Motorcycles equipped with Marzocchi suspensionpage 4

Marzocchi, founded in Bologna in 1949 by Stefano and Guglielmo Marzocchi, is a historic Italian brand specializing in suspensions for two-wheelers. Initially focused on hydraulics, it became a key player thanks to its innovations and involvement in competition.

The 1980s were a golden era: Marzocchi collaborated with Ferrari to develop shock absorbers for Formula 1, achieved success in motocross and the Dakar Rally, and launched its first suspensions for bicycles, opening up a new market. Its products were also used on scooters, further diversifying the company. In the early 2000s, all the major European manufacturers, as well as Honda and Victory, incorporated Marzocchi suspensions into their models, confirming its status as a benchmark.

In 2008, its acquisition by the American multinational Tenneco for $15 million marked a turning point. The economic crisis hit the sector hard, and the brand struggled to maintain its position. While motorcycle production remained in Italy, bike suspension production was relocated to Taiwan. In 2015, Tenneco announced the closure of its suspension business, plunging the brand into uncertainty.

Despite all this, Marzocchi bounced back: the bike division was taken over by Fox Factory, which relaunched production and developed an accessible, high-performance range, while the motorcycle division was acquired in 2016 by the Italian VRM group, enabling the heritage to be preserved and production to continue in Italy.

Today, Marzocchi remains a renowned brand. Its legendary Shiver fork and robust solutions still win over enthusiasts, whether in competition or on the road. With its rich heritage and ability to reinvent itself, Marzocchi continues to symbolize Italian excellence in suspension.