If you’ve spent any time nerding out over suspension options, you’ve probably heard of EXT. Extreme Racing Shocks is an Italian suspension company with a reputation for making some of the most sophisticated and expensive shocks and forks in mountain biking. Canadian riders that want EXT products will have a much easier time getting it.
EXT Racing Shox has officially named Invermere, B.C.-based ION² Progression Suspension as its exclusive Canadian distributor. This means Canadian riders now have domestic access to product sales, technical support, service and warranty coverage.
Bringing Italian suspension closer to home
Based in Vicenza, Italy EXT is known for their work in the high-end motorsport, automotive and motorcycle world. They have numerous rally car titles under their belt. And in 2014 they used that knowledge and expertise to enter the MTB market. EXT has slowly built a loyal following among gravity riders and suspension enthusiasts looking for something a little different from the mainstream brands.
Millie Johnset rode EXT suspension to third in Andorra DH last year. And Louise Ferguson became the first woman to ride a full run at Hardline Wales aboard EXT.
While Fox and RockShox largely dominate the OEM market, EXT focuses heavily on performance-oriented aftermarket suspension. Products like the Storia shock and the inverted Vaia fork have attracted a lot of attention over the past couple of years. The company describes its philosophy as “uncompromising performance at every level.” Their products are developed through racing and built by hand in Italy.
Based in the heart of mountain biking country
ION² Progression Suspension operates out of Invermere, B.C. Located within easy striking distance of trails in the Columbia Valley, Golden, Fernie and Kootenay regions, the company already specializes in suspension service and tuning.
According to the announcement, ION² will handle everything from dealer support and product distribution to long-term warranty and service work for Canadian customers.
“Our goal is to grow EXT’s presence across the country by supporting both dealers and riders at every stage,” the company said in the announcement.
A growing premium suspension market
Whether it’s a custom tune, upgraded damper or a totally new shock, some riders are increasingly willing to spend money chasing better performance. The products made by EXT aren’t cheap. But the riders whole love them…
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