Öhlins RXC34 and TXCAir: Öhlins presents XC suspension fork and damper

Öhlins presents two new products: the RXC34 suspension fork and the TXC Air damperwhich is available in two different installation dimensions. What stands out at first glance compared to the previous suspension forks from Sweden, such as the RXF 34is the much shorter maximum suspension travel of 120 millimetres as opposed to 120-160 millimetres. But this is not the only new feature, there is also a clever riding mode system that can be controlled via a remote lever. Let's first take a look at the RXC34 suspension fork.

The new Öhlins RXC34 suspension fork is available in two versions

Öhlins is trying to fulfil the requirements of modern cross-country courses with its new fork - the RXC34 has stanchions with a diameter of 34 millimetres. Just like its predecessor, the RXF34, it continues the trend towards stiffer and more stable chassis. One plus point is that the damping cartridge and air unit of the new suspension fork are compatible with its predecessor.

The Öhlins RXC34 will be available in two versions: a 100 millimetre version with a one-piece upper section, in which the stem and crown are made of carbon. The alternative version is available with 110/120 millimetres and a carbon or aluminium upper section, depending on taste. The material also has a clear effect on the weight. The carbon version weighs around 1500 grams and the 120 millimetre aluminium version a little more at around 1600 grams.

Comparison with the predecessor of the Öhlins suspension fork

According to the Swedish manufacturer, the aim of the new Öhlins RXC34 was to adapt the suspension fork even more to the conditions of cross-country use. Öhlins has therefore given the new RXC an enlarged negative chamber - which should result in a more sensitive response behaviour. Damping is provided by an OTX14 cartridge. Especially for racing, the RXC has three riding modes that can be controlled with a remote lever: Open, Pedal and Lockout.

Open mode maximises traction and control and provides support when riding downhill. When the remote lever is set to Pedal mode, overall riding efficiency is maximised. Lockout mode is designed to maximise pedalling efficiency on flat terrain. The spring characteristic can also be adjusted to individual requirements and it is possible to change the volume of the positive and negative chambers using spacers. The price of the new Öhlins RXC34 suspension fork will start at 1495 euros for the aluminium version and 1695 euros for the carbon version.

Details of the Öhlins RXC34 suspension fork

• 3 riding modes: open, pedal, lockout
• Suspension travel: 100, 100-120 mm
• Up to 5 positive volume spacers
• Up to 7 negative spacers
• Race version (100 mm) with carbon fork crown 1476 g
• 110/120 mm carbon version 1496 g
• 110/120 mm aluminium version 1598g (100 mm will be available later)
• Prices: 1495 Euro aluminium, 1695 Euro carbon

The new Öhlins TXCAir XC air damper with two installation dimensions

The counterpart to this is the new TXCAir air damper from Öhlins. The TXC1Air version weighs just 245 grams, making it a real lightweight - its all-mountain siblings weigh more than 400 grams. It is particularly suitable for XC race bikes, as its slim housing ensures good frame compatibility. The standard TXC2Air version has a larger air chamber, is available with or without remote control and is only slightly heavier at 255 grams. The chamber volume of both shocks can be changed and the stroke adjusted using spacers. The new Öhlins Cross Country fork and the shock were developed as a unit and therefore both offer the same three riding modes: open, pedal and lockout. Both versions utilise Öhlins' patented Twintube technology - the twin-tube design separates compression and rebound from each other, allowing for improved damping control. The dampers cost 695 euros.

Details of the Öhlins TXCAir damper

• 3 riding modes: open, pedal, lockout
• Customisable with volume spacer
• Adjustable stroke
• 2 versions: slimline housing (TXC1Air) and standard (TXC2Air)
• Remote and manual control possible
• Installation dimensions TXC1Air: 165/190 - 37.5/40 mm and 185/210 - 47.5/50 mm
• Installation dimensions TXC2Air: 165/190 - 37.5/40/42.5/45 mm and 185/210 - 47.5/50/52.5/55 mm
• Weight: TXC1Air from 245 g and TXC2Air from 255 g
• - Prices: TXC1/TXC2 Air 695 Euro each