super deluxe ultimate travel

RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate 2023 rear shock review – a major step up in feel, control and easy tuning

Rockshox have completely overhauled their shock line up and the new super deluxe ultimate is a delicious lesson in control and inclusive tuning potential.

BikePerfect Verdict

Coil-like plush with air adjustability, awesome all-round control and next level tuneability at a great price. The new approach to low speed compression might not suit everyone though

Boutique feel at a decent price

Coil feel, air weight

Impeccable stroke control

Easy adjustment

Optional hydraulic bottom out

Some shock pumps can be a tight fit

LSC doesn’t work like normal

Stiff lock lever

HSC adjustment needs tools

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As part of its new 2023 suspension line up , RockShox has completely overhauled its rear shock models both inside and out, as well as adding new models. The new range is now made up of Deluxe, Deluxe Coil, Super Deluxe and Super Deluxe Coil shocks.

I've been testing the Super Deluxe Ultimate shock and while the resulting control is undeniably awesome – however you like to ride – there are some aspects of adjustment that might not suit everyone. So what exactly have RockShox done to create one of the best mountain bike rear shocks available, how does that feel on the trail and are there any downsides?

For information on Bike Perfect's testing procedures and how our scoring system works, see our how we test page.

Design and specifications

At first glance the 2022 version of the Super Deluxe Ultimate follows the same piggyback damper layout as the previous incarnation, but the details are different up close. The air can is faceted externally top and bottom now and all the elements of the body have a much sharper finish than before. The low speed rebound uses the same 15-click concentric 'top of can' ring design for easy adjustment. The low speed compression (LSC) dial is now a big knurled dial on the end of a barrel that sits across the head of the piggyback chamber. This matches the Ultimate fork adjusters with laser etched '+' and '-' gradients and a proper clicker for the five-point adjustment. There’s a separate fat, stubby lever on the far end of the LSC barrel to give a climbing lockout too. Four-position high speed compression damping adjustment is then done with a 3mm Allen bolt. 

There are big changes internally too as RockShox introduce the RC2T damper. Like the updated forks, the main aim of the changes are to separate ‘cross talk’ between low and high speed compression adjustment for a fully independent feel. The DebonAir+ spring can now take volume spacers in both the negative and positive sides to tune feel. The bottom out bumper is ‘castled’ for smoother compression and there’s an optional hydraulic bottom out tapered needle in the shaft damper that ramps up resistance progressively in the last 20 percent of the stroke. Bushing overlap is increased for a structurally stiffer and stronger shock, but more sensitive movement and RockShox have upgraded to the latest Maxima Plush Dynamic fluid.

Super Deluxe Ultimate comes in both conventional and trunnion mounts and there are Select+ and Select models with the same base structure, air-spring and fluid changes, but without LSC and HSC adjust and LSC, HSC and Climb lever respectively.

Performance

With all the adjusters clustered around the top of the shock, the new Super Deluxe gives easy access to all the dials and the crisp clicks give a reassuring, quality feel to each adjustment. The machined ribs on the air sleeve make it really easy to unscrew the can for adding volume spacers too. The only potential issue is that the bigger, re-positioned LSC dial can be a tight fit with fatter pump heads, though I managed to get every type I tried threaded on. The climb/lock switch is also very stiff, so it’s not the easiest thing to move on the fly unless your thumbs are strong enough to pry on DH tires without levers.

The new separated low and high speed compression strategy from RockShox also requires a complete rethink to what's gone before – add some LSC to reduce sensitivity and pedal bob. That’s because (like the forks) the LSC makes no discernible difference to sensitivity from a pedaling/small bump POV and you’ll be clicking that blue dial back and forth wondering if it’s broken at first. Start riding though and the difference that dial makes in terms of cornering support and ride height are very clear. Those five clicks can turn a bike from feeling clean, bright and lifted to properly sucked down and grippy. While the preferred feel Venn diagrams for most riders will generally match across how much high and low speed compression they like, I deliberately ran opposing setups just to verifying the separation claims. Not only was there no obvious cross talk between the adjustments, but the overall range of feel adjustment (especially when you add in the positive and negative adjustment and the refined 15-click rebound span) is extremely broad without feeling there are extreme settings for the sake of it. 

Once I’d done my dial due diligence and just got on with riding the snot out of it, the background changes to the shock really delivered too. It’s hard to tell where the balance is between the more sophisticated, back pressure quietened damping circuits, smoother bushings and fluid, and better overlap in terms of influencing the feel, but the overall result is delicious. Whether you set it up coil-plush or racer efficient, it’s exceptionally responsive, quiet, calm and consistently impressive from patter bumps to horrible last run of the day hang ups. I toggled it between a couple of kinematically different host bikes – Pace RC295 and Canyon Spectral 125 and the results were equally impressive on each one (once I’d tuned the shcok to suit each bike). The hydraulic bottom out worked really well on the more linear Pace bike too, always cushioning the deepest slams without hammering my feet, although I’ll potentially be fitting some of the new purple spacers to get a bit more progression going forward.

Typically for RockShox it doesn’t overly punish a simple setup either so you don’t have to be an expert fettler to get the best from it. With so much commonality between Ultimate, Select+ and Select shocks, less nerdy riders could probably save some cash by choosing one of the simpler dampers.

RockShox’s move away from the traditional feel change of LSC adjustment from essentially a preload/threshold feel to deeper stroke support won’t be to everyone’s taste. Especially as the lock out lever is hard to operate and hard in terms of it’s effect too. Get your head round that though and the new Super Deluxe Ultimate is an absolutely superb feeling damper that can be setup easily to suit a very wide range of riders, bikes and styles – without punishing those who don’t want to invest excessive dial time. Despite the next level feel it’s still significantly cheaper and lighter than Fox’s Float X and Float X2 shocks too, making it a boutique vibe damper at a relative bargain price and trail-friendly weight.

Tech Specs: RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate 2022

• Price:  $599 / £578 / €648
• Weight:  491g (210 x 55mm standard eyelet)

Guy has been working on Bike Perfect since we launched in 2019. Hatched in Yorkshire he's been hardened by riding round it in all weathers since he was a kid. He spent a few years working in bike shops and warehouses before starting writing and testing for bike mags in 1996. Since then he’s written several million words about several thousand test bikes and a ridiculous amount of riding gear. To make sure he rarely sleeps and to fund his custom tandem habit, he’s also penned a handful of bike-related books and talks to a GoPro for YouTube, too.

Current rides: Cervelo ZFS-5, Forbidden Druid V2, Specialized Chisel, custom Nicolai enduro tandem, Landescape/Swallow custom gravel tandem

Height: 180cm

Weight: 69kg

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• Superb small bump sensitivity
• Plenty of adjustment that makes a real difference
• Cheaper than other shocks of a similar level
• High speed compression can be tough to reach on certain frames
• Schrader valve may be inaccessible to shock pumps with larger attachements

For 2023, RockShox gave its Super Deluxe shock a big shake-up adding new dials and internals, which has culminated in an excellent rear damper with a very useful range of adjustment. As a result, it combines coil-like small-bump sensitivity with the progression expected of its air-sprung design. While faults are few, its high-speed compression adjustment requires a tool and, in certain frames, it can be hard to reach but remains one of the best rear shocks for mountain biking money can buy.

• 9 tips to keep your suspension running sweeter for longer
• Ohlins TTX22m.2 rear shock review
• How to set up your mountain bike suspension

RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate rear shock - Technical details

For this iteration of the Super Deluxe Ultimate, RockShox has changed almost everything including bestowing it with a brand-new damper. Much like what we saw on the ZEB Ultimate’s Charger 3 damper, the RC2T damper offers rebound and compression adjustment with no cross-talk. This means that any tweaks to the rebound, for example, shouldn’t affect your compression settings and vice versa.

And those dials are well within reach as its low-speed compression dial has moved onto the side of the piggyback reservoir which is joined by a slightly redesigned lockout on the opposite side. The high-speed compression dial is found on top or at the front (depending on how you orientate it) and is tweaked using a 3mm Allen. As for the single rebound adjuster, that’s the usual dial at the top of the can that we’ve come to expect from RockShox shocks. The Schrader valve for inflation is located just under the low-speed compression adjuster.

The Super Deluxe Ultimate benefits from the DebonAir+ air spring which allows the user to tune the negative and positive air volume. This latest version of the air spring has been tweaked to offer improved small-bump sensitivity but also more support throughout the travel and to keep the ride height higher. There’s also RockShox’s Counter Measure tech that is said to minimise the force required to get the shock moving which is another bid to increase small bump sensitivity.

To offer smoother performance when the shock bottoms out, there’s a castled bottom-out bumper and also like the brand’s latest forks, the shock is complete with an increased bushing overlap which we’re told boosts small bump sensitivity.

An optional extra that was introduced with the latest lineup of RockShox dampers is a Hydraulic Bottom Out. This is similar to a second compression circuit that activates when the shock is deep into its travel. It uses a needle that enters the damper piston in the last 20% of the travel which blocks a port to create more pressure and more damping. These shocks still get a bottom-out bumper inside, but instead of smashing straight into it, they reach it much more gradually. The Super Deluxe Ultimate’s Hydraulic Bottom out isn’t adjustable and isn’t included on the test sample we’ve got here.

RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate rear shock - Setup

Installing and setting up the Super Deluxe is a simple task mostly thanks to RockShox’s work in redesigning and relocating the dials and settings. The low- and high-speed compression dials get markers that align with markings on the shock body which gives a visual reference of where that dial is in its range. This is incredibly useful as you’ll always know what your settings are by simply glancing at the dials. 

It’s not the same for the rebound, however, but there are 15 clicks of adjustment on offer, which means multiple rotations of that dial, so it’s not as easily achieved here. Most of the adjustments are within easy reach, so tweaks can be made out on the trail without too much issue, however, the high-speed compression requires an Allen key. For many, this won’t be an issue but if you ride a bike with the shock mounted horizontally in the frame, standard multi-tools may not fit with clearance between the frame and shock, which is the case with my Canyon Spectral . To dial this setting in, I had to carry a standalone 3mm Allen.

Each of the dials is super tactile and features a knurled edge, apart from the high-speed compression adjustment and they all get a definite and confident click. The lockout dial is pretty stiff, however, but it’s rare I ever reach for it and this stiffness means that it won’t shake itself into an undesired setting.

As usual, there are sag markings on the shock’s shaft which makes reaching accurate sag as simple as it can be. The Super Deluxe’s Schrader valve is fairly tucked away, however, which is great for clearance and durability reasons but, if you use a shock pump with a chunkier and/or angled valve head, there may be clearance issues. Using my Topeak Pocketshock Digital posed no such issue.

RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate rear shock - Performance

I installed the Super Deluxe Ultimate onto my 2021 Canyon Spectral after a rather lovely period testing the Ohlins TTX22m.2 coil shock . As small-bump sensitivity was something that RockShox was looking to improve, it worked surprisingly well as a comparison. After my period with the Super Deluxe, I can confirm that its performance over small bumps is rather good.

How it delivers its travel is silky smooth. The small-bump sensitivity comes as a result of all of the sweet new features with damping quality that allows the rear wheel to effectively track the ground and improve control. 

The start of the stroke feels like a coil shock, blending that with the progression of an air spring. When pushing through berms, it helped to keep the bike held up in its travel and a click or two of low-speed compression only aids the cause. Here, where the shock and a bit of low-speed act to limit the compression, there’s an extra hint of efficiency and free speed that comes as a result.

Even though this model doesn’t come with the Hydraulic Bottom Out (it's an optional extra), it does a great job of masking the distinct clang of a bottom out. Throughout the stroke, the Super Deluxe is smooth, refined, and comfortable.

Each click of adjustment provides a very real and tangible difference and the range of adjustment is plentiful but this shock is tuned for my bike and is something every rider should consider before taking the plunge.

All of RockShox’s changes have worked to great effect. The coil-like suppleness at the start of the stroke as well as the mid-stroke support and smooth bottom-out resistance makes it a great option. As a package, the shock boosts control thanks to the refined delivery of its damping.

RockShox Super Deluxe rear shock - Verdict

A real benefit of the Super Deluxe is its price point. Its direct competition is Fox’s Float X Factory which will set you back £679. It may come with Fox’s Kashima coating but it’s missing a high-speed compression adjustment. Its Performance Elite model is even pricier at £600. It gets all the bells and whistles of the Factory shock but without the Kashima paint.

Cane Creek’s DBair IL G2 sits at £650 and it offers more adjustment with a similar cross-talk-free design. For the extra cash, you a high-speed rebound adjustment as well as tech that’s designed to offer similar performance benefits to the Super Deluxe.

The RockShock Super Deluxe Ultimate rear shock provides adjustability and performance at a competitive price. It offers superb small-bump sensitivity and stroke support. It’s a shock that increases control and comfort on the bike while offering easy-to-reach adjustments that make a tangible difference to its performance. However, its high-speed compression adjustment requires a tool and it can be tough to reach and adjust depending on your frame.  

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Liam Mercer

Tech Editor here at off.road.cc Liam can also be found photographing bikes as well as revelling in cycling's intricacies. Whether it's gravel, mountain, or e-MTB as long as it's a bike on dirt, he's happy.

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• 2023 RockShox Zeb Ultimate & Super Deluxe Ultimate Review

by Ross Demain May 26, 2022 7

Today sees RockShox launch the next generation of their suspension range, and it’s more than just new colours and a few cursory tweaks. The new range is all about performance and one headline item is a ‘from-the-ground-up’ brand new damper – the Charger 3.

You can read more about the new range, the tech, and development in our news story . We’ve had a new Zeb Ultimate and Super Deluxe Ultimate bolted on to a RAAW Madonna for the past couple of weeks so read on to see what we think.

The Fork: Zeb Ultimate

This product was selected for our Editors’ Choice Awards 2022 , as published in Singletrack Magazine Issue 146

Ross: “Your choice of fork, especially on hard-hitting bikes, can make or break a ride (and your confidence, teeth, etc.). On a longer travel bike, chances are you’re going to be carrying more speed in rougher terrain and the first thing to smash into the rocks and roots is the front end of the bike so you want to be able to rely on your fork to take it all in its stride. That’s the new RockShox ZEB Ultimate. There are plenty of other really good, long-travel fork options on the market, but for me the ZEB is top of the tree. It’s simple to set up and offers amazing performance on both low level repeated trail chatter and big hits alike. The new damper has a more usable range for mere mortals than the previous version. Also, each click of a dial has a definite and notable effect on performance that allows you to change the ride characteristics as and when required.”

Original Review:

From the outside, the new Zeb Ultimate looks very much the same as its predecessor. With the Zeb being a relatively new addition to the RockShox range, the new model shares the same general architecture and angular looks as the original, which has also now been adopted across the fork range. 

Available in 27.5” and 29” wheel sizes, and travel ranging from 160mm up to 190mm, new the Zeb comes in either grey or shiny black and we’ve had a 170mm 29er on test. While at first glance it might look the same on the outside, look a bit closer and you’ll start  to see the differences. 

On the  back of each leg you’ll now find pressure relief valves to help remove any unwanted air build-up in the lowers. On top of the right hand leg you’ll still find both high and low speed compression adjusters, but more importantly, they sit on top of the brand new Charger 3 damper. The damper is a completely new design from the previous and features a brand new IFP that forgoes the use of a rubber bladder and is designed to reduce rider fatigue and increase control, along with being silent in use. 

RockShox was aware that a majority of riders ran the compression adjusters pretty much wide open on the previous damper, so one of the main aims of the new one was to make all the settings usable, and have a consistent and noticeable effect on the performance. Another of the key points when developing the new damper was to ensure that both LSC and HSC could be adjusted independently of each, ensuring that making adjustments to one, wouldn’t have an impact on the other. 

With the new damper, RockShox suggest starting with both LSC and HSC in the middle of their range and then fine tuning from there, with each click having a definite impact on the performance of the fork. There are 5 positions for high speed damping, and 15 clicks of low speed on offer. 

The new Charger 3 damper is utilised across the range of forks – Zeb, Lyrik and Pike – but sized to suit the stanchions. Each fork also has a redesigned DebonAir+ air spring  with tuned positive and negative air volumes that is designed to be specific for it’s application yet to also give a consistent feel across the range. At the bottom of both the damper and air spring (the parts that are fixed to the lowers), on Ultimate level forks, is what RockShox call Buttercups. These are essentially small elastomer dampers that are designed maximise high frequency absorption and dampen trail vibration. 

The bushings have also had an overhaul to maximise overlap and reduce friction. The lower bushing on Ultimate level is a claimed 53% longer than the previous model to further reduce friction and keep things running smoothly, This is further enhanced with a change from own brand fluid to Maxima Dynamic Plush Suspension Lube across the range.

The Shock: Super Deluxe Ultimate

The upgrades aren’t only reserved for the fork range though, with the shocks benefiting from a pretty big redesign too. Top of the list is the new RC2T damper that is seen on the Ultimate level Super Deluxe Shock – both air and coil. 

The new damper offer plenty of options of getting things dialled with rebound, LSC and HSC adjustment, along with a pedal platform (R = rebound, C = compression x 2, T = threshold). Like the HSC on the forks, both the LSC and HSC on the RC2T damper offer 5 clicks of adjustment, in effect, giving you two more or two less than their base setting.

As with the Charger 3 damper, the adjustments on the RC2T are designed to have a tangible effect on how the shock performs and the bike rides, letting you get things dialled in and making it easy and simple to make adjustments. 

The new Super Deluxe Ultimate is available with two different air cans – one linear, and one progressive – to suit different bikes with different leverage curves, and to help get the most from your particular ride. 

To further enhance this, the new Debonair+ rear shocks now utilise not only Bottomless Tokens to tune the ride, but also Negative Tokens to help fine tune the initial part of the travel and end stroke ramp. The shock we’ve had on test is a linear air can and has zero Negative Tokens and two Bottomless Tokens

The fork and shock have been bolted on to a RAAW Madonna V2.2 for the duration of the yestGetting the fork setup is pretty straight forward. And as with all their forks, RockShox have a suggested air pressure guide stuck on the fork which gives a good idea and then just fine tune from there. I weigh around 86 – 87kg in riding kit and started with around 73psi, which I then dropped a couple of psi from. This gave me around 20% sag. As suggested by RockShox I also started with all dials in the middle and adjusted rebound to suit.

With the shock I settled at 170 psi which gave me the 30% sag I was looking for. I again started with the LSC and HSC in the middle of their settings and then set the rebound to suit. 

After a few initial runs to start dialling things in, I settled on five clicks from fully open of LSC and one from fully open on HSC for the fork, and fully open on both HSC and LSC on the shock. 

The Ride – Zeb Ultimate

From the first  bounce on the new Zeb Ultimate you can feel how sensitive and plush the  fork is off the top. I was a fan of the original Zeb, which used Charger 2.1, but the new damper certainly feels like a step above. 

Any fork of this nature is going to have to be pedalled to, and around the trails, and the Zeb  Ultimate does it without any fuss. If you mash the pedals, or are out of the saddle cranking, you can get it moving, but it does a great job of tracking the  ground and just gets on with it.

Get things moving though and the Zeb Ultimate is genuinely impressive. Whether you’re dropping into a steep hand cut rut, or smashing through a chunky rock garden, the Zeb stays composed and confident.

It does a properly good job of ironing out the trail, letting you get off the brakes and ride what’s in front of you. It floats across carpets of roots, soaking them up and smoothing things out impressively, adding grip and letting you look ahead. Small trail chatter disappears under the front wheel, with no undue feedback through the bars, and that suppleness adds grip across cambers and roots. The new damper and Buttercups certainly seem to what they claim, removing high frequency trail chatter and vibration.

As things get rougher the Zeb just keeps on ploughing. Big hits, fast hits, they’re all taken in its stride, without getting flustered or knocked off line. The damper does a great job of soaking things up without ever feeling harsh. It rides nice and high in its travel, keeping you in an aggressive position and offering loads of support for properly rough tracks, and for hitting steep turns.

And it’s not afraid to use it’s travel, but it does in a controlled way, never blowing through it but using it when it’s needed. Whether it’s a catch at the bottom of a vertical chute, a shady flat landing, or a flat out boulder fest, the Zeb gets you through without any harsh bottom outs, and always feels like there’s something left in reserve. 

Chassis stiffness is as you’d expect from a 38mm fork, and I’m sure it does flex, but it’s certainly not something I’ve noticed. But while it is definitely stiff, that doesn’t translate into a stiff or jarring ride, and the fork holds a line impressively through choppy ground without getting deflected or offering too much feedback.

Clicking dials on the new damper definitely has a noticeable effect on the performance of the fork. While I settled on 5 from open on the LSC, I could easily run a click either way depending on exactly what terrain I was riding, and if it was just super steep then a couple of  extra clicks of LSC has a noticeable effect on keeping the front up.

The Ride – Super Deluxe Ultimate

The Super Deluxe Ultimate was replacing an Öhlins TTX2Air, a shock that I really rate and so far it’s not disappointed. After experimenting with the various compression settings I settled on running everything fully open to get the most small bump compliance, and keep a supple and more playful feel to the bike. 

As with the fork, the shock was fitted to a bike that needs to be pedalled and it does that just fine. There’s no major pedal bob, and if you want to use the pedal platform, it does a good job of firmiing things up. I never felt the need to flip the switch though and only ever tried it to see how it felt.

Once things start pointing back down and speeds increase it does a great job of dealing with low level trail chatter, hovering across sections of rough trails and carpets of roots, while maintaining speed, and keeping enough in reserve for loading things up and gapping over sections.

On big, fast, repeated hits it remains focussed, and composed, soaking things up without bucking or bottoming harshly, keeping the rear wheel tracking the ground and on line. It handles square edge hits well, getting the rear end out of the way without hanging up or stalling, and doesn’t get phased by overzealous flat landings. 

Like the fork, it seems to run nicely in the middle of it’s travel, offering plenty of grip and support for off cambers or hitting berms. You can really push the back end into turns and there’s loads of support for a bit of slip and grip and springing back out. Occasionally I’ve added a click of HSC if the trails I’m riding are purely fast, rocky, big hit after big hit, just to add some extra support. But for general riding I’ve left it fully open.

While I’ve only had the New Zeb Ultimate and Super Deluxe Ultimate fitted for a short amount of time, it’s been long enough to form an impression, and I’m impressed. The new dampers – in both the fork and shock – are an improvement over previous iterations and offer genuinely useful and usable adjustments. 

When things get rough they both work amazingly to keep things in check and get you through any section. 

If I had to pick one, I’d probably say that the fork has impressed me most, but, they offer a balanced feel to the bike without either particularly outshining the other. The performance is properly top drawer, and while the price has increased , they’re still at the lower end of other manufacturers top flight bouncers.

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Issue 145 Kit Essentials – Coil Shocks

Review Info

Ad Sales Manager

Ross pairs his childlike excitement for bikes with a complete disregard for the wellbeing of his ribs, or his rims. Best known for riding cheeky trails, his time is also spent trail building in his local woods, drinking beer, eating pies and entertaining his two children.

• This topic has 7 replies, 7 voices, and was last updated 1 year ago by penguino12 .

Ross – Did you run any tokens in the fork?

And can you articulate the specific changes/improvements vs. the previous Zeb Ultimate?

PS. I mean in terms of how it feels and performs on the trail, the tech stuff is all quite clear, ta.

Super – Deluxe – Ultimate

This had better be top of the range for ever or they’re gonna run out of words and space to describe it.

As per the dad car thread a couple of weeks, what’s wrong with L, GL, GLS, SRi, CD?

Not sure if this is the place to ask but was just about to order some RXF 38 m.2’s (and a Madonna v2.2 probably with TTX22M), but see these new Zebs are out and noticed you’ve recently reviewed both. How do the forks compare, pro’s con’s and can you say which is better or which you prefer?

Raaw don’t offer rockshox shock options but also interested to know how the super deluxe ultimate compares to TTX2 Air.

Ross has gone away to escape the jubilee debauchery. He retreats to a Welsh Bermuda triangle (a Bwlchgwyn Triongl if you like) devoid of malignant invisible forces such as radio reception, phone signal or wifi – the sort of place where they drink lighter fluid and threaten each other with dead fish – so im sure he will respond to the questions when its safe to emerge again.

What stroke shock did you run on the Madonna, the 60mm or 65mm? And which air can, the linear or progressive? I have a Madonna V2, and was told by Ruben at Raaw that the rock shock 65mm shock didn’t work with it as the air can hit the lower shock mount at full compression. This however was with the previous version, not the new one, so may be different now.

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RockShox Zeb Ultimate and Super Deluxe Ultimate MY23 first ride review

• Danny Milner
• May 26, 2022

Comprehensive update for RockShox's premium forks and shocks focuses on reducing harshness and improving adjustability and control

RockShox MY23 Zeb Ultimate fork Credit: Mick Kirkman

Product Overview

Rockshox zeb ultimate.

• Supple, controlled, usable range of adjustment, simplified tuning, cheaper than its main rival
• Not all models get HSC and LSC control, ButterCups or Pressure Relief Valves

Manufacturer:

With multiple internal and external updates, the MY23 RockShox range promises to be its best yet. Find out what’s new and how the changes perform on the trail.

Looking for the full range update overview, plus prices, spec and availability? Check out our guide to everything you need to know about the MY23 RockShox range .

RockShox MY23 need to know

• Comprehensive overhaul of RockShox Pike, Lyrik and Zeb forks as well as Deluxe and Super Deluxe shocks
• New Charger 3 damper with independent high-speed and low-speed compression adjustment
• Buttercups rubber bumpers reduce harshness from trail buzz
• New DebonAir+ air spring with metal construction
• Longer bushings for increased stiffness
• Pressure Relief Valves release air trapped in lowers
• New RC2T shock damper with independent high-speed and low-speed damping
• Newly introduced Hydraulic Bottom Out control

RockShox MY23 Zeb Ultimate fork and Super Deluxe shock fitted to the Specialized Turbo Levo Pro

80 pages. That’s how long the press release runs to for the new MY23 RockShox suspension line-up. Considering brevity is one of the pillars of a good press release, it just goes to show how much is going on with RockShox’s updated range of premium forks and shocks.

Pike, Lyrik and Zeb all get new chassis, dampers and air springs, while on the shock side there are new dampers, a hydraulic bottom out control and a variety of air cans to choose from. Suffice to say, trying to get to grips with all the changes is enough to induce a tech coma. For a run down of how the updates are distributed across the range, check out our separate MY23 RockShox news story.

Rather than dive into the minutiae of shims and valves and oil pathways, let’s get back to basics; what did RockShox want to achieve? In its own words the goals were: ‘deliver unprecedented control’; ‘mute trail chatter’; and ‘win the fight against friction’. All this alongside a quest for real tunability – giving tangible adjustment of suspension parameters to help riders achieve their ultimate set-up.

The new Zeb gets a sharp new look and upgraded internals

RockShox Zeb Ultimate fork – Updated chassis

Outwardly the new Zeb Ultimate shares its chassis with the Flight Attendant model launched last year, minus the electronics of course. In fact the Zeb, Lyrik and Pike all get the new chassis introduced at the Flight Attendant level in 2021, which means updated angular aesthetics alongside a claimed extra 20% torsional stiffness, Pressure Relief Valves on the back of the lowers to release trapped air, and Buttercups at the base of each leg to reduce high frequency trail buzz.

Press the button to release pressure build-up in the lower legs due to temperature or altitude changes

Many of us are familiar with excess pressure bleeders on the lower legs since Fox introduced them on its 38 and 36 platforms in 2020 (those with really good memories may even recall sticking a zip-tie down the stanchion), but the ButterCups are a new concept worthy of greater explanation.

If you’ve got this sticker on your forks, then you’re in for a smoother ride

ButterCups take the sting out of the trail

Much like in your car’s suspension top mounts, or, as Patrick Bateman would probably testify, chainsaw buffers, rubber is used to help isolate the moving component from the rest of the machine and the operator. In this case, the ends of the air spring and damper shafts sit sandwiched between two rubber donuts, which are housed inside gold anodised cylinders.

The donuts allow a small amount of vertical movement (4mm) and, according to RockShox, they reduce the severity of small, high-frequency vibrations  by over 20%. Specifically we’re talking about a range between  6-10Hz, or 6-10 times per second – think the off-road equivalent of driving over cat’s eyes, or as RockShox suggests, riding over horses’ hoofprints in dried mud.

ButterCups consists of an upper and lower rubber puck housed inside the gold chamber. This helps cut out some high-frequency bumps before they get to the damper rod and travel up the fork into the rider’s hands

RockShox has increased the lower bushing length by 53%, maximising overlap and minimising friction –  because the uppers and lowers remain better aligned through their travel, binding is reduced and they run more smoothly.

The new all-alloy air spring assemblies for (top to bottom) Zeb, Lyrik and Pike. Note the ButterCups at the base of the air spring shaft and the shock style seal to reduce friction and control the air as it passes over the simple that balances the positive and negative air chambers

New all-alloy air-spring assembly aims to maximise travel while retaining sensitivity

Going back to the drawing board has allowed the engineers to look closely at the desired spring curves, with the new forks gaining an updated DebonAir+ air spring. Nylon parts have been replaced with machined alloy, improving production tolerances and maximising air volumes, while extensive work has gone into the design of the air spring seal head and the dimple that balances the positive and negative air chambers.

A new shock-inspired seal assembly helps reduce friction and improve consistency, and along with other changes, is said to give the air spring a softer initial response while still giving good support and access to all the available travel.

Detail of the air spring seal with its double lip seal and nylon glide ring

RockShox has been tinkering with the air springs – particularly on Lyrik – for a few years now, and in terms of ride feel, the new fork sits somewhere between the original (soft) 2018 DebonAir and the last generation (2020) version, with its higher ride height. As Zeb has a large air volume, pressures are low (I ran 64psi) which means small changes in air pressure can have a big effect on ride feel.

Inside the new Charger 3 damper. On the left is the IFP with the spring above. In the middle is the compression damping assembly with the LSC and HSC adjuster on the left and the LSC valve on the right. The HSC valve is the red anodised part bottom left.

Charger 3 damper – no more bladder

The most significant development – and this applies to Lyrik and Pike as well as Zeb – is the Charger 3 damper. Completely new from the foot nut up, Charger 3 moves to an internal floating piston pressurised by a coil spring instead of the bladder system used by the Charger 2.1.

In fact RockShox has entirely moved away from the bladder design on all MY23 forks. This is because the IFP brings a more consistent pressure to the damping circuit, it’s self-bleeding – making it more consistent over longer periods – and doesn’t require such tight sealing, allowing for reduced friction.

It’s worth noting that Fox’s Grip2 damper, found on its Factory and Performance Elite forks, also uses a coil-sprung IFP.

Note the intricacy of the porting for the oil flow on the compression damper. Another view inside the ButterCups on the right

While Charger 3 gets high and low-speed compression control, just like the Charger 2.1, RockShox wanted to reduce what’s known as cross-talk, or in other words, the influence that one adjustment has on the other. Make a change to one aspect of damping with Charger 3 and it will only have an impact on that parameter.

Alongside this goal, was the aim of creating a real usable range of damping, where each click makes a noticeable and consistent difference, and simplifying the dials so you don’t get lost in clicks.

On the damping dials, there are 15 clicks of low-speed compression damping and 5 clicks of high-speed, but all within less than one full turn of the dials, so you don’t get lost in the settings

New approach to dialling-in your damping

On Charger 3 there is a middle, or neutral setting, and you either add or subtract damping from there. For HSC there are five clicks (neutral and +/-2), LSC has 15 and LSR has 18.

Why no high-speed rebound adjustment as offered by Fox? Because RockShox believes the trade-off between added complexity and improved control is less significant on the rebound side as the two adjustments can have a lot more influence on each other and the range of shaft speeds are much closer than they are on the compression side.

Rebound damping is easy to adjust with the large knurled dial. There are 18 clicks available

While we’re on the subject of the rebound circuit, there’s a new ‘silencer’ valve that deflects the oil flow and prevents it spraying into the chamber, which reduces the slurping noise. After all, a quiet bike is a fast bike.

Two final details carried over from the Flight Attendant forks  are the bolt-in dropout adaptors that let you run a hub without Torque Caps and still get the axle to align with the hub, and the specially formulated Maxima Plush Dynamic Suspension Lube.

The RockShox MY23 Super Deluxe Ultimate shock

Super Deluxe Ultimate shock

With its new RC2T (Rebound, Compression x2 and Threshold) damper, the new Super Deluxe Ultimate air and coil shocks aim to give you increased control over tuning.

There are five base tunes available to manufacturers when speccing a bike, and RockShox says a full sweep of the adjustment dials can get you from the midpoint of the next lightest tune to the midpoint of the next firmer tune, without fitting a different shock.

Low-speed compression damping is adjusted with the dial on the side of the reservoir. High-speed compression uses a 3mm hex key and is just below the LSC dial in this photo. Low-speed rebound is adjusted by the ring dial around the top of the upper eyelet assembly

Once again, cross-talk has been significantly reduced, so each compression adjuster has more of an independent effect. Total clicks have been reduced and the shock ships in a mid, or neutral setting, so you turn it towards the + symbol for more damping and the – symbol for less.

There are five clicks for low-speed (the big dial) and five for high-speed (a 3mm hex key), and each click is said to have a more consistent and appreciable effect on what you actually feel on the trail.

That pyramid of horizontal lines indicates the shock has Hydraulic Bottom Out control

Hydraulic Bottom Out control softens the big blows

There’s a new kid in town when it comes to end stroke progression – Hydraulic Bottom Out. Found on some EXT and Push shocks, this technology aims to restrict the movement of damping fluid in the last 20% of the stroke. On air shocks the HBO is fixed, but on the coil version you can actually adjust it, giving very precise control over end stroke characteristics.

How do you know if your shock has it? Just look for the pyramid stack of lines at the base of the shock body.

RockShox MY23 Super Deluxe Ultimate shock is available in a mutliple configurations, 5 damping tunes and two air can options. Here the HSC adjust is easily visible on the reservoir

Can-do attitude to spring curve tuning

By using the damping circuit to reduce harsh bottom outs, riders can now use the air volume to adjust the spring curve, playing with initial sensitivity and levels of support.

To this end there are two air can options; progressive and linear. The progressive can has a bigger negative air volume (though less than a MegNeg) and more mid-stroke support, while the linear air can is the better option for bikes with progressive linkages. Regardless of type, the air cans can be tuned with Bottomless Tokens and Negative Tokens depending on the level of support and progression you desire.

As with the Charger 3 damper in the new RockShox forks, only low-speed rebound is user adjustable with the RC2T shocks.

Testing the RockShox Zeb Ultimate and Super Deluxe Ultimate in the Forest of Dean

How it Rides

The first thing that struck me about the new MY23 RockShox suspension was its soft initial touch. I’d probably best describe it as akin to fitting softer compound tyres front and rear, or letting 3psi out of my tyres, so it’s subtle but appreciable.

Can credit for this be traced back to ButterCups, or is it a collective symptom of many small improvements throughout the chassis, damper and air-spring? That’s really difficult to say as it’s impossible to isolate just one feature at a time, and largely it’s irrelevant too, as it’s the overall effect that’s important. Suffice to say that there is a definite gain in sensitivity with the new Zeb fork and Super Deluxe Ultimate shock.

The beauty of an e-bike is you can be more efficient with testing and set-up when running through different damping adjustments

Other testers here at MBR that have ridden the new products concur that these improvements can be felt on the trail in terms of reduced harshness and vibrations at the hand and better grip, particularly when cornering and you’re loaded up and pushing into the dirt.

When it comes to the complex and often confusing task of setting up your suspension, the new Charger 3 and RC2T have really stepped it up. They offer the ability to transform the performance and behaviour of your bike in a methodical manner but manage to be straightforward and intuitive at the same time.

For example, adding low-speed damping really stabilises the geometry of the bike and adds support, but doesn’t kick you into the weeds over the slightest bump, while opening it up generates noticeably more grip. One or two clicks difference can be felt on the trail, but the bike still remains rideable at both extremes of adjustment.

The 160mm Zeb gave ample stiffness on the front of our Specialized Turbo Levo

RockShox has certainly delivered on its promise of reduced harshness. Feedback is filtered, chatter is muted and I started to worry less about small bumps and slim roots bisecting the trail, as there was enough consistency in the grip that only the bigger holes and chunkier tubers disrupted my flow.

Full travel was achievable at the back, although I never registered any of those events thanks to that hydraulic bottom out. Land deep off a jump or drop and the bike feels ready to go immediately – there’s no need to wait for everything to settle down before getting back on the gas or making a change of direction.

Up front, however, I’m still a little shy of achieving full travel. There’s around 13mm left on the table that I’m yet to unlock, so my to-do-list includes trying it without a Bottomless Token and reducing the pressure slightly but adding a touch more low-speed compression, then seeing which one feels better.

For reference (I’m 76kg, 5ft 10in), fitted to a MY21 Specialized Turbo Levo Pro S4, I ended up as follows (all from full closed):

• Air pressure: 64psi
• Air pressure 192psi
• Air can Linear

It’s still early days for the new RockShox stuff – I’ve only managed to get a few rides in on the new bits – but first impressions are good and this is a significant step up in performance from the previous generation. The Zeb is now much more in line with the Fox 38 Performance Elite in terms of damping control and tunability, yet it’s still £120 cheaper than its rival. Likewise, the new rear shocks have risen to a level where they can compete with the likes of the Fox Float X2, but they’re £160 less at full SRP. We’ve got more testing to do to find out which delivers the ultimate performance, but whichever way the verdict falls, there’s no doubt that the result is going to be tighter than ever.

2023 RockShox Super Deluxe and Super Deluxe Coil

Reviewer: 6’, 170 lbs / 183 cm, 77.1 kg

Test Location: Washington, Oregon, British Columbia

Test Duration: ~4.5 months

Bolted to: Nicolai G1 & Santa Cruz Hightower

Blister’s Measured Weight:

• Super Deluxe Ultimate Air (230 x 65 mm): 490 g
• Super Deluxe Ultimate Coil (230 x 65 mm, w/o spring): 507 g
• 350 lb spring: 410 g
• Super Deluxe Ultimate Air: $599
• Super Deluxe Ultimate Coil: $549 (shock only); $37 (spring)

RockShox gave the core of their suspension a major overhaul this year, launching new versions of the Pike, Lyrik , and ZEB forks , along with new versions of the Deluxe and Super Deluxe rear shocks, in both air and coil versions. Having now spent several months on both the air and coil Super Deluxe Ultimate, the brand’s more downhill-oriented Trail / Enduro / DH shock, RockShox has done a nice job of making a pair of high-performing, easily tunable rear shocks.

Some Background Info

RockShox offers the Super Deluxe in both air- and coil-sprung versions, and in a variety of configurations with different feature sets and adjustments. You can check out our 2023 RockShox lineup article for all the details on the new shocks, but here we’re going to focus on the Super Deluxe Ultimate and Super Deluxe Ultimate Coil, as configured for my Nicolai G1, with the hydraulic bottom-out (HBO) feature on both, and with the “Linear” air can in the case of the air shock.

The damper design of the two is largely the same (though the details of the hydraulic bottom-out circuit differ, and the Coil version features an external HBO adjustment — again, check out our First Look for the rundown) and I’ve spent a lot of time with both versions on the Nicolai G1, plus the air version on a Santa Cruz Hightower, and have come away impressed.

When RockShox launched their new suspension lineup earlier this year, RockShox’s Chris Mandell and I set up my Nicolai G1, which serves as my long-term parts-testing bike, with the (excellent) new ZEB and a Super Deluxe Ultimate for review. The fork was immediately impressive, and the shock showed quite a bit of promise but didn’t feel like the best fit for the bike (which, to be fair, was effectively designed around a custom EXT Storia coil shock). The Super Deluxe felt consistent and predictable, and the damper felt like it was doing its job nicely, but it also felt like the G1 just wasn’t the best fit for an air shock of any sort.

For one thing, the Super Deluxe Air is only compatible with the G1 in the bike’s shorter-travel setting; in the longer-travel one, the rocker link fouls on the shock stanchion about halfway through the travel. This is more of an issue with the frame than the shock, and having looked into it some more, it turns out that quite a few other air shocks have a similar limitation on the G1.

Between not being able to use the longer-travel setting and the fact that the G1’s linkage is quite progressive, the Super Deluxe Air never felt like the best fit for that bike — but again, I’d put that down to the frame itself, rather than any sort of shortcoming on the shock’s end. Irrespective of shock choice, I’ve generally preferred the long-travel setting on the G1; the extra travel feels welcome, given the bike’s intentions, and the slightly lower dynamic ride height in the rear (due to extra sag / suspension movement) makes the bike feel a bit more balanced and composed in faster, rougher sections in particular. So I was quite excited to try out the coil version, and after a couple of months with the Super Deluxe Air, RockShox set me up with its coil-sprung sibling so I could compare the two.

In the midst of all that, I also spent a lot of time on the Super Deluxe Ultimate Air that came stock on our Santa Cruz Hightower test bike, and that combination clicked much more promptly. The Hightower is both shorter travel and significantly less progressive than the G1, and the version of the Super Deluxe spec’d on the Hightower also forgoes the optional hydraulic bottom-out feature, deciding (correctly, in my opinion) that the frame itself was progressive enough to take care of things.

Super Deluxe Ultimate Air

After a little fine-tuning on the Hightower, I settled into running the Super Deluxe with both compression adjusters at the “0” position (i.e., the middle of the range), which equates to one click firmer than Santa Cruz’s recommended baseline for both compression adjusters, and 178 psi in the air spring, very close to baseline for my 170 lb weight. With those settings, the Super Deluxe worked very well. The damper felt consistent and supportive without getting harsh on really sharp impacts; opening up the HSC by one click made the bike feel more plush, but it was blowing through its travel a little more quickly than I would have liked on really high-speed, medium-amplitude chatter (think a big mess of roots at speed).

It’s tough to say for sure, having not directly A/B’d the two on the same bike, but my hunch is that the new Super Deluxe can’t quite match the Fox Float X2 when it comes to small-bump sensitivity. The new Super Deluxe does feel smoother off the top and a bit more plush than its previous version, but I don’t think it fully closes the gap to the Float X2. But the Super Deluxe feels a little more lively without needing to speed the rebound up unduly and is substantially easier to set up — the work RockShox has put into that aspect of the shock has really paid off.

As with the prior-generation Super Deluxe, the climb mode on the new version is notably firm and makes a more dramatic difference in the climbing efficiency of the bike than most other shocks (and this is with the lighter “320 lb” tune on the climb mode; RockShox also offers a firmer 380 lb one). The difference is especially stark in comparison to the Fox Float X2 and DHX2, both of which have consistently featured a very lightly damped climb mode in the dozens of iterations that we’ve ridden at this point.

And I’m all for it. As I’ve said repeatedly on here, there’s no law saying you have to use your climb switch whenever you’re pointed uphill, so I’d much rather have a switch that makes a big difference and turn it on and off as appropriate. Yes, a firmer climb mode such as the one found on the Super Deluxe does compromise compliance and traction to some extent, but on a super technical climb where that feels like a limitation, you can always just turn it off. The Super Deluxe’s climb mode does also open up and starts to move if you really hit something hard, but under more normal climbing conditions, it’s quite firm and composed.

The climb switch knob is somewhat stiff and not the easiest to turn (especially going into climb mode; coming out of it isn’t quite as stiff) but it didn’t give me any major trouble. Particularly on the Hightower, with its low-slung shock, activating the switch while on the bike was a little tricky, but by no means impossible.

And so I was overall impressed with the new Super Deluxe Air, particularly on the Santa Cruz Hightower, which just felt like a better fit for an air shock than the Nicolai G1 on which I first tried the Super Deluxe Air. It’s a consistent, well-rounded, easily-adjustable shock with an especially effective climb mode, and it’s easy to imagine it working for a lot of riders on a lot of different bikes.

When I reviewed the Fox Float X earlier this year, I said that the prior-generation Super Deluxe felt like the best comparison to that shock that I’d been on, and while the new Super Deluxe is definitely still competing with the Float X for use on a range of Trail bikes, it now feels like a more fully-featured, high-performance option. The Float X still works well, is even easier to set up than the Super Deluxe Ultimate, and does still have a slight edge when it comes to small bump sensitivity and plushness. But the Super Deluxe feels a lot more supportive when you start pushing it harder, especially as you start to firm up the high-speed compression adjuster (which the Float X lacks) to deal with bigger, harder impacts.

Super Deluxe Ultimate Coil

After spending a little while with the Super Deluxe Air on my G1, RockShox set me up with an identically-tuned version of the Super Deluxe Coil for comparison, and as I’d expected going in, the coil felt like a better match for the long-travel, super-progressive bike. Not only could I use my preferred 175mm-travel setting, but the reduced progression, better midstroke support, and improved small-bump sensitivity all felt like better fits for the bike, and it didn’t take me long to have the Super Deluxe Coil feeling very good.

As with the air-sprung version, the Super Deluxe Coil does an impressive job of balancing having an overall wide range of damper adjustments while still being straightforward to set up. There are only five settings each for the compression adjustments, with each click making a noticeable difference. RockShox’s new system of indexing all the adjustments to the middle of the range and having the compression knobs visually indicate their respective setting does make it easy to find a solid baseline setting (start at the middle “0” setting and go from there).

Discussing rear shock settings is tricky because they’re so dependent on not just the rider’s preferences, style, and the specific bike in question, but also the specific tune on the shock. But on the Super Deluxe Coil on my G1, I wound up running the low-speed compression adjuster at “0” (i.e., the middle of the range), the HSC at +1, and the hydraulic bottom-out fully closed.

The adjustable hydraulic bottom-out feature on the Super Deluxe Coil also makes a big difference in the shock’s performance, and the range of adjustment available is strikingly large. With the HBO in one of the lighter settings, I was definitely noticing some significant bottom-out events on harsher, flatter landings, in particular; firming up the HBO circuit made a big difference in just making those events disappear. It’s not so much that I notice the HBO doing its thing as I notice an absence of significant bottom-out harshness — which is just what I want out of it.

In thinking about whether or not to opt for the hydraulic bottom-out feature, it’s worth considering what exactly the HBO feature does. As the name would suggest, the idea is to add some bottom-out control to the shock, by adding additional compression damping in the last 20% of the stroke. But unlike increasing the spring rate / air pressure, or adding volume spacers to an air shock, the HBO dissipates the energy it absorbs as heat, rather than returning it on rebound. So adding HBO increases bottom-out resistance and makes the behavior more damped and controlled at the end of travel; if you want to add bottom-out resistance but make the bike feel more lively and poppy at the same time, you’re probably better off doing it through the spring instead.

In the case of the Super Deluxe Coil, I think most rider and bike combos will be better off with the HBO feature, both because coil shocks are inherently less progressive than air ones, and because the HBO on the coil shock is externally adjustable, and feels very light at the open end of the adjustment range. Things are less cut and dried with the air version. Not only is there more control over bottom-out resistance via volume spacers in an air shock, but they’re also inherently more progressive and (very generally speaking) need less help with bottom-out resistance. The more you want to make the bike harder to bottom out and make it feel more composed and controlled near the end of travel, the more sense the HBO feature makes.

The notably firm (in a good way) climb mode from the Super Deluxe Air carries over to the coil version, and in that respect and most others, they really do feel like versions of the same shock that are separated by just the spring design — which makes sense, given their similar overall damper designs.

It would be nice to see RockShox offer 25 lb/in increment springs, as a lot of other brands have started doing, instead of the 50 lb/in jumps that they currently offer. The 350 lb spring that I’ve been riding is working well for me (RockShox’s Chris Mandell and I also tried a 400 lb spring when we were first setting up the shock but agreed it produced too little sag), but I’m also running the HBO fully closed to compensate, and would be interested in trying a 375 lb spring if one was available. And unfortunately, RockShox uses a larger spring inner diameter than a lot of other brands, making it difficult to try a spring from another manufacturer. Especially for lower spring rates, 50 lb is quite a large percentage jump from one rate to the next, and there are definitely going to be folks who wind up caught in between spring rates.

[EXT’s springs do fit, diameter-wise, but are too short for the Super Deluxe to preload since the threaded portion of the shock body is relatively short. A 75 mm stroke EXT spring and a small spacer should work on the 65 mm stroke SuperDeluxe that I’ve been testing, but I haven’t managed to get one set up.]

Speaking of EXT, I’ve also run their excellent Storia V3 on the G1, and while the Super Deluxe Coil can’t quite match the EXT in terms of just how effortlessly supple it is off the top, I’ve been impressed with how well the Super Deluxe held its own against the Storia. Both shocks do a very good job of performing consistently and predictably, and in particular, both can be run with fairly firm compression damping without feeling harsh or spiky on really high-speed, chattery impacts.

Compared to the Storia V3, the Super Deluxe manages to be both easier and more intuitive to set up, while also having a wider range of damper adjustments available (especially on rebound). On the other hand, the Storia is quite a bit lighter, with both the shock itself and EXT’s lightweight springs contributing to the weight savings, and does have finer adjustment steps on the compression damping settings for folks who really want to dial things in.

The Storia is outstanding, especially for riders who have a clear idea of how they want their suspension to perform, and are willing to put some time into fully dialing things in, but the Super Deluxe doesn’t feel like a huge performance drop-off and is a great option for riders who either find that effort to dial in their setup to be intimidating or simply don’t want to pay the premium price for the Storia. The Storia is also relatively noisy, with a fair bit of rebound slurp, in particular. I can’t say that it’s ever really bothered me, but the Super Deluxe is near silent, for folks who do care.

Who’s It For?

Both versions of the Super Deluxe are very high-performing shocks that are especially easy to set up, particularly given that they also have a fairly wide range of damper adjustments and are tough to get feeling too far out of whack (at least if you’re starting with a reasonable base tune for the bike in question). The very most obsessive fine-tuners might want finer resolution on the compression damping adjustments, but I think RockShox has done a good job of balancing the total adjustment range with ease of tuning, and most people aren’t going to be left wanting finer increments between settings.

RockShox is covering a lot of bases with the Super Deluxe, with the pair of shocks intended for use on mid-travel Trail bikes through full-on DH rigs — basically, everything where downhill performance is ahead of minimal weight in the list of priorities. And especially with the newly-adjustable high-speed compression and optional hydraulic bottom-out feature, it feels up to the task. The Super Deluxe Air is, of course, heavier than most straight-body air shocks, but it still comes in at a reasonable weight and performs a lot better on the way back down than its lighter counterparts, and the Super Deluxe Coil is there for the folks who want to take that step up at the expense of a bit more weight.

The choice between the air and coil versions breaks down in typical fashion: the air shock is lighter, more fine-tuneable, and more progressive (even with the linear air can and no volume spacers); the coil has better small-bump sensitivity, a little more midstroke support, and is both more consistent in its performance across big temperature swings and doesn’t require periodic air pressure top ups. And of course, compatibility of the air and coil versions will vary depending on the frame you’re hoping to bolt them to, so check with your frame manufacturer if you’re not sure.

Bottom Line

The prior-generation Super Deluxe was already a good shock, but RockShox has made some major improvements to the new version, and it’s in the running for the best bang-for-buck option going for a great performing Trail/Enduro/DH shock at the moment. The new high-speed compression adjuster is welcome, as is the (optional) hydraulic bottom-out circuit, and the new damper design is smoother, more consistent, and less spiky at high speeds than the old one. Small-bump sensitivity is also improved, particularly on the air version.

The new Super Deluxe pulls off an impressive combination of being fairly tunable, with a fairly wide range of adjustment, while also being relatively easy to set up. It’s both a very good OE-spec shock that a lot of people will get along with out of the box and a worthy aftermarket upgrade for plenty of folks.

11 comments on “2023 RockShox Super Deluxe and Super Deluxe Coil”

The usual superbly detailed review. Kudos.

RS spring jumps @50 pounds in the lower ranges are tough — reminds me of the current SRAM gearing jump of 42 to 52. Ugh. And why can’t shock mfgs agree on an ID? Holy reminders of the myriad BB standards floating around.

Personal preference on big bike shocks is for a fairly gentle “climb” setting. I want to be able to benefit from it on steep, chunky climbs, and always find RS too stiff. More of a forest road climb setting.

Thanks für the Review Im waiting for a super deluxe ultimate with a bearing eyelet beeing available aftermarket. Im sick of sending my x2 to fox because of air in the oil. I would love to get a 2023 SD instead..

Super alloy racing is one company that makes 25lb increment springs for Rockshox, however they are quite hard to find. They are also significantly lighter than the rockshox springs which is nice.

FYI Fluid Focus in the US has them in stock and is their main distribution channel

Excellent review as always. I’ve been pondering between the storia and the new SD coil and this gives some new insight to that decision. What tune did you have on the super deluxe coil? I have been hearing good things about the progressive rebound option but can’t seem to find the it anywhere.

Of you know a Tuner WHO will Just give you a retune, ie shim configuration , For you, your rising Style and Bike. Then IT should be even stellar and still super price Tag. I have a Tuner in Germany who tkaes less than 100 Euro For Complete custom retune and soome Forum Guys Take around 50. That would make the sd a perfekt fit With No Need For the storia.

By the way,there is a new Premium custom shock from novyparts france which only Costs 649 Euro,is Made in france,completely serviceavle at Home, uses usual Norm seals you can get everywhere,has hsc,LSC,LSR and hydraulic bottom Out completely tailored to your weight,Bike and You. Even the length ist completely customizeable. Only drawback NO CLIMB SWITCH yet. Bit Not everybody needs that. So it would come down to preference and If you Like that IT IS Not priduced cheap in asia

Any thoughts on Super Deluxe vs Fox DHX? They’re in the same price range.

What is the diameter of the damper shaft on the new rock shox super Deluxe coil? I’ve tried to look everywhere and can’t find it because I need one that is very strong because my old Fox DHX2 is only 9 mm and their prone to break with my yoke style suspensions on my 2020 stumpjumper. I need a strong thick one. Please let me know.

It’s a 1/2” damper shaft.

More to the point, RockShox expressly condones running the 2023+ SD coil on almost every yoke-equipped bike out there. The only two exceptions they cite are the Commencal Meta Power TR and the Specialized Kenevo.

I read the Rockshox website and they say only the 2023 coil with steel shaft is compatible.

That note about the steel shafts is new, but it’s only in reference to the couple of specific bikes where the normal one isn’t approved. The standard 2023+ shock is approved for most bikes, even with yokes.

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2023 ROCKSHOX SUSPENSION REVIEW

Lyrik ultimate fork & super deluxe coil shock.

Photos & Words by Dario DiGiulio

When the new 2023 RockShox Lyrik and Super Deluxe were unveiled as part of a major line overhaul, some major claims were made. Over the past few years, many of the elements of the mountain bike have improved in leaps and bounds compared to the early days of the sport. One of the primary fields of development is in suspension technology, where companies appear to be able to one-up themselves year after year, no matter how good things get. Though it might seem like many of the changes that roll out are small, inconsequential tweaks, occasionally one of the main players will come to market with something completely different to anything that preceded it. In the case of the new RockShox suspension lineup, that is certainly the case, as they’ve completely redesigned their forks – on the inside at least – and brought a bevy of updates to the shocks as well. With all that new tech packed into one release, is it all for good?

The RockShox Lyrik Ultimate and the Super Deluxe Ultimate Coil (hereby referred to as “Lyrik” and “Super Deluxe” for my own sanity) have been staples in the RockShox lineup for a while now and cover one of the broader sections of the market. With the Lyrik’s travel bracket spanning from 140 to 160mm, it hits a point that fits many of the bikes people are riding these days. To match, the Super Deluxe has 26 different fitments available, and a form factor that should work with many of the coil-compatible frames on the market.

On the air spring side, there’s a refined version of the prior system, with an aluminium piston head opposed to the plastic previously, and a slightly tweaked negative/positive air chamber balance to help with support and small bump. Attached to the bottom of each of those shafts are one of RockShox’s cutest new technologies, the ButterCups. These are essentially captive elastomer bumpers that are meant to reduce high-frequency trail chatter and make for a smoother feel at the handlebar.

Yet another piece of new tech, this time closely copied from their chief competitor Fox, are the Pressure Relief Valves, which can be depressed after big changes in altitude or temperature to release pent up pressure in the lower legs, bringing things back to normal and preventing the movement of the fork from being influenced. For the Ultimate moniker models, RockShox has increased the bushing overlap, which should decrease sliding friction and increase the durability of the system. Sadly, neither this nor the ButterCups trickle down to the lower-tiered options for now, but it’s the primary way in which the Ultimate package stands out from the fleet. RockShox have also updated the lower-leg castings to allow for a direct mount fender, bolt-in torque cap adapters, and even a new color.

On the shock side, many of those updates carry over, starting with a redesigned damper, the RC2T. This promises to remove the “cross-talk” between the high and low circuits, and coupled with 20 clicks of rebound adjustment, riders will have plenty of range of adjustment to match your ride needs. The “T” stands for Threshold – their name for a climb switch/lockout lever. The Ultimate models come with 5-position Adjustable Hydraulic Bottom Out, which allows the rider to tune the last 20% of the stroke to match their frame’s bottom-out performance and crucially add extra support so heavy hitters don’t need to overspring their coil shock. The bushings on the shock have also grown, which should make for a smoother feel, and helps with the increased durability RockShox promises with the new model.

That’s a heap of new tech packed into a fork and a shock, but ultimately (pardon the pun) they’ve changed everything they can to provide a suspension package that competes with the other flagship models on the market. Pricing matches that expectation, with the 2023 RockShox Lyrik now coming in at $1,107, and the RockShox Super Deluxe between $549 and $580 depending on fitment. The fork weighs just north of 2,000 grams, and the shock weighs 900 in 230x65mm sizing with a 350lb coil spring.

I’ve been rocking the RockShox bouncy bits on my Specialized Stumpjumper Evo Alloy , a bike with the versatility and capability to match these products quite well. Testing conditions have been mostly bone dry, with a couple downpours to provide some slippery challenges to get through. Half of my time has been spent on my local trails in Bellingham, and the other half up in Whistler, in the bike park and on pedal-access trails in the valley.

Up front, I’m running the 160mm travel Lyrik option, and for the shock it’s the stock fitment of 210x55mm. I weigh around 175-180 pounds, and have settled on a 550-pound coil for my Stumpy, having spent a while on the 600. The 550 puts me at right around 27% sag on this bike, which feels like the sweet spot of climbing support, descending traction, and bottom-out resistance.

Though the fork and shock are meant to work in concert, it’s worth talking about each on their own, since people often mix and match with suspension components, or may upgrade one end of their bike before the other. I started off riding the Lyrik on its own, coming off my personal fork, which was the 170mm 2020 RockShox Lyrik Ultimate B1 version. This isn’t the most recent C1 air spring, as I preferred the ride feel of the B1 in steep rough terrain, which is typical to my area. I don’t want to get too much into the weeds, but that’s my baseline to compare with. Worth noting is the fact that although I was technically running a 10mm longer fork before, the exposed stanchion when riding is almost exactly the same on the new 160mm Lyrik, thanks to the higher ride height of the updated air spring.

First impressions can be deceiving, and in this case, they were a bit of an initial hurdle. I went out to a trail I know well, and rode it the way I always do, but felt like I couldn’t keep the front end planted through rough sections of trail. I also felt arm pump for the first time ever on that track. I knew immediately I needed to reconsider how I set things up. Talking to Chris Mandell, one of the product managers most familiar with the new RockShox lineup, his sole recommendation was to give the recommended settings an honest crack, and told me to refer to the Trailhead app that RockShox has developed for just this purpose. My aversion to doing that initially was based on how inaccurate the recommendations had been for my prior generation forks, where I tended to up pressure and reduce rebound compression quite a bit from its suggestions. Upon entering my info on the app, it spit out two numbers for me, and I stuck to them this time, even though they still felt a bit “off” bouncing around my back lot.

This skepticism was pretty much erased as soon as I got back onto dirt. The word I would use to sum up the new RockShox Lyrik is control. Compared to the last generation of Lyriks, I don’t think it feels as comfortable per se, but I do think it is more capable and composed at pace. It’s going to be hard to draw apples-to-apples comparisons between the new and the old though, because the two feel vastly different in almost every way. Old is fast shaft speeds, light damping, and a pretty linear feel until the end ramp. New is planted, muted, and a little more feedback, but with better support throughout the travel. I’m surprised by this, but I actually do notice a small improvement in how the fork acts over chattery loose trail conditions, probably in part due to those little ButterCups.

Prior to Crankworx, I had the opportunity to race the Whistler EWS100, and figured I’d throw the new suspension into the deep end and run the fork/shock combo I didn’t know at all for the back-to-back race and practice days. Over the course of practice, I was able to hone in on some compression settings that felt good at speed, and generally stuck to those recommended pressure/rebound settings as a baseline. My psi went up by one or two, my rebound sped up by one click, and the resulting 83 psi / 9 clicks is where I’ve remained since. The beauty of RockShock’s new Charger 3 damper is the relative adjustment on the compression circuits, which gives you a clean visual reference for where you’re sitting in the range of adjustment. At the moment, I’m -3 on the LSC, and -1 on the HSC, as I prefer to get that top bit of travel feeling as soft as I can while preserving most of the support.

All in all, the fork not only maintains traction and support through rough, loose, awkward sections of trail, it does so without making the slightest bit of noise, which is a pretty wild sensation when you’re used to the sound of rushing oil all the time. The fork also feels quite muted, as impacts are reacted to without blowing through the travel, giving kind of a soft catch feeling.

First is the satisfyingly simple yet effective adjustments you have tool-free access to. This makes bracketing settings quick and easy without getting lost in a myriad of potential setting combinations. Second is the hydraulic bottom out, which I came to appreciate when experimenting with spring weights. I was initially running a 600-pound spring but wasn’t sitting where I wanted to in the travel, so I swapped down to a 550. At this rate, mid stroke and top end support felt great, but on rare occasion I would find the rubber bumper at the end of the travel. After adding a couple clicks to the HBO, that last bit of travel is a much nicer transition, and makes the bike feel more composed in that end of stroke position.

I was able to get excellent grip out of the shock with both the 600- and 550-pound springs, as you can balance that top end feel to match your spring rate with the compression and rebound settings. The softer spring feels better in corners and steeper sections, as I’m able to pump into the travel a bit more and have more of the edge taken off in rough spots. Worth noting is just how well this shock climbs, and that’s not using the lockout switch – now called Threshold by the folks at RockShox. There’s enough support from the compression and spring to keep you at a comfortable ride height (on my Stumpjumper EVO at least), but the grip provided lets you scrape up the nastiest little bits of technical climbing, so long as you provide the power. To me, this is worth the loss in efficiency compared to an air shock, as those little tech climbs are a joy to clean.

As a system, the Lyrik and the Super Deluxe work wonderfully together. There’s enough range in the rebound to get things feeling very similar, and one should be able to tune front-rear balance perfectly with the few but substantial clicks on hand. I realize 38mm-stanchion forks are all the rage right now, but I can’t help but think that the majority of people running Zebs and 38s would be better off on something like the Lyrik to improve hand comfort and front wheel traction in situations where the stiffness isn’t called upon. It’s certainly up to the task of an EWS race, at my amateur pace at the very least, plus the lower system weight makes for a more well-rounded piece of kit for long days in the saddle.

The Wolf’s Last Word

Price: $1,107 : Lyrik Ultimate $549-$580 : Super Deluxe

Weight: 2,090g : Lyrik Ultimate 902g : Super Deluxe

Website: SRAM.com

Disclosure: Our team selects all of the products we review and do so with honesty and objectivity in mind. Some of the products we receive come directly from Competitive Cyclist, who also value our readers and have offered them a 15% discount (exclusions apply) on their first purchase by using LOAMWOLF15 . Through this program we may also receive a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support, TLW.

Class-leading control and composure Smooth and supportive Excellent two-part system

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First Ride | New 2023 RockShox Pike, Lyrik & Zeb Forks, AND Super Deluxe Air & Coil Shocks

The not-so-minor details.

2023 RockShox Pike, Lyrik, Zeb, Super Deluxe & Super Deluxe Coil

https://www.sram.com/en/sram

$752 AUD (Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate DH) - $1,747 AUD (Zeb Ultimate)

Huge news out of RockShox today, with the release of three new forks and four new shocks. For 2023 there’s a brand new RockShox Pike, Lyrik and Zeb, along with redesigned Super Deluxe air and coil shocks, updates to the Deluxe shock and the introduction of a new Deluxe Coil shock. Wowsers!

As we predicted when RockShox Flight Attendant launched last year, the US suspension brand will be rolling out those same technologies through the rest of its suspension range, including the ButterCups and a new DebonAir+ spring. That’s only half the story though, as RockShox has also developed a brand new next-generation Charger 3 damper for its non-electronic forks. There’s also a brand new RC2 damper for the Super Deluxe shocks, and the introduction of a Hydraulic Bottom Out system.

To get to grips with all the new tech, we’ve been testing a variety of forks and shocks over the past couple of weeks. Here we’ll be going through all of the details behind the new 2023 RockShox lineup, followed by our first impressions of riding the new suspension on our local trails.

With the Pike and Lyrik covering a tighter range of travel, the engineers have refined each chassis to reduce weight and increase torsional rigidity.

What’s changed with the new RockShox Pike, Lyrik & Zeb?

Starting up front, there’s a totally new RockShox Pike and Lyrik for 2023. Both forks receive an updated chassis with a new crown, upper tubes and lower legs. You’ll also spot pressure relief valves on the back of the lowers, and the dropouts will now take bolt-in adapters to make installation easier with a non-Torque Cap hub. There’s also a really neat machined alloy bolt on guide for the brake hose.

The Zeb chassis sees a less dramatic update, though it too receives the new dropouts and pressure relief valves.

Also of note is that these forks have had a slight reshuffle, with their travel range having been narrowed. Here’s where each fork sits for 2023;

• RockShox Pike – 120-140mm travel
• RockShox Lyrik – 140-160mm travel
• RockShox Zeb – 160-190mm travel

With the Pike and Lyrik covering a tighter range of travel, the engineers have refined each chassis to reduce weight and increase torsional rigidity. Furthermore, on the Ultimate level forks, new longer bushings provide more overlap for the upper tubes and are claimed to decrease friction. That’s complemented by a lighter lubrication oil that’s been developed in partnership with Maxima, which will be found inside the lowers of the new generation forks.

According to RockShox, the coil-backed IFP is more responsive than a bladder, and it’s more consistent regardless of where you are in the travel.

RockShox unveils new Charger 3 damper

The really big news from the release of the 2023 RockShox Pike, Lyrik and Zeb is the arrival of an all-new Charger 3 damper. It still features high and low-speed compression adjusters at the top, as well as a single rebound dial at the bottom of the fork, but that’s about where the similarities end. Charger 3 is entirely new, and shares no components with the previous 2.1 damper.

The main structural difference is the move to a coil-backed Internal Floating Piston (IFP) design. You’ll no longer find an expandable bladder, which RockShox has been employing in its high-end Charger dampers ever since the Pike was relaunched back in 2013. Instead, the IFP at the top of the Charger 3 damper accounts for fluid displacement as the fork compresses. According to RockShox, the coil-backed IFP is more responsive than a bladder, and it’s more consistent regardless of where you are in the travel. It’s perhaps for similar reasons that Fox moved away from bladder-based dampers in its long travel forks a number of years ago, with the GRIP and GRIP2 dampers also using a coil-backed IFP design.

This makes the damper basically silent, with no squishy noises to be heard while riding.

Diving deeper into the Charger 3 damper, RockShox has developed a new rebound piston with a tapered oil path that is claimed to reduce fluid turbidity. This makes the damper basically silent, with no squishy noises to be heard while riding.

Extensive work has also gone into the high and low-speed compression circuits, which RockShox claims are truly independent of each other. In theory, this means you can adjust across the whole range of the low-speed adjuster without affecting high-speed compression damping, and vice versa.

The adjusters are also new and adopt a fresh approach when it comes to setup. Both compression dials feature a neutral setting in the middle, and it’s recommended to start in this position before clicking the adjusters either way. The high-speed dial gives you two clicks on either side of neutral (five in total), while the low-speed dial has seven clicks either side (15 in total). You get 20 clicks of rebound damping via the big dial at the base of the fork.

There’s a new DebonAir+ air spring & ButterCups

Inside the other leg of the 2023 RockShox Pike, Lyrik and Zeb is the new DebonAir+ spring. First debuted on the Flight Attendant forks, the DebonAir+ spring features a new top-out bumper, changes to the transfer port position, and tweaked positive and negative volumes.

RockShox states that the air spring curve has been refined thanks to the narrower travel ranges of the new forks, with the DebonAir+ spring coming with the usual claims of improved off-the-top sensitivity and more mid-stroke support.

Because of its new architecture, the DebonAir+ spring is not backwards compatible with older Pikes and Lyriks. And as we found out when we went to fit a shorter air shaft to reduce the travel on one of our test forks, removing and installing the air spring is a way more involved process than before.

Part of this is due to the ButterCups, which have been brought over from the Flight Attendant forks. These are small rubber pucks that sit at the bottom of both the air spring and damper shafts where they bolt onto the lowers. According to RockShox, the ButterCups provide 4mm of vertical compliance that’s designed to soak up the low amplitude, high frequency vibrations that might not otherwise be absorbed by the air spring and damper. It’s claimed that the Buttercups reduce ‘trail chatter’ by 20%, with the aim of reducing feedback at the rider’s contact points. You’ll only find ButterCups on the Ultimate level forks, though they are available as an upgrade for lower tier models.

2023 RockShox Pike specs & price

Adopting all of those new technologies, the 2023 RockShox Pike is a high-performance trail fork that’s offered with 120-140mm of travel.

Featuring 35mm diameter upper tubes, the new chassis bears a close resemblance to the big Zeb, with a beautifully machined crown and sculpted lowers. According to RockShox, the new lower leg offers 13.5% more torsional stiffness over the old Pike.

All Pike models will be equipped with the DebonAir+ spring, though only the Ultimate and Select+ forks will feature the new Charger 3 damper. Speaking of options, the Charger RCT3 damper has disappeared, which means you’ll no longer find a high-end Pike with a lockout. Cheaper models will carry over the existing Charger RC and Rush dampers though.

While the Pike’s chassis has gotten lighter, the overall fork weight is unchanged since the Charger 3 damper is heavier. Confirmed weight for our 140mm Pike Ultimate is 1.88kg (including the Maxle and with a cut steerer), which is about the same as the previous version.

• Travel   | 120, 130 & 140mm
• Wheelsize   | 27.5in & 29in
• Stanchions   | 35mm Diameter
• Spring   |  New DebonAir+
• Damper   | New Charger 3 RC2 (Pike Ultimate & Select+), Charger RC (Pike Select), Rush RC (Pike)
• Lowers   | New magnesium lowers w/Pressure Relief Valves (Ultimate & Select+) & ButterCups (Ultimate)
• Bushings | Ultimate Bushing Package (Ultimate), Standard Bushings (Select+, Select & Pike)
• Axle   | 15x110mm Maxle
• Rotor size   | 180-220mm
• Max tyre clearance  | 2.8in
• Offset   | 37mm (27.5in) – 44mm (27.5 & 29in)
• Confirmed weight   | 1.88kg (140mm Pike Ultimate w/180mm Steerer)
• RRP | $1,191 AUD (Pike Select) – $1,588 AUD (Pike Ultimate)

2023 RockShox Lyrik specs & price

Having previously been offered with up to 180mm of travel, the 2023 RockShox Lyrik shrinks its travel range to 140-160mm to become a more purpose-built all mountain fork.

The upper tubes still use a 35mm diameter, but the chassis itself is all-new and unique to the Lyrik. Indeed a close look at it side-by-side with the new Pike reveals subtle muscular differences. According to RockShox, the new lower legs have increased torsional rigidity by 20%. The fork is slightly lighter than its predecessor, coming in at 2.02kg vs 2.08kg on our workshop scales.

As with the Pike and Zeb, the Lyrik will be available in four models. All Lyriks feature the same chassis with the DebonAir+ spring, with the top two models getting the Charger 3 damper. Cheaper forks carry over the existing Charger RC and Rush dampers. There are further differences to be found, with the Ultimate model equipped with ButterCups, pressure-release valves and the high-end bushing package. Cheaper models can be upgraded with some of those bells and whistles however.

• Travel   | 140, 150 & 160mm
• Damper   | New Charger 3 RC2 (Lyrik Ultimate & Select+), Charger RC (Lyrik Select), Rush RC (Lyrik)
• Bushings | Ultimate Bushing Package (Ultimate), Standard Bushings (Select+, Select & Lyrik)
• Confirmed weight   | 2.02kg (160mm Lyrik Ultimate w/180mm Steerer)
• RRP | $1,270 AUD (Lyrik Select) – $1,668 AUD (Lyrik Ultimate)

2023 RockShox Zeb specs & price

With the current Zeb having only been introduced in 2020, there are fewer updates compared to the Pike and Lyrik. It still features 38mm upper tubes and it’s available with 160-190mm of travel. That makes it the big-hitting enduro fork of the range, and the pick of the bunch for chunky e-MTBs.

Having adopted the DebonAir+ spring and Charger 3 damper, it is pretty much a whole new fork for 2023. The chassis is updated with pressure relief valves and bolt-in adapters for non-Torque Cap hubs, while the top-end Ultimate model gets the new ButterCups too.

• Travel   | 160, 170, 180 & 190mm
• Stanchions   | 38mm Diameter
• Damper   | New Charger 3 RC2 (Zeb Ultimate & Select+), Charger RC (Zeb Select), Rush RC (Zeb)
• Bushings | Ultimate Bushing Package (Ultimate), Standard Bushings (Select+, Select & Zeb)
• Rotor size   | 200-220mm
• Offset   | 38mm (27.5in) – 44mm (27.5 & 29in)
• Confirmed weight   | 2.32kg (Zeb Ultimate w/190mm Steerer)
• RRP | $1,349 AUD (Zeb Select) – $1,747 AUD (Zeb Ultimate)

2023 RockShox Super Deluxe Air & Coil

To go with the new forks, RockShox is introducing brand new Super Deluxe air and coil shocks. These draw on technology from the Flight Attendant shock , though there are also some similarities to the custom shock that RockShox codeveloped with Trek for the latest Slash .

The new shocks feature a completely redesigned damper called RC2 that, for the first time ever, introduces externally adjustable high-speed compression damping to the Super Deluxe. You get five clicks of high-speed compression adjustment via a 3mm hex key, and a tool-free dial provides you with five clicks of low-speed compression adjustment. The circuits are claimed to be totally independent of one another, and are built to match the performance of the Charger 3 damper up front.

It’s a similar tuning approach too. Assuming the base tune for the shock is correct for your bike, the idea is to start with those compression adjusters in the neutral position in the middle, and you’ve then got two clicks on either side to soften or firm up the damping to your liking. The big rebound ring remains, offering 15 clicks of adjustment.

There’s also a brand new air can design for the Super Deluxe shock, which is offered in two different styles; linear or progressive. The idea being that if your bike has a progressive leverage ratio, you can choose the linear air can, and vice versa. On top of that, it’s possible to tune both the positive and negative air chambers with plastic clip-in volume spacers.

Also new is the Hydraulic Bottom Out feature, which is an option for both the Super Deluxe air and coil shocks. This position-sensitive damping kicks in during the last 20% of the stroke, restricting oil flow to provide a stronger ramp-up and reduce the chance of bottoming out. On the Super Deluxe Coil shock, the HBO feature is adjustable with a 3mm hex key, allowing you to fine-tune the end-stroke progression of your bike. HBO is also available on the Super Deluxe air shock, though it’s preset and isn’t externally adjustable.

Needless to say, with the addition of the HBO feature, two new air can options, the ability to tune both positive and negative volume, and the arrival of external high-speed compression damping, the new Super Deluxe shocks offer a far greater range of adjustability than ever before.

• Spring   | Coil & New DebonAir+ Air (Progressive or Linear)
• Damper   | RC2T (Ultimate), RC2 (Ultimate DH), RT (Select+), R (Select)
• Hydraulic Bottom Out | Fixed (Air), Adjustable (Coil)
• Confirmed weight   | 464g (Super Deluxe Ultimate) – 840g (Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate)
• RRP | $752 AUD (Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate DH) – $903 AUD (Super Deluxe Ultimate)

Deluxe air & coil shocks

As if that wasn’t enough, RockShox is also introducing an updated Deluxe air shock. There are admittedly less changes here, with the damper designs and adjusters carrying over from the existing Deluxe air shock. However, it does benefit from the new air can used on the Super Deluxe shock. That means you’ve now got progressive and linear air can options, along with the ability to tune both positive and negative volume.

There’s also a brand new Deluxe Coil shock that uses an in-line design without a piggyback. This will allow it to fit more frames that are tight on clearance, though with just a single rebound adjuster, it is pitched as a cheaper no-frills coil shock.

Testing the 2023 RockShox suspension range

To test out the new 2023 RockShox suspension range, we’ve had a variety of forks and shocks fitted across four different bikes.

Mick’s Specialized Levo has been fitted with a 160mm travel Zeb Ultimate and a Super Deluxe Coil shock. He’s also got a 130mm travel Pike on the front of his Santa Cruz Tallboy .

We’ve then got a 160mm travel Lyrik Ultimate on the front of Trev’s Norco Sight , and Wil has a 140mm Pike and a Super Deluxe air shock on his Specialized Stumpjumper .

One downside with setting up the new forks is that, for some strange reason, there are no longer any sag guides on the upper tubes. We miss the ability to eyeball sag with those anodised gradients, and instead the ruler has had to come out to help us get the forks setup properly. Also, compared to the DebonAir C1 spring used on the previous Pike and Lyrik, the transfer port sits just below the seal head. That means you’ll need to compress the fork a few times to equalise pressures between the positive and negative chambers. It’s no big deal, but something to remember if you’re coming from one of last year’s self-equalising forks.

Speaking of the air spring, the overall level of support and progression has changed considerably. Both Pike forks and the Lyrik came from the factory without any Bottomless Tokens installed, and we found no need to add any. We all experienced sufficient end-stroke ramp-up, with no awkward bottom outs to speak of, despite rider weights ranging from 68kg to 86kg. Of course you can still add Bottomless Tokens as you like, but it’s clear that the new DebonAir+ spring offers notably improved support in its stock configuration.

Compression adjustments

As mentioned above, the tuning ethos is a little different with the new Charger 3 damper. On some forks, we’ll often wind the compression damping out to the lightest setting to achieve the plushest possible setup, or at least to begin with anyway. With the Charger 3 damper however, RockShox recommends starting out with both the low-speed and high-speed dials in the middle neutral position. From here you can adjust the dial to lighten or firm up the compression damping as needed.

This has been an interesting process, as both adjusters provide a noticeable change in suspension behaviour between each click, allowing us to search out a balance between comfort and big-hit control. Along with the clear markings on each dial, it makes tuning a less obnoxious process.

It also has to be said that the new machined alloy dials are an absolute pleasure to use. There’s a really nice feel to the clickers, with positive indents and quality machined detailing that makes them easy to adjust with or without gloves. We also love that the dials are furnished with easy-to-read markings. It reduces the guesswork and the need to count clicks, with most of the dials being easy to eyeball and adjust even while riding.

On the trail

The first thing you notice on the trail with the new forks is the fact that they are very quiet. Like, borderline silent . There’s no more slurping noise when the fork is rebounding, which is a surprisingly welcome feature given that modern bikes have become so much quieter overall.

The other aspect we’ve noticed is how much stronger the support is from the Charger 3 damper. Previous forks have placed more emphasis on the air spring to keep you high in the travel, with the damper tune being lighter overall. That relationship flips with the 2023 RockShox forks, with the damper playing a much more prominent role in maintaining the overall ride height.

It meant that with the compression dials set in that neutral setting, initially the forks felt stickier than we were expecting, and somewhat over-damped. That was especially the case with the shorter travel Pike, which in some situations was feeling a touch harsh.

In speaking with RockShox, it’s been recommended to try reducing the air pressure to bring about a more supple feel at the top of the travel. Given how strong the damping is and the fact that we’ve not been bottoming out heavily, we’ll be experimenting with air pressures to see if we can achieve the performance we’re after.

While small-bump sensitivity at cruising pace is yet to blow us away, the strong support from the Charger 3 damper does mean the new forks offer excellent high-speed control. When you’re pushing hard into berms and jack-hammering through rock gardens, the new damper is quiet, calm and composed. It plays well with the air spring’s mid-stroke stability, ensuring the fork remains in the active sweet spot without ploughing through the travel.

First impressions have been positive with the Super Deluxe air and coil shocks, which offer a similar level of usability when it comes to those external damping adjustments. We’re especially impressed by the adjustable HBO on the coil shock, which effectively eliminates one of the downsides of running a coil over an air shock.

We’ll continue to put more time onto both the forks and shocks over the coming months, which will include some back-to-back testing with current offerings from Fox, to see how the new RockShox suspension compares directly.

We’ll also be diving into some detailed discussions about dialling in those compression settings for everyday trail riding. There’s a lot to wrap your head around with the new fork and shock dampers, so we’ll be chatting with some experts to cut through the noise and explain how best to get your suspension setup. Stay tuned!

Flow’s early verdict

RockShox has come out swinging for 2023 with an enormous range of new product that encompasses some of the technology we expected to see trickle down from Flight Attendant, but also some brand new tech that we didn’t.

The move from a bladder-based damper to the new IFP-backed Charger 3 is an intriguing one, and there are clear advantages to the design along with improved usability from the high and low-speed adjusters. Along with the new DebonAir+ spring, there’s been a hefty boost in support that’ll likely be welcomed by hard-charging trail, enduro and e-MTB riders.

There’s an incredible amount of new tech going on with the rear shocks too, and we’re looking forward to diving into more of the tuning options on offer to see just how much performance we can squeeze out of them.

As to how the new RockShox Pike, Lyrik and Zeb stack up against the Fox 34, 36 and 38? It’s too early for us to provide a definitive conclusion, though we’ll be embarking on some back-to-back testing to find out, so stay tuned for our comparative reviews.

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DESCRIPTION In it to win it? Super Deluxe Ultimate is the smart bet for the podium. Packed to the hilt with fine-tuning adjustments that meaningfully improve suspension performance, it’s the most advanced shock we’ve ever made. Pioneering one of the most impactful innovations in damper history, the new RC2T damper allows for 100% independent High Speed and Low Speed Compression adjustments. The arsenal of elite technology rounding out Super Deluxe Ultimate is grounded in the philosophy that, at the highest level of capability, the extra ounce of performance and customization is what it takes to capture the crown.  

FEATURES RC2T Damper, the most tunable shock damper we’ve ever made, offers completely independent High Speed and Low Speed Compression adjustments, eliminating “cross-talk” so you can tune your shock to exactly how you want it to perform. DebonAir+ air spring maximizes fine-tuning potential, allowing you to tune both the negative and positive air volume to perfectly match your bike, desired ride feel, and the trail ahead. 15 clicks of Rebound adjustment offer a wider range of tunability and accommodate more rider types. Castled bottom out bumper reduces harsh bottom-out, leaving extra room for the bold to go big. Increased bushing overlap maximizes small bump performance and grip. Separate and independent Open and Threshold pistons tuned exactly for your ride. Fresh new premium graphics package to flash on the podium or as you blaze past your buddies on the doubletrack. Top-of-the-line Maxima Plush Dynamic Suspension Lube reduces friction to help maintain traction.

RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T

$ 599.00

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RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate Coil Review

This is RockShox’s brand new Super Deluxe Ultimate Coil, and today, we will be telling you about three features this shock has that no other coil shock on the market can match.

With every generation of new products, manufacturers like RockShox try to cram as much innovation as they can into their fresh product line, and the Super Deluxe Ultimate Coil is no different. RockShox has completely redesigned the chassis and damper - the all new RC2T damper .

This damper has a rebound knob with 20 clicks, low and high speed compression knobs with 5 clicks, a brand new Hydraulic Bottom Out adjuster with 5 clicks, and to top it all off, a lockout lever that gives a rock solid climbing platform. It comes in a whole bunch of sizes to fit on pretty much any trail, enduro, or downhill bike, and you can choose between a stealth black coil or a classic RockShox red coil .

I’ve been riding the heck out of this shock for a few months now and I’ve been seriously impressed.

Just like other high end coil shocks, the Super Deluxe Ultimate Coil is crazy sensitive and gives you that ground hugging feel, but that’s actually not why we’re here. There are three specific features of this shock that really set it apart from the competition, and that first feature is the adjustable Hydraulic Bottom Out control.

Adjustable Hydraulic Bottom Out

Coil shocks are inherently linear, so it’s going to be easier to use all of your travel, when compared to an air shock. A linear leverage rate means it takes the exact same amount of force to compress this shock the entire way through the travel, and most coil shocks have a little rubber bump stop at the end of the stroke to absorb the impact of bottoming out. The Super Deluxe Coil has that same rubber bottom out bumper, but it also has an adjustable Hydraulic Bottom Out, or HBO for short.

When you enter that last 20% of your travel, a stanchion inside of your stanchion (WHAT?!!?) enters the HBO chamber, and it pushes oil into the piggyback of the shock. With a little purple 3mm adjuster, you’re able to control how quickly the oil can rush into the piggyback, and adjust your end stroke ramp up. Less oil flow means more bottom out resistance, and keeping you from clanging off the bottom on those big sends. Now, when you send it into the next zip code you’ll have a comfy hydraulic pillow waiting for you at the bottom of your stroke.

What does this feel like on the trail? Well anticlimactically, not much! But that’s a good thing, because every time you would feel that clang of the bottom out, you just don’t! You won’t feel like you’re running out of travel because it happens in such a controlled manner.

I’ve been running this shock on my Transition Spire , which has 23% progression in its leverage curve, and we don’t want to get too into the weeds about which bikes coil shocks work best on, but I usually prefer running coil shocks on bikes with about 25% or more progression. With the stock link, I ran my HBO in the +2 setting, right in the middle, giving the shock a nicely supported end stroke. This was super comfortable for normal trail riding here in Bellingham, but I spent a day riding up in the Whistler Bike Park and after feeling more bottom-out than I’d like, I gave it another click to take the edge off of those bigger compressions Whistler is known for.

Setting up your HBO is a little different to other suspension settings, because you’ll know it’s dialed in when you don't even notice it. If you’re running too much HBO, it’ll feel like you’re bottoming out before you run out of travel. If you aren’t running enough HBO, you’ll actually run out of travel and feel that bottom out. Once you find that goldilocks setting right in the middle, you’ll get that bottomless feeling of just kissing the rubber bump stop before rebounding back.

I’ve also been playing around with this Cascade Link, which slightly changes the rear suspension characteristics of this bike, and increases the progression of the leverage ratio to 28%. With the aftermarket link I ran the HBO in the +1 setting and let the kinematics of the linkage do more of the heavy lifting when it comes to the end stroke.

HBO opens up the compatibility of coil shocks to a wider range of bikes with less progression in their leverage ratios, and I would personally run this shock on any frame with at least 20% progression. Does this mean you can’t run this shock on a frame with less progression than that? Definitely not! It comes down to personal preference and I just prefer a more progressive rear end, I know plenty of people who ride coil shocks on bikes with fairly linear leverage curves with no issue, and this shock also works on bikes with even more progression than this Spire. When the HBO is fully open, there’s still a bit of added compression in the last 20% of the stroke, but it’s very similar to any other normal coil shock end stroke, and definitely more linear than any air shock.

When you run a coil shock on a more linear bike, you often have to increase your spring rate and run less sag than recommended to keep from bottoming out too often, and for these bikes, HBO is a huge game changer. Running too stiff of a coil defeats the purpose of a coil shock because you’re losing out on that super supple initial stroke that we love coil shocks for. With HBO, you can run the right spring weight for your bike and weight without having to compromise on end stroke performance.

RockShox RC2T Damper

Now let’s move onto reason number two why I love this shock and that’s how dang simple it is to tune this new RC2T damper.

I know it’s easy to get lost in the clicks when you’re setting up your fancy suspension, but RockShox is putting an end to that. By cutting down on the total number of clicks and being able to see how many clicks you have at a glance, setting up this suspension is pretty dang straightforward.

All of your compression and HBO adjusters only have 5 possible settings, way less than other high-end suspension products. With so few clicks, it’s easy to assume that you won’t have the range of adjustability to tune your suspension to be buttery smooth, but just like your friend who thinks the gap between his knee pads and shorts is sick, you’d be wrong. RockShox has struck a balance between having a wide range of adjustability and a usable number of clicks. When you take your new shock out of the box, you’ll find the adjusters set in the middle of their range.

You don’t have to go two or three clicks to feel something anymore, and now every single click is going to have an impact on how your shock performs. RockShox has also claimed to have eliminated what they call “CrossTalk” from your high and low speed compression by moving them farther away from each other in the compression circuit. By keeping them physically separated from each other, adjusting one won’t influence the other. This definitely helps with tuning because once you’ve found how much low speed compression you like, adjusting your high speed compression won’t mess that up!

Once I found the right spring rate, I was able to set the Super Deluxe Coil up on the very first ride, which I’ve never been able to do with another shock. Even with all the compression and rebound adjusters set to the middle setting, the suspension felt great right out of the box, and only required some really quick bracketing to fully dial it in. I ended up at +1 click of LSC and HSC, and rebound 14 clicks from closed to get this shock feeling dialed in.

This gave me a great balance of that supple ground hugging traction we expect from coil shocks, as well as some playfulness to keep things interesting. The level of composure the Super Deluxe Coil delivers through chattery sections like braking bumps or webs of roots is very impressive. This shock felt pretty indifferent to whatever I threw at it, whether that was pulling for ambitious doubles or death gripping through chunky impacts, and I ended up running a faster rebound than I’d usually opt for. It made my rear end feel happier to take repeated impacts and also have a little spring in its step when popping off little trail features.

Another little feature that just makes so much sense on the RC2T Damper is the little ticks etched on the outside of your adjusters to tell you where you are in your compression or HBO circuits. You can just look down and see exactly how many clicks you’re running without having to get out the multi-tool and count clicks. If this shock wasn’t incredibly straightforward to set up, I would be more excited about this feature, but I just don’t feel the need to turn knobs that often with this shock.

RockShox also offers bike specific tunes for their new shocks! This means that just like those super fancy boutique shocks you see on those crazy dream builds, your Super Deluxe Coil can be tuned specifically for the bike that you install it on to get the absolute most performance out of your shock. Custom tuning is going to be most important for riders whose weight is farther out on either end of the spectrum, under 140 lbs or over 210 lbs, or for a very particular and experienced rider who can feel the shortcomings of their current shock tune.

Unfortunately, this isn’t a job for most home mechanics, because the shock requires a full tear down to get access to the shim stack. At the time of filming this, the custom tuning program is still in its infancy, and it’s been a little tough to get our hands on the parts we need to build these precise shim stacks, and we’re hoping that RockShox develops this further in the future. In previous generations of their rear shocks, RockShox has sold shocks for specific bikes that already have the ideal tune for that rear suspension, so they might bring this back in the future, but it’s hard to say!

The third and final reason why we’re huge fans of this shock is pretty simple, and that’s the value of it!

At $549 for the Ultimate spec , there aren’t any other shocks at this price point that offer this level of customization, performance, and reliability you can expect from the Super Deluxe Coil.

Between the custom tuning, hydraulic bottom out adjuster, and flat out impressive traction this shock gives you, this has quickly become my favorite coil shock on the market. No other coil shock has all of these features, and the ones that come close are almost twice as expensive!

This shock would be a perfect fit on any bike where you’re looking for ultimate traction. Whether you’re a racer and trying to squeeze out every last millisecond or you’re a weekend warrior who appreciates getting the most performance you can out of your shiny two wheeled machine. Even if you love climbing as much as you love descending, this is the coil shock to buy. With the extra traction of a coil shock, it’s been easier to clean those technical moves where spinning the rear tire costs you a dab, and the climb switch gives you a surprisingly solid climbing platform that seriously does not bob at all when you’re pedaling, perfect for those long fire roads.

Ok, we’ve been tooting this shock’s horn for a bit now, is there anything we didn’t like about this shock? Well, we really wish that RockShox offered their coil springs in 25 pound increments. With the 50 pound jumps between spring weights, it’s super common to be caught inbetween them and have to compromise. You’ll notice I’ve been running a Sprindex on this shock, and that’s just because it’s the only way to get the spring rate I need on my Spire.

Got questions? Feel free to shoot us an email or give us a call!

[email protected]

ABOUT THE RIDER/WRITER

Current Bikes: Transition Spire

Bike Size: Medium

Favorite Trails: Oriental Express, Galbraith

About Me: Hailing from the sunny landscape of California, Tor headed north and landed here in the cloudy town of Bellingham, WA. His riding style is "PINNED" and he loves to scope out those seemingly impossible triples. He loves riding and also loves sharing his experiences with others. You can catch Tor in front of the camera or behind the keyboard, but best of luck catching him on the trail!

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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RS-DLX-ULT-C1

Deluxe Ultimate

€431 - €465

Ships after .

Currently out of stock until .

Light on ounces and heavy on capability, Deluxe Ultimate adds a touch of luxury to the latest uber-capable trail bikes. From the new DebonAir+ air spring that offers more volume tunability than ever to the damper’s independent Low Speed Compression and Rebound adjustments—every aspect was carefully designed to maximize tunability into a streamlined, minimalist package. The power is in your hands to dial in the perfect-for-you, perfect-for-the-trail-ahead settings. A custom-tailored ride, every time. 

Please check with frame manufacturer on Aftermarket rear shock compatibility.

• DebonAir+ air spring maximizes fine-tuning potential, allowing you to tune both the negative and positive air volume to perfectly match your bike, desired ride feel, and the trail ahead.
• Castled bottom out bumper reduces harsh bottom out, leaving extra room for the bold to go big.
• Independent Low Speed Compression and Rebound adjustments give riders the ability to define exactly how the rear shock responds to the trail.
• Wider range of Rebound adjustment to accommodate more rider types.
• Increased bushing overlap maximizes small bump performance and grip.
• Easy access lever to intuitively go between two compression positions—Open or Threshold (firm or lock).
• Fresh premium graphics package so your bike looks as dialed it feels.
• Top-of-the-line Maxima Plush Dynamic Suspension Lube reduces friction to help maintain traction.

Some variations of this product featured on this page are not available for purchase and are installed on bicycles as complete bikes only. See your dealer for details.

Metric Sizing

Metric sizing allows both suspension and frame manufacturers to simplify rear shock sizing and fitment in addition to increasing bushing overlap, which results in better traction and improved durability.  

Maxima Plush Dynamic Suspension Lube

Maxima Plush Dynamic Suspension Lube reduces friction, lasts longer, and enhances suspension performance ride after ride.

DebonAir+ is built to strike the perfect balance of what riders really want: butter-like small bump feel, increased support throughout the travel, and higher overall ride height for more confidence when things get steep.

Specifications

Installation. Service. Compatibility. Find all the documentation needed to set up, use, and maintain your components in the SRAM Service hub.

Find answers to frequently asked questions about compatibility, use, and more.

Visit the 2023 Rear Shock FAQ Page

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