RockShox launch Paragon suspension fork aimed at urban and trekking riders

The roads are getting rougher, and one solution is to fit a suspension fork to your bike, such as the newly launched Paragon from RockShox. The fork provides between 50 and 65mm of air sprung suspension, easily adjustable and can be locked out, in a package weighing 1,846g (4.07lb).

RockShox are clearly pitching this fork at what it calls urban and trekking cyclists, who probably will appreciate the wrist-saving suspension over the higher weight compared to a rigid fork. The fork taps into the company's 25 years experience of producing mostly mountain bike suspension parts – but there have been occasional forays into the road market before – with a purpose-built 700c trekking platform.

Inside the fork is RockShox's Solo Air spring, which is easily adjustable with a shock pump.  The fork can be locked out, which potentially opens it up to use for a multi-terrain bike, such as a cyclo-cross inspired bike – lock the fork out on the road and open it up on the gravel tracks and bridleways.

It's touring and urban riding where the fork is intended to be ridden though. We can see it fitting on a frame like the Genesis Equilibrium quite nicely. It has been designed with dynamo hubs in mind, the wiring from the hub can be neatly concealed alng the fork leg up t he fork brace, where a lamp can be fitted with an integrated mount. There are mudguard mounts and clearance, without a mudguard, is good for 45mm tyres. It's compatible with disc or caliper mounts.

The fork is compatible with lights and mudguards from SKS, Fuxon, Supernova, Spanninga, Trelock and B+M.

The Paragon fork costs €225. No word on when it will be available yet. More at www.sram.com/rockshox