MTB suspension forks in test: DVO, Fox, Rockshox - forks for enduro & all-mountain bikes 2025
Max Fuchs
· 06.09.2024
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Rockshox Lyrik and Fox 36 - the battle for the title of best suspension fork for all-mountain bikes enters the next round. We find out who will win the duel in model year 2025. In the enduro segment, the two top dogs Fox and Rockshox have new competition from DVO: The Onyx D1 38 attacks the 29er forks with 170 millimetres of travel.
Fox 36 vs Rockshox Lyrik: 160 mm - MTB forks for all-mountain bikes in the test
The two top dogs Rockshox Lyrik and Fox 36 have always been in a thrilling race for the title of best all-mountain fork. We find out who will win the duel in model year 2025.
Fox 36 Factory
On the settings side, the 36 meets with new Grip-X cartridge The compression stage differentiates between high and low speed, while the rebound stage can only be adjusted using a rotary knob. The two candidates are also neck-and-neck in the laboratory.
It's different in practice. If you turn the the Fox 36 When you turn the high-speed compression knob clockwise to a defined click, the entire compression stage closes. This puts the fork in platform mode, which effectively prevents spring movement. All testers describe the response behaviour as "first-class" - just like that of the Lyrik.
Nevertheless, the comparison is in favour of Fox. Although the 36 offers a little less comfort, it is more stable in its travel on descents, making it more predictable and easier to control when riding harder.
Fox 36 Factory - Data, values & BIKE verdict
Rockshox Lyrik Ultimate
More control, less friction and more compression damping without sacrificing response behaviour. The Charger 3.1 damping cartridge of the Rockshox Lyrik of the 2025 vintage is designed to tackle precisely these problems. Our test shows: Mission almost accomplished!
The 2025 Lyrik irons extremely smoothly over root carpets and stone fields. The fork filters out even the finest bumps and generates top traction. There is no trace of internal friction in the new model year. Compared to the sportier Fox 36, the Lyrik offers better comfort. This is particularly noticeable on long descents. Because here the hands tire noticeably later.
However, sporty riders will miss some counterpressure and control in the mid-stroke. Despite the almost closed compression stage, the Rockshox releases the entire travel too quickly for our taste. Handling: Top!
Rockshox Lyrik Ultimate - Data, values & BIKE verdict
DVO vs Fox vs Rockshox - Test of Enduro MTB forks with 170 mm
Rockshox ZEB, Fox 38 and DVO Onyx D1 38 - a shootout of the 2025 models should clarify whether the industry giants Fox and Rockshox still rule the enduro segment.
DVO Onyx D1 38 SL
Compared to Fox, the DVO almost seems like a bargain. Nevertheless, the Onyx is breathing down its competitors' necks. In terms of the controls, setup is just as straightforward as with the ZEB. However, you won't find an air pressure recommendation printed on the chassis.
In practice, the DVO combines the strengths of its two competitors to a certain extent, but does not push the characteristics to perfection. The Onyx delivers in terms of responsiveness and at the same time creates a good mix of comfort and support. However, there is still some room for improvement to knock the market leader off its throne. The fork could also be lighter.
DVO Onyx D1 38 SL - Data, values & BIKE verdict
Fox 38 Factory X2
In model year 2025, the 38 also fulfils our high expectations and delivers a thrilling duel with the ZEB . In a direct comparison, the 38 cannot surpass the comfort of the ZEB, but it scores with more and, above all, even counter-pressure over the entire suspension travel.
The fork is very predictable in every situation and levels out rough passages with the greatest confidence. The response behaviour is also impressive across the board, but cannot quite match the ZEB. The ability to bleed the castings at the touch of a button offers added value compared to the competition. There is criticism for the handling. The undefined clicks of the pressure levels make setup difficult.
Fox 38 Factory X2 - Data, values & BIKE verdict
Rockshox ZEB Ultimate - TEST WINNER bike 2024
The Rockshox ZEB takes the test victory by a narrow margin. Its greatest strengths: simple and intuitive setup, best weight and outstanding response behaviour.
Even though the Rockshox isn't quite as stable in its travel as the Fox, it's enough to win the points. As the fork is generally comfort-orientated, we recommend a little more compression than usual. Then the ZEB also skilfully parries hard hits.
We recommend the test winner to comfort-conscious enduro riders who want maximum traction. Those who want to test their limits in rough terrain will be happy with the sportier character of the 38.
Rockshox ZEB Ultimate - Data, values & BIKE verdict
More about MTB suspension forks & shocks
Max Fuchs
Editor
