Fox is always pushing the limits of their F-Series forks -- after all, they are the bread-and-butter forks of the line, because they're always at the head of the class. We'll they've done it again for 2009, bringing a new option to market -- the . Thru axles have been used in recent years in longer travel applications to enhance strength and stiffness, as the added weight is not as much a focal point. Each year the weights of both the forks and thru axles have come down, technology has improved, and lightweight thru axle options are everywhere -- now Fox introduces the 15QR thru axle to their 32 series forks, used primarily in XC applications.

15QR is centered around a 15 x 100 thru axle system engineered by Shimano in conjunction with Fox. The benefits are simple -- it's all about strength and stiffness. Fox touts a 15 percent increase in torsional stiffness (twisting action), and a 25 percent increase in transverse shear stiffness (bending action). It shines, and it is absolutely perceptible -- this is an ideal fork for an out-of-the-saddle climber, larger rider, or those who want to optimize their cornering abilities. And, the 15QR is as easy, or easier to remove the wheel -- simply flip the lever down, spin it a few times, and pull it out. Reverse the process to install. A small detail (but terrific one) is that Shimano engineered an adjustable set nut that allows you to set your quick release in your desired position every time. You set this once, and the deed is done. If you like your lever up (12 o'clock position) in front of the fork leg -- it'll be there every time. If you like it pointing back (3 o'clock position) in an "aero" fashion, it'll be there every time. You decide. You set it. You forget it.

You'll notice the weight of the 15QR is slightly heavier than the equivalent non-15QR model. This is because it includes the axle, whereas normally this is a weight associated with your hub/wheelset. Fox states for many models the weight difference will be a wash for the system as a whole -- fork + axle/QR. For the longer travel forks, there will actually be a small weight savings of up to 26 grams.

A critical detail is that the 15QR fork requires the use of a specific 15 x 100 hub/wheelset. Currently there are options from Shimano (naturally), DT Swiss, and rumors are circulating that Mavic will also introduce a wheelset using 15QR. We anticipate that Industry Nine will address the demand for 15QR as well in the form of a conversion kit.

The improvements begin with the chassis, the steerer, fork crown, and stanchions. These tubes are each optimized and lightened for their specific travel. The F80 has thinner walls than the F100, which has thinner walls than the F120. The fork crown is new for 2009, hollow, lighter and still plenty stiff. The new lowers are quad-tapered to lean them out where there is room for lightening. And at the very bottom are lightweight post-mounts for your disc brake. For ease of maintenance and durability, there is an integrated disc brake cable guide. For those who ride with long-fingered gloves, the ergonomic lockout lever is easy to use because there's more to grab, and it's harder to accidentally move the low-speed compression or rebound settings.

The ride is just like the 2008 F-Series RLC -- only better. This light fork is considered a cross-country fork -- ideal for climbing, great for descending, tracks beautifully, and has more than enough adjustments to keep you fiddling until the ride is perfect.

The Fox 32 F100 RLC 15QR fork has 100mm of travel. The travel can be reduced to 80mm if a 20mm spacer is inserted in the fork. The stanchions are 32mm in diameter. The fork is air sprung, which is adjustable, as is rebound, lockout force adjust, low speed compression, and lockout. The lockout is activated via a lever atop the stanchion. The damper is oil in an open bath. The disc specific lowers are white. This fork works only with 15QR compatible hubs. 1616g (3.56lbs).

Click here to view our set-up video.

US Fox dealers are prohibited from shipping Fox Forks outside the US.