crazyotte

I'd like to know the differences in the types of XC forks Before I go about deciding my price range. (Yes, i read the sticky, very helpful, but only piqued my curiosity)

Some people love coils (More robust?)
Some love singe chamber (Lighter?)
And some love dual chamber (Smoother?)

Id just like to fully understand all these before i decide. Recon, Reba, Float, various manitou and marchozzi (i know i spelled that wrong) are all on the watch list, i know the differences, just not what these differences mean.

I'd like it to be light, 80-100 mm travel (I cant figure out what my RST Gila Plus is, by the way...) and the "Motion control" that air forks have is desireable as well.

pablosnazzy

a quick word on forks -

- coil is your most basic. they work quite well, they are usually pretty durable. - fixed coils are for basic riding and not working on your bike, not lots of adjustments.
- dual air is infinitely adjustable and is the lightest fork available. it is usually most expensive, and is more for the weight weenies (i say weight weenie in a good way).
- solo air is light and easier than dual air. it automatically equalizes between upper and lower chambers, making it easier than dual air.
- 2 step air you can change on the fly from long travel to short travel. you probably don't need that.

all that said, if you need a solid dependable fork, i would go with a reba, maybe the float. yeah the recon is also pretty good. all three are good forks and work quite well, very little problems overall. marzocchi used to be super awesome, but they aren't so much anymore. they are trying to make a comeback though. i wouldn't go with a manitou.

hope this helps a bit.

Santaria

Gila was 80-100 if I recall.