The RockShox Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock is one of the most advanced and high-performance suspension components available on the market today. Specifically designed for riders who demand ultimate control, comfort, and durability on rough terrain, this shock excels in downhill, enduro, and aggressive trail riding. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about installing, adjusting, maintaining, and troubleshooting the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock, along with tips for customization and optimization. Additionally, we will compare it with similar models and provide compatibility details with other drivetrain components.

Tools Required

• Shock pump (with the correct pressure range)
• 5mm and 6mm hex wrenches
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• Flathead screwdriver
• 10mm and 12mm socket wrenches
• Soft cloth for cleaning
• Suspension grease
• Compression and rebound adjuster tool (if applicable)

Installation of the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate Rear Shock

Installing the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock requires careful attention to detail to ensure optimal performance. Follow these steps for a successful installation:

1. Remove the Old Shock
   Begin by removing the previous shock from your bike. Use the appropriate wrenches to disconnect both the upper and lower mounting bolts. Make sure to take note of the orientation of the shock so you can install the new one correctly.
2. Prepare the New Shock
   Before installing the new shock, check that it’s properly set up with the correct spring rate for your body weight and riding style. If necessary, swap out the spring for a more suitable one.
3. Install the Shock
   Position the shock between the upper and lower mounting points on the frame. Start by inserting the upper mounting bolt, ensuring that it is aligned correctly. Once the upper bolt is in place, insert the lower mounting bolt and tighten both bolts by hand.
4. Torque the Bolts
   Use a torque wrench [paid link] to tighten the mounting bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. For the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate, the torque values are typically 8-10 Nm for both upper and lower bolts, but it’s essential to consult the specific manual for confirmation.
5. Check for Proper Alignment
   Before finishing the installation, double-check the alignment of the shock. Ensure that the shock is sitting properly in the mounts without any misalignment, as this can lead to poor performance or damage over time.
6. Set the Sag
   Using a shock pump, inflate the shock to the recommended pressure. Make sure the bike is off the ground and check the sag (the amount the shock compresses under your weight). Adjust the air pressure as needed to achieve the recommended sag (usually around 30% of the shock’s travel).

Adjustment of the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate Rear Shock

Proper adjustment of your Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock will enhance your bike’s handling, comfort, and control. The shock offers several tunable features, allowing riders to customize it for their specific needs.

Compression Adjustment

The compression adjustment controls how the shock reacts to bumps and terrain features. The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate features high and low-speed compression settings:

• High-speed compression: Adjusts the shock’s ability to handle large, fast impacts.
• Low-speed compression: Controls how the shock reacts to smaller, slower impacts.

To adjust compression, use the designated tool to turn the adjustment knobs located on the shock. Start with a mid-range setting and make incremental adjustments based on your riding conditions.

Rebound Adjustment

The rebound adjustment controls how quickly the shock returns to its original position after being compressed. A proper rebound setting ensures that the shock doesn’t bounce uncontrollably after a hit. Adjust the rebound damping by turning the rebound knob at the bottom of the shock. Set it to a position that suits your riding style and terrain.

Spring Rate Adjustment

The spring rate is crucial to ensure proper support and performance. The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate uses a coil spring, which offers a more consistent feel throughout the travel compared to air springs. Choosing the right spring rate for your weight is essential. If the shock feels too soft or too stiff, consider swapping out the coil spring for one with a different rate.

Maintenance of the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate Rear Shock

Regular maintenance will ensure your Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock continues to perform at its best. Here’s how to keep your shock in top condition:

1. Cleaning
   After each ride, use a soft cloth to wipe down the shock to remove dirt and debris. Pay close attention to the seals and the areas where the shock connects to the frame.
2. Inspect for Leaks
   Regularly check for oil leaks, particularly around the seals. Leaking oil may indicate that the seals need to be replaced, which is critical for maintaining proper damping performance.
3. Lubrication
   Periodically, apply suspension grease to the mounting points to reduce wear and prevent creaking noises. Ensure that the coil spring is free of corrosion and is properly lubricated.
4. Shock Servicing
   While the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate is a low-maintenance shock, a full service should be performed every 100-150 hours of riding or annually, whichever comes first. This service includes replacing the oil and seals, checking the damper’s performance, and replacing worn components.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

Even with the high-performance design of the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate, riders may encounter common issues related to set-up or performance. Here’s how to troubleshoot:

• Excessive bottoming out: If your shock is bottoming out too frequently, check that the sag is properly set. Also, adjust the high-speed compression to handle larger impacts more effectively.
• Poor small-bump sensitivity: This can be due to an overly stiff compression setting. Decrease the low-speed compression to allow for better sensitivity to small bumps.
• Unstable rear end: If the rear end feels unstable or bouncy, ensure the rebound setting is not too fast. Slow it down to allow the shock to return to its original position more gradually.
• Noise from the shock: Creaking or knocking noises often indicate that the mounting bolts are not properly torqued or that there is dirt on the mounting hardware. Tighten the bolts and clean the shock thoroughly.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

To maximize the performance of the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate, consider the following customization options:

• Spring Choice: Choose a coil spring with the right spring rate based on your weight and riding style. A stiffer spring will provide better support for heavier riders, while a softer spring may benefit lighter riders who want more plushness.
• Damper Tuning: The high and low-speed compression settings can be fine-tuned based on the type of terrain you ride. For aggressive trail and enduro riding, you may want to use a stiffer compression setting, while smoother trail rides may benefit from a more open setting.
• Volume Spacers: These spacers allow you to adjust the shock’s progression, changing how it behaves during the last portion of its travel. Adding spacers can reduce bottoming out, while removing them can make the shock feel more plush.

Comparison with Similar Models

The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate stands out in its class, but it’s important to understand how it compares with other models like the Fox DHX2 or the Ohlins TTX22M.

• Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate vs. Fox DHX2: Both offer coil-sprung suspension, but the Fox DHX2 provides more options for adjusting the high-speed and low-speed compression settings. The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate, however, provides a smoother and more consistent feel for downhill riders due to its separate compression and rebound adjustments.
• Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate vs. Ohlins TTX22M: The Ohlins TTX22M offers exceptional damping performance, but the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate has the edge in terms of adjustability, offering more user-friendly settings for fine-tuning.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock is compatible with most modern full-suspension bikes. However, it’s important to verify that your bike frame’s rear triangle can accommodate the shock’s length and stroke. The shock’s mounting hardware and eyelet specifications are standardized, but always check your frame’s requirements before installation.

In terms of drivetrain compatibility, the rear shock will work seamlessly with popular 11-speed and 12-speed drivetrains. Ensure that the shock’s travel and setup match the geometry of your bike to maintain proper suspension dynamics.