Reviewing the Performance of TTXAir 2.1 Rear Shocks

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The Öhlins TTXAir 2.1 rear shock is designed for serious cyclists looking to upgrade their mountain bike or road bike suspension system. Known for its high-performance features, the TTXAir 2.1 integrates the TTX damper technology, bringing advanced adjustments and optimized suspension characteristics to riders. This article delves into the installation, adjustment, and maintenance of the TTXAir 2.1, as well as its compatibility with other components and troubleshooting common issues.

Installation of the Öhlins TTXAir 2.1 Rear Shock

The installation of the TTXAir 2.1 is straightforward for experienced bike mechanics, but it requires precision to ensure optimal performance. Below is a step-by-step guide to install this rear shock properly.

Tools Required:

Installation Steps:

  1. Remove the Existing Rear Shock: Begin by removing the existing shock. Use a torque wrench [paid link] and an appropriate Allen wrench [paid link] to carefully unscrew the shock from the frame. Keep the fasteners and hardware as you will need them for reinstallation.
  2. Clean the Mounting Points: Clean both the shock mounting points on the frame and the shock’s mounting hardware with a clean rag to ensure no dirt or debris interferes with the installation.
  3. Apply Suspension Grease: Apply a thin layer of suspension grease to the mounting hardware to ensure smooth installation and to prevent creaking over time.
  4. Install the TTXAir 2.1: Position the shock into the frame, aligning the eyelets with the mounting points. Insert the hardware and fasten the shock with the proper torque, ensuring it’s securely tightened according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
  5. Check the Shock’s Position: Once mounted, check the shock’s position to ensure it is properly aligned. There should be no interference with the frame.
  6. Set Sag and Rebound: Before riding, it’s important to set the sag and adjust the rebound damping according to your weight and riding style (explained in the next section).

Adjusting the TTXAir 2.1 Rear Shock for Optimal Performance

The TTXAir 2.1 rear shock offers several adjustments that allow riders to fine-tune their suspension for different terrain types and riding styles. Proper adjustment of the shock is key to extracting the best performance.

Sag Adjustment:

Sag refers to the amount of shock compression under the rider’s weight. It’s crucial for comfort and control. To adjust the sag on the TTXAir 2.1:

  1. Inflate the Shock: Use a shock pump to set the air pressure. Start with the recommended baseline air pressure, which is typically listed in the user manual.
  2. Check the Sag: With the bike on a stable surface, mount it and assume a normal riding position. Measure the distance the shock compresses under your weight. Typically, the recommended sag for most riders is around 25-30% of the shock’s total travel.
  3. Adjust Air Pressure: If the sag is too low (too stiff), reduce the air pressure. If the sag is too high (too soft), increase the air pressure until the desired sag is achieved.

Rebound Damping Adjustment:

The rebound adjustment controls how quickly the shock returns to its original position after compression. This is important for maintaining control, especially when riding over uneven terrain.

  1. Locate the Rebound Dial: On the TTXAir 2.1, the rebound dial is typically found at the bottom of the shock.
  2. Adjust the Rebound Speed: Turn the dial clockwise to slow down the rebound and counterclockwise to speed it up. A slower rebound helps prevent bouncing, while a faster rebound provides quicker responses.
  3. Test the Settings: After making adjustments, take the bike for a short test ride and observe how the shock reacts. Fine-tune the rebound to suit your riding preferences.

Compression Damping Adjustment:

The TTXAir 2.1 also features high and low-speed compression damping adjustments, which affect how the shock behaves under different forces.

  1. Adjust Low-Speed Compression: This affects how the shock behaves under small forces, such as when pedaling. Adjusting this setting can help optimize pedaling efficiency and prevent the shock from “spiking” on small impacts.
  2. Adjust High-Speed Compression: This adjustment affects how the shock responds to large, fast hits, such as landing from jumps or hitting rough terrain. Fine-tuning this setting can enhance control and smoothness.

Maintenance of the TTXAir 2.1 Rear Shock

Routine maintenance is essential to keep the TTXAir 2.1 in top condition. This includes cleaning, servicing, and inspecting the shock for wear and tear.

Cleaning:

  1. Wipe Down the Shock: After each ride, use a clean cloth to wipe down the shock body, removing dirt and debris. This helps prevent contamination of the shock’s seals.
  2. Inspect Seals for Wear: Periodically check the seals for signs of damage. Damaged seals can lead to air or oil leaks, which reduce the shock’s performance.

Servicing:

  1. Air Spring Service: Every 100-150 hours of riding or annually, service the air spring to ensure it maintains proper pressure and smooth movement. This service can be performed by a professional mechanic.
  2. Damper Oil Change: The damper oil should be changed every 150-200 hours of use. Oil changes help maintain the shock’s performance and prevent internal damage.
  3. Full Suspension Service: If you experience a decrease in performance, such as loss of damping control, it may be time for a full service, including disassembling the shock for internal cleaning and oil replacement.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with the TTXAir 2.1 Rear Shock

Even the best components can encounter problems. Here are some common issues and solutions for the TTXAir 2.1.

Loss of Air Pressure:

  • Cause: Air loss can occur if the shock is not properly sealed or the valve is damaged.
  • Solution: Inspect the valve and seals for damage. If the valve is leaking, replace the valve core. If air pressure continues to drop, the shock may need to be serviced.

Unstable Rebound:

  • Cause: Excessive or insufficient rebound damping can lead to instability.
  • Solution: Adjust the rebound setting to find the right balance. If the issue persists, check for any oil leakage or internal damper issues that require professional service.

No Suspension Travel:

  • Cause: If the shock fails to compress or rebound, the air spring might be damaged or under-inflated.
  • Solution: Recheck the air pressure and adjust it according to your weight and riding style. If the problem persists, consult a professional mechanic.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The TTXAir 2.1 rear shock is primarily a suspension component, so its compatibility with other drivetrain components is less of a concern. However, it is essential to ensure that the shock is mounted on a compatible frame designed to handle the shock’s dimensions and travel. Always consult your bike’s frame manufacturer for compatibility details.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

To achieve the best performance from the TTXAir 2.1, riders can experiment with different shock settings based on their specific riding style. Adjusting compression and rebound damping can enhance performance for downhill racing, trail riding, or enduro disciplines. Additionally, pairing the TTXAir 2.1 with other Öhlins suspension components can help optimize the overall performance of your bike.

Conclusion

The Öhlins TTXAir 2.1 rear shock is a highly customizable, performance-oriented shock that excels in a variety of riding conditions. Its advanced features, such as high and low-speed compression, rebound damping, and air spring adjustment, allow riders to fine-tune their suspension system for optimal comfort, control, and efficiency. Proper installation, regular maintenance, and precise adjustment are essential to ensure the longevity and peak performance of the TTXAir 2.1. With its superior design and high adjustability, the TTXAir 2.1 remains a top choice for serious cyclists seeking the best in suspension technology.