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DT Swiss OPM O.D.L 120 29 fork


This fork is impressively stiff despite the slender chassis, and although damping control isn't as good as some of the big names, the taut feel means it's worth considering if you're all about cross­country speed.

The new One Piece Magnesium chassis uses a reverse arch design with webbed casting instead of the old hollow box design. It's impressively stiff and delivers good steering precision while minimising flutter under braking. The new Open Drive Lock damper gives a good range of low speed adjustment via a top dial and bar-mounted remote controls engage a lockout. We found that the spring was progressive enough to drop the air pressure and simply add a couple of clicks to give support.

While supportive and well controlled, overall there's not as much damping sensitivity as the other forks on test, which leads to lost traction on chattery corners. This feel does lend itself well to a taut if not plush bob-free ride, something that will endear it to hard and fast racers looking for a bit more travel.

The RWS screw-thru axle is secure but a bit more faffy than other flip-lever designs, with the lever contacting the leg when almost wound in.

Stiff and supportive and reasonably lightweight but lacks damping sensitivity compared to the best.

Weight 1680g
Offset 45mm
Axle to crown 525mm

Price 1125$
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