Marzocchi XC 500 (-94), what to expect?

[count_zero]

Hi!

I have an old marzocchi XC 500 that probably needs service since it leaks oil and is as responsive as a log (it's actually not ridden very much so I suppose it's in good mechanical condition). The idea is to put it on my ss workbike (-95 Cannondale M500) which then will serve as workbike/light trailbike.

But then I wonder, what can I expect from a 20 year old fork performance-wise? How does the xc 500 feel when it works as it's supposed to? Will it be unresponsive with a lot of stiction (as it is now)? Or will it be more on the smooth side?

If the only benefit will be added weight (more training ) I rather keep the pepperoni fork .

Cheers!

 

[jimo746]

If you're used to modern forks then they will feel prehistoric, if you consider that they are 20 year old technology then they're really not too bad at all, being air/oil works in their favour and I find this type of retro suspension fork gives better performance than the elastomer forks.
For riding to work or light trail use they should be fine, you should get a smooth 50mm or so of travel.

 

[count_zero]

Re:

The fork I'm most used to is a 2001 marzocchi bomber z2 which I really like! And while it's more modern, I wouldn't want to call it modern

But the question is, I suppose, does "if you consider that they are 20 year old technology then they're really not too bad at all" still means it will suck no matter what I'll do? I rather go fully rigid than having a stiff anchor (which is supposed to work as some sort of suspension) up front. I'd rather sell it to someone who would treasure it more than I do.

By the way, If I would find a "new" set of seals, would they be any better than my old ones? The "new" seals would be rather old as well I suppose.

 

[Dr-Zocchi]

Re: Re:

Old but in evry good shape, if you handle them with care.
I have some service boxes and can't find any deficiency on it.

The fork I'm most used to is a 2001 marzocchi bomber z2 which I really like! And while it's more modern, I wouldn't want to call it modern

But the question is, I suppose, does "if you consider that they are 20 year old technology then they're really not too bad at all" still means it will suck no matter what I'll do? I rather go fully rigid than having a stiff anchor (which is supposed to work as some sort of suspension) up front. I'd rather sell it to someone who would treasure it more than I do.

By the way, If I would find a "new" set of seals, would they be any better than my old ones? The "new" seals would be rather old as well I suppose.