Öhlins Introduces New RXF 36 Fork and Universal TTX 22 M Shock

Hot on the trail of a podium at the recent Fort William Mountain Bike World Cup (Adam Brayton), Öhlins launches all new ‘universal’ shocks and forks at the famous Crankworx event in Les Gets, France.

Celebrating their 40th Anniversary, Swedish suspension brand Öhlins is legendary in the motorcycle world but recently focused its impressive R&D and engineering knowhow on the world of mountain biking. Having developed OE shocks for Specialized Demo 8 downhill machines, Öhlins have now turned their attention to equipment for a wide range of machines and riding types.

A direct descendent of those Specialized shocks is the TTX 22 M Universal, an aftermarket shock absorber designed to handle the big hits and drops found on hardcore downhill circuits, yet still allowing pedaling efficiency for the inevitable flat and uphill sections on every ride. Available in seven different lengths and strokes, the TTX 22 M can transform the ride of most bikes on the market.

Its Öhlins patented Twin Tube (TTX) design allows gas pressure to remain constant and consistent, essential in prolonged use on demanding terrain. There is a wide range of external adjustment which remain simple to change, offering three high-speed compression levels, 16 click low-speed compression adjustment and 7 rebound settings. Weight has been reduced to just 423 to 454 gram units (including ball joints).

TTX 22 M Universal Highlights

TTX-technology
Specifically designed for the Enduro/gravity segment
Shock length/stroke: 8.5x2.5”, 8.75x2.75”, 9.5x3”, 10.5x3.5”, 7.87x2.25”, 7.87x2.0”, 7.5x2.0”
Nitrogen pressurized bladder reservoir system
Weights from 423 grams to 454 grams including ball joint
Spring weight has been reduced
Easy to set up with enough adjustment range to suit different riding conditions
External, 3 level high-speed compression adjustment
External, 16 click low-speed compression adjustment rebound damping adjustment
External, 7 click rebound adjustment

Catering for the ultra popular Enduro-trail market, Öhlins announce the lightweight (340g) STX 22 Air Universal. The well proven Öhlins STX technology is based on experience from motocross which has gained the company over 300 MX championship titles. The Universal is available in four different lengths/strokes with mounting hardware compatible with a majority of all available Enduro/trail bikes on the market.

The STX 22 Air Universal features a large piston diameter balanced by a large compression valve that ensures internal pressures are kept under control. Combined with a special low friction seal, this results in excellent damping response offering ride efficiency and ‘smoothness’ without tampering with downhill control. Low and high speed compression and rebound damping are externally adjustable. It is also possible to tune the ‘spring curve’ by adding or removing volume spacers or additional oil, for a more progressive or linear feel.

STX 22 Air Universal Highlights

STX-technology
Specifically designed for the Enduro/trail segment
Sizes: 190x51mm, 200x51mm, 200x57mm, 216x63mm
External rebound damping adjustment
External high and low speed compression adjustment
Weight starting at 340 g
Low friction seal

Moving to the other end of the bike, Öhlins launch the RXF 36 Front Fork, the new, bigger brother to the revolutionary RXF 34. Implementing TTX Twin Tube technology into the fork, the RXF 36 is compatible with Boost 29”, 650b+, as well as some 650b frames. The fork expands the capabilities of the modern trail bike, adding even more traction, shock absorption and stability, without adding unnecessary weight.

Available in 120mm, 140mm, 150mm, and 160mm travel, the RXF 36 covers the needs of every type of mountainbiker through Enduro, Trail and hardcore Downhill fans. Low and high speed compression adjustment is tuneable externally, as is rebound adjustment. Another unique feature of the RXF is its ‘unicrown’ set-up; a one piece crown and steering tube with no bearing races. Developed for maximum rigidity and for longevity, the process includes a one-piece forged unit which is then accurately CNC machined and finished.

RXF 36 Highlights

TTX-technology
Fits 29” and 650b+, as well as some 650b frames (see fork dimension on page 2)
Travel: 120mm, 140mm, 150mm, 160mm
36 mm stanchion tubes
15x110mm axle (boost)
51 mm offset
Three air chamber system, two positive and one negative
External rebound adjustment
External high speed and low speed compression adjustment
Low friction seals and bushings
Tapered steerer tube
Easily tuneable, self-balanced Air Spring Technology

Öhlins have chosen Les Gets, the new for 2016 European leg of the Crankworx Tour, to showcase these products to the competing racers, knowledgeable fans and assembled media. One of Europe’s biggest mountain bike festivals, it is the first event of its type for the Scandinavian brand. Experts from the factory will be available for advice on products and set-up, whilst stars such as Nico Vink, Adam Brayton and Luis Lacondeguy will be in attendance to relive their experiences and sign autographs.

Ohlins Mountainbike Team Leader Terje Hansen explains, “Everyone at Öhlins are super excited to be part of Crankworx at Les Gets this year. It’s the first time we will meet the public at this kind of event and show our highly developed new products. We think it will also be cool to see some of the Öhlins athletes such as Nico , Luis and Adam, fresh off the podium in Fort William hitting the slopes and at the Öhlins booth to sign autographs. Make sure you swing by the Öhlins stand to pick up your free water bottle!”