MANITOU’S DISTINCTIVE MATTOC is slightly flexy but otherwise an impressively controlled, high value performer that’s now more adjustable, upgradable and reliable than before.
The only change for 2016 is the addition of a sliding piston with spacers that let you adjust volume and therefore progression. There’s also an aftermarket Infinite Rate Tune kit that creates a secondary air spring to control the mid and end stroke and let you run more sensitive start pressures in the main spring.Derived from Manitou’s Dorado DH fork, this is already an impressively smooth and controlled performer right through the bump range. It’s sensitive off the top to stop the tyre scrabbling but has enough mid-stroke damping that you can lean on it hard through berms without it blowing through its travel. It handles big hits OK too, never noticeably choking even though you can feel the reverse arch,34mm stanchion structure flexing under maximum load.
The Expert uses an open-bath damping set-up, not the sealed cartridge of the 975$ Pro, which adds 100g. Rebound and high- and low-speed compression are still adjustable externally, though you need a lot of clicks to make a significant difference to feel. Using the twist lock, hexagon keyed bayonet axle is an acquired skill, which makes the new retrofit bolt-secured axle kit that also saves 40g very appealing.
WEIGHT: 2,010g
TRAVEL: 140, 150, 160mm (tested)
Price 750$
