When the partnership between Trek and Penske began five years ago at a NASCAR race, no one was sure where this alliance would lead. Today in Charlotte, North Carolina, Trek teamed up with Penske Racing Shocks to unveil a new generation of shocks. Penske started with their own independent testing to see what direction they would take the shocks. The child of this new partnership is now called Re:aktiv and brings Formula 1 technology to mountain biking.

How does Re:aktiv work?
Re:aktiv is all about regressive damping. In principle, suspension elements should be very direct and firm. In the event of larger impacts, the damping should be opened and the impacts cushioned and then immediately be direct and firm again. Current damping elements are either progressive or degressive. This results in a compromise between "low speed compression" for slow impacts and "high speed compression" for heavy, fast impacts. Re:aktiv damping, on the other hand, has a regressive effect. The damper really comes into its own on fast strokes, as it then has a regressive effect. This results in greater control because contact with the ground lasts longer. Re:aktiv is said to be the best-functioning shock on the mountain bike market.

How does Re:aktiv feel on the trail?
Re:aktiv really comes into its own on the rough sections of trails. Efficiency in trail and climb mode has been improved. This brings us one step closer to the ideal of no longer needing descend mode and always being able to ride in trail mode. The bike remains more stable, especially when cornering, and the geometry remains consistent as a result.
The products are already being delivered to Trek dealers this week. The Fuel EX and Remedy models in 27.5 inch and 29 inch will be equipped with the new technology throughout.

Strong trio
It took Trek a while to develop the partnership between Penske Racing Shocks, Fox and Trek. Initially, there was uncertainty as to how it would be possible to integrate the two suspension specialists into one project. However, after more than five years of development, a fruitful partnership was formed and Fox is now adopting the new technology and making it suitable for mass production.
Penske Racing Shocks emerged from the Penske Racing Team in the NASCAR series. For 25 years, the company focused solely on motor racing and never manufactured products for mass development. The company supports a total of six Formula 1 teams, including Torro Rosso, Mercedes Petronas and Force India.