All Coil Shocks Ranked: An Unfiltered Review!

[@OtterMTBtech]

Join the tech talk here facebook.com/groups/1360284884937740

[@lostguy2025]

I do not utilize facebook unfortunately. :-(

[@edlorenz1552]

I've been waiting for a KZbin video like this for years. HONESTY. KZbin has become one giant wasteland of "commercials". Thank you.

[@OtterMTBtech]

I was falling into this trap. 1 video away from never getting a brand deal. Friend told me better to be broke then a sell out. From now on I live by this

[@WildMidwest1]

@@OtterMTBtechAfter all the gear you bought (and sold) on shocks, adapters and springs, “broke” has got to be the best substitute word ever for “coil curious.” Well done, Otter! 🎉

[@YanDoroshenko]

Phew! DONE! I have no idea why I watched this from start to finish, I have no intention of buying a coil shock or anything else for that matter, I like my bike how it is.

[@OtterMTBtech]

Best answer right there. I call it the upgrade trap

[@_Jake.From.Statefarm_]

One day you'll need to replace it or upgrade... Times are a changin' lol

[@DakicSlobodan]

I just bought EXT Storia V4 two weeks ago, rode it almost every day; as a replacement for my Fox X2. EXT is the real deal, nothing but spectacular performance.

[@DakicSlobodan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5bYnoyQrd54qacsi=2YfVXVHy6ZRfkxtz

[@Doggepp]

What bike did you put your shock on, and are you still happy? Anything negative a out it so far? I am strongly considering a V4 for my megatower

[@cliffsangelsphotography]

Thank you for this. I can now update my Christmas list

[@ailllx9010]

Lol😂😂

[@OtterMTBtech]

😂 this winter will be a blood bath for bike parts

[@ailllx9010]

@@OtterMTBtech are u planning to make a same vid like this one but air shocks ??

[@dimaalexandru5240]

​@@OtterMTBtech can you do one for firks?

[@portugalsud2924]

From what I read on french sites: The sensivity order is: Fox (most sensitive), Formula, Cane Creek, Ohlins (least sensitive). Formula has a wide range of compression damping (compared to any shock in market, included Storia), but not of rebound (needs valving if the spring is 600lbs/inch). Formula makes a harsh noise with the lock on. Cane Creek Kitsuma for rebound has bigger range of damping. Get the Cane Creek Kitsuma v1.2 for yoke frames. The new v2 has a more sensitive compression (said by Cane Creek).

[@Ch4rlieHughes]

The sheer effort that went into this video...like n sub given as tribute ! Actually trying to choose a rear shock as well

[@Adwhy]

I just started my project yesterday, perfect timing. Thanks!

[@behnamkakavand]

Dude, this is a great video. Very informative. Thanks for sharing! I think I want one of those Ohlins now

[@JoJo-yr6io]

Keep up the good videos!! No one on KZbin does your type of angle's on this stuff!!

[@Goldenloammtb]

Well done, and love your content! Please keep making this content because I appreciate your insight

[@davidloyo7275]

This is a real KZbinr! Maybe in the future will be good to have a similar video with air shocks

[@OtterMTBtech]

😎. Nice idea I rode all those too

[@MTBGeordieDownSouth]

Just took my Ohlins TTX off my Ripmo V2s recently, fitted it to my 24 Moterra SL and rode it, still excellent despite probably having the wrong spring/setup for the bike, sent it off to get serviced, new Coil and custom tuned for my Moterra SL, due back early next week, can't wait! Great review

[@sierratangoandras]

How is it then?

[@MTBGeordieDownSouth]

@@sierratangoandras rode it on a muggy wet muddy ride on Wednesday night and it’s fantastic, didn’t have to mess with it at all, huge amounts of traction, plush off the top, plenty of support and immense over the chunk, extremely happy

[@xflow]

Great video. And totally agree about the Öhlins. Got the TTX22m.2 - and it's by far the best shock I've ever ridden. Rock gardens or root sections are now big big fun to ride, with this wonderful Swedish piece of engineering and technology.

[@user-xq5rp9fm1p]

EXT is king, service is a cinch, just send it in, 1-2 weeks later it's back in your hands with the best most supportive feel/performance, and if you want a beefier Era fork, just go with the Extra Long version (reinforced stanchions and CSU) and have them reduce the travel down to as low as 150mm...plus they have springs all the way up to 800lbs...crazy! Cool factor is 1000+ 🤴

[@drewz4236]

I’m going ext in the rear for my Levo soon. I just ordered a fox38 fork yesterday

[@GoetheCronshaw]

I love you so much! I recently just found your kislux and i’m in love!! Your videos are so fun and you energy is just MWAH! keep living your life

[@OtterMTBtech]

💋

[@shafiqjan1474]

I am so pleased that my last bike purchase was a Mondraker Foxy R aluminum frame bike with Ohlins air fork & shock with a low end drivetrain that got replaced and then trickled down bikenomics style to my Wife's fat bike. She went from 2x10 to 1x12. Then I upgraded my '18 Kona Process 153 AL/DL with Ohlins coil fork & shock. My enduroish trail bikes are dreamy and I am done. Both bikes behave perfectly with a few rides and minimal changes to my initial intuitive setup they behave and I can trust them.

[@Coerced]

so what is the Mondraker on now?

[@alexanderivanov6920]

i found Ohlins TTX coil on a sale ( didnt know much about brand and didnt watch any reviews ) and replaced my Rockshox Select air shock with it . What a difference !!! Now watching this ,seems i bought one of the best shocks on the marked

[@OtterMTBtech]

Easy setup is the selling point. Could probably get the same performance from allot of the shocks with new shim stacks hours of setup

[@fe9523]

amazing video, more content like this please

[@mkrj2576]

Thanks for the detailed review. The CC Inline is a shock I’ve run on my Knolly Endorphin for many years. Great shock. Climb switch/lever is super useful as it engages not only more LSC but also more LSR when flipped. I’m not much into flipping climb levers but this one works so well I use it a lot. And so, having a larger, easy to flip on the fly lever is a good thing. Never once have I accidentally engaged it. And I do a fair amount of hike a bike and shouldering my bike on rides. Thanks again. Would love to try an Ext.

[@OtterMTBtech]

Good to hear people endorsing cane creek. USA brand. I am always adjusting the knobs and run into the lever.

[@gettingtozero5376]

Great vid... very thorough. Much appreciated.

[@TheRexPerkins]

I appreciate the effort put in to make this video it’s been very helpful. I know it will take some time but can you please make a video comparing all of the air shocks?

[@OtterMTBtech]

Soon

[@paradox963]

I can say I have the Cane Creek DB IL on a Revel Ranger which is a 115mm rear travel bike, and it is awesome. The inline is great on my bike cause it still leaves room for a full size water bottle. I will agree that I am not a fan of the sweeping dials I would rather have clicks, and while it took awhile to get it set up it has held the setting just fine. On my bike at least the climb switch has never been an issue, I have never moved it by accident, it's a much firmer switch than say a Fox so it does take some force to move it.

[@gkkgl5mkakhelt]

Same here, and the climb switch is rock solid. Good point on missing clicks for the high speed adjustments though. A bit disappointed there was no actual review of riding the shock .. ?! Then its not a review really. "Superficial judgements on the DB IL coil without riding it"

[@sgtkurry]

I have the DB IL on a carbon Rise and it was miles better than the Factory Float DPX2. Really wasn't hard to set it up either. Thinking about getting another or the Ohlins TTX1 air for my future Pivot Mach 4 SL that is replacing my Revel Ranger that I have a Push and Pike Ultimate on.

[@roddas26]

Came here to say the same thing. How can you give a review/ranking on a product you haven't even used?😂

[@OtterMTBtech]

Glad to hear it works well.

[@roflKartofflel]

Starting MTB riding on a 2018 Specialized Enduro in 2019, running RS fork and air shock. Been on that setup until 2023 and then bought my dream bike. Commencal Meta SX v4 Öhlins Edition. This rig runs awesome, mainly parks, for pedaling I have a YT Izzo also running Öhlins fork (36) and shock (TTX Air) since this year. Now I am looking for self servicing the forks and shocks, as Öhlins is rather expensive, but worth it IMO.

[@rokgundaker5024]

Great video, please do this for air shocks too!

[@MrLince-hr4of]

💚green is my car💚green is my bike💚i love green💚

[@nathanfarrington1687]

I haven’t had the cane creek katsina db shock for 3 years have only ever had it serviced once and it runs great

[@OtterMTBtech]

Good to hear I just am getting bad ones

[@portugalsud2924]

​@@OtterMTBtech They say it's not made for yoke bikes, they have a v1.2 version for that but they released the new v2 version

[@darrinkulyk9560]

Excellent Vid Thanks 😎 I Have a TTX on my CF Demo8 With a 450 TI Spring Its AMAZING Love It Going to Whistler Next weekend for the 13X this Season 😎 I Had a IL CC Shock on my CF Warden with a 450/550 Valt Spring It Lasted 6 days at Whistler Then LITERALLY Blew Apart ....

[@OtterMTBtech]

Let’s be real I don’t think any inline shock is cut out for whistler or 1,000 foot DH line

[@darrinkulyk9560]

@OtterMTBtech yes I ran it for a Season on the North Shore then 6 days in Sept at Whistler as I didn't have my DH Bike yet . The Shock literally broke in half and it's a Wimpy shock light construction and cheap wouldn't recommend it to anyone . Bought it because it was local and available . The TTX has Done 12days at Whistler This Season without issue doing the final day next Sunday 😎

[@darrinkulyk9560]

​@OtterMTBtech was On the Enduro so even though it was tested my Riding would at that time would have been same as a mid pack Enduro Racer say the CF Warden Is About 30% slower than my CF Demo8 So shock abuse not the same category. With it in bits I can see WHY It didn't hold up it's a light duty construction would be ok for XC imo that's about it . Definitely not aggressive Enduro. If I knew the construction I wouldn't have bought it . The Warden Now has a Elka Shock with Res not sure the model with a 600lb Spring Older Shock but Rebuilt and DH Ready. Nice Shock

[@ianbales]

Digressive damping means less damping at end of travel..? I thought damping was position independent... As far as I'm aware digressive just means that the increase in damping as velocity increases is less than linear. Of course, the outcome is still the same: less bottom out resistance. Also why include The Cane Creek IL if you didn't even ride it? BTW the climb switch is rock solid, I've never bumped it out of place on mine.

[@BlueLineRider]

I willl update this as I go 2:58 tigon 6:00 rockshox deluxe coil select 7:00 cane creek double barrel IL 9:00 fox dhx 19:00 dhx neo live valve 24:00 marzocchi bomber cr

[@5dayMovingAverage]

Love my DVO Jade, and Jade X. I'm thinking about getting the Jade Prime. The Jade is already good ad I don't know if I needed to upgrade

[@LastAphelion]

People can laugh at me if they want but I always dreamed of having an enduro even though I only have cross country/trail to ride and I finally got one with the RS 2023 sdu coil and it was the best blind buy ever, it even came with a lighter spring than I need but it just pedals so well I don't ever feel it bobbing on me or a need to swap it out for air or anything else. I considered trying a progressive spring on it for my weight but I dont even feel a need for that I'm not a hard rider. It convinced me I only want coil again even if I got a less serious bike as long as it stays towards the more progressive, playful, pedal friendly end of the spectrum

[@Bittersfamily0424]

I have a the latest Super Deluxe Ultimate Coil with a springdex (760-650 lbs). For reference I am 300lns fully geared up. I started with two full turns of pre-load. It felt good but not mind blowing. Last night I tried just one full turn. Man it was a night and day difference! Can’t wait to get it out on the trail and get it tuned in. I usually run 4 our from full slow on rebound. But I am going to experiment with 6 out.

[@ninjazzrhythm400]

I remember watching a video why DVO with the bladder. They did a blind test and on all of of their test, 100% picked bladder type shock and thats for all conditions.

[@OtterMTBtech]

It’s not hype. Why would Ohlins choose this if it was. Blank check suspension brand

[@rzv_on_bike]

Can you do this ranking with downhill forks as well?

[@jeffh9071]

Maybe you know by now, Cane Creek released an updated kitsuma coil in November. Warranty was doubled to 2 years. Never had a gen 1 but just ordered a gen 2 and fingers crossed it holds up.

[@richardarabian1276]

Great in depth video for rear shocks. I just got the YT Decoy 5 with FOX 38 X2 and X2 air was looking to switch to coil. The Decoy 4 has Ohlins TTX22 M.2. Would that work with a FOX FORK. I am worried about the service and tuning it right. I had a CC DB IL on my SC Hightower with a Sprindex which was plus and better than air. I was leaning on the Crane Creek Kitsuma Coil with the newest model having addressed tuning with clicks now. For about the same price it seems Ohlins should still be more impressive. Any thoughts?

[@rpiian]

The later Cane Creek shocks are bomber. I have a kitsuma coil and had a DB Air IL (gen 2). Both are very reliable, high performing shocks that feel awesome when setup. I service mine normally based on run time since I don’t always have the same riding time per season. The Kitsuma coil trunion I have does have subtle clicks on all the dials, for what it’s worth. But it does help to have experience setting up high /low speed shocks (which I did from the DB Air IL). I am using a progressive spring (550-680) on a ‘22 Process 153 and I’m around 210 sans gear. I also am using a spherical bearing on the lower eyelet. It feels awesome and I love the climb switch. Clicks are noticeable compared to a Bomber CR Coil that I throw on for park days.

[@OtterMTBtech]

Good to hear I just had bad ones

[@rpiian]

@@OtterMTBtech To be fair, they are subtle clicks, but clicks nonetheless. But maybe I got a different/newer/older version. Who knows!

[@ReneeLakes]

En el momento en que vi el bolso kislux , supe que tenía que tenerlo.

[@justsayin3600]

I watched your review on the EXT which convinced me to go with them. I went through Cascade because I bought a link for my Stumpy Evo. Cascade worked with me through the tune process. Cascade was awesome! Not only that, I had some questions for EXT and sent an email. EXT even put my tune on the box so I had a baseline for my weight and riding style. The product manager was traveling from the East Coast back to HQ. He said I could call him anytime. Not only was I extremely satisfied with the service from both, but the EXT E-Storia with a Cascade link, and WRP yoke in mixed wheel is mind blowing on the EVO!!! Not to mention, I upgraded the Fox 36/160mm to a 38/170mm. I can't imagine any other bike in this travel range could be any better. Thank dude for the review. You were spot on!!!

[@OtterMTBtech]

Allot going on back there. Those links are no joke. Levo 1 is nice experience

[@portugalsud2924]

Anyone has info about Formula Mod coil shock ?

[@pauls1128]

I have two of them - have tried back to back on 3 different enduro frames - vs Intend Hover (3rd place - fancy air can), Storia V3 (2nd place), Formula Mod (1st Place). Any questions? Lockout on Mod is rock hard and it has a safety incase you forget but not really necessary as it is so hard you will never forget. Mod weighs a tad more than Storia. I have not tried Storia V4. I have the Ohlins on an ebike - it feels excellent. Might try it on my enduro bike.

[@OtterMTBtech]

It looks like servicing it at home is easy?

[@pauls1128]

@@OtterMTBtech , not tackled it yet. No nitrogen needed as it uses a bladder and the shock pump is included in the box (a good one with a quick release I might add). I could not find a service manual online so I emailed Formula and they sent it to me. It mentions custom tools (not cool). Sorry - I have had one of them serviced professionally and have been remise in servicing the other one. For reference, I service my Manitou Mezzer (including damper) myself.

[@andreano81]

Latest CCDB Kitsuma does have clickers for lsc and lsr. I own 3 different ccdb's (including Kitsuma) - all work flawlessly for many years. Amazing shocks if you know how to setup suspension. The most important that i do not need to revalve these shocks and do fine adjustments directly in park. Even if i change heavy dh tire+wheel to a lighter one, i'm able to fine adjust ccdb's to compensate. Presence of HSR is a big plus - it does make a difference. CCDB leaves nothing to desire. Another fine shock is marzochi bomber cr but you need a custom tune and piston upgrade. Stock was unridable for me. Especially HSR was way out of acceptable range. Had several dvo jade DH - both work fine for a few rides and then require service because of air sucked in. Keep away from them. Problem with EXT and Öhlins is that it must be valved for you. You may get several marzochi bombers with tune and upgrades for the same price. Performance wise it would be difficult to tell the difference. Had shocks with IFP and bladder - cannot feel difference between them. Small bump sensitivity for coil shock is not good deciding factor either. Most important is setup/valving and how it is suited to your weight and ride style.

[@andreano81]

@@OtterMTBtech Wow. I see there is nothing to do for me here. No need to argue with a fool

[@testtesttesttesttest884]

I agree

[@portugalsud2924]

The Dvo jade you had are only Jade or Jade X or even Jade X Prime ?

[@azzy9532]

Those responses from Steve were very reasonable and you kinda did him a disservice with your summary, especially given he took the time to answer your questions. He backed up his claims with measured data and engineering considerations as opposed to just going "feels better"

[@OtterMTBtech]

I highly respect Steve, the inspiration behind making nerd shock videos. I said non IFP responds faster. Something that can only be felt. If IFP shocks are the same why is Ohlins not onboard? I gave his response in summary and let him know I was extremely grateful for the response. Go back to the old tech Tuesday and watch the Fox 38 video he tore down. I’m summery he says 38 stanchions are not important dyno data says the head crown should be stiffened. How did that age? I rode all the reinforced 36 mm stanchion head crown forks and they don’t even compare to 38. It’s something a Dino can’t measure. Hope this helps your take. I won’t just be a push over KZbinr for free product. still mad respect 🫡 for the guy even though I burned my bridge. I won’t sell out

[@janpavlas4414]

excellent and now forks :)

[@YanDoroshenko]

I have no idea what I'm talking about, but I don't think springs are springs. I believe that the angle at which the coil is... Well, coiled, plays a significant role in the its flexibility. Let's say the uniform part of the spring (disregarding the ends where it's made to better fit the shock) is made out of L inches/meters of material, it has N turns and it's length at rest is l0. Then the angle a0 at which the compression force is applied to each point is arcsin((l0/N)/(L/N)) which is arcsin(l0/L). In a compressed state at spring length l1 the angle would be arcsin(l1/L). Since we're operating between 0 and 45 degrees of angle here (I've never seen a coil shock with coiling angle outside of that range) and l1 is necessary less than l0, lower sine value means lower angle. If we apply the same force at a lower angle, the spring is easier to bend (I don't really know how to formalize this, it's just common sense), which means the spring is softer if it has tighter coiling. If all that is correct, the progressive spring is a spring where the distance between the turns is increasing monotonically. As a side note this gives us a way to construct coil springs with all sorts of weird force curves. Of course, we consider the Young's modulus of the spring material to be constant across the entire spring. Another way of getting a progressive spring would be to have a standard shaped coil but with different Young's modulus across it's length, for example by different heat treatment of different regions of the spring.

[@OtterMTBtech]

🤔. This is good theory. It feels softer the short one so this could be it.

[@josephlopez7593]

I have the formula shock and I could attest to the buttery valving (three included valve options you can switch out) paired with poppy goodness

[@pizza4921]

What cts are you running, debating weather to move up to the green one

[@jimmyyang6296]

I just bought a Voro directly from the distributor in NZ, haven't managed to get it fully dialled in yet, still messing around with different springs. Have done some riding in Austria and I can already feel the difference in grip compared with my air shock. looking forward to getting it fully dialled in.

[@OtterMTBtech]

Low ifp pressure all you need to know

[@mtanski1]

To be honest, Fox also builds shocks for more heavy-duty racing applications (motorcycles, trucks trophy trucks, ...)

[@DiamondEyeMcGee]

Bikcycle stuff is a joke to them

[@OtterMTBtech]

Forgot about the trophy trucks

[@philstone80]

Nice. But you missed the FAST Fenix Evo..

[@wesleyoke8448]

Its funny. Couple years ago... id show up with my ohlins front and back to the bike park... and get that elitist crap from fox guys with their kashima crap. And id tell em... the (at the time) new zeb ultimate is way better. And the ohlins is on a different level. And they just wouldnt hear it. Fast forward 2 years and now i see the ohlins on all their bikes lol. And the guys that havent switched (because obviously all this stuff is highly expensive/no hate) are very verbally and visually jealous. Esepecially when we charge dh.

[@antoanangelov5672]

Definitely. Elitist and weight weineis are the worst.

[@thesuperkat943]

At risk of sounding like a boomer, with the (at least old) DHX2, the one that used poppet valves, it had a huge range and was INSANELY sensitive. It was such a nightmare to tune though because it had huge range, and such course clicks that i went back to a marzo and reshimmed once i got it back from some warranty work, and haven't looked back since. Make sure its a newer DHX2 and not an older one (if the adjusts are the same size, its the older poppet system)

[@Mastereur411]

Man if you put the high speed lever on the 3rd position and the shock has got the enduro base valve (blue one) the 3rd position equals to a pedal mode If it has got the gold base valve it’s a firmer high speed compression , the enduro base valve has the 1st and 2nd position pnly to ride on

[@addidub774]

@otter: I can't find any reports of snapped DHX (2022 and later) shocks. Could you point out some recent reports of defective DHX 2022 Shocks? They come with a 1/2 inch steel shaft, other then the older DHX Iterations.

[@addidub774]

I see you covered the DHX2, not the DHX. That explains your rating a bit better. There are indeed lots of reports about snapped DHX2 Shocks, especially on strut mount bikes. How would you rate the DHX 2022 in your rating?

[@OtterMTBtech]

Terrible. Needs hsc it is strong and cheap. Eats chunk nice. Sluggish large main piston probably the problem

[@skifischer]

FYI - I'm running an MRP Progressive Coil on my DVO Jade. Its awesome.

[@ChainBrothersMTB]

MRP Hazzard was so good- I owned one in my Meta. Super sturdy, approved for bikes like the Meta and your Kenevo… I dunno I loved it. I’m curious though to try something else and saw they are sold out or discontinued as well. I emailed them and they claimed it would be in stock within a month… that was over a month ago now and no change.

[@runnerfxabc8160]

I would love to go for the DVO Jade Prime X but I am really scared of it breaking and breaking the carbon frame...

[@thedane3408]

What is your set up on your öhlins ttx 22 m.2? I have a specialized kenevo. I weigh approximately. 97kg we riding gear. I have a sprindex coil. And the coil is set at 605 Ibs. And this give a sag at 28%=18mm. And l 2 click from fully closed on rebound damping. What is your setting for lsc? Thank you all the great videos🙂

[@OtterMTBtech]

Middle everything with 570 spring. Knock the spring down up the compression. I ride bike with 29er wheels. Position 3 hsc for the park

[@JimCasteel-z1p]

Push is only 10 minutes from my house, so service is easy, and warranty extends every time you send it for service. I'd love to try their front forks, but that's too rich for my blood. Maybe after they hit the used market. I picked up a used one that they're currently servicing. Hopefully it will be awesome. Otherwise I will switch to Ohlins because I have trusted them for 25 years on my dirt bikes. Although DVO has been working with WP lately, so maybe their stuff is going to get better than it already is.

[@OtterMTBtech]

The only way to WP DVO is to buy the Gas Gas ebike. So bummed on that.

[@jankaskyevitchjellbet7293]

Amazing!!!

[@mudia80]

A question. This tuning session. How do You do it? Can You describe it?

[@OtterMTBtech]

Advanced Suspension Setup MADE EASY kzbin.info/www/bejne/nny3lJqPdrxgqbM

[@ProWhiteAntiJew]

When is the coil oil front suspension fork shootout coming out? Marzocci bomber z1 vs rockshox 30 vs cane creek helm vs..???

[@OtterMTBtech]

What makes the BEST MTB FORK? kzbin.info/www/bejne/pGWWlH-Knc1nopo

[@flyingjoed]

I have the Ohlin TTX22 m.2 on my new YT Decoy MX. At 220 kitted, the 411 coil is WAY too thin for me. I spoke to The Lost Co today and they said to consider the Springdex with a 540-610# rate. My question is, how do you like the Ohlin with the Springdex? Great video btw! Crazy amount of content and work!

[@OtterMTBtech]

I’m the same weight 570 spring is probably your number. Sprjndex fits

[@pauls1128]

5lbs lighter kitted and I fit an EXT 550 lb spring on Ohlins on YT Decoy MX. Seems to be the right sag and performance. I did use a spacer as the EXT spring was a little short (not in stroke mind you).

[@AJ_Brimson]

hey otter, which coil do u reckon is poppier, the EXT or the Ohlins?

[@OtterMTBtech]

DVO

[@chadchandler7]

Great video. Question what are your thoughts on the new 2024/25 Rocky Mountain Instinct? Especially after the Pink Bike review? Mine currently is a C70 SRAM build with the OE RS SDU Air. First bike I've ever owned that rear end feels terrible all the time regardless of sag, removal of positive tokens, or compromising added Compression. Cheers

[@OtterMTBtech]

First off super deluxe is trash. They discontinued that in less than two years. Cut your losses and go coil. I have the Ebike instinct. Found it almost unridable with pedal strikes. RM refuses to acknowledge and fix the issue. Media outlets barely touch on it. The only reason I kept it is I got mullet front link and left the 29er in it. 360 BB rideable with 170 cranks. I found instinct trash bike. Converting to altitude much better. Allot of short comings of the 210x55 shock Adding here. I have some air shock videos coming out. Running 40% sag. In high setting is only way to make air shocks work, but pedal strikes get worse

[@tomalbert3299]

Thank you for this in depth coil video! One question. Why do think Maxima oil ist bad?

[@bareharald]

Great video! I learnt a lot! What shock do you recommend for bikes that is not so progressive (around 20-25)?

[@OtterMTBtech]

HBO hydronic bottom out in ext RockShox is really good. Ohlins high level of compression control does near as good. Any shock with progressive spring too. Depends on your budget, you just gotta build in some bottom out control yourself

[@xwowa123x]

What is yoke bike? Could anyone clarify that? Is Cannondale Jekyll 1 a yoke bike?

[@OtterMTBtech]

That’s not but it has other issues with fitment. Yoke bike is all specialized ebikes

[@xwowa123x]

@@OtterMTBtech I am interested in installing Suntour Voro, because it is cheap and I just want to try out coil on Jekyll, beacuse Fox X2 hasn't backed me too well. Is it possible to get an advice from you on if Voro fits Jekyll 1?

[@Tomichi_]

Hi, in some shocks i saw you using sprindex, i have some doubds about it.. does it really change the spring lb or just the preload feeling ???

[@OtterMTBtech]

It does a really effective job at helping you find your sag and spring rate. Debatable if it helps deep in stroke

[@thispod]

For me both ohlins and the ext score the exact same points as ext get a 6 on service. Ext factory is 40 minutes from me, and 15 minutes from it, same distance from my house, there's an ohlins authorized service shop 😂 (I also paid 600€ for my e-storia, brand new and shipped from a store in Finale, got it after your ext video)

[@jawzzy3]

Love my storia but the servicing prices are getting annoying... There's no reason it should be 30% higher than other brands.

[@thispod]

Mine is still pretty new, we'll see how it goes once it needs a service. Apparently ext has revoked all licensed 3rd party service agreements and now wants all shocks to be directly sent back to them, at least in Italy and if you want to keep your 2 years warranty

[@OtterMTBtech]

European products are never reliable or service friendly. Get on the Rockshox boat for that

[@KarlHasenjaeger]

@@jawzzy3I’ve got one coming on a bike, how often do you need to service?

[@jawzzy3]

@@OtterMTBtech the ext storia is known for being very reliable. But like all other shocks, it requires a regular service. Ext service rates are 30% higher than other brands, including ohlins.

[@TeamCykelhold]

I respect the amount of work that went in to this. Great list, very interesting and nice with chapters to make it easy to digest. It does however makes me wonder about the choice of putting text in the sheet in so many different sizes, colors, types and so on, making the sheet ugly and confusing. What happaned to just make a column readable in an orderly fachion? :) I hope I didn't sound too harsh, still love the vid!

[@OtterMTBtech]

World needs more harsh real answers.

[@stanley013]

Fenix Fast Suspension?

[@TanJ197]

@OtterMTBtech I just purchased a Propain Spindrift 5 AL and I spec’d it with a RockShox vivid coil select. The select comes with the more basic Touchdown RT damper. For a novice rider is there any reason to upgrade?

[@OtterMTBtech]

Nope it’s like drugs

[@twilliamrc4wd]

Have you try DNM shock

[@OtterMTBtech]

No they are imperial sizes only

[@Model6780]

Is it a good idea to fit a coil to a gen 3 levo.and if so what 1

[@OtterMTBtech]

There is a list of recommended coils in the video for specialized bikes

[@NaZ-rs1dd]

Hey Otter, big fan and supporter of your vids! I've got a 2022 Merida e160 with a 160mm Rockshox Lyric Ultimate fork and a 2022 non-Buttercups air shock in the back. I weigh 88kgs and I love jumping and going through rock gardens. I'm thinking about upgrading to a mid-range coil shock and spring, and I'm considering DVO,suntour or marzocchi CR. Do you think that these would be a good match for the Rockshox Lyrik? I'd really appreciate your help and suggestions looking forwards to your reply👍

[@OtterMTBtech]

Hard to say I have never seen a Merida and don’t know about the bike, super duluxe vivid is safe bet with hbo. If that bike is linear suspension you need progressive spring on the other shocks listed. And those are skittle challenging and expensive to get dialed on. Signing out for a few weeks to R and R off the videos ✌️

[@maciejhadula8693]

Hey, im 93kg driver, yeti sb165 27,5 progresive frame. I like fun trails, jumping and pumping on flow trails, sometimes enduro and dh. Which one You offer for me ?

[@OtterMTBtech]

Ext or dvo good to match fork too

[@maciejhadula8693]

@@OtterMTBtech coil yes ?

[@maciejhadula8693]

@@OtterMTBtech right now i have dhx2 from seller with frameset and testing it but in my opinion the performance is very weak, and afraid its not inaff solid for my weight. i ask You only about damper

[@Cobalt512]

Do you have a ranking list of air shocks? A quick look at your channel showed nothing, and the 2023 Norco Fluid is coming with an X fusion 02 pro R 210x50, and it might need some love. Looking at suntour, $300 DVO and Marzochi.

[@Joker_Rishala]

Can you make a videо about old but gold dhx rc4 shock?

[@OtterMTBtech]

No the sizes are wrong

[@michaeljordan3084]

Do you know of a way to upgrade my super deluxe to the vivid?

[@OtterMTBtech]

Not worth it the piggy back is $300

[@StevenEliuk]

Can u talk about the performance thoughts on the ohlins vs push? Ive ridden them both and the ext and man the push feels better and more reliable... I guess depends on yhe rider and bike. Kool video.

[@OtterMTBtech]

Depends on what you’re after, push is dull the ohlins and EXT especially are more lively. In depth 11-6 video coming soon. Just spent month on it. The bottom line is the 11-6 shock eats chunks better than anything, but the bike park flow trail jumping is lacking. The over sized IFP in essence makes the slow movement of a IFP worse. The trade off is I would say it’s safest shock I ever rode in the chunk. If you tried all of them then you’re the winner. Most just say RockShox is best and haven’t even tried another brand. And that’s true if that’s all you know

[@StevenEliuk]

I hear u but it's got two valve, I have motion instruments and have analyzed the data on both and more, u can easily make the push as fast as EXT. My issue was I had the ext serviced several times and the data suggested nothing was actually done... It solid and def feels good but unreliable tune from servicing. For me it's 11-6, ohlins, ext.

[@OtterMTBtech]

@@StevenEliuk The Bladder does not need to change direction like a IFP. This is not something machines can measure. To be frank, I did not know why the EXT shock felt so good tell I spoke to some logically minded brands that do not soly rely on dyno data. Blind test run bladder vs IFP bladder will alwys win. The Storia in this video was tuned for 130 lb rider no issue. Current Push shock is the same, Push did not work well, Push is using simple mono tube like old Fox van shock, needs a dedicated shim stack to get rebound right, so your paying for a shim stack. To be honest I did notice any benfit from the custom 11-6 in this video to the off the sheld EXT. The flow trail setting on the 11-6 is just more damping it does not change the charcitor of the shock and it's sluggish respsonse time that is amazing on a DH line

[@Model6780]

Having huge issues with x2 what shock for a levo air or coil

[@OtterMTBtech]

Air is easier for this bike.

[@Tekniq1210]

Is it worth buying a second hand ohlins ttx at £450

[@OtterMTBtech]

Yes

[@Tekniq1210]

@@OtterMTBtechis the ttxm just as good as it’s not the m.2

[@porroco]

Hey which after market coil spring fits on canecreek double barre shock?

[@OtterMTBtech]

Mostly all I think 1.5 inner. Only fox won’t fit. DvO is straight swap in Sprindex comes with clips to fit

[@porroco]

@@OtterMTBtech thanks, i sold a rs coil to a guy with canecreek shock and did not fit.

[@pawel102]

I have a question, what do you mean with this blader? What do you think the blader brings to the damper performance? the blader has absolutely no influence on the operation of the damper. I can assemble you a ttx22m with a blader and a regular ifp and you won't know which is which. service intervals are the same.

[@pawel102]

What was your compresion and rebaund tune in ohlins ttx22m?

[@OtterMTBtech]

As far as a bladder vs IFP there is very little difference when your looking at a dyno but its how the shock is felt on the trail. The bladder give you very good small bumb as it allows for a easier transition from compression to rebound. An IFP has to physically change direction from compression to rebound as the damper shaft moves through the travel. Hope this helps and let me know if you have anything further..

[@pawel102]

@@OtterMTBtech as I wrote earlier, if I gave you, for example, a ttx22m with a blader and a regular ifp. You wouldn't be able to tell which is which. suspension deflection is about the speed at which the shaft moves. you can hit the so-called small bump at high speed, which will accelerate the shaft to 4000mm/s and its HSC. And you can hit the same obstacle slower, which will accelerate the shaft to, let's say, 700 mm/s and its going to be mid speed compresion. how you feel the stroke initiation depends on the correct midvalve tuning, not whether it is a blader or a traditional ifp.

[@OtterMTBtech]

Have you tried both back to back riding?

[@pawel102]

@@OtterMTBtech i work with suspenshion tuning an setup on daily basys. We do a lot of tests. Personaly i ride on Demo with ohlins suspension, and my daily bike is Spec Enduro with ohlins suspension. On Enduro first i ride with ttx22m like you know it have blader, but on spring ttx22 i have botoming out problem in this frame thats why i switch to ttx22air it have normal ifp. Proper setup and valv tuning and Air wersion fils like spring version. If you ride on normal trails not on the parking you cant feel the diferences.

[@lostguy2025]

Here's the question. What is the best/ ideal/ preferred shock for a bike with a high(er) UNSPRUNG MASS, such as that which is on an ebike with a hub motor? I ask because the physics of such a system are fundamentally different. I have yet to discover a video that addresses this issue. Keep in mind: reliability and durability are often of greater concern here as well. Please comment.

[@OtterMTBtech]

I would say Suntour, it is a massive oil capcity cheap easy to service, What full sus bike has hub motor. I do not ride cush core to get rid of the unspring mass

[@Lewis1LifeOnWheels]

I got an ext storia v3 at this moment, yet any cheap coil shock can defeat a best air shock😆 (I use to have a intend hover for my yeti, and it's trash😂)

[@GigaChad-yu2yz]

Do this with air shocks

[@fredEVOIX]

watched a video about coil shocks and was sold a Float X ...or an ohlins which was praised to no end by a local fork shock service shop apparently he was right

[@OtterMTBtech]

If your happy with float X don’t change. Float X take off cost $150. Ride 2 years let it blow up and buy another take off. Less than the service bill

[@olejohnnyprestbakken1145]

Regarding coil springs: a coil is a coil no matter. The spring rate, preload and length can be different. As I mentioned when you used a to low spring rate and winded it up with tons of preload, it is like testing a tyre without air or to much air, it does not tell anything. The only thing that can be a difference is the progressive behavior that for expample the Sprindex/Vorsprung coils have. Regarding bladder vs ifp piston you say that the bladder gives the shock more poppy feeling? That has not anything to do with bladder vs IFP, the difference is related to IFP pressure not type of IFP. It could also be a lot of differences related to mono or dual tube design, and of course the valve design in general. So please stop to categorize shocks with or without bladder, since it is not relevant.

[@OtterMTBtech]

Thanks. 🙏 I’ll look further into this. Mono tube etc. I stand behind the list regardless. The bladder air shock topaz same damper didn’t notice much difference same with forks. Just the coil shock it seemed to make the difference.

[@darrinkulyk9560]

Buy A TI Spring They Run Alot Better Than Steel 😎

[@olejohnnyprestbakken1145]

Just asking, how did you take care of the ifp pressure when changing oil of the Fox shock? The Fox uses Nitrogen in the IFP? The other thing you states about bladder is much different from IFP piston is also not correct. There is no difference like you say regarding the ride feel gets more poppy and so on. I have tested EXT with both and and it is no difference.

[@OtterMTBtech]

I used a special blend of 78% nitrogen 21% oxygen, from my digital flux capacitor shock pump. Nitrogen won’t leak as fast, pump works fine There is a difference big one. The IFP is making slow changes in movement. Damper is working on another planet with EXT. so IFP not bad. Combo bladder ext 1 shock gets 6 stars on the list

[@olejohnnyprestbakken1145]

@@OtterMTBtech I think you are not on the page here. You do not take not consideration what actually is one of the most important thing with EXT, the IFP pressure. That is so low as 55psi, vs the other you run in your test that probably has 200+psi. When you choose to pump the Suntour IFP pressure you actually are experiencing some of the problems that occur. The fact that there is no difference with IFP bladder/piston is proven if you test E-storia vs Storia. Or the new storia vs the old one. The differences in ride carasterics is not due to bladder vs piston. Steve at Vorsprung says that, along with EXT, Mojo Rising that is the most experienced in the business. With all respect you are on the wrong page here. That is the same with the coil spring statements, that I even did not bother to figure out what you mean at all. A coil spring is a coil spring, except for some that has some progressive behaviour like the Sprindex/Vorsprung ones. As talking about progressive behavior, the same is for mono shocks vs dual, there is quite a difference in the way it works, so you might mix that when you compare them as well. So please state these claims differently so your experiences are not connected to technical designs, and that is only a personal experience that might have to do with how the design is made in general. There is also quite big difference in how bike frames behaves also, so Specialiced frames can have a different "feeling" then other bikes/frames. So your test is pretty personal and subjective, but if defined such it is okay.

[@OtterMTBtech]

Truly appreciate the effort on the comment. DVO told me they blind test rode their shocks IFP and everyone preferred the bladder. I think you and Steve should hang your helmets up and get the lab coats. For sure nothing I do is scientific and the list is otters preferred list. My favorite shocks have a bladders. Someone none sensitivite riders may not notice.

[@OtterMTBtech]

1 more thing. Why is all EXT shocks losing the ifp. And ohlins doesn’t bother as well. I see your take the damper is the king, but I stand behind the list.

[@olejohnnyprestbakken1145]

@@OtterMTBtech The fact that Ohlins has it and EXT have changed to bladder is not the reason that it is the best. It is many other things that matters, it is cheaper to manufacture and it is cheaper to maintain. It is not easier to bleed a bladder then IFP shock though. Ride feeling is not changed, for sure! You mix together with conclusion from here and some there. Together you get a conclusion that is truly not relevant since there are a lot of other aspect that influences the ride feel. There is not such answer that bladder triumph all. Sorry to say but these tests are highly subjective and has nothing to do with real life testing at all!

[@mikestivers8302]

dahell's wrong with fox? i mean, the forks are good 36/38 - but the shocks are trash!! i just let go of a tyee w/ a dvo jade x. damn good ride. now i got a spindrift with the sdcu c1 tune. the bike has progression to the nines so this coil works great too.. just got a vivid for my next ride, a spot mayhem 150. we shall see!

[@LaurentiusTriarius]

I just changed my udh again then I saw the Otter has uploaded, 2 hrs. Man I want to ride today 😅 I'LL BE BACK I'm extremely happy with the X Fusion H3C (185x55) I got mine from S4 suspension on sale without any expectation , slapped a cane creek valt prog 550 to 670 lbs without any adapter and it's a fire combo, yellow lever at 1 and rebound almost fully open this thing feels very lively, at 2 it's normal trailbike mode, at 3 it's a pillow. I'm really digging the blueish grey look also... 😅 Have you tried or opened these cheap DNM shock? They look suspiciously close to a voro...

[@OtterMTBtech]

I only knew to look that up from your comment. No usa stock on that. I bet it’s pretty good with the lever.

[@LaurentiusTriarius]

​@@OtterMTBtech it's super simple to use, I bought the last one in stock at S4. btw look up Alba distribution from Canada they currently are liquidating a couple of EXT forks and shock they are going fast, with current exchange rates you might be interested not sure how imports fees from Canada work in your state... There's some Era v2.0 at 750$ CDN and v2.1 ~1500$ CDN it's not a bad offer... Not sure if I should get the discounted Lok. We'll see 😅

[@LaurentiusTriarius]

​@@OtterMTBtech it's super simple to use, I bought the last one in stock at S4. btw look up Alba distribution from Canada they currently are liquidating a couple of EXT forks and shock they are going fast, with current exchange rates you might be interested not sure how imports fees from Canada work in your state... There's some Era v2.0 at 750$ CDN and v2.1 ~1500$ CDN it's not a bad offer... Not sure if I should get the discounted Lok. We'll see 😅

[@HelloHello-gv2gg]

You sound like the dude from Seattle coffee gear! Not bad just weird.

[@WhenlWasYourAge]

The rockshox with hydraulic bottom out is just the best.

[@YanDoroshenko]

What happened at 45:54? I guess no one else watched that far...

[@OtterMTBtech]

Thank you it glitched there chopped it out

[@ok-sh2zo]

to be fair, the tigon is meant for bikes with flat or regressive leverage curves. the RM powerplay is a very progressive frame

[@ok-sh2zo]

and please don't review any shocks you havent ridden (like the x-fusion). if you havent ridden it, you really cant be expected to provide accurate feedback on it.

[@OtterMTBtech]

Don’t watch it then

[@ok-sh2zo]

@@OtterMTBtech dont call it a review then

[@pauld1848]

@@ok-sh2zoit’s a little bit like the “review” videos of products with a voice synthesis that just reads the Amazon descriptions with a slide show.

[@shredandenjoy7311]

RE: 210x55 on the Cane Creek, unfortunately some Enduro bikes shipped with this size shock. I had a Norco with this, and my Nukeproof Mega 290 has this shock length unfortunately. It's absolutely terrible as a heavy rider to run air on these because the ratio is so high you'll have to run 300psi on the rear shock, and the stiction is unbearable on an air shock when you air up that high.

[@OtterMTBtech]

This why I am a coil shock only. Any air shock above 250 is trash. 210 x55 just makes it worse not much better with 230x55

[@shredandenjoy7311]

@@OtterMTBtech Interesting that the overall length affects it for you. I've found the ratio of stroke to travel matters more for me. My 160mm Nukeproof Megawatt with 230x62.5 feels near coil plus and I can run 210 or so PSI, while I had to run 300 psi on my 210x55 Nukeproof mega.

[@shredandenjoy7311]

@@OtterMTBtech oh yeah and looks like you're PNW based, at least from the trails I am seeing. Not sure if you want/need more trail riding folks but happy to join up when I'm free and I get out on Cold Creek, Sandy, Post, the usual suspects.

[@pauld1848]

@@OtterMTBtechI ran a custom tuned DVO T3 air with the cascade link on my Stevo. It was FAR better than the notoriously terrible DPX2. I recently picked up a used linear tune SDU shock, which is supposedly the best evurrr. It sucks in comparison to the DVO, which is super plush yet supportive and responsive. The SDU is going back on the used market…

[@jimm3379]

My Orbea wild came with a Float X, and it was absolute garbage - could never get it right. In fairness, I’m a heavier rider at 105kg, and probably should always be on a coil shock. Based upon your vids, I bought the OHLINS TTX22 M.2 COIL - UNBELIEVABLE!! It transformed the bike, still can’t get over how well it rides with the Ohlins. For anyone in Australia, talk to NS Dynamics, Brisbane. They really know their stuff.

[@OtterMTBtech]

Good to hear dog. I’m same weight coil just makes life better. Last couple air shocks deflated themselves to 240 psi and they rode good, except pedal strikes. So if you can’t hit your sag at 240 psi coil is better.

[@jimm3379]

Spot on Otter! The RFX38 m.2 is coming soon, to complete the marriage

[@11ElevenMTB]

Why on earth would you test coil in the smooth bike park? You get coil for traction over the rough terrain. Go and ride some natural trails with roots and rocks at speed.

[@OtterMTBtech]

I only ride bike paths

[@porroco]

Fox neo livevalve is just for climb switch.

[@OtterMTBtech]

It has like tune options in app. No hBO hsc $1.400 I am guessing it will flop down like version 1 live valve