The DVO Onyx D1 38 SL brings the most affordable fork in the test from the California-based manufacturer, priced at €1,149, but it’s also the heaviest. With massive 38 mm stanchions and custom tuning options, it aims to be a top choice for hardcore enduro riding. But how does it stack up against the competition?
Fender mount: Yes | PM 200 | €1,149 | 2,529 g | Manufacture’s Website
The Onyx D1 38 SL comes in a subtle “Apatite Grey” finish, standing out from DVO’s signature bright green, with only the SAG ring, high-speed compression adjuster, and a few decal details bearing the brand’s vibrant color. Based on feedback from our previous test model, which showed a high need for service after heavy use, DVO has responded with noticeable improvements in this new release. At €1,149, the DVO Onyx D1 38 SL is the most affordable fork in our comparison test, priced €500 less than the popular FOX 38 GRIP X2. However, it also weighs in at 2,529 g, making it the heaviest fork in the test field, around 138 g above the average for enduro forks.
The fork features a 200 mm post-mount brake interface, allowing for the installation of 200 mm discs, or even 220 mm discs with an adapter. A smaller brake disc isn’t really necessary on your enduro bike ;) Three mounting points make it easy to attach the included mudguard, which is only available in a short version. The thru-axle is secured with a standard 6 mm Allen key; there is no quick-release option.
Learn more about this comparison test: The best MTB fork – 8 forks in comparison
For the DVO Onyx D1 38, the manufacturer offers two air chamber options: OTT (Off The Top) and SL (Super-Light). In our test of the DVO Onyx D1 38 SL, we focused on the SL air spring version. The SL system operates like a traditional air spring, automatically balancing pressure between the positive and negative air chambers. End-stroke progression can also be fine-tuned as usual, using up to four volume spacers included with the fork.
The DVO Onyx D1 38 is also available with the OTT system. This system allows riders to adjust the fork’s sensitivity via a small adjuster on the fork’s casting, using an Allen key. While it offers a more refined tuning than the SL system, it also requires more technical understanding and patience during setup.
DVO also offers a custom tuning service for an additional €140, which adjusts the fork’s damping settings to your weight, skill level, bike, and preferred trails, using different shim stacks and oils.
The D1 damper cartridge allows precise adjustments for both rebound and compression. Rebound can be set with up to 25 clicks, while the low-speed compression adjustment has five clicks. The high-speed compression, however, is finely adjustable in half turns rather than clicks, with a maximum of 4 ¾ counterclockwise turns. All adjusters provide a satisfying tactile feedback and are clearly labeled, with “firm” and “soft” for compression and “faster” and “slower” for rebound, making it easy for less experienced riders to navigate. A detailed setup guide on the website further helps dial in the optimal settings.
The DVO Onyx D1 38 SL fork on the trail
Once on the trail, the DVO Onyx D1 38 SL shows off its buttery smooth response. The fork reacts sensitively to even the smallest bumps and seems to stick to the ground, providing maximum grip and a highly controlled feel. This is where the Onyx D1 38 SL truly stands out, offering the highest sensitivity in our test field. On root carpets and small uneven surfaces, the fork gives the rider an incredible sense of security and stability.
Like the Öhlins RXF38 m.2 or the Formula Selva S, the DVO Onyx D1 38 SL sits relatively high in its travel, providing steady mid-stroke support. It absorbs fast, successive hits effectively and remains stable even during harder impacts. However, at the end of the travel, the fork becomes highly progressive, almost to the point of feeling harsh, hitting a “wall of progression.” While this prevents bottom-out, it leaves minimal movement in the last centimeters of travel. On larger drops, this can feel like a bottom-out impact on your wrists, despite technically still having travel left. Here, the FOX 38 GRIP X2 performs better, guiding the rider more smoothly through the end of the travel.
On moderate trails, the DVO Onyx D1 38 SL is at its best, ranking among the top forks in the test. However, as trails become rougher, the fork becomes more challenging, especially deep into its travel. Adjusting the high-speed compression can ease this slightly, but the strong end-stroke progression remains present even without volume spacers, as the fork is delivered.
Conclusion on the DVO Onyx D1 38 SL fork
As the most affordable fork in the test, the DVO Onyx D1 38 SL delivers solid performance, excelling with the most sensitive response in the field and good mid-stroke support. The straightforward setup and clear labeling make adjustments easy, while the custom shop offers additional tuning options. However, the early onset of end-stroke progression, noticeable on hard impacts, affects the overall comfort and makes the DVO Onyx D1 38 SL more demanding on rougher trails.
Tops
- Most sensitive response in the test
- High level of customization with custom shop
- Strong mid-stroke support
- Clear labeling and detailed setup guide
Flops
- Early onset of end-stroke progression
For more information, visit the DVO Suspension website.
All forks on test:
DVO Onyx D1 38 SL | EXT ERA V2.1 | Formula Selva S | FOX 38 GRIP X2 | FOX 36 GRIP X | Öhlins RXF38 | RockShox ZEB Ultimate | RockShox Lyrik Ultimate |
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Words: Benedikt Schmidt Photos: Peter Walker
