MXA TEAM TESTED: WP XACT PRO CONE VALVE FORKS & SUPER TRAX SHOCK

WHAT IS IT? WP XACT Pro components are the next generation of WP’s previous Cone Valve forks and Trax shock. The forks are a closed-cartridge spring fork utilizing WP’s proven Cone Valve technology with compression, rebound and preload adjustability. Additionally, the new Super Trax shock has a redesigned body with high- and low-speed compression, as well as high- and low-speed rebound adjustability. This shock comes with a bladder system, replacing the old IFP system, to deliver better square-edge bump absorption as well as improved rear-wheel traction.

WHAT’S IT COST? $3499.00 (XACT Pro Forks),  $2249.00 (XACT Pro Super Trax shock).

CONTACT? www.wp-suspension.com.

WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the WP suspension on our 2019 Husqvarna FC450.

(1) Fitment. The WP Cone Valve forks are designed to fit right into the stock triple clamps. To mount the Super Trax shock, remove all four subframe bolts and push the subframe to the side just enough to allow the shock body to clear the frame and subframe.

(2) WP design. With Cone Valve technology and compression, rebound and preload adjusters, these forks give you the ability to fine-tune them to your liking. The new Super Trax shock also gives you an enormous amount of fine-tuning ability with its high-speed compression, low-speed compression, high-speed rebound and low-speed rebound adjusters.

(3) Fork performance. We elected to test the XACT Pro spring fork because, in our opinion, it allowed the front end to follow the ground better than the XACT Pro Air. We like the consistent and supple feel. It should be noted that replacing the stock WP AER air forks with the XACT Pro spring forks adds 3 pounds to the front end—and this added weight is noticeable. We compensated with a little more throttle input in soft corners (where we could pull the clutch in and coast with the AER forks); however, not a single MXA test rider felt that the 3-pound weight gain was a deal-breaker. Instead, they like the consistent feedback of the spring forks, especially in chattery corners and wheel-swallowing rollers. 

(4) Shock performance. The WP Super Trax shock was an improvement over the standard production shock. The Super Trax shock utilizes a bladder system rather than the IFP system that comes standard on the production WP KTM and Husqvarna shock, as well as the older Trax shock. The bladder system gives the shock improved square-edge bump absorption. The new WP shock has increased oil volume for more consistent damping over a long moto. Straight-line stability was rock solid, and test riders were able to charge into big braking bumps harder without the loose and kicky feel of the stock shock. The overall balance of the bike was noticeably different. The WP XACT Cone Valve forks and Super Trax shock work hand in hand with each other rather than one overpowering the other.

WHAT’S THE SQUAWK? Price. At just under $6000, the WP Pro components are not cheap. However, this WP works fork and shock have a much lower price than Showa A-Kit components.

MXA RATING: If you are looking for the ultimate ride, this suspension upgrade will get you there—assuming your suspension tuner can valve it properly.