RockShox is undertaking a major overhaul of its enduro suspensions for 2027.

Here is the key information to bear in mind about the new RockShox ZEB fork and the RockShox Vivid Air shock absorber.

The new RockShox ZEB 2027

The ZEB changes almost everything except its axle. The goal is to offer more comfort ("sofa effect") without sacrificing support.

• Chassis & AirAnnex: The lower part of the lowers features a bulge on the spring side called the AirAnnex. It increases the air volume in the legs to reduce the natural progressivity of the trapped air, making the fork more linear and predictable.
• Charger 3.2 cartridge: An evolution of the Charger 3, reworked to be completely silent and offer truly independent compression adjustments (HSC/LSC). The dials are now numbered to simplify set-up.
• LinearXL spring: A new pneumatic spring system that aims to replicate the linearity of a coil spring.
• ABO (Adjustable Bottom Out): A hydraulic end-stroke adjustment that firms up the last 20% of travel to prevent harsh bottom-outs.
• New crown: Wider and cut-out to increase stiffness without adding weight. The decompression valves (Pressure Relief Valves) are now positioned on the top of the crown.

 

2. The new Vivid Air 2027 shock absorber

The shock absorber follows the same philosophy: extreme sensitivity on small hits and a high absorption capacity.

• IFP pressure reduction (-40%): Thanks to a new Base Valve, RockShox has reduced the internal operating pressure by 40%. The result: far less friction and a rear wheel that "sticks" to the ground.
• LinearXL Air Can: The air volume is increased for a flatter suspension curve. Interestingly, the standard spacers are replaced by a mobile O-ring inside to make volume adjustment easier.
• Simplified adjustments: As on the ZEB, the compression dials are numbered. The rebound adjustment is also more accessible.
• ABO (Adjustable Bottom Out): Also featured on the Vivid Air with a 5-position dial to manage end-stroke.

 

In summary: what changes on the trail

• Sensitivity: Both components are much more "supple" at the start of the stroke to filter out vibrations.
• Consistency: RockShox uses new Maxima oil and SG920 grease to ensure the behaviour remains identical, whether in the first minute of a descent or after 20 minutes in the "bike park".
• Maintenance: While the full service intervals remain unchanged, the air-side servicing of the Vivid is extended from 50h to 100h.

Tip: These suspensions are designed to work together. The ZEB's Charger 3.2 cartridge has been specifically "tuned" to match the hydraulic behaviour of the Vivid Air so that the front and rear of the bike respond in a perfectly balanced way.

Frequently asked questions 

What are the main new features of the ZEB 2027?

The major new feature is the AirAnnex system (the bulge at the bottom of the lowers) which increases the internal air volume for greater linearity. It also incorporates the Charger 3.2 cartridge for finer, quieter adjustment, as well as an adjustable hydraulic bottom-out (ABO).

What is the "AirAnnex" system on the fork?

This is an additional air chamber located in the fork legs. Traditionally, the air trapped in the lowers stiffens the fork at the end of travel. The AirAnnex increases this volume to reduce this unwanted pressure, making the fork much more supple and "smooth" throughout its travel.

What is the ABO (Adjustable Bottom Out) setting for?

It is a dial that allows hydraulic management of the end-stroke.

• If you frequently bottom out on big jumps, close the ABO.
• If you never use your full travel, open it. This allows you to keep a supple air spring for comfort without risking "bottoming out" on big impacts.

Why has RockShox reduced the IFP pressure on the Vivid Air?

By reducing the internal pressure by 40%, RockShox drastically reduces friction at the seals. The shock activates much more easily on small hits (roots, gravel), offering a rear wheel that literally "sticks" to the ground.

Can I upgrade my current ZEB (2023-2025) to the 2027 version?

The Charger 3.2 cartridge is backwards compatible with older ZEB chassis. However, the AirAnnex system and the new LinearXL spring are tied to the new 2027 chassis and cannot be fitted to older versions.

Are the settings complicated on these models?

On the contrary, RockShox has simplified the interface. The high and low-speed compression dials are now numbered. This makes it easy to find your settings at a glance or to follow the recommendations of the RockShox TrailHead app more easily.

What is the difference between the LinearXL spring and a standard spring?

The LinearXL has a much larger negative chamber. This makes the beginning of the stroke extremely supple (easy to activate) and delivers a suspension curve very close to that of a coil spring, while remaining lighter and adjustable via a high-pressure pump.

Is servicing more frequent on these new suspensions?

Good news: RockShox has optimised the sealing. The air-side service interval for the Vivid Air has been extended from 50h to 100h of use. For the ZEB, intervals remain standard, but the use of the new Maxima lubricants and SG920 grease ensures longer-lasting consistent performance between services.