WP XACT vs WP XPLOR Suspension Comparison
Quick Reference Table
| Feature | WP XACT | WP XPLOR |
|---|---|---|
| Fork Type | Closed cartridge | Open cartridge |
| Adjustability | Comp/Reb/Preload | Comp/Reb/Preload |
| Weight | 4.2kg (pair) | 3.9kg (pair) |
| Service Interval | 40-50 hours | 30-40 hours |
| Cost | Premium | Standard |
| Best For | Hard enduro | Trail/MX |
| Stock On | KTM XC-W, Husky TE | KTM XC, Husky TX |
Technical Differences
WP XACT Fork Design
Construction:
- Closed cartridge system
- Separated oil chambers
- Consistent damping under temperature changes
- 48mm stanchion tubes
- Mid-valve technology
- Hydrostop bottom-out system
Benefits:
- Superior consistency
- Better small bump compliance
- Less fade over long rides
- Easier to tune
- More plush feel
- Better for technical terrain
Drawbacks:
- Heavier overall
- More expensive to service
- Complex internals
- Limited aftermarket pistons
WP XPLOR Fork Design
Construction:
- Open cartridge design
- Single oil chamber
- Spring in left leg
- Damping in right leg
- 48mm stanchion tubes
- Traditional damping rod
Benefits:
- Lighter weight
- Simpler design
- Easier DIY service
- Less expensive parts
- Good for faster riding
- Better feedback
Drawbacks:
- More fade when hot
- Less consistent damping
- Harsher on small bumps
- Limited tuning range
Performance Comparison
Rock Gardens
WP XACT: 9/10
- Excellent small bump absorption
- Maintains composure over repeated hits
- Consistent performance all day
- Less arm fatigue
WP XPLOR: 6/10
- Adequate but harsher
- Performance degrades with heat
- More deflection off rocks
- Requires softer settings
High-Speed Desert
WP XACT: 8/10
- Stable at speed
- Good bottoming resistance
- Predictable behavior
- Slightly heavy feel
WP XPLOR: 9/10
- Excellent high-speed performance
- Light, responsive feel
- Better for whoops
- More direct feedback
Technical Climbs
WP XACT: 10/10
- Superior traction
- Consistent damping
- Better front grip
- Less deflection
WP XPLOR: 7/10
- Good but less refined
- More setup-sensitive
- Can feel harsh
- Adequate for most riders
Drop-Offs/Jumps
WP XACT: 9/10
- Progressive bottoming resistance
- Hydrostop prevents harsh bottom
- Confidence-inspiring
- Forgiving on mistakes
WP XPLOR: 8/10
- Good for moderate hits
- More abrupt bottoming
- Requires precise setup
- Better for skilled riders
Setup Differences
Spring Rates
WP XACT Standard:
- 4.4 N/mm (both legs)
- Progressive design
- Wide range available
WP XPLOR Standard:
- 4.4 N/mm (left leg only)
- Linear rate
- Same range available
Oil Specifications
WP XACT:
- Oil type: SAE 5
- Oil volume: 580ml per leg
- Air gap: 110mm
- Cartridge oil: 200ml
WP XPLOR:
- Oil type: SAE 5
- Left leg: 610ml
- Right leg: 590ml
- Air gap: 135mm
Clicker Settings
WP XACT Starting Point:
- Compression: 15 clicks out
- Rebound: 15 clicks out
- More usable range
WP XPLOR Starting Point:
- Compression: 12 clicks out
- Rebound: 18 clicks out
- Narrower sweet spot
Maintenance Requirements
WP XACT Service
Every 40-50 hours:
- Oil change: $120-150
- Seal service: $180-220
- Full rebuild: $450-550
- More specialized tools needed
Annual Service:
- Complete cartridge service
- Bushing inspection
- Spring inspection
- Hydrostop service
WP XPLOR Service
Every 30-40 hours:
- Oil change: $80-100
- Seal service: $150-180
- Full rebuild: $350-400
- Standard tools adequate
Annual Service:
- Damping rod inspection
- Bushing replacement
- Spring check
- Simpler overall
Real-World Testing Results
Utah Terrain Suitability
Five Mile Pass Technical:
- XACT: Significantly better
- XPLOR: Harsh, deflects more
San Rafael Swell Mixed:
- XACT: Excellent all-around
- XPLOR: Good with proper setup
Desert Racing Sections:
- XACT: Very good
- XPLOR: Slight advantage
Rock Ledges/Steps:
- XACT: Superior control
- XPLOR: Adequate but harsh
Upgrade Paths
From XPLOR to XACT
Option 1: Complete Fork Swap
- Cost: $1800-2200
- Direct bolt-on
- Best performance gain
- Retains warranty
Option 2: Cartridge Kit
- Cost: $800-1000
- Converts to closed cartridge
- Good compromise
- Various brands available
XPLOR Improvements
Revalve: $295
- Significant improvement
- Utah-specific setup
- Cost-effective
AER Conversion: $600
- Air spring technology
- Lighter weight
- Infinite adjustment
XACT Improvements
Factory Revalve: $295
- Fine-tune for riding style
- Already excellent base
Cone Valve Kit: $1200
- Ultimate performance
- Overkill for most
Cost Analysis
3-Year Ownership
WP XACT:
- Initial cost: +$400
- Service (6x): $900
- Consumables: $300
- Total: $1600
WP XPLOR:
- Initial cost: Base
- Service (8x): $800
- Revalve: $295
- Consumables: $400
- Total: $1495
Which Suspension for You?
Choose WP XACT If:
- Primary riding is technical
- Comfort is priority
- Budget allows premium
- Less frequent service desired
- Hard enduro focused
Choose WP XPLOR If:
- Mixed terrain riding
- Budget conscious
- DIY maintenance
- Prefer lighter feel
- Desert/fast trails
Professional Opinion
For Utah hard enduro specifically, the WP XACT is worth the premium. The superior small bump compliance and consistency make a significant difference on our rocky terrain. The XPLOR can be made to work well with proper setup and revalving, but the XACT performs better out of the box.
Bottom Line
WP XACT: The gold standard for hard enduro. Superior technology, better suited to technical terrain, worth the investment for serious riders.
WP XPLOR: Good all-around suspension that can be improved with tuning. Better for faster, less technical riding or budget-conscious riders.
Service at Mountain Goat Sports
We service both suspension types:
- XACT specialist on staff
- XPLOR revalve expertise
- Comparison test rides available
- Upgrade consultations
- Trade-in programs
Contact us to discuss which suspension best matches your riding style and Utah terrain preferences.