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Which Manitou Evolver ISX-6 would better...

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5.1K views 24 replies 15 participants last post by  droptop  
#1 · (Edited)
...for pedaling. From what I've read so far this shock seems to be one of the best air shocks currently on the market. My frame relies on platform dampening to help stay efficient and I wanted to know which of the two models (ISX-4 or ISX-6) would be better at pedaling, is Intrinsic or the SPV. If someone could also explain the difference between the two in the process that would also be great.

-Thanks, Dave
 
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#2 ·
i thought the ISX-6 only came with intrinsic damping? i think it's geared more toward 6"+ travel bikes, but for your Kona, an SPV shock would help it pedal. according to TNC the intrinsic works well with VPP type suspensions (or any that use axle path and/or chain tension for pedaling eficiency.) but wait for TNC and a couple others to chime in here. they know a lot about the shock.
 
#3 ·
I too think the ISX-6 is only available with Intrinsic damping. Anybody seen a SPV version? I think the ISX-4 may be SPV equipped.

Yeah, it's a very good shock. I am pleased with mine, anyway. If you are looking for a platform, though, you probably won't be too happy with the shock. The greatest things about the shock are the LACK of noticeable platform with a high degree of adjustability... two features lacking on most other air shocks. You could crank up the low speed compression, which does do a good job of stiffening the shock against pedal input and rider bob, but it won't replicate the feel of a platform.

JMH
 
#5 ·
My understanding from speaking with the Manitou folks directly is that the ISX series is Intrinsic damping and the X series is SPV. The initial production was a little confusing as there were indeed some ISX models that offered either format. One of the guys at the shop has an ISX-4 with SPV for his Haro single pivot purchased near the end of last year. Allegedly this won't be available anymore. It's the same shock now listed as an X-4. It's funny how their rear shock line has been absolutely awesome in performance and innovative design, but their literature and website info has lagged behind. I guess I'll take a good shock over a polished marketing package. As to their marketing package, I expect to see that improve as the whole Hayes parent company gets their acquisitions of Sun-Ringle and Answer Products all sorted out.

G-Vegas, I agree with rm racer that if you have a Kona, the SPV versions would probably be the best choice to match your design.
 
#6 ·
from what i can tell from your pictures, it looks like you have a Float R. i think your bike would do well with any platform shock, but if you want to stick to the manitou route (which sounds like a very fine route), and based on the Manitou website, i would go for the Swinger X-4 instead of the Evolver ISX-6. the platform will serve you well.
 
#7 ·
Thanks for replying. The bike pictured in my profile (02 Kona Bear) is not actually the Kona this shock will be going on (The Bear actually has an RP2). The Bike this shock will be going is an 06 Dawg. I've decided on the X4 as the most sensible option for me however I can't find a site that is currently carrying it, so for now I wait.
 
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#8 ·
ISX-4 Intrinsic (non SPV) w/Single Pivot

Hey,
I recently picked up an Evolver ISX-4 w/Intrinsic dampening, not SPV. I am putting it on a Heckler single pivot and am a little weary if I should have got the SPV version. I got a real good deal on it so I really could not go wrong, so went with it, have not finished the build but will later this week and am looking forward to it. To my understanding the Intrinsic dampening is more plush at the beginning of the stroke and is more suited for AM type applications instead of XC. I'll post again once I break it in.
 
T
#10 ·
Very intresting post. I am looking to get the ISX-4 for my Ibex Atlas (high single pivot). I assumed the ISX-4 was an SPV. With my suspension set up would I benifit more from the SPV or Intrinsic. I currently have a non-platform Manitou Metal and the bike doesn't bob at all. So I would think that I don't need the SPV
 
#12 ·
Nick, normally I'd say high forward single pivots do better with SPV in the Manitou line, but the ISX has such a strong mid-stoke support that it might do fine. I've never seen an air shock with such nice compression control through the normally soft spot in an air shock.
 
E
#13 ·
Tim Mailloux said:
Very intresting post. I am looking to get the ISX-4 for my Ibex Atlas (high single pivot). I assumed the ISX-4 was an SPV. With my suspension set up would I benifit more from the SPV or Intrinsic. I currently have a non-platform Manitou Metal and the bike doesn't bob at all. So I would think that I don't need the SPV
Click to expand...
I <3 the ISX4 my Atlas carries :thumbsup:
 
#17 ·
Nick G said:
Ipranal, You have a Heckler with an ISX-4 intrinsic version?
Click to expand...
Nope, sorry... I built up an Ibex Atlas Pro frame I got on ebay (for under $200, including shock :D)

I'm told it's the same as an Azonic revenge- same frame, slightly different aluminum (6066 vs. 7001 or something along those lines) and different shock
 
D
#25 ·
any experience with a manitou evolved isx-6 on a santa cruz blur (classic, 110mm travel). old shock is an manitou air5, and i have the intrinsic laying around. will be for my girlfriend's bike- she's about 160, looking for a plush bike for fun. setting the front end to 100/120 on a new SID (depending on terrain). she doesn't take anything big, just wants a supple ride. I had her on a 150mm khs 555xct, but i can build the santa cruz about 8 lbs lighter. I have a chance on a fox rp2, got to double check length and stroke. i have a feeling that would be a better match, but its off of a kona hei-hei.
 
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