The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate from RockShox stands out as one of the most sought-after rear shock models in the mountain biking community. Designed for riders who demand precision, performance, and durability, this rear shock has become a favorite choice for aggressive riders looking to optimize their suspension setup. In this guide, we’ll dive into a detailed comparison between the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate and some of its competitors, providing a comprehensive analysis that will help you make an informed decision about your suspension system.

Overview of the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate

The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock is renowned for its premium build quality, advanced features, and adjustable options, making it a top-tier choice for riders looking for optimal performance in rough and technical terrain. The shock incorporates a high-performance damper and coil spring, offering superior comfort and control on demanding trails. Its versatility and adjustability allow riders to fine-tune their suspension for specific riding styles, ensuring a smooth and responsive ride.

Key Features of the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate:

• RC2 Damper: This dual-speed compression and rebound damper provides exceptional control and support across various types of terrain.
• Coil Spring: Offers a more consistent feel and better performance in extreme conditions compared to air springs.
• External Adjustments: Fine-tune the shock’s performance with external adjustments for rebound, compression, and spring preload.
• Weight: It’s designed to be lightweight, offering high performance without adding unnecessary bulk.

Installation, Adjustment, and Maintenance

Installation of the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate

Installing the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate requires careful attention to the shock’s placement and alignment with your frame. Here are the key steps for proper installation:

1. Remove the old shock: Carefully remove the old rear shock from your frame by unscrewing the mounting bolts.
2. Install the new shock: Attach the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate by securing the mounting bolts into the appropriate mounts on your bike frame. Ensure that the shock is positioned in line with the suspension linkage for optimal performance.
3. Set the spring preload: Adjust the coil spring preload according to your weight and riding preferences. This ensures that the shock has the right amount of tension for efficient performance.
4. Adjust the rebound and compression: Using the external adjusters, fine-tune the rebound and compression settings for optimal responsiveness and control on your rides.
5. Check the air can: Before completing the installation, ensure that the air can is properly pressurized and secured.

Adjustment of the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate

Adjustments to the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate are straightforward and allow you to dial in the shock for the best possible ride:

• Rebound Damping: Adjust the rebound damping to control how quickly the shock returns to its original position after compression. A slower rebound is ideal for rough terrain, while a faster rebound suits smoother conditions.
• Compression Damping: The two-position compression adjuster allows you to switch between open and firm modes, providing better control and responsiveness on different terrain types.
• Spring Preload: Adjust the preload by tightening or loosening the coil spring to match your weight and riding style. A higher preload provides more resistance, while a lower preload makes the shock more sensitive.

Maintenance of the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate

Regular maintenance is essential for ensuring the longevity and performance of your Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate:

• Clean the shock after each ride: Dirt and debris can accumulate on the shock body, so use a clean cloth to wipe it down regularly.
• Check the coil spring tension: Over time, the spring may lose tension, which can affect the shock’s performance. Inspect the spring tension periodically and adjust as needed.
• Rebuild the damper: To maintain optimal damping performance, it’s advisable to have the damper rebuilt every 50-100 hours of riding, depending on usage and conditions.

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

1. Bottoming Out:

If you find that the shock is bottoming out too frequently, the issue may lie in the spring rate or preload settings. Adjusting the spring preload or switching to a firmer spring can resolve this issue.

2. Excessive Rebound:

If the shock feels too bouncy or sluggish when returning to its extended position, check the rebound setting. Adjust it to ensure the shock returns smoothly but doesn’t rebound too quickly.

3. Squeaking or Noises:

If you hear unusual noises coming from the shock, inspect the mounting hardware for tightness and lubrication. Additionally, check for any debris that could be causing friction.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate offers a range of customization options that allow riders to optimize the shock for their specific needs:

• Coil Spring Choices: RockShox provides a wide range of coil springs with different rates, allowing riders to choose the one that best suits their riding style, body weight, and terrain.
• Fine-Tuning the Damper: The RC2 damper gives riders the ability to make minute adjustments to both compression and rebound, ensuring that the shock can be dialed in for a perfect balance between comfort and control.

Comparison with Similar Models

When comparing the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate to other rear shocks, several key differences emerge that set it apart from its competitors, such as the Fox DHX2 and the Ohlins TTX Coil.

Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate vs. Fox DHX2:

• Damper Design: The Fox DHX2 also features an adjustable damper but offers a slightly more complex set of adjustments with high- and low-speed compression. The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate, with its RC2 damper, provides a simpler and more user-friendly design, but both shocks offer excellent control.
• Spring Tuning: Both shocks use coil springs, but the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate is often seen as more durable and consistent over time, particularly in rough terrain.
• Weight: The Fox DHX2 is slightly heavier than the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate, which might be a consideration for riders looking to minimize weight while maintaining performance.

Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate vs. Ohlins TTX Coil:

• Performance: While the Ohlins TTX Coil offers a high-performance damping system, the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate provides a more affordable alternative with comparable performance in terms of shock absorption and control.
• Adjustability: The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate’s simpler adjustment controls are easier to use than the more complicated settings found on the Ohlins TTX Coil. However, the Ohlins TTX Coil offers additional fine-tuning capabilities for expert riders.
• Price: The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate is often more budget-friendly compared to the Ohlins TTX Coil, which is priced at a premium due to its advanced features.

Understanding Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate is designed to be compatible with a wide range of mountain bike frames, but it’s essential to ensure that your frame can accommodate the shock’s dimensions, especially when it comes to mounting options. Before purchasing, double-check that the shock’s eye-to-eye length and stroke are compatible with your bike’s suspension system. This compatibility ensures optimal performance and safety.

Additionally, the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate is best paired with a drivetrain that can handle the added load and performance demands of a high-quality rear shock. Opt for a bike that is designed to support aggressive riding styles for the best experience with the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate.