"iRD" or Intelligent Ride Dynamics is the name of the new division at Fox, in which the suspension elements are controlled electronically. The "Float iCD" fork has the task of switching even faster between uphill and downhill mode thanks to an electronic lockout. The lockout requires only minimal manual force and does not require any major movements of the hand on the handlebars to select the different modes.

The "Float iCD" damper can be controlled simultaneously with the lockout for the fork, the remote control then includes the "Descend", "Climb - rear only" and "Climb" modes. In climbing mode, the suspension elements have a tight low-speed compression setting. The remote lever includes a low battery indicator and can be mounted on the left or right of the handlebar. The command from the steering center should be implemented on the fork in 0.25 seconds, while it takes 0.45 seconds for the damper to select a different mode.

About the battery: Fox cooperates with Shimano here and uses the "Di2" technology known from electronic road bike shifting. The battery, the cables and the communication protocol come from the Japanese component giant. With a diagnostic and programming interface, Fox also offers end customers the option of carrying out system diagnostics and customizing the remote control settings. According to Fox, the battery lasts at least 2-3 months before the system has to be connected to the power supply.

Fox offers the electronic lockout system for Float forks with 100 and 120 millimeters of travel. For a 100-millimeter fork for 26-inch tires with quick-release dropouts, Fox specifies a weight of 1555 grams, which includes the lockout actuator on the fork, the battery, the battery holder, the wiring and a plug. For the full suspension system with the above fork and equipment in combination with an electric float shock, Fox specifies a weight of 1860 grams. According to Fox, the new electric suspensions will be available on the market for the first time in September 2012.

www.ridefox.com