Sharing the name of their first suspension fork introduced 25 years ago, RockShox released a brand new RS-1 model. With inverted legs and a full carbon chassis, this RS-1 is a different beast for sure!
This shock was just announced today and we have not yet ridden the new RS-1, but from the looks of specs and images, it will push fork design forward on several levels.
Two important notes: it is designed specifically for 29ers, although a 27.5-inch version may be in the works and; this bad boy rings in at a hefty $1,865.
The RS-1 is more than just a new fork –- it is a totally integrated front-end system. Dubbed “Predictive Steering” the design is a harmonious relationship of fork and wheel. The fork chassis, a stiff, oversized carbon upper, paired with aluminum stanchions is nothing without its massive (and proprietary) 27mm tubular axel to tie them together. A 15mm “Maxel Ultimate” slides inside the 27mm “Torque Tube” to attach to the fork to tie the front end together as a structural member.
Why inverted? Having the damper above the legs (stanchions) allows them to be bathed constantly in oil. Better lubrication equals better small bump sensitivity equals more speed! It also eliminates the need for a “crown” above the stanchions and allows for a lighter one-piece carbon steerer tube/upper legs configuration.
