Sea Otter: DT Swiss’ One Piece Magnesium forks

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Lightweight fork on a simplified platform…

Lighter, stiffer, better
Lighter, stiffer, better

With a simpler construction than the company’s multi-part Torsion Box forks, DT Swiss’ OPM (for One Piece Magnesium) forks wind up not only being stiffer and lighter than their stablemates, but also less expensive to manufacture.  For 2015, a new OL model will use a similarly-simplified damper to create a lightweight but stiff 29er fork.

OL damper
OL damper

As seen in 2014 models, the OPM casting is relieved to remove material where it isn’t needed, bulging slightly around the bushings.  The post-style brake bosses are – dare we say it – darn sexy.  The reverse arch is a large truss-like affair, an arrangement that is inherently stiffer than forward-facing arches.  The OL lever at the top of the right leg is either open or locked, with rebound damping adjustable via a top-mounted knob.

Mmm... trussy.
Mmm… trussy.

The OPM OL fork will be available with 26/27.5in and 29er castings.  Smaller wheels will receive 100-150mm travel; wagon wheels get 100-130mm.  The 100mm 29er version is said to weigh 1,630g (3.6lb) – XC race territory.  With the white fork trend seemingly coming to an end, black is finally the new black.  UK pricing has not yet been set- in the US, the OPM OL will come in at $830.

dtswiss.com


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