my month
HIGHS
The new DebonAir+ spring is a worthwhile upgrade for existing RockShox users – The Strive keeps on trucking, not letting mud and gunk slow it down
LOWS
The shock needs some attention so it can keep up with the fork
LUKE’S CANYON STRIVE CFR UNDERDOG £4,799
A new fork is highlighting the rear shock’s deficiencies for our technical writer
This month, I’ve been enjoying the ZEB fork I fitted. If you’re looking for more mid-stroke support and firmer progression from your RockShox fork, then their latest DebonAir+ spring is what you’ll want. Compared to the previous-generation ZEB, the 2023 model rides noticeably higher in its travel and offers ample support when charging into rough trails and more stability in turns. There’s also plenty of travel left in reserve to deal with harsh compressions.
The ZEB isn’t at the top end of the supportive spectrum, like EXT’s ERA, for example, but it has moved towards it. Fortunately, it’s still plush and supple through the initial part of its travel, too. DebonAir+ certainly feels like an improvement over the older spring, and the good news is that it can be retrofitted in all ZEB forks. I reckon it’s a worthy upgrade.
Improving the front suspension has highlighted how underwhelming
