rolliepollie

I just got a new e-bike that comes with a Zoom ZXR fork that seems to have loose bushings. It doesn't clank when normally riding and braking, at least not noticable to me, but when stopped and I do the "front brake, rock fork back and forth" test, the fork rocks a little with some (damped) clank sound. I can even see the lowers rock and move the left fork seal. But it's not like a very loose movement you can just wiggle and feel it. And I'd rather not deal with the warranty and waiting if I can just get a low-mid end Rockshox to replace with instead.

Question is, is it safe to ride? If it matters, this e-bike has the battery and motor on the rear so the front doesn't have too much extra weight, and I'm quite light at 150 lbs. Is it enough to just inspect the uppers for cracks after each ride? I mostly ride on crappy roads with the occasional dirt hiking trail. I was thinking of replacing the fork but given how someone from the company said on another forum this model has been "thoroughly tested...and comparable to a $200 fork" I thought I'd give it a shot first since it does move quite smoothly.

FastJake

Every suspension fork has a little wobble, even when brand new. It's their nature and you can't do anything about it (that I'm aware of.) It sounds like that's what you have going on.

reptilezs

pretty normal for a crap fork

rolliepollie

Ah, guess I was just spoiled by the Fox and Rockshox stuff then. I'll see how this one goes.