The 55 felt incredibly plush, with a nice ramp up and no noticeable bottom out. However, the pike was more than 2 pounds lighter, and with bottomless tokens felt great. If i could have gotten a 55 at a pike weight i would have jumped on it.

 Have you tried out the 350? Seems like it would be sweet. I believe the highest end one has a titanium coil to keep weight down but still have the coil plushness, etc. Anyways, that's just a thought because it's apparent you aren't apposed to Marzocchi (me neither) so that could be neat to try out. I've heard nothing but good things from the pike though, and its crazy that it can be a full 2 lbs lighter than a 55!