ROCKSHOX PIKE SELECT
£715 www.zyrofisher.co.uk
The lightest fork on test, this Select model is the entry-level offering in RockShox’s Pike range and uses a less-refined Charger RC damper that only has externally-adjustable low-speed compression and rebound damping. With the same 35mmstanchion chassis as the Pike Ultimate, it’s just as tough, and had no problems with us getting aggressive. For trail riding, it punches above its low weight in terms of robustness. If you judge the Pike Select on its beginning-stroke suppleness it won’t win any prizes, but it handles small bumps perfectly adequately. Finding grip on the trail isn’t a problem, either. The fork comes alive in the middle portion of its travel, though.
While mid-stroke support isn’t outstanding, its ability to deal with hits fast and effectively, and return from deeper in the travel towards the sag point, is impressive. This gives the Pike Select a comfort level that’s only surpassed by the higher-spec Pike Ultimate and Fox 34 Factory. We settled on the same 75psi air pressure and one token as we did for the Pike Ultimate, and the same rebound settings. The Pike Select’s cheaper Charger RC damper isn’t quite as forgiving and plush as the Charger 2.1 in the Ultimate, so the fork is a shade less composed over square-edged hits and has a slightly harsher feel through the bar.
That said, progression builds up nicely, and the damping will suit a wide range of riders. The Pike Select’s six-position low-speed compression dial is more user-friendly than the adjuster on the Pike Ultimate, too, which is good news for fit-andforget types. For the money, this fork impresses with its simple set-up and impressive performance. There’s also the option to upgrade to a more expensive damper as and when you can afford it.