RockShox’s XC Flight Attendant Has Landed

It's been two years since RockShox debuted Flight Attendant, an electronic suspension system that gathers rider and trail data, runs it through an algorithm, and then makes an informed decision on the best suspension setting for a given moment. And it does this constantly throughout a ride. Initially (and surprisingly) launched with RockShox's trail and enduro-focused products, it has finally made it to the XC world, where the automated 3-position compression damping system (Lock, Pedal, Open) offers a direct improvement over traditional user-actuated lockouts. It also can operate in a split setting, allowing the fork and shock to exist in different compression positions—something you don't find with current lockout systems. 

New with this generation of Flight Attendant is the Adaptive Ride Dynamics feature, which allows the algorithm to learn how you ride over multiple rides to create effort zones and then adjust the suspension to match your effort. So, if you stand in the saddle and lay down some watts, Flight Attendant will recognize that and trend towards the Lock position. 

We spent a few days aboard XC Flight Attendant while checking out Specialized's new Epic 8. It's only available on the S-Works model (which retails for $14,500 USD), and you can learn all about our impressions in our First Ride Review. But to learn all about the fancy new tech, scroll below for the press release and a lengthy FAQ that should answer any questions. 

---

The hordes of Swiss fans saw a display of dominance: Nino Schurter, wearing the World Champion’s rainbow jersey, riding solo, breaking the record for all-time World Cup wins with his 34th victory. They saw the strength, the technical precision, the raw emotion. That visual was unforgettable.

Flight Attendant saw something else. The automatic electronic suspension system on Nino’s bike saw another dimension of the race. On that day, Flight Attendant automatically controlled Nino’s suspension and made 1,325 suspension changes in just under 90 minutes of World Cup winning racing.

The effort, technique, and passion of cross-country racing is the same as it was when Nino won his first World Cup. The latest Flight Attendant technology now empowers riders like him to push further, ride faster, and win more races.

BEYOND YOUR LIMITS.

During a testing session with our internal RockShox test team, we found that Flight Attendant rider’s average speed was 1.8% faster when compared to those same riders using a manual system. 1.8% reads like a small gain but it suggests that in a 90-minute XC World Cup race, a rider on Flight Attendant could have a 96-second advantage.

MAKE FAST YOUR PRIORITY

Free your mind. Focus on fast. Flight Attendant simplifies decision making in the heat of the moment by instantaneously changing suspension states to maximize performance. This enhances your bike’s efficiency in fractions of a second. On climbs, descents, and everything in between, Flight Attendant maximizes your suspension’s capability and minimizes your decision fatigue.

It all starts with the AXS ecosystem that gathers mind-boggling amounts of data in every split-second. Flight Attendant analyzes this information and gives you the perfect suspension setting, exactly when you need it.

TOTAL SYSTEM CONNECTIVITY

By listening and learning from more data than ever before, Flight Attendant suspension delivers an unmatched experience for the rider.

Flight Attendant flies with AXS Wireless Technology. SRAM AXS is the only system offering a clean, cable-free design. This wireless communication protocol enables Flight Attendant’s system of components to instantaneously receive data to optimize suspension settings.

FUELED BY SCIENCE. FEELS LIKE MAGIC.

Flight Attendant’s updated algorithm now uses new data sources that give the system a broader, more complete picture to personalize your ride experience. With more components and more data, Flight Attendant can make better decisions. When it makes better decisions, the bike is more efficient, and you ride faster. The new algorithm gathers your data as you ride, learns from it, and works with increasing precision and accuracy to get the most out of your bike’s suspension. Flight Attendant remains the only automatic suspension system that paints a picture of the complete riding experience and responds in real-time.

A NATURAL FEEL: 3 POSITION DAMPING

RockShox’s most advanced damping systems are the only way to handle everything from World Cup tracks to local laps. Flight Attendant components feature three-position Compression damping that automatically switches from an efficient Lock position to a supportive Pedal position for optimal traction to an Open position for big hits and rocky, rooty descents. Flight Attendant knows exactly what’s best for the trail. Tuned for the smoothest transitions between suspension positions, three-position damping offers the most natural suspension feel for the rider. When Flight Attendant seamlessly swaps between Open, Pedal, and Lock positions, you’d think it was reading your mind.

COMPLETELY PERSONALIZED, FOR YOU

Flight Attendant might know you better than you know yourself. No other suspension system has this level of personalization to match your riding preferences, your terrain, your style, and your physical capabilities. 

Take full control of Flight Attendant’s personalization options. Better still, Flight Attendant now tirelessly works on every ride to optimize and personalize its algorithm to suit your needs.

ADAPTIVE RIDE DYNAMICS

Flight Attendant has a new tool that enables the algorithm to learn how you ride to continuously personalize your suspension: Adaptive Ride Dynamics. This smart functionality compiles data from your previous rides to precisely calculate your personalized Effort Zones. The algorithm continually collects fresh data and automatically updates as you ride. As you get stronger, Adaptive Ride Dynamics adapts to meet you where you are.

 

THE APP AT THE CENTER OF IT ALL

Use the SRAM AXS app to adjust settings for your entire AXS system, Flight Attendant included.

• Build a bike profile
• Customize your controls
• Adjust Mode Settings
• View and edit Effort Zones for Adaptive Ride Dynamics
• Check battery charge status
• Update firmware as needed

GET RIGHT TO THE RIDE

Set up is simple. Pair your AXS components, set up your front and rear suspension, calibrate your Flight Attendant system, and you’re ready to ride. Start personalizing your Flight Attendant ride experience from there.

FLIGHT ATTENDANT CHARGER RACE DAY 2 DAMPER

The 3-position Charger Race Day 2 damper—every detail perfected, every extra ounce shaved away. The latest Flight Attendant technology learns from your ride data and instantaneously switches between Open, Pedal, and Lock positions for pure efficiency and going fast. It’s an electronic, automatic suspension system that’s so intuitive, you’ll only notice the faster lap times.

XC Flight Attendant Products

To learn more, please visit sram.com

---

FAQ - ADAPTIVE RIDE DYNAMICS

What is the difference between Flight Attendant’s Bias Adjust and Adaptive Ride Dynamics?

Bias adjustment is set by the rider to inform the system on whether to trend toward Open, Lock, or a balance of the two positions, and Adaptive Ride Dynamics personalizes the Bias setting based on the rider’s current effort.

How do Flight Attendant’s Bias Adjust and Adaptive Ride Dynamics work together?

Think of Bias as the first step to personalization: you can set the Bias to trend toward Open, Lock, or a balance of the two positions. From there, Adaptive Ride Dynamics gathers rider effort data, and uses that to meet the rider where they are on that ride. For example, if you’re riding in the Low Effort Zone, you’re probably soft pedaling along and the system will trend toward the Open position. If you’re putting out more effort and you’re in either the High or Sprint Effort Zones, you’re going to likely prefer that it is firmer, and it’ll trend more toward the Lock position. All of it is based on the initial Bias setting, which will determine whether the system will trend in one way or the other.

How are my Flight Attendant Effort Zones determined?

Flight Attendant learns more about you the more you ride and will be more precise to your riding style after every ride. The system takes data from the past several rides, so as you get stronger, Adaptive Ride Dynamics adapts to meet you where you are, all season long.

Can I set my Flight Attendant Effort Zones manually?

Yes. We recommend letting the system adapt to your current capabilities automatically for the best experience, but you can enter your own data into the SRAM AXS app if you have precise numbers from your training record.

If someone rides my Flight Attendant-equipped bike, will my Effort Zones adapt to them?

Flight Attendant takes data from the past several rides, so it will take in data from your friend. If the other rider drastically differs from you in output, it could affect your ride experience. There are two ways to prevent this:

1. Turn Adaptive Ride Dynamics off in the SRAM AXS app when someone else is riding your bike.

2. Take a screenshot of your Effort Zones, and manually enter them into the SRAM AXS app when you get your bike back.

3. Reset your Effort Zones in the SRAM AXS app after your friend rides the bike to allow the system to learn your Effort Zones again.

Will Flight Attendant change the suspension settings more frequently with Adaptive Ride Dynamics?

Yes, in most cases. With Adaptive Ride Dynamics, Flight Attendant is more responsive to the rider based on their effort level, especially with the addition of Sprint Zone.

What components are needed for Adaptive Ride Dynamics?

Adaptive Ride Dynamics uses data gathered from AXS components. An AXS-enabled power meter is required for Adaptive Ride Dynamics. However, the more AXS-enabled parts you have in the system, the more accurate Adaptive Ride Dynamics will be.

Does Adaptive Ride Dynamics work on E-MTBs?

No. Currently, Adaptive Ride Dynamics is designed around rider effort on non-E-MTB bikes, which differs from rider effort seen on E-MTBs.

Does Flight Attendant use Artificial Intelligence?

Flight Attendant does not use Artificial Intelligence but a finely tuned algorithm to make decisions based on current trail conditions and rider preferences.

What is the benefit to using a power meter with RockShox Flight Attendant?

Adaptive Ride Dynamics cannot work without an AXS- enabled power meter. With a compatible bike computer, the power meter also provides the opportunity to measure your effort during a ride and record it for review later. Combine this with SRAM AXS Web and you can review your effort, time spent in each gear, and more in Ride Reports. Understanding your efforts can inform your training decisions, gear selection, and how to get the most out of your energy during your priority events each season.

How significant is the pedaling sensor in terms of data input?

The Pedal Sensor or power meter is a crucial part of the Flight Attendant system, as it gathers data from the rider to make smarter and more predictive, personalized decisions. Note: Adaptive Ride Dynamics requires a power meter; the Flight Attendant Pedal Sensor does will not provide the data needed for Adaptive Ride Dynamics.

Can I still get a personalized ride experience without a power meter?

You can select your Bias Adjustment based on your ride preferences, but for the most personalized ride experience, Adaptive Ride Dynamics relies on the system having a power meter paired into it.

Will Flight Attendant integrate with any bike computers to display suspension data?

Currently, there are no bike computers that collect or show suspension data, including suspension state.

UPGRADE KITS

Can I buy Flight Attendant aftermarket?

Yes, you can select each component individually for your Flight Attendant kit. At a minimum, the system requires a Flight Attendant-equipped fork, rear shock, and pedaling sensor to function. There is no fork-only Flight Attendant option at this time.

You will start with a frame-specific rear shock, which is tuned to match your frame’s kinematics, then select your fork, pedaling sensor (Flight Attendant Pedal Sensor or a power meter), controllers, etc.

RockShox will communicate which frame manufacturers we have confirmed Flight Attendant fitment and compatibility with. Riders who choose to use Flight Attendant products on OE bike models not confirmed by RockShox are at risk of impacting any warranties and are liable if damages due to fitment occur.

What forks are included in the RockShox Flight Attendant upgrade kits?

Currently, Flight Attendant forks offered are SID Ultimate, SID SL Ultimate, Pike Ultimate, Lyrik Ultimate, and ZEB Ultimate.

Can you combine the new SIDLuxe Ultimate Flight Attendant with another Flight Attendant fork, like the Pike Ultimate Flight Attendant?

Yes, if your frame supports a longer-travel fork. Several 120mm frames on the market support 130mm forks for more trail-focused builds. All Flight Attendant components are designed to work with one another.

Can I upgrade my current RockShox fork to Flight Attendant?

Only existing 2024 SID or SID SL (D1) forks can be upgraded to include the new Flight Attendant Control Module and Flight Attendant Charger Race Day 2 damper.

Can I upgrade my existing RockShox 2024 SID or SID SL (D1) with a new Flight Attendant damper?

Yes! You can upgrade your 2024 SID or SID SL (D1) fork with a Flight Attendant Control Module and damper. You will need to purchase the SID or SID SL Control Module (depending on your fork) and a new, Flight Attendant-specific Charger Race Day 2 damper separately. *Make sure to purchase the Control Module intended for your fork as the module is programmed specifically for each damper.* For more information, refer to the Spare Parts Catalog.

Can I add the Flight Attendant Motor Module to my current SIDLuxe A1 or A2?

No. SIDLuxe Ultimate Flight Attendant has a special mounting option for the Motor Module that existing SIDLuxe rear shocks don’t have.

Why isn’t Flight Attendant available for more bikes?

We work with our OE partners for testing and fitment, specifically around the rear shock. We’ll add more options as more Flight Attendant bicycles come to market.

FUNCTIONALITY

How does Flight Attendant make suspension state decisions?

Flight Attendant’s updated algorithm now uses new data sources that give the system a broader, more complete picture to personalize your ride experience. With more components and more data, Flight Attendant can make better decisions. When it makes better decisions, the bike is more efficient, and you ride faster. The new algorithm gathers your data as you ride, learns from it, and works with increasing precision and accuracy to get the most out of your bike’s suspension.

How fast do the sensors open the damping? And how long does it take to lock the damper out?

With the combination of sensors and the Flight Attendant algorithm, we feel there is much more to Flight Attendant than speed alone. However, if we are looking at raw data, the system analyzes terrain and rider inputs and makes suspension-position decisions every 5 milliseconds. For a frame of reference, the average time for a blink is between 300 and 400 milliseconds; so, in the time it takes to blink, Flight Attendant has made about 80 suspension state decisions based on input from the rider and terrain.

Does Flight Attendant learn from my riding style and adjust its behavior?

Yes! Flight Attendant’s updated, smarter-than-ever algorithm now includes new data sources that give the system a broader, more complete picture to personalize the ride experience.

What’s the difference between Flight Attendant and other electronically-controlled suspension?

• Flight Attendant learns how you ride, and because of that, it might know you better than you know yourself. No other suspension system has this level of personalization to match your riding preferences, your terrain, your style, and your physical capabilities.

• Flight Attendant is predictive; it adjusts damping based on input from the rider and the terrain.

• Wireless integration of Flight Attendant components means a cleaner, quieter bike and ride experience.

• Flight Attendant offers three compression positions: Open, Pedal, and Lock.

• Firmware updates over the course of time will allow your Flight Attendant system to learn, receive new features, and become more valuable over time.

• Being a part of the AXS Ecosystem means you can control, personalize, and monitor all your AXS components together.

Does Flight Attendant optimize Rebound damping on trail?

Flight Attendant does not make any adjustments to the Rebound damping; however, Rebound can be manually adjusted using the Rebound knob on the bottom of the fork’s lower leg or your rear shock. From turtle to jackalope, RockShox’s wide Rebound adjustment range has a consistent feel, click-by-click, to make sure you can dial in your suspension.

Are Flight Attendant parts waterproof?

All AXS components are completely waterproof to the IPX7 international standard. Initially developed for construction vehicles and food sanitization, the IPX7 standard validates systems that require regular cleaning. For a mountain biker, it means no hesitation to head out when the weather looks less than ideal.

How does Bias Adjustment compare/relate to Low Speed Compression (LSC)? Does Bias change LSC?

(LSC adjustment not avilable on SID Ultimate Flight Attendant, SID SL Ultimate Flight Attendant, or SIDLuxe Ultimate Flight Attendant) Low Speed Compression (LSC) settings function independently of Flight Attendant Modes. This means that the LSC settings will be maintained while in the Open position even if the rider switches between the Auto, Manual, and Override Modes. Bias Adjust affects the system as a whole and how often it switches between Open, Pedal, and Lock positions when in Auto Mode.

Can I adjust Low Speed Compression (LSC) on my SID Ultimate Flight Attendant, SID SL Ultimate Flight Attendant, or SIDLuxe Ultimate Flight Attendant?

No, Low Speed Compression is only adjustable on Flight Attendant Trail/All Mtn/Enduro forks. Charger Race Day 2 is designed to be the perfect companion for race day—all you need to do is set your air pressure and Rebound, then let Flight Attendant control your suspension position for you.

Can I tune the air spring in the Flight Attendant fork or rear shock?

Yes! For Bottomless Token installation and removal, check out the service manual for your fork or rear shock on https://www.sram.com/en/service.

Can I use Flight Attendant without a handlebar mounted controller?

Yes! In Auto Mode, no additional controller is needed. While in Manual Mode, you can either use the Control Module “+” or “–“ buttons, or the left hand, 2-position AXS controller to cycle through suspension positions.

Can I use Flight Attendant with a non-SRAM drivetrain equipped mountain bike?

Pairing an AXS drivetrain to the Flight Attendant system improves ride performance, but Flight Attendant components can be used with another drivetrain system. However, a RockShox Flight Attendant Pedal Sensor or SRAM power meter must be paired into the system.

What happens if a battery loses power / dies?

Before a SRAM AXS battery (in the fork and rear shock) loses power, Flight Attendant’s Safe Mode automatically places the suspension system into the Open position so you can get home safe to recharge. If the power meter battery dies, the system will switch to Search Mode by shifting into the open position and then start sweeping the yellow LEDs back and forth. The user can press and hold the mode button to exit Search Mode and go into Manual Mode for the duration of the ride. If the Pedal Sensor battery dies while the fork and rear shock SRAM AXS batteries still maintain power, the rider can use Manual Mode to change the suspension position of the fork and rear shock. If the rider stays in Auto Mode, the system will stay in the Open position until the pedal sensor battery is replaced.

Should I always remove the batteries and replace with covers when transporting my bike?

Extended transportation can drain the batteries, so we recommend that you remove the SRAM AXS batteries and replace them with the red battery blocks to keep the battery contacts clean. This will also remind you to install your batteries before you ride.

Comparing the same bike with or without Flight Attendant, how much weight does the system add?

Including the fork, rear shock, pedal sensor/power meter, both SRAM AXS batteries and the difference in weight between a 1- and 2- button left controller, the system adds around 220g for XC components and 308g for Trail/All Mtn/Enduro components.