From the same German engineer that developed the tech in most travel adjust forks, many dropper posts, several oval chainrings, and several other suspension systems floating around the market these days comes a new solution for riders tooling around on Specialized Enduros. No longer stuck with the proprietary shocks with a suspension yoke incorporated into it, this new company BikeYoke has an aftermarket solution that lets you run any number of standard 1/2″ eyelet shocks so you can better tune the suspension performance of the bike to your riding style. The first run will be shipping by the end of next month, so slide past the break with us to find out how to upgrade in time for hitting the trails this spring…
So until now, many Specialized Owners have been limited to that unique shock layout above, with a limited number of shocks fitting Specialized’s proprietary interface. But BikeYoke opens up the potential for lots of upgrades like this Monarch Plus DebonAir with its piggy back chamber. Designed in Germany and made in Taiwan, with partners that BikeYoke’s founder has been working with for more than a decade, this simple, black anodized machined 6061 shock extender should offer more after market flexibility to many riders.
In this first fun, BikeYoke is supporting every 2010 or newer Enduro model, including 26″ bikes, 29ers, and the newer 650B bikes. Depending on which model you ride might limit your options a little bit, but more adjustability over the stock shocks is the key. The replacement yoke simply bolts onto a standard 1/2″ (12.7mm) shock eyelet and then bolts in place on the FSR link with the standard Specialized hardware. No other hardware is required, just a new standard shock that is the right length and stroke for your bike.
The BikeYoke package sells for 106€ inside of the EU (including VAT) and for 89€ for customers outside the EU. Shipping is direct from BikeYoke and is free worldwide, but outside of the EU buyers will be responsible for paying all applicable customs fees and taxes. Currently sales are being handled as a pre-order, with shipping of this first batch planned for the beginning of March. Each BikeYoke comes with one BikeYoke shock extension to fit your specific Enduro, a bushing reducer, a 1/2″ DU bushing, and the one required M8 bolt. Customers pre-ordering in February will get a free upgrade to a titanium M8 mounting bolt, vs. the standard stainless one.
BikeYoke offers a 10 year warranty on their product, although they do warn that Specialized may not honor their frame warranty if you make the upgrade.
As of now, BikeYokes are only available for the Enduro, but owner Stefan Sack promises new models are in development and on the way. We’ve heard unofficially that the Stumpjumpers and Cambers are next in line. Plus other unique products are already in the pipeline from the young company, so we’ll be keeping our eyes open.