RockShock Pike RCT3 vs Fox Factory Series 34 Float 120mm

[Dots]

I am considering one of these two forks. Pike after adjusting to 120mm travel appears to be +/-R2000 cheaper than the Fox which is the latest 2016 release. Would like to get input from the Hubbers on these 2 forks.

[Skylark]

Probably the Pike without a doubt, well especially if it's R2k cheaper.

[Patensie]

Can't comment on the Fox, but I love my Pike.

[JXV]

The new 2016 Factory Series 34 is supposed to be a vast improvement on the old one.   

Some reviews have it marginally better than or at least as good as the Pike. 

 

I have the older version 2014 of the fox and very happy with it.   Small bump compliance is not the greatest at low speed but it all works great once the pace picks up.    the CTD system has  given way in the 2016 model to a new damper cartridge with adjustability in the Open mode, much like the RCT3 system.   The new fox is also 200 g lighter than before.

 

However if the Pike is R2k cheaper.......and it might be cheaper to service as well......

Both are premium forks and I don't think you can go wrong either way.

[(Deon)]

agree, with the sentiment above. I am a "Fox man" (granted, I don't own the CTD) but unless 200g and a slight improvement over the Pike is worth R2000, it does not make financial sense to go with the Fox. 

[NicoBoshoff]

Just out of interest, if you are going to run it at 120mm, is there a reason you aren't looking to the RS Revelation?  It's a brilliant bit of kit and cheaper still than the Pike.

[Captain Fastbastard Mayhem]

Just out of interest, if you are going to run it at 120mm, is there a reason you aren't looking to the RS Revelation?  It's a brilliant bit of kit and cheaper still than the Pike.

Charger damper, I'd imagine. 

[Odinson]

From what I've read, some reviewers are saying that the 2016 FOX 34 (Factory Series) is equal to or better than the Pike (RTC3). Can't personally comment. 

 

First prize would be to personally test both forks and then make a decision. But ja, a potential R2k saving is huge. The FOX would have to earn that premium, if it's my money I'm spending. 

[Robbow]

My money is on the PIKE, for a few reasons.

 

I have one on my PYGA and it is incredible.

 

As stated the small bump compliance is really good and the current FOX Factory (granted less travel) I have on my other bike is far more twitchy over the small sketchy stuff.

 

Just as important though is that the FOX comes from OMNICO, and dont even get me started on how useless they have proven to be.

 

The PIKE is really very good, and this is coming from someone who has always prefered FOX. Would recommend it anyday.

[Iwan Kemp]

2016 Fox 34 is great. However

1. It's really only just been launched. The pike has got a couple of years under it's belt and has proven itself plenty reliable
2. The Pike is cheaper
3. The Pike is easier to service
4. RS usually needs less TLC than Fox

On top of that I'd say Nico does have a point with the Rev at 120mm. Charger damper is worth the money, but the Rev is one mighty fine fork. What bike is this for?

[Dots]

Thanks for all the brilliant input. I have a Santa Cruz Tallboy which currently has a 34 110-140mm Talas fork but the Talas portion never really work from the start ending up the majority of time with a 140mm fork that is too much for the dynamics of the Tallboy. I can share the centiment re Omnico as I am waiting for a warrentee replacement of my frame since April.....All that I am getting told lately is they will phone me when it is here....Defintely something to consider.....

Few of my friends have the Pike and they all very happy.....currently I am leaning towards the Pike

[Brawler]

Pike!

[popcorn_skollie]

Just out of interest, if you are going to run it at 120mm, is there a reason you aren't looking to the RS Revelation?  It's a brilliant bit of kit and cheaper still than the Pike.

or you could wait for the Yari, also motion control damper. But with beefier pipes