Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox Review
- Price: $5,499
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: 27.5 inches
- Gear: 1×12
What we like about it: The geometric shape, suspension, and wheel size blend perfectly together. It exhibits strong riding capabilities on steep terrains.
What we don’t like about it: The aluminum alloy frame is not as lightweight.
Rating: (4.9/5)
The Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox is one of the longest-standing bicycles in the Transition lineup, featuring updated geometry and modified suspension adjustments. It delivers powerful riding pleasure, whether at the bike park or on local trails.
We will analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox.
In the latter part of this article, we also compare it with several other top bike models. If you’re interested in more bike reviews, stay tuned.
Riding Experience
The Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox improves the weight distribution from front to back, maintaining balance on long and slack bikes. It provides stability during high-speed rides and agility in tight trail corners, resulting in maximum riding enjoyment.
To test it out, I took the Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox to the Deer Valley Resort mountain bike park. I booked a hotel nearby using IHG in advance. Deer Valley offers routes suitable for DH, AM, Trail, and XC, with interconnected paths and rolling terrain.
Climbing
As a long-travel full-suspension enduro bike, the Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox may not excel in climbing like a hardtail bike. However, the GiddyUp suspension system minimizes pedal bob, enhancing pedaling efficiency.
On steep climbing routes, I found the SRAM GX Alloy DUB crankset (32t/165mm) and SRAM XG 1275 (10-52t) freewheel, with its abundant 1×12 speed options, made uphill riding more effortless.
What I appreciate is that the bike is equipped with Schwalbe Magic Mary, Super Trail, Soft (2.4), and Schwalbe Big Betty, Super Trail, Soft (2.4) wide-grain tires, which provide excellent grip on the ground. They effectively convert my pedaling power into forward momentum.
Descending
The Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox features the Fox Float 38 Performance Elite fork and Fox Float X Performance Elite (205×60) rear shock, providing 160mm of suspension travel. It offers better support and absorbs more vibrations when landing from significant drops.
On long and rocky downhill sections, the SRAM GX Eagle rear derailleur maintains excellent chain tension, coupled with the stability of a chain guide. This ensures that the chain remains secure without any worries of it coming off during aggressive and fast descents.
When I needed to decelerate in sharp turns, the TRP DH-R Evo brakes with TRP R1 2.3 (203mm) brake rotors showcased their powerful braking capabilities. They were able to instantly reduce my speed, allowing for more stable and safe cornering, and providing me with a reassuring riding experience.
The Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox also excels on trails. Its excellent geometry offers nimble handling, complemented by the 27.5-inch wheels and high-traction tires, enabling me to maneuver swiftly and effortlessly through trails.
In conclusion, the Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox is a high-performance full-suspension enduro bike, and I approve of its descending capabilities.
Specification
The Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox is available in 4 sizes (S-XL) with internal cable routing on the aluminum alloy frame. It has a clean and neat appearance, making it easier to clean daily.
The design of the silent chainstay protector reduces the noise caused by the chain slapping against the inner walls during aggressive riding.
The SBG technology creates a confident steering feel that adapts to the speed of the wheels. It provides stability during high-speed riding and agility during slow-speed maneuvers, offering traction and control for riders of any skill level.
The chainstay and downtube chain protection stickers reduce frame damage from flying rocks during intense downhill riding and minimize chain slapping noise while riding.
The mounting holes on the downtube support full-size water bottle installation, and the mounting holes on the top tube accommodate carrying portable tools for long-distance rides.
Video
Other Versions
The Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox is a high-performance full-suspension enduro bike with excellent geometry and carefully selected components. However, for riders with a more generous budget, there are even more powerful bikes to choose from.
For this reason, we offer a full-suspension enduro bike with the same geometry but featuring a carbon frame material and higher-end components, maximizing its riding potential.
Transition Patrol XO Carbon
Compared to the Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox, the Transition Patrol XO Carbon features a carbon fiber frame, resulting in a lighter weight and a more agile riding experience.
For suspension options, the Patrol XO Carbon uses the Fox Float 38 Grip 2 Factory fork and Fox Float X2 Factory 2 Position rear shock. It provides better support and a smoother suspension feel.
In terms of drivetrain components, the SRAM XO AXS electronic shifting system offers easier tuning and improved drivetrain efficiency and durability.
The braking system includes the SRAM Code Ultimate Stealth brakes paired with SRAM HS2 (200mm) rotors, providing top-level braking power to bring the fast-moving bike to an instant stop.
Overall, the Transition Patrol XO Carbon with its lighter carbon fiber frame and high-performance components fully unleashes its potential, making it more suitable for experienced riders with a larger budget.
Next, we will provide detailed specifications of the Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox and other similar full-suspension enduro bikes from different brands at similar price points for your reference.
What do we like about it?
- Maximum tire clearance of up to 2.6 inches, ensuring the wheels can work in muddy conditions.
- Clean and neat appearance with internal cable routing, making it easier to clean.
- Dropper post that maintains the center of gravity during climbs and descents.
- Latest development in GiddyUp suspension kinematics, providing excellent support and sensitivity to small bumps.
- Mounting holes on the downtube for full-size water bottle installation and mounting holes on the top tube for carrying riding tools.
- Silent chainstay design that reduces noise during aggressive riding.
What don’t we like about it?
- Aluminum alloy frame, not as lightweight as desired.
FAQ
- Can different travel forks be installed on this bike?
Yes. A +/- 10mm variation from the original travel is possible. Any travel exceeding 10mm in either direction will have a negative impact on handling.
- Can this bike run both air and coil shocks on the frame?
Yes. This bike is designed for both air and coil shocks.
- How to choose the right size?
Here we have a size chart for you. Of course, it doesn’t have to be according to this standard, and the best way to find the most suitable size is to try it out.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’0″ – 5’7″ | S |
| 5’4″ – 6’0″ | M |
| 5’8″ – 6’3″ | L |
| 6’0″ – 6’7″ | XL |
Specs
Build
| Frame | Patrol Alloy 160mm Colors: Bonfire Red (Carbon & Alloy); Moonshadow (Carbon & Alloy); Raw (Alloy); Blueberry (Alloy) |
| Fork | Fox Float 38 Performance Elite (160mm) |
| Rear Shock | Fox Float X Performance Elite, (205×60) |
| Headset | FSA NO.55R/57 |
| Stem | ANVL Swage (40mm) |
| Handlebar | ANVL Mandrel Alloy 35, SM(800×20) MD/LG/XL(800×30) |
| Saddle | SDG Bel Air 3 |
| Seatpost | OneUp Dropper Post |
| Grips | ODI Elite Flow |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM GX Eagle |
| Crank | SRAM GX Alloy DUB, (32t/165mm) |
| Shifters | SRAM GX Eagle |
| Cassette | SRAM XG 1275 (10-52t) |
| Chain | SRAM GX Eagle |
| Chain Guide | OneUp Bash Guide |
| Brakes | TRP DH-R Evo |
Wheels
| Rims | RaceFace Aeffect R |
| Spokes | RaceFace 2.0/1.7/2.0 |
| Front Hub | RaceFace Trace 28H |
| Rear Hub | RaceFace Trace 28H |
| Tires | Front: Schwalbe Magic Mary, Super Trail, Soft (2.4), Rear: Schwalbe Big Betty, Super Trail, Soft (2.4) |
| Disk Rotors | TRP R1 2.3 (203mm) |
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click view | Travel | Frame material | Brake Type | Drivetrain |
| Specialized Stumpjumper EVO Expert RS | Click View | 150mm rear, 160mm front | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 1 × 12 |
| Canyon Spectral 27.5 CF 8 | Click View | 150mm rear, 160mm front | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 1 × 12 |
| Scott Contessa Genius 920 | Click View | 150mm rear, 160mm front | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 1 × 12 |
| Santa Cruz BRONSON R / Carbon C | Click View | 150mm rear, 160mm front | Carbon | Hydraulic Disc | 1 × 12 |
Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox vs Specialized Stumpjumper EVO Expert RS
They are both iconic full-suspension enduro bikes from their respective brands.
In terms of suspension, the former uses the Fox Float 38 Performance Elite, which provides better support than the RockShox Lyrik Select Plus on the latter, making it suitable for more aggressive downhill riding.
For drivetrain components, both bikes use SRAM components. However, the Stumpjumper EVO Expert RS features the SRAM X01 Eagle rear derailleur, known for its superior tension.
In the braking department, the former has the TRP DH-R Evo brakes, while the latter is equipped with the SRAM Code RS brakes. Both offer powerful braking performance and reliable stopping power.
Ultimately, both of these full-suspension mountain bikes are excellent choices, and you can consider factors such as brand preference and aesthetic design to determine which one you prefer.
Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox vs Canyon Spectral 27.5 CF 8
In terms of suspension, the former utilizes the Fox Float 38 Performance Elite front fork, while the latter is equipped with the Fox Performance Elite Float 36. The former has a larger diameter and a bigger air chamber, allowing it to handle stronger impacts.
As for the drivetrain systems, the former features the SRAM GX Eagle, while the latter uses the Shimano Deore XT M8100. The SRAM series provides a crisper and more precise shifting feel, while Shimano offers a smoother experience.
In the braking department, the Patrol GX Alloy Fox comes with the more direct and aggressive TRP DH-R Evo brakes, while the Spectral 27.5 CF 8’s Shimano Deore XT M8120 brakes provide a more balanced performance.
Therefore, when choosing between these two bikes, you can consider your preference for the operating feel of the drivetrain components.
Learn More: Is Canyon Spectral 29 CF 7 Worth Buying? [Canyon Spectral 29 CF 7 Review]
Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox vs Scott Contessa Genius 920
In comparison, the latter bike has a cleaner appearance with its integrated rear shock, but it can be more troublesome for maintenance and upkeep.
Regarding the front suspension fork, the former features the Fox Float 38 Performance Elite, which has a thicker diameter compared to the Fox Performance Elite Float 36 on the latter bike. As a result, it provides better support even with the same amount of travel.
When it comes to the drivetrain components, both bikes utilize high-quality components from SRAM and Shimano respectively. The former’s SRAM offers a crisper and more precise shifting feel, while the latter’s Shimano drivetrain provides a smoother and more refined experience.
However, in terms of braking components, I would prefer the TRP DH-R Evo brakes on the Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox. They offer superior braking power compared to the Shimano Deore M6120 brakes equipped on the Scott Contessa Genius 920.
Ultimately, between these two mountain bikes, if you prefer a clean and minimalist appearance, the Scott Contessa Genius 920 would be a suitable choice.
On the other hand, if you desire an exhilarating downhill experience, the Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox is the better option.
Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox vs Santa Cruz BRONSON R / Carbon C
These two bikes have similar suspension travel, but the latter has a carbon fiber frame that offers more potential for upgrades.
In terms of drivetrain components, the SRAM GX Eagle on the former bike provides better rear derailleur tension and a smoother shifting feel compared to the SRAM NX Eagle on the latter.
When it comes to braking components, the TRP DH-R Evo equipped on the Patrol GX Alloy Fox offers superior braking power compared to the brakes on the latter.
In terms of suspension, the Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox’s Fox Float 38 Performance Elite provides better support and is more helpful in handling large drops compared to the RockShox Lyrik Select on the BRONSON R/Carbon C.
Overall, these two full-suspension endurance mountain bikes offer impressive performance. If you’re looking for a high-quality frame, we would recommend the Santa Cruz BRONSON R/Carbon C.
However, if you’re seeking an immediate top-tier riding experience, the Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox is a more worthy recommendation.
Learn More: Is Santa Cruz BRONSON XX1 A Good Bike? [2022 Santa Cruz BRONSON XX1 Review]
Summary
Above is my ride review of the Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox. In our opinion, it is a high-quality full-suspension endurance mountain bike with excellent overall performance. That’s why we gave it a rating of 4.9.
Of course, if you want to learn about other full-suspension endurance mountain bikes, we also review a wide range of bikes at various price points, making it an exciting selection. Feel free to check out our other reviews as well.
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