Anyone riding the Manitou Mezzer Pro?

[Zed. (Justin is short)]

Great thread! I am also a Mezzer fan and have set mine up on a Relay, with Dougal's "french suspension" approach (lower pressure, closed LSC, 1 HSC). Love it so far.

@Zed. - have you considered /tried the pick and mix tune from Shockcraft? I am tempted but also a bit concerned about the headache of installation. Any thoughts welcome.

Oh and bonus question - what do you make of the Mara Pro shock? I like Manitou / Hayes a lot and would be tempted one day to try one.

With air spring pressures in Mezzers I run 2:1 main/neg and Irt, have found it a better air spring than fox38 / rs Zeb and Ohlins rfx38!

As to the p&m, it was on my radar but I’m mostly using dorado forks now hence the rockeater (that I’m currently fitting so no ride reports yet although from what other owners say it should be a good purchase )

Working on the Mezzer mc2 damper is easy enough so fitting the p&m shouldn’t cause issues if you’re mechanically minded and have suitable tools, bleeding was a bit of a fiddle but maybe that was the kit I had
I stripped mine and removed one shim as suggested in the thread on mtbr forums (linked earlier in this thread)

As to Mara dampers?
I first used a base / non pro Mara (1st gen ) on my trek rail after an Ohlins air damper and it was far better (was the Ohlins damaged or just not suitable for the trek?) and have since bought a Mara pro for my Norco (230/65) and my canyon (225/75?) replacing the Norco’s fox dhx2 coil and canyon’s rs coil ultimate dh dampers

Maybe I just prefer airsprings

Also, I’ll be replacing the canyons zeb forks with something from Manitou shortly

 

[jever98]

With air spring pressures in Mezzers I run 2:1 main/neg and Irt, have found it a better air spring than fox38 / rs Zeb and Ohlins rfx38!

As to the p&m, it was on my radar but I’m mostly using dorado forks now hence the rockeater (that I’m currently fitting so no ride reports yet although from what other owners say it should be a good purchase )

Working on the Mezzer mc2 damper is easy enough so fitting the p&m shouldn’t cause issues if you’re mechanically minded and have suitable tools, bleeding was a bit of a fiddle but maybe that was the kit I had
I stripped mine and removed one shim as suggested in the thread on mtbr forums (linked earlier in this thread)

As to Mara dampers?
I first used a base / non pro Mara (1st gen ) on my trek rail after an Ohlins air damper and it was far better (was the Ohlins damaged or just not suitable for the trek?) and have since bought a Mara pro for my Norco (230/65) and my canyon (225/75?) replacing the Norco’s fox dhx2 coil and canyon’s rs coil ultimate dh dampers

View attachment 168481View attachment 168480

Maybe I just prefer airsprings

Also, I’ll be replacing the canyons zeb forks with something from Manitou shortly

Same here, I changed my transition relay from coil to spring. I went with a super deluxe ultimate because they are readily available and I haven't had much with fox. I'm wondering if a mara would offer something above a SDU. Have you happened to have used one?

 

[Zed. (Justin is short)]

Same here, I changed my transition relay from coil to spring. I went with a super deluxe ultimate because they are readily available and I haven't had much with fox. I'm wondering if a mara would offer something above a SDU. Have you happened to have used one?

I have an sdu that was on my np mega, replaced it with a Mara inline - found it had a better adjustment range, run much lower air pressure and rode nicer

Obviously personal taste but they suit my riding style

Lastnight I fitted Shockcraft’s rockeater tune (pistons and shim kit) to the dorado damper, easy work with good instructions so tonight fill & bleed with oils and test ride Friday

The ‘old’ original Manitou compression pistons and shims back into the ‘stock’ stash

 

[jever98]

Sweet! How come you replaced the SDU with an inline rather than a piggyback - wouldn't that have been more "like for like"? I keep being told we need piggybacks to deal with the heat being generated on long downhills :-D. Is the Mara IL that much higher performance that you don't need the piggyback?

 

[Zed. (Justin is short)]

Sweet! How come you replaced the SDU with an inline rather than a piggyback - wouldn't that have been more "like for like"? I keep being told we need piggybacks to deal with the heat being generated on long downhills :-D. Is the Mara IL that much higher performance that you don't need the piggyback?

I ‘found’ the inline cheap on eBay a few years back when they were uncommon so that’s the story behind it

Converted me and now I’ve one on each bike, although the piggyback on the Mara can interfere with some frames (there are 2 lengths with the shorter one on shorter dampers but available as a spare to retrofit. I tried one on my mrs’s s-works kenevo so but it was in the way so not happening - she’s using an Ohlins coil that’s been tuned by Jtech to her and is very happy with it)

 

[jever98]

Looking at your pictures again: it looks like you're now on the piggyback everywhere? Did you find a big difference with the IL? Since you have ridden both the old version with the fixed negative chamber and the new version with the equalizing chamber: would you prioritize the new version?

Thanks for sharing all your experience!

 

[TonTonUB]

Hello,

After briefly riding a manitou mezzer pro, i really wish to have manitou fork and shoc mounted on my next bike.
Even if i have not tried a mara shock yet.
I really wonder how it compares to a float X2.

 

[Zed. (Justin is short)]

Yesterday I swapped the RS Zeb ultimate charger3 (with buttercups) forks on my Canyon Torque:ON for a recently rebuilt Mezzer pro in matching 180mm travel.
When I rebuilt the Mezzer I removed one shim from the compression stack (as suggested across the internet) so I had to start from scratch with damper settings & this took a few tries but I’m guessing a little more fettling will follow

But I might have bought another example of Manitou’s Dorado Pro forks so they could make their way onto the Canyon

 

[TonTonUB]

to add to this usefull thread, i just joined the 'manitou' gang.
I've installed a mara pro (2021) on my amflow, with suggested / default settings, 140 psi (im 176 lbs / 80 kg with helmet etc...)
It basically rides damn well !
But if anyone has input / advice to share, especially about settings and pressure : feel free to share ... please ?
(where i ride, it's 50% trail, 50% enduro, 50% freeride, 50% trializing ... mixed rock ands 'terres noires')

Mezzer pro will follow soon.

Since the 'coil-like' feeling of the mara pro is real (even better than my float X2, by far) i really wonder how good will be the mezzer pro.

 

[Zed. (Justin is short)]

mara pro

good choice

if anyone has input / advice to share, especially about settings and pressure : feel free to share

have you read the service guide?
plenty of info for full rebuild but also has usefull details like how to reset the 'IFP' pressure (worth checking with a new Mara)

https://hayesbicycle.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/article_attachments/360071701094

 

[TonTonUB]

Yes, i've read the guides found on Manitou website.

I should have been more precise !

I'm looking (begging?) for THE secret sauce that peoples uncover over time, with experience, errors, lucky trials, etc ... Pro tips request !
Experience over time is a treasure, and i'm always interested when peoples can share any information that otherwise, i would (maybe) discover after weeks, months, year or even, never.

My PreeEEEeeeciOOOoouss ?

How peoples set HSC LSC rebound, for their own riding style / terrain.

Thank you for sharing

 

[Zed. (Justin is short)]

How peoples set HSC LSC rebound, for their own riding style / terrain.

I've used Manitou's suggested settings then usually opened all (compression & rebound) but maybe thats just my prefered ride?

think I'm using 190psi in both the Norco and Canyon, maybe I'll record the damper settings hen compare one day as it would be interesting to see

mostly Bikepark tech riding (too fat for jumping)

 

[TonTonUB]

I've used Manitou's suggested settings then usually opened all (compression & rebound) but maybe thats just my prefered ride?

think I'm using 190psi in both the Norco and Canyon, maybe I'll record the damper settings hen compare one day as it would be interesting to see

mostly Bikepark tech riding (too fat for jumping)

I started with recommended settings.
Did you open the 3 settings, at max ? Could you share more details, please ?
Very interesting.

On my AMFLOW, i run 140 psi for 170 lbs of weight.
The bike became plush A.F. ! And the 'coil like' effect is trully amazing.

Now, i can't wait to grab a mezzer pro on black friday, to perfect the scheme ...

 

[Zed. (Justin is short)]

Did you open the 3 settings, at max ? Could you share more details, please ?

from

https://hayesbicycle.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/article_attachments/360066638914

rebound and low speed compression are suggested from closed or fully turned clockwise whereas high speed compression is suggested from open (BUT theres only 6 'clicks' so not too hard to find?)

if I remember correctly, I've opened all 3 settings from suggested and have a very smoth suspension but it's still supportive, I do use most of the travel but whats the point of not using it if the rides harsh

 

[TonTonUB]

I also ride from stock settings, and it feel so plush ! Too bad i didn't find a nice 'black friday' mezzer pro .... still searching !

 

[Zed. (Justin is short)]

Manitou (Hayes) US webshop has serious price reductions, shame the eu webshop does NOT

also, eu webshop does NOT list UK as a destination so I buy from elsewhere

 

[slickrock]

Anyone using the Mara Pro Piggyback and can report experience with it? The Gen 1 Mara Pros are discontinued and the last remaining inventory is scant for specific eye-to-eye requirements.

 

[CJG]

Hi All, I can see the Mezzer Pro is only rated up to 160mm for ebike use, has anyone been riding it at 180mm and if so, experienced any issues? TIA

 

[Suns_PSD]

Hi All, I can see the Mezzer Pro is only rated up to 160mm for ebike use, has anyone been riding it at 180mm and if so, experienced any issues? TIA

That's an interesting observation. I run mine at 170mm on my Relay and it's going on my Wild in the next couple of weeks.

 

[TonTonUB]

After a few rides on my amflow with cadcade link, MX wheels, mezzer pro at 170 mm and mara pro PB ... wabagadoowah ? The bike is transfigured in every aspect (much better, ofc). Definetely Manitou addict !

 

[Zed. (Justin is short)]

Hi All, I can see the Mezzer Pro is only rated up to 160mm for ebike use, has anyone been riding it at 180mm and if so, experienced any issues? TIA

I've been running Mezzer Pro (& expert) forks on ebikes @ 170 & 180mm (in trail but mostly park) for a few years, only problem I've had is that I dont rate the other brands offerings

I'm able to compare against Zeb ultimate (with buttercups), Fox38 factory etc. and Ohlins rfx38 - all @ 180mm.
they are all good but Manitou just works for me

 

[jever98]

That's an interesting observation. I run mine at 170mm on my Relay and it's going on my Wild in the next couple of weeks.

Slightly OT: getting a Wild? You don't mind the headset routing? Also, did you tune your Mezzer with the Shockcraft pick-n-mix? (Highly recommended)

 

[jbodnar]

I've been running Mezzer Pro (& expert) forks on ebikes @ 170 & 180mm (in trail but mostly park) for a few years, only problem I've had is that I dont rate the other brands offerings

I'm able to compare against Zeb ultimate (with buttercups), Fox38 factory etc. and Ohlins rfx38 - all @ 180mm.
they are all good but Manitou just works for me

I just installed one on my Pole Vioma…might put it on a Crestline RS 181.2 when I receive it.

 

[Suns_PSD]

Slightly OT: getting a Wild? You don't mind the headset routing? Also, did you tune your Mezzer with the Shockcraft pick-n-mix? (Highly recommended)

To deal with HCR I just ordered an AXS dropper and electronic shifting, two things I swore I didn't want. As a result, I'll only have one cable going into the headset, the rear brake line. And honestly, I think that's actually an improvement as I run Moto style brakes so rear brake routing is always janky for me and it'll look nice and saves weight.

Also, I'm a fairly competent mechanic.

I don't think that the current gen Wild that I'm buying should have had HCR, but the next gen likely should. I don't know if you have seen that new low power e-bike Orbea built with the TQ40 motor? Well, it actually runs a Can Bus communication protocol system and the electronic shifting, house brand electronic dropper, Neo shock & of course the motor is all talking to each other and linked to one battery. This is the future and the frame cable ports will become useless in the near future.

As far as my Mezzer, it has an Avalanche Hybrid conversion. If you are not familiar it uses the Avy damping cartridge and a light coil spring on the damper side while still keeping the stock air spring on the other side. The idea is to split the spring force 50/ 50 between the fork legs for better balance. Additionally, you run less air pressure (about half as much) so the stiction is reduced from the air seals and also you can set spring preload/ ride height/ sag by using spacers on the coil spring without having to alter air spring pressure which also inadvertently changes the actual spring rate.

Thing is, it doesn't work that great as it's too stiff by a fair margin and I preferred my old stock Mezzer. I did a legit 7-9' drop (depends where you land) about 2 weeks ago, landed a bit nose heavy both times because I suck, and still had about 25mm of unused travel. That's as big as I'm ever intending on going and that's with compression turned nearly all the way out and sag at 22% standing. Here is the catch though and why I have not sent the fork back for a revalve or sold it off: My current Relay weighs 44#s, has a 62.9' HTA (measured) and is an XL. My Wild will weigh about 51#s, have a 63.5' HTA & is a L. I'll have more weight on this front end for sure on the Wild so I want to test the fork on the new bike before making any rash set up decisions. Also, the forks get a lot of stiction when the front end is as slack as my Relay is. You can actually place the rear tire up on a curb and compared to being on flat ground, the fork break away force is pretty different.

If the Mezzer doesn't get very close to the magical plush, quick reacting stock Mezzer very quickly or even better yet feels like my buddies Avy hybrid fork that I rode, I'll likely order the Intend 38.

 

[jever98]

To deal with HCR I just ordered an AXS dropper and electronic shifting, two things I swore I didn't want. As a result, I'll only have one cable going into the headset, the rear brake line. And honestly, I think that's actually an improvement as I run Moto style brakes so rear brake routing is always janky for me and it'll look nice and saves weight.

Also, I'm a fairly competent mechanic.

I don't think that the current gen Wild that I'm buying should have had HCR, but the next gen likely should. I don't know if you have seen that new low power e-bike Orbea built with the TQ40 motor? Well, it actually runs a Can Bus communication protocol system and the electronic shifting, house brand electronic dropper, Neo shock & of course the motor is all talking to each other and linked to one battery. This is the future and the frame cable ports will become useless in the near future.

As far as my Mezzer, it has an Avalanche Hybrid conversion. If you are not familiar it uses the Avy damping cartridge and a light coil spring on the damper side while still keeping the stock air spring on the other side. The idea is to split the spring force 50/ 50 between the fork legs for better balance. Additionally, you run less air pressure (about half as much) so the stiction is reduced from the air seals and also you can set spring preload/ ride height/ sag by using spacers on the coil spring without having to alter air spring pressure which also inadvertently changes the actual spring rate.

Thing is, it doesn't work that great as it's too stiff by a fair margin and I preferred my old stock Mezzer. I did a legit 7-9' drop (depends where you land) about 2 weeks ago, landed a bit nose heavy both times because I suck, and still had about 25mm of unused travel. That's as big as I'm ever intending on going. Here is the catch though and why I have not sent the fork back for a revalve or sold it off: My current Relay weighs 44#s, has a 62.9' HTA (measured) and is an XL. My Wild will weigh about 51#s, have a 63.5' HTA & is a L. I'll have more weight on this front end for sure on the Wild so I want to test the fork on the new bike before making any rash set up decisions.

If the Mezzer doesn't get very close to the magical plush, quick reacting stock Mezzer very quickly or even better yet feels like my buddies Avy hybrid fork that I rode, I'll likely order the Intend 38.

The canbus stuff is nice, but I would still never want to deal with HSR on an MTB. It just doesn't make sense.

Why not go back to the stock Mezzer and maybe tune it with a pick-n-mix?

 

[Suns_PSD]

The canbus stuff is nice, but I would still never want to deal with HSR on an MTB. It just doesn't make sense.

Why not go back to the stock Mezzer and maybe tune it with a pick-n-mix?

I get it. To each his own.

The Wild has been one, if not the highest rated full power e-bikes over multiple reviews for a couple of generations now. So that pedigree, combined with a great price, well having to run a rear brake line through a headset, wasn't enough of an issue to overcome the overall excellent bike. The brake line was going to have to be broken anyways to run it through a frame, it's really no different to me, just a bit cleaner looking. The entire CF Wild with a CXR and Kiox display, also cost about $1K less than a new Crestie frame only, which was another very close contender for me.

I'll reuse my high-end parts currently on my Relay and the low-end stock parts I ordered on the Wild will allow me to have my old Relay as a complete bike sold at a price I can live with. It'll only cost me about $3.5K for the new bike upgrade, which I like.

As far as going back to a stock Mezzer, I've been wanting to test a USD fork anyways. Like I said if I cannot get this Mezzer hybrid to be sublime, I'll order the Intend 38.

 

[jever98]

I get it. To each his own.

The Wild has been one, if not the highest rated full power e-bikes over multiple reviews for a couple of generations now. So that pedigree, combined with a great price, well having to run a rear brake line through a headset, wasn't enough of an issue to overcome the overall excellent bike. The entire Wild with a CXR and Kiox display, also cost about $1K less than a new Crestie frame only, which was another very close contender for me.

I'll reuse my high-end parts currently on my Relay and the low-end stock parts I ordered on the Wild will allow me to have my old Relay as a complete bike sold at a price I can live with. It'll only cost me about $3.5K for the bike upgrade, which I like.

As far as going back to a stock Mezzer, I've been wanting to test a USD fork anyways. Like I said if I cannot get this Mezzer hybrid to be sublime, I'll order the Intend 38.

Have you tested the Wild or other full fat, heavier bikes? I'm curious if you'll mind the extra weight, or not.

 

[Suns_PSD]

Have you tested the Wild or other full fat, heavier bikes? I'm curious if you'll mind the extra weight, or not.

I've ridden full fat e-bikes, even rented for a day, but I'll have to get used to it for sure.