1. Materials. The working surface is made from carboxylated nitrilic butadiene rubber (XNBR), which is not affected by the additives in the latest generation of high-performance suspension oils. Structural rigidity of the seal is provided by high-carbon steel inserts where these are required.

2. Design. To reduce stiction, the scavenging surfaces of the seals are fine-ground. You will see this under a magnifying glass. The benefit is that this surface retains a minute quantity of lubricant, which speeds the fork's response to small irregularities in the road surface. This is noticeable on road joints and concrete highways.

3. Arisil lubricant. This is a non-hydrocarbon lubricant which can be applied to the scavenging lips inside the seal on assembly. Arisil is designed to luricate metal-to-rubber contact points. It is extremely slow-drying, and will extend the life of the seal while further improving boulevard ride. It is supplied in a sachet containing enough lubricant for a set of seals.