How to Service Your Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate Rear Shock Without a Mechanic

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The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock from RockShox is a high-performance suspension component, designed for serious mountain biking enthusiasts. Servicing this rear shock on your own can seem like a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can maintain and optimize its performance without needing a professional mechanic. This guide will take you through the necessary steps to service, troubleshoot, and customize your Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock to keep it in top condition.

Tools Required

  • 8mm and 10mm socket wrenches
  • Torque wrench [paid link] (for precise torque settings)
  • RockShox seal kit
  • Suspension fluid (RockShox recommended)
  • 3mm, 4mm, and 5mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
  • Towel or work mat
  • Rags for cleaning
  • Small plastic spatula or flathead screwdriver
  • 15mm wrench (for removing the shock from the frame)
  • Shock pump

Disassembling the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate Rear Shock

To begin servicing the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock, the first step is to remove it from the bike frame. This requires the proper tools and safety precautions. Follow these steps:

  1. Remove the Rear Shock from the Frame
    • Use a 15mm wrench to remove the bolts connecting the rear shock to the frame. Depending on your bike model, you may need to slightly lift or support the frame to relieve tension on the shock during removal.
  2. Place the Shock on a Soft Surface
    • After removal, place the shock on a clean, soft towel or work mat. This helps prevent any damage to the shock’s delicate components while you work on it.
  3. Disassemble the Shock
    • Start by removing the coil spring. Use the 8mm or 10mm socket wrench to loosen and remove the preload adjuster nut. Once it is removed, slide the coil spring off carefully.
  4. Release the Air Can
    • Using a 3mm Allen wrench [paid link], unscrew the bolts securing the air can to the damper body. Carefully remove the air can from the damper, allowing you to access the internal components of the shock.

Servicing the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate Rear Shock

Once the shock is disassembled, you can begin cleaning and servicing its components. This includes replacing the seals and lubricating the internal parts.

  1. Clean the Shock’s Components
    • Use a rag to clean all visible dirt, grease, and debris from the shock components. Pay special attention to the air can, seals, and damper shaft.
  2. Inspect the Seals
    • Examine the seals for any signs of wear, cracks, or damage. If any of the seals appear compromised, replace them with the new seals from the RockShox seal kit.
  3. Lubricate the Components
    • Apply fresh suspension fluid to the moving parts inside the shock, such as the damper shaft and piston. This ensures smooth performance and helps to reduce wear on internal components.
  4. Install New Seals
    • Replace the old seals with new ones from the RockShox kit. Install the seals carefully, ensuring they are seated properly to avoid leaks during use.
  5. Reassemble the Shock
    • Once all components are cleaned and lubricated, reassemble the shock by reversing the disassembly steps. Reattach the air can to the damper body and ensure it is securely fastened. Reinstall the coil spring by sliding it back onto the shock and tightening the preload adjuster nut to the correct torque specifications.

Adjusting the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate Rear Shock

After servicing the shock, it’s important to adjust it to your rider preferences and riding conditions. These adjustments will help you optimize the performance of the rear shock.

  1. Set the Preload
    • Adjust the preload on the coil spring by tightening or loosening the preload adjuster nut. This will affect the initial sag of the shock. To find the ideal preload, measure the amount of sag by sitting on the bike and checking the shock’s compression. Generally, you want around 30% of the shock’s travel to be used when you’re sitting on the bike.
  2. Adjust the Rebound
    • The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate features a rebound adjustment knob. To adjust the rebound, turn the knob to control the shock’s return speed. Turning it clockwise slows the rebound, while turning it counterclockwise increases the speed. Experiment with the setting until you find the balance that works for your riding style.
  3. Adjust Compression Settings
    • The shock features separate high and low-speed compression adjustments. Start with the factory settings, then adjust based on your riding needs. If you ride aggressive downhill trails, consider increasing the low-speed compression for better support. On smoother trails, you may want to soften the high-speed compression for a more comfortable ride.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

Even after servicing and setting up your Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock, you may encounter some common issues that affect its performance. Here are a few troubleshooting tips:

  1. Shock Bottoming Out
    • If you notice that your shock is bottoming out too often, check the coil spring’s preload. Increasing the preload may help prevent excessive compression. Additionally, adjust the high-speed compression for firmer support.
  2. Excessive Rebound Speed
    • If the shock feels too bouncy or springs back too quickly after a compression, turn the rebound adjustment knob clockwise to slow down the return speed.
  3. Leaking Air
    • If you notice a loss of air pressure in the shock, check the seals for damage. Leaking air is often caused by worn-out seals, which should be replaced immediately. Ensure that the air can is tightly sealed during reassembly.

Customizing Your Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate Rear Shock for Better Performance

For riders looking to customize their shock for different terrain or riding styles, there are several options for fine-tuning its performance:

  1. Change the Coil Spring Rate
    • The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate allows you to change the coil spring for one with a different rate. This can be a good option if you want to adjust the overall feel of the shock for your specific weight or riding style.
  2. Upgrade the Dampening
    • Consider upgrading the damper to a higher-end version, such as the RC2T or the RCT, to improve fine-tuning control over rebound and compression.
  3. Switch to a Thicker Oil
    • For smoother performance on rougher trails, consider using a thicker suspension fluid. This can slow down the damper’s response, providing a more controlled ride on aggressive terrain.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock is primarily a suspension component, but its performance can be influenced by other drivetrain components. When upgrading or changing parts of your bike, it’s important to ensure compatibility:

  1. Frame Compatibility
    • Ensure your bike frame can accommodate the shock’s dimensions and mounting standards. The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate typically comes with different eye-to-eye and stroke lengths, so check your bike’s specifications before purchasing.
  2. Coil Spring and Shock Size
    • The size and type of coil spring may vary depending on the rider’s weight and preferences. When selecting a spring, make sure it matches the specifications of your Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock.
  3. Suspension Geometry
    • Changes to your bike’s geometry, such as upgrading to a different fork or altering the rear triangle, may affect the performance of the shock. Always ensure that the front and rear suspension are compatible for optimal performance.

By following this guide, you can confidently service, adjust, and troubleshoot your RockShox Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock. Regular maintenance and the right adjustments will help you get the most out of your bike, ensuring smooth, efficient suspension that supports you on every ride.