RockShox adds more wizardry to their electronic suspension system
Flight Attendant gets some cool new features
Synopsis
- Available now: a fork-only firmware update that enables riders on hardtails to use a Flight Attendant equipped fork.
- Available now: this same fork-only firmware update also enables riders on full-suspension bikes with a rear shock that is not compatible with Flight Attendant, to run a Flight Attendant fork
- Available in August: Launch Control, a feature that firms the system up for the first few pedal strokes off of the start line
- Available in August: Customizable Auto Mode, is the option to set your own preferred suspension setting, when in Auto Mode
The Fork-Only update
Previously, the Flight Attendant system required a Flight Attendant-equipped fork and rear shock, and pedaling sensor (Power Meter or Pedal Sensor) to function. With the latest Fork-Only update, Flight Attendant has an algorithm, designed for, you guessed it, just the fork.
What this means is the system and it’s benefits are now available to hardtail riders. At the same time, riders on full-suspension bikes with a non-compatible shock, can enjoy the efficiency of the electronic wizardy on their fork.
Launch Control
Launch Control allows rider to set their Flight Attendant system in the Lock position for maximum efficiency and speed, at race starts. What happens is the system automatically deactivates and returns to Auto Mode either after a preset time (duration) or when a bump is encountered, whichever occurs first. Riders can determine both the duration and size of the bump required to deactivate Launch Control.
The development story behind this feature is a pretty cool one and is linked to Nino Schurter’s record-breaking 34th World Cup win in Lenzerheide last year. After Friday’s XCC, Nino proposed an idea to the engineers at RockShox: he wanted a feature that would keep his Flight Attendant system in the LOCK position for the explosive start and automatically return to Auto Mode, allowing him to focus entirely on the race. The software was written overnight, tested on the streets of Lenzerheide at 1am and then Nino raced it to victory just hours later.
Customizable Auto Mode
With this new setting riders can completely personalize their setup. For example, if you don’t want your fork or full system (fork and shock) entering Lock position while in Auto Mode, there’s a setting for that.
Another example is for Trail and Enduro riders who want to keep their fork as consistent as possible off-road. The new ‘Pedal Disabled’ function keeps the fork open for most trail scenarios, only switching to Lock position for smoother climbs when maximum efficiency is needed. // sram.com