2020 RockShox PIKE and Lyrik Ultimate – small updates for big improvements
Following the release of the new Charger 2 cartridge and the enlarged DebonAir air chamber last year, RockShox have updated their suspension forks once more. The central focus: improved damping and a reduction in friction for an even more sensitive and defined ride.
RockShox Charger 2.1 – adapted damping, better rebound and new oil
The RockShox Charger 2.1 cartridge isn’t completely new, but it has undergone some major changes compared to the Charger 2. RockShox have changed the compression setup: the high-speed compression is tuned a little softer overall for more comfort, while the low-speed compression has been made slightly firmer so that the fork remains higher in its travel. Both settings can be adjusted externally, of course – but the adjustment range has shifted.
The rebound piston has been optimised to improve oil flow and guarantee even more consistent performance. On top of that, RockShox have developed a new damping oil in cooperation with Maxima and they’ve developed new seals together with SKF for reduced stiction. By further reducing the stiction, the new forks should stick to the ground even better, and it should also result in less hand fatigue.
Ultimate, Select+ and Select – the new models in the RockShox Signature Series
In addition to the new Charger 2.1 damping unit, the new Maxima Plush Suspension Fluid and the new SKF seals, RockShox have also presented a new structure to their product range. The so-called Signature Series includes the PIKE, Lyrik, BoXXer and SID models. These four high-end forks now each have a new model structure. They come in three different levels: Ultimate, Select+ and Select. The Ultimates are the flagship models. If you are looking for the top-end model, this is it. The Select+ models are only available to manufacturers. The Select models are the entry-level Lyrik and PIKE models. You can optionally upgrade them to the Ultimate standard.
Ultimate – the new flagship range
The PIKE and Lyrik Ultimate both feature the new Charger 2.1 damping unit, Maxima Plus oil and new SKF low friction seals. You still have a choice between the RC2 or RCT3 damping variant. The PIKE Ultimate gets a stunning new silver or black colour scheme, whereas the Lyrik Ultimate continues with the familiar red or black options.
- Charger 2.1 RC2 or RCT3 damping
- new low friction SKF seals
- new Maxima Plush damping oil
- silver (PIKE) or red (Lyrik)
- new graphics
- DebonAir air chamber
- price: € 1,030 (PIKE) | € 1,110 (Lyrik)
Select+ – more variety for manufacturers
Coming in beneath the Ultimate is RockShox’s Select+ range. However, they are only available to manufacturers, leaving aftermarket customers with a choice between the Ultimate or the Select. The Select+ range also features the new Charger 2.1 damping, but without external high-speed compression adjustment. The Select+ forks are only available in black.
- Charger 2.1 RC damping
- new low friction SKF seals
- new Maxima Plush damping oil
- new graphics
- DebonAir air chamber
- price: available only to manufacturers
Select – the entry-level PIKE and Lyrik
The Select range features the DebonAir air chamber presented last year and a closed Charger damping unit – but not the new Charger 2.1. They come with the new Maxima Plush oil, but you’ll have to do without the new SKF seals.
- Charger RC damping
- new Maxima Plush damping oil
- new graphics
- DebonAir air chamber
- price: € 775 PIKE or Lyrik
Our opinion on the new RockShox Signature Series
The improvements make perfect sense on paper. We were already convinced of the performance of the old Lyrik and PIKE, but we’re obviously happy to welcome any little improvement. And the fact that all the updates are backwards compatible is a big plus. We’ll have to wait and see how much better the new Lyrik Ultimate performs compared to the predecessor – fortunately, there’s one already on its way to us.
More information at sram.com
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