Key Points at a Glance

The hybrid shock isn’t suitable for all bikes. Models with kinematics that have high progression due to their design benefit less than those with lower, more linear progression. The test was conducted on a Yeti SB16o, which has a final progression of 17 percent—a fairly linear setup.

Cane Creek specifies that the “Ramp Tube” should be inflated to a maximum of 30 psi. They recommend initially testing the system in 10-psi increments and then making smaller adjustments until the appropriate pressure for the increased progression is found. Inflating the air chamber not only controls the end-stroke progression but also the support in the mid-travel range. With the Ramp Tube, the Tigon is capable of offering 20 to 35 percent more progression than a typical steel-spring shock.

First Impressions

The build quality is absolutely top-notch, and the gold accents give the Tigon that certain something. The stepless Climb Switch is easily accessible and can be operated without much force. Not so with the high-speed compression adjustment—that requires quite a bit of finger strength. It’s better to use the 3-mm Allen wrench “stored” in the shock. It fits well into the adjustment wheel and provides the necessary leverage to turn it. The Allen wrench is primarily needed for adjusting the low-speed compression and rebound characteristics. Unusual for a steel shock, but very practical: the laser-etched SAG gauge on the shaft. Depending on the shock pump, the Climb Switch must be closed to allow access to the air valve.

In Action

As you’d expect from a steel spring, the Tigon responds even to the slightest bumps. Even without a filled ramp tube, the suspension feels more progressive than with a standard steel shock. This is due to the Valt spring, which inherently provides slight progression thanks to its progressively tighter coils. When riding uphill on trails, the pedal platform effectively prevents the soft shock from bobbing. Riders who ride an open system with air in the Ramp Tube benefit from increased counterpressure in the mid-travel range, which improves climbing performance. On descents—and especially on very rough terrain or during hard landings after jumps—the benefits of the adjustable end-stroke progression become apparent. It provides optimal counterpressure, and the rear end never bottoms out. Otherwise, the Tigon performs well, but due to the numerous adjustment options, it requires some know-how.

It takes a few rides to find the right pressure in the ramp tube. It’s impossible to give a general recommendation, as different forces and influences act on the suspension depending on the bike’s kinematics. With the Yeti, 10 psi was perfect.

Conclusion

After a few runs, you’ll find the right setup. Depending on the pressure in the ramp tube, you’ll also need to adjust the compression settings. In addition to the variable end progression, the Tigon offers the added benefit of increased “mid-strike support.” Unfortunately, the adjustment knobs generally require a lot of manual force or a tool to turn—there’s still room for improvement here.

Compared to traditional steel shocks, the Tigon noticeably improves performance. The difference compared to a well-tuned air shock is minimal. Whether an air or hybrid shock is a better fit is more a matter of personal preference regarding ride performance.

Recommendation

To find the right setup, it’s recommended to start at 30 psi and then use the bracketing method to gradually adjust—first in 10-psi increments and later in 5-psi increments—until you achieve the desired result.

Price: CHF 749.00 / EUR 615.95

Manufacturer

www.rad-solutions.ch