Fox have always been renowned for their performance but not for their light weight. For 2010 this is set to change with their all new F-series cross country fork. The cornerstone of this is the totally new FIT damping cartridge which results in a more consistent performance across the fork stroke.

Fox describe it as “The FIT damper uses a unique bladder design, which provides the lowest possible friction for a sealed damper, reduces fluid aeration for enhanced suspension consistency, and reduces unsprung weight for faster wheel response and increased steering precision.”  On the trail this translates as buttery smooth travel with a great progressive spring rate.

The fork has gone on a major diet too with machined crowns, lowers and the lighter FIT cartridge and it is now a very competitive 1.43kg (3.15lb), a saving of almost 200 grams on last years model.

Available in either regular quick-release or a bolt thru 15mm QR we tested the 15mm QR version of the fork. This proved a revelation in testing with a much more refined performance. The fork rides directly through an obstacle as it does not twist or flex (you won’t realize how much it does until you ride a 15mm QR). The fork tracks straight over everything giving the performance of a downhill fork in terms of tracking yet retaining the lightweight of a cross country fork. We think this is the future!  Indeed it saved our necks a few times where we entered a technical section too fast and fully expected to wipe out yet held the line as the front wheel doesn’t deflect or slide out.  The quick release is quick and easy to operate and there is no nut to fall off and lose.

In terms of upgrading bear in mind that this requires a 15mm front hub but some wheel sets such as Mavic’s SLR will fit straight away once an adapter is removed.  Once you ride 15mm QR you won’t go back we guarantee.  We like this so much that we have been finding any excuse not to give it back to Fox and seeing as it’s James O’Carroll’s personal fork that’s a brave move!

The fork can be fitted with the Shimano/Fox developed lockout which is one of the best on the market. Overall we think this is a top fork. The 15mm QR is outstanding and the new FIT cartridge is amazing. Performance wise this is hard to beat, highly recommended.

Available from The Cycle Inn and OC Tuning. RRP €665 (regular QR) €849 (15mmQR).