EXT Aria V2: Three Air Chambers and a Dedicated Downhill Option

By MTBSA contributor

EXT’s second-generation Aria revises its unusual three-chamber air spring and adds a dedicated downhill version. The aim is to combine adjustable air-spring behaviour with a more consistent feel through the stroke, while reducing friction and improving frame clearance.

What changes for V2?

The piggyback reservoir now runs lengthways rather than across the shock, which EXT says expands fitment possibilities. Internal updates include a revised air-transfer system, seals and bushings. The upper bushing now sits internally in contact with damping oil.

The standard shock offers high- and low-speed compression, rebound, hydraulic bottom-out control and a lockout. The DH version drops the lockout, uses a downhill-specific tune and has a bottom-out valve claimed to generate 20% more damping force.

Why the extra air valve?

Alongside the usual positive and negative chambers, the Aria has an additional positive chamber controlled by a floating piston. Adjusting its pressure changes when that piston moves and exposes extra air volume during compression.

The result is a different way of shaping mid-stroke support and late-stroke progression from conventional volume spacers. EXT’s goal is a more coil-like second half of the stroke, but whether it works better for a rider depends on the bike, setup and terrain. The design alone does not establish superior performance.

Sizes, setup and price

The release lists standard and trunnion options with strokes from 47.5 to 75 mm. Claimed weights are 622 g in 210 × 55 mm and 667 g in 250 × 75 mm. Announced pricing is ≈ R20 692 or ≈ R20 079, listed as including VAT, with a five-year warranty.

EXT’s Ridemaster web tool is intended to help select pressures and damping settings using bike and rider information. It does not replace a frame-clearance check.

For South African owners, confirm both physical compatibility and access to servicing before ordering. International launch pricing does not confirm local cost or stock. This article covers the announced changes, not a comparative suspension test.

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About these rand prices

Amounts marked ≈ are approximate rand conversions of overseas prices, using SARS reference rates dated 12 October 2026, rounded to the nearest rand. They are not South African retail quotes and exclude additional shipping, import charges and local retailer costs. Confirm current local pricing with a South African dealer. Unqualified dollar prices in US-market reporting are treated as US dollars; explicitly identified currencies use their corresponding rate.