In 1997, the Marzocchi Bomber Z1 took the performance of mountain bike suspension forks to a new level. While the mass-produced competition usually tried to squeeze a few centimetres of travel and the last few grams of weight out of rather slender forks with elastomer buffers, the Italians transferred solid motorbike technology to mountain bikes. This means steel springs instead of rubber, an open oil bath with adjustable damping and thick tubes.
The priorities were crystal clear: At the top of the list was the motorcycle-inspired rich spring/damper behaviour, i.e. function. Then came durability. In third place came low weight, and only if no compromises had to be made on the first two points. The result was a suspension fork for mountain bikes that actually worked really well. And was still affordable.
Today, in 2018, the legendary Bomber fork is back. And Marzocchi wants to remain true to its old principles. The brand now belongs to industry leader Fox, which claims to offer highly functional and high-quality spring/damper elements at affordable prices under its own label.
The Marzocchi Bomber Z1 is particularly interesting for touring, trail and enduro bikers who attach great importance to value for money. The key data: depending on the version, 130 to 180 millimetres of suspension travel, 15 x 110 mm Boost standard, 36 mm stanchions, tapered steerer tube and 27.5 or 29 inch/27.5+.
From the Fox shelf come the tried and tested FIT-Grip-damper cartridge, but here with infinitely variable adjustment range (as in the OEM Fox Rhythm fork) and the Evol-air spring. The immersion tube unit (casting) specially developed for the Marzocchi Bomber Z1 is completely new.
The retail price quoted by the manufacturer is €899; weights are not yet known. The Marzocchi Bomber Z1 will be available from specialist dealers from May 2018.
Sebastian Brust
Editor
