Laboratory and practical test suspension forks 2023: 17 forks from cross country to trail
Peter Nilges
· 26.08.2023
We tested these 17 suspension forks:
Trail category
Category Down Country/Marathon
Category Cross Country/Marathon
Click to go to the individual rating
All topics in this test:
Overview suspension fork test
The time of the musketeers seems to be over for good - also when it comes to suspension forks. If you look at the current variety of models, the maxim "one for all" no longer applies. Whereas just a few years ago, the range from 80 to 150 millimetres of travel was covered with one and the same casting and 32 mm stanchions, today there are completely new forks in ten millimetre increments. Every niche, no matter how small, is filled in order to fulfil every need or to awaken those that do not yet exist.
A model for every spring travel
In the 100 to 170 millimetre travel range alone, at least the major suspension fork manufacturers such as Fox and Rockshox have five different top models with their own casting in their range. For the 100 millimetre range there is the Fox 32 Stepcast and the Rockshox SID SL, for travel up to 120 millimetres there is the Fox 34 Stepcast and Rockshox SID. This is followed by the Fox 34 and Rockshox Pike with 140 millimetres, while the Fox 36 and Rockshox Lyrik serve the range up to 160 millimetres. At the top end, the Fox 38 and Rockshox ZEB complete the range of single crown forks. The other manufacturers are also following the trend and differentiating more and more. The overlap of the spring travel is thus kept as small as possible and the respective fork is customised as much as possible to the intended area of use
In addition, with the introduction of the thick 38 mm stanchions, everything has been downgraded a category. Until recently, the Fox 36 and the Rockshox Lyrik symbolised hard enduro use, but now they are poaching in the all-mountain segment with reduced suspension travel. With this development, manufacturers are of course also responding to the increased demands and loads that a suspension fork is confronted with in modern MTBs or E-MTBs.
Suspension forks are getting stiffer and heavier
The bikes are becoming more downhill-orientated and more powerful across the board and are pushing the limits of what is possible to ride. And even without the additional weight of the battery and motor, the average German now weighs almost 90 kilos. It is therefore hardly surprising that fork manufacturers are responding with stiffer and generally heavier forks. The sense of specialisation is therefore self-explanatory. In the test letters, we have therefore also specified the maximum system weight (bike + rider) for which the respective suspension fork is approved.
In the first part of our suspension fork test, we cover the range from cross-country to trail with five 100-millimetre forks, four 120-millimetre forks and eight 130-millimetre forks. The large field of all-mountain and enduro forks will follow soon.
Conclusion from Peter Nilges, Test Manager BIKE
In general, it's noticeable that Fox doesn't let anyone take the butter off its bread in any category and delivers the best performance across the board. Manitou is also surprisingly strong and has made an impressive return to the premium segment. However, exotic models such as Cannondale's Lefty or an EXT are also convincing in their respective categories.
The suspension fork in the test at a glance
How BIKE tests
The suspension fork test in BIKE consists of a laboratory and a practical section. In our own test laboratory in Munich, all measurement data is determined on special test benches. Depending on the suspension travel category, the riding tests are carried out on appropriate routes with at least three experienced testers.
The laboratory test
Both the weight as well as the stiffness are included in the final judgement at 15 percent each. Even though some suspension forks were supplied with a remote for the test, we always state the weight without the remote for better comparability. To assess how stiff and precise a suspension fork is, we take two different measurements. In the picture above, the torsional stiffness is determined. To do this, the suspension fork fixed to the dropouts is twisted using a lever fixed to the steerer tube. The measurement result in Nm/° provides information about the steering precision. The second stiffness measurement simulates how much the fork twists when braking. The so-called brake stiffness is also included in the final judgement. Both values can be found in the respective test reports.
In addition to weight and stiffness, we determine the actual spring travel and draw the spring characteristic curve on. The suspension travel deviates from the manufacturer's specification by up to ten millimetres in some cases. The spring characteristic curve, which provides an indication of the characteristics of a suspension fork, is also shown in the test report. The installation length is determined in the laboratory. This is an important indication of whether the fork will fit your frame.
The practical test
70 per cent of the final verdict is based on practical impressions. The response behaviour accounts for 15 percent into the judgement. How sensitively does the suspension fork react to bumps and how well does it keep shocks away from the rider? With a total of 45 per cent, the downhill and uphill performance came out on top. come into play. Depending on the category, the weighting differs in favour of downhill or uphill. In the downhill category, we assess the overall suspension and damping behaviour, which is reflected in control, safety and comfort. The uphill evaluation includes points such as lockout or platform function and, if available, the ergonomics of the remote lever. We also assess how strongly the suspension fork reacts to pedalling in open mode. Last but not least, we also assess the handling with ten per cent each. How easy is the setup? Are all adjustment options clearly labelled? Is the air pressure/damper recommendation correct? Do you need tools to remove the front wheel?
130 millimetre suspension travel: Trail category
With every centimetre of travel, the number of adjustment options also increases. In order to control the greater suspension travel compared to the 100 and 120 category, almost all top-of-the-range trail forks have adjustable high and low-speed compression damping. Only the inexpensive Marzocchi Bomber Z2 gets by with simple compression damping. In addition, the EXT and the Manitou have a second air chamber instead of volume spacers/tokens. The second air chamber can be used to influence the progression of the fork and improve mid-stroke support. However, the correct sequence for filling the chambers must be observed during handling. The two American manufacturers Cane Creek and DVO also go their own way, making setup more difficult. With the Helm, for example, you have to manually equalise the pressure between the positive and negative chambers. With the DVO, the steel negative spring can also be preloaded for better response behaviour. Overall, the Fox 34 delivers the best performance, closely followed by the Manitou Mattoc and the EXT, which is also very downhill capable but heavy in this class.
We noticed this in the details:
Cane Creek Helmet MKII
Manufacturer information
- Price: 1299 Euro
- Adjustment options: Progression, rebound, low and high-speed compression damping
- Lockout / platform: no / no
- Max. Ø disc / weight limit: 203 mm / no
- Available shafts / standpipe Ø: Taper / 35 mm
- Available suspension travel: 130-160 mm
- Tyres: 29/27.5 inch
Measured values¹
- Weight: 2099 grammes
- Suspension travel¹/ factory specification: 129 mm / 130 mm
- Installation length: 540 mm
- Torsional rigidity: 31.6 Nm/°
- Brake rigidity: 234.8 Nm/°
- Sensitivity (15 %): 10 out of 12 points
- Downhill (40 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Handling (10 %): 6 out of 12 points
- Stiffness (15 %): 11 out of 12 points
- Weight (15 %): 7 out of 12 points
- Uphill (5 %): 11 out of 12 points
BIKE judgement²: very good
The extremely stiff Cane Creek helmet has extensive adjustment options and requires know-how during setup, as the negative chamber does not fill automatically. Once the hurdles have been overcome, the Cane Creek responds well to fine adjustments, but has a tight setup with a lot of back pressure and difficult-to-use suspension travel.
DVO Sapphire D1
Manufacturer information
- Price: 899 Euro
- Adjustment options: Progression, rebound, low and high-speed compression, sensitivity
- Lockout / platform: no / no
- Max. Ø disc / weight limit: 203 mm / no
- Available shafts / standpipe Ø: Taper / 34 mm
- Available suspension travel: 120-140 mm
- Tyres: 29 inch
Measured values¹
- Weight: 2014 gram
- Suspension travel¹ / factory specification: 140 mm / 130 mm
- Installation length: 540 mm
- Torsional rigidity: 21.6 Nm/°
- Brake rigidity: 203.8 Nm/°
- Sensitivity (15 %): 11 out of 12 points
- Downhill (40 %): 11 out of 12 points
- Handling (10 %): 6 out of 12 points
- Stiffness (15 %): 8 out of 12 points
- Weight (15 %): 8 out of 12 points
- Uphill (5 %): 10 out of 12 points
BIKE judgement²: very good
The DVO Sapphire requires an elaborate setup and offers speed-dependent damping as well as a setting for the response behaviour (OTT). This means that the DVO works sensitively and generates good traction. Compared to the top forks, however, there is a little more feedback on the handlebars.
EXT Era V2
Manufacturer information
- Price: 1760 Euro
- Adjustment options: Progression, rebound, low and high-speed compression damping
- Lockout / platform: no / no
- Max. Ø disc / weight limit: 203 mm / no
- Available shafts / standpipe Ø: Taper / 36 mm
- Available suspension travel: 130-170 mm
- Tyres: 29 inch
Measured values¹
- Weight: 2356 grammes
- Suspension travel¹ / factory specification: 130 mm / 130 mm
- Installation length: 525 mm
- Torsional rigidity: 28.7 Nm/°
- Brake rigidity: 215 Nm/°
- Sensitivity (15 %): 12 out of 12 points
- Downhill (40 %): 12 out of 12 points
- Handling (10 %): 6 out of 12 points
- Stiffness (15 %): 10 out of 12 points
- Weight (15 %): 6 out of 12 points
- Uphill (5 %): 11 out of 12 points
BIKE verdict²: Super
With its 36 mm stanchions, the Era V2 from Italian manufacturer EXT weighs a lot, but can be converted to 170 millimetres. The setup with two air chambers (additional progression chamber) is complex. In return, the fork impresses with its sensitivity, traction and excellent absorption capacity with good support.
Fox 34 Factory Grip2 - Test winner in the Trail category
Manufacturer information
- Price: 1389 Euro
- Adjustment options: Progression, high and low speed cable/compression stage
- Lockout / platform: no / no
- Max. Ø disc / weight limit: 203 mm / 121 kg
- Available shafts / standpipe Ø: Taper / 34 mm
- Available suspension travel: 130-140 mm
- Tyres: 29 inch
Measured values¹
- Weight: 1889 grammes
- Suspension travel¹ / factory specification: 132 mm / 130 mm
- Installation length: 550 mm
- Torsional rigidity: 23.4 Nm/°
- Brake rigidity: 195.1 Nm/°
- Sensitivity (15 %): 12 out of 12 points
- Downhill (40 %): 12 out of 12 points
- Handling (10 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Stiffness (15 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Weight (15 %): 8 out of 12 points
- Uphill (5 %): 9 out of 12 points
BIKE verdict²: Super
Weighing less than 1900 grams, the 34 mm Fox is one of the lightest trail forks and leaves nothing to be desired in terms of ride quality. The sensitivity is impeccable, and the high damping control gives the fork a lot of confidence and comfort downhill. Compared to the competition, the brake stiffness is a little low.
Manitou Mattoc Pro
Manufacturer information
- Price: 1260 Euro
- Adjustment options: Progression, rebound, low and high-speed compression damping
- Lockout / platform: no / no
- Max. Ø disc / weight limit: n/a Specified / 150 kg
- Available shafts / standpipe Ø: Taper / 34 mm
- Available suspension travel: 110-150 mm
- Tyres: 29 / 27.5 inch
Measured values¹
- Weight: 1775 grammes
- Suspension travel¹ / factory specification: 138 mm / 130 mm
- Installation length: 550 mm
- Torsional rigidity: 28.7 Nm/°
- Brake rigidity: 202.1 Nm/°
- Sensitivity (15 %): 11 out of 12 points
- Downhill (40 %): 11 out of 12 points
- Handling (10 %): 8 out of 12 points
- Stiffness (15 %): 10 out of 12 points
- Weight (15 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Uphill (5 %): 9 out of 12 points
BIKE verdict²: Super
The new Manitou Mattoc works sensitively, even when climbing with little load on the handlebars. Despite the low weight, the stiffness is high. Downhill, the Manitou has good traction, but always offers sufficient support. Two air chambers and complex damping complicate the setup. The brake hose routing is not optimal.
Marzocchi Bomber Z2 - BIKE Tip: Value for money
Manufacturer information
- Price: 719 Euro
- Adjustment options: Progression, rebound, compression
- Lockout / platform: yes / no
- Max. Ø disc / weight limit: 203 mm / n/a Specification
- Available shafts / standpipe Ø: Taper / 34 mm
- Available suspension travel: 100-140 mm
- Tyres: 29/27.5 inch
Measured values¹
- Weight: 2042 grammes
- Suspension travel¹ / factory specification: 134 mm / 130 mm
- Installation length: 548 mm
- Torsional rigidity: 22.9 Nm/°
- Brake rigidity: 217.4 Nm/°
- Sensitivity (15 %): 10 out of 12 points
- Downhill (40 %): 10 out of 12 points
- Handling (10 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Stiffness (15 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Weight (15 %): 8 out of 12 points
- Uphill (5 %): 11 out of 12 points
BIKE judgement²: Very good
Sensitive and comfortable, the Marzocchi Bomber Z2 smooths out the trails and performs at a very decent level. Only the top forks keep even more shocks away from the rider. Downhill, it hangs a little lower in its travel, even if the progression is sufficient to avoid bottoming out. The only one in the 130 groupset with lockout.
Rockshox Pike Ultimate
Manufacturer information
- Price: 1139 Euro
- Adjustment options: Progression, rebound, low and high-speed compression damping
- Lockout / platform: no / no
- Max. Ø disc / weight limit: 220 mm / no
- Available shafts / standpipe Ø: Taper / 35 mm
- Available suspension travel: 120, 130, 140 mm (Boost)
- Tyres: 29 inch
Measured values¹
- Weight: 1898 grammes
- Suspension travel¹ / factory specification: 132 mm / 130 mm
- Installation length: 540 mm
- Torsional rigidity: 30.0 Nm/°
- Brake rigidity: 221.2 Nm/°
- Sensitivity (15 %): 10 out of 12 points
- Downhill (40 %): 10 out of 12 points
- Handling (10 %): 8 out of 12 points
- Stiffness (15 %): 10 out of 12 points
- Weight (15 %): 8 out of 12 points
- Uphill (5 %): 9 out of 12 points
BIKE judgement²: Very good
Thanks to its 35 mm stanchions, the Rockshox Pike combines low weight and high stiffness. It works well uphill with a light load, but is less sensitive than Fox or EXT. With a heavier load, the Rockshox works well and releases a lot of travel. However, individual power peaks still reach the rider.
X-Fusion Slide
Manufacturer information
- Price: 703 Euro
- Adjustment options: Progression, rebound, low and high-speed compression damping
- Lockout / platform: no / no
- Max. Ø disc / weight limit: 203 mm / no
- Available shafts / standpipe Ø: Taper / 34 mm
- Available suspension travel: 100-140 mm
- Tyres: 29 inch
Measured values¹
- Weight: 2017 gram
- Suspension travel¹ / factory specification: 130 mm / 130 mm
- Installation length: 538 mm
- Torsional rigidity: 29.9 Nm/°
- Brake rigidity: 205.3 Nm/°
- Sensitivity (15 %): 7 out of 12 points
- Downhill (40 %): 7 out of 12 points
- Handling (10 %): 10 out of 12 points
- Stiffness (15 %): 10 out of 12 points
- Weight (15 %): 8 out of 12 points
- Uphill (5 %): 8 out of 12 points
BIKE judgement²: Good
Together with the Marzocchi, the X-Fusion Slide is the cheapest fork in the test. It reacts a little stubbornly to fine adjustments. You can feel that a certain amount of breakaway force always has to be overcome. This makes for an undefined ride feel, which limits control. Too many rebound clicks (33) complicate the setup.
¹All measured values were determined by BIKE. | ²BIKE test rating: super, very good, good, satisfactory, with weaknesses.
120 millimetres of suspension travel: Down Country/Marathon category
Not only the so-called down-country bikes, but also more and more cross-country and marathon fullys are using the more potent 120 millimetre suspension forks. Pioneer Scott, and therefore also record-breaking racer Nino Schurter, has already completely removed the 100 mm suspension from its fully range. The advantages compared to the 100cc class are obvious and were very impressive in the practical test: with 20 millimetres more at the front, descents can simply be mastered more confidently, more safely and with less fatigue. In some cases, the weight differences between 100 and 120 millimetres are also quite small. While there are only 55 grams between a 32 SC and a 34 SC for Fox, the two SID forks are separated by 162 grams. On the other hand, the 120 mm forks benefit from a higher stiffness, which not only heavier but also fast downhill riders will appreciate.
In our test field, the Fox 34 Stepcast and the Lefty Ocho, which is quite expensive at € 1750, stand out with the highest sensitivity and best downhill performance. The latest version of the SID Ultimate scores with its high stiffness and its new three-stage compression damping.
We noticed this in the details:
Fox 34 SC Factory - test winner in the DC/Marathon category
Manufacturer information
- Price: 1359 Euro
- Adjustment options: Progression, rebound, compression
- Lockout / platform: yes / yes
- Max. Ø disc / weight limit: 180 mm / 121 kg
- Available shafts / standpipe Ø: Taper / 34 mm
- Available suspension travel: 100-120 mm
- Tyres: 29 inch
Measured values¹
- Weight: 1513 grammes
- Suspension travel¹ / factory specification: 122 mm /120 mm
- Installation length: 530 mm
- Torsional rigidity: 16.5 Nm/°
- Brake rigidity: 180.5 Nm/°
- Sensitivity (15 %): 12 out of 12 points
- Downhill (40 %): 12 out of 12 points
- Handling (10 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Stiffness (15 %): 7 out of 12 points
- Weight (15 %): 10 out of 12 points
- Uphill (5 %): 11 out of 12 points
BIKE verdict²: Super
At just 1513 grams, the Fox 34 Stepcast leads the field of 120 mm forks. However, there are compromises in terms of stiffness. On the plus side, the lightweight Fox offers excellent sensitivity, which pays off in the best traction and high comfort. Downhill, there are always reserves available, which gives the Fox the test victory.
Lefty Ocho 120 Carbon
Manufacturer information
- Price: 1750 Euro
- Adjustment options: Progression, rebound, compression
- Lockout / platform: yes / yes
- Max. Ø disc / weight limit: 180 mm / n/a Specification
- Available shafts / standpipe Ø: Taper / 32 mm
- Available suspension travel: 120 mm
- Tyres: 29 inch
Measured values¹
- Weight: 1580 grammes
- Suspension travel¹ / factory specification: 118 mm / 120 mm
- Installation length: 530 mm
- Torsional rigidity: 16.9 Nm/°
- Brake rigidity: 202.3 Nm/°
- Sensitivity (15 %): 11 out of 12 points
- Downhill (40 %): 11 out of 12 points
- Handling (10 %): 8 out of 12 points
- Stiffness (15 %): 8 out of 12 points
- Weight (15 %): 10 out of 12 points
- Uphill (5 %): 11 out of 12 points
BIKE verdict²: Super
The expensive 120cc Lefty runs just as smoothly as the shorter 100cc version and spoils you with plenty of comfort. Only the Fox fork is slightly more sensitive on the climbs. Downhill, it convinces across the board and digests fast and big hits. The asymmetrical design makes it a little susceptible to torsion.
Rockshox SID Ultimate 3P
Manufacturer information
- Price: 1199 Euro
- Adjustment options: Progression, rebound
- Lockout / platform: yes / yes
- Max. Ø disc / weight limit: 220 mm / no
- Available shafts / standpipe Ø: Taper / 35 mm
- Available suspension travel: 100, 110, 120 mm
- Tyres: 29 inch
Measured values¹
- Weight: 1535 grammes
- Suspension travel¹ / factory specification: 122 mm /120 mm
- Installation length: 530 mm
- Torsional rigidity: 27.0 Nm/°
- Brake rigidity: 198.0 Nm/°
- Sensitivity (15 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Downhill (40 %): 8 out of 12 points
- Handling (10 %): 10 out of 12 points
- Stiffness (15 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Weight (15 %): 10 out of 12 points
- Uphill (5 %): 12 out of 12 points
BIKE judgement²: Very good
Thanks to the thick 35 mm stanchions, the new Rockshox SID Ultimate combines low weight with very good torsional rigidity. Uphill with little load on the front wheel, we would have liked a more sensitive response. Downhill traction and comfort could also be better. The SID has a firm setup. Now with three-stage compression damping.
X-Fusion RC29 32
Manufacturer information
- No price: only original equipment manufacturer
- Adjustment options: Progression, rebound, compression
- Lockout / platform: yes / no
- Max. Ø disc / weight limit: 180 mm / no
- Available shafts / standpipe Ø: Taper / 32 mm
- Available suspension travel: 80-130 mm
- Tyres: 29 inch
Measured values¹
- Weight: 1920 grammes
- Suspension travel¹ / factory specification: 121 mm / 120 mm
- Installation length: 527 mm
- Torsional rigidity: 25.8 Nm/°
- Brake rigidity: 186.9 Nm/°
- Sensitivity (15 %): 8 out of 12 points
- Downhill (40 %): 6 out of 12 points
- Handling (10 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Stiffness (15 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Weight (15 %): 8 out of 12 points
- Uphill (5 %): 10 out of 12 points
BIKE judgement²: Good
At 1920 grams, the X-Fusion RC 29 weighs the most in the comparison, but feels very stiff and steering-precise. The fork is only moderately responsive to fine adjustments and also reacts to big hits in a rather wooden and generally uncomfortable manner. This is at the expense of traction and comfort. Rebound and compression adjustment work without noticeable clicks.
¹All measured values were determined by BIKE. | ²BIKE test rating: super, very good, good, satisfactory, with weaknesses.
100 millimetre suspension travel: Cross Country/Marathon category
In the 100-millimetre class, weight and maximum control on the climbs are what count in addition to successful suspension performance downhill. Even though short-travel forks are being used less and less on full-suspension bikes, they remain the first choice for cross-country hardtails. At just 1373 grams, the brand new SID SL Ultimate is at the top of the weight rankings. Its closest rival, the Fox 32 Stepcast, already has 85 grams more on its ribs. The lightweight SID is also impressive in terms of stiffness. With the Twistloc, the Rockshox also has a remote lever that creates space on the handlebars, even if a remote for the dropper post is already clamped on the left under the handlebars. On the downhill, however, there is no way around the Fox, even if the Lefty Ocho and the Manitou, which has very good travel, perform at almost the same level and also score well. At 979 euros, the DT Swiss F232 One is the only fork in this class under 1000 euros and, like the Rockshox, has a three-stage compression unit.
We noticed this in the details:
DT Swiss F232 One
Manufacturer information
- Price: 979,90 Euro
- Adjustment options: Progression, rebound, compression
- Lockout / platform: yes / yes
- Max. Ø disc / weight limit: 203 mm / 130 kg
- Available shafts / standpipe Ø: Taper / 32 mm
- Available suspension travel: 100, 110, 120 mm
- Tyres: 29 inch
Measured values¹
- Weight: 1581 grammes
- Suspension travel¹ / factory specification: 105 mm / 100 mm
- Installation length: 510 mm
- Torsional rigidity: 24.2 Nm/°
- Brake rigidity: 197 Nm/°
- Sensitivity (15 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Downhill (40 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Handling (10 %): 8 out of 12 points
- Stiffness (15 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Weight (15 %): 10 out of 12 points
- Uphill (5 %): 10 out of 12 points
BIKE verdict²: Very good
The DT Swiss F232 One has a firm character and is not quite as sensitive on climbs as the best forks in the test field. However, as soon as more load comes into play on the flat or downhill, it works reliably and keeps big hits away from the rider. The grip on small or fast bumps could be better.
Fox SC 32 Factory FIT4 - Test winner CC/Marathon category
Manufacturer information
- Price: 1259 Euro
- Adjustment options: Progression, rebound, compression
- Lockout / platform: yes / yes
- Max. Ø disc / weight limit: 203 mm / 121 kg
- Available shafts / standpipe Ø: Taper / 32 mm
- Available suspension travel: 100 mm
Measured values¹
- Weight: 1458 grammes
- Suspension travel¹ / factory specification: 101 mm / 100 mm
- Installation length: 498 mm
- Torsional rigidity: 13.6 Nm/°
- Brake rigidity: 178.8 Nm/°
- Sensitivity (15 %): 12 out of 12 points
- Downhill (40 %): 12 out of 12 points
- Handling (10 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Stiffness (15 %): 6 out of 12 points
- Weight (15 %): 11 out of 12 points
- Uphill (5 %): 9 out of 12 points
BIKE verdict²: Super
The slim and lightweight Fox 32 Stepcast (SC) impresses with its extremely sensitive response, even when climbing with little load on the handlebars. The Fox also scores points downhill with first-class traction and very good damping control. Heavier riders might be bothered by the low stiffness. The 34 SC, which weighs just over 50 grams, would then be the better choice.
Lefty Ocho 100 Carbon
Manufacturer information
- Price: 1599 Euro
- Adjustment options: Progression, rebound, compression
- Lockout / platform: yes / yes
- Max. Ø disc / weight limit: 180 mm / n/a Spec.
- Available shafts / standpipe Ø: Taper / 32 mm
- Available suspension travel: 100 mm
- Tyres: 29 inch
Measured values¹
- Weight: 1567 grammes
- Suspension travel¹ / factory specification: 102 mm / 100 mm
- Installation length: 515 mm
- Torsional rigidity: 15.2 Nm/°
- Brake rigidity: 178.6 Nm/°
- Sensitivity (15 %): 12 out of 12 points
- Downhill (40 %): 11 out of 12 points
- Handling (10 %): 7 out of 12 points
- Stiffness (15 %): 7 out of 12 points
- Weight (15 %): 10 out of 12 points
- Uphill (5 %): 10 out of 12 points
BIKE verdict²: Super
In terms of sensitivity, the expensive Lefty Ocho 100 is on a par with the Fox and readily absorbs even the smallest pebbles. Downhill, however, the asymmetrical fork is very linear and could do with a little more support in the middle section. Just like the Fox, the Lefty is not particularly torsionally stiff.
Manitou R7
Manufacturer information
- Price: 1030 grammes
- Adjustment options: Progression, rebound, low/high-speed compression damping
- Lockout / platform: yes / yes
- Max. Ø disc / weight limit: 203 mm / no
- Available shafts / standpipe Ø: Taper / 32 mm
- Available suspension travel: 80-120 mm
Measured values¹
- Weight: 1685 grammes
- Suspension travel¹ / factory specification: 95 mm / 100 mm
- Installation length: 500 mm
- Torsional rigidity: 29.8 Nm/°
- Brake rigidity: 193.6 Nm/°
- Sensitivity (15 %): 11 out of 12 points
- Downhill (40 %): 11 out of 12 points
- Handling (10 %): 8 out of 12 points
- Stiffness (15 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Weight (15 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Uphill (5 %): 9 out of 12 points
BIKE verdict²: Super
At 1685 grams, the Manitou R7 Pro is the heaviest CC fork in the comparison, but can be converted to up to 120 millimetres of travel and delivers the best steering precision. In the first third, the R7 works very sensitively and generates a lot of traction. There is good progression at the rear, which can also be adjusted internally.
Rockshox SID SL Ultimate 3
Manufacturer information
- Price: 1079 Euro
- Adjustment options: Progression, rebound, compression
- Lockout / platform: yes / yes
- Max. Ø disc / weight limit: 200 mm / no
- Available shafts / standpipe Ø: Taper / 32 mm
- Available suspension travel: 100, 110 mm
- Tyres: 29 inch
Measured values¹
- Weight: 1373 grammes
- Suspension travel¹ / factory specification: 98 mm / 100 mm
- Installation length: 507 mm
- Torsional rigidity: 24.7 Nm/°
- Brake rigidity: 181.9 Nm/°
- Sensitivity (15 %): 8 out of 12 points
- Downhill (40 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Handling (10 %): 9 out of 12 points
- Stiffness (15 %): 8 out of 12 points
- Weight (15 %): 11 out of 12 points
- Uphill (5 %): 12 out of 12 points
BIKE verdict²: Very good
The latest version of the Rockshox SID SL can also build on the successful key data of its predecessor. Only 1373 grams combined with good stiffness should please racers. Uphill, with little load on the fork, the SID responds more firmly than the competition. Downhill, it releases a lot of travel even with medium bumps.
¹All measured values were determined by BIKE. | ²BIKE test rating: super, very good, good, satisfactory, with weaknesses.
