New look, new purpose: the RockShox Lyrik has long been RockShox’s go-to enduro fork. However, since the launch of the ZEB, it has gradually been repositioned as a trail fork. In our comparison test, we pushed the 160 mm RockShox Lyrik Ultimate and the new Charger 3.1 damper to their limits on the trails.
Fender mount: Yes | PM 180 | € 1,199 | 2,027 g | Manufacturer’s Website
The RockShox Lyrik is one of the most popular suspension forks currently available on the market, and in 2022, it underwent a comprehensive update: a new casting, revised air spring, and a new damper cartridge. This year, RockShox refined the fork even further with the introduction of the Charger 3.1 damper, which improves damping performance. The fork features externally adjustable high- and low-speed compression, as well as low-speed rebound. There are five clicks on the high-speed circuit and 15 for low-speed, with each click resulting in a noticeable change, making fine-tuning much easier when experimenting.
The adjustment clicks are clearly defined and easy to feel, with well-marked dials that can be operated with gloves too. A rabbit and tortoise symbol on the rebound adjuster clearly indicates the direction to turn. The compression adjustment, however, isn’t quite as intuitive, using plus and minus symbols where plus means more damping (firmer) and minus means less damping (softer).
Learn more about this comparison test: The best MTB fork – 8 forks in comparison
On the left lower leg, you’ll find a setup chart with recommendations for your initial settings. These are a great starting point, and for more detailed tuning, you can use the RockShox TrailHead app or website, which both offer helpful setup tips. You’ll also find advice on fork maintenance, along with recommended service intervals.
Staying true to its roots, the RockShox Lyrik Ultimate still relies on 35 mm stanchions and comes in travel options between 140 to 160 mm, which can also be changed afterwards simply by swapping the air spring piston. Weighing in at 2,027 g (160 mm), it sits right in the middle of the trail fork test field. At € 1,199, it’s also the most affordable fork in our trail fork test field.
With its standard 180 mm brake mount, the Lyrik can easily handle rotors up to 220 mm, which can be useful for some trail riders depending on their brakes. Alongside the Ultimate flagship model, there are two more variants: the Select and Ultimate Flight Attendant. The Base and Select+ versions are only available to bike manufacturers as OEM components. All models come in black, while the Ultimate and Ultimate Flight Attendant are also available in dark green.
The Ultimate models feature ButterCups– small rubber pucks on both the damper and air spring shafts, which are designed to absorb fine vibrations. The fork comes standard with the Q-Maxle thru-axle, which is available both as a quick-release and Allen key variant. There’s also a mounting bracket for a mudguard, eliminating the need for zip ties. However, the Lyrik mudguard is only available in a short version.
The RockShox Lyrik Ultimate mtb fork on the trail
On the trail, the RockShox Lyrik Ultimate proves to be a reliable partner. The fork is more responsive than the Formula, delivering excellent traction,regardless of whether you’re tackling wet, slippery roots or wide, open corners. However, it doesn’t quite match the sensitivity and responsiveness of the FOX 36 GRIP X, which still has the edge in terms of small bump compliance.
In the mid stroke, the Lyrik feels firmer than the FOX and offers noticeable feedback from the trail, similar to the Formula. This makes it a great choice for riders with an active style: if you like to pump through rollers and pop off natural kickers with a bunny hop, this fork rewards your efforts. In rocky sections that demand active weight shifts, the Lyrik provides a lively ride – not overly stiff, but with plenty of support, fostering a dynamic connection to the trail.
However, the fork’s 35 mm stanchions and casting have some limitations: a noticeable torsional flex can cause a twisting sensation in the handlebars when bombing through particularly rough sections. This becomes especially apparent in rock gardens, where the Lyrik can feel a bit vague, affecting precision and confidence.
That said, the RockShox Lyrik Ultimate is incredibly well-balanced overall. It strikes an excellent balance between traction and support, running quietly while delivering a direct, lively ride feel. The damping is smooth, with no rattling, and the feedback from the trail is precise. However, when pushing hard through rough terrain and fast descents with nasty rock gardens androot carpets, the FOX 36 GRIP X and Formula prove superior in terms of stability and composure.
Conclusions about the RockShox Lyrik Ultimate mtb fork
The RockShox Lyrik Ultimate lives up to its reputation, remaining an incredibly solid fork, which is easy to set up witha well-thought-out range of adjustments. On the trail, the Lyrik delivers strong, defined support, making it especially appealing to active riders. However, some may find it feels a bit firm. Heavier or more aggressive riders might notice significant flex in the chassis. Despite this, the Lyrik offers a balanced ride that performs well across all types of trails.
Tops
- Balanced ride characteristics
- Strong support
- Well-designed adjustment range
Flops
- Noticeable chassis flex
- Slightly firm ride feel
You can find out more about the RockShox Lyrik at SRAM.
All forks on test:
DVO Onyx D1 38 SL | EXT ERA V2.1 | Formula Selva S | FOX 38 GRIP X2 | FOX 36 GRIP X | Öhlins RXF38 | RockShox ZEB Ultimate | RockShox Lyrik Ultimate |
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Words: Simon Kohler Photos: Peter Walker
