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For 2013, Manitou has two models in the Dorado family called the Dorado Expert and the Dorado Pro.  There are subtle differences between the two but you can learn all of the details inside.

In 2010 Manitou revamped their Dorado downhill suspension fork. It featured a complete overhaul from head to toe and while it may have a similar look to previous Dorado’s the improvements they made were much more than cosmetic. The revised Dorado saw new damping internals, chassis revision,  as well as a new air system that quite impressive.

Dorado history: 2002 Dorado, 2005 Dorado, 2010 Dorado, 2013 Dorado

If you’ve rode a pre-2010 Dorado, you may recognize these. The 2002-2005 Dorados aren’t even in the same ballpark in terms of stiffness or damping quality in comparison to the current Dorado models that are offered.

30mm stanchion (2002) , 32mm stanchion (2005), 36mm stanchions (2010-2013)

After the 2010 carbon Dorado launch, they created an aluminum Dorado that allowed riders to enjoy the Dorado at a lower price point.

2013 Manitou Dorado Expert

For 2013, the Dorado is available in two trims: Expert and Pro. It also is available in a variety of sizes to suit wheelsizes: 26″ , 29″, and 27.5″ coming soon this year.   Manitou will have a presence on the World Cup circuit this year so be sure to see their products on the scene.

2013 Manitou Dorado Pro

We talked with Ed about the difference between the Dorado Pro and Expert as well as what the Dorado has to offer riders in terms of suspension technology that you can watch below. We’ve rode the Dorado for some time and still have been quite impressed by the damping quality it provides.  Internally the Dorado can be modified to reduce its travel as well. At the prices available now to purchase a Dorado, it’s a hard fork not to highly consider.

Video: 2013 Dorado Pro vs Expert and Technical Details:

If you’ve ever been curious as to what makes the Dorado tick inside, here are a bunch of pictures we’ve taken of the internals that make the magic happen. Be sure to watch the video above to learn more about the internals and how they function as a cohesive piece.

TPC+ system disassembled

The TPC+ was reworked when the Dorado got its overhaul and its an impressive engineering piece in the way it addresses and controls suspension.

TPC+ assembled

The hydraulic bottom out circuit is one of our favorite features of the Dorado. It smoothly slows the fork in an impressive fashion when engaged and it doesn’t bottom harshly.

Dorado internals - bottom out circuit and more

Dorado Bottom Out internals - multiple holes to smoothly modulate bottom out support

The TPC+ system they developed provides a stellar ride and controls the fork quite well. The TPC+ and High Speed adjuster give an impressive range of adjustment for riders. Riders get an solid air fork that in our experience can be ridden for quite a bit longer than most forks before needing servicing or noticing performance degradation after a few rides.

Dorado Tuning Tips

Dorado Internals

The Difference: Dorado Pro Vs Dorado Expert

Dorado Expert (left) | Dorado Pro (right)

There are subtle differences between the Expert and the Pro. Both forks feature the exact same internals so damping performance should be the same no matter which fork you choose.

Dorado Pro vs Expert - Different finish and aluminum used during the construction

The subtle differences are hard to see but Manitou has essentially saved on machine time on the Expert by reducing the amount of machining on the upper and lower crowns. In addition to the machining difference, there is also a matte finish as well as a different aluminum specification used to save some money during production.

Dorado Expert - less machining in the upper and lower crown

Dorado Pro - more machining in the upper and lower crowns

With these changes, the Dorado Pro ends up coming in a bit lighter than the Expert. Other than that, the Pro and the Expert are exactly the same.  The Dorado will see additional changes as they move along so stay tuned as they continue to improve the Dorado.  We’ve been happy with the damping quality of the fork during our usage of it.

If you’re looking to pick up a Dorado, Pricepoint has got the Dorado Expert for a mere $999.98 that is a stellar deal.

You can see additional photos in the gallery

If you’re looking to find more details about the Manitou range of products or the Dorado visit: manitoumtb.com

Keep a watch out for the Hayes Bicycle Group Support Truck this year at the Pro GRT races and more