X-fusion Microlite Shock

As the name suggests, the Microlite shock is designed with weight reduction in mind. Our 184x44mm sample hit the scales at 195g saving around 50g when compared to a regular inline shock.

X-Fusion makes a wide range of suspension components and most are very adjustable. The Microlite however is a pared down and simple offering. The main air spring is tuneable (as you’d expect) and the rebound can be set to match the spring rate. There’s also a lockout lever but that’s about it. You won’t find any low speed compression adjustment or threshold settings—it’s either ‘on’ or ‘off’ and nothing in between.

Compared to the current generation Fox Float rear shock (a product that many will be familiar with), the Microlite has an inherently progressive spring curve. It starts out supple but ramps up to offer plenty of bottom-out resistance.

Of course your frame kinematics will always play an important role in how a shock feels. Most shorter travel XC bikes tend to have a linear or regressive leverage ratio. This makes them firmer in the early travel while still moving for mid-sized bumps but it doesn’t afford lots of bottom out resistance. The progressive nature of the Microlite is well suited to this type of bike; it adds suppleness over smaller bumps but doesn’t slam to the bottom or wallow excessively when pushed. Despite its diminutive size I had no issues with the shock on long and rough descents—it performed very well. However, if your suspension arrangement is progressive to begin with, you mightn’t use all of the available travel—even on the biggest hits. With the Microlite there aren’t any large volume air canister options; it simply isn’t as tuneable as a heavier, fully featured shock.

At $480 the Microlite is well priced for a high quality rear shock and its performance should provide a good match for most modern XC platforms. It’s worth considering if you’re focused on weight reduction and happy to forgo some tunability.

Distributed by DIY MTB (02) 4446 4636 www.diymtb.com.au