RockShox

Pike RCT3 Solo Air 140 Boost (51mm Offset) Fork - 29+ - 2018

For 2018, the RockShox Pike RCT3 DebonAir 140 Boost (51mm Offset) 29+ Fork certainly didn't need a ground-up redesign, considering the previous version drew widespread acclaim with its stiff 35-millimeter stanchions and ability to ride high in the travel where it's most sensitive to bumps and trail imperfections. However, the engineers at RockShox weren't content resting on their previous laurels, choosing to overhaul the entire Pike series of forks for 2018 with the addition of a DebonAir spring and Charger 2 damper. These spring and damper changes make the already excellent Pike more sensitive to small bumps, as well as increasing its mid-stroke support and broadening the range of low-speed compression tuning. Moreover, the engineers at RockShox chose to make this fork in Boost spacing only, meaning it clears massive 29 x 3-inch tires.

Shaving a bit of weight from the previous Pike, RockShox slimmed down the lowers of the newest Pike RCT3, saving about 20 grams in the process (estimate based on 27.5-inch version for 2018). Since it retains the 35-millimeter stanchions of the previous version, it doesn't sacrifice one ounce of stiffness or precise handling you've come to love from Pike forks. Another update, the brake mounts only accommodate rotors in the range of 180 to 200 millimeters, seeing modern trail and enduro bikes are increasing their stopping power to handle aggressive riding styles.

The new Charger 2 damper represents the logical progression of the original Charger damper unit, retaining the same 3-position adjustment, but offering a broader range of low-speed compression tuning in the Open mode. Another update to the original Charger damper, the Pedal mode is re-configured for a better pedaling platform on long climbs and smooth terrain where reducing front-end motion is warranted. One more overhaul, the Firm lock-out setting is now controllable with the separate purchase of RockShox's OneLoc remote. This bar-mounted remote is a nice addition for enduro racers and trail riders seeking a convenient lock-out without having to reach down and flick the Pike' 3-position compression knob.

Another huge improvement for 2018 is the addition of RockShox's DebonAir spring, which is borrowed from their Deluxe and SuperDeluxe rear shocks. This technology increases the negative air spring volume in the fork, thereby increasing its suppleness and sensitivity at the top stroke. This equates to a plusher ride with greater traction over small bumps, such as rocks and roots. Best of all, the DebonAir spring doesn't sacrifice support deeper in its travel, meaning you'll be able to push the newest Pike RCT3 to the absolute limit on rowdy sections of trail and high-speed descents.

Please note, this particular version of the Pike RCT3 has a 51-millimeter offset/rake, which reduces the "dead space" between the steering axis and hub. This offset negates the sluggish low-speed handling inherent to modern 29ers with slack geometries, giving your big-wheeled machine a nimble feel across tight switchbacks and technical trail sections.