Manitou 2005 Stance Kingpin Air

Advantages: Tough, reactive, rigid, looks the dogs
Disadvantages: a bit heavy, can be stiff before being worn in

...First glance: At first glance these fork's definetly look very solid, sanctions are very shiny and the lower slider is a matte black which looks like a very thick finish, it is infact very tough to scratch too. The crown is pretty shiny and smudges easily, the finish on this isn't as thick as the slider and with a front brake the cable can rub against it and leave a mark. The steerer tube is quite hefty and thick and is 1 1/8inch which is pretty average really... Both leg's have positive air pressure and coil spring with the air preload being the only thing adjustable here, with no added air inside the fork at first was very stiff and standing on the bike pushing down hard i can barely hit 50% of the 100mm travel (i'm 11 stone) i'm sure with a softer spring you could get a softer ride but after wearing the fork in which took about 20... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

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: Oh so many!!!!
Disadvantages: they are not exactly delicate shoes!!!!!!!

...son suggested Nike Air trainers, saying that Nike had invented a a system where the heel of these shoes had visible bubbles of air to cushion heel strike and though sceptical I limped with him into the Nike outlet shop in Swindon. The idea was just to try a pair on and see if they made a difference. I have to say there was very little choice in the Air Max range at the outlet store, however I tried on a pair in my size just to see if I felt any better..... Wow - it can only be described as a miracle or even a Monty Python moment - the minute they were on my feet I stood up and for the first time in 3 months walked normally the full length of the aisle - my son just stared in amazement as did the shop assistants - my crutches were left leaning against the chair with my old (3 months old) trainers beside them on the floor - and I just... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful