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Whistler A-Line
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$239.00
Purchased At:
Universal Cycles
Strengths:
Stiff, plush, easily adjustable (except for internal rebound).
Weaknesses:
ETA lever, tire clearance
Similar Products Used:
RS, Manitou
Bike Setup:
Me - on top, bike on the bottom (preferably).
Bottom Line:
Here's my follow-up review after thrashing this fork for a year (with virtually no maintenance). Fork has been performing great - took it through local trails, some urban 3-4 ft flat landings, Whistler bike park abuse (at least 15 full days of up-and-down riding with jumps/drops there(3-4 ft jumps and drops, and I am 200 lbs with gear). Only thing I've had to do is occasionaly check the air pressure and keep the stanchions clean. Air pressure has held the set level for a year now. This fork has delivered way more than what Marz claims it's designed for. I only wish it had greater tire clearance (can't fit anything larger than a 2.7" Mobster), but this is an aggro XC/All mountain fork, not a FR/DH anyway. Great fork, more than enough for the majority of riders out there and you can't beat the price, especially now - getting 120mm of travel on 2004 models.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Primo
a Weekend Warrior
from Torino Date Reviewed: June 29, 2004
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$250.00
Strengths:
Very good performance and strongly built. Almost no flexing and no flutter when hard braking with discs. Not expensive. Very very good ETA so the climbs are easier. Check for correct oil level in forks to make sure of full travel.
Weaknesses:
Rebound control only gives a little change from end to end and there could be more controls but the standard fork is so good but check the oil level from factory as it is sometimes too high and will not give full travel.
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi Z1, Z2, Flylite, Z5, Manitou sx-r, Mars comp, Skareb, Spider, Rochshox everything (not stiff), Girvin, Pace RC36, 38, Ballistic 600, 800, Fox float R, talas.
Bottom Line:
For the price it is just not possible to buy a fork that is anything as good as this. For twice the price it is VERY hard to buy a fork as good as this. So strogly built and you can ride so hard with no worry. The ETA is so good for the climb like a short travel racing fork and then switch off and the fork is 105mm of hammering fork. It turns perfectly. Very good!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dean
a Cross Country Rider
from Slovenia Date Reviewed: June 27, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
ELAN sport shop
Strengths:
Stiff, great price, plush...
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox Jet, Rock Shox Jet T2, Rock Shox Judy XC, Rock Shox Judy SL...
Bike Setup:
2002 Giant ATX 880
Bottom Line:
At first there was some stiction and oil leak so I have to admit that I was a little bit worried, but...without any intervention all problems have just gone after 20-30 hours of riding. Since than (and now is more than 1 year) I had no problem what so ever. Fork is very plush and it absorbs allmost everything. The bigest difference after dumping my last fork (Judy SL-plush, light, but lot of flex) is how my bike now handles. It feels like it is on rails. ETA is nice but somehow I have not found realy any need for it. On very steep climbs I just stay glued on the saddle and there is very little boob. This fork have absolutely made me a better descender because now I have found that I ride downhill quite faster and still feel confident (I am not a downhill fan!!). Since now I have found no need for any maintenance and there is no oil or air leak and no loss of performance. CONCLUSION: I am XC/trail rider (not racer) and I ride about 4000 km per year. I think that the most important thing in mountain biking is to find what kind of bike is right for you and than to ride it. I have found that combination of hardtail and Marzocchi MX Comp ETA seems to be just right for me (and I have tried also full suspension bikes). That fork is great so I can only recommend it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam Mitchell
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: June 25, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Twentywell Rd Sheffield
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$195.00
Purchased At:
Chainreaction UK
Strengths:
Very smooth stroke, which gets better when worn in. ETA system is fantastic for uphill climbs and works perfectly - And the fact that you get people staring at the front of your bike :)
Weaknesses:
When I got them they went through their travel very fast (yes, all 120mm and more) so I used heavier oil and pumped them up a bit, and now they're fine(which is strange, as reading reviews on here people have the opposite problem; I must be too fat:)
Similar Products Used:
SR Suntour (?) RS Sid, zocchi Z5, Z3, Dropoff 04.
Bike Setup:
dmr ts, hope c2s f&r, single speed, halo combat rims
Bottom Line:
This is indeed a VERY good fork for it's price (I have the 120mm 04 version) I would strongly recommend buying them. I tested the amount of travel I got, and for some reason it was 122mm, and the stantions are about 125mm, this did worry me slightly, but it was easily fixed. When they're in 30mm mode, they are just like bouncing on a very hard spring, but it soaks some bumps up, and is good for going up hill with. If you ride hard XC, then these are the forks for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt Los
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: May 24, 2004
Favorite Trail:
the A line
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
River valley cycle
Strengths:
Fork is plush and is very hard to bottom out. Looks great. Light. Soaks up everything you give it. Great for almost any style of riding.
Weaknesses:
Soaks up too much sometimes and causes me to do endo's but that is because I need to get used to it. Can't seem to find out how you get full travel.
Similar Products Used:
rock shox judy tt
Bike Setup:
gt i-drive 3.0
Bottom Line:
the fork performs better than you would think it would for what you payed for it. great for almost anything. so for the price you pay for it, it delivers great performance. But if you are a downhill racer, don't buy this fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Scotland Date Reviewed: May 5, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Glenn Tress
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$200.00
Strengths:
Solidly built and tracks great. No flexing and goes where you point it. Loads of travel and brilliant ETA. And so cheap for this staggering quality!!
Weaknesses:
Just check that the oil level is right or you don't get the full travel.
Similar Products Used:
Rockshox everything. Manitou everything. Pace RC38. Ballistic 600s & 800s. Fox 100r & Talas R.
What a fork & what a price. If you want to pay twice the price you don't get a fork to match. This is a real top quality and top performing fork. And the price gets you to think that it can't be that good but it is. How they sell it so cheap gets me. It tracks as well as the very best you can buy. The travel is smooth and gradual. The ETA control is the best I have ever used...you turn it as you ride, one 45 degree turn & you have a travel reduction to about 30mm. Amazing. Turn it back & it's 105mm. It's that simple and that effective. I've had mine 2 years almost. I haven't had to even change the oil yet...no leaks and it still performs great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tanto Muchos
a Weekend Warrior
from Gtr Cornard Date Reviewed: April 26, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$220.00
Purchased At:
Cycle1st.com
Strengths:
Rigid well constructed & strong with good travel & superb ETA control.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox, Manitou, Pace, Fox.
Bike Setup:
Mountain Cycle Moho SLiX, Full Shimano XT, Hope Mini Discs on Hope Hubs & Mavic 317s.
Bottom Line:
An incredible value for money Fork. It re-defines what value for money means. I have it on my Mountain Cycle, but my Specialized has the Fox Float F80X fork, which feels just slightly smoother that the Marzocchi. Difficult to describe without riding the two, but the Fox is just slightly smoother. But the Fox price is not just a bit smoother, it's very much more expensive than the Marzocchi & that price difference does not give it much of an edge on this superb Marzocchi MX. I compare the two because I think they are quite similar in build. I can only imagine that Fox's production costs must be much higher than Marzocchi. Anyway the Marzocchi is an excellent Fork, it tracks great, no independant leg movement. No tip flutter under hard braking. No plunging through it's entire travel at the sign of a rock....a-la-Manitou. And the price is incredible. It's just totally recommendable!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Collin
a Cross Country Rider
from Minneapolis, MN, USA Date Reviewed: April 7, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Biker Bobs
Strengths:
Strong, Smooth and Sexy
Weaknesses:
Weight...pretty standard for forks these days though!
Similar Products Used:
'01 Judy SL (Great fork btw)
Bike Setup:
XTC NRS - XT, Mavics, Truvativ, etc.
Bottom Line:
A great fork all around. I use this for XC and aggressive single-track and it performs perfect for both. Never bottomed the thing (I weigh 200lbs mind you). It keeps my front wheel glued to the trail like it should. So damn strong, it will outlast my entire bike (besides my Raceface taperlock BB). I've ridden a few Fox forks and I think those are WAY overhyped. A $800 Fox fork didn't feel any better than my $300 MXcomp. Can't beat the value of this fork!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete
a Cross Country Rider
from Ashland, OR, USA Date Reviewed: April 5, 2004
Favorite Trail:
catwalk
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$269.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA
Strengths:
Does not bottom out no matter how hard I hit the trail and I am a 235 pound 6ft 6in rider
Weaknesses:
Constant knocking sound? In manual it states that this sound may be due to oil flow?
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox Judy C........just doesn't cut it.
Bike Setup:
2001 GT Aggressor 1.0 hardtail with sram 9.0sl transmission and Raceface Prodigy DH crankset/sunrhino lite wheels etc
Bottom Line:
This fork is the best bang for the bucks and I have ridden other forks such as Rock Shox Psylo SL (lowsy), Manitou Black Elited(bottoms out)Rock Shox Judy TT and C ( both are awful forks) The Marzocchi MX Comp w/ETA and 105mm of travel is so easy to adjust when climbing it rocks. This is a great product from the Italian company. Thanks
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike P
a Cross Country Rider
from Bath Date Reviewed: March 12, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Dalbeattie
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Cycle1st.com
Strengths:
Strong, great ETA, stiff, good travel, plush, excellent tracking.
Weaknesses:
None
Bike Setup:
Spec FSR Full XTR.
Bottom Line:
I couldn't justify spending more because these forks are superb. I can't flex them and the travel once bedded-in is great. Also the ETA transforms long erduous climbs. A top fork!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Trevor
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Cruz Date Reviewed: March 11, 2004
Favorite Trail:
fast and furious
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$270.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA
Strengths:
Takes a licken... ETA for stand up climbs
Weaknesses:
Internal rebound adjustment. Does not provide advertised travel. Considerable flex. Plastic ETA lever.
The good: This fork takes a beating. I was 240lbs when I started abusing this fork. It took everything I threw at it. I spent 9 hour in the saddle at Mammoth with it. It leaked a little oil out of one leg. Never leaked after that. Has never leaked air either. The Bad: Does not give full advertised travel. 30mm stanchion flex is considerable. Heavy for 30mm forks. Internal rebound adjustment is "mentally challenged". Packs or bottoms out under any real suspension test. Overall this is a good entryl level fork for the "Weekend Warrior"
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marc W.
a Weekend Warrior
from Oxford, Uk, Date Reviewed: February 12, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Brecon Beacon Wale's
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$240.00
Strengths:
Durable solid design, plush, air and coil sprung, ETA feature. Overall well made and feels as though it will last a long time. Its a Marzocchi Bomber Fork!!
Weaknesses:
For the price not many, the levers feel a bit flimsy but have not cause'd me any trouble.
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shock Judy TT, Manitou Mars, Rock Shock Psylo SL, Marzocchi DJ2, Suntour XC80, RST Gila.
Bike Setup:
I have the 105mm versions on a GT Aggressor frame with a mix of Deore and XT parts.
Bottom Line:
I love these forks they feel solid and inspire confidence, from the time I got them they have felt good, but once bedded in they feel even better. I am still amazed at how active and plush they are for a budget fork. Using a shock pump your able to fine tune the sag, increasing the PSI also helps increase the compression so you can tune them to your weight and terrain. The rebound is supposed to be adjustable but the instruction on how to do this are not clear. You can put stiffer springs in and different oil to tune them if you wanted to. But the MX comp ETA is fine as it is for most riders. The ETA feature is handy although I do not use it often, but when I do use it I really appreciate it!! the ETA lever on the 03 fork does not look very robust, but I can't see me ever breaking it! so I have no problem with it. The 04 MX comp ETA has a stronger lever. I use the MX comp for some very aggresive XC riding, I am a very hard rider and put anything I use through a very rough time, so I like to have stuff on my bike that I know can handle my riding, and MX comp does! Its very controlled holds up to repeated hits without packing up to badly, and can even handle jumps and drops as long as you are good at landing!! I rate the MX comp very highly it was on par if not better than the RS Psylo SL I used to have IMO.
It make's a great all round trail fork able to soak up heavy abuse, and in its price range its one of the best fork around.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jewkes
a
from Mesa, AZ Date Reviewed: February 6, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Durable, cheap, and stiff. Smooth!
Weaknesses:
Not as adjustable, light, or new as some of the other designs out there.
Bottom Line:
I hate this fork. It is so strong and well built that I doubt it will ever break and the travel is so smooooth that I can’t talk myself into replacing it with one of the new, hip, cool, more adjustable forks. I’m somehow sure that if I had one of the new forks, I would become a much better rider and, even more importantly, I would be a happier, more well adjusted person in all aspects of my life.
If you are one of those uncool people who want a very good fork that will last a very long time, buy this fork. If you want a very light and cool fork that will last just long enough for the next better, stronger, faster fork to come out, look elsewhere.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
R B
a
from CrazyTown, TX USA Date Reviewed: November 25, 2003
Favorite Trail:
LikeEmAll
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$288.00
Purchased At:
www.madducksports.com
Strengths:
Marzocchi quality, reasonable weight, rides very well. ETA is actually pretty cool and easy to access and use. This is for the 2004 120mm shock.
Weaknesses:
I could see the plastic ETA lever causing some grief if you were to crash...but who crashes anyway.
Probably the best riding cross country fork you can lay you hands on for the money. I have been riding another Marzocchi fork for over a year now with zero problems, no air loss, not a single issue. Get the 2004 model while you can. I tried to get the 2003 a few months back and could not find it in stock anywhere.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike McConnell
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: November 25, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Noble Canyon
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
atombomb.com
Strengths:
Actually a 2004 w/120mm travel Rides great, for the short time I was able to ride it.
Weaknesses:
Beware the ETA knob!!!!!!! I clipped mine off with my downtube on the first ride out. Marzocchi is trying to get me a new one - but I need a whole new ETA ($$$) and parts aren't yet readily available.
Bike Setup:
titanium hardtail
Bottom Line:
File that bulky knob down before it breaks your entire ETA!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Earl
a Racer
from Woodstock, GA Date Reviewed: October 14, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$329.00
Purchased At:
Roswell Bike shop
Strengths:
This fork is super strong, plush and is very easy to set up
Weaknesses:
This fork is fairly heavy, but for the most part, I don't notice it
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox Judy, Marzocchi Marathon SL
Bike Setup:
Trek 6700 hard tail
Bottom Line:
Even though I got gouged on the price (bought it when I first started riding) This fork is probably the best fork you can get for the money. It is incredibly stiff, and the most important thing...able to take abuse! The only draw back to this fork is the inability to set the rebound. However, I have not really noticed the need for it. I just set the positive pressure on the fork to where I like it, and voila...it does the rest of the work for you. I plan to replace my 29er with a new full suspension frame, and this fork is going to be used on that, even though it is a heavy fork. I just can't beat it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tor
a Cross Country Rider
from Oslo, Norway Date Reviewed: October 8, 2003
Best fork I've tried. Its nice on paths, its superb on gravelroads, the ETA-system is supersmart. Flick the switch just before the steep climb starts, and you reduce the hight of the front with a significant amount of millimeters. Supersmart it is:-) So, do you want a good allround fork, with lots and lots of value for your money, and som smart solutions to, get the MX comp ETA. The price difference from MX Comp is worth it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Torrance Date Reviewed: September 20, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$195.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Bottom Line:
Thanks Collin for the tip to make an ETA lever out of a chain link. Mine didn't break, it fell off on the trail. I called Supergo and was told that I need to bring my fork in so they can send it back to Marzocchi. What? This doesn't make any sense. Why would they need to send the whole fork in when I just need a new ETA lever. Supergo in Santa Monica sucks. I called Beach Cities cycle in Hermosa Beach. Instead of helping me like a Marzocchi dealer should, they gave me a lecture on why I shouldn't buy stuff online and said they only deal with warranty issues for customers that buy from them. They were no help. So I continued my search online for Marzocchi small parts and found that cost of the tiny lever close to $20 counting shipping and taxes. Luckily I saw Collin's suggestion here and decided to make my own lever. I took a link off my old chain. Using a drill, I enlarged the link hole to just a tad smaller than the ETA knob. Then, I screwd the link onto the knob. The screw forces the knob to go thru the hole and the two bind to each other. It took me only 10 minutes to make the lever. Try it if your lever breaks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fergal Whitehead
a Cross Country Rider
from England Date Reviewed: September 1, 2003
Favorite Trail:
anywhere thats fun
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$269.00
Purchased At:
all terrain cycles
Strengths:
superb for all round riding, good for a bit of trialsing and really easy going on cross country trails.
Weaknesses:
It bottoms a bit too easily
Bottom Line:
suuuperb forks , wicked at trialsing and dirt jumping takes the strain and pain out of mtb .
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Collin
a Cross Country Rider
from Minnesota Date Reviewed: August 29, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Hillside, Lutsen
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$169.00
Purchased At:
BikerBob.com
Bottom Line:
Just thought I'd let people know I got a tip to use a single chain link for the ETA knob if it breaks! HAven't tried it, but he said it works great!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from San Francisco Bay Area Date Reviewed: August 27, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Pauley Creek - 2nd Divide, Downieville
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$270.00
Purchased At:
Internet
Strengths:
ETA, 105mm of Marzocchi. Noir's nice color. coil (and air). coil's good. a pair's even better.
Weaknesses:
no Weaknesses. something to keep in mind: weight 4.3# (i don't feel the weight, but then I weigh 15 "stones"). one of them tubes got an air shock (and coil in the other): why bother with (half) air? lame stickers.
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi 1998 atom bomb 70mm, was good - in 1998. RS Indy S (now on my wife's bike)
Bike Setup:
1998 kona lavadome (butted cromoly steel frame - survived many gnarly crahes with mere paint scratches). Titanium mcmahon seatpost -- makes a difference. irc clawcomp 2.1 x 26 rubbers.
Bottom Line:
Faster on the way down...way! Can reduce front bobbing and wheel wandering by reducing the travel with the ETA gizmo, reduces my handlebar height by 1.5 inches, enough to make some difference. 105 mm travel seems so much more than 70mm travel of my older fork such that I'm not even curious about feel of the 2004's 120mm travel (really, i'm not, really...)
sometimes, on a looooong climb, i wonder why i didn't buy the the svelt RS Sid fork...then when the fast "rocks and rolls" happen I relish I didn't get a silly air fork... now i feel the need for hydro disk brakes to slow down. Besides, who likes doing maintenance.
Outstanding performance, good value. (but rememeber, the 2004 model has 120mm, if .6" makes a difference to you.)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel
a Cross Country Rider
from San Carlos Date Reviewed: August 26, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$260.00
Purchased At:
Cambria
Strengths:
Cheap. Stiff. Plush. ETA travel adjustment is THE BEST way to do it. No other lockout/travel adjustment systems work as nice.
Weaknesses:
ETA lever broke. New, metal one, for $4.50 - from Larry, is much better. No more troubles. Manual is a joke. No useful information for maintenance.
Similar Products Used:
Manitou Black (OK). Judy (crap).
Bottom Line:
After I installed a new metal ETA lever yesterday (just an e-mail away for you, thanks Larry), I can honestly give a good review now. Hard to give a good review for ETA when I was unable to use it twice - because the damn plastic cracked and had to be glued.
Now it is an excellent product with the most clever adjustment system out there.
Now if they put some minimal maintenance/overhaul manuals some where on the web, it will be even better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario Date Reviewed: August 25, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$279.00
Purchased At:
Toronto bike shop.
Strengths:
Very stiff, easy to engage eta., plush.
Weaknesses:
Cannot engage eta with broken lever. Decals peel off. Manual is trash. Customer support is non-existant.
Similar Products Used:
Manitou Black Comp(very nice), Marz Z4
Bike Setup:
Norco Nitro, XT etc.
Bottom Line:
ETA lever broke off the third time that I tried to engage it and the decals peeled off after 2 weeks. The manual is a freaking joke - I have never seen anything so useless. I also developed an oil leak after 1 month of riding. Customer support is terrible. I don't think that anyone actually works in that dept. On the plus side, Marz. forks are always stiff and plush and the price can't be beat. But this doesn't make up for the other problems and the lack of support for their product. I would recommend the Manitou Black Comp which I have been riding now for 1 month.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rasmus
a Weekend Warrior
from Sunny Scunny, England Date Reviewed: August 23, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Wales (all of it)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
supercycles - nottingham
Strengths:
for 165 notes (sterling that is) it can't be beat, plush, loads of travel and tons of adjustability
Weaknesses:
eta lever looks cheap, crap handbook (which literally tells you nothing, must have lost something in translation) and the decal is pretty poor compared to the rest of the range..
Similar Products Used:
rox shox, rst and other Marzocchi's (EXC - MX COMP)
Bike Setup:
kona cindercone - lx xt groupset - hope bulb/f321
Bottom Line:
the forks are super lush out of the box, easy to install if you posess half a brain (although the handbook is completly useless, put it on top of the toilet and use it as toilet paper, probably the only usefull thing it's good for). little brake flutter and has ability to take some of the harder knocks, but it's worth remembering it's not jumping/street fork. not sure if im getting full travel out of mine (about 95 mm) but this is to do with the oil level (which again the handbook gives crap all info about... it would be nice to know oil levels/wt) buy them... they're cheap!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from LA Date Reviewed: August 16, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
new on ebay
Strengths:
quality of construction, price, smooth travel
Weaknesses:
none
Bottom Line:
Why pay $600 for a Fox fork when you can get the same ride quality for a lot less in this one? Also less things can go wrong without all the useless adjustabilities. Fox has a lockout but MX comp ETA has ETA...effectively compresses the shock while partially lock it up. By compressing the shock you get steeper headangle which really helps today's long travel trail bikes climb much better. You will imediately notice that the tendancy to do willies on steep climbs is gone. Don't buy MX comp, buy MX comp ETA. I am a lot better climber with it. Also because I don't have to get off the bike to shorten the fork travel (unlike Psylo and Fox talas) by turning a knob 20 revolutions, I find myself engage the ETA with a flip of the switch on every steep climb. Marzocchi rules. By the way, don't buy Marzocchi Marathons, in my opinion the MX series offer a lot better values than the Marathons and only weighs 0.2lb more than the Marathons. If you want more adjustability like rebound control, get MX Pro ETA...about $150 more than MX comp ETA.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ty
a Cross Country Rider
from Eugene, Oregon Date Reviewed: August 15, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$275.00
Purchased At:
Paul's
Strengths:
Strong, very smooth, ETA works great, very low maintenance,
Weaknesses:
manual is not very descriptive--if you don't already know how to work in the fork, you won't learn it from the manual.
Similar Products Used:
Manitou, Rock Shox
Bike Setup:
Specialized Rockhopper Comp, new stuff upgraded as old wore out.
Bottom Line:
Great fork, as stated below. Worked perfectly from day one...no stiction or anything. At 230 lbs, it holds me up better than any others I have ridden--inspires confidence better than other brands out there. Over 3 months on it, no problems, haven't even had any maintenance to do yet--doesn't even lose air, so I haven't bothered to buy a pump! I anticipated purchasing heavy springs, but the one's in it work well enough I haven't even gotten around to that yet. Big riders can ride this fork with confidence that it will do its job.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon
a Cross Country Rider
from American Fork, UT, USA Date Reviewed: August 10, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Bonneville Shoreline
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$269.00
Purchased At:
www.nashbar.com
Strengths:
It is very well assembled, intuitive to use, and handles the choppy stuff incredibly well. Even while ETA is activated, it can still absorb some of the impact.
Weaknesses:
The manual is vague when it comes to rebound adjustment. Internally adjustable rebound? Ok, so where is it? Once the ETA is activated, the shock must be compressed to enable the shortened stroke. Not a real problem, but try not to forget to activate before the climb.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Headshock, Manitou SL, Rock Shox Judy XC, and Rock Shox Judy XC gutted with Englund Air catridges.
Bike Setup:
MY98 Schwinn Homegrown All Mountain, Hayes discs, Titec posts, Kooka crankset, XTR components, Sachs grip shifters, and dead Mavic 317 wheels.
Bottom Line:
The ETA is an exceptional design. It doesn't limit downstroke like one would expect from a lockout, but rather, it compresses then prevents a returning upstroke. This effectively drops the headangle and changes the angle from a downhill ride to a climber.
It absorbs everything very well but the rebound needs to be increased a little out of the box; however, I can't figure out how to adjust it. The preload measurements are a little low. They recommend 35-45psi for me but I found 50psi to ride a little better.
The shock is awesome. It bobs while standing, but simply activating the ETA resolves that. It absorbs large and small bumps well. Don't worry about hurting your climbing because the design makes it a hybrid downhill shock and an uphill lockout. The only thing I noticed is that I sometimes had to deactivate the ETA on really bumpy climbs to help absorb some of the nastiness and keep the wheel on the ground.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
martin
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver, B.C. Date Reviewed: August 5, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Joyride @ Whistler bike park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$239.00
Purchased At:
Universal cycles
Strengths:
Strong, stiff, plush, great steering and cornering
Weaknesses:
ETA lever (just nitpicking here)
Similar Products Used:
Manitou Magnum R (crap), Judy TT (worse crap)
Bike Setup:
Ironhorse Mach V tricked out with aftermarket almost everything
Bottom Line:
This forks delivers - I am not going to repeat what everyone else here had already said. I bought the fork based on reviews here and it does everything it's claimed. I weigh 190 lbs + gear and have yet to bottom it out at 50 psi (believe me, I tried). This fork took my riding to the next level of speed, control and cornering. At 42, I now ride right the bike park on the tail of my 15 year-old doofus kid (got another MX Comp ETA for him) - it picks the hell out of him.:-)))) No more sore arms where the crappy forks transferred the bumps and hits...and I thought it was my old age...;-0)))
Believe the reviews, buy this fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jose Chavarria
a Cross Country Rider
from San Jose, Costa Rica Date Reviewed: August 3, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$370.00
Purchased At:
Guilly's
Strengths:
Great performance, gives excelent control as well as speed in the descent. Low maintenancew required.
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Judy TT
Bike Setup:
Trek 4900, full loaded (XT, Easton, etc..)
Bottom Line:
It was my best buy in the last semester, I bought it because after a downhill my Rox Shock just expired. At that time I wanted a Sid, but because I didn´t had the money and I couln´t wait I chose Marzocchi. Txs God, for that price it is really one of the hotest forks for 2003!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon Walsh
a Weekend Warrior
from U.K Date Reviewed: July 27, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Cycle1st.com
Strengths:
Well made and Really strong. Loads of smooth travel. fantastic and simple ETA adjuster.Sooo cheap for quality and performance like this!
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Manitou, Rockshox, Pace, RST, Ballistic, Girvin.......the list is endless.
Bike Setup:
Marin Wolf Ridge.......all standard but for these forks.
Bottom Line:
Wow. Can't say that many times for a piece of gear on a Mountain bike. These do everything they say they will. Great travel.....super smooth. Really stiff with superb tracking and the ETA is fantastic...just try long hard climbs and see how great this gizmo is and then switch it off for some of the most confidence building fast technical descents you can do. And what a great price!! I know it's boring.......... but the reviews are right. Buy it. Ride it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MDC
a Cross Country Rider
from san diego, california Date Reviewed: July 26, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$269.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
ETA. oh, and marzocchi quality.
Weaknesses:
that plastic ETA lever.
Similar Products Used:
various RS products.
Bottom Line:
what can i say that hasn't already been said? this fork is awesome. it's rock solid... plush... just like the reviews have all been saying. and for the price an absolute no-brainer. and the one time i needed marzocchi customer service, they were great. bravo marzocchi... bravo.
and good-bye rock shox....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
peter eriksson
a Weekend Warrior
from sweden Date Reviewed: July 25, 2003
Favorite Trail:
in the woods..? ;o)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
smooth , stiff, you name it
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
different RS crap , Manitou sx 100 (decent fork)
Bottom Line:
really a good fork for the money. All the positive reviews here is a fact.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, CO Date Reviewed: July 22, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$280.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
This baby is plush. Not too heavy. Very adjustable.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox Indy SL (absolute crap)
Bike Setup:
Old Haro A2 Hardtail with Titec appendages, XTR drivetrain except Race Face Tubine LP cranks, BB, SRAM chain, Avid SD-7.
Bottom Line:
This thing is sweet. It really built my confidence in the downhill section of XC trails. It sucks up everything I can trow at it. It is supremely adjustable, the compression, rebound, stiffness, etc. And most importantly, all adjustments are very easy. My only thing is that the ETA seems kind of useless, unless you like to pump your pedals standing up on the uphill section. And sometime, even then I still forget to turn it on, or worse, off. At any rate, it seem a lot better than lust locking out the shock. Also, at the beginning, it had a hard time keeping the air pressure constant, I had to pump it up every weekend. Seems to have improved now, somehow, not sure why. At any rate, amazing shock and the price is just as amazing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a Weekend Warrior
from ottawa, canada Date Reviewed: July 20, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$425.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
Stiff, marzocchi name.
Weaknesses:
ETA lever, leaks oil, stiction.
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi Z5
Bike Setup:
Kona Fire Mountain XT components.
Bottom Line:
Marzocchi is usually top quality, but this fork isn't. The ETA lever broke off, oil is leaking all over the place and it has a jerky travel even after 30+ hours of riding. No reply from marzocchi tech support after 1 month and numerous e-mails. This fork is junk.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Burbidge
a Cross Country Rider
from Kentville, NS, Canada Date Reviewed: July 18, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Stiff, smooth, cheap, ETA
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
5" Z5, 2.5" Z5, Rock Shox
Bike Setup:
2000 Caldera, MX Comp ETA, Thomson, Monkeylites
Bottom Line:
Great fork at any price, my fork seems to lock down in two spots at 75 and 30mm. Don't listen to people who say it has travel at 30mm. Of coarse it will move but the spring rate doesn't adjust (or there would be nasty bottoming), if you hit something hard enough to move the fork in 30mm mode you'll get a nasty top out for your trouble. This isn't bad because you shouldn't be whacking thigs too hard with it locked down. Anyway, the fork's awesone, buy one if you can.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wayne
a Cross Country Rider
from Everett Wa Date Reviewed: July 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Devils Gulch
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$249.00
Purchased At:
Universal cycles
Strengths:
Value, smooth as buttaa, tracking and stiffness, Marzocchi quality and durability.
Weaknesses:
None !
Similar Products Used:
Rock Something, Manitou
Bike Setup:
2003 Santa Cruz Superlight, XTR-XT drivetrain,Time,Titec, Flight, all the goods
Bottom Line:
This fork has made me a Marzocchi rider for life. I did not know what a good fork was until ridding this. The bike steers like it is on rails and has almost zero flex and I am a bigger rider. Smooth with none of the noises and flexing I have always had with every RS ridden or owned.There are lots of other forks that cost much more but why. The ETA is awesome for the steep climbs but still has 30mm of give unlike many others that simply lock out all togther. You cannot go wrong for trail type riding or XC unless you are a weight winney in which case a noodley SID XC is your favorite. Buy it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dylan
a Weekend Warrior
from Santa Barbara, CA Date Reviewed: July 10, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$249.00
Purchased At:
Speedgoat
Strengths:
My Goodness! I had a Manitou Black on my Gary Fisher and thought it was a decent fork. Didn't have anything really to compare it to. I put this fork on and have taken it for a few rides. I love it. What I noticed right away was the way the bike handles. It corners quickly and has a solid feel to it. The ETA option is cool. Climbing is much more efficient. Every ounce of pedal torque now translates to distance.
Weaknesses:
The decals and graphics look a little dorky but hey...
Similar Products Used:
Manitou Black Elite
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher Marlin, all XT, Avid mech discs, Rhino Lite wheels with XTR hubs. Thompson post with Koobi Enduro gel saddle, Marchozzi MX comp fork and Panaracer FireX rubber
Bottom Line:
spend all the $$ you want but not before going to your local bike shop to see the fork. The guys at Speedgoat say that the 03 model is just about sold out. This chili is hot.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Sousa
a
from Lisboa, Portugal Date Reviewed: July 7, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Belas e Monsanto
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Bttrilhos
Strengths:
Everything!! Stiff, plush, great handling, ETA, Confidence inspiring, etc...
Weaknesses:
NONE!!
Bike Setup:
Giant ATX Team (hard tail)
Bottom Line:
I ride agressive XC and there's no doubt that this is the best fork for XC/Soft Freeride, I bought mine for 324€ but i would definitly buy it for much more.. The only thing that everyone says it's bad is the ETA lever (they are right, mine broke in a week!), but i was told by the marzocchi dealer that's the purpose of the lever.. if the lever was in aluminum it could break the whole ETA system, and since they change the lever for free is best replacing a plastic lever than having to replace the ETA cartdrige. In order to preserve the ETA lever, don't tighten the bolt too much and handle it with some care (i'm sure this way the lever will not break).
If you are looking to know the weight of this fork, i can tell you that mine's weight was 2050g (4.51 lbs)(out of the box,canti supports) and with the steer tube cutted weight's 2000g (4.4 lbs) but it doesn't ride heavy and don't forget that this is not a pure xc fork, 30mm stanchions (like psylo).
What can i say more all these reviews are right, with this fork you get 105mm (or 85) of travel, witch is great to descend, and with the ETA system you can still climb everything a bike with a 63mm SID climbs. Don't buy anything else!! This is the fork for everything else except Competition XC or Very Agressive Freeride/DownHill.
Read all the reviews.. you can't go wrong..
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Maz
a Weekend Warrior
from Bristol Date Reviewed: July 1, 2003
Favorite Trail:
MBR
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Cycle1st.com
Strengths:
Stiff, very plush, great tracking, strong, plenty of travel, confidence inspiring and cheap.
I don't skimp on bike gear......if I want it and it costs I get it. I've got a cheap pair of Forks on a bike where my cranks cost twice the price of my Forks. Why do I ride the MX Comp ETA's.......... They're simply SUPERB! They do what they're supposed to. Believe the reviews! To pay more and buy a different pair of Forks is stupidity.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ralphie Wiggums
a Cross Country Rider
from Edison Date Reviewed: June 23, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$269.00
Purchased At:
Bothell Bike & Ski
Strengths:
Outperforms every fork that I've ever ridden by a huge margin. The ETA feature makes a significant difference in climbing.
Weaknesses:
None whatsoever. I wish the manual contained more details, but that has nothing to do with the fork.
Similar Products Used:
Rockshox Duke, Marzocchi Z-2, Rockshox mag-10
Bike Setup:
Specialized Stumpjumper FRS
Bottom Line:
Is it possible to assign ten chilis to a product? After reading the glowing reviews I bought this fork and have been completely impressed with it. The level of performance such as bump absorption, steering precision, etc. greatly exceeds any other product out there regardless of price. The ETA is an incredibly useful function that needs to be experienced. The ETA technology really translates into excellent trail performance. The reviews are all true, this is the best X-C fork that you can buy for any price. It just happens to cost less than many other forks that could never even come close in performance. To buy anything else would be a complete waste of money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pedro Sousa
a
from Gouveia, Portugal Date Reviewed: June 20, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Portuguese store
Strengths:
Good look and finish quality. strong and plush enough for you hard ride. great handeling when you have less pressure....
Weaknesses:
Weaknesses??? come on... we are talkin' about Marzocchi here!!!!!
Similar Products Used:
magura quake, marz. z1 m 80, judy tt...
Bike Setup:
Giant xtc nrs 2002...
Bottom Line:
This is the best for you can have for the money you pay!!! it's not that expensive and it yourks better then you could ever dream!!!! the ETA thing is very useful in climbing situations... use it and abuse it!!! this suspension just ask you to it...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Justin
a Weekend Warrior
from Sacramento, CA, USA Date Reviewed: June 19, 2003
Favorite Trail:
sweetwater
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$239.00
Purchased At:
Adrenaline Bikes
Strengths:
Super plush travel, stiffness, ETA lock-out, price, and graphics
Weaknesses:
The only weakness I can see potentially is the ETA lever but after reading the other posts Ill be sure not to manhandle mine! Just use a lil finnesse guys and youll be thankfull.
Similar Products Used:
Pilot, Judy, Psylo, Skareb( all with no comparrison!)
Bike Setup:
Mesa Gs, XT cranks, Easton's carbon Monkeylight bar, shimano 536 clipless,Selle Carbon pro-link saddle, rest of components stock(for now)
Bottom Line:
At a cool 239 dollars! Im getting the ultimate bang for my buck! The confidence these forks instill along with the buttery travel and the ETA all is a godsend. Read all the reviews before i bought it, and they all are true! Lock-out is a must for any serious trail and the adjustability with the air will be nice( although its not needed now,just nice to know its there if ya need) At a whopping 200lbs(got extra lazy this winter) this fork can soak up anything i give it! Buy this fork! Anything else, and you'll probably be sorry! Im soo glad I did.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kirk B
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: June 18, 2003
Favorite Trail:
close ones til i gat a van
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$145.00
Purchased At:
simplybikes
Strengths:
Travel, price, plushness, colour, performance
Weaknesses:
that crappy plastic lever
Similar Products Used:
Rockshox Jett, Rockshox Judy
Bike Setup:
Zen frame, C2 headset, F519 rims, XT hubs, V8 pedals, Deore cranks, levers & mechs, Amoeba bars, stem & headlock, Speed V seat, Kore lite 2 post, Planet X clamp
Bottom Line:
Gotta learn to ride all over again, only lots faster. Ive only had it a month and im impressed (they say it gets better when bedded in). Ive been riding for 3 years, play biking mostly and agressive XC with occassional V.light DH. This fork eats bumps, steps etc with ease, it doesent seem to dip too much on cornering. The other reviews are right, its an awesome fork, confidence inspiring, good lookin etc. Only bad thing bout it- the crappy lockout lever, I wondered how other riders broke theirs, simple.... dont do X-ups or turn bars too far. When my lever broke (on 3rd ride)it also damaged the screw hole thingy. SORT IT OUT MARZOCCHI. Would have scored 5 but for the crappy lever.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
simezky
a Weekend Warrior
from nr Reading UK Date Reviewed: June 16, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$220.00
Purchased At:
online cheapest i could find
Strengths:
strong and smooth. really plush and they soak up the small stuff as well as the big hits. they made me ride loads faster downhill. which has gotta be a good thing. they hardly needed to bed in just smooth plush travel right out of the box!
Weaknesses:
everyone says that the ETA lever is relly weak and breaks easily, but hey call up Marzocchi and they send you a metal one free of charge. great customer service!
These forks are great for pretty much anything you throw at them. i do a bit of everything, jumping, xc. the ETA is great for powering up hills and when you get to the top its just a quick flick of a switch to get 105mm of travel, perfect. all of the other travel adjustments or lockouts are just too fiddley to do while riding along. i had a go on a mates bike, he has duke U-Turns, you have to turn the thing round about 12 times to significantly reduce the travel! The ETA is better than complete lockout because you still have 30mm to soak up small stuff. also your riding position is lower at the front so the front wheel doesn't lift up when going up steep hills.
the price is also something to look at, you get so much more for your money than you get from Rock Shox or Manitou.
the ETA lever is on the left side of the fork which is good is you are right handed.
Its good to have one side air one side ETA because it means that you can adjust the stiffness of the fork to suit your weight. i'm only 15 and have had problems in the past getting forks with soft enough springs.
I would recomend this fork to anyone. its not the lightest of forks but is sure performes well both for light jumping and cross country. the ETA rocks and it can out-perform forks costing twice as much. it has made my riding a lot more aggressive. buy this fork!!!! dont waste your money on a more expensive fork this is one sweet fork!!!!
Good product - Not many controls, but more than enough for an enthusiast biker - ETA great for climbs (just remember to switch back for descends) - After using a RS Pilot C, this is MUCH MUCH MUCH BETTER. Yet to get pain on hands since using this jewel. The ETA plastic lever it is not all that trouble for me. It seems good enough, and many of my friends with same fork haven't yet had any trouble with it.Get it if you have small budget and want a good fork.
Weaknesses:
Decals graphic and owner manual
Similar Products Used:
RS Pilot C ( but tried also some Psylo and Fox - not all that difference , except for price tag)
Bottom Line:
Unless you need extreme forks (strong / light / DH) this is the fork. Won't be disappointed. Try one. Will agree.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Derick
a Cross Country Rider
from San Jose, CA Date Reviewed: June 14, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Soquel Demonstartion Forest
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$249.00
Purchased At:
Reed Sports
Strengths:
Stiff, Tracks Well and accurate steering, plush
Weaknesses:
none so far and none I think later on
Similar Products Used:
years and years of Rock Shox Forks Duke/Psylo U-turn, Sid
Bike Setup:
Schwinn Mesa DSX, XT/MAVIC 317 Disk Wheelset, XT through out drivetrain/crankset/shifters, Cane Creek AD10
Bottom Line:
After months of reading all the reviews, researching and recommendation from different bike mechanics, Aggresive riders finally I got a REAL Fork, No more Rock Shox Product for me the difference is like night and day. WOW my steering and cornering is dead on and the fork felt like really indestructible and instill confidence. ETA really do work (a very thought out design), the plastic lever can be replaced and the weight only half pound heavier than the Duke realy is not a big deal. With a reliable track record I think I won't need another fork for a long time and if that time comes I wont hesitate to buy another Marzocchi Fork. Break in period though takes a few rides. Another Marzocchi convert trying to spread the good news. Happy Trails :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steven
a Cross Country Rider
from Monroe, NY 10950 Date Reviewed: June 12, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Stewart Buffer Land
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$269.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint.com
Strengths:
Great Fork
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Fatty
Bottom Line:
No need to spend anymore money. The perfect aggressive XC fork. Have had no problems with the plastic lever and would definetely buy again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Davenport
a Cross Country Rider
from Draper, UT Date Reviewed: May 31, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Ridge trail 157
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$239.00
Purchased At:
Online, cheapest I could find
Strengths:
Instills confidence
Weaknesses:
Bobs a bit if you stand out of the saddle, even using ETA
Similar Products Used:
Manitou Mars, Rock Shox SID
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher Sugar 1, XT wheelset, Cloud nine rear shock, riser bars, Continental ? back tire, Specialized team control front tire, Time titanium pedals, XT shifters, and XTR frnt and rear drls, XT cassette.
Bottom Line:
Okay, I love this fork. I am over six feet tall and a stout 220. To describe my riding style, I would say I love climbs more than descents. Probably, because every fork I have owned to this point was a noodle and didn't let me carve turns or be aggressive downhill, I use to endo once a week.
But that has all changed, this fork turned my bike into a moto-cross racing machine. It makes climbing a breeze with the fabulous ETA, and descents are heaven.
Everyone wants to mention the price, its not about the money, I would have spent $500 to have a fork that made my bike better. I considered the Marathon Coil and the Fox coil. But the reviews just aren't as good.
This fork is not that heavy either. I say if your worried about weight, Buy carbon cranks to make up the difference. I smoked my friend up my favorite trail this past weekend, his bike is 2 lbs lighter than mine and he weighs 20 lbs less, and on the descent I am now the master of my fate as I carve turns like I am on skis.
By far the best bike purchase i have made since I started biking three years ago. Unless you race and have to Have a sub 3 lb fork, then this fork is for you. I honestly cannot imagine why everyone I meet on the trail isn't riding the MX Comp.
The negatives are about the ETA lever, give me a break, I haven't had a problem with mine yet (15 rides), and heck I'll keep a dozen in my tool pouch in case I have a bad day :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Troy
a Cross Country Rider
from Cincinnati Date Reviewed: May 28, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Nebo Ridge
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$269.00
Purchased At:
Bikerbob.com
Strengths:
super stiff, smooth on the small bumps and eats up the big ones. ETA really works and is on the correct side of fork unlike a few other forks I have seen. Typical Marzocchi fork great performance and I really do not think it is that heavy but heavy is good heavy is reliable.
Weaknesses:
ETA lever is plastic but call Marzocchi and they will send you a metal one in two days great service.
Similar Products Used:
Rock shock quadra 21R, Manitou SXR, Marzocchi atom bomb z2.
Bike Setup:
01 Trek Fuel, Hayes Mag hydro brakes, XT shifters, XT front & XTR rear derailers, Rolf Dolomite disc wheels, Egg Beater pedals, Fox Float rear shock, rest is Bontrager.
Bottom Line:
Best fork for under $300 without a doubt. Since the lever is on the left side you can hit it while your right hand can downshift at the same time, which is a nice convenience. Much like my old Marzocchi a-bomb just reliable you know it will take about any hit you can throw at it. Basically this has made my bike a new ride since the adj travel is a nice help on hills and at full extension it is more like a downhill bike. It matches my rear Fox Float much better than the OEM Mantiou. When I called them for the new ETA lever Steve from Marzocchi could not have been more helpful. Great fork and great support = must buy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Conway, Arkansas Date Reviewed: May 27, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Camp Robinson
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$260.00
Purchased At:
Universal Cycles
Strengths:
Stiff, plush, ETA works as billed, best fork I've ever ridden.
Weaknesses:
Plastic ETA lever
Similar Products Used:
RS SID, RD Duke Race, Marzocchi Atom 80
Bike Setup:
Bianchi SISS, stock
Bottom Line:
I am not seeing why people are spending 600+ dollars on Fox forks when Marzocchi is offering comparable performance for a third of the cost.
I'd buy this fork again, no questions asked and actually want one for my geared bike. Stiff, plush travel, cheap, a little heavy, but who cares? It's near four pounds, good enough for me.
Seriously, this fork fills a lot of niches better than most.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric Horak
a Cross Country Rider
from NJ Date Reviewed: May 24, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Claton Park
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$270.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA
Strengths:
value,strenght,ETA
Weaknesses:
ETA lever broke right out of the box,IS dsc adptr cnflct
Similar Products Used:
Rockshox Judy C (junk)
Bike Setup:
01 GT I-Drive 3.0,Hayes cbl dsc,yada yada yada
Bottom Line:
EXCELLENT trailbike fork. Open your toolbox and make your own lever.RIDE ON!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Lebork,Poland Date Reviewed: May 23, 2003
Favorite Trail:
XC
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
unibike
Strengths:
plush, massive (except ETA lever), nice working
Weaknesses:
heavy, the ETA lever is a joke, the manual too, air lost
Similar Products Used:
RST :)
Bike Setup:
Giant XtC team, XT
Bottom Line:
only for aggresive XC (not racing), how can I change oil?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a
from Calgary, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: May 14, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Canada Olympic Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$255.00
Purchased At:
B&P Cycle
Strengths:
Strong, Tracks well, sucks up most of the bumps I've given it, ETA!!! Plush Plush PLUSH!!!
Weaknesses:
C'mon...it's Marzocchi. Only some minor things...Should have a metal ETA switch like the Z1. Logo isn't the bast. Internal rebound, but for external you pay the extra money for the pro right. I can't get at the air nozzle with my $40 air pump so now I have buy a new one. Manual SUCKS and Marzocchi never return thier customer support e-mails!!!
Similar Products Used:
RST 281(Crap), Manitou Spyder R(Not too bad), Rock Shox Judy T2(Ultra CRAP pogo stick), Marzocchi Jr. T (SWEET!!)
Bike Setup:
'98 Norco Nitro, Race Face BB/Cranks, Rhino Lite rims, WTB tires, MX Comp fork, Titec and Shimano everything else
Bottom Line:
Sweet Sweet Sweet!!! There was a nasty period of break in where there was a fair ammount of stiction but once that passed this baby just sucks up everything I can give it. I am a light rider at arround 145-150lbs but this shock just rocks. I still ride hard as I am mainly a down-hiller and this is a second bike for riding with my fiance. I don't think I'll be looking for a new shock for a while. This is an awesome XC fork...that said, it is a XC fork you will probably die if you try to do heavy DH or north shore with it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jose
a Weekend Warrior
from elmwood park Date Reviewed: May 11, 2003
eta lever seems to be weak, but 3 months later it's still working to perfection
Similar Products Used:
Judy xc, manitou black.
Bike Setup:
gt avalanche 1.0, deore xt components
Bottom Line:
I just purchased a new Gary FIsher sugar which came with a manitou black, which is about $100 more. I missed my Marzochi so much that the first thing I did right after the ride (on my brand new bike)was switch forks!. I think that says it all.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pimiento
a Weekend Warrior
from Duiven, The Netherlands Date Reviewed: May 3, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Posbank
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$275.00
Strengths:
Great amount of travel, works great in all XC conditions. Great value and great looks. Great fork.
Weaknesses:
Bit heavy, packs up a little during quick bumps, such as riding staircases, no external rebound ajustment.
Similar Products Used:
Suntour crap
Bike Setup:
Giant ATX, Fully LX Gold BBB Parts.
Bottom Line:
Great fork for everyone who loves to do XC, UA and light Freeride. Has a great value for money and it works superb. The ETA lever is helpfull in steep climbs, otherwise I don`t use it that often. You are a fool when you spend more money for a fork, this one rocks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Johan
a Weekend Warrior
from Gent Belgium Date Reviewed: April 28, 2003
Favorite Trail:
All of the fab trail's at the belgian and French Ardenne
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$275.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Super plush. Great value (although a little bit more expensive in europe than in the US) ETA adjustment
Weaknesses:
Fragile ETA lever (and a bit aside the fork: manual could be a bit more detailed....)
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox Mag-10 (all stiction, no travel), 2002 Judy-XC (Heavy, no stiction, no comp or rebd damping but, halliluja, :spring adjust)
Bike Setup:
Specialized Enduro y2k model.
Bottom Line:
I have a few technical questions considering the tunnig of this great fork... 1. What is the recommended oil height in the left fork leg? And how can you measure this? I assume that first you let out al of the preload air in the right fork leg, than remove the ETA lever of the right fork leg, and remove the dust cap. Push the fork down to it's limit? And measure the oil height form the top coller of the left leg down to the top of the oil level? BUT... what is the recomended oil level?? And what are the margins on this level?? (e.g 50 mm??? margin: +/- 5 mm???) And second do the air preload values stated under point 6.2 of manuel regard al of the 03 Marzocchi forks? (max. pressure of 4.5 bar...)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Philip
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto Date Reviewed: April 28, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$270.00
Purchased At:
Cycle Path
Strengths:
Super plush. Great value. ETA adjustment.
Weaknesses:
Fragile ETA lever and screw. lever cracked after 2 rides. Something tells me I will have to replace it several times. Marzocchi has replaced it very quickly. They should just make the lever thicker and more durable. And the screw that holds the ETA lever comes loose. --- WISH THE GRAPHICS WERE LIKE THE Z.1 --
Similar Products Used:
Manitou spider & Black Elite
Bike Setup:
98 Fisher Kaitai, Marzocchi MX COMP ETA, XT front Der. LX rear der., raceface prodigy stem and low rise bar, panaracer fire XC pro, WTB Speed V saddle
Bottom Line:
Only had this for 1 month now...But it is the best fork I have ridden for the money!!!! Very Plush and predictable. Value is amazing!!! I will write back with more info in several months. Don't know why you would need to spend your money on a better fork. This works just great. ETA lever has cracked (see weaknesses above) but it is neglegable. (Will call MArzocchi, I'm sure they will replace it).
With ETA on, fork climbs like a beast, ETA off, VERY PLUSH RIDE. Great feature. Any level XC rider(and anyone else not stupid enough to spend more)would appreciate this fork. 4 flamming chillies for the cracked ETA and 5 fab chillies for AMAZING VALUE.
I must add though that I wish Marzocchi would somplify their graphics. The decals and finish on the Z.1 are great, they should use these across the whole line!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob Cuthbertson
a Cross Country Rider
from Manchester Date Reviewed: April 20, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Hopton Wood
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
Cycle1st.com
Strengths:
Really well made, plush with great travel and superb tracking. Also tremendous value for money!
Weaknesses:
I have not yet found any.
Similar Products Used:
You name it!
Bike Setup:
Specialized Enduro.....full XT, Easton bits.
Bottom Line:
These are fantastic forks......believe in the reviews ..they are right. Great travel, great ETA, great tracking....what can I say? If you need a superb set of new forks with really good travel and great tracking then you must get these!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cal
a Weekend Warrior
from Ireland Date Reviewed: April 19, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Gwydyr Forest (Marin)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$270.00
Purchased At:
Dave Hinde Cycles
Strengths:
plush Plush PLUSH action, low pressure so no need for a dedicated shock pump, ETA does make a difference on climbs, track the terrain really well.
Weaknesses:
Valve to the air chamber stuck open when adjusting it on their first trip out, causing total loss of fork pressure and massive increase in my blood pressure for the following minute! Easy fix though, it literally just needed a wiggle to seat properly.
Similar Products Used:
RST 381 AET - so glad I changed them. Have also tried out various Rockshox, but none come close for me.
Bike Setup:
Dawes hardtail, MX Comp ETA, mostly deore bits...
Bottom Line:
These are NICE! Strong, plush, great seals (so far anyway), ETA lockdown is a bit of a luxury but is just enough to stop the front wheel floating on steep climbs...and of course the price is fantastic for the quality and features.
Just don't forget to take off the ETA before you start the descent!
Great performance at mimimal cost - look no further.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Will
a Weekend Warrior
from Surrey, UK Date Reviewed: April 19, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Box Hill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$179.00
Purchased At:
www.chainreactioncycles.com
Strengths:
ETA lockdown, quality Marzocchi build, looks good, plush and super stiff out of the box.
Weaknesses:
My ETA lever broke, replaced free, no real weaknessess though
Similar Products Used:
Rocksux Judy TT, rigidness (painful experience)
Bike Setup:
01 Specialized Hardrock Comp, mavic 519s, deore hydraulic/ stock v brakes, LX crankset and BB, parancer fire xc's, gd ole Marzocchis up front
Bottom Line:
Amazing in every way, i bought it based on the price ( £179 on chainreactioncycles - i also recomend them) and these reviews here. Should be worth nearer £300, after quite long break in (80 hours!) super smooth and good if you want a budget fork 2 pump it up 4 dirt jumpin but not massive jumps though, i managed to break the plastic lever when i crashed, replaced free with alloy one which is much better, umm basically get them, an xc/freeride fork, can be pumped up 4 dirt jumpers, nice and lightweight looks great, SSV works a treat the ETA is so fun, when releasing it from compression it whoomphs back up to 105mm of travel, what an invention top play 2 the marzocchi reaserch and development team there!
Buy it now...............
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben Vallack
a Weekend Warrior
from Devon, UK Date Reviewed: April 17, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
www.chainreactioncycles.com
Strengths:
Gorgeous feel, plush and smooth, PRICE!, the ETA is awsome, removable v-brake mounts to neeten it up if and when converting to discs, great looking
Weaknesses:
crap manual, you really have to figure it out for yourself. the ETA leaver looks really flimsy.
Similar Products Used:
Marzocchi XCR, played on a friends Monster Ts.
Bike Setup:
GT arrowhead, XT/LX, MX Comp ETA forks!!
Bottom Line:
I was amaized at the feel of these things considering what I payed for them! (£179.)They have a similar plush feel to the Monster Ts, but of course without the massive travel, weight and strength. (Incidentaly I am not implying you can compare these forks with Monster Ts in any way, they are for completely different riding stlyes. I am simply saying they both have a very high quality feel.) The ETA feature is so cool, your happily bounding around on the 105mm setting which soaks up everything and feels great then when you want to go up hill you just flick the leaver on-the-fly (none of this on the handle bar clutter that some forks have - just lean down and flick it on top of the fork) and the fork compresses under your weight (and/or with a bit of encouragement) and stays down at 30mm of really firm travel to reduce bob, which it does, its amaizing. When you get to the top you just flick the leaver back and as if by magic the forks expand to 105 again! What a concept! brilliant. I would say get these if your on a budget but frankly Im going to say get them anyway! got a bit more to spend? save it and get these, as a lot of people are saying they are just spectacular value and its true. These things have drastically improved my riding and I highly recomend them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Roy
a
from San Diego Date Reviewed: April 14, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
none
Strengths:
Paging Alex from Valencia. I too have a Specialized Stumpjumper FSRxc '02. Could you email me. I have questions about your shock.
Bottom Line:
NA
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from Valencia, CA Date Reviewed: April 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Cannell Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Everything
Weaknesses:
Nothing
Similar Products Used:
Other Marzocchi forks cause they are the best
Bike Setup:
Specialized Stumpjumper FSRxc '02, stock, Panaracers, XT cranks, Fox Float R, got rid of the sorry a#* stock RS Duke fork.
Bottom Line:
1 month ago after a year of riding the stock Rock Shox Duke fork, I decided it was time to upgrade to a real fork. I came to this site and saw the reviews for this fork. So far they have been right on the money. Plus, this fork looks great on my bike. This fork is a little heavier than my Duke. I had a Marzocchi on the bike before my Specialized. Why I didn't upgrade til now I don't know. I cannot believe how sturdy this fork is. It gives me utmost confidence up the hill then back down. I have to agree with all posters on the value of this fork. I cannot believe the amount I paid for the performance I am getting. Please, do yourself a favor and get a real fork while saving some money. Make sure you get one with ETA. My climbing performance has increase 10 fold with the front lowered by ETA. Keep the good reviews comin'. Marzocchi has a winner here with its MX line of forks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City, UT, USA Date Reviewed: April 9, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Wasatch Crest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$269.00
Purchased At:
Guthrie Bicycles (Same price as most online retailers)
Strengths:
ETA, smooth travel, it's black, it's Marzocchi,
Weaknesses:
Hmmmmmmmmm..... Nothing
Similar Products Used:
Rockshox Psylo XC , Manitou Black Comp 80-100
Bike Setup:
2001 Diamondback X-3 frame, Mavic 219's w/ XT disc hubs, Avid mech discs, Race Face Prodigy XC cranks, Conti Vertical Pro 2.3's, Sram 9.0 shifts and rear der, Marzocchi Comp w/ ETA of course
Bottom Line:
I really labored over what fork to buy this season. My local bike shop (Guthrie) recommended no other fork than Marzocchi. I almost bought an 02 Psylo at closeout becuase the price was right, but I'm so glad I went with Marzocchi. Honestly I would love to have 5 inches of adjustable travel, however the ETA Comp is all about QUALITY of travel rather than quantity. When the fork is locked to the 30mm setting it compliments my 4 inch FS bike perfectly on the long uphills. The 105 mm setting is way plush on the way back down.
TRUST THE REVIEWS ON THIS FORK!!!!!!!!!!!!!! There is no better adjustable fork on the market for this price ($269) with so much quality craftmanship and durability.
I am so stoked on Marzocchi's line of products. I hope to build a DH bike next year and I'm be runinng a Marzocchi on that too!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob The builder
a Weekend Warrior
from Wolverhampton Date Reviewed: March 30, 2003
Favorite Trail:
The Karrimore
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$260.00
Purchased At:
Cycle1st.com
Strengths:
Stiff, great travel, well made, fantastic ETA, Price.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
You name it.
Bike Setup:
Specialized M4 FSR, full XTR, Easton, Hope, 959s.
Bottom Line:
A great fork. The price is way too low for this quality. I would pay twice as much no probs to get this kind of action. Smooth, stiff, really well made, and the Extension Travel Control (ETA) is mega! The front gets dropped to 30 mil of travel. So no geometry probs and it climbs like a racing fork. Switch off the ETA and you get 105mil of super smooth downhill fork and you do it all while riding , non of this stop , get off the bike and twiddle a la Rockshox, this Marzocchi rocks! You want a do it all fork and a stunning price ....buy this.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Jacoby
a Weekend Warrior
from England Date Reviewed: March 25, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$259.00
Strengths:
Great tracking, very stiff, well built
Weaknesses:
stickers are weack
Similar Products Used:
Manitou 4, Manitou Mars Comp Coil; Magura O24U
Bike Setup:
Bulls Racing Pro 9.8, XT, Mavic 519,
Bottom Line:
This fork is great. After 1 season of using the Manitou Mars Comp Coil and trying a Mars 1 with Lockout, I changed to the Marzocchi and I am thrilled. A bit of sticking in the beginning went quickly, and the fork is in the league of the old Z2 Atom-Race, but with 105mm travel. It is the best fork I used, and with my 200 pds I do not need to change coils, as the Comp Coil has air-adjustment on the basis of low pressured air, much better and much more reliable than high pressured air like the Mars. The built quality is typical Marzocchi, forget Manitou, they became cheap and just business oriented. Also, support with Marzocchi is excellent! I phonod them directly in Italy, they speak English and inform you in the best way. Manitou was snotty and does not keep parts for older forks more than 2 years! Only Magura is on the same level, I use the O24U (meaning O2 for oxygen for you) on my fully, also a great fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bikezilla
a Cross Country Rider
from Cortland Manor, NY Date Reviewed: March 24, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anything in Blue Mountain
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$230.00
Purchased At:
www.bikenashbar.com
Strengths:
**Adjustable Spring Rate**, Stiff, relatively light, Adjustable height (ETA) Can handle heavy, agressive riders quite nicely.
Weaknesses:
A little stiction from the helper Air spring seals, at least at first.
Similar Products Used:
Rocksucks Mag-21 (all stiction, no travel), 2002 Judy-XC (Heavy, no stiction, no comp or rebd damping, no spring adjust)
Bike Setup:
Jamis Dakota-XC, Kore Stem, Cane Creek-C1 Headset (cheap & heavy) ~98 XTR Cranks, F-Mech, V-brakes, Shifters & levers. '95 LX-rear Mech (still works sweet, Believe it!) box-stock bars and seatpost, San Selle Flite saddle. Mavic 217 rims, Machine Tech Hollow Core front hub, Power Claw Rear hub (Silent and still works well)
Bottom Line:
Okay I only rode the fork for a couple of hours. And it took like 3.5 seconds to see this is an outstanding product.
Firstly, I weigh about 240lbs and I was able to pump up the preload air spring, (well below the maximum) and easily get the right amount of sag. The RockShox Judy-XC I had for a couple of months, could never be sprung properly. Even at the maximum recommended air preload, it was *always* way under-sprung, and I could bottom it out just standing on the ground, leaning over the bike and bouncing on the handlebars. RS does not offer stiffer springs for the XC, I called RS and they basically said I should have bought a better fork, so I did.
The MX-Comp starts out a little sticky even with good grease on the stanchions but quickly gets better after some riding. The ETA feature works quite well. It is very nice to lower the front end and stiffen up the fork for a steep climb. It seems a little sticky in the 30mm mode though. But again I haven’t given the fork any real break-in time yet, and stiffness on the climb eliminates bobbing. I even liked climbing with it in full travel mode. Note, the plastic ETA switch seems a little delicate considering how much it will get used, and where it is located.
The compression and rebound damping seemed spot-on for my tastes but then, I was riding some real crap before. But it really soaks up the hits and somehow completely masks the bottom-out point, even though I have it set up a little softer to compensate pre-break-in stiction. Takes small drop-hits like a slightly wet sponge, and does not bounce the handlebars back at you, and does not pack up on rapid bumps. The RS acted like it wanted to throw me off the bike. The Marzocchi MX-Comp makes the trail hits seem to vanish, until they hit the rear tire on my hard-tail.
This fork is a thousand times better than the 02 Judy-XC and naturally, the elderly Mag-21. I was really surprised by how much lighter it was, than the Judy-XC.
Anyone looking for a high quality, affordable fork that has outstanding performance needs to look no further. It really works like it should cost MUCH, MUCH more. The spring rate adjustability seems limitless.
I’ll write again after I have some more time on it, if I discover anything that needs to be said.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
paun felix
a Cross Country Rider
from hunedoara,romania Date Reviewed: March 23, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$360.00
Purchased At:
from hungary
Strengths:
wery good absortion of bumps,ETA is very well working,superbe "look",very stiff,it gives you confidence on the trails.
Weaknesses:
for me-none
Similar Products Used:
IN-SYNC 266 (suck's),Z1 Drop-Off-too big for cross riding,manitou sx-r-too soft for my 100 kilo's
Bike Setup:
magellan alu frame,xtr shifters,rear xtr,frontxt derailleur,xtr crank,deore mechanical disc(2002)
Bottom Line:
i spent on it my savings for almost half a year(i know it's cheap even at 360$ that i payed) but the feeling on the trails makes all the money.buy it now!it's the best for hard cross-country riders.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gordon
a Cross Country Rider
from Manchester Date Reviewed: March 22, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Skiddaw
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
Merlin
Strengths:
Well made, strong and it doesnt flex, it also tracks the ground really. 105mm of smooth and reliable travel. And it is very good value for money.
Weaknesses:
So far I cant find fault.
Similar Products Used:
Rockshox Psylo, Duke, Manitou Scareb and Black.
Bike Setup:
Scott FX 25. Shimano LX, Magura Discs,Mavic Crossrides, Easton stem and post.
Bottom Line:
Since I fitted this fork to my bike my riding has really improved. This fork gives you confidence because it really works well and you can depend on it. It worked straight from the box but it has got better the longer I ride it, sort of the opposite of the Rochshox. Its very smooth and it takes away the big hits and the small ones just as well. I havent done any servicing to it because it doesnt seem to need anything, just ride it. Its stiff and when I turn hard or brake hard on rocky stuff it stays stiff but smooth. I really think its a great fork with no problems and like other people have said I dont know how they do it for the money. It must be subsidised but who cares just go out and buy it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Chester Date Reviewed: March 19, 2003
Favorite Trail:
MBR
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
Cycle1st.com
Strengths:
Well made and rigid. Smooth travel. Fairly light for the travel (105mm). Excellent tracking and braking performance.
A fine fork! No independant leg movement, no tip flutter under hard braking, first class tracking over demanding terrain, very smooth and progressive travel without ramp-up on stutter bumps.The ETA is superb, it actually lowers the front end and gives you 30mm of travel and it really does work and you can do it "on-the-fly" no stopping to turn it on or off. The one question I want the answer to is....How can Marzocchi sell a fork of this incredable quality for so little, I mean it is a serious top class fork at a genuine budget price. If you need 105mm of quality fork get this!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Chester Date Reviewed: March 19, 2003
Favorite Trail:
MBR
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
Cycle1st.com
Strengths:
Well made and rigid. Smooth travel. Fairly light for the travel (105mm). Excellent tracking and braking performance.
A fine fork! No independant leg movement, no tip flutter under hard braking, first class tracking over demanding terrain, very smooth and progressive travel without ramp-up on stutter bumps.The ETA is superb, it actually lowers the front end and gives you 30mm of travel and it really does work and you can do it "on-the-fly" no stopping to turn it on or off. The one question I want the answer to is....How can Marzocchi sell a fork of this incredable quality for so little, I mean it is a serious top class fork at a genuine budget price. If you need 105mm of quality fork get this!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chad
a Cross Country Rider
from Fountain Valley, CA Date Reviewed: March 18, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Yes
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Looks, Marzocchi Reputation, travel, ETA
Weaknesses:
None yet - will post another review if I have any problems
Similar Products Used:
Manitou, Fox, Rock Shox
Bike Setup:
Aggressive XC components on 2002 GF Sugar 4+
Bottom Line:
This fork is not for downhilling. This fork is not for racing (unless you lose the weight elsewhere). This fork is not for pure freeride. This is an aggressive XC fork. This fork is perfect for riders 175 lbs or greater. I am a little concerned about one side air but I won't be doing crazy drop offs or anything. Should be ok. Anyway, I think it has some sort of system to lube the seals. Very strong, handles well, perfect amount of travel (105mm) for aggressive XC. No complaints as of yet but will surely re-post if anything. This fork has been and will continue to be put to the test. So far I love it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Wright
a Cross Country Rider
from Bristol Date Reviewed: March 16, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Marin. Betwys-coed
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Great build, very stiff with excellent travel and super smooth. Very good tracking, no independent leg movement, no tip flutter under hard braking and first class ETA system.
Weaknesses:
Fragile ETA lever.
Similar Products Used:
Most Marzocchi range, Manitou, Rockshox, Pace, RST, White Bros and Fox.
Bike Setup:
Kona Kikapu, Fox float R, Middleburn, XTR, EastonEA70, Mavic Crossmax XL UST with Hope Discs.
Bottom Line:
I do not work on the price but the performance of the product, but this fork is cheap and has a stunningly good performance. I am astonished at how well it works. It is super smooth, eats up the rough stuff, track brilliantly and the ETA...lock down is amazing. This fork does everything that it says it does and it is reliable. I cannot understand how Marzocchi can produce a product of this quality at such an amazingly low price. In short, if you want above average travel performance buy this!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from Las Vegas, NV Date Reviewed: March 6, 2003
Great product for a great price. I would have paid 400.00 for this fork. Even on ebay. Fork is very stiff at the top, but plush once you hit a bump. Perfect for my hardtail. Not some squishy fork like the Psylo my friend bought. Time to climb? Active ETA and lower the front. The fork does not lock out which is even better. My confidence has increased 10 fold over technical stuff, especially when I ride at Boulder City. At 35, I have been riding since suspension forks were invented. Marzocchi is the best fork manufacturer out there and this fork is proof why. A 400.00 fork that retails for 250.00. When you get your tax return buy one. Like the previous poster noted, get one before the price goes up. If you are looking at Psylo or Manitou Black, don't do it. Get the MX Comp w/ ETA.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jake
a Weekend Warrior
from Los Angeles Date Reviewed: March 5, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Price and performance, ETA lockout.
Weaknesses:
This fork's price tag is too cheap and makes performance oriented people shy awy from it. This fork should be priced much higher.
Bottom Line:
I like this fork a lot better than my Manitou. It feels heavy duty and stiff for heavy cross country. ETA lockout works!!! Better than Psylo which you have to turn the knob several time, with ETA just a flip and compress the fork. Grab this fork at a sub $250 price while you can, i have heard rumors that Marzzochi is raising the MSRP soon.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jamie Pembroke
a Cross Country Rider
from Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, UK Date Reviewed: February 28, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Leckhampton Hill
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Leisure Lakes
Strengths:
Where do I start?
Weaknesses:
Plastic ETA lever
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox Jett
Bike Setup:
GT 6061 Aluminium Frame, Deore drivetrain, LX brakes, GT 6061 bar and stem, SDG Comp saddle, Tioga factory tyres
Bottom Line:
Amazing forks. My old rock shox finally gave up last year after 2 years service. They were OK but not up to the job once I started getting more serious on those downhill single tracks. The ETA is great for steep climbs and one flick of that (plastic) switch and I was steaming down hills way faster than before. I am much more confident as a direct result of these forks. They absolutely eat boulders for breakfast. The one problem has been the switch coming loose so the forks stayed locked out. This is was my fault for forcing the switch beyong the point of no return. Shop soon fixed it and no problem since. These forks put many others, twice the price, to complete shame. BUY THEM!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a Cross Country Rider
from Oxnard, CA Date Reviewed: February 26, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Backbone, Mt. Pinos
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$269.00
Purchased At:
Jenson USA
Strengths:
Price, ETA, travel, handling, does not bottom out
Weaknesses:
None as of yet
Similar Products Used:
Several
Bike Setup:
Black '02 Turner XCE, Hayes HFX Comp, Mavic X317 Disc, Raceface, Azonic, Easton, WTB Laser
Bottom Line:
Looks like we have an early candidate for the choice award! Just reading through the reviews and everyone loves this fork. So do I. Built my bike up mostly from discounted purchases in the Supergo Retail store. However, I read about the 2003 Marzocchi Line of forks in the October 2002 Mountain Bike Action magazine. They are basically a less expensive, slightly heavier version of the Marathon. And probably stronger. After spending almost 2k to build my bike, the money was running out and I still needed a fork. This one fit the bill. I have no regrets what so ever. This fork has stood up to everything I have thrown at it. The control over technical terrain, especially when descending, is amazing. I have never ridden a fork that handles better. When it is time to climb, the ETA (not a lockout) lowers the front of the bike but leaves some travel. I cannot speak any higher of this fork. Everytime I this fork I feel like I spent $600.00. I didn't spend half of that. Don't waste your money on a Fox or Manitou. What you are looking for is right here. I guarantee this time next year there will be a little r next to this fork on the review page. It has my vote for the choice award. Ride on.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jorge Vega
a Cross Country Rider
from Puerto Rico Date Reviewed: February 25, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$249.00
Purchased At:
speedgoat
Strengths:
Stiff,plush ride,ETA and feels great in all conditions. Very important LOCK OUT
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox Sid 2000
Bike Setup:
Giant NRS 2002,this fork,Easton CT2,Race Face Next LP Cranks,SRAM Rocket 9 speed and Time ATAC pedals.
Bottom Line:
This fork is great. With this fork you can feel the diference that give you a REAL FORK. I higly recommend this fork to anyone looking for a excellent fork with 105mm of travel,ETA and lock out at an excellent price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chance Richie
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin, TX Date Reviewed: February 23, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Emma Long
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$279.00
Purchased At:
Mystic Cycles
Strengths:
ETA, ETA, ETA. Oh, and it looks good.
Weaknesses:
I'm splitting hairs, but maybe the lack of adjustability (which I probably wouldn't use anyway)and the plastic ETA lever.
Similar Products Used:
Manitou
Bike Setup:
2001 Enduro tricked out with Chris King and Raceface
Bottom Line:
This fork rocks for the money. The ETA is awesome and works really well. I use my bike as an all-a-rounder, so I appreciate the ETA when riding on rough roads because it still gives a little bit of travel. It is awesome on the rough stuff. Did I mention the price? What a great price for such a great product. I originally wanted an '03 Fox, but couldn't ever get one. Glad I didn't.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Benedict
a Weekend Warrior
from Philly, PA Date Reviewed: February 19, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Wissahickon
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$269.00
Purchased At:
PricePoint
Strengths:
Sturdy, durable, looks great, travel, ETA
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox, Fox Forx, Marzocchi Marathon
Bike Setup:
2001 Trek Fuel 90, this fork, Easton Monkeylites, LX, XT and Bontranger Components
Bottom Line:
This fork is great fork aggressive XC riding. As a city slicker I need a strong fork when I head for the hills to ride. Lots of rocks on the east coast and this fork sucks them up. I have only had a chance to ride it 5-6 times since all of the snow we have gotten but I have had no problems. Previous poster mentioned ETA switch braking. I can see that happening but it still seems pretty strong even though it is plastic. All I know is that Marzocchi has put a high end fork on the market for a reasonable price. I am on my third bike in 7 years and have tried several different forks. If what I have described above is your riding style and you are looking for a high quality fork for under 300.00 this fork is for you. 5 Flaming terds all around for an excellent fork. Way to go Marzocchi!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Scottsdale, AZ Date Reviewed: February 19, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Excellent fork, smooth ride
Weaknesses:
Plastic ETA lever
Bottom Line:
This happened on the fifth ride with my new fork. I had reached the top of a long, steady climb and was facing some fast downhill, so I went to flip the switch back to full travel and the little plastic ETA lever broke right off. I took it back to the shop where I bought it and they contacted Marzocchi for me. They're replacing it with a metal lever free of charge - the shop said they've seen this happen before with this fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve So. Cal
a
from mtnbyk@hotmail.com Date Reviewed: February 16, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$239.00
Purchased At:
Adrenaline Bikes
Strengths:
Very plush, easy to climb with when ETA is in use
Weaknesses:
Maybe weight, but if you are looking for fork like this who really cares.
Similar Products Used:
Rockshox, White Brothers
Bike Setup:
Giant XTC DS-2, XT, raceface, thomson, hayes disc, Fox shock with lockout
Bottom Line:
First ride on this fork today. Incredible ride, very plush on the downhill. I hit some knarly rock gardens and I just flew right through it. I had to climb 11 miles of fireroad to get to our secret singletrack and with the fork in the ETA position and the rear locked up it felt good on the climb. I did 4.5 miles of downhill faster than ever! Buy this fork if you are even slightly thinking about it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Cross Country Rider
from Torrance Date Reviewed: February 14, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Strengths:
Stiff, plush and the ETA lockout
Weaknesses:
none so far
Bottom Line:
Probably the best value fork out there. The ETA is amazing on climbs and is easy to activate. Unlike Psylo which you have to stop and turn 10 times to shorten the travel and then lock it up, ETA you just flip the lever and stand up and press the fork. Now you have a shortened travel with just the right amount of cush to help you climb. Works wonders for tight switchbacks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DM
a Cross Country Rider
from Orange County, CA Date Reviewed: February 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Singletrack
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Stiff, ETA, 105mm travel
Weaknesses:
Plastic ETA lever?
Similar Products Used:
Rock Shox Judy XC, Rock Shox Psylo XC, Manitou Black Comp 80/100
Bike Setup:
'02 NRS2 stock except for this fork, Deore Hubs, Hayes HFX Comp Hydraulic, RaceFace Bars, Easton Stem/Post
Bottom Line:
I bought this fork based on the 2002 reviews (those had ECC) and the Marzocchi reputation and it is paying its dividends. This is the best fork I have ever ridden. One side is coil spring, the other is air. The fork has minimal sag, especially compared to my Psylo, but is perfectly active over the rough stuff. ETA rules. What this does is lower the geometry of the fork for climbing but allows 30mm of travel to soak up the small stuff. It makes my NRS2 climb even better than it did before. The ETA lever is plastic but seems pretty strong. It is easy to just reach down, flip the switch and drop or extend your fork. So much better than U-turn. So far 105mm has been plenty of travel. At my weight (215 lbs.)I needed a fork that did not bottom out easily. I have put some hard rides on this fork, some jumps, some 1-2 ft. drop offs and no bottoming.
This fork is a cross between a free ride fork and an XC fork. It weighs just over four pounds. It is perfect for Southern CA or anyplace where you climb switchbacks or fire roads then singletrack back down. I highly recommend this fork to anyone looking for a quality fork at an excellent price. I feel like a kid with a brand new toy every time I ride.
If you are thinking about purchasing this fork, you have my thumbs up. The Marzocchi website is also very informative. There is a lot of technical jargon with this fork but there website does a good job of explaining exactly how the fork works. See you on the trails!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Angeles Date Reviewed: February 10, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Perfect fork for a trail rider. ETA lockout rocks. Marzocchi!! Heavy duty.
Weaknesses:
Definately not a sub 4 lbs. fork. But I will trade weight for durability anytime. Noisy when compressed at rest but not noticeble when riding...or maybe I just need to break it in more.
Similar Products Used:
Rockshock Sid, Manitou Mars, SX, X-Vert, Marzocchi Atom 80.
Bottom Line:
For those of you ever climbed Mt. Wilson fire road in San Garbriel mountains, you will love the ETA lockout. ETA lockout not only makes the head angle steeper so you don't have to work as hard weighing the front end, it gives you 1.5 cm of suspension for more control. Previous reviewers complained about not having all the adjustment knobs other more expensive forks have. My take on this is that how many of you actually stop to adjust the rebound, compression, negative pressure on trail? Trail surface changes all the time, do you stop every 200 ft to change your fork setting? Even if you do, how many of you actually can tell the difference? Without having those martketing-hyped adjustment options, this fork comes at a right price!! And you know you are getting a durable fork because it is a Marzocchi!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ollapod
a Cross Country Rider
from Cleburne, TX Date Reviewed: February 6, 2003
Favorite Trail:
dinosaur valley, cleburne state park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$249.00
Purchased At:
speedgoat.com
Strengths:
- smooth, smooth, smooth - soaks up small stuff really well - soaks up big stuff really well
Weaknesses:
- I guess weight - longer throw changed my geometry a little, but I just had to adjust.
Similar Products Used:
crappy RST, Judy TT
Bike Setup:
GT I-Drive Team, LX mostly
Bottom Line:
Great shock. I didn't realize what I was missing riding that old Judy TT. I rode it easy for a week or so, but then yesterday I just pushed it hard, and it took everything in stride. You don't feel the small stuff, and it just "keeps on keeping on" with the big stuff.
I didn't think about it changing the geometry of the bike by being longer (105mm), but after I adjusted I love it.
I didn't think I would use the lockout, but with a long grinding climb it really comes in handy, and it switchs off with a flick of the lever. Way easy.
www.speedgoat.com was great, and it's pretty cool that Roz from Monsters INC. answers the phones.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
nat
a Cross Country Rider
from Larkspur, CA Date Reviewed: January 18, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Moon Point
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$209.00
Purchased At:
Adrenaline Bikes
Strengths:
Smooth, consistant performance regardless of abuse level(so far) Coil spring in one leg, air in the other, 105mm stroke provides sweet performance over a variety of terrain. How can you wrong for this price?
Weaknesses:
A bit heavy, but so what...figure out the dollar to weight ratio. Not as adjustable as it could be.
Similar Products Used:
X-Fly 100, Jr. T, Dirt Jumper, Fox Vanilla 120
Bike Setup:
Ventana El Saltamontes--always at 5" travel setting, XT/XTR, Race Face crank/bb,syncros stem/post, Formula disc, XT/Mavic 321
Bottom Line:
Again, not the lightest or most adjustable fork, but it's tough, plush and cheap--a trifecta not often encountered in the world of mt. bike parts.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a Cross Country Rider
from Rocklin, Ca Date Reviewed: January 8, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Foresthill divide loop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$259.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint
Strengths:
Feels like butter, has a lock-out, and also has a perfect amount of travel. Feels great in all conditions.
Weaknesses:
A bit heavy, have not found any weaknesses yet have only riden it about twenty to thirty times.
Bike Setup:
SantaCruz single speed with a 517 Mavic hoop and Spot hubs.Avid ti brakes with Irc mythos cx tires(best all around)
Bottom Line:
So far I have not had a problem with the fork, after a year or two I may have a different opinion. I have ridden it all over the state of California and it has performed well in all the different conditions. The lock-out works very well and has the thirty mm of travel while locked-out. I have been happy so far.You can get it at Speedgoat for 249.00 with free shipping. I would suggest it to anyone except a weight weenie.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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