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Submitted by
cameron
a Cross Country Rider
from knoxville,tennessee,usa
Date Reviewed: June 21, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | street | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | my neighbor gave them to me..... | | Strengths: | cheap,sturdy,good travel | | Weaknesses: | none really | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | saddleback gt | | Bottom Line: | prolly the good shiz nit..good for road runners and begenors. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a
from Toronto
Date Reviewed: April 1, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Purchased At: | Silent Sports | | Strengths: | Never broke. No maintenance. It works. | | Weaknesses: | Stiffens in cold weather. | | Bike Setup: | 1997 Rocky Mountain Oxygen Race | | Bottom Line: | They came with the bike. I've been ridig on them since 1997. I've never put one once of energy on maintaining them. I've rode them in awful conditions and they are still going. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MTB Rider
a Weekend Warrior
from Northern CA
Date Reviewed: May 24, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$145.00 | | Purchased At: | Jenson USA | | Strengths: | Simple, durable, cheap on Ebay. | | Weaknesses: | Heavy, limited travel. Stiffens in the cold. No damping. | | Similar Products Used: | Judy T2, Manitou FS-Ti, Quadra 5. | | Bike Setup: | 1997 GT Timberline, stock setup. | | Bottom Line: | I bought this fork to replace the rigid fork on my GT. It has worked well for street riding, but is not very plush for the trails. If you can find it cheap and ride on paved trails only, it would be a good choice. Otherwise go for something with damping if you're going to go off-road. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
nash
a Weekend Warrior
from newport news
Date Reviewed: April 7, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | came on bike | | Strengths: | maintence free, simple, reliable, plush even though elastometer. they do not work well in cold weather. | | Weaknesses: | out dated, but excellent for being olds skool forks. | | Similar Products Used: | indy s, judy | | Bike Setup: | 98 rockhopper, deore mix, selle italle, STX, panaracer, cane creek, kore | | Bottom Line: | great shocks. sure they're outdated now but i never had any problems. i swapped out for more travel. awesome trail shocks. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrés Advis
a Weekend Warrior
from Santiago, Chile
Date Reviewed: December 2, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$170.00 | | Purchased At: | Importadora Caupolicán | | Strengths: | Rigidez, aspecto, buena en grandes saltos | | Weaknesses: | Ajuste muy mal (diales no sirven), ninguna sensibilidad en pequeños saltos, viene sin ningún kit de ajuste a tu peso. Muy rebotona. | | Similar Products Used: | Sr Sakae (Hecha en Japón) | | Bike Setup: | GT Ricochet 1997 (originalmente venía con una RS Indy C), Alivio, STX, Mavic 238, etc.. | | Bottom Line: | Es una suspensión muy cara para lo que ofrece. Me parece que al comprar esta supensión estás pagando la marca. Creo que mejor sería juntar más dinero y comprar una Marzocchi, he recibido muy buenos comentarios de ésta última. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tommy Sutcliffe
a Cross Country Rider
from Poland ohio
Date Reviewed: April 25, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | vultures knob | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Purchased At: | cycle sales | | Strengths: | its work almost flawless for 6 years. travel is great. moderatly easy to adjust | | Weaknesses: | flexes (alot)...ticking noise when climbing...definatly comes from the fork | | Similar Products Used: | many | | Bike Setup: | old | | Bottom Line: | Well ive had it for 6 years...and yes there have been some problems...but for a low end fork....it has stood the test of time. and to me that is really important. I have the long travel version of the fork so travel is no issue....you can adjust the spring tension and it performs well in most xc riding....in an insane dropoff it might not be the best...but for xc riding this fork will get the job done....but they dont make them anymore...ebay has alot of used ones though | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Barry
a Weekend Warrior
from Victoria Australia
Date Reviewed: March 16, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Any | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Purchased At: | Cam on bike | | Strengths: | It goes up and down, doesn't want to break | | Weaknesses: | Doesn't work in cold weather, very flexible, top caps round off easily, heavy | | Similar Products Used: | 00 Manitou Magnum, 98 Marzocchi Z2 Flylight, 02 RS Judy TT, 01 RS Judy C, 02 RS Judy SL, 00 Marzocchi Z5 Qr20 and Air, RST Hi5 (aaggh), 01 RS Sid 100, 02 Fox Float 100RL, 02 RS Boxxer, the list goes on... | | Bike Setup: | 99 Raceline Expert hardtail set up as light duty freerider | | Bottom Line: | These days its a cheap fork, on warm days it will take the edge of trail buzz. Extremely flexy but doesn't seem to want to break. I have video footage of me riding through a big ditch and you can actualy see the fork bending backwards... It is a simple fork so it is easy to maintain if you have a huge long hex key. Looks ok if you like the minimalist look, it sort of looks like a sid in build shape/size but weighs about five times as much. It does have a XC feel to it but have done 2m drop off on it and it survived (not recomending it though!). So yeah, if it's on a cheap second hand bike and is still in decent condition buy it, it's better than a lot of alternatives... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rick
a Weekend Warrior
from Honolulu, Hawaii
Date Reviewed: January 14, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Anything in Hawaii | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$90.00 | | Purchased At: | McCully Bikes, Honolulu | | Strengths: | 1" threaded steer tube. Good luck trying to find one these days. | | Weaknesses: | None so far | | Bike Setup: | '95 Cannondale F200 hard tail | | Bottom Line: | Went riding the other day only to find my '95 Manitou 4 was completely hosed. No replacement parts available anywhere. Thought I was going to have to junk the bike. But I found a new '98 Indy XC in the back bin. Threw it on, replaced my cantelievers with "V"s and now my mount feels nearly new. Lot's of travel, bouncy, pogo-fun, compared to what I was used to. What a diff. from my original fork. Though I must admit, that pearl yellow, $2,500 Cannondale with hydralic disks and extreme suspension was talking to me, romancing me....LOUDLY. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Saratoga
Date Reviewed: October 27, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Bike Setup: | GT Karakoram | | Bottom Line: | Just bought this fork, well it came with the bike. Sort of pleased but I wanna know if it's broken because I can't control the travel. I would also like to know if it has a lockout feature?If you have any suggestions please email me at COOP742@aol.com | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
greg
a Cross Country Rider
from FL go gators!
Date Reviewed: June 25, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | all | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$100.00 | | Purchased At: | mt. constance in wa. | | Strengths: | light, used to match my paint | | Weaknesses: | really flexible | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | 97 klein pulse race. | | Bottom Line: | original fork. thrashed on for past 5 years. hasn't broke yet. grey plastic caps rounded off quickly. my fork set up: soft spring and stock mcu in right leg only. that's right. i said i only use one spring and mcu stack. preload is at zero. rebound is really high. still not plush enough. feels like pogo stick. i still don't bottom it out. i weigh 165lbs. i think i've finally outgrown this fork. money's burning hole in cycling shorts. upgrading to marzocchi mxr.
stock weight: 3.8 lbs
stock travel: 63mm
four nukes falling on bin laden for never leaving me stranded.
three nukes for putting up with this pogo for so very long.
seeing the light and getting a marzocchi: priceless. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Ann Arbor
Date Reviewed: April 20, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | ummmm, it works? | | Weaknesses: | I got this bike when I was in the 6th grade (in 10th now). It was very stiff for me, and not very responsive. Hard to get it to go into its travel. | | Similar Products Used: | Indy C, Fox Float | | Bike Setup: | old bike was a 1998 Trek 7000 stock. New bike 2002 specialized SJ comp. | | Bottom Line: | Didn't like this to much at all. Still kinda hard for me to get it to go into its travel. Now I am about 40lbs more, and about 8 inches more in height. I still think that it sucks. Alright for e begginers. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pascal
a Racer
from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: March 9, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Powerline | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$200.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycle Bertrand | | Strengths: | Light, low maintenance, cheap, nice stickers :) | | Weaknesses: | Crud adjustment, flexy, opposite of plush etc etc... | | Similar Products Used: | Rock Shox Jett XC, Judy XC, Sid XC, SL, Judy TT, Z2 Dropoff, Z5, Z3.5, Monster T, MXC | | Bike Setup: | Kona Fire Mountain (for winter), Kona Pahoehoe w/ Hayes Disc and MXC air | | Bottom Line: | This is an OK entry level fork but not a bargain for it's performance...
Looks kinda cool though :) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff Elliott
a Racer
from Calgary,Alberta,Canada
Date Reviewed: November 20, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | The Pretzel | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$200.00 | | Purchased At: | Bow Cycle | | Strengths: | I have had these for a while and i find they are very good.
they can do quite a bit for a xc rider or free rider, but i am looking for something else because i am going to do some down hill. | | Weaknesses: | has none really | | Similar Products Used: | none. | | Bike Setup: | Gary Fisher
Full Suspention | | Bottom Line: | i think their good shox but there are better out there | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lauren
a Cross Country Rider
from Asheville
Date Reviewed: November 16, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$100.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Has lasted 3 years with minimal maintainance, good travel, easy adjustment, easy to break down | | Weaknesses: | Can get a little stiff when cold or dirty, boots don't stay on well. | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | 1996 Fisher Aquila | | Bottom Line: | I have ridden on the fork for more than three years and have been incredibly pleased. I am a 215 pound rider and have absolutely abused this fork without the first hint of a problem...and it is still going strong! I know they don't make them anymore, but if you get a used bike or something with this fork, count yourself has lucky!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dr. Love
a Cross Country Rider
from Orono
Date Reviewed: June 4, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Ganaraska | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Purchased At: | Bicycles Plus (oshawa) | | Strengths: | 80mm of travel (long travel), doesn't flex much, takes a beating, low/no maintance! | | Weaknesses: | Pretty Stiff at first (softens up nicely in time tho) | | Bottom Line: | This fork is great for what you pay for it! I've beat the living hell out of it for the past 2 years without hardly any maintance (other than keeping it nice and clean)! It definitely outperformed my expectations. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Evan Fedorko
a Cross Country Rider
from Morgantown, WV, US
Date Reviewed: June 4, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Tsali, NC | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$100.00 | | Purchased At: | Slightly used. | | Strengths: | This is an XC fork. Period, end of story. If you are reading this because you want a fork to blow down the side of a mountain in Tibet doing giant acid drops and 45 mph wheelies, go read something else. However, this fork will thrill you to death if you are looking for a mid grade XC fork for a mid grade XC bike. The rice is right, it does the job in spades, and it will add a lot to your setup. It is dependable and will increase control if used correctly. It made it through Tsali without any errors! | | Weaknesses: | Not the most adjustable fork on the market. | | Similar Products Used: | Old crappy no-names. Couple of Manitous and other Rock Shox. | | Bike Setup: | Mongoose Rockadile SX circa 199- Old, but heavily upgraded, customized, etc. But alas, it will be dead soon, I feel. | | Bottom Line: | If you ride XC and you're on a budget this is a hell of a deal. I honestly don't think you can beat it for the price. But remember, this ain't a Marzocchi! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
reid macdoanld
a Weekend Warrior
from burlington ontario canada
Date Reviewed: February 25, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | kelso | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$75.00 | | Purchased At: | - | | Strengths: | none really goes down more than rst but not much | | Weaknesses: | everything not enough travel, nothing good about it would probably break if i did huge drop offs | | Similar Products Used: | rockshox jett | | Bike Setup: | mongoose pro nx8-3 upgraded everything except shock | | Bottom Line: | this shick is junk though you cant buy it in stores anymore if you think you want it dont get it | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jay Bolhuis
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto
Date Reviewed: February 19, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Kelso | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$100.00 | | Purchased At: | Braun's | | Strengths: | Low Maintenance
Relatively light
Durable
Simple
Never bottoms
Good value | | Weaknesses: | Low travel
Not the plushest
Flexes a little too much | | Similar Products Used: | Tried just about everything | | Bike Setup: | Rocky Hammer, RF crankset, Syncros stem/post/bar | | Bottom Line: | Came with the bike, I thought, "I'll get a new one the second I have enough $"; never had to get the new one. For my purposes it works just fine. I threw on a brake booster to rigidify it a little more, and I have no complaints. Probably wouldn't want to go crazy on it, but if you're sane then you won't be held back by this fork. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
john johnstone
a Cross Country Rider
from Raleigh, NC
Date Reviewed: January 19, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | New Light | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$100.00 | | Purchased At: | Bikes USA | | Strengths: | Still working after two years | | Weaknesses: | Tons 'O' Flex | | Bike Setup: | Trek 7000 | | Bottom Line: | My bike came equipped with this fork. I figured I would replace it when it wore out and it's still going after 2 years. They don't make these any more and I'm just now replacing it but I had to give credit where it is due. I weigh 190 lbs.and I have beat the living hell out of these shocks on the tightest most technical single-track in this area for almost two years. 0 maintenance, 0 failures, 0 upgrades. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan S
a Cross Country Rider
from Kirtland, OH
Date Reviewed: October 18, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Purchased At: | Stock on Bike | | Strengths: | Affordable and decent performance | | Weaknesses: | Stock spring/elastomer stack set up for 135 lb rider. | | Bike Setup: | GT with STX-RC and LX components | | Bottom Line: | A lot of posts regarding the Indy XC indicate that the fork is too "flexy". While I agree that the stiffness could be better, the XC is not that bad. In the June '97 issue of Bicycling magazine, they compared this fork with others from White Brothers, Answer/Manitou, RST, Girvin and Marzocchi (priced from $170 to $699). One of the tests was for stiffness. Of all of the telescoping forks, the XC was tied for being the stiffest. That's not bad at all -- especially considering the price range of the forks involved.
The stock elastomer/spring stack is set up for a rider weighing less than 150 lbs -- if you weigh more, I would suggest changing the stack. Most good bike shops can help with this and there should be minimal cost involved. I actually went a step further and opted for Eko (Englund) air cartridge inserts. These are tunable, save some weight and offer better damping control than the stock stack. The combination makes an average fork a better than average performer. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a Weekend Warrior
from Kelowna, Canada
Date Reviewed: October 14, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | dr.KNOW in Crawford | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$100.00 | | Purchased At: | a friends house | | Strengths: | Takes a lot beating and is still working quite well, quite light, and holds up against 7' drops!!! | | Weaknesses: | the crown bottoms out on a 2.25 tire!! springs wear out really fast, flexy. | | Similar Products Used: | quadra 21 r, some rst forks | | Bike Setup: | Head heavy metal, nothing stock on it | | Bottom Line: | this fork is invinsible, i've done 6' and 7' drops and it hasn't hardly bent. i would not recommed this fork for anybody over 160 lbs (too flexy). But if you want a reliable fork that is light this is the way to go..and they are really cheap (and available in 1") | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ronen
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney NSW Australia
Date Reviewed: September 2, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Bayside Extremeties | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$100.00 | | Purchased At: | Maroubra Cycles :( | | Strengths: | Good All-round shocks. Great for begginers. Have that "hmmm these are my babies" feel to them. | | Weaknesses: | No oil dampening, the INDY range shows quite a lot of flex.
Shocks soften at an exponential rate. | | Similar Products Used: | Marzocchi Z3 Atom Bombs, Manitou Magnum R, Rock Shocks INDY C, RST 281's (CRAP) | | Bike Setup: | Mongoose NX 7.3, Manitou Magnum R forks. WTB Laser beam rear rim, LX- STX RC setup, Oury Grips, Kore Stem
WTB Velociraptor tires All the way | | Bottom Line: | Good Shocks, Good Price, Nice feel....for a while. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon
a Downhiller
from england
Date Reviewed: September 2, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Bottom Line: | awful forks.they are sh*t.next time u are out on them hold the front brake and push forward and watch the brace flexing.they flex way too much.if you dont have a lot of money for forks by some of the marzocchi z5's.they are amazing for the money. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
petrol
a Weekend Warrior
from richmond, va
Date Reviewed: August 25, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | dirt, ruts & rocks | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Purchased At: | came with bike | | Strengths: | cheap, durable | | Weaknesses: | travel, rebound | | Similar Products Used: | to many | | Bike Setup: | hardtail | | Bottom Line: | a great fork for the beginner / intermediate / occassional rider. you can take this fork anywhere and it will work, it will have it's limits but durablity is not one of them.
i rode mine hard for over two years without so much as cleaning it much less lubing it. i replaced it 3 months ago with a SX-R (way nice, $199) but the budget minded could get another indy XC for $60, what a deal. i would recommend any one with an old ridged fork ride to step up with the very few bucks this cost and get into the 19 century | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Ivoryton, CT, USA
Date Reviewed: August 7, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | Great value for an overall good fork. Very easy maintenance. Fairly light. | | Weaknesses: | No damping. Small bit of flex in the fork. | | Bike Setup: | Mongoose Zero G-SX. Shimano STX-RC - XT parts. | | Bottom Line: | A very good fork if you treat it well. I've taken it EVERYWHERE even on technical downhill courses and worked great. When removing the plastic top caps, though, be careful not to slip and ruin the grip. They're cheap to replace but a pain to remove. As long as you use Slick Honey to lube them up occasionally, you will always have a good ride. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul
a Cross Country Rider
from Tehachapi
Date Reviewed: August 7, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Various in SoCal & Marin | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Price (value); ease of routine maitainance. | | Weaknesses: | Flexy legs; hissing sound (even with fresh lube). | | Similar Products Used: | Original "Rock Shox" & Judy | | Bike Setup: | Steel hardtail | | Bottom Line: | Since this fork isn't made anymore and there aren't any left for sale (that I've seen), this late review isn't going to help/change much. I wanted to write it though, because after reading a bunch of the negative reviews, one thing is painfully clear: these people didn't fit their Indy XC with the right internals, and they didn't set up their shock well (probably at all). If you're not in the standard weight AND riding range for the stock fork, you have to get the right elastomer/spring/preload adjuster to make this thing work right. I weigh 185 and had to get new springs (free from RS) and set the whole thing up from scratch. Now it works pretty well (for an inexpensive, basic fork). It's pathetic to not take the most basic responsibility for your own gear and then blame the gear. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alec Mackenzie
a Cross Country Rider
from Bowdoinham, Maine, USA
Date Reviewed: July 4, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Any hard riding XC trail | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Cheap
Relativly long travel
Little maintance
Adjustable
Rugged | | Weaknesses: | Idependant shock movement - the two shocks move indpedantly slightly, if you have crappy hubs and ride on hard trails, you will bend your spocks horible and destroy your wheel as I did. However this takes a lot of hard trail riding, and could be avoided by using something like a brake booster. | | Similar Products Used: | Jetts, SIDs, Man. Magnum. | | Bike Setup: | It is (or was :) and old LL Bean Aproach. For those of you who don't now what that is, it is an older bike that LL Bean used to make that is decent for riding on the road, and fire roads, but nothing to hard. | | Bottom Line: | This is a very durable cross between the low end jett and the higher judy, basically offering the travel of the judy with the price slightly more then the jett. Its not the plushest of shocks, but they will take a beating with little or no maintaince. Worth every penny. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben Morris
a Weekend Warrior
from Stamford, LINCS, England
Date Reviewed: May 26, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Street | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Light, good dampning, look cool | | Weaknesses: | Elastomer, no disc mounts, | | Similar Products Used: | A bomber fork | | Bike Setup: | Done up Radford commanche | | Bottom Line: | Good stuff | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sam Williams
a Racer
from Peterborough, lincs, England
Date Reviewed: May 24, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Hinchingbrooke Park | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | Ultra light, amazing value, good dampening, easy to use preload adjusters, long travel, great looks | | Weaknesses: | no disc mounts, elastomer | | Similar Products Used: | Marzocchi Bomber Monster T | | Bike Setup: | Marin Mount Vision Pro, full XTR | | Bottom Line: | AMAZING!!!! I've never rode a better fork, and take it from me, i'm a pro racer. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jiveturkey
a Cross Country Rider
from turkey
Date Reviewed: April 27, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | cheap cheap cheap | | Weaknesses: | elastomer, size, weight... | | Bottom Line: | Well, here's a tip to make this one better.
The indy has little dampening for rebound and no control on it. Unless...
pneumatic damping: (Here's what I got from a web site, written by a guy calling himself D8)
"When a fork compresses, air that is inside
compresses, adding resistance to the compression and causing a quicker
rebound stroke. But by drilling small (1/16" or smaller) vent holes in the
bottom of the sliders you allow this air to escape during the compression stroke
(faster) and creating an effect like a vacuum during the rebound (sucking air
back in) that slows the rebound. This is pneumatic damping. Almost any elastomer
fork can use this modification. It will void many warranties though, and while
manitou has themselves at various times suggested doing it, no one else has
(and the magazines tend to flip-flop on it, in one issue they say to do it,
and in another they say not to do it - MBA springs to mind).
To perform this modification, all you need is an electric drill, a 1/16" or
smaller high-speed steel drill bit, and some patience (don't rush). The
procedure is simple... drill a small hole in the bottom of each slider, usually
next to the dropouts (on forks that use inline dropouts like rockshox) or
just off the centerline of forks with offset dropouts (like manitous). Be careful
not to drill thru the area where the mounting bolts go on many forks.
After you drill the drain holes you can expect to also suffer from having debris
sucked up during wet conditions. How much is sucked in depends on the size of
the hole and if your riding the bike completely submerged in mud/water up to
the dropouts or not. If its just raining hard and you have 1/32" drain holes,
them don't worry about it.
Myself I've performed this Mod. on Manitou 1s and Tange struts and shockblades.
It'll also work on Manitou M-Sports, and many other short stack elastomer/spring
forks where alot of the interior is just empty space. As I recall, quadra's
don't have much excess space so probably won't benefit from this mod.
Manitou 3 owners should try this mod as I've found that the seals (even with
boots) on M3s are only good enough to trap water in the legs, not keep it out.
A very important fringe benefit to this modification, is that the ingress
and egress of fresh air into the sliders will keep the elastomers cool. This
is important consideration with older model, short-stack elastomer forks
as its common for the elastomers to generate too much internal heat during
the course of riding on rough terrain where you see frequent large impacts
(elastomers dampen the motion of the fork by converting the energy to heat)
and as a result, actually melt inside the fork legs.
http://infoweb.magi.com/~kroberge/damp.html
With this, I will give this $70 fork a 4 in performance. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
C. Klein
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle
Date Reviewed: March 14, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | It works, and it's lighter than Judy | | Weaknesses: | It flexes and legs can move independently of each other | | Similar Products Used: | rigid CrMo mtb fork | | Bottom Line: | People seem to have a love/hate relationship with this fork. Considering the fact that it is a budget suspension fork, I don't see what the fuss is all about. It wasn't designed to outperform Judy, Marzocchi, etc. so I don't expect it to be the best fork out there. Learning to ride trails on a rigid fork may make me biased, but I figure as long as it takes the hard hits without sending me over the bars, it works. It's held up well after a couple races. So, 5 chilis for doing it job only because I haven't ridden better forks. Whatever. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Steamboat/Littleton
Date Reviewed: March 12, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | "Manor House" | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | Stiff (at first)
sorta light (if you care about that)
Realible
CHEAP!!!!
| | Weaknesses: | NO DAMPINING (if you weigh over 135 it sucks)
NOT PLUSH at all (compared to z1/2/3 or Judy Race/XC SID)
"Bounces" your front up out of small hits such as drainage canals
| | Similar Products Used: | Judy XC Judy C BOmber Z3 | | Bike Setup: | Fisher Hoo Koo E Koo | | Bottom Line: | It sucks unless you dont ride a lot or like heavy rigid forks. Also, make sure if you own one not to try any of the forks listed above you will never ever want to ride your fork AGAIN. You will realize it just keeps your wheel in off the surface due to lack of dampening. It is good for begginers, a XC rider that doesn't want a high mantance fork, or a CHEAPY. DONT TRY RIDING ON FAST ROCKY DOWNHILL DESCENTS... YOU CANT ENVEN SEE DUE TO THE CRAPENESS OF THE SUSPENSION YOUR HEAD IS LIKE A RAG DOLL...BONG BONG... BLURRY VISION. The differnce between this and a better fork of 99 or 00 is like the differnce of a Hyunda (I cant even spell it) and a BMW
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Caribou
Date Reviewed: March 8, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | does it jobs pretty well, It is better than allot of people would have others believe, if maintained well. | | Weaknesses: | for the price none. | | Similar Products Used: | Manitou 2 and other Rock Shoxs. | | Bike Setup: | Bridgestone Mb-1, XT, Grafton cranks, Bullseye hubs. | | Bottom Line: | Well to be honest bought it casue my headset is 1 inch and it was pretty much all i could find to fit it, It has caused me no troubles in the two years I have had it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ms. Crabtree
a Cross Country Rider
from NY
Date Reviewed: February 15, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Bethpage | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | It works and lasts. Very little maitenance | | Weaknesses: | Flexy front. Lacks pazazz | | Bike Setup: | 1993 Trek 930 LX XT | | Bottom Line: | I beat the hell out of this thing. No problems. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sven
a Cross Country Rider
from Minnesota
Date Reviewed: February 12, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | the next one | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | simplicity, cost, durability, reliability, good karma | | Weaknesses: | steel steerer, no real dammping,completely useless preload knobs. | | Similar Products Used: | 97 Judy(worst fork ever?)98 manitou sxr,rigid cro-mo(for those who know) | | Bike Setup: | this indy (one of the first) is mated to a steel team stumpy (hell yeah) | | Bottom Line: | I have been totaly blown away by this fork. i put it on the team stumpy to use as an extra bike for friends and errands around town. this fork has performed way beyond my expectations. it is actually pretty stiff. i experimented with the mcu's and set it up with the preload all the way out so it would give just a hint of bobbing on a tough climb. lavished it with judy butter, lubed the stantions and kept it clean. i don't have to worry about blowing a cartridge or a seal 10 miles out.so far it has 1500 trail and 750 road miles on it. the stroke is smooth and the ramp up at the end let me hit it harder than you'd think you should, and it wouldn't top out hard at all. now i realize that it wont compare to a zoke in stiffness and stroke, but this fork really outperforms it's intended role. now i ride my stumpy all the time. any fork that gets an old bike a second life is worth it. 5 smokin' loafs for the love. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob
a Cross Country Rider
from Green Bay,Wi
Date Reviewed: February 11, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | any of them | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | Strong, not much flexing if you use strong brakes
good for first shox, good for the road | | Weaknesses: | not enough travel, to bouncy, boots come off easily
Bad for trails | | Similar Products Used: | nothing important | | Bike Setup: | gt tequesta, Spin wheelset, XTR, Ect. | | Bottom Line: | Excellent fork if you ride the road a lot
Bad fork if you ride the trails a lot
Can buy a better fork for a few more bucks
Boots don't stay on very well | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael Durfee
a Cross Country Rider
from Eugene, Oregon
Date Reviewed: February 5, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | sakatah | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | not much... best strength?...got me 50 bucks toward a new fork. | | Weaknesses: | just about everything about it. Super bouncy...I weigh about 200lbs, and on big hits, it throws the front end off the trail...lost a tooth as a result of this fork (O.k., I was pissed at the fork and was taking it off, turned around and tripped over my bike, fell on the fork...woops, I'm a clutz). | | Similar Products Used: | R.S. Judy XC, Manitou SX-R, Marzocchi Z2 | | Bike Setup: | Gary Fischer Big Sur '98, XT/XTR | | Bottom Line: | crap. do not buy for more than ten bucks...only buy if you want to make some sort of art deco crap out of it. It doesn't deserve even one flaming chili...Taco Bell mild sauce is spicier than this fork. Unfortunately, the lowest rating allowed is a plus-one. This should be in a category of its own incompetence. By far one of the worst forks ever produced. The '93 Mag10 was nicer, and it was a real piece of excrement, too. Spend the extra benjamins and get a real fork, like the Marzocchi Z2BAM or Z3light. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scooter
a Racer
from Vermont
Date Reviewed: January 22, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Light
Strong
Not complicated | | Weaknesses: | Not a whole lot of travel with out the long travel kit. | | Similar Products Used: | Judy C | | Bike Setup: | Old school specialized hard rock with mostly LX components, and this shock. | | Bottom Line: | I raced xc for a whole season with a rigid fork and then bought this on sale because it was the last fork sold that had a threaded steere tube. I love it i get the slight shock asorbtion I need with out compromising on weight or stiffness. Infact this was actually lighter than my rigid fork. Great fork for anyone who can take a little banging around or beginners. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pat G
a Weekend Warrior
from Columbus OH
Date Reviewed: October 19, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Caeser Creek/Dorr Run | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Good travel, realistic pricing | | Weaknesses: |
Heavy (3.1) yeah right, try 3.8. Not much tuning available | | Similar Products Used: |
Noleen Elite, Mag 20, Manitou, Judy XC | | Bike Setup: |
Trek Y-3 (wifes bike) | | Bottom Line: | This is my wifes bike, but I've ridden it a bunch. The shock is great for a beginner, but is definately not up to the task of a regular/higher level rider. I weighed mine and it hit 3.8, not 3.1 like claimed. No maintenance, but also very little adjustability. It's kinda like a pogo stick. If you want front FS cheap, hit Wheel World or SuperGo, they have em for around $80. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
phil
a Cross-Country Rider
from vermont
Date Reviewed: September 10, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
catamont | | Duration Product Used: |
tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: |
lite | | Weaknesses: |
springs are very weak | | Similar Products Used: |
rock shock judy C | | Bike Setup: |
Trek y 5o | | Bottom Line: | alright fork work good on my bike and it hasn | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Clark
a Weekend Warrior
from Berkeley, Ca
Date Reviewed: August 31, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Good performer. I ride fire roads and the paved streets leading to them. | | Weaknesses: |
none | | Similar Products Used: |
none | | Bike Setup: |
KHS hardtail, STX 7 speed | | Bottom Line: | Most people buying this shock did not know that they are supposed to buy the springs for their total weight. My dealer didn't know this, I had to call Rock Shox to find out. Then, when I went to the dealer to ask for the springs, he said that Rock Shox was wrong and that these Indy shocks were poorly designed. He said that he was taking the elastomers out of old Quad 21 shocks to make them work. I tried to explain the proper set-up, but the dealer wouldn't discuss it. So I just called Rock Shox and ordered the parts myself. If you buy a Rock Shox be sure to talk to the manufacturer. Don't believe your local bike shop | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
phil
a Downhiller
from bc
Date Reviewed: August 30, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
all | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
They are sweet if you've been using a fork with 2 travel or less.
Inexpensive. Like 90 bucks from Pricepoint!
boots actually stay on. | | Weaknesses: |
not much travel | | Similar Products Used: |
Indy C, S, Judy XL T2 XC C Bomber Z1,2,3,4,5
manitous, etc... | | Bike Setup: |
I had my indy on my stock Fisher Joshua X1. Now I upgraded to Judy XL and some DH goodies. | | Bottom Line: | It's an entry level fork. I can't feel any flex because I weigh 130. I probably couldn't feel flex if I were heavier anyway, so flex isn't a problem. The boots stay on, unlike most forks. Not much maintenance involved other than cleaning and lubing stanchions occasionally. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kyle Trotter
a Weekend Warrior
from Tyler, TX
Date Reviewed: July 21, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Not too heavy. Pretty rugged. | | Weaknesses: |
Bottoms out very easily. Shock stays compressed for the last 3/4 inch travel after a bump even when on the seat (I weigh 160). Squeaky. A lot of flex. VERY LOW END! Wears out fast. | | Similar Products Used: |
The rock shox that was just the rock shox. (Cheapest one that they use to make like in 1997) and it also was horrible. | | Bike Setup: |
1997 Gary Fisher Hoo-Koo-E-Koo. Hardtail. | | Bottom Line: | This is a good shock for a starter, but with only 63mm of travel and soft springs, it is very low end! You can get it for 90 bucks! Haha. Only 3 chillies and thats because its strong. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Petteri
a Cross-Country Rider
from Helsinki, Finland
Date Reviewed: July 3, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Price, weight, low maintenance | | Weaknesses: |
Doesn't work too well | | Similar Products Used: |
Z2 Bam
Judy SL | | Bike Setup: |
Sunn Vertik-2 build-up | | Bottom Line: | This was my first suspension fork; had it for about a year. Rode mostly in the city, but pretty often on tracks too. It's quite helpful in the city (absorbs curbs, tramway tracks, cobblestone etc.) but very nearly useless on the track -- wobbles and wanders, not sensitive enough for small sharp hits and not plush enough for big bumps. I tried tuning the hell out of it before deciding to bite the bullet and upgrade; with softer elastomers it got a teeny bit better but not much. Also it completely stopped functioning in cold weather. The facts that it wasn't too expensive, it was light, and never game me any trouble per se really don't help much as it didn't really do its job. My advice? Bite the bullet and buy a real fork instead. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Derek Jensen
a Racer
from Edmonds, WA
Date Reviewed: June 21, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
The Earth | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Light, cheap. | | Weaknesses: |
Too soft! A bit flexy, too. | | Similar Products Used: |
Manitou Spyder R, Noleen Crosslink | | Bike Setup: |
'98 Trek 7000 (Awesome bike), just switched to firmer Rock Shox springs. | | Bottom Line: | Even though my review is almost identical to Dave's below (Same bike and everything!) I decided to post it anyway. I am also a pretty light rider (135lbs.) and it was always a bit soft even with maxed-out preload. The new Rock Shox springs I got (Firm out of Soft, Medium, Firm, and Extra Firm) get rid of most of the brake dive and excessive movement, but are noticeably heavier. Even though they are too soft, I hardly notice these shocks working, in a good way. Although they are pretty good overall, I must say that it is the weakest component of my excellent stock Trek 7000. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross-Country Rider
from Parkton, Maryland
Date Reviewed: June 4, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
price
ok for first fork | | Weaknesses: |
Rebound to fast
TOO soft | | Similar Products Used: |
jett xc (still better than indys) | | Bike Setup: |
stock Trek 7000 | | Bottom Line: | this shock was ok for the price and if its a first time shock, but i just payed $700 for a '98 Trek 7000 which i love but the fork was a dissapointment. It felt alright at first but even at the stiffest setting and me only being 110 lbs it would bottom out on a 2 inch hit. It is still light compared to most cheap forks but it is your best bet if you can only fork out so much cash. I give it two flaming big ones. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
reid
a Weekend Warrior
from BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: May 22, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
relatively soft
price not too bad | | Weaknesses: |
friggin' plastic preload adjusters!
bit noisy | | Bike Setup: |
97 Kona muni-mula
everything stock | | Bottom Line: | This is my first suspension fork on my first real MTB. It isn't super plush (but im only 115lbs), but it does the job. problem: it isn't very sensitive to little hits, and the top of the travel is stiff on sudden straight-down hits. It's been super reliable with no maintenance. I recommend this fork for recreational beginners looking for a good fork to learn on, and I give it 3 fiery sheisens
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Phonsy
a Cross-Country Rider
from LAX WI
Date Reviewed: March 30, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Ridge | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
cheap, good as SID with Total Air Cartridges | | Weaknesses: |
Flexy, but can be fixed with break boosters even if you are a big guy. | | Bike Setup: |
'98 Gary Fisher Big Sur | | Bottom Line: | There GRRRRRRRRRRRRRREAT! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a Racer
from Alaska
Date Reviewed: March 27, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Cheap if you find them on closeout. These forks are light weight, easy to service and have excellent warrenty coverage from Rock Shox. Presently the Indy XC is the same as the lower end, none hydrocoil Jetts. The savvy shopper can save himself some money if he looks around. | | Weaknesses: |
The stock MCU's suck ass! They are not worth putting up with. They do not work in cold weather, lack rebound dampening when its warm out, and do not provide all the travel your fork is capable of. | | Similar Products Used: |
Judy XC hydrocoil, Judy XL, Indy SL, C, Manitou Ti. | | Bike Setup: |
An old Specialized Rockhopper with a '98 Indy XC long travel equipped with Englund Air Cartridges. | | Bottom Line: | This is a great fork for the money when it is purchased on closeout. The simple reason being that it is light, backed by a good company and easily upgradable. I hate to eat my words but the flexiness is noticable in steering percision. I didn't become aware of the problem until I rode through lots of wet, spring break up snow. Its flexable enough to make you wonder whether or not you will be able to stay on your line. Other problems I have had is with the boots not staying secured to the resi-wiper seals. I had this same problem on a '97 Indy C. Overall I still like the fork, for the money you can have a cheap 3 travel fork for as low as $99 if you find it on closeout. You just have to look. I recommend upgrading to a set of England Air cartridges and you will have one sweet brand name economy ride. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a racer
from alaska
Date Reviewed: March 1, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I picked up a set of these on clearence last fall before the snow hit. I installed them on my old Rockhopper and had to get a new front brake cable as the stock one was not long enough. These were not my first Rock Shox forks so I new what to expect. I've read a number of posts complaining about the flexing and lack of steering precision. I have noticed the flex but don't find it troublesome. They are no worse than the original rigid forks that came on the bike. As for the steering precision I havn't noticed a problem. The wheel turns when I turn the handlebars so I have no complaints. The stock MCU's do not work when the temperature drops below freezing. I wouldn't waste your time with them. Trust me I know! I used speed springs for a while that I had laying around and they worked okay but the lack of rebound dampening drove me crazy. I upgraded to a set of Englund air cartridges a couple of months ago and found they work quite well. Yes, they work in cold weather but only after you clean out the original Rock Shox grease the Indys come with and put in something suitable for cold weather. I use Ski-doo synthetic snowmobile grease, helped out immensely. Overall they are a good fork. I feel Rock Shox is the best when it comes to warrenty claims and userfriendliness during servicing. If you look around you can still find them advertised in magazines for as low as $99. That is an awesome buy. The one inch theadless with a brake hanger was hard to find last fall so I don't know how many more are available. Definitly look around, chances are you can convert that old ridged bike for cheap and still get a brandname fork. Don't waste your money on brands like RST or Suntour. You will just be mad at yourself down the road. One of the reasons why is their are no upgrades available for those forks. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Breezy Willis
a cross-country rider
from Westby,WI
Date Reviewed: February 3, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had an Indy for the last two years. I am a light rider so i liked the fact that it can be set up really soft easily. It stacked up badly over the washboards and bottomed badly when I would take small ledges or logs. This was due to the fact that it was set up soft. If I were to set it up harder it wouldnt take off as much as I wanted it to so if figure that the bottoming was worth it. Would I advise buying one? yes, but youshould realize that it willserve best as a stepping stone to higher performance forks whenm your ride intensity and skill level increases. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Berkeley Mike
a weekend warrior
from Berkeley, California
Date Reviewed: January 30, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
A modest shock for a low price. We ride as fast and hard as ANYONE over rim banging, gut wrenching, downhill, and crank our way through the most adhesive alluvium you will find anywhere. Its seen damned little attention, I've used it for 2.5 years (about 3000 miles) and it's started to get a little loose. It has saved my hands and shoulders and kept me on the trail. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
shinydonkey
a cross-country rider
from Australia
Date Reviewed: January 24, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
These forks are OK -- a bit stiff to start off with, a bit hasty on the rebound, no dampening, etc. etc. Very good for the price. Mine bottomed out on a 5 ft vertical dropoff and threw me over the bars, but I put that down to being a cocky bastard and exercising inadequate caution. Wicked forks for a beginner. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bryan
a cross-country rider
from Michigan
Date Reviewed: January 17, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
It is a decent shock for a new rider and a good deal if you can get deal for your money. However, if you are a lighter rider it can be pretty stiff you may want to replace the springs and the elastemers which will improve the shock ten times.. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Simon
a weekend warrior
from USA
Date Reviewed: January 12, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I just got this fork as my first suspension and never rode one before. It is really sweet. The brakes flex a little but so what. I also got on closout for only 89 dollars. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom Sherlock
a weekend warrior
from Surrey England
Date Reviewed: January 5, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I like doing trials and jumps and tricks and generally muckind around . I wanted a set of forks that would cushioon the landings and soften the ride while riping downhill but could be stiffened up when I did trials . I Managed to find a pair of Indy XC's for £150.00 Instead of the usual £259.00 , and I'm glad to say they do the job , they don't flex , they take out the big hits and soften the landings and don't absorb the energy too bad when I do trials . But the shock boots never stay down and this lets in the water when you splash the foks or wash them off . This lets water sit down in the legs and in tern causes the fork to stiffen up which means regular services and regreases . Apart from this I would recomend them to any one who likes to play around on their hard tail and wants a bit of comfort . | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ben
a weekend warrior
from Byfield MA
Date Reviewed: December 27, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This shock Kicks!! I have owned a Gary fisher Kaitai for a year and they came with it. They are nice and light and perform well and the trails. does anybody know how much any Indy shock is. I want a pair of them for my brother!! Anybody who says this shock sucks has a odd sexual preference!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon
a cross-country rider
from Bethel,CT
Date Reviewed: December 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I AGREE WITH BIG-SUR below! My '98 Fisher Hookooekoo is basically his bike, with a downgraded crank and a steel frame (steel is still the best =)!). I have the '97 version too, and it sucks BAD!!! But there has GOT to be something wrong with these Indy XC's that came with 98 Fishers, they act insane!!! Great fork, sucks up everything! Now I need a LT kit! Nah, im replacing it with a Z3 Zoke, but still, this is one SERIOUS FORK. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ryan scott
a cross-country rider
from NEW ZEALAND, yeah!
Date Reviewed: December 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I own a '97 indy xc it is a very nice fork for what you pay. They take the hits great and are very lite. The downside is they flex bad, look whennie and they lock up when it's cold. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Phil...
a cross-country rider
from Alaska
Date Reviewed: December 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I already posted a review a few weeks ago, but since then I have come to realize how much of a noodle the Indy really is. I noticed this while out riding in the snow. In thick heavy snow the handle bar turns, but the wheel does not, like the lights are on, but nobody is home! (Shaggy from Scooby Doo). It really sucks when I can't steer my bike out of a rut while bombing down some slippery slope. Then when my wheel does come free, I end up over corrected, and the front wheel flops all over until it gets lodged in the snow again. I couldn't believe the fork could twist laterally to this extent (in just heavy snow) until I pinched the front wheel between my knees and moved the handlebar. No problem, the fork was as weak as a kitten. Well the snow is too deep on the trails to ride on for a while (the snow mobile riders, and skiers need to get out and pack it down) so I put my bike up, and got out my X-country skis... Still, in a year, to six months, I will probably replace that Indy with something stiffer. I am not sure what I will get... Just have to wait and see...Only 3 peppers this time since I now know how irritating an overly flexible fork can be. I have probably been fighting my front-end unconsciously since I put the thing on. However, its not all bad, I need to say that it does take the edge off the sharp pounding I used to get from my Aluminum frame, and furthermore it has saved my bacon on a few unexpected drop-offs.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric
a downhiller
from New Zealand
Date Reviewed: December 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Hey fellows!!
how is it going??
i m a mountain bikier!~ *of course*
if u r getting a rock shox, well, tell u what, THEY ARE SHI*!!
rock shox are rip off!!
u pay half the price 4 the brand!
it do not travel that much!
i would get a RST mozo fork or a high 5!~
RST have just been underated
like, no 1 thinks they r good, but actually they r quite good!!!
i m not joking!~
ROCK SHOX R shi*
my friend haz got Quadra 21r, and hardly travels, it flex to the worst!!
if u got money, i would recommend a marzocchi,
4 a decent fork, and pay less, i would get a RST mozo pro 3.5- lots of travel and disc brack mount
it is awesome!~
conclusion- ROCK SHOX SUCKS ALL THE WAY | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aaron
a racer
from Belle mead, NJ
Date Reviewed: November 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had a indy XC for a year, only because I could not afford any other shox for the 3Lbs weight. I have used it pretty hard for the past year, and have not been impressed with its performance. It bottoms out all the time, and it has horrible rebound,way too fast, but it does work through all of the crap I put it through. I cause at least $200 in damage to my bike a season, and I have not had to do any thing major to the shock. This is a plus for me. I give it four chiles for durability. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Phil...
a
from cross-country rider
Date Reviewed: November 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have been using the '97' version for more than a year now. It has held up well, nothings broken anyway. I have noticed some stiction developing since riding in some very dirty conditions. A good external cleaning and lubing of the stanchion tubes helped greatly. However, I am tempted to tear it apart (remove the lower leg assembly) and really clean it, as well as install a long travel kit... and pour in a bit of shock oil, or some Teflon fortified stuff, to help keep things lubed down below.
It is true; these forks are damped like Mexican jumping beans... This has led me to desire an Englund Total Air Cartridge system... That is next on my upgrade list, right after a new BB, etc etc.
The main reason I still ride this fork, when there are so many superior models brands etc., is that it is the lightest for the money. There are so many 3.75 - 4.1 lbs. forks on the market these days, at least in my price range... True, those heavier forks are probably more rugged...
Well, until this piece breaks, I'm ridding it.
Four flaming thingers..
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Santana
a cross-country rider
from Nicaragua
Date Reviewed: November 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
When you're new to the front-suspension game and first see it on the bike you've bought, you're all wonder and fascination. It actually makes the front end of the bike much cushier than that of your old rigid. But as the months pass and stiction becomes an issue, you decide to disassemble the fork for the first time, and lo and behold... what have you got here?... a toy spring assembly! No wonder the performance has been progressively deteriorating. That's when you start eyeing a Z2. When you finally get a Bomber, even a '97 model on closeout, you realize that the '98 Indy XC is really a toy fork best suited for supermarket bikes. Rock Shox may have used their marketing clout to push their products as premium items in the early days of MTB suspension, but over the years, their main competitors -- Answer and Marzocchi -- have shown up how poorly-engineered and underbuilt their forks really are. Stay away from anything with the Rock Shox logo, and especially the '99 Jetts (leftover Indy's from the stockpile recycled with new springs and stickers!). | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ewan Maxwell
a cross-country rider
from Sydney, Australia
Date Reviewed: November 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Sweet man, The best shit I have ever tried. I used to own a pair of answer Mach
5's and they snapped. I bought my Indy's and I realised that answer were kidding themselves.
Good for beginner forks, light and durable, could use a bit more dampening, but who cares for this price.
5 chillies Baby! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Big J
a cross-country rider
from Oakland, CA
Date Reviewed: October 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Of course when you compare an Indy XC to a Marzocchi A-Bomb or a Manitou SX-R or SX-Ti, the fork is nothing. But for the money you pay, it holds up alright and does a good job of absorbing the bumps. I have two problems with it. 1: the rebound is way too fast. Every other hit I take on it it tops out and I hear a lovely pinging sound. 2: I only way 110 pounds and i had to putt in springs which are only the second heaviest springs to make it not possible to bottom out the fork with one hand. But if you like a very cushy ride and don't ride very hard, the fork is great for you. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin OBrien
a
from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: October 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This fork has held up great, but it would be better if they could make a speed spring for one.I currently habe a 98' Gary Fisher Big sur which is nice. I cant think ok what fork to save up for, so if you have any comments or suggestion on what i should save up for, or what is a good mountain bike fork contact me at olliebordz@aol.com as for the indy xc, for someone who is not too serious about riding its a great fork. I wou ld defenatly reccomend it for someone. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tomas Rendl
a cross-country rider
from Czech Republic
Date Reviewed: October 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is the first thing on my bike that will have to go. Not that it is that bad. It is a cheap fork after all. But it kicks me every now and then and the ride definitely is not very silky. I will probably get an Answer or a Marzocchi fork. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Thomas Aden
a cross-country rider
from Pleasant Dale NE
Date Reviewed: October 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my 1997 Indy XC fork for my M-60. It worked well for a low end fork. After about 15 months, the elastimers were shot. I didn't take very good care of it though. Overall, it's a little to soft. I rode a 1998 XC at a bike shop, and I thought it totally sucked. The 97 was defentily better. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Big Sur
a weekend warrior
from oklahoma
Date Reviewed: October 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
My 98 Big Sur came stock with the indy XC and coming from a manitou I was really surprised. This is the best fork I think aside from the SID. I upgraded my Indy with a long travel kit from Rock Shox and I have been completely thrilled with it. FYI If you decide to get the long travel kit better let your local bike shop install it. It is a real pain getting to the bottom bolt in the fork. It requires a 6mm x 12inch allen wrench and its a fun project. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tuukka Hakkinen
a weekend warrior
from Finland
Date Reviewed: September 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I had lots of great moments with this fork. Because it was my first one?
Perhaps. It worked great, looked cool and best of all, it really made my ride more comfy and relaxed. I loved it from the first day when it came with my new Schwinn, to the last day on the BMX track. I managed to broke it (the jump was not too big). I bought a Marzocchi Bomber Z 2 Bam and realized that the Indy XC was nothing but crap. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kyle
a cross-country rider
from Los Gatos
Date Reviewed: September 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
It is a good fork. Pros: Great for beginners, nice for the price, and durable (I have not had any problems with it thus far. Cons: a bit flexy and not much dampening to speak of.
I am planning to upgrade to a '98 Answer Manitou SX TI soon because I am outgrowing my Indy. In conclusion I am giving this fork 4 flamin' chilis because it's durable and great for the price, but it has some flex. I am not taking off any chilis off for the dampening part because that's not what the fork was made for. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JJ
a cross-country rider
from California
Date Reviewed: September 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Here's the deal. I paid 175 bucks for my Indy XC. For that price, I can't imagine a fork any better. If you want to compare it to a Z1 or Judy of course it wont stand up. But you know, If you're looking for the best bang for the buck there is no other place to look. Rider on a budget, buy and Indy! Im tired of hearing all of these opinions from people who obviously have way too much money and can afford to dump 500 bucks on a fork. I, for one, don't have alot of cash but I live to ride, and the Indy XC makes me happy. Like I said, if you're wallet is thin, buy an Indy! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob
a cross-country rider
from Bay Area, CA
Date Reviewed: September 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got the 98 version with my HooKooEKoo and at first I was disappointed. I thought the shox were too hard and I started looking into upgrading right away. But I found that stiffer springs actually did the trick. For anyone who's heavier than the range they list in the manual, I recommend just upgrading the springs a step. They've now got the preload I like and are still stiff until I hit the big bumps. I think they're just fine for the price. I really wish they had some rebound dampening, but it's not too bad. I haven't had mine break yet, either.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael Durfee
a cross-country rider
from Eugene, Oregon
Date Reviewed: September 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This fork is absolute crap. It came as original equipment on my new Big Sur...I wish I had exchanged it right away for that Z2 BAM or the Manitou SX R. No matter how many different combinations of bumpers I use, it still doesn't feel right. Screw elastomers!! GO HYDRAULIC!!! If this site allowed a negative rating, the Indy XC would get it hands down. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mitch
a cross-country rider
from
Date Reviewed: September 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I love this shock. The only problem is that where the wheel clamps onto the fork, half it broke off. So know I have to clamp my wheel on real tight hoping that I don't lose it bouncing around. I give it three stars only because it broke. I need only three more words, there I did it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MATT
a racer
from MENDOTA HTS. , MN , USA
Date Reviewed: August 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I TOOK THIS FORK ON ALL THE RACES I HAVE BEEN IN AND IT IS AWESOME! I I I I I I I I I I I I LIKE IT BECAUSE I PUT AIR CARTRIDGES IN IT AND IT IS THE BEST INDY XC IN THE WORLD!
AND IF YOU USE GREASE DON'T USE JUDY BUTTER IT SUCKS!!
ENGLUND'S SLICK HONEY IS DA BOMB AND IT WORKS WAY BETTER!!
SEE YA SUCKERS!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jared Sokalofsky
a racer
from Canada
Date Reviewed: August 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I hate it its a piece of shit. It was kind of decent to start with but now three months later I totally @#%$'n hate the stupid piece of shit.it sucks going at slow speeds snd at high speeds it has no good setting its either to fast or tooslow I'Ve tried everything and I still Hate it. It flexes incredibly and I'm only 152 pounds and I try a lot of stupid things on my bike like big drops and steep fast shouts and it was worse than my Q21R. I would never buy another Rock Shox because I've went though two sets of bushings. The only reason I would even give it one star is because mine is black and yellow and its pretty light but it still sucks. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Me
a weekend warrior
from the internet
Date Reviewed: August 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Igive it 5 burning poops It is good and good priced. and i must have 50 words so i am still typeing. and thpeing and still thpe ing and more bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla bla..... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
FroriderWannaBe
a cross-country rider
from BC Canada
Date Reviewed: August 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is a fork for riding on good trails but when I was doing some drops and falling off logs the brace cracked I got it replaced for free but if it happens again I will get another brand of shock. They work awsome and are plush. Froriders are the best riders they are soooo cool. Well have nothing else to say so, New school is the stuff. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim
a cross-country rider
from New Hampshire
Date Reviewed: August 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The Indy XC came with the HooKooEKoo. The fork Snapped on me at the 10 mile mark in a 33 mile race. The break was caused by an OTB with the tire pinched in between two rocks. The brake support totally seperated from the fork. Not being a small rider, Clidsdale (no scale needed) I can't completely blame the shock. But I due give it a low rating on how quick it needed a rebiuld and that when climbing out of the saddle once your weight goes forward it's like riding a Pogo Stick. Replacement shock will not be a Rock. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
El budderino
a cross-country rider
from Marin County, Ca
Date Reviewed: July 31, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
These things looked decent when I got them, but lately (five monthes later)
they have lost ALL of the little rebound that they had to begin with,
I weigh 140, but when I shift my over the fork, they compress like a
three hundred pound weight was dropped on them (Not cool) Just a weight
shift over the fork feels like I'm riding off of a small drop, and after
several hours of this it starts to get annoying. Please, cough up a few
more clams, get something that works well. AKA Marzocchi.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Raphael Fang
a cross-country rider
from Burnaby, BC,Canada
Date Reviewed: July 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
For the price, it's not a bad fork at all. Still, this fork is best for the people that are starting up. It works best when the speed is low. I wouldn't recoomend it for hard core riding. For mild trailsm it's the best fork and it doesn't weight as much as a judy, and require lesser ,maintainece. FYI,I just rited mine and got a 98 Judy XC. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scabs
a weekend warrior
from Raleigh, NC, USA
Date Reviewed: July 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Just got a 98 Indy XC for my Trek 850. So far so good. Now if i can just figure out the adjustments, i'd be ok. I weigh 185 riding. Do I need more or less preload? Do I change the stock setup? I'm a fairly aggressive rider. Can someone help? 3 chiles cause I just got it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BGold
a cross-country rider
from Providece,RI
Date Reviewed: July 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the '97 model in '98 because it was cheap and I thought $150 for a $250 fork is really good so I chucked my rigid fork and finally got some suspension. I'm used to riding a rigid fork and the Indy XC flexes horribly, I it causes the brakes to rub up on the rim in sharp corners and it doesn't steer half as well as a rigid fork. The thing also pogos and it's like boingy-boingy, boingy-boingy all the time, and that's bad. Boingy boingy boingy boingy. If you get a fork, make sure it's got some dampening. I'm gonna give this thing two of those ugly thingys as you can see. Boingy boingy boingy..... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jonathan
a cross-country rider
from Mobile AL
Date Reviewed: July 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
These shox are worth what I paid for them $170. They have many problems though. They turn rock hard in the winter because the elastomers freeze. That's a major bummer down here because the major riding season is in the winter because it gets up to 100 degrees F here in the summer. My suggestion is to replace the type II spring system with mountain speed indy springs or go for an air cartridge kit. Another suggestion is to replace the chromaly steering tube with a alloy/aluminum one like the judy's and indy sl's have. Another problem with this fork is that it has no dampning adjuster. I would also get the long travel kit because this fork bottoms out a lot and needs more travel. My biggest suggestion is to not get the Indy's, but get some manitou sx-r or ti's or judy xc or sl's (but don't get the judy t2's because they are the some as the indy's with a dampning adjuster. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Drew
a racer
from Cleveland Ohio- Alpine Valley
Date Reviewed: July 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I really like this fork a lot. I haven't had any major problems excep for those plastic preload knob. I ride trials every wendsday and sunday and ride on the rode every day it has not had any problems. You really need to keep it oiled nicly too. i think it is a great fork for the buck. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Luke
a cross-country rider
from Australia
Date Reviewed: July 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Not bad considering the price you pay for them. What pisses me of is
the fact they don't have a compression or rebound adjuster, and they
go rock hard in the cold. My only suggestion is to take out the
elastomers and replace them with spring, they go heaps better.
Work well if looked after. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Connor
a cross-country rider
from Ontario
Date Reviewed: June 27, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently purchased a 1998 indy XC LT and I am very happy with it. It's a big improvement over my old fork, the RST 181. I like it's adjustibility. But it is not perfect. It's a bit flexy and it could use some damping. Overall it's a great for the budget minded XC rider.I give it four chilies. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
matt
a downhiller
from Ma
Date Reviewed: June 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is my first suspension fork. It gets the job done and you dont have to worry to much about the maintence on it. The price is about right. I think if you are a begineer then these are the shocks you want. I have completely submerged the shocks in water many time before relubing them they still work fine. If you do a lot of downhilling like me i wish i did go with the manitous
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ottis~
a cross-country rider
from NH
Date Reviewed: June 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got these shocks a few months ago. let me just say they rule. To all you retards who broke your shock mabey you should read the owneres manual and tak care of them. They handle roots and rocks fine while holding tight uphill. If you find the right notch in the ajuster they are very sweet. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MATT DOGG
a racer
from USA (WHAT OTHER COUNTRY??)
Date Reviewed: June 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
THIS SHOCK SUCKS!! UNLESS, YOU HAVE A LONG TRAVEL KIT IN IT.
OH YEA!, RST SUCKS IF U HAVE ANY RST STUFF BURN IT NOW IT REALLY SUCKS THE CRAP!
IF YOU DON'T HAVE RST YOU MUST BE DA BOMB.
RST SUCKS I HATE IT AND I KNOW ALL U OTHER PEOPLE DO TOO!!
HA!!, RST IS THE MOST PIECE OF SHI* HOCK OUT THERE SIT DOWN RST BITC***!!
RST SUCKS!
RST SUCKS!
RST SUCKS!
RST SUCKS!!
DON'T EVER BUY ANY KIND OF SHI** RST SHOCK OUT THERE!!
THAY ALL SUCK!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan Crate
a downhiller
from Keswick Ontario
Date Reviewed: June 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just litteraly snapped these pieces of shit LITTERLY!! they just snapped going down a hill hit a fairly big rock they should handle that i just went to Z1's they rule!!!!!! they are the best things that have ever happened to me i went back to the same hill and went over the same rock , didnt even feel it!!!
BOMBERS rule!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nathan Tyree
a cross-country rider
from kansas
Date Reviewed: June 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
What the !@#$#$% I broke my indy xc this week,in a wreck,it is a weak shock,it
doesn't have any travel, GET THE RST MOZO PRO with 4.5 inches of travel and
and sells for $250.And the indy sold for 250,and the rst is twice the skock.
You people are crazy that think the indy xc is a good,or even decent shock. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JAMES KIDNEY
a cross-country rider
from ENGLAND
Date Reviewed: June 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I myself ride with JUDY XC 96's, but I was pleasantly suprised with the perfomance of the INDY XC on a friends bike. Very smooth and very plush. The sound of air puffing from them was a little strange but you got used to it. It could also have done with being a little harder but that can be changed.
I very nice fork and ideal for someone new to MTB's
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a cross-country rider
from Boulder, CO
Date Reviewed: May 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Like I said in my earlier review, the Indy XC is an OK fork, though it is spec'd on many very expensive bikes. Last month I installed a set of Super Struts in my fork and what an improvement! The fork tracks very well and the Super Struts eat up the big hits. The Super Struts have great rebound control, are very sensitive, are lighter compared to the other upgrade kits. If you are going to buy an Indy, plan on upgrading it with Super Struts. (They are listed under fork upgrade kits in MTBR)from two stars to five stars | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Zander
a weekend warrior
from Kootenays,Canada
Date Reviewed: May 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Sorry Rock Shox but this thing (if you can call it a shock Sux) First off, after a period of 3months, I busted the fork crossover, so they sent me another one, then 4months down the road the bushings decided to slip down an extra 5mm, so they sent me a second set of lower legs, next a strange squeeky noise started, I knew it couldn't be my headset, (it's too solid)-RaceFace, my bars weren't acting, (Roox) so, It must be the shocks, I decided to wait for the shox to disinigrate, until I realised that the fork was separating at the crown, this was the end of my Rock shox days, Three strikes and your out!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andre Brais
a racer
from Kitimat B.C.
Date Reviewed: May 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This fork isn't the greatest. It's not bad if it's greased up, but the
grease wears off after half an hour. The only good points are the price
and weight factor. One feature I dispise is the large amount of play. I
say you should only purchase this fork if you weigh 145 - 185 pounds. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew D
a weekend warrior
from San Antonio, Texas
Date Reviewed: May 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Well here's my 2 cents. My XC came on my '98 Big Sur, it's my first suspension fork and it seems to be doing O.K except at first it had a little stiction so I slapped on some Englund Slick Honey which cured it immediately, second I did that little test the one in which you put a twist-tie around the upper legs and measure the travel. I came up with 48mm at the most. I don't know what the deal is but where is my other 15mm of travel? Overall I'm happy with it, and I'm going to say what every one else is saying. Good for the money and no blown cartridges.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
john
a cross-country rider
from utah
Date Reviewed: May 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I would first of all like to tell matt from edmonton to shut the phuc up. Dipp schitt is trying to compare an indy xc to a Z1. Ok let's see now, the indy xc are five steps down from the judy sl which hardly compares to Z1 itself. Then note the difference in price. Ummm maybe three times as much if not more. You're comparing porn star to pee-wee herman. Now again, which was the better fork! Matt hope you and your Z1's crash and burn. Now as for the indy xc, they do their job in the trails and the save your asss on big hits. Works like clock-work. | | Overall Rating: |
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