@Rob Rides EMTB
So for the first ride, I took the new 170mm ZEB to a local trail called Stanley Gap. It is probably the most technical climbing in our area with super rocky/rooty/steep sections that turn into a hike-a-bike for most people. Those are of course followed by blazing fast, technical downhills as the most technical of the climbs are an out and back.
So first the climbs. The front end does feel a little lighter but it isn't over powering. I am pretty used to running long forks and a little weight forward and body english makes a big difference. I find that in really technical climbing, that is needed anyway so you really don't notice the difference as much and sometimes it is actually a benefit as it is easier to get the front wheel over roof/rock shelfs. I can see where it would be an issue on steep, smooth climbing where you really want to sit back in the travel and keep the front wheel planted. Where we ride is almost always tech riding so I won't run into that issue very often.
The descents were MUCH more stable. This fork tracks exactly where you put it and does not deviate from that line. It really does remind me of the Totems that I used to run back in the day. The top half of the travel is much plusher and more predictable than the Lyrik as well. The slacker head angle (with the bike in the low position) was great in the really steep tech. Overall, the bike is just more stable and stays where you put it much better. You do get a little bit slower turning in the really tight stuff but that is the tradeoff for slacker angles.
I really think it comes down to what kind of trails you ride and what is available to you. For our big mountain style of riding, the slacker geometry seems to work out perfectly. I found the ability to get the front end of the bike up and over trail obstacles to be a good thing for here given the bike's weight. That might not be the case in other areas. I also took it to a FR/jump trail with my son yesterday and noticed no change in that area. The bike still jumps and drops the same way it did before.
Side note...I think I am going to upgrade the rear shock now. It has trouble keeping up.
Axle to crown difference is 586 vs 571 (15mm)
