The RockShox Pike is undisputedly one of the most popular and reliable suspension forks on the market. But it also needs a technical update every few years. Because not all bikers want to dig deep into their wallets every time to buy the latest model of the fork of their choice, Rock Shox has recently started offering retrofit kits for older models: such as the "Charger 2" damping and the "Debon Air" suspension. Ride ordered the Debon Air retrofit cartridge and installed it in a Pike. This technical upgrade is also available for the Lyrik, Revelation and Yari from 2014 onwards.

Thanks to new seals, the system works with less friction. If you move the old and new cartridges by hand when they are removed, the difference is striking. This is noticeable on the trail, as the fork responds noticeably more sensitively. In addition, the Debon-Air cartridge has a larger negative air chamber and offers more support in the mid-travel range.

It is advisable to have the conversion carried out by a specialist dealer, as the fork has to be completely dismantled, which requires special tools. Ideally, the cartridge should be installed as part of a fork service - which the manufacturer recommends every year. This way, there are no major additional costs for the work. The cartridge costs just 55 francs in specialist shops. Combined with the service, the costs amount to between 180 and 250 francs, depending on the provider.

Conclusion
For a small surcharge, you get your fork back from the service with significantly more power. It responds noticeably better and offers more support in mid-travel - which means smoother running on fast, hard hits. It also sags less in berms and at high speeds. So old becomes new? That's a matter of opinion. One thing is certain: thanks to regular servicing, the fork lasts longer and with the Debon Air cartridge, it comes back stronger than it ever was.

RRP: CHF 55.00 (cartridge only without service work and small parts)
www.sram.com