ROCKSHOX’S PIKE IS as much trail fork as most riders will ever need, but there was a definite gap in their line-up for a gonzo fork to take on the Fox 36 for single-crown downhill domination honours. Rather than upsizing the outer diameter of the Pike’s 35mm stanchions for the Lyrik, RockShox have made them thicker throughout their tapering walls. They’ve also increased the depth and stiffness of the crown, and made the arch taller.The result is the stiffest fork in our static tests, even in 180mm format.
The Lyrik feels rock solid on the trail too, whether you’re ripping tyre knobs off in a turn, smacking into big blocks or clamping a 200mm brake rotor as hard as possible.An extended negative air spring similar to that found in RockShox’s DebonAir shocks improves traction and sensitivity, while SKF seals on the fork legs and a Pike style Charger Damper reduce stiction further for a consistently plush and planted front wheel.The air spring, Rapid Recovery rebound and Charger Damper combine for naturally excellent mid-stroke control.
While high- and low-speed compression are both widely adjustable, the Lyrik’s real-world strength compared to other premium performers is that it feels outstanding without you needing a degree in dial-twiddling knowhow. It’s compatible with the Torque Cap ends of the latest SRAM wheels and there are 110mm Boost axle versions too.
WEIGHT: 2,070g
TRAVEL: 160, 170, 180mm (tested)
Price 1238$
