Are Budget Downhill Forks Worth It? Watch and Find Out!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Unboxing the Zoom Four Goes Forks
- Installing the Forks on the Bike
- Marking the Cut
- Cutting the Steerer Tube
- Reassembling the Stem and Handlebars
- Adjusting to the New Forks
- Getting Used to the Top Out
- Testing the Forks on Small Jumps
- Riding the Zoom Four Goes Forks on a Trail
- Exploring Twisted Oaks Bike Park
- Testing the Forks on Berms and Jumps
- Pushing the Forks to the Limits
- Riding on Technical Terrain
- Taking on Drops and Tables
- Final Thoughts on the Zoom Four Goes Forks
- Overall Performance and Durability
- Introducing the New Pill Grips
- Available Designs and Colors
- Conclusion
Unboxing the Zoom Four Goes Forks
Pros:
- Affordable price at £160
- Easy to order on Amazon
- Suitable for sloped giro bikes
- Triple crown design for added stability
Cons:
- Limited rebound adjustment
- Spongy feel and aggressive top-out
- Heavy weight compared to other forks
When the Zoom Four Goes Forks arrived at my doorstep, I was excited to see if these affordable forks could live up to their reputation. Priced at £160, they were the cheapest forks I could find on Amazon that appeared to be safe for riding. With their triple crown design and promising features, I was eager to mount them on my sloped giro bike and put them to the test.
Installing the Forks on the Bike
To install the Zoom Four Goes Forks, I first had to remove the handlebars, stem, and front wheel. Once the old forks were out, I noticed something interesting at the end of the steerer tube. It seemed like a part had fallen out earlier, but I proceeded with the installation.
After putting everything back together and reassembling the stem and handlebars, I marked the steerer tube to determine where I needed to make the cut. Using the appropriate tools, I carefully cut down the steerer tube. The process went smoothly, thanks to the precision of the cutting tool.
Now that the forks were properly fitted, I noticed that my front wheel didn't match the fork's size. Realizing that I needed a different wheel, I replaced it with a Halo Chaos wheel, which had a 20mm axle. This unexpected change resulted in a 26-inch fork paired with a 27-inch rear wheel, creating an unusual but potentially beneficial setup.
Adjusting to the New Forks
Before hitting the trails, I wanted to get familiar with the Zoom Four Goes Forks and adjust my riding style accordingly. I immediately noticed that the forks had a spongy feel and a rather aggressive top-out. However, I was determined to overcome these challenges and find the best way to ride with them.
I began by testing the forks on small jumps to ensure they wouldn't fail on bigger ones. Despite the aggressive top-out, the forks performed surprisingly well. The sponginess didn't hinder their overall performance, and I was able to maintain control while jumping.
Riding the Zoom Four Goes Forks on a Trail
To truly put the Zoom Four Goes Forks to the test, I headed to Twisted Oaks Bike Park. This park offered a variety of features, including berms, jumps, doubles, and tables. It was the perfect location to assess how well the forks would perform on a trail.
As I ventured into the park, I quickly noticed oil leaking from the forks. Despite this initial setback, I was pleased with how the forks handled the berms and jumps. The flow was incredibly smooth, and the forks provided a stable platform throughout the ride.
Pushing the Forks to the Limits
Eager to see how much the Zoom Four Goes Forks could handle, I decided to explore some more challenging terrain. I rode on technical sections, maneuvered through rocks, and tackled bigger drops and tables. Surprisingly, the forks held up well, and I felt confident in their capabilities.
The weight of the forks, although noticeable, actually aided in improving the bike's front end. This unintentional modification resulted in a more balanced ride, making the bike responsive and enjoyable to ride. I was impressed by how well these affordable forks performed, considering their price point.
Final Thoughts on the Zoom Four Goes Forks
After thoroughly testing the Zoom Four Goes Forks, my overall impression was positive. While they lacked rebound adjustment and had a spongy feel, these forks proved to be reliable and Durable. The aggressive top-out, although initially disconcerting, became something I could adapt to.
Despite being the cheapest forks on the market, the Zoom Four Goes Forks exceeded my expectations. Their performance on trails, especially when tackling jumps and technical sections, was more than satisfactory. These forks are a viable option for riders on a budget who Seek a dependable and functional upgrade.
Introducing the New Pill Grips
In addition to testing the Zoom Four Goes Forks, I also had the opportunity to try out the latest pill grips. These grips come in a variety of colors and designs, adding a touch of style to any bike. I had been using these grips on my jump bike for the past two months and was impressed by their comfort and durability.
The new pill grips will soon be available for purchase, offering riders the chance to upgrade their handlebars with a reliable and stylish option. With different colors and designs to choose from, riders can find a grip that matches their personal preference and adds a personalized touch to their bike.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my experience with the Zoom Four Goes Forks left a positive impression. Despite their affordable price, these forks delivered reliable performance on a variety of trails. While they may not offer the same features as higher-end forks, they are a worthwhile upgrade for riders on a budget.
The spongy feel and aggressive top-out were minor setbacks, but they did not significantly impact overall performance. When paired with suitable components, such as the Halo Chaos wheel, these forks can enhance the riding experience and provide stability on challenging terrain.
Additionally, the introduction of the new pill grips offers riders the opportunity to add style and comfort to their handlebars. With various colors and designs to choose from, riders can customize their bike while enjoying the benefits of a quality grip.
Overall, the Zoom Four Goes Forks and the new pill grips are exciting additions to the mountain biking market. With their affordable price tags and reliable performance, they provide accessible options for riders looking to enhance their riding experience without breaking the bank.