Mountain Biking - Manitou Six Fork

Hi all,

I am about to make my first "bike store" quality purchase, and am very seriously considering the 2004 specialized rockhopper. Everything I have read about the bike seems to be great, except for the front fork it comes with, Manitou SIX with 80mm (13/15")
I read reviews at mtbr.com, where most everyone thrashed it and said it was a p.o.s. So my question to you all, is this something I should be worried about breaking? I plan on doing some trails with it,and if I get confident enough, maybe 1-3 feet drops. I have a feeling for my (newbie) riding, I won't be in much danger of breaking the fork, but reading all those bad reviews concerns me a little. Also most people think the tires suck (Specialized Roll X 26 x 2.0", wire bead), should I be concerned about either of these negatives or just buy what looks to be a great bike?

thanks a lot in advance
ScottG

just buy what looks to be a great bike?

You answered this for yourself:http://www.cripplefight.com/smileys/confused.gif


It is a solid entry level bike that will serve you well. Remember forks and tires are easly replaced. Most bikes spec with a tire that will fork ok for most conditions.

I've actually heard positivecomments about the tires from some people. It's all about riding style, riding conditions, and personal opinion. The fork is something that will serve you fine for now, especailly if you are somewhat new to the sport of mountain biking. When you become more experienced and think that you would really notice the difference of a new fork, then it's time to upgrade. If you want to get it swapped out now, some LBS' will give you credit for the fork the bike currently has towards another, with you picking up the extra. Worth checking out. If you like the bike, go for it. That's what really matters.

-Moab

what a coincidence. i was looking at the same bike.
ScottG, if you dont mind me asking, how much are you getting the bike for?

Don't mind at all
I actually went out and got it today, I found it on sale for 389. I pretty good deal I think. So yes... I'm excited, so excited I'm going to go ride it right now
Thanks all
Scott

My Marin has that fork and I like it pretty well. Just took a week long trip to northern CO and abused it some, it seem to work really well.

if you look at what a lot of people are doing with equipment that they say is garbage you will find that they are doing things they are not designed to do. after I got my magnum fork I saw where some were trashing the fact that they would not hold up well to 7'-10' drops.yes it may be entry level stuff but you said you are entry level at buying bikes so ride it and like anything else you may want to change or you may find that 80mm is enough fork for you.as far as tires go ride them too. if you dont like them you can get new ones for very little when you find them on sale. a fork is a bigger investment. thats a good deal on your new bike.congrats and welcome to the forum.

The Manitou Six is about 10 times better than the top-of-the-line forks of 10 years ago. The riders of the past felt blessed to have them vs. what they had before. So, it's all relative. Yes it's a P.O.S. compared to a fork that costs as much as your whole bike. No, it's not a P.O.S. for the value you'll get out of it.

It's not designed for 3' drops, but chances are your skill isn't up to that task either. It's an entry level fork designed for an entry level rider. As your skill increases, so should your equipment.

Ride it, be happy, get better, then upgrade!

L8R