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X-Fusion Trace RL2 GSA fork


X-Fusion used to stand out because of its low prices but performance of its forks is now truly competitive, if not quite the bargains they once were.

With the addition of the Gold Slick Anodising, a 82$ option, breakaway friction is further reduced allowing the excellent RL2 damper to do its job. It's not quite as supple as the Fox on trail chatter, but it's much more supportive all the way through the stroke, with a progressive feel that encourages hard riding.

When things do get really rough, the 34mm legged chassis is noticeably more precise than anything else on test, with the ability to cut harder lines through rugged terrain and place the wheel with pinpoint accuracy. It feels solidly and consistently damped and nigh on impossible to unsettle.

Surprisingly for this hard­hitting ability, it's not the heaviest fork here and should you wish to up the ante even more, it's internally adjustable up to 140mm of travel. It's also available with a new Roughcut damper, which offers independent high and low speed compression adjustment.

A hard hitting, progressive and well damped fork that's ready to take on anything.

Weight 1915g
Offset 51mm
Axle to crown 526mm

Price 975$
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