Review: X-Fusion Trace 36 HLR Fork

Jul 17, 2018
by Daniel Sapp  
Review X-Fusion Trace 36 HLR Fork


Coming on board with RockShox, Fox, Ohlins, and others, X-Fusion now has a longer travel and heavier duty 29'er trail fork. Mike Levy gave it a good first look at Interbike this past year and over the last few months, several of us have passed one around and put some heavy miles on it to see how it performed.

Until this point, X-Fusion's Trace name was paired with their 34mm stanchion suspension. While the new fork shares the Trace name, it has been built and designed from the ground up with 36mm stanchions, a new chassis, new damper, and internally adjustable travel. The Trace 36 is made
Trace 36 HLR Details
• Air spring
• 140-170mm internally adjustable travel
• 36mm stanchions
• Boost-110x15mm
• Offset: 51mm
• Axle-to-crown: 581mm at 170mm
• Weight: 4.4lbs
• MSRP: $899 USD
www.xfusionshox.com
for aggressive trail riding and made to compete with offerings from more well known brands. The 36 HLR features externally adjustable high and low-speed compression as well as low-speed rebound. Traction is managed by X-Fusion's Roughcut damper. The 36 HLR, as tested, sells for $899 USD.

X-Fusion Roughcut damper Taipei 2015
X-Fusion Roughcut damper


Construction

The Trace 36 is a new design for X-Fusion. Rather than beefing up or paring down what they already had, they started from scratch. According to the engineers, they used a type of reverse FEA analysis to determine where and how much material was needed in the construction. Finite Element Analysis, is a computerized simulation that predicts how a product will perform, wear out, or fail over time when exposed to stress. The powerful software helped X-Fusion narrow down exactly how much and where material was needed in the chassis to get the strength, weight, and performance numbers for the 36 HLR fork.

There is an all-new crown, new lowers, and a self-adjusting negative air spring that automatically matches the positive spring pressure (so it's not manually adjustable). Accessing the air spring for token insertion or removal is done via a cassette tool. The fork's travel can be adjusted internally via X-Fusion's ITA push-pin system on the air rod.

Managing traction is X-Fusion's Roughcut damper. It has external high and low-speed compression, and low-speed rebound control. The damper uses an expanding bladder to handle oil displacement and provide some back-pressure to limit cavitation. The entire cartridge is sealed and can be removed without needing a full fork rebuild.

The fork sports an axle-to-crown distance of 581mm when it's at the full 170mm ride height. It has ample clearance for more than a 29x2.6 tire, and weighs around 4.4 pounds, depending on how much steerer tube you've chopped off. There are also a couple of mounts on the backside of the arch for a bolt-on fender. The 15x110mm axle is a bolt on style.

Review X-Fusion Trace 36 HLR Fork
The air spring is accessed via a cassette tool.
Review X-Fusion Trace 36 HLR Fork
Plenty of room for 2.6" tires.

Review X-Fusion Trace 36 HLR Fork
Review X-Fusion Trace 36 HLR Fork
36mm uppers and stout lowers offer plenty of stiffness.


Performance

I started riding the Trace 36 a couple of months ago after two other testers had already been on it. I set the air spring and dialed in the compression and rebound settings - (My weight is around 150 pounds) I ran 60psi, with three clicks of LSC and two of HSC in (from open) which seemed to be perfect for about everything I rode. I moved the rebound around a little bit depending on the day and the trail, but it generally stayed in the range of 14-15 clicks in.

The fork feels smooth and supported through its travel. It feels consistent for longer high-speed descents. The top of the travel was sensitive to small bumps, roots, rocks, and then supportive in the middle, while progressive with a good amount of ramp-up towards the end. I was using all of the travel, but a harsh bottom out was extremely rare. In rougher terrain, the Trace 36 feels composed, especially while riding in the mid-part of its travel. I never once questioned the capabilities of the fork or felt as if I was riding it in a manner it wasn't intended for or pushing past what the damper wanted to do. I always had traction when I needed it.

Putting it next to another competitor, the Trace 36 feels and acts a lot like a RockShox Pike from a couple of years ago, except with much better small-bump sensitivity. The fork is smooth - far more than I initially expected. I've ridden it in a variety of conditions, mostly wet and muddy, and the seals seem to be holding up well. I haven't noticed any change in performance over time so, durability wise, things seem to be right where they should be.

All in all, I was very impressed with the Trace 36 and plan to keep riding it for a while longer. It checks all of the boxes and works extremely well. I'm curious to see how things hold up over even longer periods of time.

Review X-Fusion Trace 36 HLR Fork
Holding composure in roots, rocks, and turns.


Issues

I couldn't find much of anything I would call an issue on this fork. It works well. The one thing I did notice was that the compression adjustment knobs feel a bit loose and cheap. Having a knob fall off or lose its engagement is one of those 50 cent issues that can cause major problems and frustrations. I'm curious to see how durable they are longer term, although, at this point, the fork has been passed around between our crew for several months now with no problems, so while I mention it, I'm also not overly concerned.

Review X-Fusion Trace 36 HLR Fork
The compression knob mounting doesn't feel like it is as high of quality or "put together" as the rest of the fork but after a few months, they still function as they should.


Pros

+ Price
+ Performs well
+ Simple to set up
Cons

- Compression knobs don't feel overly robust
- People may be scared of anything not branded "RockShox or Fox"



Pinkbike's Take
bigquotesThe Trace 36 is a solid performing fork for the price, and competes well against similar offerings from the bigger brands. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone looking for a quality fork in the aggressive 29er trail bike category.Daniel Sapp






Author Info:
danielsapp avatar

Member since Jan 18, 2007
476 articles

160 Comments
  • 143 8
 Come on PB, is that necessary?

"Cons
-People may be scared of anything not branded "RockShox or Fox" "
  • 55 0
 That's because they couldn't think of anything else and one con seemed too little, I guess...
  • 33 1
 I thought that it's an obvious joke.
  • 69 0
 Maybe it would help if their company slogan was:

"We also make products for Öthers Wink "
  • 23 1
 I would say it's a fair assessment for when/if you decide to sell it, the amount of times I've had people refuse to buy anything that their expert MTB friend hadn't listed as a "good" brand is insane.
  • 19 0
 What kind of people are scared of other brands? Brand whores?
  • 14 1
 @Bike078: Mostly people new to the sport, maybe even 1-2 bikes in. They stick to what their mates tell them, no matter how wrong it is.
  • 4 0
 Probably true.
  • 6 0
 Shhh! let them! Plenty of cheap barely used forks to buy from "upgraders" Smile
  • 4 0
 is the unicorn already avaialble (a.k.a Revel) ????????????????????/
  • 7 0
 People hesitate because these expensive parts no matter what. And i think that makes people hesitate since they havent heard of the name too much. But still, ive heard good storys about Xfusion. they seem to just work really well and theyre easy to set up. But the part availability of Rockshox is unbeatable. just about every bike shop that sells mtb's has parts for those. and that also counts.
  • 4 1
 @Bike078: Many people. I've always been on Fox, not that it's a religion, just happened to be. I've never used a rockshox fork/shock and although some get rave review I'd be reluctant to buy a bike with RS suspension. You can see that as " confidence" in a brand. Same is ofter the case with tire manufacturers.
  • 5 0
 @Bike078: been riding bikes with some people for 10 years or more, many of them would not buy anything that is not fox/rs. On the other hand I'm super happy with Manitou Minute I've found for 80€ on ebay...
  • 15 2
 I think it's a fair point. Try selling this second hand after 2 years vs a pike, lyrik or 36. Could be the best fork in the world, but if it doesn't have the name, it'll struggle to some degree.
  • 8 0
 Several long-time riders I know stick to the big brands because 1) they’re a known quantity, and 2) because of downtime and parts availability. Something goes wrong with a RS or Fox component, and it’s very likely you’ll quickly find the spare parts and/or a competent mechanic nearby. Not nearly as likely with the smaller brands, could involve shipping it off, more expense, etc.
  • 2 0
 I think it's legit, especially if you don't do your own service, since a lot of local shops won't work on forks that aren't Fox or RS. My friend had an Ohlins, couldn't find anyone local willing to service it and became super expensive having to ship it off when needed.
  • 16 1
 At 35, my knob doesn't feel overly robust..... but I wouldn't say that's a con
  • 8 1
 Sorry, I've never met anyone who was afraid of something other than RS or Fox. In fact there was a time when people wouldn't touch a RockShox fork, there was a time when people didn't want Fox (CTD) forks, a bad few years for Marzocchi, some other bad years for Manitou suspension, the list goes on. As for spares and service, if your shop can service Fox then they can probably also service a current Marzocchi fork. And Suntour is so big, you can probably get parts everywhere. Once again, it may be different where the author is from, but in my experience people trust most modern brands. Even Suntour is right up there now. Maybe RST not quite yet.
  • 9 7
 We all know PB gets checks from RockShox and Fox!
  • 2 0
 @Lagr1980: The Unicorn has been available for a long time, if you know where to get them.
  • 3 0
 Seems like X-Fusion has been around long enough to not need such comment.
  • 6 1
 @zephxiii: Absolutely. And with the proliferation of DVO, Cane Creek, Manitou making a very successful comeback with the Mattoc, MRP's success....I think this guy is stuck back in like 2010 or something.
  • 9 3
 @zephxiii: and add to that, that Rockshox puts out a lot of junk. 2 of my 3 Pike's developed major Creek inside a year of riding. My girlfriends last 2 bikes came with a 2017 revelation and a new 2018 pike. The Rev lasted 2 rides before the air spring exploded. Warrant. The Pike, she got one weekend on and the charger cartridge was spewing oil out of the top from under the adjusters. It's in its 4th week of warranty. 1 weekend riding, so far, 4 weekends out of service in warranty. Poor performance from 2 brand new forks. For me #AnythingButRockshox
  • 9 1
 @zephxiii: oh, actually. Add to that, the issue where her SRAM brakes pump up and lock out in the heat on the same bike as the Rev. And the part where SRAM new it was an issue but would only do the brake that acted up. So one brake went, they warranty it. Then on a seperate occasion the other goes, they warranty it. 3 warranty jobs due to SRAM junk in the first couple months of ownership - the bike spent more time in service than on the trail!
#anythingbutsram

Afraid of thing that are not RS or Fox? Lol. I am afraid of anything RS or SRAM!
  • 3 0
 I had some issues selling a bike with the vengeance hlr. Amazing fork, but the fact that it wasn't a 36 or a pike made people look away. I had offers to sell without the fork many times
  • 5 0
 @kiddlivid: that's a shame. The HLR rough-cut damper is definitely better than what's in the Pike in my opinion. At least the older charger dampers. Much more reliable, and tunable without having to dive into the damper.
  • 2 0
 The only reason I would be hesitant to buy one of these over RS or Fox is a feeling there is a lack of aftermarket support. I could be wrong though cause I’ve never really looked. My Pike is pretty much a RS product by name alone, the charger damper failed and was replaced by an Avalanche open bath, the air piston is Vorpsrung, throw in an MRP ramp control and I’ve pretty much replaced every major piece except for the chassis. Would I buy a bike with an X-Fusion suspension, sure, why not, as long as I could find upgraded replacement parts I would be happy regardless of the name on the side of the fork.
  • 4 0
 @Gills: Avalanche does X-fusion fork modification also - HLR cartridge revalves. And I know S4 in Canada does a lot of custom work with X-fusion. No doubt, the aftermarket support is there if you need it. I have no doubt Vorsprung and Suspensionworks will also service them. And if course, X-fusion is also responsive to customer inquiry directly.

Nice thing about X-fusion is the dampers, at least the upper end ones, don't just fail, or suffer chronic performance decline like the older Pike carts.
  • 3 0
 @FLATLlNE:

That sucks, fatline! I was a little nervous going to a dual position Lyrik last year, due to the additional complexity of travel adjust forks, fortunately after almost 100 hours (& 1 lower leg service) it's still great.

Agree on brakes, haven't tried the full featured Guides/Codes but swapped out my Guide Rs for Hopes. No brainer there.
  • 2 0
 @WasatchEnduro: It does. I would chalk is up to bad luck if it were 1 or 2 products, but it's been quite a few products for us. Big failure rate. 4 out of 5 forks, and 2 of 2 brakes. Absolutely discouraging to buy a new bike and have it live its first couple months sitting in the shop under warranty, too. And the worst part is Rockshox don't care. "Deal with your shop". And the shop will tell you they (SRAM) don't listen to the feedback. They are just a big soulless company.
  • 1 0
 @FLATLlNE: this lol. MRP Manitou, anything but the big two.
  • 6 0
 @FLATLlNE: yep

" the Trace 36 feels and acts a lot like a RockShox Pike from a couple of years ago"

with no further elaboration is extremely suspect. we can say its good, but if we say it's TOO good, it might threaten our ad dollars and we don't want to do that.

you want real reviews you gotta listen to Just Riding Along on Mountainbike Radio i guess.
  • 8 0
 @mm732:

Funny thing is, I don't think the HLR feels like the Pike from a few years ago. Especially after a significant amount of hard riding, when the Pike gets airated and goes to utter crap. And who wants to continuously bleed their fork?

1 piece crown and steer also helps them not creak like a Pike! Not a single mention of that in the review.
  • 2 0
 @FLATLlNE: I had an X-Fusion Slide, it was good and proper.
  • 3 0
 @jollyXroger: That's a good one bruh. Somebody form the Öthers company should contac't you.
  • 2 0
 @vinay: Forsure, my Suntour Auron rips...it's a tad heavier then a Pike, but I think it performs just as good if not better.
  • 2 0
 @mm732: agreed.
  • 1 0
 @Waldon83: wait till your stanchion hits 36!
  • 1 0
 @Lagr1980: revels are in stock at the us and European service centers. Give Lemon Shox in Germany a call if you are serious.
  • 3 0
 @siruz: I'll be honest, I've noticed a real loss in performance since I was about 32, even with 'regular servicing' intervals.
  • 3 0
 @iian: nailed it. It's definitely relevant for resale value
  • 2 0
 @leelau: which is silly. Mountain bikers are so brand and marketing obsessed. To the point of being self conscious of riding anything untrendy. Pike's are definitely perceived as more trendy than any X-fusion, even though some X-fusion are definitely a better fork than the last gen Pike. I can't say anything about the new one, but I owned 3 of the last gen and can say with certainty the HLR dampers are more dependable, more tunable, and perform at least as well.

But it's great. For those in the know, and who care more about function than fashion so to speak, they are great deals to be had on X-fusion.
  • 1 0
 @FLATLlNE: agreed. But it is relevant for sellers. And careful buyers
  • 1 0
 @leelau: It is, sure, if resale value is a concern. I would rather better bang for the buck and higher performance up front, myself, rather than worrying about selling a bike in 2-3 years.
  • 2 0
 Everything's the same though. Cars, bikes etc. Name matters massively. The day you buy is the day you sell.
  • 2 0
 @iian: Unless you buy a bike to really use. Mean, resale value is nice, but I'm not going to baby my bike and pander to trends at the expense of performance.

I'm buying this thing to smash into rocks and stumps, and keep my aboard until the end of my ride intact. Not to park at the coffee shop with a fresh coat of wax on the frame.
  • 1 0
 Definitely surprised (and I think encouraged?) that so many people dont see brand as a barrier to entry with a fork like this. But its idealistic and foolish to believe that people dont buy with brand in mind. Fox and Rock Shox dominate over 80% of bikes and its all branding preference.
  • 1 1
 @jday283: No, Fox and RS have a strong position because of their OEM offerings. Especially SRAM can offer a huge component package to a frame manufacturer which does become interesting when they're building for a particular pricepoint (which most complete bikes are). And I suspect Fox has teamed up with Shimano so that's a huge package too. Technically Hayes could be this big too but they only have a gearbox (PeteSpeed) they bought from BeOne but they just sit on it. Suntour too, they have a gearbox but it is never going to make for a bike that will be sold at the pricepoint where people expect a Suntour fork. Not that they don't make high end fork. It is just that they also make cheaper forks (cheaper than Fox and RS do) so that may have given them the image. But really, it is not five or ten years ago anymore. Look around. We really see loads of elite teams riding with X-Fusion and Suntour forks. It is pretty diverse now compared to a few years ago. In fact, the teams with the IMHO most interesting component selection very often don't ride with Fox or RockShox. And the same goes with complete bikes in the higher end spectrum. Lots of Formula, DVO, Cane Creek suspension.
  • 1 0
 @jday283: I would bet suntour has far more market than you give them credit for the majority of bikes purchased are not super bikes.
  • 68 6
 i hate that i have to google lbs to kg every other pb article
  • 10 6
 work it out in your head.
  • 3 2
 Spend more time on PB and get used to the conversions!
  • 3 4
 try Opera browser
  • 24 0
 just remember 453.592g = 1 lb!
  • 6 2
 @zephxiii: or 2.2lbs is 1000 grams
  • 2 1
 If you use a linux or Apple computer, open a bash shell (terminal) and type "units". It will help you with the conversion. If you've got a cellphone, it may also have a function. My five or six year old Nokia 108 also has a unit converter. If you've got a more complex phone, it may be more complex to find that function.

@zephxii: Your memory is impressive Wink ! I usually just use 454g=1lb (or 2lb=0.9kg if I'm lazy). Should be fine for starters.
  • 30 0
 You can practice your math by selling drugs
  • 7 0
 @Mntneer: FTFY
You can practice your meth by selling drugs
  • 8 0
 @Poulsbojohnny: you can practice your drugs by doing meth.
  • 1 0
 @poah: i can do it pretty much for big things like cars etc where 10kgs up or down doesnt matter. but for bike components its more important to convert it properly
  • 1 0
 @vinay: yesh the way @zephxii can remember how to type into google is amazing,
  • 32 0
 So the fork doesnt really have any downsides besides brand-snobbery?
My Vengeance HLR out-performs nearly all 170mm forks and is a lot older. Yeah it weights more but who cares about some grams on a freeride fork?
X-Fusion HLR/Roughcut for performance and good price.
  • 5 0
 Another Vengeance rider and it's a keeper, works smooth all the time even if you neglect it. It replaced a 36 RC2. Liked it so much got the 34 Slant for a wife.
  • 1 0
 @brigand: oh yeah- as there is no other Coil freeride fork out there nothing comes close.
Only downside is the tire cleareance with 650b.
Maybe Ill get a Metric and upgrade it to coil... must be heaven.
But for now im set this season...its Marzocchi-smooth
  • 6 0
 Another Vengeance HLR here, 26 aint dead though so no problems with clearance!
  • 5 0
 I had a Vengeance coil years ago and I still regard it is the best fork I've ever ridden.
  • 1 0
 @forteh: I ride the Vengeance with my Kaiser - Not even a cm cleareance but I cant give up the performance
  • 1 0
 @NotNamed: Got a 26x2.4 Trail King in there without much hassle admittedly the Kaiser is a touch wider/squarer on the shoulders and if you're on 650b then it's going to be tight. IIRC the Vengeance was never intended to be a 650b fork was it?
  • 1 0
 @forteh: I've fitted HR2 2.4x27.5 and Wildrock'r in 2.35x27.5 both with mudguard. Mitas Highlander in 2.45x27.5 was a very tight fit so had to sell it. m.pinkbike.com/photo/15017362

m.pinkbike.com/photo/14517606
  • 2 0
 Completely agree. I had a Vengeance HLR and it’s the best feeling fork I’ve ever had. I didn’t like the bike it was on so I sold it, but I regret not keeping the fork. I have a Fox 36 Van coil fork that is really good, but I’d take the Vengeance over the Fox. I hope X-Fusion stays in the game and rises to the top. I would definitely consider their products when I’m in the market for new suspension.
  • 3 0
 @NotNamed:

Have a metric hlr roughcut. Ordered from my distributor a coil spring and assembly for just 100 Euro and let a friend make a custom shimming for 50 bugs. Killer fork. With 25 percent sag in attack Position, so smooth and supportive and great traction and control.
Only problem is a want to change from 27.5 to 29.if someone would like to buy my perfectly working metric I d go and change to trace 36 immediately
  • 2 0
 @brigand: how close am I to losing shit with XFusion service, this close www.pinkbike.com/photo/14517606
  • 4 0
 @brigand: hahaha "for a wife" how many you got sir??
  • 5 0
 Well they did send me a used fork when I ordered my HLR. I called to see what the deal was, and the said, "Don't worry it's covered under full warranty. We just don't have any new ones in stock so we sent you a refurb." At full price. No warning. That's a con.
  • 2 0
 @novajustin: you can tell English is not my first language Big Grin
  • 3 0
 @brigand: i thought it was funny lol
  • 4 0
 @novajustin: one is just as much as i can handle lol
  • 1 0
 @bansaiman: haha I know (Im thinking about buying your fork - Im also at mtb-news Forum...I think you can guess my username Wink
  • 1 0
 @NotNamed:
You are welcome :-)
  • 1 0
 That's how i got mine: secondhand of mtb_news Smile
  • 3 0
 Just to add some contrast, my experience was completely different with the Vengeance HLR. It spent more time back at X-Fusion than it did on my bike. I went through 3 different sets of uppers and 2 different air springs for various reasons. I never felt like their customer service was shooting me straight on the issues. Always a glutton for punishment, i repeated my mistake by buying one of their HiLo seatpost which lasted about half a season and 2 trips back to xfusion before I abandoned it. These were both bout 6-8 years ago , so hoepfully things have improved.
  • 1 0
 @NotNamed:
No interest anymore?
  • 24 3
 The only problem is they're no longer affordable. When Pike came out, within a year or two you could get it for 300-500 euros in the EU.

Now 900 for an Xfusion? With much smaller service network and limited supply parts. You can get fox or rs parts virtually anywhere.

Who actually pays MRSP for bike parts? You're more likely to get Fox or RS cheaper than Xfusion.
  • 7 0
 sad but true. Im even struggling to find a dealer for this fork
  • 8 0
 @chainzuck: ever since xfusion closed their shop in Santa Cruz customer service, parts and pretty much anything to do with them has taken a dive off the deep end. Closest service center is some guy in Reno that really dose not seem to care. Couldn't get any straight answer out of him. Seems to not sell rebuild kits for droppers and just all around not helpful. Been on xfusion droppers and 3 forks but now I'm running fox. Fox service is now better.
Xfusion service was top notch when they were in Santa Cruz.
  • 2 0
 @brncr6: Oh no...I didn't know they closed the shop in CA. I had a few X Fusion forks and they were always super easy to deal with and get things sorted out with a phone call. Knowing this there is definitely less appeal to buy a new one
  • 2 0
 While it's true that no one pays MRSP, your argument that the MRSP is too high cannot stand because no one pays it anyways. My guess is the saving over the likes of rock shox or fox will effectively stay the same in real world prices.
  • 1 0
 @brncr6: yep. And because of that I'm done with xfusion. There guy in Reno is helpful enough but he doesn't get reimbursed to do anything above and beyond the terms of his contract with xfusion.
  • 1 1
 @chainzuck:

Call lemonshox in Germany. You ll probably get it there. Otherwise a mail to Iron stable in Taiwan but they usually only sell for the dollars mrsp
  • 2 0
 @brncr6: closing up shop did it for us too!
  • 2 0
 @brncr6: Yeah, Santa Cruz service center should be back..
  • 19 2
 Honestly I think part of the problem is that the name “X-Fusion” just sounds like something you would find on a suspension fork you order of Ali Express. Some sort of rebrand to a name that doesn’t sound like “brand x” would really help them. The graphics could use an update too. Just doesn’t feel like a top end brand.

Also not helping them is that you can get Fox and SRAM stuff so cheap online it’s hard to justify taking a chance on X-Fusion. Öhlins has the motorsports heritage to fall back on that makes people think it’s premium. MRP is made in America. X-Fusion is...

They should also get them in to the hands of local rippers who aren’t jerks (good luck finding them) because another big problem is they people just don’t see the product. I think a lot of people don’t see them on bikes so they assume there must be something wrong.
  • 9 0
 Agree. Same for SR Suntour - their products actually look good, but sounds like a mass-market holiday package tour operator....
  • 2 1
 A couple seasons ago I actually offered to rework the graphics FOR FREE for X Fusion because they are continually that bad. Just... bad. I was even in touch with a guy from their company--never took me up on it. Assured me that there were 'way more factors that had to be considered' than most people realize when it comes to colors, etc. I explained that I worked in marketing as was familiar with branding, but was, in short, dismissed.

If they didn't want to go with a full-on name change, just drop the damn "X" and move the name to "Fusion". When I was in bike shops, people didn't even understand how to pronounce the name, which is a branding fail. Fusion, with marginally better graphics, same price point, same performance = you just dominated the mountain bike market for MY2020.
  • 1 0
 but Brian Lopes! Smile
  • 1 0
 I ride a brand X ascend dropper and its been more reliable then any of the big names I've used and has lasted longer.
  • 20 0
 X fusion = the new marzocchi. Cheaper, bomb proof and supple as hell.
  • 1 0
 Yes,they are nice forks but a PITA to service...parts in there seem to be made out of high tech cheese Big Grin
  • 15 2
 Come on guys. Even the old XFusion HLR Damper (Vengeance times) was better than the normal Charger damper from RockShox. With the HLR you can tune the forks HSC adequately to rider weight, riding style and terrain, while the HSC of the Pike was always crappy and you could only choose between that blow through the travel setting, that too hard still blow through on higher speeds setting and that lock out that's not really good for anything.
I haven't ridden the Roughcut damper but i hear that it's a decent improvement over the old one, so that comparison seems a little bit fishy to me.
But anyways, still a good review and decent rating for XFusion
  • 6 0
 I know, my HLR hugely outperformed friends Boxxer.
  • 3 0
 Agreed and no cheap internals.
  • 1 0
 @Br4inm4n I agree. and even the cheap RL2 was set and forget, smooth and reliable... Had a Sweep that after selling it couple years ago, is still shredding hard..
  • 7 0
 How can it’s not rockshox or fox be a con. Surely having the same performance (as viewed form a average rider) at a lower price point is only a good thing
  • 10 4
 It's not a con from a performance standpoint. It's purely from the "buyer-hesitation" perspective. People can be hesitant to spend money on a product that isn't from a more major manufacturer at times and they shouldn't be hesitant with this fork.
  • 4 0
 @danielsapp: I see the point you're making there, and I think it's legitimate, but do you mention that as a con when you review a dvo or ohlins fork?

I've been on a trace 34 rl2 for 2 years, and its been absolutely trouble free. Sad to hear their service has taken a dive.
  • 4 0
 Looks good. I had a Trace previous and that was a great trouble free fork. I saw this advertised on this site recently and went looking to all the usual places to try and potentially buy one (online) as I'm looking for a new fork.

Problem is they don't seem to be anywhere...

@X-fusion - hook me up.
  • 4 0
 I have 3 different X-Fusion products on 2 very different bikes: the O2 on my wife's trailbike, the Vengeance Coil and the Vector RC on my freeride bike. 5 years of use, semi-regular service, running smooth without issues. I think, small bump sensitivity is something that the X-Fusions have dialed. For example, having compared the Vengenace Coil against a Boxxer coil version on the same trail, I think the X-Fusion performs much better. So overall I think they are doing a great job with their products and there is zero reason to be afraid of the "unfamiliar" label. They are good enough for every average Joe.
  • 5 0
 hey folks ! for everyone from Germany and Europe who want some good x-Fusion Stuff ask Lemonshox www.lemonshox.com the European Service Center Cheers
  • 1 0
 Yeah youre good Guys!
  • 2 0
 Should have an english website as an "european" distributer Wink ...just sayin
  • 4 1
 X fusion really suck. I'm sorry, their products are more than decent, but not having service instructions or support regarding tuning or reparations, or spare parts forces you to send the product directly to xfusion for the most stupid thing,or you will void the warranty. Then you have to wait for as long as they feel like sending it back to you, and of course a big invoice attached...LEARN from manitou in this aspect. This is the main reason for me for not to buying your products again, and this is why your products will never sell well enough. I didnt even take the time to read the article...
  • 3 0
 Well, I love my Sweep, and I would pick them over Pike or Fox 34 any day. It needed no service for 2 and half years, while I am riding almoust every day, and it was trouble free. Their customer support is little bit f***ed up, but you can service them at home, or at LBS who know what are they doing. Love the forks, would recommend to anyone.
  • 4 0
 Cons: no 20 mill axle for a slightly heavier weight with a greater feeling of confidence.
All this talk about stiffer platforms and everyone wants to save 10 grams going to a smaller axle!
  • 2 0
 I owned a Sweep with the RL2 damper on a Banshee V2 spitfire for 3 years. The damper was never the problem on that bike, it was the chassis. At 6'4 and 220 lbs that fork would not support me properly, it flexed on the ups and flexed on the downs. It became very difficult to hold a line with confidence. I'm sure everything has "changed" but I have moved onto another brand.
  • 2 0
 now take this chassis and turn it into a 27.5 fork please!! i would FOR SURE rock a 4.4lb x-fusion fork. but the metric weighing in at 5+lbs just bums me out. i've been too spoiled by the lightness of fox/rs. miss the vengeance i had on my 26r. best fork i've ever ridden.
  • 1 0
 I recently pulled the trigger on an hlr sweep and was struck by it's impressive mid support and small bump suppleness straight out of the box. A very tunable fork. Coming from a Fox 32 150 which isn't really a comparison there is no doubt i made the right decision on xfusion.
  • 1 0
 I have thus far enjoyed my experience with X-Fusion's products (Sweep fork and O2 shock). I have found them to be easy to tune, consistent and very durable. I have found their maintenance intervals (self-assessed) a lot longer than RS or Marzocchi. For riders who want control but not overwhelming amounts of attention required; for the price point I can't recommend them enough.

But I'm still waiting on a review of the Revel! Come on PB twist their arm Wink
  • 1 0
 Hi, I have an XFusion Trace36 but the RC version which is with sealed cartridge which is not repairable.

Do any of you know or have done any hydraulic cartridge swaps?

I was thinking of buying a cartridge from a sr suntour durolux type RC PSC.

But I am not sure of its compatibility.

Regards
  • 1 0
 Hi, I have an XFusion Trace36 but the RC version which is with sealed cartridge which is not repairable.

Do any of you know or have done any hydraulic cartridge swaps?

I was thinking of buying a cartridge from a sr suntour durolux type RC PSC.

But I am not sure of its compatibility.

Regards
  • 1 0
 "People may be scared of anything not branded "RockShox or Fox""....One thing I'd say about that statement is I think of a bicycle kind of like a power suit (like a super hero wears). It gives you added powers, you're not going to look at it, and go, "I only use designer power suits; pssshhh", you're happy to have a power suit! Also, what's your end goal? I don't think your fork brand is going to get you there.
  • 2 0
 Hey people... You may want to try other brands such as DVO , Xfusion , MRP and Cane Creek. You may be surprised that they are just as good or even better than those other 2 brands .
  • 2 1
 And they may not be either!
  • 1 0
 @MX298: If you haven’t tried them you wouldn’t know .
  • 1 0
 @THE-GUNT: my son’s and I have try three of those you listed and some you didn’t and the fox 36 is hard to beat!
  • 1 0
 All great forks. Can’t go wrong with the new fox 36 or new pike. I prefer the DVO Diamond over all of them and have no plans on switching . @MX298:
  • 1 0
 FWIW, I had a Trace (34) on a previous bike and it was excellent. Smooth, plush, lots of adjustments and gave me zero problems during the time that I owned it. I would not hesitate to buy another.
  • 1 0
 I am hesitant to X-Fusion after owning a X-Fusion Slant RL2. It was so rigid and notchy that it was almost unusable. When I switched to a 7 year old Marzocchi coil fork it was like night and day.
  • 1 0
 Bought the Mcqueen Roughcut version of this fork and it's really good, especially as brand new it cost the same as a second hand Pike.
  • 1 0
 Had a McQueen myself. Great fork. Was the best I had ever ridden until I tried a Mattoc Pro.
  • 2 0
 Very nice forks, wonder how they would feel compared to the durolux I have, if were talking about a well priced fork
  • 1 0
 im currently using metric HLR and I loved the mid support of this fork. Although, I dislike the initial stroke which is quite stiff.
  • 1 0
 Excellent review. I have been considering an X fusion Metric for a while - do Pinkbike have any plans on testing this in the near future? Cheers Beer
  • 2 0
 Get it- I had one.
Only real Freeride-fork out there... Yes a bit heavier but stiffer than 36/ Lyrik
Also with HLR /Roughcut you easily find your desired setup... Each click will be noticable.

Only watch out for the Onyx SC from DVO but Not available till winter Frown
  • 1 0
 @NotNamed: Thank you mate!
  • 1 0
 @c2crider: No Problem man... Look on ebay... Sometimes there a new Metrics for 400£... Less expensive than used Lyriks
  • 2 0
 I have a Metric set at 160mm. Best single crown fork I've used. Agree second hand they are a bargain, seen a couple for £350. Had a Pike before and the Metric is much better. And the Pike broke. Metric is heavier but it's totally worth the pay off.

Only issue I had was I cracked the pinch bolt. Was replaced under warranty easily. Not really sure how it happened as I'm almost certain I never over tightened. Maybe a crash or just bad luck, as couldn't see a single other example of it happening online.
  • 1 0
 @kiksy: it happened to some -only overtightended a small bit and it could Happen
  • 3 0
 would have liked a 200 pounder testing this fork.
  • 1 0
 Anyone looking for a direct mount fender for these, you can simply modify a syncros fox38 one. Check my stuff album for details.
  • 1 0
 I know its 27.5 vs 29er, but can you compare this to the Mattoc Pro that you guys tested @danielsapp
  • 1 0
 The X Fusion HLR cartridge not have in my market and ir very expensive than sr suntour.
  • 1 0
 Ive a X Fusion Vengeance coil and love it. No need for silly Fox/ Rockshox comments tho. Good read otherwise...
  • 2 0
 X-fusion! It's time to get new distributor in Poland. Move your asses!
  • 1 0
 Brand whores everywhere just dismiss anything positive in the review and pretend it never happened.
  • 1 0
 Every fork literally looks the same now. Rockshox’s, Fox’s performance, DVO, Öhlins, Cane Creek and now this!!!!!
  • 1 0
 @Daniel Sapp

Did you use volume Spacers and how many? What number is maximum?
  • 2 2
 I rode one of these on a test bike the other week, it was so good that I managed to disappear without a trace!
  • 1 0
 Nice to have a 170mm 29er fork, but I wanted coil.
  • 2 0
 You will probably be able to convert to coil with the coil assembly of the vengeance or rv1 coil for under 100 bucks incl. Spring. Just ask your x fusion distributor
  • 1 0
 Xfusion is prognarcore
  • 3 3
 No 27.5 ?
  • 1 0
 That is the Sweep or Metric
  • 1 0
 @Rhymer: 34mm stanchions and 20mm axle, respectively. I'd very much like this fork, but I guess my wheelsize isn't trendy enough
  • 2 3
 so Xfusion or SR Suntour- which one will suck less?
  • 2 4
 Stopped at "(so it's not manually adjustable)"
  • 7 0
 It automatically adjusts itself. This seems better for most riders.
  • 1 0
 This is similar to almost all currently available forks.
  • 1 1
 @acali: Doesnt mean its right. The IRT option on Manitou Mattoc Pro forks is worth its weight in gold. BUT with that said, I can see why they wouldn't offer it. Tune-able negative chambers can be very finicky to get setup and feeling right. They aren't a "set it and forget it at a certain recommended pressure" type of thing.
  • 2 0
 @RodneyPierce: IRT is not negative air chamber. IRT is second positive chamber, so the whole positive chamber becomes dual stage. Formula offers tunable negative air spring on thir Nero DH forks and maybe they will offer in also on Selva one day (IDK). DVO has the OTT preload - tunable negative coil spring.







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