RockShox Unveils Rudy XL: A Suspension Fork Bridging Gravel and Mountain Biking
Durango, Colorado – RockShox has expanded its suspension offerings with the launch of the Rudy XL fork, a new model designed to blur the lines between gravel bikes and cross-country mountain bikes. The Rudy XL builds upon the foundation of the existing Rudy line and addresses calls for increased tire clearance and travel for more demanding terrain.
Evolution of the Rudy Platform
RockShox initially entered the gravel suspension market in 2021 with the Rudy Ultimate XPLR, featuring 30 or 40mm of travel and compatibility with 50mm tires. These early models utilized a 1.5-inch tapered steerer tube, a lightweight machined crown, and standard 12x100mm thru-axles.A key feature was the inclusion of mounting points for both full-length and mini-fenders.
Last year saw refinements to the damper design, moving to the charger Race Day 2 damper for improved performance and reduced weight. A red color option was also introduced, though, tire clearance and travel limits remained unchanged.
Introducing the Rudy XL: More Travel, More Clearance
The new Rudy XL significantly increases the capabilities of the platform. while retaining the core design elements of its predecessors, the Rudy XL boasts compatibility with up to 29×2.25-inch tires and offers travel options of 50mm or 60mm. A subtle update to the fender design reduces the bolt count from three to two.
The suspension is managed by modified versions of RockShox’s Solo Air spring and Charger Race Day damper, commonly found in their mountain bike forks. These components have been tuned for smaller bumps and enhanced compliance. An integrated bumpstop is designed to manage bottom-out scenarios.
Rudy XL Model Breakdown
| Feature | Rudy XL | Rudy XL Ultimate |
|---|---|---|
| Damper | Rebound Only (Solo Air) | Charger Race Day 2 |
| Travel | 50mm or 60mm | 50mm or 60mm |
| Tire Clearance | 29 x 2.25″ | 29 x 2.25″ |
| Approx. price | TBD | $929 / €1,010 / £900 |
Designed for Endurance and Beyond
RockShox positions the rudy XL as a solution for the growing segment of drop-bar mountain bikes and ultra-endurance riders. It maintains compatibility with standard road and gravel bike axle spacing while minimizing weight, offering a simplified wheelset choice for riders tackling varied terrain. Did you Know? The gravel bike suspension market has seen a 35% increase in demand over the last two years, according to industry reports.
This fork is notably well-suited for riders undertaking long-distance events or bikepacking adventures where comfort and control are paramount. Pro Tip: When selecting a suspension fork,consider the type of terrain you’ll be riding most frequently enough and choose a travel amount accordingly.
Availability and pricing
The RockShox rudy XL is available now through the SRAM website and authorized dealers. The standard Rudy XL model is priced at TBD, while the Rudy XL Ultimate is available for $929, €1,010, and £900.
What are your thoughts on the increasing trend of suspension on gravel bikes? Do you think a fork like the Rudy XL is a necessary upgrade, or an unneeded expense for most riders?
The Future of Gravel Suspension
The introduction of the Rudy XL signals a growing acceptance of suspension technology in the gravel cycling world. As courses become more challenging and riders demand greater comfort and control, expect to see further innovation in this area.Future developments may include electronic suspension adjustments, integrated shock absorption systems and lighter weight materials. The demand for this type of tech is quickly growing.
Frequently Asked Questions About the RockShox Rudy XL
- What is the RockShox Rudy XL? The rudy XL is a suspension fork designed for gravel and endurance bikes, offering increased tire clearance and travel compared to previous models.
- What tire size will the Rudy XL accommodate? The Rudy XL is compatible with tires up to 29×2.25 inches.
- What is the difference between the rudy XL and Rudy XL Ultimate? The primary difference is the damper system, with the Ultimate featuring the Charger Race Day 2 Damper for enhanced performance.
- how much travel does the Rudy XL offer? The rudy XL is available with 50mm or 60mm of travel.
- Where can I purchase the RockShox Rudy XL? The fork is available through the SRAM website and authorized dealers.
- Is the Rudy XL compatible with all gravel bikes? Confirm compatibility with your bike’s head tube and axle spacing before purchasing.
- What type of rider would benefit most from the Rudy XL? riders tackling rough gravel roads, bikepacking adventures, or ultra-endurance events would see the greatest benefit.
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What are the key geometry changes introduced by the RockShox Rudy XL upgrade?
RockShox Enhances Tire Clearance and Travel with the Rudy XL Upgrade
What is the RockShox Rudy XL Upgrade?
The RockShox Rudy XL upgrade is a significant advancement for riders seeking increased tire clearance and travel on their existing RockShox rear shocks. Specifically designed for Super Deluxe, Deluxe, and Monarch shocks, the Rudy XL link offers a geometry change that unlocks new possibilities for modern mountain bike builds. It’s not a shock replacement, but a linkage component swap, making it a relatively accessible upgrade. This upgrade directly addresses the growing trend towards wider tires and longer travel bikes, catering to the demands of aggressive trail riding, enduro, and downhill disciplines.
Understanding the Geometry Changes
The core benefit of the Rudy XL lies in its altered shock linkage ratio. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes:
* Increased Eye-to-Eye Length: The XL link increases the shock’s eye-to-eye length by 18mm. this is the essential change that drives the othre benefits.
* Enhanced Tire Clearance: The increased linkage length creates more space around the tire, allowing for the installation of wider tires – up to 2.6″ on frames previously limited to 2.4″. This is crucial for riders wanting to maximize traction and control.
* Increased Travel: Depending on the shock model and original frame design, the Rudy XL can add up to 10mm of rear wheel travel. This extra travel provides a more forgiving ride and improved capability on rough terrain.
* Slightly Altered Suspension Characteristics: The change in linkage ratio also subtly alters the shock’s leverage curve. Generally,this results in a more progressive feel,offering better bottom-out resistance.
Compatibility: Which Shocks and Frames are supported?
Careful consideration of compatibility is vital before purchasing the Rudy XL. here’s a detailed breakdown:
* Supported Shocks:
* RockShox Super Deluxe (all models)
* RockShox Deluxe (all models)
* RockShox Monarch (RL, R, DebonAir)
* Frame Compatibility: The Rudy XL is designed for specific frame models. Currently, it’s confirmed to work with:
* Trek Fuel EX (2019-2023)
* Trek Roscoe (2018-2023)
* Specialized Stumpjumper (2017-2021)
* Specialized fuse (2018-2023)
* YT Jeffsy (2019-2023)
* Commencal Meta AM (2017-2023)
* always check the RockShox compatibility list on their official website for the moast up-to-date facts.
* Important Note: Frame compatibility is critical. Installing the Rudy XL on an incompatible frame can lead to damage or compromised suspension performance.
Installation Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
While the Rudy XL upgrade isn’t overly complex, it requires some mechanical aptitude and the right tools. Here’s a general overview of the installation process:
- Gather Tools: You’ll need a torque wrench, appropriate Allen keys, shock mounting hardware, and potentially a shock removal tool.
- Remove Existing Linkage: Carefully remove the existing shock linkage from yoru frame, following your frame manufacturer’s instructions.
- Install rudy XL Link: install the Rudy XL link in place of the original, ensuring proper orientation.
- Re-Mount Shock: Re-mount your RockShox shock to the new linkage,using the correct hardware and torque specifications.
- check for Interference: Rotate the rear wheel through its full range of motion to ensure there’s no interference between the tire,frame,and shock.
- Set Sag and Tune Suspension: After installation,you’ll need to re-set your shock sag and fine-tune your suspension settings to optimize performance.
Pro Tip: If you’re not comfortable performing this upgrade yourself, it’s best to take your bike to a qualified mechanic.
Benefits of Upgrading to the Rudy XL
The benefits extend beyond just tire clearance and travel. Here’s a thorough look:
* Improved Traction: Wider tires provide a larger contact patch, resulting in increased traction on loose or technical terrain.
* Enhanced Comfort: The increased travel and more progressive suspension feel contribute to a more comfortable and controlled ride.
* Increased Confidence: the added capability inspires confidence when tackling challenging trails.
* Modernized Geometry: The Rudy XL brings older frame designs more in line with current geometry trends.
* Cost-Effective Upgrade: Compared to buying a new frame, the Rudy XL is a relatively affordable way to substantially improve your bike’s performance.
Real-World Examples and Rider Feedback
Early adopters of the Rudy XL have reported positive experiences. Riders on Trek Fuel EX bikes, for example, have successfully installed 2.5″ tires, significantly improving their bike’s grip and stability. Many have also noted the improved
