No Zeb Ultimate with the charger 3 damper? Sounds like Formula bought themselves a test win. It literally makes no sense why you wouldn't test the top Zeb when you have a Grip 2 Fox (elite performs identical to factory, blingy stanchions are just bling) a D1 DVO and an ungodly expensive EXT fork
We have a separate review of the latest Zeb Ultimate coming to the website soon, so stay tuned for that. We do completely independent reviews, we never sell "wins" to brands. We tried to keep the price points varied to see how cheaper options compare to the more expensive forks out, and with the scores so close and testing being kept as consistent as possible, there was little to separate them in terms of performance, even taking price into account
@@stevenkilleen8149 I don't know. I think that everyone knows more or less how fox and rockshox behave and compare to each other. I'm personally much more interested in seeing other, less known brands. Not because the mainstream forks are bad but because there is more than them to explore.
I've been riding Formula forks on my long travel trail bikes since 2018, and they are absolutely fantastic. Currently, Im riding the Formula Selva R, and it is simply impecable
@JOE-uq8oh I have the formula selva r too and compared to fox its alot better for technical trails, if you tune it a bit with cts then it's the same for flow trails too.
@@tylerbruce5731 They have tested the pro. The test was a disaster. The tester thought the rebound was overdamper and then proceeded to try and fix it by lowering the air pressure, and to his surprise it made it worse. lol wtf??? That told me all I need to know about that test. But, where did you get a mezzer pro for 600 eur? I'll get one then. Sounds too good to be true.
@@TeamCykelhold both Ive ordered from the German sites (bike24 I think). They are often on sale. Currently looks like they are going for 620-714 euro depending on the wheel size/offset. Yeah Ive seen quite a few earlier tests/reviews that seem to indicate the testers didnt really understand setup. The Mezzer Pro along with many if not all dual chamber forks needs a bit more time to set up the correct pressures. Unlike RS and Fox. I had to get a Diaz Runt (dual positive cartridge replacing tokens) for my Lyrik to get it to feel good and it also took more time to set up.
The compression of the Grip2 is just as hard for heavy riders. I weigh 140kg ready to ride and run my Fox 38 Factory 180mm with 135 PSI and 25% SAG and have to run the compression completely open and would open it even further if it were possible. I would especially like to open the LSC a few clicks further, because the fork is very rigid with small impacts and the breakaway torque is relatively high. At high speeds and on tough routes this isn't a problem and the traction is still very good, but it's not an advantage for comfort. I will definitely have them tuned at MST. The rebound also seems very slow to me, despite the high air pressure.
@@MrChadLedford Which bike do you have? A Mondraker? Apparently the Fox 38 180mm Grip2 E-Tuned on my Mondraker Level RR 2023 is not normal. Fox said I should send the fork in under warranty because it's not normal for the rebound to be so slow at 135 PSI and the fork to be so hard. If the fork is functional, I will still have it tuned at MST and adjusted to my weight.
Light riders running a fox 38 wide open! Im having to add tokens to mine! 75kg rider here, the Fox 38 is far too soft, its the Zebb Ultimate for me next time
@@chadson5244 its actually kinda wild how much ppl hold on to RS and especially Fox. Manitou Mezzer Pro has dual positive chambers as standard which gives infinite tuning adjustment of the airspring so any weight and riding style is accommodated. Has air pressure release as standard on the lowers and uses the more sensible screws which means less chance of failure for a function that is rarely used. Hydraulic bottom out in the damper which again allows more adjustability for a wider variety of weights and riding styles. Another great thing is how easy they are to work on. A great thing is the chamfered stanchions which makes reassembling the lowers much easier.
When will the video for the EXT Era V2.1 come out? It would be cool if you included this fork in this suspension fork test as an afterthought, but in a new video. So in the review of the Era V2.1 you say again where it would have ranked in this suspension fork test if it had been there. The same thing with the ZEB Charger 3 + Buttercups would also be interesting. Your videos are very high quality
I understand that there is another video for the Fox 38 Factory, Zeb Ult and Lyrik, but I just can’t help but wonder, how thus they compare to the Selva R? Are they better or the Selva is? I am considering the Selva R for my next fork.
i now bought a devinci with a formula nero R on it, dh fork of formula, which has not only negative and positive chamber, but even a progression chamber that works as an air token and manipulate the ending curve of the escursion, i have 2 neopos in it but i have to understand how it would work with 1 less. BTW, formula are the most tunable forks out there. On the selva you can change CTS valves so you manipulate the behaviour of the fork. I like my nero, used it 3 times it was really good.
I've had a nightmare with fox build quality. So it's probably representative of what you'll get from fox great when they work. But in reality unless your going to strip and rebuild your fox fork and considering it's one of the more expensive options to begin with
Funny how we talk about a 35mm stanchion as though it's not burly enough when not 2 years ago the enduro fork of choice for up to 190mm was the 35mm lyrik.
We have the versions tested as they have not been reviewed by us previously, having done reviews of the Zeb Ultimate and Mezzer Pro before in this video - th-cam.com/video/7Y_RliBb0YA/w-d-xo.html They certainly compare well to the top-end versions, the Mezzer in particular
Question, as a heavier rider (250lbs ish) could i get better response by running a e bike suspension? My front isn't bad but i use all the 160mm out back on fairly mild trails
I’m 220lbs and on an ebike. I found the main difference in the setup was just more volume spacers to increase ramp up over a non ebike setup. In the end I actually removed a spacer from them because the ramp up was too aggressive and felt like I was hitting a kind of soft bottom out condition in harsher trails. This is obviously my experience but I found removing the volume spacers and running higher pressures was much better because I had the extra support throughout the whole range of travel rather than just when the ramp up increased the pressure to a similar point. If you’re at the limit of the shock pressure range you might get stuck though obviously. That’s just my 2pence worth anyway. Good luck big guy. Keep on shredding.
You'd perhaps benefit from a tune for the suspension, most of the time the shocks are the same between normal and e-bikes, some forks are e-bike specific, but this is generally just a stronger chassis. We'd recommend finding a service centre that could do a custom tune on the shock for you.
You lost me in the first 10 mins! Please do your homework: Onyx D1 stanchions= 36mm and NOT 35mm and Setup guide recommends even for light riders, some OTT adjustment.
@@becauseshesgotabeard5947 This is a shit fuck video with loads of misinformation. People take these very seriously and spend lots of money with the creators opinions in mind. Of course they need to be called out.
Fair comment, a slight slip of Tom's tongue for the 35mm part, he has been suitably punished 😂 We tried the recommended settings for all forks and tuned from there until we felt they were performing as we wanted them too.
Well. Be honest I completely disagree with you. In my opinion EXT era is the best fork in this test. I have ridden all of them but I like the most I'm not sure if you tuned it by EXT right?
EXT only offers two different tunes for the Era, so not much of custom tuning there. Although it's a good fork it's flexier than other forks (I blame the weird steerer tube that isn't tapered), and performance wise it's quite similar to the Mezzer.
@@tobb3h what? steerer tube is tapered, and they can custom tune it to you, and you bike. I know, what i'm talking cuz I had tuning done. You should do seme research before you start talking ;)
@@bikeradar sorry, I don't understand meaning of "horses for courses" I can't any find good translation to my language. Can u write it the easiest way possible? Thx guys!
A horse can perform well one day, on one course, and terribly on another day in a different place. Perfect for you is maybe just average for someone else
We have reviewed the Durolux before, so that's why it was not included in this test. Check out the review for the Durolux in this video - th-cam.com/video/7Y_RliBb0YA/w-d-xo.html
Nice change for sure, but it has the same drawbacks as any other coil fork. Air is still good and so is coil, so nice to have the choice depending on your preference
@@Prof-Power Ohlins makes great products. Fork is better than Fox in my opinion. The dampening makes it feel more plush, good midstroke support. But EXT is King in all those categories
Confused why you are using a Zeb select against Fox grip 2 and a $1300 ext fork. Seriously calls into question any conclusions that might be arrived at using this review. Only Ultimate Rock Shox forks come with Buttercups tech and are still $200 cheaper than EXT Fork featured.
We can see what you mean, but we tested cheaper options to see how they stack up to more expensive options. Testing protocol was the same for all forks as outlined in the video, so with both scoring the same 3.5 stars, we feel they're comparable in performance, regardless of cost.
I find it silly to compare products with others that cost nearly double, you should at least had a high end and "budget" comparison. No other industry does that, we never see car comparisons with cars costing double of each other for example. I also think this format is out of date and brings no additional information for the users, if you guys want to make some useful content you should start doing some measurements. I do realize it takes some technical knowlegde and skills you might be lacking but i bet there's plenty of suspension tuners with the right equipment willing to collaborate. But in the end it's all about money and it's way easier to throw some footage togheter in a pretty way and score thousands of views. Take it easy.
kinda looks like the bikes were ridden where i'd be ok on a 34mm fork, and the lightest fork is the presenter's favorite. this makes me wonder about it being stiff enough. otherwise, why not using a smaller, lighter fork. Even the rider complains the compression settings are for heavier riders lol...
Actual testing was covered on a different track/location to what was used in filming and was appropriate for the intended use of the forks. While Tom presented this video, our tech writer Luke carried out testing the forks and he is a very, very capable rider, so he'd know if they flexed or not, even if he is at the lighter end of the scale for the compression settings of some forks.
Thank you for a great comparison. But I'm afraid that, aside from having a favorite at the the end (does that mean that the Fox being the forst was the worst?), it is not as useful as a complete Best / Good / Bad article. Also, you cannot name this the "Best Enduro Fork" since you're not using top of the line in all brands. I would say this is the best budget enduro fork. To do a "best" shootout, you'd have to go for the likes of ZEB Ultimate or Fox 38 Factory, which widely outperform the cheaper models presented.
Well the 38 which they featured is the performance elite which is exactly the same as the factory except for the kashima legs which 99.99% of riders don't notice anyway
So we added the ZEB Select instead of the new Charger 3 with Buttercups ULTIMATE because it would probably not make the *sponsor of this video or channel happy* ? Cool cool cool Unsubscribed.
Thanks for your comment, we don't have sponsors for any review videos, and for anything that is sponsored content, this is outlined at the start of any video. ALL reviews we do are completely independent
We have reviewed Intend's Ebonite before, so that's why it was not included in this test. Check out the review for the Ebonite in this video - th-cam.com/video/7Y_RliBb0YA/w-d-xo.html
comparing 38 performance elite with Zeb select is already a big question mark for me.... why just not compare apples to apples.... grip2 vs charger3 maybe?
We've tested the Ultimate and Factory versions before, so thought we'd mix it up. Both forks scored the same, so shows how good a cheaper, supposedly "inferior" fork can match up to a more expensive "superior" one.
We have tested the Zeb Ultimate before, so wanted to mix things up a bit and include some cheaper options. You can check out our last review of the Zeb ultimate here - th-cam.com/video/7Y_RliBb0YA/w-d-xo.html The scoring criteria is the same for all the forks, so if a cheaper fork matches a more expensive one, we'd say it's done pretty well! Some brands, like Cane Creek, Ohlins, EXT also don't have "budget" options as such.
All forks are plenty stiff. eeeehhh no they are not. If all testriders ride pushbikes and weigh in at a mere 75kg the point off choosing a stiffer fork is lost in this test.....
Rider weight is not everything when it comes to fork stiffness, we're pretty sure a lightweight, sub 70kg pro rider would flex a 38 more than a 120kg beginner...
We make any brand aware that a product we are reviewing from them is going into a group test, hence why they usually send us the highest versions. We aimed with this test to review forks we haven't covered before.
@@bikeradar But when you market the video around the best enduro forks isnt it contradictory to use just any fork made by the manifacturer and not the high end models ? Like surely someone had to approach sram with "hey, you sure about this fork mate ?"
@@contracostarippers. Zeb select ... really ... apparently RS didn't buy a test win like Formula did. Formula is also one of their primary channel sponsors.
We don't have sponsors for any review videos, and for anything that is sponsored content, this is outlined at the start of any video. ALL reviews we do are completely independent
Tbh all of this fork are shit until you custom tune them, All pros get custom tuned suspension only privateer ride it stock and maybe not because some of them even have sponsor that tune it for them. The only thing you can ride stock tbh is a coil rear shock, fork 100% needed custom tune even what brand it is
Most better suspension shops can custom tune RS and Fox for you, that isn't just for pros. DVO will also do custom tunes, but you have to send it in, their dealers can't do custom tunes anymore. Good luck finding a shop that will even do a lower service on a Formula, EXT or Cane Creek fork. Most LBS will service DVO if you provide parts because they're super easy to service.
@@mrvwbug4423 I didn’t say it’s just for pros I’m saying all Pros have custom tune that’s why theirs are running good and people will complain their fork and shock don’t work well and the reason is they didn’t even setup it right. most people don’t know suspension tuning even exist some of them even buy those silly orange forks because of “adjustability”. Setting up sag and just messing around with settings is most people do. Most shops cant custom tune really well, to tune suspension you have to know the frame leverage ratio,progression,anti squat,axle path etc. If you want lower service for your Formula, EXT, CC fork just go to the experts lmao why would you go to a shop that only knows RS and Fox I don’t trust them
We have reviewed the Durolux before, so that's why it was not included in this test. Check out the review for the Durolux in this video - th-cam.com/video/7Y_RliBb0YA/w-d-xo.html
Why would you spend good money to buy a fork from Formula? Their brakes are highly overrated and good luck finding service and/or aftermarket support for it. An Enduro fork by definition is going to be smashed and ridden hard, hence the need for regular service and maintenance. Again - good luck with that.
The best forks are quickly explained then we have the longest part of the video about the sponsor. The one with Seb was such a great video, sad to see this🥲
This video was not sponsored by any brand, and the ones we felt performed the best were given the most time on screen. Just because the XYZ brand didn't win, doesn't make it a sponsored video 😉
What is your favourite enduro fork?
ext era all the way🤩
Formula Selva R of course 😍🤙
Mezzer
Zeb with a Vorsprung coil conversion
DVO onyx sc d1, I did put my money where my mouth is I have two, also a onyx SL 38. Regret not having the Ott on the 38
Manitou is way ahead of the competition. I love how my Mezzer and Dorados work
But not Formula.
I got a Manitou in 2004, it hasnt been serviced once and still works like when it was new! That brand is something special
No Zeb Ultimate with the charger 3 damper? Sounds like Formula bought themselves a test win. It literally makes no sense why you wouldn't test the top Zeb when you have a Grip 2 Fox (elite performs identical to factory, blingy stanchions are just bling) a D1 DVO and an ungodly expensive EXT fork
We have a separate review of the latest Zeb Ultimate coming to the website soon, so stay tuned for that.
We do completely independent reviews, we never sell "wins" to brands.
We tried to keep the price points varied to see how cheaper options compare to the more expensive forks out, and with the scores so close and testing being kept as consistent as possible, there was little to separate them in terms of performance, even taking price into account
Comparing apples to old apples....Seems silly
So silly not running the ultimate
Yeah I’m also missing the zeb ultimate but I’m not sure if it would win
@@stevenkilleen8149 I don't know. I think that everyone knows more or less how fox and rockshox behave and compare to each other.
I'm personally much more interested in seeing other, less known brands. Not because the mainstream forks are bad but because there is more than them to explore.
I've been riding Formula forks on my long travel trail bikes since 2018, and they are absolutely fantastic. Currently, Im riding the Formula Selva R, and it is simply impecable
It's a great fork for sure!
Would you say a Formula S is better than a Lyrik select plus, ultimate or fox 36 factory?
Great, I am currently considering this for over fox 38 grip x2 or zeb charger 3.1, whats your opinion?
@JOE-uq8oh I have the formula selva r too and compared to fox its alot better for technical trails, if you tune it a bit with cts then it's the same for flow trails too.
Mezzer is the cheapest and among the best. I ride the Pro for the hbo and irt; excellent systems.
yeah same. I haven't tried the formula fork but I have tried most of the others and the mezzer is the best.
And its a bit sad they didnt test the pro. They are quite different systems and to be clear Ive paid about 600-700euro for both Mezzers that I have.
@@tylerbruce5731 They have tested the pro. The test was a disaster. The tester thought the rebound was overdamper and then proceeded to try and fix it by lowering the air pressure, and to his surprise it made it worse. lol wtf??? That told me all I need to know about that test. But, where did you get a mezzer pro for 600 eur? I'll get one then. Sounds too good to be true.
@@TeamCykelhold both Ive ordered from the German sites (bike24 I think). They are often on sale. Currently looks like they are going for 620-714 euro depending on the wheel size/offset.
Yeah Ive seen quite a few earlier tests/reviews that seem to indicate the testers didnt really understand setup.
The Mezzer Pro along with many if not all dual chamber forks needs a bit more time to set up the correct pressures. Unlike RS and Fox.
I had to get a Diaz Runt (dual positive cartridge replacing tokens) for my Lyrik to get it to feel good and it also took more time to set up.
Team mezzer!
The compression of the Grip2 is just as hard for heavy riders. I weigh 140kg ready to ride and run my Fox 38 Factory 180mm with 135 PSI and 25% SAG and have to run the compression completely open and would open it even further if it were possible. I would especially like to open the LSC a few clicks further, because the fork is very rigid with small impacts and the breakaway torque is relatively high. At high speeds and on tough routes this isn't a problem and the traction is still very good, but it's not an advantage for comfort. I will definitely have them tuned at MST. The rebound also seems very slow to me, despite the high air pressure.
So glad to hear from others that have experienced this.
@@MrChadLedford Which bike do you have? A Mondraker? Apparently the Fox 38 180mm Grip2 E-Tuned on my Mondraker Level RR 2023 is not normal. Fox said I should send the fork in under warranty because it's not normal for the rebound to be so slow at 135 PSI and the fork to be so hard. If the fork is functional, I will still have it tuned at MST and adjusted to my weight.
incredible test!! congratulation to formula for taking this one, I hope the next iteration of this review includes the new belva.
Light riders running a fox 38 wide open! Im having to add tokens to mine! 75kg rider here, the Fox 38 is far too soft, its the Zebb Ultimate for me next time
The best fork is the Zeb Ultimate Charger 3.
Manitou Mezzer/Dorado, Intend Flash/Edge/Bandit/Infinity
For real, I'm moving from a 36 factory to a Lyric Ultimate on my trail bike after riding one on my hard tail. Super smooth and quiet.
Mainstream-boys will never know how good a Manitou mezzer is.
@@chadson5244 its actually kinda wild how much ppl hold on to RS and especially Fox.
Manitou Mezzer Pro has dual positive chambers as standard which gives infinite tuning adjustment of the airspring so any weight and riding style is accommodated.
Has air pressure release as standard on the lowers and uses the more sensible screws which means less chance of failure for a function that is rarely used.
Hydraulic bottom out in the damper which again allows more adjustability for a wider variety of weights and riding styles.
Another great thing is how easy they are to work on. A great thing is the chamfered stanchions which makes reassembling the lowers much easier.
@@tylerbruce5731 mezzer is also lighter than lyrik and has greater range of travel 140-180mm. Also 37mm stanchion sweet spot
I really liked Zeb's review of forks.
Not sure if incredible Pun or error spelling 😂
@@bikeradar Spelling error...
Excellent Tom 🎉
🙏
The Onyx is a 36mm fork. DVO's 35mm fork is the Diamond.
i was going to say the same thing
5:40 I think y'all forgot about the zeb base
Fair point, but the Zeb base is not technically available aftermarket, as its OEM only
When will the video for the EXT Era V2.1 come out? It would be cool if you included this fork in this suspension fork test as an afterthought, but in a new video. So in the review of the Era V2.1 you say again where it would have ranked in this suspension fork test if it had been there. The same thing with the ZEB Charger 3 + Buttercups would also be interesting. Your videos are very high quality
I understand that there is another video for the Fox 38 Factory, Zeb Ult and Lyrik, but I just can’t help but wonder, how thus they compare to the Selva R? Are they better or the Selva is? I am considering the Selva R for my next fork.
i now bought a devinci with a formula nero R on it, dh fork of formula, which has not only negative and positive chamber, but even a progression chamber that works as an air token and manipulate the ending curve of the escursion, i have 2 neopos in it but i have to understand how it would work with 1 less.
BTW, formula are the most tunable forks out there. On the selva you can change CTS valves so you manipulate the behaviour of the fork. I like my nero, used it 3 times it was really good.
That fox 38 negative air chamber might be full of grease or oil. I've sat on a 38 and it's pretty supple.
Good shout, as we have seen this before, these were all good though!
@@bikeradar these days it seems that Fox rather sell forks dry as dust. they have to be services straight away, as soon as bought.
I've had a nightmare with fox build quality. So it's probably representative of what you'll get from fox great when they work. But in reality unless your going to strip and rebuild your fox fork and considering it's one of the more expensive options to begin with
Tested a Fox Factory 38 on a demo bike last weekend and it destroyed my wrists.
Classic fox air chamber using grease as a volume spacer.
Funny how we talk about a 35mm stanchion as though it's not burly enough when not 2 years ago the enduro fork of choice for up to 190mm was the 35mm lyrik.
Should be Zeb Ultimate, and Mezzer Pro to macth the more expensive ones. But otherwice good test.
At minimum the Select+
We have the versions tested as they have not been reviewed by us previously, having done reviews of the Zeb Ultimate and Mezzer Pro before in this video - th-cam.com/video/7Y_RliBb0YA/w-d-xo.html
They certainly compare well to the top-end versions, the Mezzer in particular
Question, as a heavier rider (250lbs ish) could i get better response by running a e bike suspension? My front isn't bad but i use all the 160mm out back on fairly mild trails
I’m 220lbs and on an ebike. I found the main difference in the setup was just more volume spacers to increase ramp up over a non ebike setup. In the end I actually removed a spacer from them because the ramp up was too aggressive and felt like I was hitting a kind of soft bottom out condition in harsher trails. This is obviously my experience but I found removing the volume spacers and running higher pressures was much better because I had the extra support throughout the whole range of travel rather than just when the ramp up increased the pressure to a similar point. If you’re at the limit of the shock pressure range you might get stuck though obviously. That’s just my 2pence worth anyway. Good luck big guy. Keep on shredding.
You'd perhaps benefit from a tune for the suspension, most of the time the shocks are the same between normal and e-bikes, some forks are e-bike specific, but this is generally just a stronger chassis.
We'd recommend finding a service centre that could do a custom tune on the shock for you.
Is the 2025 edition with the new zeb out?
The DVO Onyx has 36mm stanchions not 35 as mentioned in the presentation. The DVO diamond has 35 stanchions
This is the only time it's acceptable to say "forks" in mountain biking instead of "fork"
Would have been nice to see the mezzer pro only because I want to see it more.
You lost me in the first 10 mins!
Please do your homework:
Onyx D1 stanchions= 36mm and NOT 35mm and
Setup guide recommends even for light riders, some OTT adjustment.
Wow. Bet you're fun at parties
@@becauseshesgotabeard5947 This is a shit fuck video with loads of misinformation. People take these very seriously and spend lots of money with the creators opinions in mind. Of course they need to be called out.
Fair comment, a slight slip of Tom's tongue for the 35mm part, he has been suitably punished 😂
We tried the recommended settings for all forks and tuned from there until we felt they were performing as we wanted them too.
Selvas get their recognition alost 7 years after being released... Now waiting for somebody to actually review the Nero
It' s a great fork! We'd love to do a downhill fork test, will suggest to the radder riders in the team!
The dvo is a 36mm stanchion not 35 idk how they got that wrong
Ext Era, an other level!
Well. Be honest I completely disagree with you. In my opinion EXT era is the best fork in this test. I have ridden all of them but I like the most I'm not sure if you tuned it by EXT right?
EXT only offers two different tunes for the Era, so not much of custom tuning there. Although it's a good fork it's flexier than other forks (I blame the weird steerer tube that isn't tapered), and performance wise it's quite similar to the Mezzer.
Horses for courses, great to hear you're enjoying your EXT. We're excited the V2.1 to test out and see how it compares!
@@tobb3h what? steerer tube is tapered, and they can custom tune it to you, and you bike. I know, what i'm talking cuz I had tuning done. You should do seme research before you start talking ;)
@@bikeradar sorry, I don't understand meaning of "horses for courses" I can't any find good translation to my language. Can u write it the easiest way possible? Thx guys!
A horse can perform well one day, on one course, and terribly on another day in a different place. Perfect for you is maybe just average for someone else
I guess the Durolux wasn't included anymore since it's more of a freeride fork now lol
We have reviewed the Durolux before, so that's why it was not included in this test.
Check out the review for the Durolux in this video - th-cam.com/video/7Y_RliBb0YA/w-d-xo.html
There is a 38mm stanchion version of the durolux that has been released. Here's to hoping you guys check it out, and compare it to other enduro forks
The best fork is the one you put a Vorsprung Smashpot in!
I mean cool and all but when you are dumping $1000 on a fork it should work without a ton of mods.
Nice change for sure, but it has the same drawbacks as any other coil fork. Air is still good and so is coil, so nice to have the choice depending on your preference
you said the ext is the only one made in europe but the formula is made in italy
Ext or Ohlins by far. I prefer the EXT. especially at race speeds
Ohlins worst forks ever. Even Fox and Rock Shox are better.
@@Prof-Power Ohlins makes great products. Fork is better than Fox in my opinion. The dampening makes it feel more plush, good midstroke support. But EXT is King in all those categories
@bikeradar I thought Formula was made in Europe aswell as the EXT
That's correct, Formula forks are made in Italy.
Confused why you are using a Zeb select against Fox grip 2 and a $1300 ext fork. Seriously calls into question any conclusions that might be arrived at using this review. Only Ultimate Rock Shox forks come with Buttercups tech and are still $200 cheaper than EXT Fork featured.
We can see what you mean, but we tested cheaper options to see how they stack up to more expensive options.
Testing protocol was the same for all forks as outlined in the video, so with both scoring the same 3.5 stars, we feel they're comparable in performance, regardless of cost.
more likely they had a zeb select sitting around but no zeb ultimate so they use the "we wanted to test different price points" nonsense.
Bit odd that you didn't include Ohlins RFX in this
I find it silly to compare products with others that cost nearly double, you should at least had a high end and "budget" comparison.
No other industry does that, we never see car comparisons with cars costing double of each other for example.
I also think this format is out of date and brings no additional information for the users, if you guys want to make some useful content you should start doing some measurements. I do realize it takes some technical knowlegde and skills you might be lacking but i bet there's plenty of suspension tuners with the right equipment willing to collaborate.
But in the end it's all about money and it's way easier to throw some footage togheter in a pretty way and score thousands of views.
Take it easy.
kinda looks like the bikes were ridden where i'd be ok on a 34mm fork, and the lightest fork is the presenter's favorite. this makes me wonder about it being stiff enough. otherwise, why not using a smaller, lighter fork. Even the rider complains the compression settings are for heavier riders lol...
Actual testing was covered on a different track/location to what was used in filming and was appropriate for the intended use of the forks.
While Tom presented this video, our tech writer Luke carried out testing the forks and he is a very, very capable rider, so he'd know if they flexed or not, even if he is at the lighter end of the scale for the compression settings of some forks.
Thank you for a great comparison. But I'm afraid that, aside from having a favorite at the the end (does that mean that the Fox being the forst was the worst?), it is not as useful as a complete Best / Good / Bad article. Also, you cannot name this the "Best Enduro Fork" since you're not using top of the line in all brands. I would say this is the best budget enduro fork. To do a "best" shootout, you'd have to go for the likes of ZEB Ultimate or Fox 38 Factory, which widely outperform the cheaper models presented.
Well the 38 which they featured is the performance elite which is exactly the same as the factory except for the kashima legs which 99.99% of riders don't notice anyway
@@sendyboiii7 I had to replace the kashima sanctions on my Fox Grip2, went black, saved $75, no difference.
No suntour durolox ? 😟 Its so underrated
Dvo onyx is 36mm. Not 35mm
Slip of Tom's tongue, he has been sent to the naughty step!
If you are trying to find "The Best Enduro Fork", why you include budget options like the Zeb Select?
The highest end models are frequently reviewed and always good (and usually $1,200+). I'm glad we're seeing a bit of variety in the forks
@@wx2999but they literally compare it to a top end ext fork
@@janszerling5034 yes, and?
@@wx2999 Its a pointless comparison. The top spec forks are just better. End of.
@@mcspiffington no it's not. End of.
No rockshox Domain? Who would want a 38mm enduro fork for $500? Neg for you being elite snobs.
So we added the ZEB Select instead of the new Charger 3 with Buttercups ULTIMATE because it would probably not make the *sponsor of this video or channel happy* ? Cool cool cool
Unsubscribed.
Not really sure it has to do with sponsors but imo the buttercups are mostly marketing.
Thanks for your comment, we don't have sponsors for any review videos, and for anything that is sponsored content, this is outlined at the start of any video.
ALL reviews we do are completely independent
No dorolux?
"the enduro fork we have at home"
Why not include the Intend Fork?
Probably because the entire production volume so far is like 6
Which one?
@@GHinWI Hey they doesn't stop Pinkbike from putting unobtainable one off handmade steel bikes into their field tests haha
@@GHinWI I have 2 mates that have them and nothing but good reviews
We have reviewed Intend's Ebonite before, so that's why it was not included in this test.
Check out the review for the Ebonite in this video - th-cam.com/video/7Y_RliBb0YA/w-d-xo.html
comparing 38 performance elite with Zeb select is already a big question mark for me.... why just not compare apples to apples.... grip2 vs charger3 maybe?
We've tested the Ultimate and Factory versions before, so thought we'd mix it up. Both forks scored the same, so shows how good a cheaper, supposedly "inferior" fork can match up to a more expensive "superior" one.
Ohlins?
We have reviewed Ohlins forks before, check out this video for more details! th-cam.com/video/jV6d1LX0SkU/w-d-xo.html
Lol 😂guess someone elts noticed also.. still good video tho
Hey wtf! Why not test the zeb ultimate instead of testing the budget version? Since every other fork is on top of each brands line.
We have tested the Zeb Ultimate before, so wanted to mix things up a bit and include some cheaper options. You can check out our last review of the Zeb ultimate here - th-cam.com/video/7Y_RliBb0YA/w-d-xo.html
The scoring criteria is the same for all the forks, so if a cheaper fork matches a more expensive one, we'd say it's done pretty well!
Some brands, like Cane Creek, Ohlins, EXT also don't have "budget" options as such.
WTFork? I'm first? WOW!
gg
Have 100,000 Bikeradar Points! They don't mean anything, but it's the thought that counts ;)
@@bikeradarthats what they said about bitcoin once👀
the mezzer would be so good and I would buy it if if wouldn't be so damn ugly
All forks are plenty stiff. eeeehhh no they are not. If all testriders ride pushbikes and weigh in at a mere 75kg the point off choosing a stiffer fork is lost in this test.....
Yep, go to any bike park in the UK I bet less than 10% of riders are under 75kg!
Yeah skinny minnies are not who should be testing enduro forks. These guys won't flex a 34 much less a 38.
Rider weight is not everything when it comes to fork stiffness, we're pretty sure a lightweight, sub 70kg pro rider would flex a 38 more than a 120kg beginner...
Fair few keyboard warriors in the comments. Just run what you brung. Majority of people wouldn’t feel the difference anyway 🤣
cant trust a guy who dosent wear knee pads
Who sancioned this at BikeRadar ? If i was rockshox i would file a lawsuit for the absolutely unfair representation.
This is not how the law works.
We make any brand aware that a product we are reviewing from them is going into a group test, hence why they usually send us the highest versions.
We aimed with this test to review forks we haven't covered before.
@@bikeradar But when you market the video around the best enduro forks isnt it contradictory to use just any fork made by the manifacturer and not the high end models ? Like surely someone had to approach sram with "hey, you sure about this fork mate ?"
This review is way worse than the ones from previous years.
This vid sponsored by formula. What a coincidence
Where does it say they're sponsored by formula? I just watched the video again and couldn't find anything about a sponsorship.
@@contracostarippers. Zeb select ... really ... apparently RS didn't buy a test win like Formula did. Formula is also one of their primary channel sponsors.
@@mrvwbug4423 where can I find a list of the sponsors?
We don't have sponsors for any review videos, and for anything that is sponsored content, this is outlined at the start of any video.
ALL reviews we do are completely independent
Tbh all of this fork are shit until you custom tune them, All pros get custom tuned suspension only privateer ride it stock and maybe not because some of them even have sponsor that tune it for them. The only thing you can ride stock tbh is a coil rear shock, fork 100% needed custom tune even what brand it is
Most better suspension shops can custom tune RS and Fox for you, that isn't just for pros. DVO will also do custom tunes, but you have to send it in, their dealers can't do custom tunes anymore. Good luck finding a shop that will even do a lower service on a Formula, EXT or Cane Creek fork. Most LBS will service DVO if you provide parts because they're super easy to service.
@@mrvwbug4423 I didn’t say it’s just for pros I’m saying all Pros have custom tune that’s why theirs are running good and people will complain their fork and shock don’t work well and the reason is they didn’t even setup it right. most people don’t know suspension tuning even exist some of them even buy those silly orange forks because of “adjustability”. Setting up sag and just messing around with settings is most people do. Most shops cant custom tune really well, to tune suspension you have to know the frame leverage ratio,progression,anti squat,axle path etc. If you want lower service for your Formula, EXT, CC fork just go to the experts lmao why would you go to a shop that only knows RS and Fox I don’t trust them
While forks can be made better with a custom tune, we think that most are very impressive as they come from factory.
No Suntour durolux? Geez
We have reviewed the Durolux before, so that's why it was not included in this test.
Check out the review for the Durolux in this video - th-cam.com/video/7Y_RliBb0YA/w-d-xo.html
Why would you spend good money to buy a fork from Formula? Their brakes are highly overrated and good luck finding service and/or aftermarket support for it. An Enduro fork by definition is going to be smashed and ridden hard, hence the need for regular service and maintenance. Again - good luck with that.
Formula have great support here in the UK by Mojo Rising, so servicing brakes or forks should be easy. They are really good too!
Their brakes are underrated, especially the 2 piston cura
These Reviews mean nothing to me.
This is an embarrassment
This channel is just a joke now.
The best forks are quickly explained then we have the longest part of the video about the sponsor. The one with Seb was such a great video, sad to see this🥲
This video was not sponsored by any brand, and the ones we felt performed the best were given the most time on screen. Just because the XYZ brand didn't win, doesn't make it a sponsored video 😉
Duuuude… that were at least 4 adverts for 15 minutes…