



Many people will agree that front suspension is not really needed on a fattie in the winter as the white stuff generally covers the nasty humps and bumps. The available squish in the aired down tires make most riding quite enjoyable. However, when riding trails frequented by hikers, front suspension is appreciated when hitting frozen sunken footsteps.

When riding a fattie in the other three seasons the need for front suspension increases significantly. Is it absolutely necessary . . . not really. You just have to ride a little slower to minimize the front end jarring, or fly down the trail just kissing the crest of each bump. If your riding style is somewhere in between, front suspension should be in your future.





If you are the kind of rider who craves specifications and details, be sure to check out the chart below.

RockShox Bluto





When people think of fatbike front suspension the first name that comes to mind i

s the RockShox Bluto . Hitting t

he market in late 2013 the Bluto was the first mass produced front suspension for fatbikes. Available in 80 mm, 100 mm, and 120 mm variations this fork was well appreciated by those riding fatties outside of the winter months.



Word around the LBS was that the Bluto does not use the latest and greatest technology, but rather borrows something from the not to distant past. It was quickly realized by the fatbiking community that the Bluto did not like the cold . . . which is unfortunate since winter is the preferred habitat of the fatbike. The aftermarket quickly came up with a solution, which oddly enough, when installed could compromise warranty.



Nevertheless, the Bluto has smoothed out a lot of trails. Its simple to set up with air in the left fork and rebound and manual lockout on the right. It can run up to a 5" tire and the remote lockout option is quite popular. And a relatively simple spring swap can change your travel. Color options include black or white.



MSRP $685 - $715 USD



WREN Inverted



Initially known as the "fork of many names" this inverted fatbike fork came to market around the same time as the Bluto and was initially stamped with an 11Nine and Carver logos. In 2014 Wren Sports started sell ing its Inverted Fatbike Fork and a fter extensive testing became exclusive North American distributor of this non-traditional fork. Extensive tweaking & improvements include: keyed stanchions, beefed up crown, stronger bushings, new axle, stock carbon fiber stanchion guards, cable guides and a TwinAir system.