Opinions: best circa $650 XC fork.

[mtb1611]

Hey peeps. As the title says: what do y'all think is the best XC fork, max price $650?

[Oddjob]

Depends on how heavy you are and what kind of use you intend for it.

Generally I think its pretty hard to go wrong with the Fox range. I personally run a Talas TLC on a Meteore Team, as the Skareb it came with was too racey and light for me. The Talas has performed beautifully and is really versatile with its range of adjustments. If you want something racier look at a Fox F 80 RLT, Manitou Skareb Super or Platinum, RS Sid. Umm these might be a bit out of your price range though unless you go second hand...

Shameles plug. I have a set of 03 Skareb Supers for sale for $300.

[Grover]

Brand new I'd be looking at the Manitou Skareb Comp. A little bit heavier duty and you'd move up to a Manitou Black but don't know the model in that pricerange. If you can wait a few more months the Manitou R7 Comp should be around the $650 mark and would be awesome.

FOX will be too expensive new. Rock Shox wise the Duke's or Pilot's aren't bad (they'll be changing their names next year) but I like Manitou more.

For a lightish - <70kgs, maybe 75 - rider my first choice would be the R7's if you can wait. If you can't I love Skareb's.

A little bit heavy or harder riding style and the Black's are brilliant.

[Disco]

I'd vouch for the Rockshox Dukes, well in par with the Blacks.
Travel and Rebound Ajust, with a decent weight and great stiffness.
Probably pick up a pair for a nice price too..

Michael

[leighha]

these
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