Öhlins RXF34 m.2 fork review

The Öhlins RXF34 m.2 34mm-stanchion fork is aimed at the growing downcountry market.

Its chassis, damper and spring are all new, and designed with weight-saving as a top priority.

Öhlins RXF34 m.2 fork specification details

The 130mm-travel option I have on test (there’s a 120mm version, too) weighs 1.74kg, which is competitive.

The new spring has a more traditional positive chamber and self-equalising negative chamber, with volume spacers to increase progression, rather than the three-chamber design Öhlins is known for.

It’s also simpler and uses a single-tube design for compression and rebound damping, rather than a twin-tube system, to help minimise weight.

Öhlins RXF34 m.2 performance

On the trail, the fork was up to the task of enabling me to push the 130mm of travel to its limits. The steering felt precise, and I never entered a turn worried about flex or thinking the fork wouldn’t have my back if my entry speed was wrong.

I was able to hold lines across roots, rocks and cambers, and wasn’t knocked off course more than I'd expect to be.

The RFX34 m.2 doesn’t cause any more hand and arm fatigue than other similar lightweight trail forks, either.

For its short travel, it feels plush, with good sensitivity off the top. Don’t expect the ground-hugging performance of an enduro bike fork, but it certainly reduces a lot of the buzz and vibrations from high-frequency trail chatter.

Support builds well through the mid-stroke and, even when riding with the low-speed compression fully open, there was never too much wallow when pumping through compressions and high-load turns.

That helps with maintaining momentum and flow down the trail – particularly important on the types of bike this fork will be bolted to.

Measured and controlled

Running the low-speed compression fully open was my preferred setting, although the range between fully open and closed is all usable, and there’s less of a difference between the two ends of the spectrum than on other brands’ forks.

Progression builds smoothly throughout the RXF34 m.2’s stroke, with no harsh spiking.

In fact, the travel is measured and controlled through its full range, usable when you need it and not wasted when you don’t, which is impressive.

I ran the two-position high-speed compression damping fully open, too. Both positions function well, so you can toggle between them depending on what type of trail you’re on.

The pedal mode doesn’t fully lock out the suspension, instead still allowing some movement through the initial travel, then firming up after the first 20mm or so.

Öhlins RXF34 m.2 bottom line

Overall, the Öhlins RXF34 m.2 performs very well with a practical range of adjustments, delivering ample support when the going gets rough.

However, the high price tag may be prohibitive for some.