Enduro suspension fork test: Rockshox Zeb Ultimate - the price/performance winner
Peter Nilges
· 30.09.2025
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While the casting of the Zeb has proven itself and has already been adopted for the current model year, the inner workings have undergone some updates. The Charger 3.0 damping cartridge, for example, has been replaced by the newer Charger 3.1 has been replaced. But what does this update mean in detail?
Update to Charger 3.1 damping cartridge
Firstly, the low-speed compression stage has been reduced. In the open position, this should enable a 68 per cent increase in oil flow, which makes the fork more comfortable. On the other hand, there is a stronger high-speed compression stage, which provides more support in the fully closed position. Professional racers wanted this option so that the Zeb is higher in its travel on steep, fast sections. New shim tune kits are also available for riders who prefer customised tuning. This allows the fork to be tuned even better for particularly light or heavy riders.
Laboratory and practical tests
All suspension forks have to show their colours in our own test laboratory. Objective and reproducible values in terms of stiffness and weight create a clear categorisation and debunk marketing claims.
To test how well the Rockshox works in practice, we took three identical bikes and three riders to the Bischofsmais bike park for a day. The Zeb had to prove itself against the established competition (Fox Podium and Fox 38) in a direct comparison on different trails.
RockShox Zeb Ultimate
| Category | details |
| Price | 1,249 € >> available here |
| Setting options | Air pressure, high- and low-speed compression, low-speed rebound, volume spacer |
| Max. Disc Ø / weight limit | 220 mm / no weight limit |
| Standpipe diameter | 38 mm |
| Available spring travel | 160, 170, 180, 190 mm |
| Weight | 2.368 g |
| Installation length | 587 mm |
| Stiffness | Twist: 36.1 Nm/° / Brakes: 261 Nm/° |
| Test values | |
| - Sensitivity (15 %) | 0,75 |
| - Downhill (45 %) | 1,5 |
| - Handling (10 %) | 2,0 |
| - Brake rigidity (7.5 %) | 2,0 |
| - Torsional rigidity (7.5 %) | 1,0 |
| - Weight (15 %) | 2,0 |
| Overall grade | 1,51 |
Our review of the Rockshox Zeb
The Zeb has never been so sensitive and forgiving. After updating the damping cartridge to Charger 3.1, the Rockshox was so sensitive through the bike park that we even had to significantly increase the air pressure and compression damping compared to its predecessor. As a result, the enduro fork manages a great balancing act from extremely comfortable to racy and will suit almost any rider. What more could you want? In comparison, the Fox Podium, which we rode in comparison, still generates more traction and works even more defined. The air pressure recommendation fits quite well with sufficient compression and provides an ideal starting position. The markings on the compression knobs provide a good orientation for the setup.
Test summary of the Rockshox Zeb Ultimate by Laurin Lehner, BIKE test editor
If I had to spend my hard-earned money on an enduro fork, the Rockshox Zeb would be my clear favourite. It can do everything at a very high level. The Fox Podium does go one better in terms of function, but it doesn't justify the immense surcharge. - Laurin Lehner, BIKE test editor
