DIY Rear Shock Sag Setup for SIDluxe Select+

Posted on
in Uncategorized

Introduction

Setting the correct sag on your RockShox SIDluxe Select+ rear shock is a crucial step in optimizing your bike’s performance. Sag is the amount of compression the shock experiences under the rider’s weight, and it directly influences how well the suspension absorbs impacts, handles technical terrain, and provides overall comfort and control. Proper sag setup ensures that your bike handles efficiently, maintains traction, and provides a smooth ride.

In this guide, we will walk through the steps required to set the correct sag for your RockShox SIDluxe Select+ rear shock. We will also cover the tools needed, common issues, and tips for troubleshooting to achieve the best performance for your specific riding style.

Tools Required

  • Shock pump with a pressure gauge
  • Tape measure or ruler
  • Marker or tape (for measuring sag)
  • A second person (optional, but helpful)
  • A stable platform for measuring (bike stand [paid link] or ground)

Setting the Correct Sag for Your SIDluxe Select+ Rear Shock

Step 1: Prepare Your Bike

Before you begin adjusting the sag, make sure that your bike is properly set up. Ensure that the rear shock is installed correctly, with no visible damage or wear. Check that the rear tire is inflated to the correct pressure and that the bike is on a stable platform.

Step 2: Adjust the Air Pressure

The first step in setting the sag is to adjust the air pressure in your SIDluxe Select+ rear shock. The recommended air pressure will vary depending on your weight and riding style. Refer to the RockShox user manual for specific pressure guidelines, but as a general rule:

  • Lighter riders (under 150 lbs or 68 kg) typically require lower air pressure.
  • Heavier riders (over 200 lbs or 90 kg) may need higher air pressure.

To adjust the air pressure:

  1. Attach your shock pump to the valve on your SIDluxe Select+.
  2. Inflate the shock until you reach the recommended starting pressure.
  3. If you’re unsure, start with a baseline and fine-tune it after testing the sag.

Step 3: Set the Rider in Position

To accurately measure sag, the rider must be in a riding position. It’s best to wear your usual riding gear and shoes to replicate real-world conditions. If possible, enlist a friend to help you by supporting the bike while you get into position.

  1. Position the bike on a stable surface, such as a bike stand [paid link] or the ground.
  2. Stand in your normal riding stance and sit on the saddle, placing all your weight on the bike.
  3. Ensure that the bike is upright and stable, allowing the shock to compress naturally under your weight.

Step 4: Measure the Sag

Once you’re in position, you can measure how much the shock compresses. The sag measurement is the distance the shock compresses from its fully extended position.

  1. Use a marker or a small piece of tape to mark the shock’s current position before you mount the bike. This will serve as your “full extension” mark.
  2. While you are still seated on the bike, have your helper measure the distance the shock compresses.
  3. The ideal sag for the SIDluxe Select+ typically falls between 25-30% of the shock’s total travel. For example, if your shock has 100mm of travel, a 25mm to 30mm compression is the target sag range.

Step 5: Adjust the Air Pressure

If the sag measurement falls outside of the desired range, adjust the air pressure. Increasing the pressure will reduce the sag (making the bike stiffer), while decreasing the pressure will increase the sag (making the bike softer). After making adjustments:

  1. Re-measure the sag to confirm that it falls within the desired range.
  2. Repeat the process of adjusting the air pressure and measuring the sag until you achieve the desired compression.

Step 6: Fine-Tune Your Setup

Once you’ve set the correct sag, it’s important to test ride the bike. Take it on various terrain types, including climbs, descents, and technical sections, to assess how the shock performs. Fine-tune the air pressure as necessary to match your riding style, terrain preferences, and comfort level.

Common Setup Issues and Troubleshooting

Incorrect Sag Measurement

If your sag measurement consistently falls outside the desired range, there are a few potential causes:

  • Incorrect pressure setting: Double-check your starting air pressure. If you’re unsure, consult the RockShox manual or use online calculators that can help you determine a baseline pressure based on your weight and riding style.
  • Incorrect measurement technique: Make sure that you’re measuring the shock’s compression accurately. Check the position of the shock while you are seated on the bike and verify that the mark you made is still visible.
  • Rider weight: If you notice that the shock feels either too stiff or too soft after adjusting the air pressure, consider adjusting based on personal comfort and performance preferences, especially if you are near the upper or lower weight limits for the recommended air pressure range.

No Sag Adjustment

If you’re unable to achieve the correct sag, it could be a sign that your shock’s air spring is not functioning properly. This could happen due to internal issues, such as worn-out seals or low-quality oil, which may require a service. In such cases, contact a professional mechanic or service center to inspect the shock.

Customization and Optimization

The SIDluxe Select+ rear shock offers a range of tuning options to further customize your setup. Adjusting the rebound, compression, and air spring can help fine-tune the bike’s overall feel, depending on the terrain and your personal preferences.

  • Rebound adjustment: Fine-tune the shock’s rebound damping to control how quickly the shock returns to its full extension after compression. Faster rebound speeds provide more traction, while slower rebound speeds can increase stability.
  • Compression adjustment: Adjust the shock’s compression damping to suit your riding style and terrain. A softer compression setting allows for greater comfort, while a firmer setting improves efficiency on smooth trails or roads.
  • Volume spacers: Experiment with adding or removing volume spacers to change the shock’s spring curve. This allows you to modify the shock’s performance for specific riding conditions, like more progressive travel for big hits or more linear travel for smoother terrain.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

When setting up the SIDluxe Select+, it’s important to ensure that the shock is compatible with your bike’s frame and other drivetrain components. The SIDluxe Select+ is designed for a wide variety of full-suspension bikes, but make sure that the shock’s eye-to-eye length, stroke length, and mount type align with your frame’s specifications.

It’s also worth noting that the shock’s performance can be affected by other suspension components. Ensure that your fork, wheels, and tires are tuned to complement the shock’s setup for optimal performance. Incompatible components may lead to a poor ride quality or inefficient suspension performance.

Conclusion

Achieving the correct sag on your RockShox SIDluxe Select+ rear shock is a fundamental part of your bike setup. By carefully following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your shock provides optimal comfort, control, and performance on a variety of terrain. Remember to regularly check and adjust the air pressure as needed to maintain the ideal sag and keep your bike riding smoothly.