Mountain Biking - 5th Element Air Shock

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MtnBikerChk
09-07-03, 04:44 PM
so what do you think? I've read lots of threads where people have tried it and loved it - but then most of them said the shock started leaking air and oil.

This late in the season do you think it's safe? (I'm usually one to NEVER buy first year production products but this one seems like a great one).

HELP!

dirtbikedude
09-07-03, 08:37 PM
Since it is a first year production and riders are complaining about the shock leaking I would say wait until they get the seals fixed.

One thing to consider though, the riders who complained, what type of riding were they doing? If it consisted of jumping and drops then I would not expect an air shock to hold up.



:beer:
a2psyklnut
09-09-03, 10:56 AM
Hey MBC, long time no hear. You spending most of your time over at the monkey?

Oh yeah, back to topic, what ^ said. You're light, so shouldn't have any problems with an air shock. The people who generally blow air shocks are people like me who weight 250lbs and do stupid stuff.

I wouldn't suggest an air shock to anyone over 200 lbs.

L8R

zzyxzz
09-09-03, 06:23 PM
My Blur came with the Fox AVA, which for the record worked well. I had the opportunity to purchase the 5th and jumped at the chance, cause I :love: to upgrade...

Anyway, the 5th feels very stiff and rides just like the Fox. Once it starts to move however, it feels SOOOO plush.

So what am I babbling about.... the 5th is an excellent pedaling platform shock. I have had no air leakage (unlike the Fox), or oil leakage. It is lighter, and suffers less sideloading. I recommend the shock to anyone who needs a new one ( or :love: to upgrade). ;)
bac
09-10-03, 08:58 AM
I have only one ride on my Blur thus far, but I did opt for the 5th Element Air shock. Prior to this, I rode a demo model Blur with the Fox AVA several times. Here are my thoughts:

I concur with zzyxzz - the 5th Element is an awesome shock. It changes the Blur from just a slight bob when out of the saddle bike, to a no bob bike. It also feels very plush in the rough stuff. Thus far, I think I made the correct decision on this shock. I'll know more after a few more rides, and a chance to do more in terms of set-up.

Good luck with your choice! :)