Marzocchi Bomber Z1 [Rider Review]

Our "Rider Review" article series features the honest reviews from verified purchasers of Worldwide Cyclery. They contain the photos, thoughts, feedback & overall review you are looking for.

We've been massive fans of the new suspension Marzocchi has been putting out. Their New Z1 and Z2 bomber forks perform very similar to the top shelf forks but without the same price tag. See what our customer thinks of their new Z1 Bomber! 

Overview

I recently upgraded my Stumpjumper Evo with the 2025 Marzocchi Z1 Bomber 160mm fork, replacing a 2023 Fox 36 Factory Grip 2 and, before that, a 2022 Lyrik Ultimate with the 2.1 Charger damper. While the Z1 Bomber is heavier, similar to the Fox Rhythm series lowers, it has proven to be an exceptional all-around fork. It’s simple, smooth, and aesthetically pleasing.

Versatility and Performance

I ride a variety of terrains, including flow trails, jump trails, steep tech downhills, and bike parks (although I haven’t tested this fork in a bike park yet). The simplicity of this fork allows me to focus on the ride rather than constant adjustments. Unlike the more tunable forks like the Grip 2 or Charger 2.1, which felt like costly status symbols, the Z1 Bomber offers a set-it-and-forget-it experience.

Immediate Setup Satisfaction

Right out of the box, I set my PSI, sag, and rebound according to the provided chart, and it was 95% spot on. After my first run, I made a minor adjustment by adding 2 clicks of faster rebound to prevent packing on fast, consecutive hits. With the compression wide open, I haven’t felt the need to make any further adjustments and have been thoroughly satisfied.

Stiffness and Stability

One noticeable difference with the Z1 Bomber is its increased stiffness, especially on rocky/root-laden sections where turning and weaving through the forest is crucial. The fork feels solid and stable, making these familiar trails feel smoother and more controlled.

Consistent Performance

The Rail 2.0 damper seems to perform well, and I appreciate the near lockout feature for climbs. On multiple nonstop 1k and 2k descents, I haven’t experienced any fade in performance. The fork remains consistent without bottoming out, even on huck-to-flat drops, eliminating the need for volume spacers (though two are included).

Value for Money

Overall, the 2025 Marzocchi Z1 Bomber offers incredible value. Compared to $1k variants with features like Kashima coating or buttercups, this fork delivers excellent performance with $400+ left over for other upgrades.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the market for a new fork that balances simplicity, performance, and value, the Marzocchi Z1 Bomber 160mm is an outstanding choice. Its durability, ease of setup, and consistent performance make it an excellent upgrade for any rider looking to enhance their biking experience without breaking the bank.