fork 160mm travel

The best 160 mm MTB fork you can buy

A mighty battle is raging. Podiums around the world are being painted orange or red, the two biggest suspension companies are going toe to toe. Forums are filled with polarising chatter and new challengers want to turn the world upside down. It was time for us to test the 8 best 160 mm suspension forks on the market.

“This is it, suspension cannot get any better!” How many times have we heard that? But each new year suspension evolves again. New technology and innovative dampers take things to a new level. Unlike the traditional ‘emperor’s new clothes’ message of the bike industry, suspension forks have nowhere to hide, they are right on the front line. Poor performance results in poor handling, only greatness leads to victory. In this group test, we have all the biggest hitters of suspension, but we also have some wildcards too, and we all know that the underdog sometimes has big teeth.

What makes a good suspension fork?

A suspension fork has three main duties. One; the spring needs to protect the rider from violent hits when you roll foolishly into a crazy line, while being sensitive enough to absorb the small bumps. Two; the damper needs to control the spring, absorbing forces and maintaining grip. Three: the fork needs a stiff chassis for carving hard lines while under pressure. To achieve these duties, a suspension fork has two main components inside, a spring and damper. The spring absorbs the initial impact, storing the energy. The damper controls the speed of the spring, forcing oil through small ports it turns the kinetic energy of the spring into heat. The best dampers will provide support and stability on steep terrain, staying high in their travel under hard braking and rider weight shifts, offering up full travel only when needed. Highly tunable, a fork should allow you to tailor the fork’s performance to your riding style and home trails without needing a PhD in suspension kinematics.

Is this the year of the underdog?

160 mm forks have to do it all: they need to be powerful enough to send huge bike park jumps, reliable enough for long days in the mountains and light enough to destroy STRAVA times on home trails and win EWS races. In the group test, we had all the big hitters and also some plucky wildcards. On the podiums, this year has been the battle of orange vs. red, the FOX 36 FLOAT Factory GRIP2 vs. the RockShox Lyrik RC2 , that was a face-off we needed to have. But joining them were some fierce new players to the market, the Cane Creek HELM Air and Formula Selva both boast incredible tunability, would they upset the natural order? We had underdogs too, the Öhlins RXF 36 Coil brings some heavy metal to the party, boasting super smooth damping, and the Intend Edge intends to turn the suspension market upside down. We’re not all made of money so the inclusion of the RockShox Yari RC and Marzocchi Bomber Z1 claim to offer more for less. Other brands were invited, some could not supply forks in time, while others were unprepared to go directly against the forks in this test.

How we tested

Fact: suspension forks are better than ever, even affordable forks now offer levels of damping that outshine the best forks of just a few years ago. With performance margins closing, the only way to separate the forks is with extensive shuttled back to back testing. We used testers with weights between 75 – 95 kg, and all testers used the same wheel size (29”) and tyre combo (MAXXIS Minion DHR II / Minion DHF). Each tester used identical tyre pressures, and bar height was corrected from fork to fork using spacers to ensure there were no changes to contact points. Forks were first tested using the manufacturers recommended settings then optimised to test rider preference. We scored not only the damping quality, but also each and every dial, control, and quick release. Reviewing was only carried out after extensive setup runs to dial in the optimum rebound and compression settings. Trails were chosen to involve big square-edged hits, high-speed G-outs, and fast chatter – really tough EWS level trails.

The laws of suspension – Setup Is Everything

There are no longer good and bad forks, only good and great forks. Now, more than ever, the correct setup is key. You can take the incredible RockShox Lyrik RC2 and if you set it up badly, it will perform worse than a well set up RockShox Yari RC. Unlike rear shocks, where frame engineers can use the rear suspension kinematics to control the forces acting on the shock, suspension forks all encounter the same leverage ratio, 1:1. Different riders with different riding styles may want different responses from their suspension fork, some desire buttery smooth small bump compliance, some want huge support for big jumps and high speeds, some just want an easy to ride setup. Manufacturers now have to balance the needs of those who want a good setup from the box, with those who love tinkering and agonise over one click of compression damping. Tuning focussed brands like Cane Creek, Formula and FOX allow almost every aspect of the suspension performance to be modified to suit the rider’s preferences, while Marzocchi, Ohlins and RockShox try to keep setup simple.

Turning Suspension Upside down

We have been waiting for a good upside-down suspension fork for years, just look at the ultimate expression of performance, motocross and superbikes, once motorbikes went upside-down they never looked back. So why don’t we have an inverted fork? The Intend Edge is perhaps one vision of that future. Inverted forks make a lot of sense, especially when you consider strength and stiffness. As you hammer down the trail, the highest fore-aft stress your forks encounter is under the crown where the leverage is highest. On a standard fork, this is where the thinnest stanchions are bonded into the crown. On an upside fork, this point can be substantially thicker, resulting in more fore-aft stiffness. However, having no brace does mean that upside down forks have always been plagued with increased lateral flex.

#Offsetgate

Offset was the talk of the last few months, it’s amazing how many heated discussions could stem from a few millimeters of fork offset. The concept is simple, the shorter the fork offset, the longer the trail (the distance between where the wheel contacts the ground and the steering axis, found by drawing a line down the fork to the ground). A longer trail stabilizes the steering. Traditionally, manufacturers gave 29ers longer offsets to produce shorter trails for faster steering, but that thinking is changing now we are riding in harder terrain. Many brands are now offering multiple offsets per wheel size, such as the RockShox Lyrik RC2 that offers both 51 and 42 mm offsets in 29” (46 and 37 mm in 27.5”). After extensive back to back testing with both offsets we are happy to announce the following – the difference is almost imperceptible. Our testers slightly prefered the shorter offset (and thus shorter wheelbase) in tight switchbacks, favouring the longer offset (longer wheelbase) on high speed, open trails, but the difference is too marginal to be conclusive.

No more band-aid fixes

Nearly all the forks in this group test have some system to reduce the volume of the positive air spring to increase progressivity, some use plastic tokens, some use movable seal heads, the Formula Selva even uses foam cylinders. The use of tokens has been increasingly promoted over the last few years with many active riders adding two, three or even four tokens. However, decreasing the volume of an air spring is never the best solution, more a band-aid fix. During testing, we found that we now require less volume reduction in the air spring, the forks are offering more support in the middle to the end of the stroke. Much of this is due to larger negative springs and lower friction internals helping retain small bump compliance while still allowing sufficient air pressure to support the rider during bigger hits.

The need for servicing

Let’s face it, nobody likes spending money on servicing, instead, we would love to spend all our expendable cash on shiny new bike kit. However, you would not buy a Ferrari 488 and never change the oil. If you want to get the best from your bike, it’s important to keep it in good condition. The internet is full of great how-to videos and tutorial so learn how to do a basic lower service, don’t think of it as a service, think of it as a treat for you and your bike. Making a regular lubricant change will not only boost your mechanical kung-fu but also leave you with silky smooth forks.

With damper performances growing closer, proper setup is now more important than ever. Every single fork in this test has the potential to be the best or the worst performer depending on proper, or improper setup. Tuners and those with skill will love the Cane Creek HELM Air and Formula Selva , both can be highly optimised to rider tastes and offer a superb ride but do need more time to dial in. For those on a budget, who want to simply hit the trails, both the Marzocchi Bomber Z1 and RockShox Yari RC are effortless to set up and offer great bang for your buck, only the more refined GRIP damper of the Marzocchi Bomber Z1 nudges it ahead to take the Best Value award. We wanted to love the Intend Edge as in many ways it’s revolutionary, but we did have some concerns. For the overall victor, two forks stood a class apart from the rest, the RockShox Lyrik RC2 and FOX 36 FLOAT FACTORY GRIP2 both have sublime dampers, calm under fire, even in the hardest terrain they felt like they were hardly breaking a sweat – we found we could ride faster and in more control. Even after weeks of meticulous Vs. testing, performance remains inseparably good, but the RockShox Lyrik RC2 is nearly €300 less which is impossible to ignore so it takes the Best In Test win, but what a battle.

To the forks, this way!

Table of Contents

• The 8 Best 160 mm Suspension Forks
• Best in test RockShox Lyrik RC2
• Best Value Marzocchi Bomber Z1
• Cane Creek HELM Air
• Formula Selva
• FOX 36 FLOAT Factory GRIP2
• Intend Edge
• Öhlins RXF 36 Coil
• RockShox Yari RC

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Best mountain bike forks: XC, trail and enduro forks reviewed and rated

• Mick Kirkman
• January 10, 2024

With fork technology evolving, the singletrack is getting faster and faster - our pick of the best mountain bike forks will help you run smoother.

If you’re looking to make a significant improvement to a mountain bike’s ride quality, upgrading to the best mountain bike suspension forks is a smart option. The top models are likely to be one of the biggest investments you’ll make, but they pack the potential to totally transform your riding experience.

Fox Float 38 Performance Elite offers all the adjustments of the Factory model, at a slightly cheaper price.

1. Fox Float 38 Performance Elite

Best enduro and e-bike fork.

Weight: 2,360g | Travel: 160-180mm | Wheel sizes : 27.5 or 29in | Rating: 10/10

Reasons to buy:

• Supple yet supportive
• Ample adjustability
• Even light riders are well catered for now

Reasons to avoid:

• Yep, you guessed it: price tag
• Can get lost in the adjustments if you don’t know what you’re doing

Fox’s flagship single-crown fork is also our ultimate upgrade choice. As long as you have the budget, this burly-legged bruiser takes the roughest tracks in its stride. It’s more sensitive and slightly more composed than the RockShox Zeb, even if the adjustments are not quite as user-friendly. Indeed, in back-to-back testing at BikePark Wales, the 38 clearly had the edge over the RockShox Zeb on the same tracks on the same day, to the point we started to think that our Zeb was in need of a service.

As long as you’re careful and methodical with the dials, you can dial-in this fork exactly how you want it, and then its just a case of hammering as hard as you can, because the Fox 38 just keeps on coming back for more.

Read our full test review of the Fox Float 38 Performance Elite

Fox 36 Factory GRIP2 is perfect for most riders and even works well on e-bikes up to 160mm travel.

2. Fox 36 Factory GRIP2

Best trail bike fork.

Weight: 2,220g | Offset: 44mm or 51mm (29in), 37 or 44mm (27.5in) | Travel: 150 or 160mm | Rating: 10/10

• The best ever 36 by far
• Smooth and delicate everywhere
• Premium price tag over rivals
• Kashima coating looks great but doesn’t really transform performance

While it’s tempting to assume you need the extra strength and stiffness of the stout 38, many riders will actually be better off on the erstwhile 36. Why? Well it’s lighter and the chassis is still plenty stiff enough at popular trail bike travel. And the slimmer legs can actually help reduce harshness on mega-stiff carbon e-bike frames.

It still gets the same soft initial touch and reliable support as the 38, and the adjustments are just as wide and effective. We love the new chassis with its lower leg lubrication channels, that splash oil over the bushings and seals to keep it smooth and sensitive. And the pressure bleeders are a useful addition on hot days and long descents. Even the new dropouts can really help reduce binding and keep the ensure you’re maximising performance. As we said in our review, “the latest Factory 36 feels like floating in a bath of oil, but also informs enough about the terrain to ride precisely and actively by never being too wallowey or mushy”. So there you have it.

Read our test of Fox 36 Factory GRIP2 fork

For half the price of the most expensive forks, Marzocchi’s Bomber Z2 Rail delivers excellent performance.

3. Marzocchi Bomber Z2 Rail

Best value fork.

Weight: 2,010g | Offset: 44mm, 51mm | Travel: 100, 120, 130, 140, 150mm | Wheel sizes : 27.5 or 29in | Rating: 9/10

• Simple to set up
• Lots of grip
• Stiff chassis
• Great price-to-performance ratio
• Carrying some extra weight
• Lacking a bit of support
• Basic adjustments

Essentially a Fox 34 Rhythm in drag, the Marzocchi Bomber Z2 Rail offers excellent performance and low-maintenance at an affordable price. Everything is built big and burly to last, so it’s not the lightest fork on the block, but it needs less time in the workshop and less fettling by the trail-side to set-up.

Given the price, the Z2 is a surprisingly capable fork and responds well to being ridden hard. The highlights are the grip as there’s very little harshness, and it feels solid and secure landing big jumps and drops. As such it fits Marzocchi’s image as a freeride brand. To lift a quote from our review, “if you just want minimal faff and maximum ride time, the Z2 is ideal”.

Read our full test test review of Marzocchi Bomber Z2 Rail fork

RockShox SID Ultimate blurs the lines between XC and trail riding.

4. RockShox SID Ultimate

Best xc and down-country fork.

Weight: 1,508g | Offset: 44mm | Wheel size: 29in | Travel: 120mm | Rating: 10/10

• Great combination of low weight and supple performance
• Doesn’t ride like an uptight XC fork
• Price tag isn’t very light
• Needs regular servicing
• Not the stiffest fork if you charge hard

In many ways, we think the SID is the best fork in RockShox’s current range. It’s impressively light, bringing noticeable and significant weight savings, yet it’s sensitive, supportive, and stout enough for rallying hard. To spearhead a top down-country chassis, such as the Transition Spur , it’s a match made in heaven.

We’re mainly talking about the 35mm version, with 120mm travel, leaving the skinnier 32mm option for racing only. There’s a bit of flex under extreme loads, but given the SID’s weight and remit, it’s perfectly acceptable. Overall, the SID is an incredibly impressive fork that arguably bridges the gap between the masochistic world of XC racing and the baggy shorted smile-time of trail riding.

Read our full test review of the RockShox SID Ultimate

For simple set-up and a stout chassis, the RockShox Zeb Ultimate is a great choice. 

5. RockShox Zeb Ultimate

Best fork for easy of set-up.

Weight: 2,280g | Wheel sizes: 27.5 or 29in | Travel: 150-190mm | Offsets : 38mm, 44mm (27.5in), 44mm, 51mm (29in) | Rating: 9/10

• Great option for e-bikes and/or heavier riders
• Damping not quite as amazing as rival forks

Although the Zeb is slightly less adjustable than its rival Fox 38, it is a bit lighter, and more importantly is cheaper. There’s no lack of stiffness, so it’s a great upgrade for a long-travel e-bike if you’re a heavier rider.

The damper is easily adjustable, with dials that can be tuned like an amplifier, rather than endlessly rotated as you try to remember the clicks. And the adjustments really make a noticeable difference, too. Which encourages you to make changes on-the-fly and really dial in your set-up. Having ridden loads of Zebs and just as many Fox 38s, our experience is that the RockShox product has more damping and a more stuck-to-the ground feel, compared to the 38’s supple yet supportive response.

Read our full test review of the RockShox Zeb Ultimate

The icing on the cake of any short travel trail bike: The Fox 34 Float Factory.

6. Fox 34 Float Factory GRIP2

Best lightweight trail fork.

Weight: 1,770g | Offset: 44mm, 51mm | Travel: 130mm, 140mm | Wheel sizes : 27.5 or 29in | Rating: 10/10

• Four-way adjustable GRIP2 damper
• More sensitivity off-the-top
• Increased mid-stroke support
• Higher price point than rivals

34 diameter upper tubes may seem weedy in a world of 38mm options, but for most trail bikes with 130-140mm travel, they have ample stiffness. And the pinnacle of the trail bike fork market is the Fox 34 Factory, thanks to its impeccable damping and perfectly tuned air spring.

The performance of the 34 is exceptionally fluid and controlled, so it provides ample comfort and never gets flustered. The new chassis helps circulate the oil for improved consistency, and the four-way damping adjustments mean you can always get the right tune. Not a cheap prospect, but the ultimate performance usually comes at a cost.

Read our full test review of the Fox 34 Float Factory GRIP2

Smooth as silk: The Cane Creek Helm Coil MKII

7. Cane Creek Helm Coil MKII

Best coil-sprung trail fork.

Weight: 2,400g | Offset: 44mm | Travel: 130-160 (internally adjustable) | Rating: 9/10

• One of the best at beating trail chatter
• Sheer traction levels from that coil spring
• Coil adds weight

Coil-sprung forks are a rarity these days, but Cane Creek puts up a convincing argument that they still deserve a place at the top table. The Helm Air MKII comes in both air and coil options, and we’ve tested both, and rated them highly, but its the coil version that really got us excited. It also stands out as one of the few coil options on the market. So why the hype? Well, in our review we were blown away by the quality of damping and reduction in harshness. In turn, that meant more control and less fatigue, so we could take stupid lines, and push harder for longer. It was almost like cheating.

Yes, the coil spring adds weight and doesn’t have the breadth of convenient adjustability of an air spring, but if you’re looking for something left-field, and are already sold on the advantages of coil-sprung shocks, the Cane Creek Helm Coil could be the perfect complement.

Read our test of Cane Creek Helm Coil MKII

Which is the best fork? The suspense is killing me…

How we tested mountain bike forks

With plenty of time to put these forks through their paces, we ended riding everywhere from uplift days at BikePark Wales, Dyfi Bike Park and Revolution Bike Park, to big days out hammering Lake District bedrock. The forks here also either did extended time on Alpine riding trips, being pummelled by 10,000s of metres descending, or faced accelerated forces bolted to various all- mountain e-bikes.

All forks were then back-to-back tested systematically on the same bike (in the dry for maximum speeds and loads) on a local test track. The track we chose had a good mix of steep, twisty ruts up top and then high-speed, beaten-up braking bumps and berms towards the bottom. It’s a track known intimately to all test riders and chosen for how hard it works even a modern suspension fork.

RockShox’s latest and greatest Zeb Ultimate fork

Know the best mountain bike forks:

With suspension brands continually updating their products for improved performance, fork technology is a constantly evolving landscape. Leading players like Fox and RockShox will be familiar as original equipment on complete bike packages, while he smaller firms here have big ambitions for a slice of the aftermarket pie. With trickle-down development from oher areas such as motocross and rallying, there’s a really broad approach to design, technology and tunability among the brands represented.

Considering a fork literally just has to slide up and down to absorb bumps and stabilise the rider, a huge amount of R&D and technology lurks inside. Chassis stiffness, weight, damper architecture, seal and bushing friction, and adjustability are just some of the factors suspension engineers strive to improve. Forks also have to work for a wide range of rider styles and weights.

Most high-end forks come with mind-boggling adjustability, but whether you’re a suspension expert, or you just want to enjoy more speed, comfort and control, for this buyer’s guide put in the hard miles to really get to the bottom of which model delivers ultimate performance on the trail.

Digital shock pump

Air-sprung forks support rider weight with a tuneable air cushion. Air pressure is added via a Schrader valve with a specific high-pressure shock pump to tune ride feel and adjust spring rate and support.

Fox 38 volume spacer

Volume spacers

These aren’t used on every fork, but tweaking the size of the (positive) air chamber by adding or removing volume spacers (or in-built systems to do the same) affects the spring curve. More spacers increases spring progression and helps prevent harsh bottom-outs, while fewer spacers (a larger internal volume) softens the end stroke. Öhlins uses a separate, third, ramp-up chamber to tune progressivity.

External adjusters

External adjustment

Dials on the top and bottom of the fork legs adjust parameters to tune support and control. Separate damping dials allow specific tuning options as to how much oil is allowed through ports and shims inside to absorb impacts, but more options also introduce more opportunities to mess up settings. Having said that, most suspension brands and bike companies now offer decent tuning guides according to body weight, and these will give you a good start point to work from.

Stanchion diameter is an important metric for overall stiffness, with thicker fork legs generally adding weight. Bushing size and overlap, plus crown and brace construction also affect rigidity. Tapered steerer tubes are the norm – 1 1/8in to 1.5in at the base. Lower-leg assemblies use cast magnesium to save weight, and all forks here use a Boost 110mm axle spacing with quick- release-style or Allen-key fixings.

Positive and negative springs

Within the air spring there are typically two separate elements balancing breakaway friction and small-bump sensitivity against support. A negative spring pushes back against the main positive spring, and either takes the form of a separate (automatically equalising) air chamber or a coil spring.

Fork rake or offset has evolved as an important design element. Most brands now offer two different offsets in each wheel size, ranging from 37mm up to 51mm. It’s complicated, but offset affects steering feel and tyre stabilising force, so shorter offsets offer more stability and a ride quality that emulates a slacker head angle, while still keeping the bike’s wheelbase shorter.

Compression damping

Compression damping controls the rate at which displaced damper fluid is allowed to move during bump events. Low-speed controls low shaft-speed impacts like body weight shifts and rolling terrain, and high- speed damping absorbs harsh impacts like square bump faces and landings. Forcing oil through ports or shim stacks generates damping resistance, with energy converted into heat.

High Speed Rebound, Low Speed Rebound

Rebound damping

This is the damping circuit that controls the speed that the fork returns to sag after a bump event. Low-speed damping is the most common external adjustment. The damping circuit uses orifices and shim stacks to regulate the oil flow – ports can be opened or closed and shims made stiffer or softer. Some systems also act ‘dynamically’ and respond differently according to the shaft speeds (the speed the legs slide up or down).

WELCOME TO THE CORONATION. THE UNDISPUTED ALL-MOUNTAIN CHAMPION GETS A NEW CROWN.

For MY23 the FOX 36 receives an update in the form of a new crown with updated design and engineering for more steer tube overlap improving durability and maintaining stiffness while dropping 20 grams.

LIGHTER SMOOTHER STIFFER MORE TUNABLE

Lighter by 20 grams, while increasing steerer-tube overlap at the CSU, the new crown design improves durability while our engineering maintains stiffness and drops weight.

KABOLT X AXLE

Kabolt X, a lightweight bolt-on floating axle to shave grams and increase torsional stiffness via a sleeveless, single-sided pinch bolt design.

LOWER LEG BYPASS CHANNELS

Increasing air volume within the lower legs reduces the amount of additional unintended pressure ramping. Lower leg bath oil also circulates to the upper reaches of the legs, continuously lubricating the foam rings and bushings as the fork compresses and extends through its travel.

LOWER LEG BLEEDERS

Allows for atmospheric pressure equalization for better fork performance, allowing full travel to be achieved and increasing small bump sensitivity and responsiveness.

LOWER LEG ARCH

Our new lower leg design pulls out all the stops, shaving every possible gram while making sure not to compromise stiffness or strength requirements of modern enduro and gravity-style riding.

MORE TUNABLE

Unparalleled ride quality and ultra-precise adjustability. Allows for external fine-tuning of suspension performance thanks to our patented Variable Valve Control (VVC) technology.

Optimizes small bump sensitivity by increasing negative air spring volume. Its linear spring curve delivers plushness off the top, extra mid-stroke support, and more tunable bottom-out progression.

Choose your series:

• PERFORMANCE ELITE

“Factory” says it all – feature-packed and designed to exceed the demands of our Factory-level riders. What we sell is what they race. Factory Series products feature slippery smooth, ultra-durable Genuine Kashima Coat.

Choose your damper:

SHINY ORANGE

SHINY BLACK

* Use the FORK BUILDER below to see model configurations

Our GRIP2 damper is the benchmark for unparalleled ride quality and ultra-precise adjustability. GRIP2 includes our patented Variable Valve Control (VVC) technology which allows for external fine-tuning of suspension performance. GRIP2 achieves with the twist of a knob what typically requires the time consuming and complicated task of completely disassembling and reassembling the fork.

FIT4 In its fourth generation, our patented FIT4 closed cartridge system provides three on-the-fly compression damping positions—Open, Medium, and Firm—to adapt to varying trail conditions.

Factory series forks feature an additional 22 clicks of low-speed compression adjust in the open mode, allowing riders to fine-tune their exact damping preferences..

Performance Elite forks retain the same adjustments, features, dampers, weight, and 7000 series aluminum upper tubes as Factory Series, but have black anodized stanchions instead of Genuine Kashima Coat.

MATTE BLACK

Use the FORK BUILDER below to see model configurations

New for 2021 High-speed compression now with our patented VVC (Variable Valve Control)

Grip2 is our next-evolution sealed cartridge fit system, our highest performing gravity-focused damper..

Rhythm Series forks retain all the same features as Performance Series except they feature 6000 series aluminum upper tubes and two-position GRIP sweep with infinite adjust instead of three-position GRIP with detents.

Use the FORK BUILDER below to see model configurations.

FIT GRIP Inspired from moto, the GRIP damper uses our FIT sealed cartridge technology combined with a coil-sprung, independent floating piston.

Grip allows excess oil to purge through specially designed ports at the top of the damper to maintain consistent damping and increase durability., fork builder.

All 36 forks have adjustable air spring pressure and rebound adjust.

COMPATIBLE MUD GUARDS

CLEAN LINES FOR CLEANING LINES

STANDARD MUD GUARD

Keep the mud off your fork and out of your eyes with this optional add-on Mud Guard designed specifically for 2021 and newer FOX 36 and 38 fork models. Mounts directly to the fork thanks to a proprietary 4-point direct mount system.

XL MUD GUARD

This optional add-on XL Fork Mud Guard keeps the spray out of your face and adds even more protection for your fork’s stanchions and seals. Designed specifically for 2021 and newer FOX 36 and 38 fork models, and built to give you 85% more coverage than the small, this guard mounts directly onto the fork thanks to a proprietary 4-point direct mount system.

2022 36 TUNING GUIDE

The recommended settings in this tuning guide are designed to be a starting point, in order to get you out on your first ride in as few steps as possible.

DOWNLOAD NOW

COMPLETE 2022 ONLINE OWNER'S MANUAL

36 & 38 FORKS »

SERVICE INTERVALS »

To best maintain the performance and durability of your product under normal use, FOX recommends that you have regular fork and shock maintenance performed according to the service intervals.

WARRANTY »

DIRECT TO RIDER - UNITED STATES, CANADA, GERMANY & AUSTRIA

Us dealer locator.

• Argentina CLAP Cycling Products [email protected] ph 2944 71 0287
• Australia FOX Factory Australia [email protected] ph +612 8379 0600
• Austria FOX Factory GmbH [email protected] ph +49 6334-92304-0
• Benelux LMC-Sport SRL ph +32.87.30.63.60
• Bolivia Madness Sports [email protected] ph 591 76732208
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• Denmark BikeToyz Aps www.foxservice.nu ph +45.8699.0058
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• Finland R-Tech Suspension OY [email protected] ph +358.104.233.030
• France Tribe Sport Group [email protected] ph 33494541950
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• New Zealand Blue Shark Enterprises [email protected] ph +64.3.443.8414
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• Portugal Bicimax-Artigos Desportivos [email protected] ph +351.244 575 195
• Puerto Rico Bike Stop [email protected] ph 787.782.2282
• Russia Sergey Goremykin Trading [email protected] ph 007(495)6560568
• Singapore Kian Hong Cycle PTE LTD [email protected] ph +65.6749.5787
• Slovakia Slovkolex [email protected] ph +421.42.442.1556
• Slovenia Cult [email protected] ph +386.1.754.10.30
• South Africa Omnico LTD. [email protected] ph +27.2169 10110
• South Korea SPORTSON55 INC. ph +82 2568 0755
• Spain BICIMAX [email protected] ph +34 911 983 491
• Sweden BikeToyz Aps www.foxservice.nu ph +45.8699.0058
• Switzerland Fuchs-Movesa AG ph +41 56 464 46 66
• Taiwan Klight Sport Marketing [email protected] ph 02 2761-1101
• Thailand KAZE SPORT Ltd. [email protected] ph 053 406 292
• United Kingdom Silverfish UK [email protected] ph +44.01752 843882
• United Kingdom FOX UK Service [email protected] ph +44.0204 5863775
• Uruguay Alkeus S.A. [email protected] ph +598-9841-6126
• Venezuela Elite Bikes ph +58 241-8975799

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IN STOCK SHIMANO

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131-160mm Travel Forks

Upgrade your mountain bike with a plush 131mm to 160mm travel suspension fork, ideal for epic trail riding sessions. We stock bike suspension forks for all wheel sizes including 26", 27.5" & 29" wheels from the best brands on the market – Fox , RockShox and Magura . These forks are built for the needs of rugged trail biking to perform on climbs, jumps, natural terrain – anything.

Fox 36 forks for 160mm travel MTB’s are super smooth and reliable with their advanced EVOL air spring. The Rockshox Pike 140mm fork delivers great steering precision offering unparalleled stiffness to travel to weight ratio – perfect for new-school trail riders. For super plush performance look for MTB forks with a Kashima coating, that also improves durability.

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FOX 36 Factory

Regular price $ 574.50 sale price $ 1,149.00.

Unit price / per 

Color & Axle

WELCOME TO THE CORONATION. THE UNDISPUTED ALL-MOUNTAIN CHAMPION GETS A NEW CROWN.

For MY23 the FOX 36 receives an update in the form of a new crown with updated design and engineering for more steer tube overlap improving durability and maintaining stiffness while dropping 20 grams.

Your FOX 36 Fork:

FOX 36 Factory Specs

Upper Tube Finish: Kashima Coat Air Channels: Yes Bleeders: Yes Floating Axle: Yes Rotor Size: 180 direct Post Mount, Up to 230 compatible Mud Guard Mount: Optional FOX 36/38 Mud Guard with sturdy 4-point direct-mount attachment Air Spring: FLOAT EVOL Steerer: 1.5 Taper Starting Weight: 4.28 lb / 1942g (F-S 36, 29”, 160mm Travel, KaboltX 110, 3 Pos-Adj)* * Fork weights shown are at 165mm steerer length with star fangled nut and disc brake guide installed.

Tuning & Product Manuals

Parts & accessories.

FOX Mud Guard

FOX Decal Kits

Kabolt Axle

Fork Volume Spacers

Quick Release Axle

Fork Dust Wiper Kits

Shipping & Returns Policy

We offer  free standard shipping on all orders of $99 and above.  We offer standard flat rate shipping for $10 on orders under $100 and expedited shipping based on your location.

Please note we do not ship outside of the USA. Please Visit our Canadian FOX Shop for shipments to Canada. Typically you will receive a tracking number within 2 business days following your order.

Within 30 days of purchase online FOX will accept returns of all returned with original packaging in unused condition. To initiate the return please fill out the returns form and await contact by email from our Customer Service Team. Please note shipping charges will not be refunded.

Lighter by 20 grams, while increasing steerer-tube overlap at the CSU, the new crown design improves durability while our engineering maintains stiffness and drops weight.

KABOLT X AXLE

Kabolt X, a lightweight bolt-on floating axle to shave grams and increase torsional stiffness via a sleeveless, single-sided pinch bolt design.

LOWER LEG BYPASS CHANNELS

Increasing air volume within the lower legs reduces the amount of additional unintended pressure ramping. Lower leg bath oil also circulates to the upper reaches of the legs, continuously lubricating the foam rings and bushings as the fork compresses and extends through its travel.

LOWER LEG BLEEDERS

Allows for atmospheric pressure equalization for better fork performance, allowing full travel to be achieved and increasing small bump sensitivity and responsiveness.

LOWER LEG ARCH

Our new lower leg design pulls out all the stops, shaving every possible gram while making sure not to compromise stiffness or strength requirements of modern enduro and gravity-style riding.

Unparalleled ride quality and ultra-precise adjustability. Allows for external fine-tuning of suspension performance thanks to our patented Variable Valve Control (VVC) technology.

Optimizes small bump sensitivity by increasing negative air spring volume. Its linear spring curve delivers plushness off the top, extra mid-stroke support, and more tunable bottom-out progression.

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29″ FOX Factory 36 GRIP2 Fork Shiny Orange Lowers 160mm, 44mm Offset

$ 1,139.00

This is the 29″ FOX Factory 36 GRIP2 Fork with Shiny Orange Lowers, 160mm Travel with 44mm Offset and 15QR Axle

FOX Part Number: 910-21-113

In-Stock: updated 04/04/24. Ships same or next business day!

Description

Additional information.

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Availability

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Availability Definitions:

IN-STOCK Typically ready for pickup or shipment same or next business day. Additional components may change this window (we will advise).

AVAILABLE Shows in-stock at the vendor (stock updated as often as possible). Order is processed & shipped to BikeCo (typically 3-7 working days), QC’d at BikeCo on the day the product lands and processed for pickup or shipment.

Truly the All-Mountain option the FOX Factory 36 is available in both 27.5″ and 29″ in a variety of travel, damper and offset configurations.

This is the 29″ FOX Factory 36 GRIP2 with Shiny Orange Lowers, 160mm Travel, 44mm Offset with 15QR Axle FOX Part Number: 910-21-113

Looking for this fork in a different configuration?

Chat with us (or scroll down to the contact form) about air shaft and damper options to produce the perfect FOX Factory 36 in 150 or 160mm travel with a FIT4 or GRIP2 damper.

Learn more about the FOX Factory 36 GRIP2 fork below:

GRIP2 Details

Grip2 vs fit4, fox 36 grip2 fork.

The favorite damper on the FOX 36 is the highly adjustable GRIP2.

GRIP2 Damper

The most popular damper across a wide range of rider disciplines the FOX GRIP2 provides the ultimate in quick external adjustment to fine tune your ride.

On the fork uppers riders find the FOX 36’s compression controls.

FOX GRIP2 Compression Controls

The inner black knob controls the FOX GRIP2’s Low Speed Compression while the larger diameter blue dial controls the High Speed Compression.

High-Speed Compression – 8 Clicks (now with VVC) Low-Speed Compression – 16 Clicks

The FOX GRIP2 damper provides Low and High speed compression controls to fine tune support.

Compression circuits hydraulically damp (or slow) the fork’s input assisting the air spring in providing appropriate mid-stroke and bottom out feel.

Low Speed Compression helps provide mid-stroke support. This allows a bike to ride taller in the travel in cornering while resisting brake dive, rider weight shift and other slow shaft speed inputs.

High Speed Compression works to fine tune bottom out feel as well as other high shaft speed inputs also known as square edge bumps. Example: if you sprint straight into a curb you’re likely to engage the High Speed Compression even if you’re not using full travel. This is due to the speed of the shaft moving oil to compensate for the hit.

FOX GRIP2 Rebound Controls

The larger diameter (higher) red knob controls High-Speed Rebound while the smaller diameter (lower) knob controls Low-Speed Rebound. (These have a black cover threaded over the assembly)

High-Speed Rebound – 8 Clicks (now with VVC) Low-Speed Rebound – 16 Clicks

The GRIP2 damper provides both Low (LSR) and High (HSR) rebound controls.

The addition of the High Speed or HSR control provides increased rebound control to account for the higher PSI produced by aggressive or heavier riders.

Typically riders will adjust LSR, Low Speed Rebound, to suit riding style and taste and refer to FOX’s guide for the appropriate HSR, High Speed Rebound, pairing.

Comparing FOX fork options? You might wonder what some of the major differences between the GRIP2 and FIT4 dampers are. Well here are the notable differences on the GRIP2 vs FIT4 FOX forks.

The most obvious difference between the GRIP2 and FIT4 is in the compression setups.

On the GRIP2 (left) you’ll see the High and Low Speed Compression controls. High-Speed is the outer blue ring and the inner black dial is Low-Speed.

The FIT4 (right) has a 3 position switch and Low Speed Compression adjustment for the OPEN mode. The blue 3 position switch offers OPEN, MEDIUM and FIRM and is typically used as a pedaling platform.  The inner black dial adjusts the Low-Speed Compression adding some support to the OPEN mode.

The GRIP2 (shown on left) also provides Low and High-Speed Rebound adjustment. This provides riders a bit more tuning capacity particularly those running high rebound settings to control higher air spring pressures.

With the FIT4 riders find the standard Low-Speed Rebound adjustment.

GRIP2 vs FIT4: Who Wants What?

So, which damper is right for your riding? While there is a decent range of cross-over typically riders find themselves leaning towards one or the other.

Want a pedal platform, or a climb switch? Well, you’re looking at the FIT4 option. While not used as often as a rear shock climb switch some riders prefer the option to increase the compression on those long climbs and the FIT4 gives you both a MEDIUM and FIRM option.

Are you a bigger rider (I am…)? Probably leaning towards the additional adjustability of the GRIP2. High and Low Speed controls produce a wider tunable range allowing you to fine tune your setup.

Are you a smaller, or lighter, or “poppy-er” rider? Well, the FIT4 tends to ride a bit more plush and at the same time has a bit more “pop” for those riders.

Read through more details on the tabs above about the technical aspects of both the GRIP2 and FIT4 or chat with our team to get on the right fork for your riding!

The FOX Float EVOL air spring has been fine tuned over the years to provide riders exceptional performance.

Using volume spacers the FOX Factory 36 fork can modify its progression rate creating either a more linear (less volume spacers, more total air volume) or more progressive (more volume spacers, less total air volume) feel.

FOX 36 Fork Maximum Volume Spacers

Do not use more volume spacers than FOX specifies. Severe damage to the fork and or loss of control will occur.

FOX 36 Maximum Volume Spacers

170mm: 5 160mm: 6 150mm: 7 140mm: 8 130mm: 9

Check out more details on the FOX 36 tuning guide.

FOX 36 Factory Fork Shared Features

Upper Tube Finish: Kashima Coat

Air Channels & Bleeders: Yes.

Shown above the FOX 36 provides riders a simple way to eliminate any air buildup in the fork lowers. Simply push the bleeder valve to release any pressurized air in the fork lower. Since pressure in the fork lower creates a harsh ride these small bleeders provide a notable improvement in performance and are especially valuable on lift access mountain days, races or days with big heat input changes.

Air pressure can build in the lowers from heat saturation or if the fork “gulps” air past the seals during operation. Either way, these bleeders have you covered.

The channels improve flow through the fork for more consistent performance across a range of terrain and ground speeds.

Floating Axle: Yes.

Floating axles do not need to be adjusted each time a wheel is removed. However, having the ability to set a floating axle to a new hub or wheel will greatly improve performance.

Rotor Size: 180 Direct Mount with compatibility to 230mm

Mud Guard Mount: Yes. 4 point direct mount for optional Mud Guards

Air Spring: Float EVOL

Revised Arch: Yes.

Designed to be lighter, strong while accommodating revised bike geo a lot of attention went into the fork arch.

New Crown: Yes.

20g lighter with more steer tube overlap at the CSU. All the stiffness without the weight!

Check out a quick video to learn more about how your MTB suspension functions and how each setting interacts with the others.

Comparing the FOX 36 to other forks

Before the 38 and the FOX 34 with a GRIP2 option you’d see 36s on everything from aggressive downcountry / trail bikes to big mountain, park rigs.

With the 38 and 34 taking up some of the slack the FOX 36 has shifted to the 150 and 160mm travel range – perfect for a wide range of bikes. Bikes like the Mondraker RAZE or the Yeti SB140 29 can use either the 150 or 160mm travel options on the 36.

Riders looking for a 160/170 fork option will likely gravitate to the FOX 38 while 34 takes on sub 150mm travel options.

Buy with BikeCo: Advantages

Shopping suspension? There are notable reasons to work with The Bike Company. We care about Expertise & Experience: Yours!

Our staff is excited to help you get the right product, setup for your riding. Whether you’re looking to understand your product front to back or simply want to know you got the best product for your needs dialed in for your riding we are here for you.

BikeCo.com Pro Tune Suspension

Ready to take your Fox 36 fork’s performance to the next level? Then it’s time for BikeCo’s Pro Tune Suspension.

BikeCo’s suspension tuners take Fox’s excellent performing forks and shocks and personalize the tune parameters to your specifics.

We will contact you for a riding bio to assess your riding level, terrain, riding disposition, ground speeds, etc. Our proprietary modifications then narrow the fork’s performance window, and thus improve the adjust-ability for you!

Out of the box Fox makes a great product. But it has to “fit” everyone. From the lightweight, smooth rider to a biggest, burliest basher. And everything in between. Well, chances are you’re somewhere in a narrower window with your riding… Let’s dial it in for you.

After Sales Service from BikeCo.com

Another aspect that sets BikeCo apart is our after sales service. The best components for each budget is the first step. Dialing in the exact setup combination is the next step. No other shop has the experience to help you understand and setup modern mountain bikes.

Our team will reach out with a variety of loaded questions to help you find that “ah-ha” moment with your bike. A click here, a turn there, a bit of stack, a couple PSI – it can be intimidating. But not for BikeCo clients. We’re here by phone, email, chat or in-store to help you enjoy your MTB.

Contact Me: FOX Factory 36 Fork

Questions on this product? Looking for a specific spec? Use this form and we will be in contact ASAP.

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Fox 38 Factory Grip 2 fork review

The 38 factory is the biggest and most expensive single-crown mountain bike fork fox has ever made but is it the best big-hit fork in its category we’ve been smashing several sets down uk and alpine trails from summer to winter to find out.

BikePerfect Verdict

A brilliant balance of sensitivity, support, precision and comfort for flat-out speed fiends but heavy on the bike and the wallet

Fantastic suspension feel

Sensitive yet supportive

Super precise but comfortable

Fully useable tuning

Brilliant tracking and traction

Atmospherically adjustable

Next level pricing

Go higher on recommended pressures

Limited travel options

No 1.8in steerer

Potentially overkill

Why trust BikePerfect Our cycling experts have decades of testing experience. We'll always share our unbiased opinions on bikes and gear. Find out more about how we test.

Fox wasn’t the first manufacturer to introduce a 38mm legged single crown Enduro fork, but you’ll certainly see more of its new monster on bikes and on trails than the pioneering RST Stitch. Totally new chassis and internals are loaded with practical smarts to create a truly outstanding stiffer tracking yet smoother feeling benchmark fork for the flat-out fast through anything crowd. Set up isn’t as simple as RockShox Zeb though and it’s a lot more expensive.

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Construction 

Rather than adopting the 40mm legs of its 40 DH triple-crown Fox has slotted the new fork into the obvious gap in the 32, 34, 36, 40 line-up. To make sure it doesn’t get cramped the company has now discontinued any 36 forks with more than 160mm travel, so if you want 170 or 180mm of stroke, 38s are your only option. Unlike RockShox Zeb there’s no 190mm option though and Fox has not introduced a 1.8in steerer version for some of the E-bikes that are now appearing with huge head tubes. By throwing the new smoothly curved brace further forward from the crown its given more clearance for oversized head tubes and angle set bearings though. Fox also ovalized the steerer tube so it’s fatter at the front and rear which it says makes it 9% stiffer front-rear than the 36. The bigger legs and crown plus rounded, forward projecting brace also make it a 31% stiffer laterally and 20% stiffer torsionally. Big numbers, particularly as RockShox only claims significant gains torsionally for the 38mm legged Zeb compared to the 35mm Lyrik.

The ridges up the back of the legs are channels that let air (and a bit of lubricating oil) from the lower leg transfer to the top of the fork. That keeps the top seals smooth and stops pressure build-up in the lower leg effectively creating a secondary air spring. Those channels also have manual release valves so you can burp out increased pressure caused by heat build-up or changes in altitude. Rather than using the whole leg volume the air spring also sits in a smaller diameter tube, reducing the external air effect and seal drag. 

On the damping side, the Grip 2 circuitry gives you both low- and high-speed damping adjustment of rebound and compression. Both high-speed circuits now get Fox’s VVC system where the leverage point of the oil-slowing shims in the stack are altered by the external adjuster, effectively making them softer or firmer without having to get inside and physically change the shims.

Back on the outside, the dropouts are still 15mm but the QR axle now has a step that clamps the hub against the left leg but leaves the right leg floating slightly on a sleeve. Once you’ve compressed the fork a few times to make sure it’s neutrally aligned you then tighten the sleeve clamp and the legs are secured with perfect alignment and free telescopic movement rather than being squeezed in or splayed apart by an over or undersized hub. 

If you don’t want the QR lever version there’s also a lighter Kabolt bolt-in hub which doesn’t have the sleeve system. Either way, it's still a relatively heavy fork, with our 160mm travel-sample weighing in at 2,340g cut and star-nutted. That’s 65g heavier than Zeb and the 38 also needs an adaptor to run a 200mm brake rotor.

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Performance 

I actually came into riding the 38 blind, using a Performance Elite version on a complete test bike at first without hearing any of the tech prep/hype. It was also my first time on a current year Fox, but it still totally blew me away. Admittedly that was partly because I was expecting a bigger legged version of the 36 to feel even stiffer and more unforgiving than previous generation 36s and 40s tended to. That meant the exceptional smoothness and sensitivity of the 38 came as a very welcome shock and the more our test team hammered different Performance, Performance Elite and Factory examples of the fork everywhere from super steep, pick your way rock steps in the Lake District to flat-out boulder runs or the subtle root and soil change nuances of natural trails the more it impressed. Despite that seamless connection to the trail over the small stuff, the spring rate means it never dives too deep into travel even when you’re panic stopping an E-bike. It also gives excellent support under cornering load and super precise but never overwhelming feedback for exactly what the tires are doing. As a result, despite the fact it’s structurally stiffer it actually feels smoother, more compliant and less tiring, while still tracking and nailing the most demanding line choices without hesitation or deviation. Or to put it another way, set up right this 38 feels like that perfect moment with buttered toast, when the bread is still crispy but the salty smoothness is fully fluid. There’s obviously a vegan alternative too, but plant-powered riders will have to find their own analogy. Either way however far you drop it from or badly you fumble a catch the 38 always seems to land right side up and give you plenty of ‘5-second rule’ time to clean up your act and carry on feasting on the fastest, rowdiest lines.

We need to point out that the printed pressure recommendations on the leg seem to be a little low if you’re an aggressive rider (it’s a common Fox trait) and inevitably more adjustability means more chance of getting things wrong if you don’t tune systematically. Fox has now made the tuning bandwidth fully useable though (even if you’re a light rider) so while some extremes of setup won’t be perfect they won’t be lethal either. That makes the whole fork more forgiving and while older Fox big hit forks had an air of ‘hardcore riders only’ intimidation and about them, pretty much anyone will love the way the 38 feels.

At this point, you need to remind yourself that it is extremely expensive though (the RockShox Zeb is over £300 less). You can get the Performance Elite (exactly the same but no gold Kashima stanchions) for £1,199 though and the Performance (same structure but bleed valves are an added extra and the damper is the simpler FIT GRIP). It’s a lot heavier than the 36, which gets most of the same tech as the 38 and feels equally fabulous if you don’t need the extra stiffness of its bigger brother. As we mentioned before though if you need a 170 or 180mm travel single crown fork the 38 is now you’re only Fox option.

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Fox’s 38 Factory is extremely expensive and significantly heavier than the similarly updated and superlative 36. That makes it more fork than most people actually need if they only need 160mm of travel. If you’re a mid-travel mauler or need 170 or 180mm though then the stiffer structure, actual air spring, the workaround of the accidental lower leg one, the leg alignment and inclusive rather than exclusive VVC damping performance all work together is fantastic. It’s more controlled, it’s more consistent, it’s more sensitive, responsive but still super supportive and despite being noticeably stiffer structurally it’s actually more comfortable, too.

Tech Specs: Fox 38 Factory Grip 2 fork

• Price: £1,299.00 / $1,199.00 / AU$2,288.99
• Weight: 2340g (160mm travel)
• Travel: 160 - 180mm travel (160mm tested)
• Colors: Factory orange, black, Ltd Ed Pistachio
• Sizes: 27.5 and 29er

Guy has been working on Bike Perfect since we launched in 2019. Hatched in Yorkshire he's been hardened by riding round it in all weathers since he was a kid. He spent a few years working in bike shops and warehouses before starting writing and testing for bike mags in 1996. Since then he’s written several million words about several thousand test bikes and a ridiculous amount of riding gear. To make sure he rarely sleeps and to fund his custom tandem habit, he’s also penned a handful of bike-related books and talks to a GoPro for YouTube, too.

Current rides: Cervelo ZFS-5, Forbidden Druid V2, Specialized Chisel, custom Nicolai enduro tandem, Landescape/Swallow custom gravel tandem

Height: 180cm

Weight: 69kg

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Best Trail & All-Mountain Bikes (130-160 mm travel)

Mid-travel full-suspension MTBs tend to cover a broader spectrum of mountain biking applications than other more specific MTB styles. With front and rear travel in the 130mm to 160mm range, these mountain bikes are usually classed as trail or all-mountain bikes.

These bikes are able to handle relatively mountainous conditions like rocky trails and singletracks but are less agile on descents than dedicated downhill MTBs. The suspension is usually just tight enough that it can still swallow up obstacles and vibration without losing too much speed and momentum while having a comfortable geometry to climb as well.

Check out the best models we recommend!

• You may also like: Best Full-Suspension Mountain Bikes

Best Full-Suspension Trail & All-Mountain Bikes

1 . ghost – riot am essential.

MSRP: $3,300 REI.com

The mighty Ghost Riot AM Essential stands out for its versatility and surprisingly high component level given the price.

Ghost chose a reliable RockShox Deluxe Select+ shock and FS-35 Silver fork, each with 160mm travel, modern trail bike geometry, and a one-piece rear triangle and rocker link that enhances stiffness and power transfer. 

The Riot AM Essentail is worthy of consideration for anyone looking for a bike made by a reliable brand with solid componentry. However, the downside of this bike is that the Shimano BR-MT500 brakeset with 180mm rotors isn’t powerful enough. 

• Drivetrain: Shimano Deore/SLX 12-speed, 10-51t
• Shock : 160mm travel RockShox Deluxe Select+
• Fork : 160mm RockShox FS-35 Silver
• Tires: Maxxis Minion DHF 2.5″/DHR 2.4″ EXO+ 

2 . Ibis Ripmo SLX

MSRP: $6,699

The new Ibis Ripmo SLX is one of the best trail mountain bikes on the market today, built around a premium full carbon frame with internal cabling and 2.6″ tire clearance.

It features a Shimano SLX 12-speed drivetrain with SLX M7120 hydraulic disc brakes and 160mm and 147mm DW-Link suspension. 

With high travel suspension, the Ibis Ripmo is clearly intended for rougher terrain than most trail bikes. So lower the dropper post and charge down steep declines with stability and confidence, knowing the Maxxis Assegai 2.5″ EXO+ tires have your back.

• Frame: Carbon
• Fork : 160mm, Fox Float Factory 38
• Shock : 147mm Fox Float Factory X2
• Drivetrain: Shimano SLX 12-speed

Buy on Mike's Bikes

3 . Cannondale – Moterra Neo 4

Best all-around e-mountain bike by a well-known bike brand

MSRP: $5,900 REI

Cannondale’s Moterra Neo 4 delivers an impressive combination of smart design, modern technology, and carefully chosen components.

The progressive geometry is low on the ground with a long wheelbase, steep seat tube, and slack head angle. This makes for a stable and comfortable ride on chunky descents.

Travel is at 150mm front and rear. This makes the Moterra Neo 4 an ideal enduro bike, best for charging down singletrack and through rock gardens. The RockShox suspension and SRAM SX groupset are solid choices, with Cannondale using its own in-house handlebar and stem.

• Fork : 150mm, RockShox Recon RL Silver 
• Shock : 150mm, RockShox Deluxe Select R
• SmartForm C2 Aluminum

4 . Yeti – SB130 CLR Factory (Lunch Ride)

MSRP: $7,400 Jenson USA

This top-quality, versatile carbon all-mountain bike from Yeti will take you anywhere you want to go. Whether attacking flat desert terrain or rocky mountain passes, you’ll find the SB130 29er adapts to whatever you throw at it.

The C-Series Lunch Ride version of the Yeti SB130 features more capable geometry, tires, and longer-travel suspension.

With Yeti’s Switch Infinity suspension platform, this bike has super efficient pedaling and an almost bottomless feel.  

Some standout components include the Fox Factory Float X 147mm shock, Factory 36 160mm travel fork, Fox Transfer Dropper, SRAM Code R 4-Piston, and Maxxis Assegai 2.5″ EXO+ and Minion DHRII 2.4″ EXO+ tires. 

• Fork : Fox Performance 36 160mm travel
• Shock : Fox Performance Float X 147mm
• Drivetrain: SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed
• Frame: Carbon C-Series

Buy from Jenson USA

5 . Santa Cruz – Hightower 2

MSRP: $5,499 Evo.com

The Santa Cruz Hightower fits the needs of an advanced mountain biker and is one of the best-rated mountain bikes for trail riding.

The Hightower comes in aluminum or carbon frame versions, with SRAM gears, Maxxis tires, and high-quality suspension. The Hightower is on our list as it is considered one of the more capable bikes in its category.

The Hightower C R Kit features a carbon frame with VPP suspension and flip-chip tuning. It has 150mm of front travel on the Fox Yari RC and 145mm on the rear with a Fox Float DPS Performance shock.

• Fork : 150mm, Fox Yari RC
• Shock : 145mm, Fox Float DPS Performance shock
• Drivetrain: SRAM NX Eagle
• Frame: Carbon fiber

Buy on Evo.com

6 . Niner – RIP 9 RDO 2-Star

MSRP: $4,799 Jenson USA

The Niner RDO 2-Star is a high-performance trail 29er with a mid-range price. It comes packed with excellent technology like CVA suspension, full-sleeve internal cable routing, and an SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain.

The RDO Carbon frame uses progressive and adjustable geometry that can handle a huge variety of trail scenarios. With 140mm of rear Fox Float X Performance EVOL 2 shock combined with a Fox 36 Float Rhythm fork the RIP 9 RDO 2-Star is the perfect bike for charging along singletrack and bouncing over rock gardens.

• Fork : Fox 36 Float Rhythm 150mm
• Shock: Fox Float X Performance EVOL 2 140mm
• Drivetrain: SRAM SX Eagle
• Frame: RDO Carbon

Buy on Jenson USA

7 . Juliana – Furtado

MSRP: $5,799 Mike’s Bikes

Juliana is one of the top mountain bike brands for women, having developed the first female-specific MTB back in 1999. The new 27.5″ Furtado is a carbon full-suspension trail bike with lower link suspension for better traction and a low center of gravity for stability. It’s built supreme maneuverability on all types of off-road terrain, whether you’re going downhill or uphill.

The Furtado benefits from RockShox Super Deluxe Select+ shock with a RockShox Pike Select+ fork that provides 140mm of travel. Combine this with SRAM G2 R hydraulic disc brakes and Maxxis Minion DHR 2.4″ tires and you get a MTB that closely resembles the excellent Santa Cruz Hightower.

• Fork : 140m, RockShox Pike Select+ 
• Shock : 130mm RockShox Super Deluxe Select+
• SRAM GX Eagle
• Carbon C frame

Buy from Mike's Bikes

8 . Revel – Rascal XT

MSRP: $7,199 evo.com

For pro-level competitive riders, Revel mountain bikes have created the Rascal: a full carbon dream team of killer components and groundbreaking technology. For maximum pedaling efficiency, the Rascal’s Japanese Toray fiber frame utilizes the Canfield Balance Formula (CBF) to focus 100% of your power into the chainring, providing you with solid, stable speed over any terrain.

Add a RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate shock and a Pike Ultimate fork, and the ground seems to melt away below while you float around corners and over obstacles with ease. This is all driven by Shimano’s podium-winning XT M8100 drivetrain and controlled by the solid XT 8120 hydraulic braking system. For the trail, all-mountain, or even enduro, you’ll struggle to find a better MTB than the Revel Rascal.

• Fork: 140mm Fox Float 36 Factory
• Rear Shock : 130mm RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate
• Carbon fiber

Buy on evo.com

9 . Marin – Alpine Trail Carbon 2

MSRP: $4,499 Jenson USA

Marin Bikes is a renowned mountain bike brand for those who like affordability and reliability from a MTB company.

The Alpine Trail Carbon 2 is the premium model of this 29er series, offering excellent climbing and descending abilities in one package.

Quality components include a 12-speed Shimano SLX M7100 groupset, a Fox 38 Performance Elite, 160mm fork, a 150mm Float X Performance shock, and Maxxis Assegai 2.5″ Maxx Terra/Assegai 2.5″ Maxx Grip tires. 

With Marin’s proprietary MultiTrac suspension, you get a balanced platform that improves efficiency and bottom-out control simultaneously. When the aggressive geometry of the Alpine Trail is combined with high travel suspension, it makes for an adaptable all-mountain bike that can tackle every kind of ride.

• Fork : Fox 38 Performance Elite 160mm
• Rear Shock : Fox Float X Performance 150mm
• Frame: Carbon fiber front triangle, alloy rear triangle

10 . Transition – Sentinel X01

MSRP: $5,250 evo.com

This 29″ beast from Transition bikes pairs 150mm of rear with 160mm of front travel, putting it on the high-end of mid-travel MTBs. You’ll feel just as comfortable hitting jumps or tackling steep drops with this bike, as you will charging over rock gardens and along a single track.

It’s the perfect all-rounder and it comes in a range of builds, with drivetrains ranging from SRAM NX Eagle and Shimano Deore XT to the GX Eagle and SRAM’s top-quality X01. The top range X01 combines Fox Float suspension with SRAM Code RSC disc brakes, leaving you with nothing but confidence as the mountainside blurs past beneath you.

• Fork : 160mm, Fox Float 36 Grip 2 Factory
• Rear Shock : Fox Float X2 Factory 2-Position
• SRAM X01 Eagle

11 . Orbea – Occam H30

MSRP: $2.999 Jenson USA

The Orbea Occam is a high-performance MTB for a relatively low price, considering it boasts a hydroformed aluminum with a Shimano Deore groupset and high-quality suspension. You even get an OC MC20 dropper post and internal cable routing.

The lightweight setup makes for easy, all-day riding, and with 140mm of front and rear travel you can take on a variety of terrain. A broad gearing range takes the pain out of uphills, and solid Shimano hydraulic brakes make steep descents easy to control.

• Fork: 140mm, Marzocchi Bomber Z2
• Rear Shock : 140mm, Fox Float DPS Performance
• Shimano Deore 1×12-speed

Buy on JensonUSA.com

12 . Rocky Mountain – Instinct Carbon 50

MSRP: $5,809 Jenson USA

For a top-quality and highly versatile all-mountain bike, look no further than the Rocky Mountain Instinct Carbon 50, with a Smoothwall carbon frame built to accommodate 29″ wheels.

Sure, it’s not the cheapest on the market, but with a 1×12 Shimano XT drivetrain and SLX 4-piston hydraulic brakes, we’d expect nothing less.

The lightweight frame uses Rocky Mountain’s RIDE-9 adjustable geometry, progressive sizing, and high-end suspension components for a premium trail feel. 

Highlights of this bike include the Fox 36 Float Performance 150mm fork, Fox Float DPS Performance 140mm shock, Maxxis Minion DHF 2.5 and DHR II  MaxxTerra EXO+ tires, and the smooth shifting XT drivetrain. 

• Fork : 150mm, Fox 36 Float Performance
• Rear Shock : 140mm, Fox Float DPS Performance 
• Drivetrain: Shimano XT

13 . Devinci – Troy C/A29 GX

MSRP: $5,419 Jenson USA

Devinci is a lesser-known bicycle brand that produces highly affordable MTBs and gravel bikes. The Troy 29er uses Split-Pivot suspension on a premium carbon/aluminum frame with 150mm of travel for a customizable feel with better compliance and traction.

As one of the best full-suspension bikes on this list, the Troy has surprisingly good front and rear suspension, supplied by Fox. It includes an adjustable Flip Chip for quick changing between Hi/Lo mode. The brakes are SRAM Code R four-piston hydraulic discs with Race Face AR35 Offset TR rims and Maxxis Minion DHF/DHR II tires.

• Fork : 150mm Fox Float 36 Performance GRIP
• Rear Shock : 150mm Fox Float DPX2 Performance Elite 
• Drivetrain: SRAM GX 12-speed
• Frame: Carbon front triangle, aluminum rear triangle

14 . Diamondback – Release 3

MSRP: $4,100 REI

The Release is a 29″ Diamondback full-suspension mountain bike with an aluminum frame, providing a stiff and durable ride without raising the price too high. It rides on a top-quality Fox Performance Float setup with 140mm front and 130mm rear travel and Diamondback’s Level Link suspension platform, an ideal balance of speed and absorption. Additionally, a Shimano XT M8100 12-speed drivetrain offers tough components where you need them most.

No corners are cut on the wheels though, with Diamondback Blanchard running Maxxis Minion DHF/DHR 29 x 2.3″ tires, a combination that is well supported by Shimano XT M8100 hydraulic disc brakes. Overall, the Release is a killer trail bike that expertly keeps down costs without sacrificing quality, resulting in great value for money.

• Fork : 140mm, Fox 34 Performance Float
• Rear Shock : 130mm, Fox Performance Float DPX2
• Shimano XT 12-speed
• Aluminum frame

Buy on REI.com Buy on GovVelo.com

15 . Marin – Rift Zone

MSRP: $1,899 Jenson USA

The Rift Zone is a highly affordable MTB from Marin that combines impressive frame design with reliable components. On the frame, you get stiff, lightweight Series 3 6061 aluminum with Boost spacing, has ISCG05 tabs, and internal cable routing.

• Fork : 1RockShox Recon Silver RL 130mm
• Rear Shock : X-Fusion O2 Pro R, Custom Tune 120mm
• Shimano Deore, 11-Speed

With a balanced 130mm of front and 120mm rear travel from RockShox and X-Fusion, you will be able to descend with ease. Shimano BR-MT200 hydraulic disc brakes and a high-ratio Shimano Deore11-Speed drivetrain ensure you won’t struggle to keep up with the best out there. You don’t need to be a genius to know that this bike offers excellent value for money. 

Buy on Jenson USA Buy on GovVelo.com

16 . Yeti – SB140 TLR T2

MSRP: $9,100 Jenson USA

A pro mountain bike for pro riders, the Yeti SB140 TLR T2 is as much a mouthful as it is a bike packed full of features. Hop on and feel the ground smooth out before you as the Fox Factory suspension swallows up vibrations and the SRAM X01 drivetrain powers you forward without faltering.

• Fork : 160mm, Fox Factory 36 GRIP 2
• Rear Shock : Fox Float X Factory
• TURQ-series Carbon fiber

With a huge 160mm of upfront travel, you’ll have no trouble taking on big jumps or steep drops, with a Fox Factory Transfer dropper seat post giving you the space you need. The stiff SB140 carbon frame complements low-slung stability with an aggressive 65-degree head angle, resulting in a fast and fun all-mountain trail bike that excels in extreme conditions.

17 . Evil – Following LS 

MSRP: $6,450 Evo.com

Evil is one of those underrated mountain bike brands that seldom fail to impress. The carbon-framed Following comes in various groupset flavors , with the one pictured featuring SRAM GX Eagle running a 12-speed drivetrain with SRAM G2 RS disc brakes and RockShox suspension.

• Fork: 130mm Rockshox Pike Ultimate Charger 2 RC2
• Rear Shock : 121mm RockShox Deluxe Ultimate RCT

It’s an agile 29″ trail charger that can tackle rough terrain with a decent 130mm of upfront travel on a RockShox Pike Ultimate fork. The bike has a fun feel to it, bouncing along with confidence and just an edge of excitement. With this setup, the Maxxis Minion DHF tires work especially well wrapped on Industry Nine Enduro S rims.

18 . Cannondale – Habit 4

MSRP: $3,025 REI

The Cannondale Habit 4 29er is a burly trail machine designed with speed in mind.

A RockShox 35 Gold RL 140mm fork and Deluxe Select+ 130mm shock allow for some aggressive riding, while the progressive geometry and Proportional Response design make for a consistent ride across the sizes. 

• Fork : RockShox 35 Gold RL 140mm
• Rear Shock : RockShox Deluxe Select+  130mm
• Drivetrain: SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed
• Frame: Aluminum

Both the SRAM SX drivetrain and two-piston Shimano disc brakes are great parts that are trail-proven. The slack geometry and Maxxis Minion DHF 2.5″ and Aggressor 2.4″ EXO tires also make it easier to tackle chunky terrain with confidence. 

Buy on REI.com

19 . Ibis Ripley XT

MSRP:   $6,999

Ibis has long been touted as one of the best mountain bike brands worldwide and its flagship Ripley XT carbon trail bike hammers home that truth with a premium component list and ultra-light design. 

With 130mm of front and 120mm of rear travel, supported by DWLink suspension and V5 Kinematics, the Ripley is the perfect carbon trail bike.

• Fork : Fox Float 34 Factory Series, 130mm Travel
• Rear Shock : Fox Float 34 Factory Series, 130mm Travel
• Drivetrain:  Shimano XT M8100 Shadow Plus

The steep 76-degree seat tube and high ratio 1×12 Shimano XT drivetrain make hill climbing a cinch, while the XT M8120 4-piston disc brakes combined with thick Maxxis DHRII/Dissector 29 x 2.4″ tires ensure descents are safe and nimble.

Notable extra details include internal cable routing and an ISCG mount plus a polycarbonate downtube protector.

20 . Norco – Sight A1

MSRP: $5,599 Jenson USA

The Norco Sight A1 is a 29er aluminum bike fitted with premium RockShox suspension and designed with Norco’s Ride Aligned Design System for exceptional ride characteristics. This bike has excellent climbing and descending capabilities. 

• Fork : RockShox Lyrik Ultimate RC2, 160mm
• Rear Shock : RockShox Super Deluxe Select+ RT, 150mm

Norco bikes produced the Sight with ease in mind, so you can spend longer in the mountains supported by a 12-speed a SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain should power run low. Additionally, Maxxis Assegai and Dissector tires and SRAM Code RSC four-piston hydraulic disc brakes keep you in control at all times. 

21 . Santa Cruz – 5010 5 C R

MSRP: $5,300 Mike’s Bikes

The 5010 5 C R from Santa Cruz Bicycles is a powerful trail bike designed for agility and speed. This bike benefits from pure MTB DNA from Santa Cruz, with a lightweight Carbon C frame that tears through the countryside, powered by a high ratio SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain and Guide T hydraulic disc brakes.

• Fork : RockShox Pike Base, 140mm
• Rear Shock : Fox Float Performance DPS 130mm
• SRAM NX Eagle

Utilizing Santa Cruz’s proprietary VPP suspension link system, this bike rides like a high-end bike. For any adventurous rock hoppers out there, you get 140mm of front and 130mm of rear travel to absorb the impact of those particularly courageous maneuvers.

Charge along with confidence knowing your innovative suspension system and Maxxis Minion DHR II tires will ensure you stay on track.

Buy on Mike's Bikes Read Our Full Review

22 . Devinci Marshall

MSRP: $2,649

The Devinci Marshall is a serious alloy beast with more to give than you could read from the specs.

Besides having all the boxes ticked to conquer the rough and smoother trails with ease, what stands out the most is the mixture of solid mid-range components from TranzX dropper seat post, Maxxis Minion tires, and of course, the SRAM SX Eagle derailleur.

Finally, the bike comes with an 11-50t cassette and SRAM’s Level T precise hydraulic disc brakes that will stop you on a dime.

• Fork – RockShox 35 Silver TK SoloAir
• Rear Shock – RockShox Deluxe Select R Debonair
• Aluminum Optimum G04 Frame
• SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain

Buy from evo.com

23 . Norco – Fluid FS 1

MSRP: $3,399 Evo.com

The Norco Fluid FS 1 is an affordable trail bike that combines a dependable Shimano SLX/XT drivetrain with a supple RockShox Pike Select 130mm fork, Deluxe Select 120mm shock, and aluminum frame.

The design of spec of this bike results in respectable performance without breaking the bank. It’s a great intermediate full-suspension bike for trail or XC riding without any extreme jumps or drops.

• Fork : RockShox Pike Select 130mm
• Rear Shock : RockShox Deluxe Select 120mm shock
• Drivetrain: Shimano SLX/XT 12-speed

Norco’s progressive design and modern trail geometry lend to this bike’s playful and confident trail performance. It has the perfect amount of suspension to ride comfortably along rocky singletrack and mountainous trails without swallowing up all your power.

Buy from Evo.com

Buying Guide

Ibis Ripmo – Big Wheel, Big Travel Speed Demon. What’s great about this bike is that Ibis Cycles manufacturers their own set of 29″ carbon wheels that can accomodate tires up to 2.8″ in width. “

What to Expect & How to Choose?

Trail bikes have quickly become the most common form of full-suspension MTBs, designed to tackle all forms of terrain while maintaining comfort over a long distance. Trail bikes fall between XC and Enduro bikes, offering sufficient downhill handling while retaining speed over flatter sections.

They usually have a seat tube angle in the 74-75 degree range, with shorter chainstays and longer reach. Travel ranges from as little as 120mm all the way up to 160mm, with both 29″ and 27.5″ wheel sizes popular.

You should consider your style of riding before selecting a mid-travel MTB. While they all have similar characteristics, the type of riding you intend on doing will define how much travel is ideal. 

Suspension Travel

If you enjoy charging downhill or attempting small jumps, you’ll want to choose something in the higher travel range . If you prefer racing along bumpy off-road or gravel tracks at high speed, aim for something in the lower travel range .

Wheels & Tires

Other points to consider include wheel and tire size. Larger 29″ wheels are better for speed and absorption, whereas the small 27.5″ wheel size is more agile on downhills and sharp corners. 2.5″ width is somewhat average, while 2.8″ is considered as wide.

Different MTB Disciplines

Xc vs. trail.

Cross-country (XC) is generally considered the most traditional mountain bike style with the most versatile usage. Hence the name, Cross-Country Mountain Bikes can handle all types of terrain from smooth singletrack and gravel roads to rocky trails and technical mountain tracks.

XC mountain bikes typically have a shorter wheelbase for agility and steeper geometry for easier hill climbing. Head angles are in the range of 69-71 degrees, with seat tube angles between 74-75 degrees. They usually have the lowest amount of travel, from 90-100mm , and 29″ wheels for a faster, stiffer ride.

>>> Related: Best Short-Travel Mountain Bikes (100-130mm range)

Trail/All-Mountain vs. Enduro

Enduro bikes attempt to combine aggressive downhill geometry with uphill climbing ability, resulting in a bike that can tackle highly technical courses over varied terrain. 

They typically have the longest, lowest, and slackest geometry of all MTB styles, making them less comfortable over long distances, but also more versatile. They are both stable on downhills and powerful on ascents, with suspension in the 150-180mm range and tires from 2.3″ to 2.8″ thick.

>>> Related: Best Enduro Mountain Bikes (150-180mm range)

27.5″ vs. 29″ – The Endless Debate

Mountain bike wheel sizes have become a hot topic recently, after years of 26″ wheels dominating the market. Since the 29″ wheels began gaining popularity in the mid-2010s, manufacturers began experimenting with different wheel sizes, introducing the mid-sized 27.5″ or also known as the 650b wheel size. Nowadays, almost all MTBs use either 29″ or 27.5″, with subtle but noticeable differences between the two. You’ll still find 26″ wheels on smaller frame sizes on some models.

• Being larger, 29″ wheels are better for taller riders and while they offer less acceleration, they have better traction and attack angle which eventually means better speed .
• 27.5″ wheels are faster and lighter , with better maneuverability and greater versatility .

27.5″ MTB wheels are also known to have the availability to fit wider tires of up to 3″ in width, while the standard max clearance for 29″ tires is 2.6″

>>> Related: Best Mullet Mountain Bikes

Which are the best mountain bike brand on this list?

Ibis, Yeti, Santa Cruz, Revel, Transition, and Evil are some of the boutique-type brands in the MTB business, while Salsa has the most models available. Cannondale has also done a great job providing online shoppers with a variety of mountain bikes from their fleet.

What is the best all-mountain bike?

The different types of mountain bikes might confuse most riders, but it isn’t actually as confusing. An all-mountain bike is basically built 70% for ascending and 30% descending, making it a few notches harder to ride than the regular trail bike.

Do you need the rear suspension lock-up switch?

Climbing is a part of mountain biking, and if you tend to be the climber who climbs while seated, a rear suspension-lock-up switch might be useful for you. The switch works wonders on longer-travel bikes with slacker geometry, while you’ll generally see the switches on higher-end models.

Where to buy trail and all-mountain bikes?

These are the best online bike shops to buy mountain bikes online

Mike’s Bikes Awesome set of high-end and mid-range mountain bikes, both full-suspension and hardtail

JensonUSA Obviously one of the more known stores that will fix you up a good deal

Evo.com   Bikes & frames by the best brands available

GravityCoalition You can find pretty sweet last-size deals there on full-suspension and eBikes as well.

REI Cannondale, Co-op Cycles, and Salsa mountain bikes are represented.

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About the Author

Mark Hartley

One thought on “ best trail & all-mountain bikes (130-160 mm travel) ”.

How come no Banshees on this list?

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The trains and stations of the Moscow Metro

2 Comments · Posted by Alex Smirnov in Cities , Travel , Video

The Moscow Metro is the third most intensive subway system in the world after Tokyo and Seoul subways. The first line was opened on May 15, 1935. Since 1955, the metro has the name of V.I. Lenin.

The system consists of 12 lines with a total length of 305.7 km. Forty four stations are recognized cultural heritage. The largest passenger traffic is in rush hours from 8:00 to 9:00 and from 18:00 to 19:00.

Cellular communication is available on most of the stations of the Moscow Metro. In March 2012, a free Wi-Fi appeared in the Circle Line train. The Moscow Metro is open to passengers from 5:20 to 01:00. The average interval between trains is 2.5 minutes.

The fare is paid by using contactless tickets and contactless smart cards, the passes to the stations are controlled by automatic turnstiles. Ticket offices and ticket vending machines can be found in station vestibules.

Tags:  Moscow city

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Tomás · August 27, 2012 at 11:34 pm

The Moscow metro stations are the best That I know, cars do not.

Alberto Calvo · September 25, 2016 at 8:57 pm

Great videos! Moscow Metro is just spectacular. I actually visited Moscow myself quite recently and wrote a post about my top 7 stations, please check it out and let me know what you think! :)

http://www.arwtravels.com/blog/moscow-metro-top-7-stations-you-cant-miss

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Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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