Since its launch four years ago, the RockShox ZEB Ultimate has been a mainstay in RockShox’s lineup, and has become the manufacturer’s go-to fork for enduro. Now, it’s received another update, including a reworked damper cartridge. Does the latest iteration of the ZEB deliver on its promise?
Fendermount: Yes | PM 200 | € 1,249 | 2,358 g | Manufacturer’s Website
The RockShox ZEB is one of the most popular and widely used forks for enduro and e-mountain bikes, and it saw further refinements in 2023. The latest version of the ZEB is available in a striking Electric Red color and retains its robust 38 mm stanchions, now paired with the updated Charger 3.1 damper. The latter allows precise tuning with five clicks for high-speed compression and 15 clicks for low-speed compression, with each click resulting in a noticeable change – making it easier to fine-tune and experimenting with setups.
The ZEB’s adjustment dials are precisely marked and easy to operate even with gloves. Rebound settings are indicated by symbols of a jackalope (a mythical American creature that is a mix between a jackrabbit and an antelope) for faster settings and a turtle for slower ones. Compression settings are labeled with “+” for firmer damping and “–” for softer damping.
Learn more about this comparison test: The best MTB fork – 8 forks in comparison
A setup chart with recommended air pressures on the left lower leg provides an ideal starting point for the initial setup. For further fine-tuning, riders can consult the RockShox TrailHead app or the website, both of which offer additional setup tips and include detailed maintenance information and service intervals.
The RockShox ZEB Ultimate is available with up to 190 mm of travel, which can be adjusted later on by swapping the air spring shaft. The tested 170 mm version weighs in at 2,358 grams, placing it mid-range among enduro forks. Retailing at €1,249, the ZEB offers excellent value for demanding riders.
With a 200 mm brake mount, the fork is compatible with 200 mm and 220 mm rotors, which makes it the ideal choice for enduro and e-mountain bikes. Alongside the Ultimate model, RockShox offers the Ultimate Flight Attendant and Select aftermarket variants, while the Select+ and Base versions are reserved for OEM clients.
The Ultimate models come equipped with ButterCups – small elastomers that absorb fine vibrations to improve ride comfort. The fork also features the Q-Maxle thru-axle, which comes with either a quick release and Allen fitting. A dedicated mounting point is provided for the mudguard, allowing it to be securely fastened without zip ties; however, the ZEB mudguard is only available in a short version.
The RockShox ZEB Ultimate on the trail
The RockShox ZEB Ultimate feels rather firm from the get go –it doesn’t match the sensitivity of forks like the DVO Onyx D1 38 SL and FOX 38 Factory GRIP X2. This firmness keeps the ZEB high in its travel, which benefits riders looking for a stable platform to actively push through the trail. The mid-stroke is also firm, preventing the fork from sinking deep into the travel and keeping it positioned exactly where it’s needed.
The stiff chassis of the ZEB Ultimate is both a blessing and a curse. Combined with the firm damping, it offers impressive precision, comparable to the EXT ERA V2.1. Even on rough, challenging trails, the fork holds its line and stays extremely accurate, which makes it the ideal choice for riders who know where they’re headed and need their front wheel to stay firmly planted. These characteristics reward an active riding style, where the rider can read the trail, using every pump and dip to maintain momentum.
However, this level of performance comes at a cost: the ZEB’s firm setup can lead to arm pump more quickly, especially on long, rugged descents, meaning that you may tire more easily, particularly if you lack the strength and endurance to actively control the bike. Yet, for experienced riders who know precisely where to place their tires and have the stamina to push the bike actively, the ZEB is an excellent choice.
Conclusions about the RockShox ZEB
Overall, the RockShox ZEB Ultimate is designed for experienced riders seeking a firm, precise, and stiff fork that allows you to tackle trails with full control and maximum commitment. If you enjoy holding your line, pumping through rollers, and squeezing every ounce of performance from your bike, the ZEB is a reliable partner – though it requires greater physical effort.
Tops
- Firm and precise ride feel
- Ideal for active, experienced riders
- Useful adjustment range
Flops
- Less sensitive response
- Physically demanding to ride
You can find out more about the RockShox ZEB 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
