Anthem shock upgrade - worth it?

[quickdraw]

Would it be worth the expense to upgrade my current shock (giant maestro) to a rp2 or rp23?

[DirtyFrank]

RP 23 if you can afford it but your fork performance may not match the shock then....If the fork is good then yes but if it is a budget spec item then you are probably wasting your time.

[Borriz]

Good question! I haven't had the best experience with my Manitou rear shock. Considered this quite a few times and got analysis paralysis when guys started mentioning eye to eye lengths, bush mounting etc etc.

 

I think the last price I got quoted was R7,500-R8,000 for Fox RP shock. Keeping in mind new frame, including rear shock, sells for R10,500 about.

[JasonW]

In my opinion there is little if any benefit to the RP23 as the extra adjustability is pointless in the real world.  The RP2 is the same shock only you don't get the little 3-way dial.

[quickdraw]

Well I moved from a hardtail (although I have owned a Trance and and Extension x-elite) and I am enjoying the feel of the Anthem.

 

I transferred all my other bits (XTR and Fox RLC fork) to an Anthem 3 frame, the only thing I am wondering is how much of a difference the fox shock will make over the current budget spec.

[AndreZA]

If you are like the rest of us mortals that can not even pick up differences in .5 bar in tyre pressure and then complain about tyre performance, then I would say no, it is not worth it.

[TYGA]

Keep your eyes open and replace the shock when a good deal comes your way. The Maestro won't last too long and an RP2 will do just fine as replacement / upgrade.

[DirtyFrank]

Sounds good so the upgrade would be advised. RP23 is a good match for the RLC

[rad006]

Dont waste your money, keep what you have and race harder

[DirtyFrank]

Dont waste your money' date=' keep what you have and race harder[/quote'] This is always the cheaper/better option but not nearly as much fun!