I'm buying a 2003 Hollowpoint Expert and have the choice of a Fox Float AVA or paying $50 more and getting a 5th Element Air. Anyone know which shock rides better on this bike? It's going with the Fox Float fork up front.

Thanks,
Jeff

I really didn't like the AVA on this bike. I'm using an AD12 now and am much happier.

IMHO, you really don't need the "benefits" (I'm using that term loosely) of a SPV-type shock on the dw-link, but that seems to be the trend and the 5th Element is getting nods on the HP and made the spec for the '04 bikes.

Someone on hcor cobbled together custom link plates to enable use of a 2.0" Manitou Swinger, which looked like a pretty cool setup with a somewhat lower compression ratio than the stock 3:1, but with a the possibility of a frame clearance issue. I'd be really curious to try that setup as the Swinger gets great marks for SPV smoothness.

I'm buying a 2003 Hollowpoint Expert and have the choice of a Fox Float AVA or paying $50 more and getting a 5th Element Air. Anyone know which shock rides better on this bike? It's going with the Fox Float fork up front.

Having personally spent a good deal of time w/ both shocks on my bike I would recommend the 5th. While the Float AVA is no chump, the 5th offers a broader tuning range and a better spring curve to match the traits of the bike. While the HP doesn't need a 5th to fix suspension problems (like some other designs on the markets) it can really take advantage of the 5th's adjustability to provide a more tuned ride. When you set the 5th up in the 4.5" setting (lower linkage hole), set the IFP at the lowest recommended setting and the main chamber at approx riding weight. This should give you about 1/3 sag. Achieving 1/3 sag is critical ont he Hollowpoint for the best ride!

-ska todd