Push Elevensix Shock - Review

May 12, 2016
by Mike Kazimer  
Push ElevenSix review

For the last thirteen years, Push Industries have been in the mountain bike suspension tuning business, allowing customers access to services usually reserved for sponsored racers. Last year they released their first complete suspension offering, the coil-sprung Elevensix shock. Aimed at riders aboard 140-170mm all-mountain and enduro race machines, the silver, Steampunk-esque shock is completely manufactured in Colorado from domestically sourced materials. It's also custom tuned for each rider based on their weight, riding style, and the frame the shock will end up on. Of course, domestic manufacturing and bespoke tuning comes at a price, in this case to the tune of $1,200 USD.


Push Elevensix Details

• Intended use: all-mountain / enduro race
• Made in Colorado
• HyperCo steel spring
• Adjustments: two independent high- and low-speed compression circuits, rebound
• Parabolic low-speed needle design for both compression and rebound
• Weight: 870 grams (216 x 63mm)
• MSRP: $1,200 USD
www.pushindustries.com
That price does include an element of future-proofing to help ease the sting a little bit. Push will revalve the Elevensix at no extra charge, allowing riders to swap the shock from one frame to another while maintaining the same level of performance. What about swapping to a frame that uses a different shock measurement? In that case, the revalving is still free, and the customer will only need to pay for the parts.

Push recommends sending the shock in once every 12-18 months for a factory rebuild (a similar recommendation to most suspension manufacturers). That service costs $125 USD, but it also includes the installation of any updates, such as a revised piston or valve, that have occurred since the shock was purchased.


Push ElevenSix review
The grey lever switches between the two valves, each with their own high- and low-speed compression adjustments.
Push ElevenSix review
A set screw allows the spring preload ring to be locked in place, and a polymer ring helps prevent the metal-on-metal contact that can cause a spring to bind up.


Adjustments

We covered the details of the Elevensix extensively in our First Look article, but it's worth going over the adjustments that make the most difference out on the trail. The most noteworthy is what Push call their 'Dual Overhead Valve.' This means that there are two separate compression circuits, each with their own externally adjustable high- and low-speed compression adjustments that can be selected with the flip of a lever. Now, the idea of a climb switch on a coil sprung shock isn't as novel as it once was, since Cane Creek and Fox both offer that option, but Push takes things a step further with the level of control they allow for each setting. The nature of the Dual Overhead Valve makes it possible fine tune each of the two settings, whether that's to make one for climbing and the other for descending, or one for rough, DH-style tracks and the other for smoother, jump-filled trails. Each circuit has 16 clicks of low-speed compression adjustment and 20 clicks of high-speed compression adjustment.

In addition to the compression adjustments, there are 20 clicks of rebound adjustment. That rebound is controlled by a parabolic shaped needle rather than the more typical cone shaped needle. It may seem like a minor detail, but according to Push, the parabolic shape helps make for a more consistent difference between each click.

The final rider-tunable element of the Elevensix is the steel spring itself, which is made in the USA by Hyperco. The spring uses Hyperco's Optimum Body Diameter design, a method that creates a spring that's slightly thicker in the center than at the ends. Along with saving weight, this is said to create a more linear feel, and reduce the likelihood of the spring contacting the shock body. Springs are available in 25-pound increments to allow even more fine tuning, since achieving the correct sag can be a little trickier compared to an air sprung shock.


Push ElevenSix review
The rebound knob is located at the base of the shock and controls the rebound for both valves.
Push ElevenSix review
Hyperco's Optimum Body Diameter design creates plenty of room between the shock body and the spring.


Performance

The Elevensix arrived with a sheet containing the pertinent details of the initial tune, including the amount of preload, the compression settings for each valve, and the spring rate. It also included the name of the suspension technician who built the shock, the one who did the final check, and the recommended date for sending it in for service (one year from its arrival date). On top of all that, there was also a printout from the dyno testing that the shock underwent before it was shipped from Push's Loveland, Colorado, facility. An alloy Transition Patrol would serve as the test rig for the Elevensix, and within a matter of minutes I had the shock installed and was ready go.

Accessing the rowdier trails in my area typically requires grinding up steep logging roads, which gave me plenty of opportunities to put the Elevensix's lever to use. I was able to achieve a feel that mimicked the middle setting of the Monarch Plus that was in place previously, which provided plenty of support and minimal bob whether I was sitting or standing. The lever was easy to reach and activate, with enough resistance to prevent it from accidentally getting knocked out of position, although I wouldn't mind seeing the outer edge rounded down a little bit – right now it resembles a flathead screwdriver a little too closely for my liking.

Now, the fact that the Elevensix can be set up to provide a nice climbing platform is all well and good, but most riders aren't seeking out a coil sprung shock for the uphills – it's on the descents where the feel of a coil spring is still the holy grail, at least for small bump sensitivity. With the Elevensix, the most immediately noticeable trait was just how much more grip the bike seemed to have. The rear end felt glued to the ground, smoothly tracking over every little nuance in the terrain. That sensation made it easier for me to take a little more speed into corners or through chewed up sections of trail, confident in the knowledge that the rear end would stay on track rather than getting bounced off line.
Push ElevenSix
The Elevensix installed on Transition's 155mm Patrol.

The way a coil sprung shock behaves will vary depending on a bike's suspension design, but the tune that Push designed for the Patrol was a very good match, and I didn't deviate more than a click or two from the out-of-the-box compression settings. Compared to the Monarch Plus, the installation of the Elevensix made the bike feel more like a mini-DH rig, giving it a more planted and less poppy feel. That was a benefit in rough, natural terrain, the type you'd find in an enduro race, but I did find that I preferred the feel of an air spring shock on smoother jump-filled trails. That's a trait inherent to coil sprung shocks, not just the Eleven Six – it's difficult, if not impossible to replicate the 'pop' of an air spring due to the more linear nature of a coil. I'd imagine that's a tradeoff many riders are willing to accept, especially due to the enhanced traction the coil Elevensix provides.

The silver shock accompanied me on plenty of long, steep runs, and in each instance there was no change in performance from the top to the bottom of the trail. It's also remarkably silent, reassuringly free of any strange squishing or sucking noises. There weren't any harsh bottom outs either, and even though I'm positive I used all the travel on a few hucks-to-almost-flat, I never felt the shock reach the end of its stroke. All in all, the Elevensix performs exactly as a shock of this caliber should, with effective adjustments, seamless, smooth operation, and after months of hard usage it still feels as good as the day it was installed.


Pinkbike's Take:

bigquotesThe price is going to be the biggest stumbling block for any rider considering the Elevensix. After all, there are several air and coil sprung shocks on the market that deliver a similar level of performance for nearly half the price, and often at a lighter weight. Of course, none of those options offer the unique Dual Overhead Valve feature, and focusing solely on price would be selling the Elevensix short.

In addition to the excellent and reliable performance that it offers on the trail, along with the fact that it's made in the USA, the level of customization is what sets it apart from other contenders. It's like purchasing a tailored suit versus an off-the-rack model (full disclosure: this is pure conjecture - I only own one button up shirt, and it has short sleeves); for many riders, purchasing an Elevensix will be as close as they ever get to enjoying the tuning services and performance available to a full-factory pro.
- Mike Kazimer



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Member since Feb 1, 2009
1,719 articles

213 Comments
  • 136 5
 Waiting for someone to comment about how expensive it is. Guess I arrived too early.
  • 233 3
 f*ck that thing's expensive
  • 42 9
 @SJones11: A top end fork are in the same price range and I'm sure the same level of technology goes into a top end shock. Not to mention the fact that you get a custom tune for the shock when you buy it. So while I'm a poor student and I'll be looking at more budget options, I can still see why many people might buy an Elevensix.
  • 72 10
 Once you get over the shock of the price, you can really flick the switch and push your riding to the next level.
  • 18 10
 Yeah the whole $1,200 thing is a bit much.... I'm sure it's super dope but still.....
  • 14 7
 doesn't matter. This shock is beautifully made piece of industrial art. And it happens to ride really well too Wink
  • 29 5
 Free lifetime service sounds about right.
  • 25 11
 I think a shock of this caliber just needs a better name to help justify the price. Like "the Push Chuck Norris" or
"Bitchmaster"...
  • 29 14
 After sea otter, I got to spend time with the boys at PUSH. We went on some rides, got to try out the shock-- I'm SOLD! It's not only PHENOMINAL, but you are also paying for something made in Merica, EXCELLENT, customer service, and you can carry this same shock to your next frame, just send it in, have them tune it appropriately, etc... For a fractional fee... $1,200 yeah... But ur also getting the whole band wagon with it. It's justifiable to me and I'm currently in process of ordering one for my insurgent! Gotta get past the price and look at everything else that comes with it-- this shock is an investment.
  • 5 2
 Maybe they should offer demos for a week at a time or something. The fact that it's future proof and that service is pretty reasonable has me at least interested...
  • 18 3
 @Clarkeh: You can do the same thing with an Ohllins for half of the price.
  • 5 1
 @malathion: at that price, it SHOULD be.
  • 9 7
 @enrico650: I sent my DRCV shock from my remedy in to push and had them replace all the internals. Its a whole different bike now! The old DRCV from fox/trek was too hard to absorb small bumps but bottomed out really hard when the DRCV portion of the shock opened up. The new shock is far softer ride than my V10 was and I haven't found the bottom of the travel yet riding the same trails I used to ride only with the V10. (That's why I sold it)

Push is legit. Best decision I have ever made for my bike
  • 7 8
 @DragontalesDH: Your conversion is nothing compared to a complete new shock.
I'm not contesting the performance of the shock ,I'm saying there are other options with the same performance at a lower price.
  • 12 2
 I did come here to joke it must have got it's name for costing Eleven Hundred and Sixty Dollars.... However, now I see Im not that far off it doesn't seem worth it anymore.
  • 9 22
flag Chuvak (May 11, 2016 at 20:57) (Below Threshold)
 It does not look like it worth 1200 bucks. besides, we have CCDB, why do we need this hello from the 90's?
  • 2 3
 @malathion: makes the 1200 seem not too much, on and you can swap between frames..even better!
  • 4 7
 @powderturns: That would be logical and we know the cycling industry and logic are mutual exclusive

Plus, the next great widget is only ~two years away.

While I'd like to believe this is the end all be all of shocks, how many people honestly know how to set-up their suspension? Plus having someone set-up a shock for how another believes they ride is getting out there.
  • 15 2
 The price is fine for a low production numbers Boutique peice of Equipment. Its there for those who want it, and great options exist for those who don't.
  • 10 0
 @sourdiesel: 1200$ is my bike budget Wink
  • 15 4
 It's surely not for everybody but if lifetime service is included, then it almost becomes cheap after a few years!

I'm still surprised the reviewer get comprehension for the pricetag because "along with the fact that it's made in the USA". I never read that for any BOS product, made in France, same or higher labour cost than the US, or the fancy italian shocks (forgot their name). It should be worth mentioning for any product not made in a sweatshop, and that means more than the US.
  • 19 20
 @EnduroManiac: I've worked with various American engineering companies and I wouldn't call 'made in America' a selling point.
  • 10 3
 @ermoldaker: I didn't say it's a selling point. But it helps understanding and accepting a higher price point.
I won't further comment on American engineering, also because making a generality isn't good.
  • 13 1
 that is ridiculously expensive....... you're WAAAAAAAAAY better off buying a Avalanche Woodie AND an Avalanche cartridge kit for your fork.. then you'll have the best custom tuned suspension money can buy.... with maybe enough money left over for a Big Mac !!!!!!!!!!!!
  • 9 1
 That's what I'm saying!!! Craig is the man, and all his shocks are make in house too. Haven't had and AVA in a few years but they're one of the best I've riden... Right now I'm on DVO dampeners and they also custom tuned to me and my bikes for half the price.....
  • 14 8
 @enrico650: Maybe the Ohlins is half the price.... But I can't help noticing that it also has HALF the compression circuits What sets the PUSH apart is the ability to have two compression circuits perfectly tuned to the kind of terrain you're riding... not simply an arbitrary increase in low speed compression like other shocks (the new X2 lever for example). Besides, the Eleven Six is like bolting credibility on to your boring rig, it's going black and not going back, clicking "yes I'm 18" just looking at it, and swaggering harder than a drunken raccoon all rolled in to one. WTF else were you going to spend $1200 bucks on anyhow?
  • 8 1
 @nzandyb: Yes, it's clearly that you are young so, before you make more comments maybe some homework on the history of and racing heritage of Ohllins is in order.
It's the only suspension company that doesn't sponsor any riders.
That's how good their products are.
  • 4 8
flag repsaj54 (May 12, 2016 at 10:39) (Below Threshold)
 @Clarkeh: I'm SHOCKed to see more companies aren't trying to PUSH this technology in the market
  • 1 2
 @enrico650: I was actually advocatig getting your current shock rebuilt by them. Get the same performance as their total new stuff inside the body of your current shock. At a small fraction of the price. I think mine was $300 ish.
  • 4 2
 @enrico650: I would agree with you that Ohlins are the best. My son runs one on his 29er Enduro and it is a game changer. Also on a demo 8 Ohlins too, and we have found that a properly valved shock you don't chase adjustments during set up.
  • 5 2
 @enrico650: I'm 30 and have used Ohlins products on several of my motorcycles. I fully appreciate the prestige and heritage of the brand. Having been part of the bicycle industry for several years, I get the privilege of talking to engineers at other companies. One of the few conversations that stands out in my mind is with Darren at Push who designed the Eleven Six. I can say on good authority that the $1200 price is representative of the cost of building the shock, not a blown out MSRP money grab. The Ohlins is definitely one of the best shocks on the market, and perhaps the best value for money... but it still doesn't have that second compression circuit, and therefore lacks the versatility of the Push.
  • 3 2
 @nzandyb: the second compression circuit is more or less a climb switch.
  • 4 2
 @MX298: A very expensive climb switch!
  • 2 0
 @ibishreddin: looks like something the Borg from Star Trek made.
  • 1 1
 What a shock inducing price
  • 1 1
 @Ronworth: your pun is pushing it!
  • 1 6
flag ermoldaker (May 20, 2016 at 3:54) (Below Threshold)
 I knew this would get negative responses. Name one good American engineer or one truly innovative American product.
  • 1 6
flag ermoldaker (May 20, 2016 at 3:55) (Below Threshold)
 @nzandyb: and we all know more is better, right? Over having one well designed circuit.
  • 4 0
 @ermoldaker: that's some fine trolling. . . . . .
  • 1 2
 @MX298: thanks dude.
  • 3 0
 @MX298: The second compression circuit is whatever you want it to be.. that's the point.
  • 2 2
 @nzandyb: but what else would you use other then climb( pedel) . . . . Descend? Climb switch! ! !
  • 1 1
 @enrico650: That is old news. They sponsor them now, I think.
  • 59 8
 Looks like an awesome upgrade on my Nomad but... if I can get 90% of the performance with a Float X2 (air) for 1/2 the price, less weight and $s left for an Avalanche cartridge in the Pike, then that may be the way i'll go.
  • 7 2
 Bingo!
  • 20 31
flag NorCalDH (May 11, 2016 at 18:00) (Below Threshold)
 2 independent valves means having 2 shocks in one. so really a fox shock is 50% the performance.
  • 14 5
 @NorCalDH: come on dude, in the end it's gonna be "trail" and "DH" OR "climb" and "trail"... obviously it will be custom to the way you set it up, so that's awesome. But lets not pretend it's MAGIC or something...
  • 8 1
 I'm with you. I feel like i'm the only one that didn't like the ElevenSix. I installed had it on my patrol for a month and just never fell in love. Someone offered to trade me a Float X2 and $400 and I took it. I loved the X2 so much more
  • 10 2
 get an avalanche shock as well as the cartridge and do it right Smile
  • 6 1
 Like Norcal pointed out, this control layout is without peer, I love discrete adjustments and the ability to toggle is revolutionary!!! Hate the price, but well, it's goddamn worth it!! Service? Seems free but it's not likely in all cases, but still worth it. Locally sourced is the icing. I've set up a couple of Yeti SB6's with thisshock and it is very promising, and I don't like A LOT of shit that comes down the pike, and honestly thought they were princess shocks. Not the case... they got it dialled. Parabolic rebound needle is my favorite feature, it's so noticeable. Toggled LSC/HSC settings? Ughhh, take my money. I'd have a "dry" and "wet" setting and save myself the wee bit of time trying to recollect.....
  • 1 1
 @bat-fastard: I really want to try the avy upgrade in the monarch but haven't seen any feedback on that as of yet.
  • 5 1
 I've their full shock, and fork cartridge. Their stuff is just so well made compared to original components. Just do it you wont regret it..
  • 3 1
 @mikericci I have rode both the elevensix and the new float X2 on the nomad and others. The elevensix was developed on a nomad from what I hear. I promise you that you will NOT get anywhere near 90% of the elevensix with the X2. The X2 is by far the best air shock out there and has some coil like qualities but just isn't a coil. I wish you could demo an elevensix built for your nomad and a X2 back to back. All said and done suspension has a science but also has preference. If you want a poppy and super "playful" shock that bounces all over the place than yea go with a mass manufactured stuff.....But if you want the best traction and potential speed out there...the elevensix is it!!! It sticks to the ground on super chunky terrain and creates speed and with the flick of a lever can go to a more "poppy" park and flow shock. Its the truth that there are frames out there that have design aspects that just work way better with an air shock, but your Nomad just isn't one of them. Keep in mid that is manufactured in way smaller quantities and in-house so they can control the dimensions and quality much better than the mass produced stuff. In a 3 year span you will have spent almost as much on your X2 than an elevensix with rebuild and repair and come near the performance(considering you take care of your shocks). In the long the $1200 isn't as bad as it seems(its still a bunch) Again try one on the nomad....WOW!!!!!!!
  • 1 0
 @KUNTHER: hi, I'm thinking about getting one! Is it really as good as people say and did you have any problems after months of use? I trust customer service is awesome tho if there is any problem right?
  • 1 0
 this comment didn't age well did it? anyway naah x2 compared to push is like 60% max. i've had both
  • 44 3
 I sold my kids to a strange man from Asia, but worth it for the trick suspension
  • 55 2
 I bought some kids on the internet posing as a strange man from Asia. Second worst drunk purchase I ever made.
  • 9 0
 @Ozziefish: jesus what was the first?
  • 3 0
 @csermonet: Ssshhh... We really don't want to know, do we?

@Ozziefish: Do they keep up as a replacement rear shock? Sure this must be the most intelligent rear suspension you've ever had. It may be up to stubborn level intelligent though, willing to help you OTB whenever they can Wink .
  • 48 6
 I can't even care about bike parts right now.. Frown
  • 24 2
 RIP Stevie
  • 38 3
 I'm holding out for the copper-colored steampunk edition.
  • 31 10
 I've noticed PB seems to never give a bad 'review' to any of this top-end shit.
And I've also noticed they never seem to compare top-shelf items that they've previously 'reviewed' to/against one-another.
Like clock-work, the latest piece from somebody will pop up on here, they'll 'review' it, they'll claim it does what it's designed to do MAGNIFICENTLY, gloss-over things it doesn't( "an 'Enduro' shock isn't meant to climb, but this thing still does an admirable job getting you to the top despite this"), and they'll pronounce the piece the greatest thing since sex-just like they did with its competitor a month ago etc.
Well, I'm calling you OUT PB.. it's time to act like the honest, journo-centric rag you like to think of yourself as.
I'd(and I'm sure a lot of others would too) like to see a comparison between THIS shock, the Fox X2 air shock, and
the Fox DHX2 coil shock(with of course their SLS).
You can include the Vivid(s) too if you want, as well as the CC coil/air, but I figure since the PUSH and the two Fox shocks
have the latest and greatest technology and engineering built into them, Rock Shox and Cane Creek will prolly need to play catch-up on the next model revision(s).
Won't be hard. All you need to do is compare them in their natural environment(Point straight DOWN HILL), and tell us which one works BEST. Of course price will be a MAJOR factor, 'cuz the people who read your drivel have to PAY for their shocks, thus cost is a HUGE factor. You'll have to decide how much of a role cost plays here, i.e. if the PUSH is better, is it 2-times the price better.
Enough said, now DO IT!
Please...
  • 9 1
 PBy wont do it, wait till NSMB strips one down and compare
  • 16 4
 @YoKev, have you considered that the vast majority of this 'top-end shit' works really well? As far as comparisons go, you must have missed the Float X2 review: www.pinkbike.com/news/fox-float-x2-shock-review-2015.html.

Because rear shocks work differently depending on frame design, the only comparisons I made in this review were to to the shock I had extensive time on. With forks, it's much easier to do a comparison, because there are less variables affecting their performance. Believe me, we're working to increase the number of comparisons we make when possible and feasible - we'll be having more pieces like this: www.pinkbike.com/news/dropper-post-test-review-six-2015.html in the future.
  • 7 4
 @mikekazimer: Maybe you should listen closer to @YoKev, he reads your site as do all the other people that up voted him. He's right to a degree, all your (not you personally) reviews do just claim everything is more awesome than the last. Maybe you guys should stop sucking the bike industries collective dick and go back to the basics that made everybody love this site. Yes, you compared a bunch of droppers, then choose the one that only works with internal cable frames. So what do al the riders do that don't have that? Go buy one, because otherwise your conclusion is useless to them. And as for your Float X2 review you did exactly what Mr @YoKev accused you of. You claim to compare it to the Vivid but in reality just quote what we all could figure out from the manufacturers website that the Fox is 90g lighter (who gives a f*ck on a DH shock about 90g), say that, "they both do their jobs very well" (basically exactly what @YoKev says) and call the Fox, "sportier". Oh great it's sportier! That's what people say about a spoiler on a 1995 Honda Civic.

This is the second time I've seen PB staff get all bent up over user criticism, a while ago somebody commented how it must be so noce for PB staff to travel around and take pics at world class mtb events and the photographer chimed in about how tough his life is and he gets so hot and has to run around all day. Basically every reader after offered to trade jobs with him, he never said a word back. (Boo Hoo I had to run around in the sun watching a mtb race)

The point is that we support your site. If we think you have a cool fun job don't be a dick and pretend you are so hard done by and if we want better reviews that are more review than advertisement than figure it out or we can go read one of the other 1000 mtb websites out there. You represent this website so act like a professional.
  • 5 5
 @mikekazimer: What kind of ambassador of a company calls out it's clients for asking for better product too? Most companies kill for feedback, PB just gets angry when they get it.
  • 6 2
 Easy there @warmerdamj - we're talking about bikes here, remember? I think you're overreacting a bit - I fail do see how saying that "we're working to increase the number of comparisons we make when possible and feasible," shows a lack of professionalism. I'm not going to wade any deeper into this - I hope you get out on a good ride really, really soon.
  • 3 4
 @mikekazimer:
So, I guess if all the 'top-end' shit works 'really well' now days, what reason do you have for reviewing any of it?
And you actually called a shock 'sportier'? What the hell does that mean?
Does it mean that the Vivid is designed more to carry loads of gravel like a truck?
As far as your contention that frame design plays too big of a part in shock testing, well, of course if you test a coil shock with linkage that was designed for an air shock you're gonna have problems, but you're supposed to be 'experts' on the subject. One would think an 'expert' would know which frame to test a given shock on.
I'll even give you one. My '15 951 came with a CC coil, therefore it's reasonable to assume Intense tuned the linkage to work well with coil shocks in general, and the CC in particular-although I called them before I purchased an X2 to find out if I'd have problems, and they said the 951's linkage would work perfectly fine with an air shock, and in my subsequent experience it does. Weighing 245lbs and riding on trails that have more rocks than dirt, and what dirt they do have is covered in braking bumps, I find out pretty quick how well suspension(and brakes work)
I have some experience on the motorcycle side with manufacturers, magazines, and product 'reviewing', and I can tell you this with certainty.
If you have the readership and your reporting and reviews are HONEST, manufacturers will advertise with you regardless of how you rated their product. If they're confident in it, they know sooner or later it will win a shoot-out, or 'comparo'(a term I personally detest, so please don't ever use it), and if it happens to be the best of the crop that year, you won't have a problem stating in another product's review that yours works better.
Lastly, your post came across as though you feel your reviews are perfectly fine the way they are, i.e. there's no room for improvement, so I'll leave you with this;
Becoming complacent or stagnant is the best way to become irrelevant.
  • 5 0
 @YoKev: The reason for reviewing any product is to help people make educated, informed decisions on whether or not a product is worth purchasing. My point in saying that the majority of the high end products out there work very well was that there's a valid reason you don't see as many negative reviews as you do positive, and it's not due to any lack of honesty on our part - it's because we're lucky to live in a time where there are more highly refined products out there than ever. Do some of them have issues? Of course, and when they do we point them out.

As for calling a shock 'sportier', if you read that review, you'll see that what I wrote read, "However, I will say that I ended up preferring the feel of the Float X2 on the Nomad over the Vivid. It felt “sportier,” for lack of a better term, with just as much suppleness as the Vivid at the beginning of its stroke, but a slightly more supportive feel deeper in its travel, a trait that comes in handy when putting the power down to pedal through rough sections of trail."

We're always looking for ways to improve, and all of us here at Pinkbike are constantly striving to produce the best reviews and content possible. Rest assured that there's no sense of complacency or that we're resting on our laurels. Cheers.
  • 16 2
 Mate has one, has smashed all his PRs on day one, and he's much more confident on the bike. He reckons between (he has both) the push or wide carbon rims he'd take the shock every time.
  • 18 3
 That's actually a great reference point. I'm sure enough people have spend $1000 on a sale set of carbon wheels. This seems to make more sense.
  • 2 3
 @bishopsmike: Agreed. Great comparison. Your shock shouldn't go bust on a rocky landing either like rims occasionally do.
  • 3 5
 @bishopsmike: I'd like to see how that plays out, back to back blind comparison between an X2 set up with wide carbon wheels VS the same bike on a custom 11/6 running 500 dollar wheels. Me thinks most people will notice flex and weight difference in the wheels WAY faster than a subtle change in suspension kinematics?

Customs nice, but most shocks just aren't that bad... Definitely some props to PUSH, without them and other 3rd party tech/tune pushing suspension tech they way that have been we might have waited much longer for all the amazing damper tech we have today!!! Smile
  • 2 3
 @stiingya: He came of a Monarch, if you made the test stock bike A with push vs stock bike B with Carbon wheels that'd be a better test imo.
Once you're up at X2 pricing you're most of the way to a Push, it's like choosing Hope over King for your carbon wheelset.
  • 2 0
 @Clarkeh: The other problem is that not every bike suits a coil shock, some might be very hard to keep from blowing through the travel with a coil. The wheels give the same amount of improvement regardless of what bike they're on.
  • 4 0
 @groghunter:

This is not a problem, as you can't buy this shock for a bike it doesn't suit.. You don't buy an Elevensix from your LBS and then hope it will work with your bike. Darren only offers the shock with valving specific to certain frames, and does not offer it for suspension designs that won't benefit from a coil, or have not been proven to work based on extensive testing by Push.

So yes, you are right on point of fact that new wheels can benefit *any* bike, but it's not true to say that someone could fit an Elevensix and not benefit from a performance improvement.
  • 1 2
 @mr-magou: That fine when you first buy it. what if you upgrade to a new frame, & it doesn't suit a elevensix? (I mean right now, your wheels probably won't fit the new frame either because standards: aren't, but at some point hub spacing will probably calm down again.)
  • 18 3
 @mikekazimer: "full disclosure: this is pure conjecture - I only own one button up shirt, and it has short sleeves"


respect.
  • 9 1
 The suit analogy is pretty good. Suits and shocks are designed to fit people in the middle of the bell curve, and you can be very happy with your purchase. But if you are towards the limits of standard design, you need to go custom. And speaking from experience, your first tailored suit marks the end of buying off the rack, which makes a shock like this a scary proposition.
  • 12 2
 I sent my Fox Van R into Push for the mx tune where they did a complete rebuild and added hsc and lsc adjustments as the Van R only has rebound adjustments. Just wanted to say that Push is legit and definitely worth the $. Original shock was so noisy and I could never get the support I wanted. I sent it in and could not believe the difference- silent! So much more support. Climbs way better and decends like a beast. Way happy! Thanks Push!
  • 1 0
 I have a fox van R as well. How much did they charge you?
  • 4 1
 @cwoodside4: I paid 294 USD which is not bad at all considering you are getting a brand new shock. I have an enduro evo so the rear shock options on that bike are very limited. This option was the cheapest and even if I had more options I would have still sent it in after seeing how good of a job they did. They tune it exactly the way you want it. Just fill out a form with your weight, what bike you have, and a description of your riding style/terrain and they will dial it in. Well worth it!
  • 1 0
 @cheeverbrent: thank you so much!
  • 13 3
 Just occurred to me, obviously I'm not in the target market for this product anyway, (Unless I win the Lotto!), but I'd be totally scared to throw 1200 bucks at a shock on the cusp of frames no longer being made to fit it!

But hopefully they can swap the ends to new standards and adjust the length along with travel enough during the 125 dollar service to keep the shock running into the FUTURE...
  • 9 6
 If I won the lottery i'd pay someone to ride my bike. Ain't got time for that.
  • 3 0
 If I'm not mistaken, push can set the shock up for different frames and sizes. So you wouldn't be out much more than a service.
  • 11 3
 Yeeessss, So many dials to fiddle with!!!

If I could afford it I would definitely screw with/up all of them tup
  • 11 6
 I've had an Avalanche shock and guess what, Craig was able to change the sizing of the shock for use on another frame and custom tuned the shock once again. What Push is doing is great, but it kills me when articles are written stating Push is doing something new and revolutionary when Craig has been doing this for ages.
  • 4 2
 Just curious, where in this article does it state that Push is doing anything new or revolutionary when it comes to resizing a shock to a different bike?
  • 5 0
 Here is what most people miss about the Push shock and why an X2 or Ohlins doesn't compare. The Push is custom BUILT not TUNED. They have different valves that they use based on rider preferences and aren't just turning the dials on a standard setup.

In addition it does not have to be setup with a Climb/Descend mode. Mine is setup with Trail/DH modes instead and even then the only time I use the Trail mode is on a 20% paved climb locally.

I understand that the price puts it out of the range for a lot of people, but it is no different than comparing a Raptor to an '89 Toyota. Yes they are both pickup trucks, but very few people would choose the Toyota if they cost the same.
  • 7 3
 After experiencing terrible durability and poor initial stroke feel on consecutive DBair's (standard on a Ibis HDR and CS on my Megatrail) I decided to take the plunge and go for the ElevenSix; I lost 50 lbs over 5 months in order to get to the maximum supported riding weight of 210lb for the Megatrail. Obviously my weight was a contributing factor in the experiences that I had with the Cane Creek dampers, and I will admit that at my current weight of 200 lb I am probably a lot easier on my suspension and bike in general, but the ElevenSix has provided next level performance and has continued to perform for the 4 months (400+ miles and 75+ hours) that I have had it.

If this shock gives me 12-18 months of consistent performance before I send it in for a rebuild then in my mind the price tag is already justified; I have spent far too much time off the bike due to catastrophic damper failures and waiting for the resulting warranty repair (which Cane Creek and GarageWorks were always VERY good and handling, I will give them that!).

I get it, this is an expensive and boutique item that is not for everyone, let alone every frame. I work part time at a bike shop and was able to get a good deal on the damper, which definitely helped with the decision; but after experiencing the ElevenSIx firsthand I would be more than happy to pay full retail for it.
  • 9 1
 Props to the weight loss. Good on ya!!
  • 2 0
 A 11.6 paired with an MRP fork, interesting combo. Have you tried other forks and settled on the MRP? Or is the MRP the only fork you've spent significant riding time on?

Appreciate the informative post on the 11.6 though. And most definitely props on the weight loss!
  • 1 0
 @csermonet:

I have not had too much time on the latest and greatest from other manufacturers; I have a couple rides on a Pike RC (160mm 29") and my previous fork was a pre-charger Lyrik (Solo-Air DH RC2 @ 170mm). I also owned a 2010 Van 36 RC2 @ 160mm of travel that came on my Trek Scratch. So I can't give much in the ways of useful comparisons, but I definitely preferred my Stage to the Pike RC that I rode.

I will say that my bike as is feels nicely balanced; ie, the Stage (170mm travel) is keeping up well with the ElevenSix ( I generally ride the bike in Trail mode, so 150mm of travel out back ). Externally adjustable air-spring volume via Ramp Control (as apposed to bottomless tokens) and the fact that my 170mm Stage has the same Axle to Crown as a 160mm Pike were some of the features that pulled me away from Fox/RS and others.

I did manage to break the low-speed compression knob (leaving me stuck in "climb") while on a ride; it was partially my fault, but I called MRP and I had replacement parts in the mail in a coupe days free of charge.
  • 1 0
 @shizzon: Thanks for the reply. How would you compare the performance of the Stage to the Lyrik you were riding before? I have a Lyrik in the same spec so am curious to hear your opinion on that.
  • 1 0
 @csermonet:

I prefer the Stage over the Lyrik in pretty much every area, the Stage definitely has a softer/smoother initial stroke when the air spring is properly set up and the small bump compliance is quite a bit better. Oddly enough, despite the smaller stanchion diameter (34 vs 35 on the lyrik) and axle (15mm vs. 20mm), I never perceived much difference in chassis stiffness. I remember reading something posted on another forum that surmised that the Stage's impressive chassis rigidity comes largely from an increase in bushing overlap when compared to its competitors, but I do have not confirmed this. I find the Ramp control and slow speed compression combination to be very useful in adjusting the fork/bike for the trail of the day, even more so than the High/Low speed compression adjustment of the Lyrik RC2.
  • 5 1
 all the reviews done for a rear shock - "the most immediately noticeable trait was just how much more grip the bike seemed to have. The rear end felt glued to the ground, smoothly tracking over every little nuance in the terrain"
  • 4 1
 There are details like the hyperco spring as being advertised as a lifetime spring, pretty sure Fox even admits the SLS springs should be replaced at least once a year. Also I've seen (not ridden) one of these up close, those set screws don't bite directly into the threads on the shock body. Two details not mentioned worth sharing.
  • 3 0
 The thing I'd hate most about updating to a new frame would be that so many components still in great condition just don't fit or won't work properly on the new frame. It adds up quickly! So this shock should give some piece of mind that even though is seems expensive now, you will at least be able to transfer it to your next frame. In an era where mountainbike components become obsolete within a few years hence it becomes harder and harder to justify spending that extra buck on a Chris King for life headset, it is refreshing to see a company that stands behind their product no matter if your next bike has a different linkage, different stroke, different length or has gone metric (whatever that means). That should give some piece of mind to spend that kind of money on the shock. In this context you may actually consider it less expensive than any other rear shock produced in a Western country that won't fit your next bike.
  • 3 1
 I love mine, fitted on a e29 with avy cartridge in my pike, I've had this setup almost 6 months and it still leaves me speechless after overcooking an insanely rough section of trail that should have sent me OTB, such a complient set up the bike literally doesn't slow down through chunder, just maintains momentum with no deflecting. Huge fan!!
  • 2 0
 Hmm... that $1200 will buy me an Ohlins shock for my motorcycle, so I will stick with the Avalanche Chubie that dampens as well as new after years of abuse. PUSH is legit, make no mistake- I've run FOX products through them in the past, and the reality of a suspension specialist is this: you can take them a brandy-new shock and it will be better when they are done with it, that is all they do and they are the best at it. What Avalanche was able to do with my last-century Boxxers and make them buttery awesome still blows my mind. Those who scoff at the dollar signs should experience for themselves, I can only imagine what PUSH has coming in the future...
  • 1 0
 Hopefully an air shock!
  • 1 0
 skidrumr-
I'm thinking the [main] reason for the huge cost of the PUSH shock is the extremely limited run. Fox sold out their entire 2016 production runs within a week of receiving them, and are now awaiting their 2017 model(s)-with the 'climb' switch. Selling that many obviously allows them to spread the R&D and production cost over much more units, and prolly even allows for a higher profit margin. I don't know how many PUSH sells, but I bet they're not even a blip on Fox's radar.
  • 7 2
 Available for dh applications soon?
  • 9 5
 Make it for the Capra.

That thing is seriously bada$$, and the review forum over on MTBR is epic.
  • 2 1
 Jeepers @mikekazimer how much preload do you have on that thing? Mine is set for one turn and I can barely see any thread above the preload adjuster.

Totally stoked and have to say although it feels ace going DH I truly notice how the wheel sticks on tech climbs. Cleaning stuff I have never even tried before.
  • 4 1
 One turn. There will be varying amounts of thread showing depending on spring weight and size.
  • 1 0
 Have you had any issues with it, reliability wise, etc?
  • 1 0
 This sounds like a great purchase if you live in North America. Sadly, those in other continents will also need to factor in shipping price and shipping time whenever it's sent for service. That, and the usual forex woes that come with purchasing anything overseas.
  • 1 0
 I don't know if it's mainly the mechanics of the shock, switching to coil, etc, or the fact that the shock is tuned to the individual rider, but this is an incredible shock that I'd recommend to anyone. For me, as a bigger guy (220lb), I think the biggest factor is the custom tuning so I'm finally on a shock that's not under-damped. My Nomad was a pretty incredible bike with the stock Monarch, but it really was a night-and-day difference adding the Elevensix.
  • 1 0
 @mikekazimer presumably they had you give your custom input for how you ride. can you maybe give some insight on what that process was like? what were the two valvings you asked for? etc

also is there any way to tune ramp up on something like this? i have spent most my mountain bike time on air shocks and really like the ramp up.
  • 2 0
 The grey lever doesn't switch between two valves, but between two circuits. And the rebound knob doesn't control rebound for both valves, but controls rebound for both circuits!
  • 6 3
 "What we does if we need that extra push over the cliff, you know what we do? 11"
  • 3 1
 It would be great to see a PUSH shock on a World Cup downhill bike...... Although, I doubt they would need a lever to change setting mid-run
  • 3 1
 Probably the same chance as seeing an Ohlins. Ohlins don't pay pros, maybe Push don't either. I assume the likes of Bruni and Brosnan do back to back testing with different shocks to just see if one is faster than the other.
But like a lot of things in life, I suspect the fast riders would be fast on whatever they're given. Whereas I try and justify spending $ to make me faster. Well that's what I tell my missus.
  • 6 2
 Actually a climb lever might have been handy for the last part of the Cairns track...
  • 2 1
 @ChazzMichaelMichaels: Yeah
I'm super keen to see how this BREW Nitro shox that Mike Levy is going to be riding in Whistler goes.....

Because I'll be buying the 11.6, or the BREW depending on its review (and availability)
  • 2 1
 You never know the big boys paid them to design it to look like their sponsors one.
  • 1 0
 @chyu: Aaron gwin used maxxis shortys at Lourdes, it's a dick move but it doesn't nessecarily have to be from your sponsor if you're a big enough name...
  • 1 0
 @piersgritten:
Actually, it's not a 'dick move' at all.
Racers have been using the products that work the best over their sponsor's for years and year.
The American Honda Superbike team was sponsored by Jardine(exhaust) back in the early 2k's,
so they ran Jardine stickers on their Akrapovic exhaust.
Nicky Hayden was sponsored by Joe Rocket, so on his Daytona boots he replaced the 'Daytona' patches with 'Joe Rocket' ones.
My friends at Attack Performance(Kawasaki team) were sponsored by Arrow exhaust, but since Arrow actually TOOK power from the ZX6, Stanboli designed his own head-pipes and follow-on tubing, and ran Arrow silencers with it.
Sponsors give you product and/or money to DISPLAY their logo, and NOT their competitors.
Racers would be doing themselves and their sponsors a disservice not to give themselves every chance to finish as high as possible in the running order, therefore NO serious racer/team would EVER put themselves in a position to use inferior parts, thus their sponsor contract will rarely state that they HAVE to use sponsor's parts.
They just have to display their sponsor's logos
  • 3 0
 Is the increase in small bump sensitivity large enough to run less sag when switching from air to coil?
  • 2 0
 And therefor make up for the lack of progressiveness and not worry about bottoming out
  • 2 1
 Got one on my patrol carbon. Dropped PRs all over the place. Unsure on how much the climb/switch really helps. But I bought the tranny to rip down hills not be strava p spandex.
  • 2 0
 The switch helps as much as you make it help. Mine's not really a climb switch--I've got one side set up for smoother flow trails/jump lines and one for gnarlier stuff. Flipping the switch in my case makes a noticeable difference. The gnarly mode makes my Nomad feel like a DH bike.
  • 4 1
 Since it's made in the states does it come in metric sizes or only imperial measurements?
  • 1 0
 It's available for a specific list of bikes. They take care of the measurements.
  • 5 1
 They'll make it in metric, but list it in imperial just to trigger angry europeans. Then finally they'll give in, and list it in decimal kilometers.
  • 4 1
 No doubt technologically it is probably excellent but it looks ugly as fu*k.... and in silver.....bleauhhhh!
  • 2 0
 Can pb please do a review of the ellevensix vs avalanche woodie vs ext storia vs fox x2 etc - would love to know what the best coil shock money can buy is
  • 2 0
 Been riding mine now for a month or so... It's so good I kinda feel like I'm cheating! Worth every penny.
  • 1 0
 I just got an 11/6 from TF tuned in the UK and it's now on my Spesh E29. This is by far the best rear shock I have ridden so far but also the most costly.
  • 1 0
 I'm planning to get one! Speaking to TFT they say it's the best suspension product ever. Is it that good? In what ways? Any issues with it ever in terms of reliability, etc? Ta
  • 3 1
 Different Strokes for different folks........

I'd buy one if I had an enduro rad bike but I'm a trail rider ????
  • 1 0
 Good to see a fellow trail rider not turning into a baaaaaaaaa. ;-d
  • 2 2
 was the stroke pun intended
  • 3 0
 I dunno push.. I just dont know.
  • 1 0
 Try one. You'll know.
  • 1 0
 @DrPete: can I have 1200 us then pleasèèê?
  • 4 5
 $1200... eeek, they better figure out a way to get that price down, made in Murika or not... they won't sell very many at that kind of price. here's a thought, outsource it to CHiWan. I don't know, motorcycle shock don't hardly cost that much...
  • 5 2
 They're currently selling more than they can make.
  • 2 0
 Which is how many? And that's not a wise crack...wondering. ..how many units have they sold/made
  • 1 0
 @PedalShopLLC: probably shouldn't say. Out of respect, I won't list there capacity, but they were expanding the last time I was there.
  • 1 0
 @wetbed0:


yeah, lots of sources I buy from never disclose how many units they make or how many units they even have on hand --- some will just post on-line info like a YES or NO hat any given item is in stock.. some will do things like 5+ or if they have less than 5 units, they'll show how many. kinda weird why some are hush hush about their numbers, some aren't. some of the places I buy from which I would consider a huge company. I'm often surprised how many items they'll bring in at any given. often much lower than I would think for being the size they are.
  • 2 0
 @PedalShopLLC: Yeah, I know what you mean. I work in the industry and some companies are pretty surprising. Then you get an oem order from sram, and that's a whole different animal.
  • 4 1
 This is a really weak review. There are about 5 releveant sentences.
  • 1 0
 I can see real value in this. However at 17 years old i cant justify it. Maybe next year....
  • 5 3
 This shock gets me all wound up.
  • 2 1
 I coiled back into my chair too.
  • 1 1
 Anyone going to spring for it?
  • 1 1
 I'll wait for the hype to dampen down.
  • 6 4
 1. I have this shock 2. It is amazing 3. It is worth the money
  • 12 7
 1.We don't have this shock 2.it is too expensive 3.we believe you got paid to say it. That's the average online logic.
  • 1 0
 Have to agree. Maybe if you're the standard 160lb rider that everyone damps their shocks for the difference isn't as big and you can just grab a coil off the shelf, but this really is an amazing shock.
  • 1 1
 I had my rear shock tuned by Push a few years ago and they just did a perfect job. I can imagine how perfect is that expensive little monster.
  • 1 0
 Let's trade my bike with push shock....not. Crazy pricey.
  • 1 0
 1200 bucks lol i will stick with my rockshox
  • 2 2
 I had an Ohlins on my demo . An 11/6 on my e29.
Demo has since been sold !!
  • 1 0
 @marconi how did you fit it to the E29 - do 11/6 do a custom mount for the e29 or did you have to source an aftermarket yoke?
  • 1 0
 I don't have issue with the price, i am just not buying it.
  • 1 0
 Awesome! Yes, expensive but a real killer that is!
  • 3 1
 Endur-bro
  • 1 0
 costs more than my current bike????
  • 1 0
 The free conversion story isn't true, but they are fantastic shocks!
  • 1 0
 and won't fit any bikes, that i have.
  • 2 3
 With a $1200 price tag but not metric sized? Oops...it may be obsolete tomorrow.
  • 6 0
 Why does that matter? It's not an off-the-shelf purchase. Every 11-6 is custom made for your specific bike
  • 1 1
 1200$ ? Why not 2000$ or 200$ ? Big Grin
  • 2 2
 Set screws are horrible! Get that atrocity away from those threads.
  • 2 0
 There's a delrin ball between the setscrew and threads.
  • 2 2
 Regardless of whether it is a non-marring set screw there are many more elegant and effective ways to lock threads. Set screws are one of the biggest cop outs in the engineering world.
  • 5 0
 @taquitos: Set Screws work 100% of the time, your other 'elegant' ways don't.
  • 2 1
 @nzandyb: Apparently you haven't used many set screws then. I can guarantee you that they screw threads over as well as many other surfaces that they are used to constrain quite frequently. There is nothing more frustrating then a worn set screw interface because it either gets super sloppy or just plain doesn't work. Not to mention when it comes to locking threads the plastic tipped ones are about as effective as loctite, which isn't very.
  • 1 0
 @taquitos: I've used the Set Screw on this shock.
  • 1 1
 just wait then haha
  • 1 1
 Duh there are slits down the threaded section you lock the screw into, you don't just lock it in any position on the threads lol
  • 1 0
 I've got another suggestion for all you set screw lovers who are holding on tight to days where machining technology was worse. Take it out altogether and see if you notice a difference.
  • 3 2
 But it ain't metric!
  • 1 0
 yeah what about the new metric standard!??????
  • 1 1
 Yankee should make it in China it would be worth a big 75$
  • 1 2
 Twice the price of a CCDB and looks like someone knocked it up in their garden shed, no thanks Push
  • 2 3
 not worth it for a rider of my ability Frown
  • 2 0
 I'm not much of a rider and it instilled quite a bit of confidence in my riding... Not like I'll be on the EWS podium now or anything, but when things are more stable/predictable they're far more fun.
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