XC MTB forks advice

[Zorro5614]

Hi guys

 

Looking for some advice on 100-120mm XC fork options.  Currently using a 2014 Fox Evolution CTD 100mm 29er.  Has some of you will know this fork is well known for is bad reviews with its damper issues.  I am currently looking at the following options and what my best choice will be.  The fork will be fitted to a lightweight carbon hardtail.  Remote lockout would be nice, but not the deciding factor.  Will be doing some trail riding, but I am a pretty cautions rider.

 

2018 Rockshox Reba RL 100mm (Remote lockout) R6 995 (1 650g)

https://www.evobikes.co.za/forks/2014rock-shox-reba-rl-solo-air-100-29-maxle15-black-pushloc-remote-tapered.html

 

2018 Rockshox Reba RL 120mm (Crown lockout) R7 395 (1680g)

https://www.evobikes.co.za/forks/2018-rockshox-reba-rl-solo-air-120mm-29-15-fork-tapered-steerer-crown-lockout.html

 

2017 Rockshox SID RLC 100mm (Remote lockout) R13 495 (1 530g)

https://www.evobikes.co.za/forks/new-2017-rockshox-sid-rlc-solo-air-100-29-15-black.html

 

2017 Rockshox SID XX 100mm (Remote lockout) R13 995 (1 570g)

https://www.evobikes.co.za/forks/rock-shox-sid-xx-solo-air-remote-29-tapered-15mm-fork-2014.html

 

2018 Rockshox SID WC 100mm (Remote lockout) R14 995 (1 440g)

https://www.evobikes.co.za/forks/rockshox-sid-29-xx-wc-with-hydraulic-lock-out.html

 

2018 Fox 32 Float SC Factory 100mm (Crown lockout) R13 995 (1 400g)

https://www.evobikes.co.za/forks/fox-racing-shox-32-float-sc-29-100-fit4-factory-51-offset-2018-black.html

 

I could have my current fork upgrade with the new FIT4 damper for R1 800, air upgrade for R1 000 and Kashima coating for R2 800.  So that is R5 600

 

Any advice would be appreciated.  Pricing can be a bit lower with Black Friday/Cyber Monday negotiations 

[Andrew_Smith]

I am a RockShox fanboy and love my Reba RLT (the older one with the dual air chambers).

 

Therefore I vote for the Reba RL 100mm, seeing as you are a cautious rider.

 

IMO, the price jump between the Reba and SID range is just massive for the weight that you are saving. Don't get me wrong, I would take a SID any day, but is worth it to fork out almost R15K? I will personally (if I had the money) get a Reba and a decent wheelset. 

 

If you are definitely wanting the extra travel, go for the Reba 120mm then.

[The_Phoenix]

The fox stepcast...crown lockout for me is 100%, I prefer to not have a cluttered cockpit. The fox ramps up a bit better IMO than the rockshox. But rockshox and fox is probably just preference.

 

Either the SID XX or the Fox 32 SC. Suspension is worth the spend.

[Zorro5614]

Reading some good things about the Fox SC and at 1 400g it is really light. The 3 settings on the crown is also nice.

 

Is it worth looking a boost option?

[RiverInTheRoad]

Nothing beats a Fox!

[BaGearA]

I've heard the Step cast an be quite flexy , personally I'd just upgrade your current fork ( maybe also replace the bushings )

[arendoog]

Nothing beats a Fox!

Have to agree .A well serviced Fox cannot be beaten 

[bullet77]

I recently fitted a DT Swiss OPM ODL fork about 1500g and has travel adjustable 120 to 140. It's also a 32mm stantion fork but much stiffer/stable than the Fox 32 Factory that it replaced. This fork changed/improved the front end of my bike. About R12k. Contact Robbie at RBC he has a world of knowledge regarding suspension. 

[Zorro5614]

Thanks for the reply guys

 

The Fox has come down to R11 895, the SID WC to R12 745 and the Reba RL is very tempting at only R6 370 

[dev null]

Don't bother with the Reba RL. I upgraded mine about 3 months ago with the Charger 2 damper.  Much improved damping now. But it did cost me just over R5k.

 

A standard RL has terrible small bump compliance.

[Zorro5614]

The 2018 Reba RL seems to have a much improved damper. The Fox is however very tempting. Only concern is the flex (I am 74kg) and maintenance.