Review: Cane Creek Kitsuma Air Shock

Feb 10, 2021 at 18:45
by Mike Kazimer  
Cane Creek Kitsuma review


The Kitsuma shock is the newest addition to Cane Creek's lineup, building on the framework that was laid by the previous Double Barrel Air and Coil models.

The shock's basic layout is the same – it still uses a twin-tube design and still features externally adjustable high- and low-speed compression and rebound, but now there's no need to bust out a mini-tool for trailside tuning sessions. Instead, four golden dials make tool-free adjustments possible, and there's also a three-position lever that's used to firm up the shock for climbing.
Kitsuma Details
• Twin-tube design
• Air and coil options available
• Adjustments: high and low-speed rebound and compression, 3 position climb lever
• Weight: 600 grams (210 x 55mm)
• MSRP: $700 USD
www.canecreek.com

The shock is available in an eyelet mounted version in 210, 230, and 250mm lengths, or a trunnion mounted version in 185, 205, or 225mm lengths. The air version reviewed here is priced at $700 USD, while the coil option is $670 USD, without a spring.

Cane Creek Kitsuma review
No tools are required to adjust the high and low-speed rebound and compression.
Cane Creek Kitsuma review
There are three positions for the climb switch - open, firm, and really, really firm.

What's New?

Cane Creek did more than just slap some shiny new dials on the previous Double Barrel and call it good – several updates were applied to the internals as well. The shaft diameter has been increased to 9.5mm on both air and coil options, and there's a new main piston design, a new oil seal head, and larger shaft quad rings for improved reliability.

Externally, the reservoir tube length has been trimmed by 16mm, and the air can now has a tapered shape that helps ensure the Kitsuma will fit on as many bikes as possible.

One thing that hasn't changed is the fact that Cane Creek wants riders to take their shock to an authorized service center when it needs a rebuild – they unfortunately still don't offer any manuals or instructional videos that would allow home mechanics to take matters into their own hands.


Cane Creek Kitsuma review
The Kitsuma's stroke ramp-up is adjusted by removing the air can and adding or removing rubber spacers.

Adjustments

Low-speed rebound and compression each get their own smaller dial, with 11 possible positions, or almost one full revolution - the range for the dial is from about 5 o'clock to 7 o'clock. The fact that it's not a complete rotation makes it possible to quickly see where your settings are, similar to the volume dial on a stereo. The larger two dials provide high-speed rebound and compression adjustments, with 14 possible positions, or two full rotations.

The external adjustments are a handy change, but I was a little frustrated by the difference in the amount of force it took to turn each dial. The low-speed compression and high-speed rebound dials took a decent amount of effort to turn, while the other two rotated much more smoothly.

My ideal scenario would have all of the dials rotate smoothly, with a distinct 'click' between each position. That's not the case here, and while it's nice to be able to have easy access to all those adjustments, there's still room for improvement.

I don't have any gripes about the climb lever – the middle position firms things up nicely for off-road riding by closing off the low-speed compression circuit, and the firmest position closes off both the high- and low-speed compression circuits to lock the shock out almost completely, a setting that's best suited for riding on pavement or smooth fire roads.

Reducing the air volume to increase the amount of end-stroke ramp-up is a relatively easy procedure. Once the air is let out of the shock all you need to do is remove an o-ring and then slide the air can down. Cane Creek provides rubber volume spacers that can be trimmed to meet a rider's needs. I'm still partial to the plastic volume reducers that Fox or RockShox use, but Cane Creek's solution does the trick, albeit with a more homemade feel to it.


Cane Creek Kitsuma review


Performance

A Commencal Meta TR served as the test sled for the Kitsuma over the course of the last three months, with several rounds of back-to-back testing added into the mix. The Meta uses a 210 x 55mm shock for its 140mm of travel, which I inflated to 150psi for 25% sag.

After my first shakedown ride, I installed one volume reducer to increase the amount of end stroke ramp-up and ended up sticking with that setting for the rest of the test period. I was still able to use full travel when necessary, but there wasn't any harshness when I reached the end of the stroke.

Although Cane Creek touts the extra-wide range of adjustments available on the Kitsuma, I did find myself running into some limitations. I had to run the low-speed rebound fully open to get the shock to return fast enough for my tastes, and I likely would have sped things up even further if possible. According to Cane Creek, this has been adjusted, and the latest run of shocks should give riders access to faster rebound speeds. That change should also help make the high speed rebound dial a little easier to turn, which would take care of one of my gripes.

I also ended up running the low-speed compression all the way open, and at times it still felt like I was a click or two away from where I wanted to be. Bigger hits and higher speed impacts were dispatched without any trouble; it was at slower speeds in slippery conditions when I found myself wanting the rear wheel to get out of the way a little more easily. Granted, I'm not the heaviest rider out there at 160 pounds, and I'd imagine bigger riders will likely have a wider range of adjustments to work with.

Overall, while the on-trail feel was a little more heavily damped than I would have preferred, I did appreciate the Kitsuma's composure on rougher, chunkier trails. The Meta TR is really an enduro bike disguised as a trail bike, and the Kitsuma felt well suited to its trail manners, remaining consistent and predictable no matter how long the descent.

As far as reliability goes, I haven't reached the 100-hour mark yet, but so far there haven't been any issues. It's still operating smoothly, free of any disconcerting squelching noises or excess oil seepage.

Cane Creek Kitsuma
Cane Creek Kitsuma
2021 Fox Float X2
2020 Fox Float X2


How Does It Compare?

The Kitsuma took the place of the 2021 Fox Float X2 that came stock on the Meta TR, a shock that I've been extremely happy with. Did the Kitsuma offer anything that the X2 didn't? Time to find out.

Weight: The Kitsuma gets the point here, with a weight that's 50 grams lighter than the Float X2.

Price: The Float X2 comes in at $30 USD less than the Kitsuma.

Adjustments: Both shocks offer the same number and type of external adjustments, but I was happier with the range and on-trail feel of the X2 compared to the Kitsuma. Yes, two hex keys are required to adjust the X2, but I actually prefer having clearly defined 'clicks' and being able to easily keep track of my settings. I know that's not the case for everyone, so if you'd rather have tool-free dials the Kitsuma might be the ticket.

Fitment: The tapered air can on the Kitsuma does allow for more frame clearance compared to the Float X2, which means that compatibility issues are less likely and, in some cases, it'll also provide a little extra water bottle clearance.

Climb switch: Larger air shocks like the Kitsuma and X2 tend to be a little more eager to sink into their travel during pedaling, which is why it's nice to have a climb switch within easy reach. I was happy with the middle position on both shocks – it firmed things up enough to minimize bobbing while still providing traction for tricker sections of trail. The Kitsuma does have that third extra-firm position, one that I didn't end up using that much, but Cane Creek has you covered if you're on the hunt for a DH-worthy shock that has a fully locked out position.

Bottom out resistance: Both shocks handle big hits well, but I'm giving this one to the Float X2. Its bottom-out bumper lets it sink deep into its travel and then recover without missing a beat, similar to the way a trophy truck sticks to the ground when it lands and then continues onward at mach chicken.




Pros

+ Air can and reservoir shape provides more room for frame and water bottle clearance.
+ No tools required to access most adjustments
+ Consistent, well damped performance

Cons

- Low-speed compression range may not be wide enough for lighter riders
- Some of the dials are hard to turn, and the indexing is hard to feel




Pinkbike's Take

bigquotesThe Kitsuma does a great job of muting bigger hits, especially on high speed, chunky terrain, and it offers a wide array of effective adjustments that are easy to access. For constant tinkerers, having all of those potential settings at their fingertips is going to be a big plus. I do think that the execution of the new dials could be better, and the range of those adjustments may not be large enough for lighter riders - given the price tag I'd like all of the details to be taken care of.  Mike Kazimer








Author Info:
mikekazimer avatar

Member since Feb 1, 2009
1,716 articles

222 Comments
  • 120 4
 I can definitely think of some 'hilarious' people that would get great pleasure twisting all of the dials while I go off for a piss and leave my bike un-guarded. (Of course if I had a mate get one, I actually WOULD be hilarious for doing it to them.)
  • 36 1
 Just like taking out the drain plug of your mates whitewater kayak before launching down river. #stinkeye
  • 21 3
 This is the MTB equivalent of sharpie'ing a penis on your passed out buddy's face after a night of hard drinking.
  • 50 10
 Mate wound down my lyrik u-turn to save space in the trailer (allegedly). 30 seconds into the descent I had a broken toe. Don't fock around with people's bikes.
  • 43 5
 How far into the woods are you all walking to take a piss? I'm usually leaning on my bike as I take a piss. You all afraid someone will see your wee wee?
  • 5 0
 @BenPea: the Bike Karma gods are always watching and playbacks is gonna hurt just when you're not expecting it.
  • 4 0
 @bsarfino: oh man I remember doing that then I got a piranha with no drain hole so it doesn't happen to me...
  • 14 0
 @alxrmrs: at first read I thought you said “sharpening”. ????
  • 5 1
 @fartymarty: Never rely on the universe to have your back.
  • 7 3
 @bsarfino: I have filled my bestie mate’s kayak (before numerous expeditions around the world) with bricks, frozen sausages, porn, Jackie chan DVDs, industrial strength detergent, bicarbonate of soda and a bowl of green food colouring to name a few. After 20 years he still falls for it
  • 57 1
 Swapping AXS reverb levers between the bikes of rich friends mid ride is also fun.
  • 1 0
 So it takes one to know one Smile ?
  • 2 0
 @RadBartTaylor: I can’t afford anything that fancy
  • 4 0
 @CustardCountry: dead fish was a classic too, summer sun nake it smell so bad.
  • 1 0
 @SlodownU: Louis ck?
  • 5 1
 Back in the day of QR seat clamps a common prank between my riding buddies was a undo someone's seat clamp QR just enough that the post would slip as soon as they sat on it, but not enough so that they would notice immediately.
  • 2 0
 @bigtim If your mate didn’t know you messed with his shock and no one laughed - who is the fool?
  • 28 2
 I like to leak all the air out of my friends' shocks when they're not looking, stick tacks in their tires, and rub gravel on their stanchions. Hilarious every time! Only thing better is loosening the bolts on their stem and removing the axle just before we head off. Good times.
  • 2 0
 @PAmtbiker: back in the day of seat qr levers I used to sneak up on my buddies and open it up during a steep fire road climb. That and hitting the shifter to drop them into granny gear. We used to have three rings up front kids! Aaahhh.... Good times. Also I'm old af...
  • 13 0
 @SlodownU: I pee on my bike to make sure everyone knows it's mine.
  • 2 0
 @garrisond5: ah yes the old shift into the granny trick... Now I suppose the equivalent is just dropping someone's seat as you ride by
  • 7 1
 @bsarfino: or taking the drain plug out of my mates Audi RS6.
  • 5 0
 The absolute classic of cycling beside someone and slamming their brake on a fireroad climb
  • 5 1
 @ybsurf: Used to work with my step-brother, I threw him into a container with a few hundred dead fish once, he wasn't happy.
Also put a dead otter I found in his toilet.
  • 3 0
 @CustardCountry: why isn't this top comment
  • 3 0
 @ybsurf: @CustardCountry sounds like we would all get along, once the tires were pumped back up.
  • 8 0
 @Losvar: Siri: show me the most Norwegian comment
  • 74 0
 Cane Creek... Give us manuals
  • 143 0
 Yeah, and wheelies.
  • 8 0
 I'd love it if they threw in some nose manuals too
  • 6 6
 A deliberate act to get you to pay through the nose at one of their service centers possibly?
But then i guess if you can afford to pay for one of these new and don't inherit it on a second hand bike then you can afford to send it off to be serviced.
  • 53 9
 @harbourdasher: A reminder that their service center is employing good people in a local community to do skilled labor for a fair wage.
  • 14 1
 Agreed. No home service no deal.
  • 12 0
 Most people simply don't have the tools (vacuum fill machine and nitrogen fill needle) to do the job right. For the 1 rider who does there would be 10 that would mess it up...and then they would still have to send it in for service!
  • 6 0
 @astro99: that doesn’t seem bad to me, one person will be able to do it and the rest will have to go to a shop, the shop won’t loose out.
  • 3 0
 @astro99: Vacuum fill machine. Damn you, brain.
  • 12 2
 @benasquith: the issue is that those who mess it up will ride it and it will feel like sh#t and they'll be out and about saying that the shock is sh#t while not admitting that they made it feel like sh#t
  • 5 0
 I agree 100%. I have the inline coil and need to ship my shock like 250km to get it serviced because nobody in the local area can service it.
  • 6 5
 @Lokirides: that's correct. We have talked ourselves into working for what corporations have suppressed wages to be, not what a fair wage actually is.

Pay people what their time, energy & skills deserve, not what some person who paid $650 "thinks" someone else is worth because of corporate greed and stock buybacks that feed false earnings and give CEO's huge bonuses.
  • 8 1
 @astro99: And in Cane Creek's defense, they do tend to provide pretty good instructions for the types of jobs that most home mechanics could do and would have the tools to do, i.e. Lower leg service on Helms. Plus, speaking of the Helm, the fact that travel adjustment and air volume adjustments are built in tells me a lot about their view of their customers too.
  • 11 7
 @astro99: That's BS, these shocks are virtually identical to several other shocks on the market and THOSE brands offer instructions on how to rebuild them (e.g. the X2). There is absolutely not reason to not offer the end user the option to rebuild.

I've rebuilt several DB Air shocks with seals purchased from theoringstore. Frankly, with the reputation that Cane Creek has for rear shocks, I just stopped buying them. Why would I want to spend two weeks off my bike in the middle of summer when my shock blows out, when I can buy literally any other brand and have spare parts sitting on my work bench and be back up in less than a day?
  • 1 0
 piss and manuals ! #PEACEnWHEELiES
  • 5 3
 @ungod: Well, if you're like me, it's because I can ride a mountain bike on pavement less than 5 miles to their front door. It's about 7 1/2 miles to Fox Factory. If I took the back way, it's right at 16 miles to Ohlins.

If I so much as lift a finger to work on my suspension, crap is gonna hit the fan like cow pies in a wood chipper.

Good on you for working on your own stuff. Welcome to the club I can never join. Beer
  • 1 0
 @astro99: Hell, most shops in Nor Cal don't have those tools either! My Helm and DB IL have been awesome, and as the reviewer says, they really mute the hits well.
  • 1 0
 @astro99: but at least maybe a local shop could do it.
  • 42 4
 I’ve got one... feels fantastic. So much negativity for something so functional. I highly recommend this shock. Charmer.
  • 14 27
flag fullendurbro (Feb 23, 2021 at 9:56) (Below Threshold)
 Is it negativity? Or is it the opinion of someone who's spent more time on different products than anyone in the comments section could compete with? Sorry, but I'm going to trust a PB editor over u/chuckobike.
  • 38 0
 @fullendurbro: I completely see value in what pb editors have to say... and I do like Kazimer’s reviews as he paints a clear picture (never really getting hyperbolic about how amazing something is). I was referring to the comments thus far, and I’m speaking from experience. Worked as a rat turning wrenches for quite a bit now, and I’ve ridden a fair share of shocks. Simply put, this thing feels rad. Alas - this is a forum and nothing that either of us has to say should be taken to seriously. Just trolls under a bridge!
  • 5 1
 @fullendurbro: could also be that Chuck has a frame with a better suspension design than the meta.
  • 1 0
 @chuckobike: Did you ever ride the DBair? Does it basically feel the same? Personally I really liked the very damped feel that had.
@mikekazimer I'm glad to finally find a proper review of this, it'd be good to see more shock reviews on PB if possible. Can I ask you the same question as above - does it basically feel like a DBair?
  • 5 0
 @chuckobike:" you think this is gonna just be water under the fridge" Ricky trailer park boys
  • 3 0
 @chuckobike: my last two cane CREAK products did fail after a few weeks.
Suspension without a service PDF is just a waste of time for me.
Spare parts are sure rare for that. I dunno why you would want a product of you can't do a simple service your self.
If you riding hard and every week your suspension need service every month or two.
I won't waste time with service centers and DHL...
  • 1 0
 @Serpentras: I’ve seen a fair share of that, but it’s not unlike many other producers of suspension products. Giving companies a chance at redemption is fine with me. I’ve seen plenty of other shite suspension products (from the big gun companies too)... it happens.
So many of us expect suspension to just do it’s job without batting an eye, yet it’s the most abused piece of equipment we’ve got. I do agree, having service documents would be nice and that’s a bid downfall.
At the end of the day, we won’t know how this shock performs unless it has been ridden a fair amount, even past service intervals etc.
  • 2 0
 @chakaping: it feels very damped, yes. Gobs of adjustability and very consistent. Off the top, it feels even better though. I just threw in some more volume spacers so we’ll see how ramp up gets after more of the rowdy trails around me open up.
  • 2 0
 @chuckobike: thx for the response, I do think I prefer the feel of the DBair to the X2 myself, at least on long travcel bikes
  • 32 5
 I’ve loved how every Cane Creek shock I’ve tried has ridden, but they need to prove reliable for a few years (and maybe some user or shop serviceability) before I’d buy one.

And for this shock, Cane Creek needs to bring something better to the table than an X2-better price, easier to service, better performance.......something!!
  • 17 1
 From personal experience riding CCDBs. It is an extremely well damped shock just as the review states and it's one of the reasons I buy them and imo more so than the other brands. I find the climb switch to be better too because it firms up both the rebound and compression circuit, not just compression. Yes I agree it should be serviceable for a home mechanic.
  • 15 0
 @peleton7 I would think a true lockout would be at the top of your list for your Peleton.
  • 1 0
 @rtclark: if they now offer 2 positions on the climb switch I would actually prefer the middle position to be with less low speed compression but still with slow rebound for all the traction and the second setting to be firmer with compression. I can't imagine a lot of people will need a complete lock out.
  • 2 2
 @rtclark: Review stated it was over-damped. Not extremely well damped.
  • 10 1
 Not being serviceable at home is my biggest issue, I don't even care if it's not the very best option in performance if only it's made to be extremely easy to service yourself. Instant deal ender right there.
  • 2 1
 @jcc0042: despite my handle, I ride big squish 29ers. Unless I’m on pavement (and usually not even then) I don’t use lockouts-most modern full squish bikes are pretty efficient with the suspension wide open. I’d go so far as to say that there is no reason to get a bike that needs a lockout these days, even on 150mm or more travel frames.

Considering the purpose of this shock, I’d say a lockout would be at the bottom of my wish list.
  • 2 0
 @fullendurbro: Re-read the last line of the 'Pros' column.
  • 16 1
 I have been treated very well by Cane Creek as recently as 4 weeks ago. And I'm not the most deserving of customers.

Can say the same for Fox who serviced a shock quickly & with better than expected service...and again, I was not the most deserving of customer.

Was also treated as exceptionally well by Ohlins in a second hand owner situation. Yet again, not the most deserving of customer.

US based service centers for all 3 brands have been respectful, accommodating and reasonable in their responses and skills. Just want to put that bit of positivityout there.
  • 1 0
 @cuban-b-can-blow-me: 3 weeks lead time for service at fox.
  • 1 1
 @Cyclehd: that's Corona-verse issues, not Fox's. I've dropped stuff off and picked it up next day shortly before this madness.
.
You can either cut the line or get in it. Right now, you'd have to cut the line at risk of being mauled by the horde.
  • 1 0
 @rtclark: they make the only shock
I’ve found rideable on double-blacks at 230 riding weight. But I hate having to ship it out for service.
  • 24 0
 It's only tuesday and there is so much content, something is wrong
  • 45 0
 They're trying to make us forget about the Specialized Status review that got removed.
  • 2 0
 Spring is in the air Mud is turning to loam Fresh trails are bedding in Some poor people are stuck at home
  • 4 0
 @mikkosinisalo: What's the story there, eh? Still an embargo on the bike's existence?
  • 1 0
 @chakaping: they reviewed the wrong bike
  • 1 0
 @chakaping: there have been a couple in BuySell and Fanatik has some in their Bike Builder. All USA
  • 1 0
 @Noeserd: how do you mean?
  • 1 0
 @ceecee: yeah it was a crap joke, I know it's been on sale for ages
  • 6 0
 @chakaping: they literally reviewed status 140 and wrote everything like it is 160
  • 4 0
 @Noeserd: thank you, I didn't even realise there was a 140mm version.
Obviously I'm not alone in that Wink
  • 1 0
 @chakaping: Status is not even on specializeds webpage... No idea what they are doing
  • 1 0
 @Noeserd: do you remember the date of the review? I remember it but can't think of the month even
  • 1 0
 @zombiejack33: maybe 1.5 week before?
  • 24 0
 Now just need a Kashima Kitsuma
  • 37 0
 we call that the Satsuma
  • 9 0
 TETSUOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!
  • 1 0
 All I can read is Cane Creek Katsumi which means that this shock is creating much more excitation in my brain that it actually should !
  • 2 0
 @chezotron: KAAANEEEDAAAAAA!!!!
  • 15 0
 "According to Cane Creek, this has been adjusted, and the latest run of shocks should give riders access to faster rebound speeds."

-So you're saying we need to pay attention to the serial number of the shock we're buying?
  • 7 0
 @slippynicky isn't paying attention to the serial number standard practice when buying Cane Creek suspension?
  • 3 3
 @PhillipJ: Standard practice is avoiding them.
  • 13 1
 Even as more of a "set it and forget it" guy, I love the dials. Different tunes for different trails, it's been good to step into being more engaged with my suspension feel.

Also, the lockout is really great on this shock. When you can't climb singletrack and have to take the gravel road, it's great to save your legs. A little surprised this feature gets so glossed over here... To have a proper enduro worthy shock that can also almost totally lock out is pretty trick engineering - nice work CC!
  • 14 6
 Kazimer’s reviews are kinda looking the same to me lately. He gives a “fair and balanced” assessment, but I walk away without knowing how well a product works.
Where were the lap times, where was just pure damping quality? I don’t care about adjusters being weird, I want great performance!
I put a Cane Creek DB Inline Air on my Tallboy because a Pinkbike review claimed it was maybe an improvement to a short travel bike. The change was unreal! And I came from a custom valved (Lower end) Fox shock. It’s a totally different bike..
Seems there are some products that these guys test that will get an ambiguous review. No matter how good.
  • 8 1
 Is there a specific aspect I didn't address? I included the comparison to the X2 for more context, but I'm happy to answer specific questions.
  • 6 0
 @mikekazimer: is good review but am in same boat. Put a dbil on a banshee spitfire and is night and day. Better I mean. Came from monarch rt3 so not saying a ton but still. I'm also 230 lbs so most shocks are underdamped. Also be interesting to point out that the x2 is basically a copy of original db air which was designed with help from Ohlins. I think. Did Fox just perfect it or am I oversimplifying? Just like to root for anyone other than Fox and Rockshox.
  • 11 0
 @Edgibson, you're correct in that the X2 is also a twin tube design - it's a layout that been used in the motorsports world for years. I do think for a bigger rider the damping issues I ran into would be less likely to occur. Will this be a night and day difference compared to a Float X2? No, which is why this review has more of a neutral tone. It's a good shock, but it didn't absolutely blow me away with its performance.

If I'd been comparing it to a Monarch RT3, well, I would have been much more impressed.
  • 2 0
 @mikekazimer: thanks for response.
  • 4 0
 @mikekazimer: Hope I didn’t offend, wasn’t my goal. I’d say it’s also a Pinkbike trend. I wrote a long review (for whomever) after going from narrow carbon to 30mm ID alloy rims. Long story short, that was the other huge step forward for Tallboy.
I scoured Pinkbike for opinion before taking that plunge, and after sifting though pro’s and con’s of both in tests, it was a video of downhillers asked for their opinion on carbon vs alloy that did it.
In the case of this Cane Creek, I was hoping to see how the damping quality held up against the equivalent Fox shock. After this test, I’d be no closer to choosing one over the other..
My Inline Air simply had much finer valving resolution and that twin tube design. Something no amount of revealing that cheap Fox it replaced could compete with. Though Pinkbike was good enough to show that this is a real twin tube shock for XC travel bikes, but I waited until I found one for half price before taking that plunge. Wish I didn’t wait..
Although there was the recent downhill fork comparison. Now that’s what I’m talking about! I’d know what I’m getting into, and what I can do with it.
  • 1 0
 @mikekazimer: One more thing about rim width. The rim width comparison on Pinkbike a few years ago was in depth, but left out an important point- modern trail bike tires are designed for “wider” rims.
If I knew that outside tire knobs were doing nothing for me because my 21mm ID rims were rounding my Damphs too far in, I wouldn’t have waited 5 years for the rim swap either. That, plus the compliance of aluminum, changed my world. I still need to pull out volume spacers since the swap!
  • 3 0
 @mikekazimer: I'd not be as critical as the commenter above, but to offer some constructive criticism: I sometimes think there's room for more focus on ride feel in reviews of bikes and suspension components.
To give you a positive example, I was describing the feel of my Zeb to a pal the other day and I referred to what I think was a description from your review that it felt like there was memory foam on the trail.
More of that kind of thing please.
Also - does this shock feel the same as the DBair?
  • 1 0
 @mikekazimer: The Meta TR is on my shortlist but I've got no opportunity to test ride or even see one. In standard form is it more of a monster truck or a jump machine? I want something more lively and agile than my Geometron.
  • 1 0
 @mikekazimer: Now that sums up the performance beautifully for me! When I read a review, I have one thing in mind- I’m looking to spend my money somewhere..
  • 13 0
 These go to eleven
  • 2 0
 This lockout goes to eleven. Thats propulsion baby. We're going to the moooon
  • 7 0
 I would have to think if you actually own all the tools required to service this shock (vacuum and nitrogen) you can figure out the rebuild.

I own the coil kitsuma and it performs really well. Sure there are other great options out there but after riding this shock I have not found a single reason to replace it.
  • 10 0
 more knobs than a Dj turntable
  • 9 0
 True, none of my turntables have any knobs on them.
  • 16 1
 @RonSauce: Ron really turned the tables on you
  • 2 0
 @RonSauce: idk you could call the on-switch on the SL-1200 a knob
  • 1 0
 @erikvehmeyer: sure can, but four is still more than one.
  • 1 0
 @erikvehmeyer: Haha, sup dude! I saw this comment and was like "Where's Erik? Oh, there."
  • 1 0
 @RonSauce: I am holding out for a shock with more knobs than a rotary mixer. Maybe next year.
  • 1 0
 @RonSauce: whats with the on/off, 33/45 and stylus light knob on my 1200´s? and technically the pitch adjuster is also a knob. and dont forget the start/stop button.
  • 2 0
 @funkzander: buttons aren't a knob, 4 is still more than 3. Also I stated none of MINE have any knobs, I have 5 tables, no knobs, only buttons and sliders. But im just funnin' around, dude meant to say mixer im sure.
  • 9 0
 I build all these and the knob stiffness problem has been fixed.
  • 2 0
 Did he just say 'knob stiffness'.
Insert Bevis & Butthead sn*ggers>>
  • 3 0
 Nice. All my Cane Creek shocks have been the best I've ever used. Thanks guys!
  • 7 0
 Sounds to me like it's just not as explosive as the X2
  • 8 1
 But will it break a Specialized frame?
  • 2 0
 Fits on my 2019 Stumpy - tight but free and clear!
  • 12 1
 no, but a Specialized frame will break it (or any other shock)
  • 5 1
 For $700 this better get a glowing review which it sounds like it’s just okay. I wonder if maybe the set up was wrong or it needed a custom tune. Or it’s just a meh shock
  • 2 0
 Kitzuma coil…Arrived yesterday, and straight forward installed on a giant reign 29, valt coil 300x3,00 cause I cannot find any 2,5 or 2,8
The coil fits just at the limit of the preload space, lucky me!

I enjoyed the close position on the long tarmac uphill. But when started the descent I immediately feel the overdamped nature if this shock. Probably is because it’s new so it needs to break trough. But extremely harsh, the back was popping here and there with not much compliance. Compression knobs all the way open, slow speed reb one click from open, high speed reb 1/4 of turn from fully open.

The situation is extremely bad compared to the old CCDB coil I need to test it out again and probably having some hours on it but so far I’m disappointed.
I also want to check the pressure on the piggy back by, it could be too high. I’ll give you some update.
  • 1 0
 How did this ultimately work out for? Did you end up figuring it out or selling the shock?
  • 7 1
 Sorry. I need more knobs for $700
  • 11 0
 That’s what she said???!
  • 3 2
 I don't think I'd own a shock with tool-free dials again. Bought a stuck down DB Inline CS and had it fully rebuilt. Rode it once when I realised I had to pull a multitool out every five minutes when I wanted to change something. I'm obviously a tweaker.
  • 3 1
 Sure does suck when your in the "new" phase or decide to try and change up your suspension and have to grab a tool every few minutes just to make a click up or down...
  • 1 0
 Had a db inline v1 and reliability was what you've heard. valves blew apart twice after a couple months each time. Cane Creek were quick to rebuild it once, and then replace it with db air cs. both shocks feel amazing and changed my bikes. I still have the db air on my old bike.. rode it a lot and had no problems. Cane Creek were killing it 6-7 years ago when Fox and Rock Shox really weren't. But you can get a shock as good as Cane Creek from either of those companies now, so not sure I could pull the trigger on another one.
  • 1 0
 I cannot stand dials that don't index well. My Monarch Plus dials are the same, and in a tight (low clearance area), not being able to dial in comp/reb by feel is a huge PITA, requiring me to dismount, get on my knees and watch how many turns the dial is spinning... /Rant.
  • 5 1
 Came here for the knob jokes. Left the room disappointed. Frown
  • 26 3
 Exactly what your wife says
  • 1 0
 @mtb-scotland: oh sh*t!!! Brutal.
  • 1 0
 @chrisingrassia: moreso that it‘s an Englishman and a Scot.
  • 4 2
 After owning 3 Cane Creek shocks, I think they should be sold two at a time. That way you’re going to usually have one that works..
  • 1 1
 name checks out. gravel rider talking shit. probably has a fox x2 that hasent blown up yet cause he only rides down gravel roads when his mom shuttles him.
  • 3 3
 STOLEN FROM MANCHESTER UK.....

Posted this on an article about stolen UK bikes. Just gona carry on posting to raise awareness. Please help....


Hey PB how about doing a Weekley post of stolen bikes to help your readers and raise awareness? Had my 7k Ransom stolen and I'm livid Frown The current situation is getting worse and we need to help each other and raise awareness. Anywa, here's a copy of my stolen listing for any UK folk to be aware off. Please like and bump up to the top to help me x

Stolen from Whalley Range Manchester 17.11.20

Scott Ransom 2019 920 heavily modified
Unfortunately I didn’t take a pic after I completed this build. But it was caught in photos of other parts as pictured.
It is the 2019 920 but with the silver/raw finish of the same 2020 one.
I had the horrible sand/brown/orange paint stripped and the bike clear coated.
So it has no branding either but it does have this protective vinyl skin www.dyedbro.com/products/viking
If anyone has done the same to their ransom, please show me pics that I can use to post.

Look out for any shoddy sprayed ransoms. I imagine they will probably strip and sell the parts and maybe respray the frame to sell later as that’s the most traceable
Serial no GW1805288

Full spec
Large Scott Ransom 920 Bike (acid dipped and clear coated for the raw/silver finish)
FOX Nude T EVOL (I upgraded this to the kashima factory version and removed the branding)
FOX 36 Factory kashima Grip2 170mm black (removed the branding and with a oneup axle and oneup edc steerer tool with threaded steerer)
Hope silver ZS44/56 headset
ULTIMATE USE Vyce 40mm stem
Spank vibrocore bars
Ergon GD1 black grips
Shimano m8120 XT 4pot brakes
Shimano m8000 XT gears with a e13 9-46t cassete
Shimano RT86 203mm rotors with sliver Ti bolts
Race face atlas black 165mm crankset with a 32t chainring
Front wheel: Spank vibrocore 29er rim on a black hope pro 4 boost hub Magic Mary 2.35 soft orange grip
Rear wheel: Spank Vibrocore 650b rim on a spank spike XD hub Rock Razor 2.35 soft orange grip
Oneup V2 210 dropper with the new shimano lever
SDG YT saddle
DMR Vault pedals
Hope pressfit BB

Thanks in advance. Rewards for info btw.
  • 1 0
 I'll make sure to look out for it.
  • 5 2
 Sorry if you think poppet based damping with purely degressive damping curve is great. It's not. Shims FTW
  • 2 0
 I'm really hoping they come out with some non-metric sizes for this. I'd love to replace the DBAir on my Canfield with a Kitsuma coil, but it's 216x63 so no dice.
  • 2 0
 Based on last year i’d rather buy shock with rebound only adjustment, that are servís able at home and tune via reputable suspension aftermarket tuner over this
  • 1 0
 Oh boy. Another expensive shock with a short service interval that most people will have to mail out for service. I'm pretty sure this is why most of my customers ride Fox and Rockshox.
  • 1 0
 @mikekazimer I bought the kitsuma for my meta tr at the end of last year, how can I find out if my shock has the updated low-speed rebound setting?
  • 1 0
 Does it feel like it's over dampened in compression or no?
  • 1 0
 @DylanH93: not had a chance to ride it yet, I have only now just gotten all the parts for it
  • 2 1
 I realized Mike Kazimer wrote this just by reading his "I'm not this is good or bad, I'm just saying is not better nor worse than..." style.
  • 1 0
 Not saying*
  • 1 0
 Any one want to break down what those adjustments actually do? I have aDB inline coil on a Jeffsy. It is great. Ive never touched the dials.
  • 8 0
 Not really
  • 3 0
 Do they do a version with less twizzlers?
  • 2 0
 An impressive range of adjustability, but the "must be serviced by authorized" bit is kinda a deal breaker to me.
  • 2 0
 Their "Dialed" app was a good resource for shock tuning until it recently stopped working properly in iOS..
  • 3 0
 i like to pretend my bike is a trophy truck when it goes squish squish.
  • 2 0
 Same here.
  • 2 0
 Why would you buy a shock from a producer won't let you service itself on purpose?
  • 1 0
 I wish manufactures would make it easy to integrate a cable and spring attachment to actuate the climb switch from the bars instead of having to Jerry rig one
  • 1 2
 "being able to easily keep track of my settings"

It's way easier with dials. You can take a picture, or just reference a clockface in your notes. Numbers of clicks or "time" on the dials, either way still gotta record some numbers. At least with dials you don't have to reset back to zero in order to verify, so arguably the dials are actually much much easier to keep track of.

The desire for clicks is preference, but ease of keeping track is no contest, dials win.
  • 2 1
 I'm curious why shocks got more adjustments than forks at first. At least this was true for Fox
  • 13 0
 Because they need a wider range of adjustment due to the different manufacturers suspension kinematics. Forks now have more adjustments because people have been asking for them.
  • 2 0
 It looks badass with the stealrh colour
  • 1 0
 @mikekazimer What size volume reducer did you install? Did you trim it at all?
  • 3 0
 Knob > dials
  • 3 1
 Darth Vaders shock of choice
  • 2 0
 @mikekazimer that is the 2021 Float X2 pictured by the way!
  • 1 0
 how does cane creek have a shock called the kitsuma and tranz-x has a dropper called the kitsuma
  • 2 0
 Nox has rims called Kitsuma too. It's a popular trail near Asheville.
  • 1 0
 @deez-nucks: thx that makes sense
  • 1 0
 Just bring back the original doublebarrel both coil and air! With imperial sizing too.
  • 1 3
 Support right to repair legislation going into law. Companies should be required to allow you to work on things you buy.

Usually the companies that don’t offer manuals and parts are covering for “running changes” on the assembly line.

They find a problem and fix it quietly, but they don’t want the consumers who have purchased previous generations to know. The cane creek in-line had a crazy amount of changes, and even authorized service centers couldn’t get current parts. Recalls only happen for safety issues. If it’s a problem that just makes the product fail they don’t tell you.
  • 1 0
 KITSUMA is a perfect anagram of KATSUMI, a well known french porn star. Pure coïncidence? I don't know...
  • 1 0
 the X2 doesn't fit the SC HighTower v2, as the OD can is too big.
Would this CC fit ? Anyone got some info, please ?
  • 1 1
 But goddamn these knobs are very ugly! Why the f*ck would i want to have tool free knobs?!
  • 1 2
 Want to come for a 6 hour ride? I'm going to run laps at the local park and get my shock dialed.
  • 1 0
 These go to eleven ...
  • 1 2
 I've never thought of upgrading my shock, am I alone? Def changed out my fork to get more travel.
  • 1 0
 depends on what your starting point is... but it can completely change the way your bike handles and make it feel like it has more travel from the improvement in traction (if that's what you're going for).
  • 1 0
 I would call it girthy
  • 8 11
 Cane Creek X2, sweet.
  • 9 1
 CC DB was out years before the X2
  • 2 10
flag nzerk (Feb 23, 2021 at 12:15) (Below Threshold)
 @mtb-scotland: Also the worst shock in existence.
  • 9 2
 @nzerk: you are being confused with the original DB IL Air. The DB Air have not had issues and the Fox X2 is just a copy of it
  • 2 7
flag mtb-scotland (Feb 23, 2021 at 13:02) (Below Threshold)
 @nzerk: yes, the X2 is pretty crap, damping is non-existent
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