
( Brand: Marzocchi ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 968-58-045 ), ( Set Includes: Rear Shock ), ( Part Type: Rear Shocks ), ( UPC: 821973470559 )
The **Marzocchi 968-58-045 Bomber CR Rear Shock** is a high-performance, off-road suspension component designed to elevate the handling, comfort, and durability of your mountain bike or hardtail trail rig. Part of Marzocchi s legendary **Bomber CR** line, this rear shock is engineered to deliver an uncompromising blend of stiffness, responsiveness, and long-lasting reliability, making it an ideal choice for aggressive riders who demand precision and control on rough terrain. Built with a **50mm stroke length**, this shock provides ample travel to absorb the most demanding impacts whether you're tackling steep descents, rocky singletracks, or technical jumps while maintaining a firm, progressive feel that translates seamlessly into your pedaling efficiency. The **968** series is renowned for its **high-speed stability**, thanks to Marzocchi s proprietary **CR (Continuous Rebound)** technology, which ensures consistent rebound performance even under extreme loads, reducing lag and improving overall responsiveness. The shock s **aluminum body** is not only lightweight but also robust, housing a **high-pressure, sealed cartridge system** that minimizes air loss and maintains consistent performance over thousands of miles. For riders who prioritize adjustability, the **Bomber CR** features a **remote lever** (sold separately) that allows for quick, precise adjustments to rebound damping, enabling you to fine-tune the shock s feel for different riding conditions whether you prefer a softer, more compliant setup for rough trails or a firmer, more aggressive feel for fast descents. The **spherical bearing** design ensures smooth articulation and longevity, while the **durable rubber seals** and **corrosion-resistant coatings** protect against the elements, making this shock a dependable companion for both daily rides and extreme off-road adventures. Whether you're a competitive enduro racer, a hardtail trail specialist, or a rider who simply refuses to compromise on performance, the **Marzocchi 968-58-045 Bomber CR Rear Shock** stands as a testament to Italian engineering combining cutting-edge technology with timeless craftsmanship to deliver a suspension experience that s as refined as it is relentless.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a Marzocchi 968-58-045 Bomber CR Rear Shock (210/50)**
#### **Pros:**1. **High-Quality Construction** Marzocchi is a well-respected brand in the cycling industry, known for durable and reliable suspension components. The Bomber CR series is designed for cross-country and trail riding, offering a balance between performance and longevity.
2. **Adjustable Rebound Damping** The shock features adjustable rebound damping, allowing riders to fine-tune their suspension response for different terrains and riding styles. This can improve comfort and control, especially on rough trails.
3. **Good Performance on Cross-Country and Light Trail Riding** The 210mm travel (with a 50mm fork) is well-suited for cross-country and lighter trail riding, providing enough suspension to smooth out bumps without being overly heavy or complex.
4. **Lightweight Design** Compared to some heavier aftermarket shocks, the Marzocchi Bomber CR remains relatively lightweight, which is beneficial for climbs and overall bike handling.
5. **Compatibility with Many Bikes** The 968-58-045 model is designed to fit a range of bikes, making it a versatile choice for riders who may not have a specific brand or model in mind.
6. **Decent Warranty** Marzocchi typically offers a solid warranty, which can provide peace of mind regarding long-term reliability.
7. **Affordable for the Quality** While not the cheapest shock on the market, it offers good value for its performance level, especially for riders who don t need extreme travel or advanced features.
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#### **Cons:**1. **Limited Travel for Aggressive Trail Riding** At 210mm of travel, this shock is better suited for cross-country and light trail riding. For aggressive downhill or technical trail riding, a shock with more travel (e.g., 250mm or 300mm) would be more appropriate.
2. **Basic Adjustments Only** While the rebound damping is adjustable, the shock lacks more advanced features like air spring adjustment, sag adjustment, or compression damping adjustments. Riders who prefer fine-tuning their suspension for extreme conditions may find this limiting.
3. **Not as Lightweight as Carbon Options** Some high-end shocks (particularly carbon fiber models) are significantly lighter. The Marzocchi Bomber CR is aluminum, which adds a bit more weight compared to ultra-light alternatives.
4. **Build Quality Variability** Like many mid-range suspension components, the build quality can vary depending on the specific unit. Some riders report minor issues with seals or internal components over time, though this is not universal.
5. **Less Customization Than Premium Brands** Brands like Fox or RockShox offer more extensive customization options, such as air pressure adjustment and more precise damping tweaks. The Marzocchi Bomber CR is more of a "plug-and-ride" solution.
6. **Resale Value** Mid-range shocks like this one may not hold their value as well as premium brands, especially if they require frequent maintenance or adjustments.
7. **Potential for Maintenance Needs** As with any suspension shock, regular maintenance (e.g., checking seals, adjusting sag, cleaning) is required to ensure optimal performance. Neglecting maintenance can lead to premature wear.
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### **Conclusion:**The **Marzocchi 968-58-045 Bomber CR rear shock (210/50)** is a solid choice for **cross-country riders, light trail riders, or those looking for a reliable, no-frills suspension upgrade** without breaking the bank. It offers **good adjustability, durability, and a balance of performance and weight**, making it suitable for riders who prioritize simplicity and functionality over advanced customization.
However, if you plan to ride **aggressive trails, downhill, or require extensive suspension tuning**, you may want to consider a shock with **more travel, air spring adjustment, or premium damping options** (e.g., Fox DHX, RockShox Deluxe, or Suntour XCR). For **budget-conscious riders who don t need extreme performance**, the Marzocchi Bomber CR is a **practical and dependable option**.
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### **Recommendation:**- **Buy it if:** You ride **cross-country, light trail, or gravel**, want a **reliable, affordable shock** with **basic adjustability**, and don t need extreme travel or advanced tuning.
- **Avoid it if:** You ride **aggressive downhill, technical trails, or require heavy-duty suspension**, as you ll likely need a more advanced shock with **more travel, air suspension, or precise damping controls**.
- **Alternative Considerations:**- For **cross-country**, look at **Fox DHX 210** or **RockShox Deluxe 210** for better adjustability.
- For **trail riding**, consider **Suntour XCR or Fox Float 150** for a balance of travel and weight.
- For **budget-friendly options**, **RockShox Recon** or **Marzocchi XCR** (if available) may offer better value in some cases.
Ultimately, the Marzocchi Bomber CR is a **good mid-range choice for riders who don t need the most advanced suspension but still want a quality upgrade**. If your riding demands align with its capabilities, it s a **reliable purchase**. Otherwise, investing in a shock better suited to your discipline may yield better long-term performance.
Marzocchi Bomber CR rear shock 210x50.