Like other 2006 Magura forks, the Phaon might not look much different to last year's models, but invisible changes have made a big difference. New seal heads and a slipperier stanchion treatment mean that the fork is much smoother than previously stubborn Maguras.
It's still notchier than the most fluid units though, with occasional rub and creak from the coil springs also evident. Otherwise this well proven fork gets on with bump eating and steers very accurately, and from experience it improves rather than suffers with age/mileage. Fork top travel winder, variable spring preload plus rebound and compression damping are all adjustable externally for easy, meaningful tweaking, too.
Stainless steel dropout and disc mount corrosion protectors increase longevity and the bolted crown means you can easily replace bent bits - although it does push weight slightly high for the travel. The Phaon is also available in 1in. steerer and custom colour versions for oldies and trendies.
