X-Fusion's Radical Revel HLR - Interbike 2013

Sep 18, 2013 at 13:39
by Mike Levy  


Revel HLR Details

• Intended use: all-mountain/enduro
• Travel: 140 - 160mm (650B), 120 - 140mm (29'')
• X-Fusion's HLR damper
• Adjustments: high/low speed, independently adjustable    compression and rebound
• Spring: 'Dual-Spring Air System'
• 34mm stanchion tubes
• Tapered steerer tube
• 20mm 'LockX' thru-axle
• Carbon stanchion guards
• Lifetime service program
• 200 Revels to be produced
• Weight: 4.5LB (claimed)
• MSRP: $1,776 USD

X-Fusion shook up the establishment, as well as reader's expectations, when they released information and photos of their new inverted Revel HLR fork here on Pinkbike last week, and now we were able to see, hold, and tinker with the ultra-exclusive fork at Interbike. Why would we refer to the Revel as being ultra-exclusive? Because X-Fusion plans to offer just two hundred of them - all assembled by hand in their Santa Cruz facility - and because they will retail for a staggering $1,776 USD. Yes, you read that correctly - the Revel will carry an MSRP that might have you wondering if its gold anodizing is actually real gold. While the fork's price will surely put many off, it should be pointed out that there are many high-end downhill forks that retail for similar prices, and that the Revel's
extremely limited numbers play a big factor in its asking price. X-Fusion could, of course, lower the fork's cost by assembling it in Taiwan like nearly every other option on the market, thereby allowing them to manufacture much high quantities and lower the fork's price. That strategy isn't in the cards, though, with X-Fusion aiming to produce a no-holds-barred fork that has no peers and isn't stymied by trying to hit an OE price point. Those limited production numbers also let them offer Revel owners free lifetime labour service on the fork, with only replacement parts being billed.

X-Fusion Revel HLR

Carbon fiber guards (a rapid prototype plastic version is pictured here) will protect the Revel's stanchion tubes, and a clean hose guide will come stock from X-Fusion.



Torsional Rigidity via Keyways

There have been quite a few inverted downhill forks throughout the years, but just a few single crown variations during that same time. The problem boils down to torsional rigidity, or rather the lack of it, that can be sourced to the absence of a fork arch that would connect the two sides. So, how did X-Fusion get around this? ''The secret to the whole USD system comes down to our patented Gold-E-Lock system,'' X-Fusion's John Hauer explains. ''Trilateral keyways located along each side of the stanchion and upper tubes restricts any twisting and gives you the most stout and consistent stroke over every impact.'' This is in line with our speculation when we first spotted an early prototype version of the fork at last year's Eurobike tradeshow, but Hauer has now been able to spill the beans on how the system functions.
bigquotesThe Revel, with its 34mm stanchion tubes, is far more stout than any 35mm or 36mm chassis on the market. - John Hauer, marketing manager

The patented Gold-E-Lock design consists of three keyways machined into the inner wall of the fork's upper tubes, as well as into the fork's stanchion tubes. Riding in each of those keyways is a single stainless steel barrel that is free to travel up and down within their slots, with three barrels employed in each fork leg. The keyways machined into the stanchion tubes are also slightly oversized to allow the barrels to "float" and prevent binding, but there is zero free play in the legs when both sides are tied together with a hub between them. The layout is similar to what is employed within some telescoping seatposts, although it sounds much more robust and uses stainless steel as opposed to the softer brass keys found in the posts. How does it feel? We slid the fork's 20mm 'LockX' thru-axle out and compressed each leg separately - it was incredibly supple and smooth, although proper trail time is the only thing that can provide real testing feedback, something we'll be able to do within the next few months once we receive our Revel HLR review fork.


X-Fusion Revel HLR

The main air spring is adjusted at the top of the right leg, while a secondary valve at the bottom of the same leg controls ramp-up during the last 30% of the fork's stroke.



Separate Bottom Out Spring Control

There is more to the Revel HLR than just its clever keyway layout, with X-Fusion's 'Dual-Spring Air System' allowing for some serious spring tuning potential. An air valve atop the right fork leg allows owners to adjust the Revel's air spring rate, but a secondary valve at the bottom of the same leg also gives them better control over the last 30% of the fork's travel. Want more bottom out resistance? Simply add more pressure, and vice versa. Internally, the air spring chamber features an IFP (internal floating piston) that divides the chamber into two sections, with the upper acting as the main air spring and the lower controlling the last 30%.


X-Fusion Revel HLR

Their great HLR damper has been dropped inside.


HLR Damper Inside

As you might expect, X-Fusion's twin-tube HLR damper is tucked in the left fork leg. We've said it before and we'll say it again: we've been very impressed with the HLR damper anytime that we've put time on it, with a level of control over the compression stroke that, until very recently, wasn't common to see from most of X-Fusion's competition. It's for this reason that we're happy to hear that the damper is exactly the same, with no changes from their proven design.


X-Fusion Revel HLR

X-Fusion has gone with a 20mm axle for the Revel, a move that will likely make a lot of riders happy.


20mm Thru-Axle

While 15mm fork axles are here to stay, at least for the foreseeable future, there is still an uproar from consumers every time a new mid-travel trail or all-mountain fork is released, with it being quite clear that 20mm is still the preference by and large for most people out there. Many will be happy to see that X-Fusion made the call to go with the larger axle on their new 160mm travel fork, a move that allows true downhill hubs to be used. Their reasoning boils down to rigidity, and the new LockX thru-axle features four small wedges that expand out into the fork's axle clamp as the lever is shut. The opposite leg is home to the Revel's bolt-on brake adapter, with X-Fusion planning to offer mounts for 180mm and 200mm rotors, both in matching anodized gold.


www.xfusionshox.com

Author Info:
mikelevy avatar

Member since Oct 18, 2005
2,032 articles

270 Comments
  • 154 8
 I have to say it looks a lot better with those stanchion guards.
  • 71 9
 Yeah just hope they release a decent black version...
  • 51 14
 it does look allot better with the guards but not good enough to spend almost 1800 dollars on drop the price about 900 dollars and make a black version and then I would maybe consider it if rock shox and fox shox didn't exist.
  • 11 4
 Yeah, full ANO black would look incredible
  • 12 6
 BLACK is here: p.vitalmtb.com/photos/stories/2013/09/11/max_Inverted_X_Fusion_Revel_HLR_Fork_594311.jpg?1378938343
With that solved, I dare to say, this fork is perfect.
  • 8 0
 i do believe that black fork was a prototype from quite a few months ago.
  • 18 20
 FINALLY!!! A single crown fork with 20mm drop outs Big Grin
  • 32 3
 @ Mattin....

Lyrik, 36....20mm already....where have you been?
  • 27 4
 Looks cheese. Sorry, just being honest. Needs a better finish and a crown that doesn't look like a Wal-Mart bike.
  • 5 0
 Im not a big fan but I must say... Its about time somebody made a gold crown.
  • 12 0
 I just don't like the tubular look, like welded steel crowns on cheap bikes. It just reminds me of that...
  • 6 0
 That's what I said last week, that crown looks very bush league to me with the tubes.
  • 4 0
 is just me or does it look retro as fuck
  • 6 15
flag wakaba (Sep 18, 2013 at 15:23) (Below Threshold)
 Agree. The crown is a letdown. LE pricing is pure fiction. Black version looks way better. Interesting fork - XF is still bargain basement - no matter how goldy. So price it accordingly - RS Domain SC comes to mind. 500 - tops. 100 extra if its really made in the US in its entirety. Oh its missing a 20mm axle, -100.
  • 2 0
 No, you're right.....it sure does have a retro look to it. I myself don't think it's hideous per-say, there's just some aspects of it that need a bit of tweeking imo. But yeah, the pricing.....seriously??? Plus the clamp on 'drop-outs' and bolt on brake mount get to me.
  • 4 2
 Hipsters!!!! Its all about the looks!!!!!
  • 21 1
 Made in the U.S. and it costs $1776? Coincidence?
  • 5 2
 Willie1 an 1800 fork should look like one. Sorry. That's not hipster that's just reality.
  • 5 1
 What does an $1800 fork look like for a hipster? A tubular welded crown is one of the strongest/lightest ways to make them. Cast is cheaper, but not stronger or lighter.
  • 2 0
 no arch above the tire seem so unnatural..... haha
  • 4 2
 Come on guys! Black is boring! At least, a bit of originality here... My vote for anodized gold... and red... and blue! Smile
  • 3 0
 Black is clean, looks good, and works with any colour scheme/component.
  • 3 1
 Then buy one Willie - I think it looks tacky. I'm not a fashion queen but of be lying if I said I don't want my parts to look nice. Toned down with all black would go a long way and work on the graphics, just sayin
  • 2 0
 It really does have an awkward aesthetic going on but that aside, it's rad to see it done. Just part of the evolution, good things are coming.
  • 2 0
 No doubt man I love inverted forks i rode a shiver for awhile and loved it. So buttery.
  • 12 0
 The way he saying 34mm is more stout than 35-36mm girth is making us asian people feel relieve.
  • 1 0
 I must say Im a fan of the looks, reminds me of the action toys i used to play with as child..retro yet futuristic, if i had the money! Oh yeah, FU fox! Even before the 2013 ctd scam their 32's were shit.
  • 1 0
 @enduro86: that's true if you don't know how to mix and match colors... it's like people who only dress in black and white because they're afraid of being distasteful... anyway, to each his own. I love color(s) and the way they highlight the looks of a bike.
  • 1 0
 Liking it more with the guards as well. Price tag seems to match the color option, though. Maybe that makes me want it more. Maybe.
  • 3 0
 I'll wait for DVO's option....
  • 1 0
 I would rock it... if someone gave it to me.
  • 1 0
 thats about 1000 more than i would pay for a single crown fork....
  • 4 0
 Too all the haters, go try one. Go try any X-Fuzzles, every fork they make feels incredible.
  • 1 1
 @Quebracho. Perfect if you ride a 650b or 29er yeah.
  • 2 0
 That "hose guide" looks like sin! But, sounds like a sick fork and I look forward to the long term review.
  • 5 0
 Am i the only one who thinks this looks amazing? Build quality looks great! Nice job Xfusion
  • 2 0
 rexbikes, no. I want it. But I have a thing for SC USD forks... Been lusting after mini dorados forever... And baby shivers are like hens teeth too. When they do crop up, they're more expensive than when they were sold new Frown I reckon these will be a good investment going by that record.
  • 1 0
 Lol.. there's loads of sc forks using 20mm :/
  • 2 0
 looks nice in black, but award for most stupid PR excercise has got to go to Xfusion for this. this is a fork that im sure a lot of people will like the look of but bugger all are gonna buy, therefore its pointless, why not just actually make this a reasonably priced fork that actually available to most of us. think DVO are gonna take advantage of this.
  • 1 0
 A lot of you guys wouldn't get to ride it anyway as you all to pro 26er. So no need to complain eh
  • 1 0
 @rexbikes yes I think it looks amazing too. To many haters on here. I thing we need more gold on our bikes Smile
  • 1 0
 @randybadger, I'm not complaining just stating that it's only 2 wheel sizes are a minority (ATM) for most users of this site. Don't get me wrong I want a 650B but I prefer the smaller wheel size because it is so chuckable. I have tried a 29er and 650B and the 650B was amazing but doesn't have a nice turning circle compared to the 26er wheels (obviously).
  • 1 0
 Wasn't pointing a finger at you, just the current wheel size debate complainers.
  • 55 7
 It's expensive but it's a limited run, made in The US. What would you expect?

It's nice to see a suspension company actually listening to what the riders want. None of that qr15 bullshit.
  • 19 29
flag ccolagio (Sep 18, 2013 at 13:53) (Below Threshold)
 ill buy a rock shox pike + an adapter for my front wheel to go from 20mm to 15mm ANY DAY over spending $1,776 for this golden turd
  • 8 33
flag nickkozak FL (Sep 18, 2013 at 13:59) (Below Threshold)
 hahaha a pike? get serious bud
  • 14 1
 Sure, the pike is nice but it's still mass produced in taiwan. Like i said, these are a limited run, made in the US. Machine shop time is expensive and i bet quite a few hours go into making just one of those forks.
  • 18 17
 so you are saying that this fork is better than the pike because it is made in the US, has a smaller production run, and costs $700 more? that is not how suspension design works, engineering works, or manufacturing works.
  • 12 7
 haa. and i missed this point "assembled by hand in their Santa Cruz facility"

so this fork is manufactured in the same exact place as the pike that you are talking about. on the same machines. by the same people. then all the parts are flown to the US and assembled by factory workers in california.
  • 12 6
 No, i'm saying that's why it's more expensive. Whether or not it's worth the price they are asking is a separate issue. That said, I'm willing to bet they hold tighter tolerances than sram do. I'm not sure you know how machining works.
  • 8 31
flag ccolagio (Sep 18, 2013 at 14:19) (Below Threshold)
 tighter tolerances does not mean better performance/design. im not sure you know how engineering works.
  • 20 1
 Engineer vs Engineering Student
  • 6 3
 If I had the money I would get one over a pike.
Not a big fan of having to get all my SRAM stuff warrantied on a regular basis.
Higher tolerances result in higher quality, lower stiction, less maintanance, ligher parts (plus a massive price increase).
  • 11 12
 looks like I rustled some rockshox fan boys with my comment, here is an idea, instead of speculating, the facts were laid out already on the table as to why it costs as much as it does, you can agree or disagree with it all you like. nobody gives a shit your "opinion" on what you would do instead of buying the fork nor your weak minded arguments that make you look upset you cannot afford one. so in closing, unless you are going to buy one and a pike to have an proper comparison, you need to just shut up.
cheers mate
  • 4 7
 Ha if it was 15mm axle it would be even more of a noodle.
  • 6 3
 human make mistakes. hail the robotic taiwanese .
  • 6 0
 It's not really made in the USA...it's ASSEMBLED in the USA.
  • 1 1
 Bigger companies = bigger & better machines = mass production =/= low quality
  • 4 0
 What riders want? I don't live in the States but I have to say I never heard a rider saying he'd love to see a fork for $1776 which will be produced in a limited amount.
I was seriously thinking of buying this fork, I would pay a bit more if it was US made, but for that price they can shove it up their ass, I'll buy a German made Magura for less than half the price.
  • 4 0
 You can't legally say "made in the USA" unless essentially all of the fork has domestic origins. So, even if only their stanchion tubing is made overseas, they'll never be able to say the fork is "made in the USA," hence "assembled in the USA." With the global supply chains we have in place, it's virtually impossible to say anything as complex as a fork is "made in the USA."
  • 3 0
 I would like to add a little to the controversy here, I just recently purchased a 2014 Specialized Enduro comp, equipped with a pike and lo and behold, the damper is not functioning and requires a bleed. I'm a mechanic at the shop where I purchased the bike so resolving the issue is not the problem, but the fact that a brand new, recently released fork does not function properly out of the box is extremely frustrating. Sadly, as many have probably experienced this is not an uncommon experience when dealing with rockshox or other companies that are part of the Sram conglomerate, Avid being one of the first to come to mind. With so much mass produced equipment and what seems like lackluster quality control I can see why the x fusion and other higher end companies have such an appeal.
  • 2 0
 @larrylars12: Interesting experience. To add some fuel to the flames, my brand new 2014 bike came with a reverb dropper. Within the first month of light but regular use, it started leaking fluid and wouldn't support me without sagging. Took it to the LBS and it was deemed a goner--no explanation or reason as to why was given. I did swift replacement from SRAM, free of charge with no questions asked--pretty sure they knew something would go wrong with their posts but they shipped em anyways. That being said, the replacement has been flawless for about 9 months now, but I probably wouldn't buy a RockShox product without a warranty.
  • 40 1
 My god you people on pinkbike bitch and moan a lot! This fork is what it is... expensive, rare, hand-built in the US... it's a niche fork for those willing to dish out some money for something unique and I'm guessing damn durable. Piss and moan all you want about what you think of the price, I'm sure many "normal" bike people think you are an insane idiot for buying a $600 fork. You build one and then let me know what you want for it... I'm guessing a lot more when you are done putting 80 hours into it. Waaaaaaaa!
  • 8 0
 People at work damn near sh!t themselves when I say my bikes worth $1500 then make sure im talking about a pedal bike and then call me a fool still
  • 5 0
 @rclugnut F those people for being naive and ignorant!!
  • 2 1
 that may be so, but lately mountain biking has turned in to a joke pricing wise. with pinkbike now posting $5000 bikes as enthusiast. I mean I know these are specialist machines but its slowly turning in to how much money can be farmed out of us.
  • 2 1
 I don't give a f*ck whether it's unique or not, it's a suspension fork, not an oil painting. Moreover if you live in Ireland, riding any kind of mountian bike is enough to make you stand out Big Grin
  • 1 0
 Amen brother. People will pay $1700 for a laptop no problem when they can just go to the public library for free. If you have the means, make the ends.
  • 43 4
 For $1700, that better come with free lube while I bend over for that price.
  • 8 0
 Hilarious
  • 8 2
 free lube and speed-sensitive damping
  • 15 0
 Free lube, but no bottom-out control.
  • 5 0
 Put a whole new meaning on pre-load!!
  • 6 1
 i think the world got used to getting f*cked over by the usa.. and they Always come first... lol
  • 1 0
 I wish they'd get used to it...unless massive reforms in our education and criminal justice systems--at a minimum--occur soon, the world will continue to get f*cked over by the good ole USA for another 100 years or longer.
  • 22 1
 Everything about this fork screams some Judas Priest 50th anniversary album cover or some shit...
  • 3 0
 just another reason I want one!, long live Priest!
  • 14 0
 This strikes me as more of an attempt for X-Fusion to up their brand image by showing they can do bling and super high end stuff. Ultimately it will bring more people to their more affordable lower end products.
  • 7 1
 Thats what it is.
  • 10 0
 They already are super high end, biggest secret in suspension, market they're Vengeance series, Vector shocks are better than anything Ive ridden from Fox by a long margin, stik ya CTD! This might give them more market awareness. Very underrated brand, even Slant and limited play with a Trace had me impressed! Im pre ordering this puppy, but keep the Vengeance as well! Purfect!
  • 6 0
 Vengeance coil is the best fork I've riden. I rate it better than the new pike.
  • 2 0
 I've spent a lot of saddle time on both vengeance air and coil, as well as vector coil. To me, they feel the same as their spec'd comparable products (160/170 36 Van and Float forks/shock) in my opinion. That was both pushing it on DH and riding trail/AM. I would get X-Fusion before Fox any day of the week unless I had absolutely nothing else to spend my money on (and who has that problem?)
  • 1 5
flag wakaba (Sep 18, 2013 at 22:22) (Below Threshold)
 X? No support, inflated pricing, warranty hassles, service centers have no clue. Suntour made shock or fork. Nope not a chance I am going to perceive them as quality product. Price the fork accordingly.
  • 2 0
 Another classic wakabian comment.

Your idea of "no support": I've contacted them through several bike shops, as well as messaging reps here on Pinkbike. I have received timely responses each time and their advice has helped me every time.
Your idea of "Inflated pricing": Right, because we've all seen competing Fox and RockShox products get a lower MSRP.
Your idea of "Service Centers have no clue": Each shop I've been to that's been a certified center for Fox, Rockshox or Marzocchi has agreed that XF products are generally easier to service.
Suntour made shock or fork: Have you tried any of Suntour's higher end products? Make that comment when you legitimately have trail tested their stuff.

X-Fusion has established themselves as a competitive name in suspension components, and your whining isn't going to make them go away.
  • 1 0
 @ Lind, well said, if I may, just want to add this-
DVO is engineered in the US and made by Suntour. (seen several refferences on here about waiting for DVO's product.)
Little known fact: Suntour is the largest manufacturer of bicycle forks in the world. It just so happens that they make everything from the $25 fork on your dept store bike to the $2000 DVO Emerald.

Just built up a Knolly Podium team bike for a friend, it has the Suntour RUX dh fork on it...have been able to compare it side by side with a Boxxer, dorado and 888 (all newer forks) and it feels incredible, would gladly run a RUX any day.

I know this post is old...but anyway
  • 2 0
 @nikoli: good to see I'm not the only trolling old threads haha. That aside, I'd gladly run a RUX over a Fox or RockShox any day, but will probably end up with an RV1 as my next fork.
  • 1 0
 @loamydog
Haha... I was trolling trying to find info on the fork in this article and came across this thread...I try to resist posting anything, but sometimes I just have to say something.....
  • 7 0
 Laser etched logos... it needs laser etching. Past that, its an interesting concept, especially coming from those guys. Love it or hate it, your talking about it, so even if it's just a marketing stunt, seems like its working.
  • 7 1
 It's funny how vain mtbrs are, they buy products based purely off looks and could care less how it actually works and they want everything for chump change. I wouldn't give 2 shits if it had dildos all over it, if it work better then the shit fox, rockshox, marz. Etc. are making, I'm in. That said 1800 is alittle ambitious.
  • 3 0
 I can concur, did they say " Lifetime service program" if it can make a season and I just send back every winter???
  • 6 1
 We talkin jolly green giants or black mambas here?
  • 1 0
 Awesome!
  • 5 0
 I had my Vector tuned by the supplier before being sent to my LBS no extra and the thing is amazing, comparing CCDBa and Coil, RC4, Float CTD (pos) only RS Monarch Plus had me thinking lighter weight, Importer awesome service and support here in NZed, not regretted since first ride not once!

Would rather a black or white Revel, but knowing the performance over the rest and having an inverted fork sign me up. I"ll pre order for lifetime services and support and no doubt exceptional performance, 20mm axle, the HLR damper is awesome and easy to tune.
  • 9 1
 Lil' Wayne now has a fork for his mountain bike.
  • 11 4
 Why does it matter where its made. robots in Taiwan are going to more precise then any human. I'd rather have a lower price.
  • 5 0
 anyone else think the stickers look like cheap hollowgraphic pokemon cards?

cmon for 1776, you should atleast give the people some nice 3m, or atleast laser etch it on there.
  • 2 0
 Exactly what I thought at first glace. The decals look like that glittery scotch-tape from the 90's.
  • 4 0
 Great idea about the free servicing... for their accountants anyway. Stainless steel keys inside aluminium tracks, that's not going to last long is it? You have to pay for parts in a service they say? Well you'll need new legs every year with that setup, and they aren't going to come cheap!

Otherwise great, it looks like a sick fork. I love the gold. It looks factory moto all the way.
  • 16 11
 "The Revel, with its 34mm stanchion tubes, is far more stout than any 35mm or 36mm chassis on the market."

- John Hauer, Bullshit Connoisseur
  • 7 7
 guessing you have measured them then?

I thought not....
  • 38 9
 Have you measured this?

....................../´¯/)
....................,/¯../
.................../..../
............./´¯/'...'/´¯¯`·¸
........../'/.../..../......./¨¯\
........('(...´...´.... ¯~/'...')
.........\.................'...../
..........''...\.......... _.·´
............\..............(
  • 6 11
flag mega-turtle (Sep 18, 2013 at 14:52) (Below Threshold)
 wow.... just.. wow...
  • 7 2
 USD fork with "lefty technology"=> stiffer than a non USD fork with round stanchions. 1 or 2mm more don't add so much stiffness.
  • 4 4
 thank you faul, exactly my point
  • 3 0
 All the people saying that the crown is welded are wrong. You can see the machining marks showing that it was made from a solid block of aluminum. Same goes for the axle lugs at the bottom of each fork leg. The amount of machining that has gone into this fork is unreal, and I'm not at all surprised by the price.
  • 3 0
 Hmmm. Could look pretty sweet on a murdered out Turner Burner with the right hubs. I guess I can get used to the ghetto Gold lame style if it rides right . When can we get a test ride?
Carbon Enve's or Revel? Screw it I will just buy me and my son new KTM's.
  • 8 1
 This fork was involved in an unfortunate shmelting accident
  • 1 1
 jokes...
  • 2 0
 For that price why not offer different anodizing colour options?? (This also applies to the emerald). I get that it's a part of the branding but still, if I'm laying down almost 2k on a fork I'd like it to match my build. Cost of stocking some extra outters would be F all compared to internals and the actual development costs of this fork.

I am really skeptical on the use of non bushed keyways within the fork, if they are using the thickness of the aluminum stanchions sliding on a stainless steel keyway I would expect that to wear quickly. It would be nice to see that, really this article doesn't cover much more than the last one on this fork.
  • 11 5
 What the f*ck? 1800 for x fusion? .... no way bro!
  • 3 1
 I don't think they're actually expecting anyone to buy it but they're showing off what they can do. if some eccentric millionaires or rappers or something buy a few, that's money in their pocket but they will be okay if everyday people don't even consider buying one.
  • 6 1
 Thank you X-Fusion for making my new PIKE look like an absolute bargin!!! You rule!!
  • 5 3
 "The Revel, with its 34mm stanchion tubes, is far more stout than any 35mm or 36mm chassis on the market. - John Hauer, marketing manager"--so says the marketing guy trying to sell a $1800 enduro fork. Let's see the real world tests.
  • 4 2
 Take a look at how much bigger the upper tubes are than the 35/36mm tubes on a conventional fork. The largest amount of flex is at the crown, and inverted has a much larger interface there. That's why Moto switched. in the late 80s/early 90s.
  • 2 0
 From the pics you can't easily tell the diameter. I am looking at the lowers on my 34" (the equivalent of the uppers on inverts) and mine look larger. Not saying he isn't correct, I would just like some side by side comparison and testing.
  • 3 1
 The arguements over this fork reminds me of the Super Monster T.
The Super Monster T is extremely rare and niche and fetches prices upwards of $3000.00 for ones still in the box.

If it came out today for $800.00, people would think Marzocchi is insane and that they wouldn't sell a single one.
But much like this X-fusion fork, it is different, it is cool, it is awesome looking and people will probabaly be lining up to buy it.

If you want to make a bunch of money, start manufacturing Super Monster T copies. I would but nobody will give me the venture capital.
  • 2 0
 This dual air design is identical to what Marzocchi was doing with the infamous ata cartridges of 2008 and 2009. Anyone whos taken one fully apart knows what im talking anout. Although it had a most incredible feel and tunanility compared to any other fork I'd ever riden, it had some major reliability issues. I was able to rebuild mine about 4 times and keep it running. Hopefully they've gone with better seals and a better method of retaining the floating piston.
  • 2 1
 O.K., I don't have a calculator, but say it was only sold in the U.S., it would only come out to 4 PER STATE! That means only four bike shops in your state will only get one each. I know, I know, Canada and other countires will get some too, but lets just go with this math for simplicity. Figure with bike shop "bro" deal hook ups, is there any chance YOU are the guy that gets one? Having said that, can I order mine today? Hypothetically, of course.
  • 16 15
 I would guess that well over 95% the MTB community is never EVER going to spend $1,500 on a fork. whether that be a DC fox, rock shox, marzocchi, DVO...what on earth makes x-fusion think they can charge this much for a SC fork?!?!?!
  • 2 3
 amen
  • 7 0
 maybe its real gold, thats why its so expensive!!!
  • 11 0
 Limited production run, exclusivity, free life time parts and labour service, and it's made in the US. That is a good friggin deal IMO
  • 11 0
 Oo....Life time parts and labor? That my friend is worth it's weight in gold.
  • 11 1
 They are only making 200 of them and i guarantee you they will sell all 200
  • 21 0
 Oh dear, here we go again..
That's like asking: what is Ferrari thinking !? putting a price like that on car.. 95% of drivers can't afford it.
Or why Volkswagen, the producer of some of the most reasonable cars also makes 7 f*cking million $ Bugatti Veyron and still doesn't even make a profit of it, in fact loosing huge amount of money with this project.

hints: Future technology, Innovation, Showcase, Advertisement, Wall papers, fans - future customers...

If you want to know what tech. is gonna available be in your family hatchback in 10 years check out current S-class Mercedes. Now apply this to MTB or any industry
  • 7 0
 I do service my own suspension, but looking at my LBS, it cost 75 for labor, oil and 30 for seals @ twice a year. That's not bad at all. Keep it for 4 years and you that's over 800 you save on on maintenance. Plus, owning 1 of 200 exclusive forks...priceless.
  • 8 0
 No free parts, but free labor.
  • 4 0
 They charge whatever they feel fair for 200 limited forks with free service. Remember what you pay for other mass produced forks...
Kudos to x-fusion for having the guts to break the stream of sheeps all going the same way and bringing this jewel out. Yeah is golden, yeah is expensive. But if you have what it takes to wear pink and not look gay and the money ( not my case, unfortunately, pun intended) and invest it here, you are welcome in my opinion and I'm sure other's opinions will be irrelevant to this fork owners, this is a great job in the right direction!
  • 3 0
 i just paid $2000 for a chromag surface, why wouldnt i want to pay 1800 bucks for something with moving parts?
  • 1 1
 Yea man. Remember when x-Fusion was a "by the people, for the people" brand? Great forks for cheap, then they Frankenstein a Walmart fork and charge 2x more than anything in their lineup. Wake up X-Fusion, real people won't pay that much, ever!
  • 3 2
 OK its expensive but if its good its worth it. Besides I like the fact that they build the thing in the US. Once the tech is more known to XFusion they will built a Taiwan assembled version which will probably cost around 1299 dollars and it will come in black Wink . But I'll go for gold.
  • 2 1
 Two things:
1. I want to see a video of Brian Lopes testing this at Whistler, Northstar, etc...

2. As weird as this sounds , I think the fork will actually sell for more than its msrp. Due to its extremely low volume production, built in the USA and its extra special service agreement. Demand will exceed supply.
  • 2 0
 1776*200=$355200

That would barely pay for a couple engineer years of development at most, for a cheap engineer. And then you need to manufacture it. And sell it.

Why are they doing this at a loss?
  • 1 1
 your forgetting they are reusing a lot of the old tech like the HLR damper so not a build from scratch
  • 1 1
 you are also assuming they will sell direct. Their wholesale price is considerably less, which is where they will hope to see a return on their investment- not at full retail.
  • 1 0
 The number quoted is the maximum total revenue for the whole project that XFusion can get. If they sell it for less, total revenue to XFusion will be less, so it will be less profitable.
Even reusing bits and pieces - at 300k you can not design and develop much. Pretty sure they are doing this at a loss.

Unless they plan to use the first 200 of units assembled in US as a test run, debug issues with first sucke... err.. customers, and then move to a full scale production (in non-bling limited edition colors) at their Taiwanese contractor.
  • 1 0
 Interesting fork, I look forward to an indepth review. I've been hearing a lot of good things about X-Fusion, and really want to try out some of their stuff. The welded instead of machined crowns are interesting. Stoked that X-Fusion is going with 20 mm thru axle as well.
  • 1 0
 the crown is machined
  • 1 0
 Bah, they need to cater to us poor... They would improve their image if they could out spec and undercut competition more then making a one off that (relatively speaking) no one will ever see in person. As it stands it is utterly pointless product for me and most people here. This is a shame because if they mass produced this and priced it competitively (which mass production would allow them to do) then I'd likely go for them over the other suspension makers, as it stands though I cannot get away from the huge advantage RS and Fox have in terms of parts availability and suspension tuners that work on them if I need it. I want more competition in MTB so we can all enjoy lower prices!
  • 3 0
 love the idea, hate the color. looks like X-fusion asked a pimp what kind of colorway they should use
  • 3 0
 If its as good as they say it is hopefully they will keep it around and trickle down some of this tech. Looks sick though!
  • 3 1
 My only problem with the fork is I just wish it had more gold on it.

At least it will go with my iphone. teamcoco.com/video/conan-highlight-gold-iphone
  • 3 0
 damn right better come with a lifetime service plan, and maybe a replaceable crown. that thing looks like it could snap
  • 1 0
 Limited edition, life time warranty. I already like the travel and 20 mil thru axel. If ya have the bucks you get a true bling fork that only 200 peeps get to own. This fork rocks!
  • 1 0
 I like seeing small batch homegrown components made. Wish more companies would do this and give the consumer a choice in where their product was made even if it is at a higher price.
  • 4 1
 Way to go X-Fusion with the 20mm axle!
  • 1 4
 do you not get the rockshox lyric or fox 36 where you are....hello, both 20mm already and have been for years.
  • 2 0
 lol?! I meant that I'm happy they didn't join on the 15mm bandwagon!
  • 1 1
 ah.....ok, that makes more sense....lol
  • 3 0
 Looks like Shiver.. but only gold motiff
  • 2 3
 Who's going to buy this when most of us are on 26inch bikes? These companies are shooting themselves in the foot for making only 27.5 components. Not enough people have the 27.5 bikes to even start to think about switching components, etc. I hope this backfires - long live 26!
  • 3 1
 XF has long been making 26"/650B products. Every Velvet/Vengeance fork has been both 26" and 650B compatible. I rather doubt using a smaller wheel will make this for explode the moment it touches dirt, so stop bellyaching about wheel size. It's not going to die like Sugai vehemently demands.
  • 1 0
 Exactly. It's not going to make any difference if you run a 26" on it.
  • 2 0
 I guess American's need continual reminding that 1776 was their year of independence?
  • 1 0
 I would have bought this fork today if it fitted my SB66. I did not realise it was only for the bigger wheeled guys. Gutted. Guess I'm waiting on DVO.
  • 3 0
 ouch $1700. Thats more than my bike.
  • 2 1
 Where was your bike made? I'm guessing not handmade in CA.
  • 1 0
 whereever specialized was made at. :p just saying. Looks like a nice fork that rocks but it would cost more than my bike. lol
  • 3 0
 Specializeds are made in the two chinas.
  • 3 1
 Finally a new long travel fork with 20mm! Not a huge fan of the gold, but I'd get over it. Want!
  • 2 2
 The industry doesn't care that you've invested in 20mm hubs - everything except for the biggest travel forks will be 15mm in the future. Just suck it up and buy some axle-reducer kits.
  • 1 0
 free lifetime labor service from the x-fusion mechanic working at the santa cruz facility = very happy customer. i'd get over the price tag pretty quickly
  • 1 2
 I really really like this fork. Just hate the fact no one seems to be putting any effort into styling the crown of suspension forks, to flow with the lines of these modern frames. look at the crown and headtube, looks like oil meets water. If I had that money burning a hole in my pocket, I would get this fork. Not in gold though.
  • 3 2
 Second time we've seen this fork... Am I still the only one who looks at that crown and has massive doubts? *snappy snap snap*
  • 1 0
 yep me too, for a expensive fork it looks hell of a cheap in terms of the crown build quality
  • 1 0
 I bet this is one sick fork. Why don't they list the travel for 26"? Is it any different than 27.5? Figured more people would be upset about that.
  • 1 0
 There isnt a 26er version being made. Also its two hundred forks total being made, split between 650B and 29ers. The actual numbers of each will depend on what their dealers order. As each is hand made they can just build them to suit each customer as orders are received.
  • 3 0
 quite sure a 26 will fit
  • 3 0
 Of course, 26 x 2.6/2.7s are the same inflated diameter as a 650B x 2.3.
  • 3 0
 Im loving my vengeance hlr. This should be interesting
  • 2 0
 $1700+.... I thought you were joking. I even wrote it in my journal "xfusion told a funny joke today". When in Rome.
  • 1 0
 It's funny how everyone was raging because it didn't have fork guards. As if they would release it without them?! Seriously...
  • 4 0
 It even said it would have them in the article. People are basically illiterate.
  • 1 0
 basically.
  • 1 0
 I am a believer of the inverted fork in that they are plusher and seem to ride a lot better I also believe that looks arnt everything.. but those forks are so dam ugly...
  • 1 0
 Going to buy one. Call it "first world" money wasted if you want, but that's the kind of product we see SO RARELY that it is worth the premium. SOrry.
  • 2 0
 "20mm axle that will make a lot of riders happy" No, it will make exactly 200 riders happy.
  • 4 3
 $1800?!?! Are you kidding me? This fork looks like it would be on a bike from back to the future haha
  • 2 0
 Gash! Fiddler than a fox on fuck biscuits!
  • 3 1
 is HLR abbreviated from hilarious?
  • 1 0
 i c wat u did thur

(HLR- H.igh speed compression, L.ow speed compression, R.ebound adjust)
  • 2 0
 There are so many other things I could buy for $1,800
  • 3 0
 Coke and hookers
  • 2 0
 *Rides in front of cops* "I be fresh as hell when da feds watchin!"
  • 2 0
 Hahahahahahahahahahah 1800 hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha
  • 1 2
 Hi everyone, sorry to bother around, but I'm looking to help me win the jersey of Marcelo Gutierrez, just have to vote at this link on Facebook, in my comment Camilo Triviño, thanks.

bit.ly/18vuc6F
  • 1 0
 why just why.... this thing is so sexy but ill never be able to afford one...
  • 1 0
 Free life time Labour only have to pay for parts makes that price seem not to bad.
  • 5 3
 " $1,776 USD "
It's in gold or.... ?
  • 1 0
 Très très drôle
  • 2 0
 the weight and inversion are great, but the cost . . .
  • 1 0
 That cable guide needs to be a thing on ALL forks. Best design I have ever seen
  • 1 0
 make it yo self son! doesnt look too hard.
  • 2 1
 what i love about x fusion, is that they really listen to what people want .
  • 2 2
 In the UK xfusion suck. They are a throw away item. After sales service is non existant. Any mountainbiker can get exactly what they need from rock shox or fox
  • 1 0
 and...what are the BENEFITS of an inverted fork compared with a regular fork?
  • 1 0
 just tried to order mine from www.r-c-s.ca since no one in Ontario had any clue what i was talking about .
  • 2 0
 Talked to Brian, 4 months and this gold thing is mine, hope them come in DVO green by then Wink
  • 1 0
 I dont like the crown wish they had gone with a single piece cnc which you would think would be stiffer
  • 1 0
 Interesting that the crown section is welded and not forged at the leg bosses! Strength????
  • 2 0
 LOL they make a fork people want, but can't have sadists
  • 1 0
 I saw the price and stopped reading.

X Fusion Revel HLR: coming soon to a factory sponsored rider near you!
  • 1 0
 I love my X- Fusion Slant but I don't care what color it comes in I'm not paying $1700 :'(
  • 1 1
 Shiver SC and a can of Gold Dupli Color please.

American made or not. $1800 is stupid for a SC AM fork. Its all CNC anyways. Not like its hand made.
  • 2 0
 Sorry for saying it, but the gold makes it look like a chinese toy...
  • 1 0
 Only half Chinese- it needs more red.
  • 1 0
 What can this expensive babe do except saying " I'm a rich douche don't know where to spend and have no view of aesthetic"?
  • 1 0
 why is it that almost every thread on this website turns into one big bitch session? smdh
  • 4 3
 It would look great on a bamboo frame fat bike.
  • 1 0
 Do we know what the offset is?
  • 1 0
 I want the gold, I want to know where the gold at!
  • 1 0
 Tacky as hell wtf are they thinking
  • 2 0
 color sucks
  • 1 1
 They should get actual decals for 1700 bucks not just cheap stickers on the uppers...
  • 1 0
 it should be painted or something more "special"
  • 1 0
 reminds me of hollow graphic pokemon cards
  • 1 0
 I like x fusion forks but why gold and why upside down?
  • 1 0
 Inverted forks, from a performance standpoint, actually make much more sense than the conventional fork design we have. Placing the stanchions at the bottom rather than the top keeps suspension oil around all the hardest-working parts, providing lubrication and cooling- both of which are necessary. The only problem is with flex, but that is only a minor problem- especially looking at the fact that a lot of high-end moto companies put inverted forks on their bikes.
  • 1 0
 $1776.00 - they should be wearing balaclavas when selling them.
  • 1 0
 looks pretty coolSmile The colour reminds me of RS Psylo raceSmile
  • 1 1
 Aren't some FOX forks assembled in the US? And they maintain relatively sane pricing.
  • 2 1
 Pricing might be sane, performance not so much...
  • 1 0
 Only 200 dafuq! Well I won't get my hands on it.
  • 2 0
 I want it.it's sick
  • 1 0
 It's gold of course it's gonna be expensive
  • 1 0
 Would look not out of place at all on an Ellsworth - that's the truth.
  • 1 0
 It's fork is a Marzocchi Psylo ! Smile
  • 1 0
 And I thought the dorado looked interesting
  • 1 0
 Golden Maverick Duc 32
  • 1 1
 I will take it in 150mm please.....
  • 1 1
 Hellooooo Ai am GOLDMEMBER!! And I like GOOOLD!!!
  • 1 0
 you had me at $ 1,776...
  • 1 0
 brave move
  • 1 0
 80mm option and I'm in.
  • 1 0
 no, i dont think so.
  • 1 0
 Looks fresh!
  • 1 0
 I want it!
  • 1 2
 they're gonna sell more than 200 anyway
  • 2 0
 No. They are not. Spinner did a similar thing nearly a decade ago for xc forks. Aeris titanium/scandium, only 200 made and two of them came to ottawa. At the time spinner had been building ALL rockshox forks for three years already.
  • 1 0
 I use spinner forks and they are really nice and cheap
  • 1 0
 Spinner is like Suntour.... they're HUGE in the fork building world. They made their own label forks, and still had production capacity to make ALL rockshox's forks also. A lot of their own forks are cheap things, but they've had some real gems too.
  • 1 0
 What is exactly the point? $350K of revenue means a noticeable loss for them, if you factor in all engineering time. Halo product? Experiment?
  • 1 0
 axxe, it seems like they are trying to create something here to stir up some demand, or almost to cater to people who buy pricey ass suspension, since XFs stuff is usually really cheap.. sure its pricey, but the limited nature, assembled in the US, and lifetime service sort of justifies the price, well for some atleast (not i).. they will sell all 200 no problem.
  • 1 0
 It seems they probably want to debug the design on the first 200 customers, with a limited edition. And then move to their regular manufacturer or what not. Otherwise I do not see how it can possibly make any business sense at $350 total revenue.
  • 1 0
 I meant *they're NOT gonna sell more than 200...
  • 1 0
 A sound statement, considering that they're only manufacturing 200.
  • 1 0
 yeah.. kinda sorta common sense there.
  • 1 0
 That was sarcasm.. Rolleyes
  • 1 0
 it was directed at raph Wink
  • 1 0
 Ha! Fail on my part..
  • 1 0
 ehhh, maybe i should have been more clear and put one of those "@raph" things!
  • 1 0
 lol what I said was sarcasm too... I mean even if they wanted they could'nt sell more
  • 1 0
 Ah, see, our sarcasm actually has validity to its inverse statement. Plenty of X-Fusion customers will want it, and there's certainly more than 200 of us.
  • 12 14
 $1800?!?! as everyone says - go home x-fusion, you're drunk
  • 12 3
 Made in USA. Hence the price.
  • 4 1
 After further consideration $1800 is still ALOT of money for a fork, but if I were to spend that much on a fork of this class, enduro/all-mtn, I must say this may be it. Free lifetime servicing, minus the parts, it seems like it has some really good technology, made in the US and very exclusive, the high price tag is looking more and more justifiable.
  • 6 1
 Not made in USA, assembled in USA
  • 4 1
 how many of you folk are aware that $1700 is the cost of a bum basic entry level fox 34 in the uk.
  • 1 1
 sounds like a poor exchange rate
  • 2 1
 @tate, as erwin has already stated.. BIG DIFFERENCE. this fork would be a lot more than 1776 if it was actually made in the US.


@b45, not sure where you buy from, but go somewhere else. ive never herd of a 34 being that high. maybe the new air 40. but good god.
  • 1 0
 Not joking you mate, things in UK are freaking expensive, to calculate the price for fox products you simply replace $ with pound and add one hundred or two. new fox 40 is about 3000usd
  • 1 2
 lol. your math is off.. the new air 40s msrp is either 1700, add 200 bux and you get 1900 usd... not 3000 usd
  • 2 0
 I mean in the uk is about 3000 usd/ 1700 gbp, oh man its my english thats off...
  • 1 0
 1900 usd is 1182-1184 gbp depending on where you look it up.
  • 1 0
 your not getting it jumpman2334, the US price isn't simply converted, as a general rule of thumb if you put a £ where the $ is on the RRP you will get the UK price, trade price on 34's and 36's in the UK is over £700 once VAT is added!!

here you go
www.tweekscycles.com/components/suspension-forks/fox-racing-shox-34-float-26-160-ctd-adj-fit-suspension-forks-black-1-5-tapered-15qr

convert that back to US$
  • 1 0
 oh, i see what you mean.. god damn, thats pricey
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