What forks from around 2001?

[mk one]

Can anyone tell me what forks were around in 2001? any recommendations for a good one, i currently have a SID SL but wanted something with a bit less flex. Weight isnt really as much an issue as function.

Thanks

Mark

 

[shogun]

Re:

So, an XC type fork? I think a Manitou Mars Super would fit the bill. Rockshox Duke SL could be a winner too, much stiffer than the Sid.

 

[FluffyChicken]

Re:

An easy go to fork form 2001 is
Marzocchi Bombers.

 

[Duxuk]

Yes, Marzocchi Bombers all the way. I had the coil sprung version which gave about 140mm of travel. They lasted me 'til 2016 and still had no play and the damping was working like new! I gave them away 'cos I no longer had a frame that they'd fit on.

 

[mk one]

Thanks guys, and yes, for XC use and ideally 80mm but maybe 100mm as i dont mind running a lot of sag, as long as its got a good damper.

Have been looking at Bombers, not sure on years though, from what i can work out the Z4 is around the 2001 mark, or do the numbers not progress along with years?

 

[shogun]

IMO most of the other forks of the era have better action than Bombers which are plush but lacking in support, dive badly etc. However the Bomber chassis is the most rugged for sure and they are the most reliable.

What about sliding forward to 2002-2003 and getting a Fox? Really an early Vanilla or F80-F100 would crap on all of the above from a great height.

 

[FluffyChicken]

Re:

Are the Fox reliable?
Never used them

Bombers...
The number it the 'level'
Z1 being the long travel downhill or whatever was the need more travel name for that year.
Z2 being the XC range-ish most would get these.
Z3 being the entry level range, often on OEM cheaper midrange bikes bikes
Z4 a tag along they added for bargain basement.

All have the same basic bushing, seal, shape setup.
Each level has different models within the range.
These changed year to year.

 

[mk one]

Thanks FC, thats great just what i needed.

I have had a few fox forks and dont mind them but finding an early set with canti bosses is hard and they fetch high money nowadays.

 

[ishaw]

Re:

You can get 32mm Sid and Reba with brake bosses. Better than fox by a country mile, but not easy to find. I have a small stash but most are in use, or I have plans for. Worth looking out for.

 

[Gerard]

Rond Quake Air....stiffer than 28mm SIDs.