Editor’s Note: We have “c_g”‘s first report now on the all new DT Swiss XRR Rigid 470 carbon fiber fork for 29″ers here to share. Twenty Nine Inches would like to thank “c_g” for this contribution and thank DT Swiss for submitting a sample to him for test/review.

Riding impressions: DT-SWISS 29er Rigid fork – XRR RIGID 470: by “c_g”

Here comes the first post on riding the DT-Swiss XRR Carbon fork (for an introduction details
see here). With a bit of time on it (on board my new Mi-Tech test rig) I feel confident to inform
you with some first impressions and additional details:

DETAILS: The fork comes with the corresponding small parts. These were a very well executed expander to support the full carbon steerer tube against the clamping forces from the stem and the anodized DT-Swiss top cap. Like most expander systems it has a quill that limits its positioning to the topmost part of the tube. This means you’ll have to run the stem in the upper 3 inches – nothing to complain about and absolutely common with Carbon steerer tubes but worth noting if you like to modify your position by sliding your stem up and down.

XRR_5Upon first glance there is some resemblance between the new DT-Swiss XRR fork and its predecessor the PACE RC29. Both share round fork legs and consist of multiple pieces (fork legs, crown & steerer, connecting spigots, drop outs and an elastomer ring at the crown/leg junction).

While the Pace was probably the first and most recognized Carbon rigid fork, the DT- Swiss XRR takes this design and construction to an whole new level. For maximum weight reduction all but the cast magnesium drop outs (with post mount brake bosses and forward angled slots) and hose guide on the left legs rear is 100 % carbon – including the connecting spigot. This results in the very respectable weight of 585 gm.

Overall the fork comes with pretty conservative to almost industrial looking graphics that complete the forks elegant appearance. By appearance this fork would suit a classic steel or ti frame equally well as a modern Carbon or alloy frame.

I like the PM mounts for the adapter free mounting in 160 mm but since I am running a 185 mm front brake – the maximum rotor size of the DT-Swiss XRR– there still is an adapter to mount.

Another nice detail (for some) with the XRR is that among the new generation of full carbon forks it is the one with the biggest tire clearance that I know of, the straight blades and wide
crown give more clearance than you will ever need. Just for the fun of it I tried a 3,7 SURLY Endomorph and it spun freely, not much room left on both sides but it works – this might not
be exciting for everyone but for those with long winters it might be good news.

RIDE: Once mounted, the XRR fork is transformed from being an object of observation (and admiration) to an instrument of fun – hopefully. After much time on the GAS29 Stambek (a long travel hard tail) it was a short transition to riding fully rigid again but the simple joy of it came back pretty quickly. It felt good to finesse my way through roots and rocks again.. Not everyone likes riding fully rigid but if you do – this fork sure is worth looking into. Amongst the rigid forks I have ridden the XRR is not only one of the lightest but also one of the stiffest forks. The round UD- Carbon legs make for equally high torsional and lateral stiffness as very good braking stiffness. Hard braking had little effect on the fork.

Steering is verrrry precise. There is some amount of shock absorption both on the trail chatter as on the rough but overall it is on the stiffer side of things. For those who are into rigid forks: I feel like it definitely is more precise and rigid than the Pace while saving major ounces (or grams ?) and for sure stiffer than the newer NINER Carbon fork.Though playing in a whole different league (in weight and price) the XRR best compares to the ON-One rigid fork in terms of stiffness and compliance.

XRR_6

GEOMETRY: The fork length (axle to top of crown) is a almost standard 29er size at 470 mm. The steerer comes in 1 1/8 only – which is fine for me but might have some ask for a tapered version (I have never had the chance to ride a tapered configuration to judge whether it is really beneficial or more hype). One thing though is important to comment on – the nowadays unusual 41 mm offset of the DT-Swiss XRR. Another reminiscence to the PACE RC29. I was expecting to feel a bigger difference to the ON-ONE fork I had owned and was a bit worried since the frame was designed with a rigid fork with more offset in mind but so far the smaller offset somehow has not stuck me as peculiar or negative. Discerning riders will feel the difference but up to this point Id say it is well within the range of feeling pleasant overall. Amazing how 29ers are more adaptable to different geometries, isn’t it?

I acknowledge that my impressions might be biased by riding the XRR on a new bike (that I still need to get fully accustomed to) but as a whole it has a slight tendency to feeling on the
stable side of things, which suites the TYKEs Allround to Touring oriented design really well. I will need some more riding time on the fork and might mount it on other bikes before I will
comment more on the geometry – so far it delivers despite the conservative offset; no complaints there.

RIDE ON
c_g