The 55 is an all-new fork for Marzocchi, but that means both good and bad things so far.
The new structure is stiffer than previous 35mm forks from the Italian manufacturer, which is definitely a good thing, but it’s still light enough to be considered an all-day fork if you want a big hitter. The new low-profile QR20 setup is easy and convenient to use, too.
Once we’d abandoned Marzocchi’s recommended pressures (we eventually ended up doubling its advised compression circuit pressure), the 55 rode really well. It’s supple over the small stuff, but has a really nice progressive – almost coil-like – stroke that keeps it naturally controlled and well balanced.
Adding some compression damping through the ‘TST’ micro-adjust dial keeps it tall and stable under braking without losing plush.
The rebound damping floats the Marzocchi fork really well, too, although you need to run less than you initially think to stop it packing down too much on jackhammer descents. It’s definitely a fork that needs a big bike, ridden hard to get the most out of it.
Potential performance is also balanced against the problems that we and other riders have had with early 55s. Hopefully these inconsistencies should be sorted out soon, though, and the 55 will be free to deliver on its obvious potential.
