Manitou 2005 Dorado DH 20mm

Advantages: Very strong, stiff, versatile
Disadvantages: Heavy, marmite looks

...can be adjusted using an air pump which is not supplied with the fork. The lower legs of the fork are made from one piece magnesium and are disc specific, they accept a 20mm axle. Performance wise these forks do exactly what they were intended to do. They take single big hits in a reasuring and confidence inspiring manner, steering is as accurate as any other singlecrown fork on the market and they remain stiff under heavy breaking. Looks wise they are a dirt brown colour, which in my opinion is not as good looking as the old black version, although it doesn't look too bad on the bike. The fork also performs well on UK downhill courses due to its strength, the fork is also relatively smooth over fast smaller bumps, although the rebound damping could do with being a bit slower, even on the slowest setting. Overall a good reliable fork... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Super strong and light, sealed bearings means it will work forever
Disadvantages: 20mm axle means it wont work on all forks

...Another excellent product from the Hope range. The hub is perfect for all types of riding, its light enough for xc riders and also strong enough for the downhill riders. It runs on sealed cartridge bearings that are easily changeable, instructions can be found on the Hope website. The hub body is made of cnc'd aluminum so its light and still strong. It also has the standard 6-bolt disc mount so its compatible with all brake systems. The 20mm axle means it creates a very stiff wheel and front end of the bike that will take all abuse. It comes in all the standard hope colours so you can easily match it to you colour scheme. A superb hub well worth the money, it will last forever... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Great all-round capabilities
Disadvantages: perhaps master of none?

...I’ve used the Tioga Factory DH's (26’ x 2.3’) for quiet some time now and I've been pretty pleased with the performance in most conditions. Admittedly, perhaps not king of anything but nevertheless a great 'all rounder' at least competent in all conditions as far as I have experienced and I've done a lot of riding in different places and weather conditions. The knobbles are nice and meaty to ensure plenty of traction both on straights and through the corners. The side knobbles also insure cornering stability and if you do push too hard they are nicely predictable as they slide. Relatively hard wearing so long as you get the good versions rather than the cheap grey market ones... Highly recommended for all round hardcore riding...... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful