RockShox’s stiff and tough Revelation trail fork gets a new level of RCT3 damping adjustability for 2012. The only structural change is a neat triangular brake hose guide, but it’s still one of the most accurate tracking and precise trail forks. It's ideal for aggressive, progressive riders who don’t want the weight of the big 35mm-stanchion Lyrik, but still want to end up where they want the far side of a rock field or knot of roots.
The RCT3 DNA damper gives open, threshold and lockout modes, plus independent low speed compression for accurate feel control, if you're prepared to fettle. Increased air volume from a new top cap makes for a smoother, less awkward to balance feel from the Dual Air spring system. Once tuned and bedded in there’s nothing that’ll phase it this side of suicidal drops, and traction and predictability are excellent, if not quite as seemingly effortless as with Fox forks. Pump, stickers and seals are included too.
Also consider: RockShox Revelation RCT3 Dual Position Air, £725. The DPA switch gives 30mm of instant travel change, but it’s very linear and easy to bottom out.
