KYB to release MTB suspension! Pre-orders now open

December 8, 2025

KYB's MTB suspension has been attracting attention for the past year, with prototypes gradually being spotted, and then displayed and available for test rides at races and events earlier this year.

KYB's Japan-made MTB suspension is finally going to be available commercially.

Grumpy has also started accepting pre-orders.

In the past, downhill suspensions were supplied to some teams, so it's hard not to feel a sense of romance about it.

What kind of suspension is it?

First, a quick overview of KYB (Kayaba).
KYB is a Japanese manufacturer that has been making motorsport suspensions for a long time, and this model has been newly designed specifically for MTBs.

This suspension is an inverted single crown suspension fork.

The basic specifications are as follows.

Style: Inverted
Wheel size: 29 / 27.5 inch compatible
Travel: 160mm
Steerer: 1.5 Tapered
Axle: 20x110 Boost
Spring: Coil + Air Assist
Price: 274,780 yen (tax included)
Release date: Mid-February 2026 (planned)

What I felt after actually riding it

I also had the chance to test ride it at the Shimano Bikers Festival in July.

To be honest, when I grabbed the tire and twisted it, it didn't have the stiff, solid feel of an upright fork. In fact, it felt rather flimsy.

However, the impression was different when I rode it. I didn't feel any lack of rigidity; rather, it had a moderate suppleness, as if it were absorbing the rough terrain.

Instead of suppressing the road surface with rigidity, it seemed to be the type that brought stability to the ride.

Who and what kind of use is it suitable for?

Although it's intended for e-MTBs, I think it's also good for trail-to-enduro pedal bikes with around 160mm of travel.

Also, it's not just for full-suspension bikes; for example, I think it would also work well with long-travel hardtails like the UnAuthorized 33rpm, Chromag Rootdown, or KONA Honzo ESD.
For those who want to prioritize front stability and absorption on a hardtail, it seems like a good match.

If your current suspension feels "a bit stiff" or "bounces on rough terrain," this direction might be a good fit for you.

What about the price?

The price is 274,780 yen (tax included).

High-end models from other overseas brands might cost around 300,000 to 400,000 yen. Considering it's a high-end inverted fork made in Japan, I think the price is relatively reasonable.

It seems that enough repair parts will be prepared to assemble a new one from spare parts, so repairs will be relatively easy and reassuring.

Finally

Release is scheduled for mid-February 2026.
Pre-orders are currently being accepted.

Suspension is a part that is difficult to choose based on numbers and photos alone.
Please consult Shimizu for details.