Formula is entering the air shock segment for mountain bikes for the first time with the Nebbia. The Italian manufacturer, also known for high-end brakes and suspension forks, is expanding its range with a versatile damper that is characterised by simple setup, adaptability and reliability. According to Formula, the Nebbia is designed for a wide range of applications - from short-stroke trail bikes to downhillers.
Simple adjustment and customisability
According to Formula, it attaches great importance to an uncomplicated setup of the Nebbia. Starting with the frequency sag indicator - it is intended to provide quick visual orientation when setting the air pressure. After a year of continuous use, however, we have to say that we would have preferred a display with concrete percentage values, as found on Rockshox. One wheel each for compression (21 clicks) and rebound damping (23 clicks) are enough to adjust the shock to your personal riding style. The notches of the stages are pronounced, but nevertheless smooth-running. Bravo!
There is a lever above the reservoir that can be used to select three riding modes: open, platform and closed. However, the platform mode only subtly suppresses the bobbing movements when pedalling. For really efficient pedalling, it is better to close the compression stage completely. The wide adjustment range of the rebound makes a special tune for different kinematics superfluous. Another practical feature is that the Nebbia's negative and positive air chambers are equalised when fully extended, which makes inflation easier.
One damper, three compression tunes
But now for the highlight: the scope of delivery includes two CTS valves (Compression Tuning System). They can be used to tune the compression damping softer or harder. This system eliminates the need for a special tune for different kinematics and makes the Nebbia compatible with almost any frame. Also good: The stroke can be reduced by 2.5, 5 or 7.5 millimetres with simple clip-in spacers.
Neopos technology for progression
To adjust the characteristic curve in the middle and upper spring travel range, Formula relies on so-called Neopos technology - which we already know from the Italian company's suspension forks. In contrast to hard plastic spacers, these sponge-like volume spacers are designed to allow full utilisation of the suspension travel without exerting additional pressure on the seals. The Neopos spacers can be used like normal volume spacers in the air chamber.
Technical specifications:
- Price: 790 Euro
- Range of use: Trail to downhill
- Negative spring: hybrid of steel and air spring
- Rebound: 23 clicks
- Compression stage: 21 clicks + 3-position lever (open, platform, closed)
- CTS system: 3 interchangeable compression valves (soft, medium, tight)
- Stroke adjustment: 2.5, 5 or 7.5 mm reduction possible
- Neopos volume spacer
- Weight: 472 g (210x55 mm version)
- Warranty: 2 years (transferable)
The Formula Nebbia in the test
The Nebbia is supplied with the third, centre valve. In this configuration, the Formula Nebbia is very plush on our test bike. Particularly in the SAG range, the Nebbia senses bumps sensitively. Comfort? First class! In the mid-stroke range, however, the damper works somewhat undefined due to a lack of counter pressure. If you are prepared to sacrifice some comfort and traction, you can counteract this with more compression damping. You have to be similarly willing to compromise with the rebound damping. If this is set so quickly that the damper does not seize up even with high-frequency impacts, it will return to its original position with a noticeable clunk during flight phases. This phenomenon is called top-out in technical jargon. Here, too, the only solution is to increase the damping, but this has a negative impact on traction and comfort. During the entire test phase, we found it difficult to find a truly balanced setup.
Reliability and service
Formula specifies service intervals of 60 hours for minor maintenance and 125 hours for major maintenance for the Nebbia. The manufacturer emphasises that this information is based on real experience and not on marketing-oriented figures. Minor maintenance work can be carried out at home without special tools. For larger services, Formula recommends an authorised service centre, but states that these are also possible in the home workshop with the appropriate know-how and the right equipment.
10-year support promise
Formula emphasises the longevity of the Nebbia with a 10-year support promise. The manufacturer guarantees that spare parts, service and upgrades will be available for at least a decade. This applies not only to the Nebbia, but to all Formula products since 2017. Formula also offers a two-year transferable warranty, which also applies to the purchase of a used product within the first two years.
Max Fuchs
Editor
