Swedish suspension firm Öhlins has lifted the lid on a second, burlier single-crown fork to join its existing RXF34 model. Available in 120,140,150 and 160mm travel options, the 36mm-stanchion RXF36 is a continuation of the firm's collaboration with Specialized.
The chassis will be sold in 650b and 29in form and inside there are similar guts to the RXF34, meaning three air chambers – the third serving as an externally adjustable way of tweaking the fork's progressiveness.
Another bit of tech migrated but upscaled from the smaller fork is the one-piece forged crown and steerer assembly, where stiffness is claimed to surpass that of the RockShox Lyrik or Fox 36.
In comparison with the RXF34, there's a slightly narrower range offered at the external rebound and compression adjustment dials. There's also Boost axle spacing at 110mmx15mm. Claimed weight figures vary between 2,080g and 2,150g depending on the exact model chosen.
Announced at the same time was the STX 22, an air shock developed specifically for Specialized's Enduro. Adjustments follow a similar layout to the TTX coil shocks but its external adjustments offer a narrower tuning range – that's hardly surprising considering they've been developed to work on a specific frame.
The lightweight (claimed 340g) STX22 inherits Specialized's smart auto-sag tech that quickly and easily gets a rider to the recommended 17mm sag figure. It is also possible to tune the shock's ‘spring curve’ by adding or removing volume spacers or additional oil, for a more progressive or linear feel.
Enduro owners stretching as far back as MY2013 will be able to retrofit the STX 22 in their frames.
Pricing and availability details are still TBA, but we'll be getting samples of both in ASAP so keep your eyes peeled for the reviews.
