|   Manitou Mars or Marzocchi Z3?? | CJH
Apr 9, 2002 7:12 AM | | I recently purchased a 2001 Jamis Dakota AL that come with the basic model Manitou Mars. This is the model without compression or rebound damping.
Even though the fork came with too soft of a spring for my 200 lb weight, the action of the fork seems pretty good and I think it will ride fine if I get a stiffer spring and a pump so I can keep the air pressure where I need it.
However, I've heard of a lot of mechanical problems with the Mars fork and I don't want to invest in a stiffer spring, pump, and grease gun head if this fork ends up being a lemon.
A friend of mine has a Marzocchi Bomber from a few years ago and I've ridden it a fair amount. Even though it weighs a lot and is very active, I love the stability of the fork and its super plush feel.
I should also add that I've dislocated both of my shoulders so a solid suspension fork is very important to me. I simply cannot ride without one.
So here is my problem. The bike shop where I got my bike has offered me full trade in on my Mars fork if I want to switch to a Marzocchi from last year. Obviously that offer won't be on the table much longer if I continue to ride the Mars.
So should I spend the $40 for the stiffer spring and the pump or should I go ahead and get the Marzocchi while I still can?
Thanks for any advice. I really don't want to find out a year from now that the Mars is more trouble that its worth and have to toss it and pay full price for a Marzocchi. |
| 200lbs.... go with the 'zocchi | Aaron
Apr 9, 2002 3:48 PM | | from what ive heard the mars is not a big person fork and since your mars doesnt have damping a z3 would probably be a good upgrade. Its certainly a good deal heavier but it will handle bigger hits and flex much less. Also you can get an air/coil conversion kit. |
| Mars has damping | Mikey
Apr 10, 2002 1:44 PM | | The Mars is oil-damped. It's just not externally adjustable on the base model - you have to change the oil weight to adjust the damping. |
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