Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the DVO Onyx SC 29 D2 Disc 170mm fork. This isn't just any fork; it's a beast designed for aggressive trail riding and enduro adventures. If you're looking to upgrade your ride, or just curious about what makes this fork tick, you're in the right place. We'll cover everything from its features and performance to maintenance and potential repairs. Let's get started, shall we?

Unveiling the DVO Onyx SC 29 D2: Core Features

The DVO Onyx SC 29 D2 is a force to be reckoned with, designed for 29-inch wheels and offering 170mm of travel. This fork is all about providing incredible control and stability on the gnarliest trails. Let's break down some of its key features:

• Travel and Wheel Size: As mentioned, it boasts 170mm of travel, perfect for soaking up big hits and rough terrain. It's specifically designed for 29-inch wheels, ensuring optimal roll-over and handling characteristics.
• Damping Technology: The Onyx SC utilizes DVO's sophisticated damping technology, typically the OTT (Off The Top) adjustment. This feature allows riders to fine-tune the initial stroke sensitivity, making the fork incredibly supple over small bumps while providing excellent support for larger impacts. This is a game-changer for overall ride quality, offering a plush feel and reducing hand fatigue on long descents. The compression and rebound adjustments allows you to further dial in the fork's performance to match your riding style and trail conditions. The compression circuit is split into high and low speed compression.
• Chassis and Construction: Built with a sturdy chassis, the Onyx SC is designed to withstand the rigors of aggressive riding. Typically made from high-quality materials such as aluminum, the fork is both lightweight and incredibly durable. The stanchions, often 36mm or 38mm, are designed for stiffness and precision, offering excellent tracking and control.
• Adjustability: One of the standout features of the DVO Onyx is its extensive adjustability. Riders can fine-tune compression, rebound, and air spring pressure to suit their weight, riding style, and trail conditions. This level of customization ensures that you can get the perfect feel for your ride, maximizing performance and confidence.
• Disc Brake Compatibility: Designed with modern disc brake standards in mind, the Onyx SC is compatible with various rotor sizes, ensuring reliable stopping power even on the steepest descents.

Why This Fork Stands Out

What makes the DVO Onyx SC 29 D2 special? It's the blend of performance, adjustability, and durability. DVO has a reputation for creating forks that deliver exceptional performance, and the Onyx SC is no exception. It's designed to provide a smooth, controlled ride, no matter how rough the trail gets. The adjustability allows riders to tailor the fork to their specific needs, ensuring maximum enjoyment and control. This fork is made for riders who demand the best and aren't afraid to push their limits.

Setting Up Your DVO Onyx SC 29 D2 Fork: A Step-by-Step Guide

Setting up your new DVO Onyx SC 29 D2 fork is crucial for getting the most out of your ride. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you dial it in:

1. Air Pressure: The most crucial first step is to get the correct air pressure. Start by consulting the DVO air spring chart, usually found on the fork leg or DVO's website. This chart provides recommended air pressures based on your weight. Remember, this is a starting point. Adjust the pressure based on your feel and the sag you achieve.
2. Sag Measurement: Sag is the amount the fork compresses when you're sitting on your bike in a riding position. Aim for around 20-30% sag for trail and enduro riding. To measure sag, put a zip tie around the stanchion of the fork. Get on your bike in your riding position. Then get off the bike without compressing the fork. Measure the distance the zip tie moved. Adjust the air pressure to achieve the desired sag.
3. OTT Adjustment: OTT stands for Off The Top, and it is a key feature of the DVO fork. This adjustability affects the small bump sensitivity. Turning the OTT adjustment (usually found at the bottom of the air spring leg) will change the negative spring preload, which affects the fork's initial sensitivity. Start with the recommended setting and adjust from there. Most riders start with a few turns from fully open (counterclockwise) for a plusher feel. Experiment with different settings to find what feels best for you.
4. Compression Adjustment: The Onyx SC usually has both high-speed and low-speed compression adjustments. High-speed compression controls how the fork responds to large impacts and high-speed bumps, while low-speed compression affects how it handles smaller bumps and rider input. Start with the compression damping in the middle and adjust from there, based on the trail conditions. For example, on smoother trails, you might want less compression damping for a more responsive feel, while on rougher trails, more compression damping can provide better control.
5. Rebound Adjustment: Rebound controls how quickly the fork returns to its full travel after compression. Adjust the rebound based on the trail conditions and your riding style. Too much rebound can make the fork feel harsh and bouncy, while too little rebound can make it feel sluggish. Find a setting where the fork returns smoothly without feeling uncontrolled. If you are having trouble, start in the middle and change it from there.
6. Fine-Tuning: After making these initial adjustments, take your bike out for a ride and fine-tune the settings based on your experience. Pay attention to how the fork feels over different types of terrain. Does it bottom out too easily? Does it feel harsh over small bumps? Adjust the settings accordingly until you achieve the desired performance.

Pro Tip for Setting Up

Make small adjustments and test them on the trail. Keep a notepad or use a phone app to record your settings so you can easily revert to previous setups. This will help you narrow down the perfect setup for your riding style and the trails you frequent.

Maintaining Your DVO Onyx SC 29 D2 Fork: Keeping It Running Smoothly

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your DVO Onyx SC 29 D2 fork running smoothly and extending its lifespan. Here's a basic maintenance schedule:

1. Cleaning After Each Ride: After every ride, wipe down the fork stanchions with a clean cloth to remove any dirt or debris. This prevents damage to the seals and ensures smooth performance.
2. Lower Leg Service (50 Hours or As Needed): This is a more involved service. It involves removing the lowers of the fork, cleaning and inspecting the seals, and lubricating the internal components. This service should be performed every 50 hours of riding or more frequently if you ride in harsh conditions. This is the most crucial maintenance step. Inspect the fork legs for any signs of wear or damage.
3. Full Service (100 Hours): A full service, which involves a complete disassembly, cleaning, and replacement of seals and oil, should be performed every 100 hours of riding or annually. This ensures optimal performance and prevents premature wear. This step is a very important one.
4. Check for Damage: Regularly inspect the fork for any signs of damage, such as dents, scratches, or oil leaks. If you notice any issues, address them promptly to prevent further damage.

Tools You'll Need

You'll need a few essential tools for fork maintenance. These typically include:

• A work stand to hold your bike securely.
• A clean work surface.
• A set of hex wrenches.
• A torque wrench.
• A seal pick or small screwdriver.
• A mallet.
• Fork oil specific for your DVO fork.
• Grease (DVO recommends their specific grease).
• New seals and wipers (if needed).

Quick Maintenance Tips

• Use the Right Oil: Use the correct fork oil specified by DVO. Using the wrong oil can damage the fork.
• Torque Properly: Always torque bolts to the manufacturer's specifications to prevent damage or loosening.
• Cleanliness Is Key: Keep your work area and tools clean to prevent contamination of the fork's internal components.
• Watch the Videos: DVO and other online resources offer excellent videos on fork maintenance. Watching these can help you perform the maintenance correctly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with the DVO Onyx SC 29 D2

Even with regular maintenance, you might encounter some issues with your DVO Onyx SC 29 D2 fork. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

1. Fork Feels Harsh: If the fork feels harsh over small bumps, try adjusting the OTT. If it is already fully open, check your air pressure. Also, make sure that the fork is not binding. Check the fork alignment and ensure that the fork is properly aligned with the front wheel and head tube.
2. Bottoming Out: If the fork bottoms out too easily, increase the air pressure or increase the compression damping. If that doesn't fix it, it may be time for a service. Inspect the fork for any damage. If the fork is damaged, then it may be necessary to service the fork.
3. Oil Leaks: Oil leaks can indicate a problem with the seals. If you notice oil leaking around the seals, it's time to replace them. In this case, you will have to disassemble the fork, and this can be done by a professional or yourself.
4. Loss of Travel: If you notice a loss of travel, there may be an issue with the air spring or the seals. Check the air pressure, and if the issue persists, you may need to service the fork or replace the air spring.
5. Noisy Operation: Noises such as clunking or creaking can indicate issues with the bushings or internal components. These noises indicate that the fork needs to be serviced. If the noise continues, then it may require more service.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Start Simple: Before diving into complex repairs, start by checking the basics: air pressure, adjustments, and external components.
• Consult the Manual: Refer to the DVO user manual for detailed troubleshooting instructions and specifications.
• Seek Professional Help: If you're not comfortable performing repairs, don't hesitate to take your fork to a qualified bike mechanic. They can diagnose and fix any issues accurately.

Upgrading Your Ride with the DVO Onyx SC 29 D2

The DVO Onyx SC 29 D2 is a top-tier fork designed to enhance your mountain biking experience. Its combination of adjustability, durability, and performance makes it a great choice for riders of all skill levels. With proper setup and maintenance, this fork will provide you with years of enjoyable riding.

Why Choose the DVO Onyx SC?

• Unmatched Performance: Delivers exceptional control and stability on rough terrain.
• Highly Adjustable: Allows you to fine-tune the fork to your riding style and preferences.
• Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of aggressive riding.

Whether you're hitting the trails for a casual ride or competing in an enduro race, the DVO Onyx SC 29 D2 is an excellent investment. Ride on, guys!