Which is better for XC bike: Fox DPS vs. Rockshox Deluxe Ultimate

NeedleBanger · Jan 25, 2023

Hi there, My XC frame came with a Fox DPS Performance Elite shock (190x45) and I'm wondering if it would make a positive/negative difference if I changed it to a RS Deluxe Ultimate. I found a RS shock on pinkbike for a good price, it's already factory-tuned to my exact bike (originally came off one just like it) and it would match my Sid Ultimate fork. I currently use a RS Twistloc. I don't do any racing, just intensive riding for personal enjoyment

, I'm 170 lbs. Both shocks are set up similarly with volume spacers. I've only ever had Fox rear shocks so I can't really compare them to RS at this point.

is the difference between the 2 shocks even noticeable?
is it worth the couple hundred bucks for the Deluxe Ultimate, even to have as a spare?

MTB Engineer · Jan 25, 2023

Personally I’d keep the Fox. RS is easier to service but difficult to get parts for and performance will be very similar with both shocks.

snow snakes · Jan 25, 2023

Based on my entirely subjective experience, the DPS slots between the Sidluxe and the Deluxe Rockshox offerings. If I’m correct, the adjustability and air can size is maybe a touch bigger on the Deluxe? Over 4 bikes, I’ve had a hard time to find the sweet spot between the DPS feeling either great uphill and incredibly wooden on sustained descents or a bit mushy uphill and blowing through the travel downhill, but based on posts I’ve seen from you, your riding seems to be more xc.

Which shock would you rather have on a XC bike? (190x45, not racing)

Fox DPS (Performanc Elite)

Rockshox Deluxe Ultimate

They're practically identical

Which is better for XC bike: Fox DPS vs. Rockshox Deluxe Ultimate

Top Contributors this Month

Recommended Communities