DT Swiss has two new L2 & L3 trigger remote levers that improve the ergonomics of their remote suspension lockout controls, and also add in the option for an integrated dropper remote at the same time. The result is one of the tidiest XC MTB cockpit setups that retains full mechanical suspension & dropper control. The trick is it really only works with DT’s 3-position ODL mountain bike suspension.
DT Swiss L2 & L3 combined ODL suspension & dropper post remote controls
DT Swiss’ Open-Drive-Lock cross-country mountain bike forks & shocks allow racers to easily switch from fully open (O) suspension to a mid-level of compression damping suitable for out of the saddle efforts (D) without losing the extra grip & smoothness of reduced suspension actuation to full lockout (L) for the steepest, smoothest climbs or asphalt finish line sprints. It effectively lets riders keep suspension more active (and often times at lower pressures) longer, without sacrificing pedaling efficiency.
I’ll admit that I’ve already been a fan of DT’s classic Two-in-One remote for years, which combined both front & rear suspension controls into a single 3-position lever with ODL modes. So an updated L2 version with modular mounting, and an L3 version that combines a dropper remote too sounds great. In fact, it looks a lot like the same great TripleLoc lever that does much the same thing on Scott’s new Spark XC bike.
Just a couple of days ago on a review of Wilier’s Urta SLR (with Fox suspension), I was going on about how great combined front & rear XC lockouts can be when done right. But all the mechanical cables can make for a crowded cockpit, and there are not many neatly combined setups.
What’s new?
The new DT Swiss L2 lever is functionally the same as the old Two-in-One remote: 2-stage main thumb button to lock (or Drive) and smaller paddle to release. Just now it gets a modular mount design that sits under the bar, in the place of the long-lost front derailleur trigger. Or it is also Matchmaker X compatible to mount it directly to your brake lever. The suspension control is limited only to DT Swiss 232 & 535 ODL-equipped suspension.
The L3 remote is exactly the same, plus it adds another mount tab below to attach a BikeYoke Triggy dropper remote underneath. DT doesn’t explicitly say, but it is in fact a premium Triggy Alpha. And rumor has it that BikeYoke also helped the overall L2/L3 development, too.
The extra good news there… is that DT Swiss only mentions it being compatible with their own D232 short travel dropper posts, but the BikeYoke connection suggests compatibility with virtually any dropper.
The whole setup is modular, so it’s possible to independently adjust each lever position. I was a bit worried about accidental dropper actuation when using the Scott setup at first, but I quickly adapted to having all the remote controls close at hand under my left thumb. I expect the exact same experience here, only with more adjustability.
DT Swiss L2 & L3 remotes – Pricing, options & availability
The 35g L2 remote sells for $66/ 60€ and includes the handlebar clamp (whether you need it or not) and the new wires & ferrules needed to install it, plus inline barrel adjusters.
The 84g L3 remote sells for $110 / 100€ and includes the handlebar clamp and the new wires & ferrules needed to install it, plus inline barrel adjusters.
Both are available starting today from DT Swiss retailers.
