FIRST LOOK: 2023 ROCKSHOX SUSPENSION

New forks and shocks

RockShox is bringing significant updates to its suspension line for 2023. Both its shocks and forks are receiving significant redesigns and introducing new technologies that should in theory offer improved performance.

NEW FORKS

The Pike, Lyrik, and ZEB all see major changes. Higher-end versions feature a new Charger 3 damper with truly independent high and low-speed compression adjustments so that one adjustment does not affect the other. Rebound damping circuits are made more silent too. One of the bigger changes to the damper is a new IFP (internal floating piston) that replaces the expanding bladder in the old version.

Little gold-packaged rubber pucks called Buttercups live at the end of the damper and air spring shafts and fit into the lower leg of the fork.

New rubber pucks in select models called Buttercups are located between the lower legs and the air and damper shafts dampen high-frequency vibrations by a claimed 20% with 4mm of movement. Pressure relief valves similar to what Fox has used eliminate unwanted air pressure build-up in the fork’s lower leg with the push of a button now too. Friction fighting Maxima Plush Dynamic Suspension Lube paired with optimized bushings and 53% longer lower bushings on Ultimate models should make them plusher than ever. Prices range from $790 for the Pike Select to $1,159 for the ZEB Ultimate.

NEW SHOCKS

In addition to the forks, there are also new Deluxe, Deluxe Coil, Super Deluxe, and Super Deluxe Coil shocks. Like the forks, Rockshox’s new RCT2 damper comes with truly independent high-speed and low-speed compression adjustments. The DebonAir+ airspring system has two different air cans – progressive or linear to augment each frame’s particular kinematics. It’s possible to fine-tune the airspring with positive and negative tokens now too. Also new to select shocks in the line is an optional hydraulic bottom-out control adjustment that utilizes a needle that blocks the flow of oil during the last 20% of the stroke.

Check out the RockShox website and the images below for more details on the new line.

Charger 3 has 15 clicks of low-speed compression, 5 clicks of high-speed compression, and 18 clicks of rebound adjustment.

Push-button pressure relief valves vents pressure that can build up between the upper and lower legs for consistent performance.

Bushing placement is optimized and Ultimate models see lower bushings that are 53% longer for even better performance.

Maxima Plush Dynamic Suspension Lube is used across the line. It is a proprietary blend created to keep the suspension feeling fresher for longer, enabling every component in the forks to work together seamlessly in all temperatures.

Like the forks, Rockshox’s new RCT2 damper comes with truly independent high speed and low-speed compression adjustments.

RockShox DebonAir+ Progressive and Linear air cans can be swapped depending on rider preference.

Also new to select shocks in the line is an optional hydraulic bottom-out control adjustment that utilizes a needle that blocks the flow of oil during the last 20% of the stroke.

In addition to the new suspension, RockShox has also updated its Trailhead app now includes metric rear shock setup and tuning information. Enter your serial number and get air pressure and coil spring rate recommendations, Rebound setting suggestions, tuning and service manuals, part numbers, and details about your specific rear shock