RockShox Lyrik - 2018 Fork

(discontinued)

Rockshox Lyric RC

· 150/160/170/180mm in 27.5" and 29" 

· 2040g (27.5" model, 160mm travel, Maxle Ultimate, DebonAir)

 · Charger 2 damper

· Adjustments: External rebound, low speed compression from open to firm

· Upper tubes: 35mm tapered wall aluminum

· Magnesium lowers

Initial Impressions

               I was excited to see the Lyric was going to come on my new bike after having the Pike on my last bike. I was looking for something stiffer and with more travel, but still have the same great performing damper I was used to. Mine is set up with 170mm travel with 27.5 wheels on the front of a 2018 Spartan. The construction is top notch on the outside with no visible flaws to be noted. The adjusters have a nice detent when making adjustments to help keep reference on your tune.

On the Trail

              I wanted to be sure that the fork was at least broken in before writing a review. Now that I feel like it fully broken in, I can give it an honest review. I initially had it set-up with 3 tokens in the air chamber, but I have since backed down to 2 as I feel it gives me the right ramp up at the end of the travel. I am using about 200 psi of air (180lbs not geared up). Speaking of travel, I find it hard to bottom this fork out completely just like my experience with its littler sibling, the Pike. I ride this bike in a variety of terrain from Southern downhill at places like Windrock Bike Park to easier cross country trails. I does feel like it sets midway in travel fairly easy, I would like to see a little more mid travel support. I can find a small amount of stiction at the very beginning of its travel though as you can with pretty much all air forks, but it does have a buttery overall feel.

              This one only has the slow speed compression and rebound adjusters vs the additional HSR you can find on the RCT3 version. I believe that all together that is is just fine. Sure, some HSC may come in handy, but the simplicity of these adjustments are nice for a change.

Long Term Durability

              This fork has the second version of the Charger damper in it. I have had very good luck and long intervals with the first one. I fully expect this one to be the same.

The Bottom Line

              Rockshox has brought back the once beloved Lyric in a new uniform. It performs great and looks the part too. It has subtle looks that will not bring too much attention, but will dominate the trails ahead. I have not had any issues with mine thus far, and would recommend this fork to any of my friends looking for a stout and smooth performer.