The new EXT Aria V2. (All photos / Extreme racing Shox)

The original Aria was EXT’s first bike air shock, bringing a unique design, features, and a high price tag to the rear suspension market. Today, EXT introduces the evolution of the platform with the new Aria V2 and Aria V2 DH models. Like the V1, the Aria V2 offers precise control over the spring curve and aims to provide coil-like sensitivity in an air shock. 

The Aria V2 models are still built around EXT’s patented AS3 dual positive air chamber system for “unlimited customization of the spring curve.” With updates to the air system and seals, a revised, more compact layout, and integration with EXT’s RideMaster app, the brand aims to improve the Aria V2’s performance, fit more bikes, and simplify setup. Let’s check it out.

The V2 updates include fresh colors and a new look compared to the V1.

EXT Aria V2 Details

With the original Aria and now the V2, EXT aimed to create a best-of-both-worlds product that essentially combines some of the performance characteristics of a coil shock with the benefits of an air shock. That’s no easy task, so how do they claim to do it?

AS3 Dual Positive Air Chamber

Two valves on the side of the Aria V2 allow for independent tuning of the + and ++ chambers of the AS3 system.

AS3 is EXT’s patented, proprietary dual positive air chamber system that “allows for unlimited customization of the spring curve.” It consists of two separate positive air chambers which allow users to independently adjust support (+) and progression (++), along with a large, self-equalizing negative chamber to deliver comfort at the start of travel. 

According to EXT, the + chamber (black valve) “defines the dynamic sag position and controls the behavior in the first part of travel (around 60%),” making it responsible for the top and mid-stroke. The ++ chamber (nickel-finished valve) handles the mid- to end-stroke support and controls progressivity. Increasing pressure in the ++ chamber increases mid-stroke support and end-stroke ramp-up, while decreasing it results in a more linear response.

Graphs showing the impacts of changes to the + chamber (left) and the ++ chamber (right).

EXT says that since progression can be controlled through the ++ chamber, the AS3 dual-positive air spring system negates the need to use volume spacers for tuning. Not only do they believe this helps to prevent mid-stroke dive or harsh ramp-up, but it’s also easier to adjust than using tokens. You don’t need to remove the shock from the bike, or even open the air can. All you need to do is adjust the pressure in the ++ chamber.

For maximum progression, the ++ chamber can be inflated up to 600 psi. This requires the use of a high-pressure shock pump, and fortunately, one is included with the purchase of the Aria V2.

HBC (Hydraulic Bottom-Out Control)

Originally appearing on EXT’s Storia V3 in 2018, the hydraulic bottom-out control (HBC) system does exactly what it says and allows riders to fine-tune the shock’s end-of-stroke performance even further. According to EXT, this system “consists of a secondary piston mounted below the main piston. As it approaches end-stroke, it enters an inner tube, forcing oil through a calibrated orifice that determines the progressivity of the final portion of travel.”

This adjustable HBC system works on the last 15% of the shock’s stroke, reportedly adjusting end-stroke support without altering air spring behavior. 

LOK 2.0

The LOK 2.0 switch is used to adjust compression on the Aria V2.

On the enduro/trail/e-bike version of the Aria V2, the LOK 2.0 switch carries over. This compression switch appears to function similarly to those found on many rear shocks, firming up the suspension when needed for climbing or pedaling. EXT says LOK 2.0 “features an independent, preloaded shimmed valve circuit that directs oil through a separate circuit when engaged, increasing compression support for efficient pedaling while retaining sensitivity over rough terrain.”

Aria V2: What’s New?

Air Spring

With the V2 update, EXT says it made some subtle refinements to the air spring to make it smoother and more predictable. These updates are:

• Redesigned Air Transfer System: A refined bypass between the positive and negative chambers creates a significantly smoother transition throughout the stroke, eliminating mid-stroke feedback.
• Optimized Airflow: Airflow along the positive chamber’s inner tube has been revised to ensure predictable, linear behavior even under rapid compression and high-speed impacts.

Seals and Friction Reduction

As with most shock updates, measures have been taken to reduce friction for smoothness, sensitivity, and consistency. According to EXT, they optimized materials and seal profiles to minimize friction. Additionally, the upper bushing’s new internal position puts it “in direct contact with the damping oil, ensuring smoother movement across full travel.”

Refined Chassis

One of the complaints about the original Aria was limited fitment and bike compatibility. To address this, EXT reduced the valve block footprint and switched the piggyback orientation from horizontal to vertical. Combined, these changes should improve frame clearance, frame compatibility, and potentially make installation easier. 

The Aria V2 DH is designed specifically for use with long-travel gravity bikes.

Dedicated DH Version

EXT is also expanding its Aria family with the Aria V2 DH, a dedicated Downhill/Freeride version designed specifically for use with longer shock strokes and the demands of gravity riding in mind. 

• Dedicated Tune: Tailored specifically for longer shock strokes and gravity riding.
• No LOK Lever: Removes the pedaling-oriented LOK 2.0 lever, allowing more DH frame fitting compatibility.
• DH-Specific HBC: Incorporates our engineered Hydraulic Bottom-Out Control capable of generating 20% more force at the end of the stroke to manage heavy impacts and landings.

The Aria V2 (top) and the Aria V2 DH (bottom)

EXT RideMaster Setup Guide

Riders who struggle with suspension setup will be happy to know that the Aria V2 and Aria V2 DH are both included in EXT’s RideMaster setup app. Rather than fumbling around with the myriad adjustments on the Aria V2 shocks, riders can input several metrics, including bike weight, rider weight, rear travel, shock stroke, and more. The app then provides suggested settings for HSC, LSC, rebound, and HBC clicks, along with recommended sag and air pressure. 

5-Year Warranty

EXT also informs us that its Aria V2 and Aria V2 DH are covered by its EXTREME #FIVEPLUS warranty extension program. “This extension program provides customers with 3-year additional coverage in addition to the original 2-year legal Warranty Contract.”

ARIA V2 — TRAIL / ENDURO / E-BIKE

• AS3 dual positive chamber technology
• Monotube design
• High-Speed and Low-Speed compression adjustment
• Rebound adjustment
• LOK 2.0 independent and customizable lockout circuit
• Adjustable Hydraulic Bottom-Out Control
• V4-series compression valve
• Ø14 mm chromoly steel shaft
• EV2S fluid
• High-volume bladder reservoir pressurized to 55 psi
• Actual weight: 622 g in 210 x 55 mm

AVAILABLE LENGTH / STROKE

• Metric Standard: 210 / 47.5 mm, 210 / 50 mm, 210 / 52.5 mm, 210 / 55 mm, 230 / 57.5 mm, 230 / 60 mm, 230 / 62.5 mm, 230 / 65 mm, 250 / 67.5 mm, 250 / 70 mm, 250 / 72.5 mm, 250 / 75 mm
• Metric Trunnion: 185 / 47.5 mm, 185 / 50 mm, 185 / 52.5 mm, 185 / 55 mm, 205 / 57.5 mm, 205 / 60 mm, 205 / 62.5 mm, 205 / 65 mm, 225 / 67.5 mm, 225 / 70 mm, 225 / 72.5 mm, 225 / 75 mm

PRICE: €1,100 // $1,200

ARIA V2 DH — DOWNHILL / FREERIDE

• AS3 dual positive air chamber technology
• Monotube design
• High-Speed and Low-Speed compression adjustment
• Rebound adjustment
• V4-series compression valve
• Ø14 mm chromoly steel shaft
• EV2S fluid
• Large-volume bladder reservoir pressurized to 55 psi
• DH-specific Hydraulic Bottom-Out Control with 20% more end-stroke force
• DH-dedicated tuning
• No LOK 2.0
• Actual weight: 667 g in 250 x 75 mm

AVAILABLE LENGTH / STROKE

• Metric Standard: 230 / 57.5 mm, 230 / 60 mm, 230 / 62.5 mm, 230 / 65 mm, 250 / 67.5 mm, 250 / 70 mm, 250 / 72.5 mm, 250 / 75 mm
• Metric Trunnion: 205 / 57.5 mm, 205 / 60 mm, 205 / 62.5 mm, 205 / 65 mm, 225 / 67.5 mm, 225 / 70 mm, 225 / 72.5 mm, 225 / 75 mm

PRICE: €1,100 // $1,200

Availability

EXT’s new Aria V2 shocks officially launched today and are available now. Head to the EXT website to learn more or check availability in your region.

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