Conclusion from Max Fuchs, BIKE editor
I have already been able to test the new Vivid in combination with the ZEB on a Yeti SB160. The setup of the Vivid is uncomplicated: SAG markings are present, the low-speed compression is numbered and can be adjusted without tools. The high-speed compression and the ABO are operated via the removable rebound wheel - so everything can be done without additional tools. Compared to the standard Fox Float X2, the new Vivid feels like a small safety boost for the Yeti on descents: the rear suspension generates more traction and is more plush. The new Vivid is particularly sensitive to small bumps at the beginning of the travel. RockShox has hit the compression tune for the bike well. The 0 position works well as a base. From there, the adjustment range offers enough leeway to fine-tune the bike for different terrain. Even though the new Vivid is more comfort-orientated and likes to use a lot of travel, it still generates enough support in the mid-stroke and doesn't bottom out.
Technical data: RockShox Vivid Ultimate
| Feature | details |
| Field of application | Enduro |
| Damping | RCT2 |
| Air spring | Linear XL |
| Puncture protection | ABO (hydraulic, adjustable, last 20 % of the suspension travel) |
| Pressure stage regulator | Numbered, high and low speed separated |
| Rebound control | Extractable, Allen-compatible |
| RRP | 850 € |
Linear XL: Air spring with steel spring character
The new Linear XL air spring in the Vivid works according to the same principle as the air spring cartridge in the new ZEB: the spring characteristic curve should be as linear as possible. This means that the force for compressing the air spring increases evenly over the entire spring travel - no abrupt pressure build-up at the end of the spring travel. The ride feel is predictable and constant, similar to a steel spring. If you prefer a more progressive set-up, you can still adjust the characteristic curve using classic volume spacers.
RCT2: New damping unit, matched to the ZEB
RockShox based the compression tuning of the new damping unit on the damping characteristics of the new Charger 3.2 damping of the ZEB.
The decisive technical innovation is the lower IFP (Internal Floating Piston) pressure. This has been reduced by 40 per cent. A lower IFP pressure means that the damper builds up less resistance during initial compression. This reduces the breakaway torque of the shock and is particularly noticeable at the beginning of the spring travel due to its sensitive response behaviour.
ABO: The hydraulic breakdown protection remains - with a new name
We already know Rockshox's adjustable bottom-out protection from the old Vivid as HBO (Hydraulic Bottom Out). It has been retained - but is now called ABO (Adjustable Bottom Out) to match the new suspension forks. Technically, nothing has changed: The hydraulic system can still be used to fine-tune the compression damping on the last 20 per cent of the suspension travel in order to parry bumps better. If you frequently use the entire suspension travel, you can intervene precisely here - without affecting the damping characteristics at the beginning and in the middle of the stroke.
Numbered controls and extractable rebound damping
The setup is even more accessible on the new Vivid. The compression adjusters are now numbered - the basic setting starts at 0, from where the damping can be gradually increased (+) or reduced (-). And the rebound adjuster can simply be pulled out: At its end is an Allen key that fits all the other adjustment screws on the damper. No more separate tools for fine-tuning on the trail.
Max Fuchs
Editor
