When it comes to optimizing the performance of your road bike, upgrading your suspension system is one of the most effective modifications you can make. The STX22 Air Rear Shocks from Öhlins offer superior performance, comfort, and durability, making them a popular choice among cyclists seeking to enhance their ride quality. This guide will provide you with detailed instructions on installing, adjusting, maintaining, and troubleshooting the STX22 Air Rear Shocks, as well as tips for optimizing performance and compatibility with other drivetrain components.

Installation of the STX22 Air Rear Shocks

The STX22 Air Rear Shocks are designed to provide exceptional comfort and control on rough terrain. Installing these shocks properly is crucial to ensuring optimal performance and safety. Here is a step-by-step guide for installation.

Tools Required:

• 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• 10mm spanner
• Shock pump (compatible with Öhlins shocks)
• Grease (preferably a waterproof bike-specific grease)
• Suspension-specific oil (as recommended by Öhlins)

Installation Steps:

1. Prepare the Bike: Begin by securing your bike in a workstand. Ensure that the rear wheel is removed, as this will give you better access to the rear shock area.
2. Remove the Old Shock: Using a 5mm Allen wrench [paid link], loosen and remove the bolts securing the old shock to the frame. Take care to support the shock as you remove it to avoid damaging the frame.
3. Apply Grease: Apply a small amount of grease to the mounting hardware where the shock will be installed. This will help reduce friction and prevent corrosion over time.
4. Install the STX22 Air Shock: Position the new STX22 Air shock into the mounting points on the frame. Use the provided bolts and tighten them to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. Be sure not to overtighten, as this can damage the shock or the frame.
5. Set the Shock Pressure: Attach the shock pump to the valve on the STX22 Air shock and set the appropriate pressure according to your weight and riding style. The recommended pressure range can typically be found in the user manual. This pressure will affect the overall responsiveness of the shock, so make adjustments based on your riding preferences.
6. Check the Setup: Once the shock is installed, check for any movement or play in the shock. It should be securely mounted with no lateral or vertical motion. Test the suspension by compressing the shock manually to ensure it operates smoothly.
7. Reassemble the Bike: Reinstall the rear wheel and any other components that were removed during the installation process. Check that everything is properly tightened.

Adjusting the STX22 Air Rear Shocks

The STX22 Air Rear Shocks offer a range of adjustments that allow you to fine-tune the suspension to suit your riding style and terrain. Proper adjustment will ensure that you get the most out of your upgrade. Here’s how to make the necessary adjustments:

Rebound Damping:

Rebound damping controls how quickly the shock returns to its original position after compression. Adjusting this is important for maintaining control when riding over rough terrain.

1. Turn the rebound adjustment knob clockwise to increase damping and slow the return speed.
2. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease damping and allow the shock to return more quickly.

Compression Damping:

Compression damping controls how much resistance the shock offers when it compresses. For smoother rides on rough terrain, you may want to adjust the compression setting.

1. Adjust the compression knob on the shock to suit your riding style. Turn it clockwise to increase resistance for a firmer ride, or counterclockwise to decrease resistance for a more plush feel.

Air Pressure:

The air pressure in the shock is critical for controlling the suspension’s firmness. Adjust the pressure based on your weight and riding conditions:

1. Use a shock pump to add or release air to the shock. Check the user manual for recommended pressure ranges specific to your weight and style of riding.

Volume Spacers:

Volume spacers can be added or removed to change the shock’s air volume, allowing for more or less compression before bottoming out. More spacers generally provide a firmer feel, while fewer spacers allow for more air volume and a softer feel.

Maintaining the STX22 Air Rear Shocks

Proper maintenance is essential to keeping your STX22 Air Rear Shocks in top condition. Routine maintenance will ensure that they continue to perform optimally and last for years. Here are some key maintenance tasks to keep in mind:

Cleaning the Shock:

1. Regularly clean the shock after every ride using a soft cloth and mild soap. This will remove dirt and debris that could potentially affect the shock’s performance.
2. Avoid using high-pressure water or harsh chemicals, as they could damage the seals or internal components.

Replacing the Air Seal:

The air seal prevents dirt and moisture from entering the shock’s internal components. Over time, these seals can wear out and need to be replaced.

1. Inspect the seals for signs of wear or leakage regularly.
2. When replacing seals, ensure you use the specific parts recommended by Öhlins for the STX22 Air shock to ensure compatibility and performance.

Lubricating the Shock:

The moving parts of the shock should be lubricated with suspension-specific oil to reduce friction and prevent damage.

1. Apply a small amount of oil to the shock’s shaft and any moving parts after cleaning.
2. Be sure not to over-lubricate, as excess oil can attract dirt and grime.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with the STX22 Air Rear Shocks

While the STX22 Air Rear Shocks are highly reliable, issues can arise from time to time. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

Problem: Shock feels too firm or too soft.

• Cause: Incorrect air pressure or compression settings.
• Solution: Check and adjust the air pressure to the recommended range for your weight. If the shock feels too firm, reduce the pressure; if it’s too soft, increase the pressure. Also, review the compression settings and adjust them to your preference.

Problem: Loss of rebound control.

• Cause: Incorrect rebound damping settings or shock not properly seated.
• Solution: Check the rebound damping knob to ensure it’s set correctly. If the shock is not seated correctly, ensure it is securely mounted to the frame.

Problem: Leaking air or oil.

• Cause: Damaged seals or a poorly maintained shock.
• Solution: Inspect the seals for wear and replace them if necessary. Clean the shock thoroughly and lubricate the moving parts to prevent excessive wear.

Optimizing the STX22 Air Rear Shocks for Better Performance

To extract the best performance from your STX22 Air Rear Shocks, consider these tips for further optimization:

Tune for Your Terrain:

The STX22 Air Rear Shocks can be fine-tuned for various terrain types. For aggressive mountain descents, increase compression damping and air pressure for a firmer ride. For smoother, flatter roads, reduce compression damping and air pressure for a more comfortable ride.

Weight Distribution:

The ideal suspension setup varies depending on the weight distribution of your bike and rider position. Adjusting air pressure and rebound damping to match your riding posture will improve comfort and handling.

Use Volume Spacers:

If you frequently ride on technical trails with lots of sharp bumps, adding more volume spacers to the STX22 Air shock can help prevent bottoming out and improve overall performance.

Comparing the STX22 Air Rear Shocks with Other Models

When selecting a rear shock for your road bike, it’s essential to consider different models to ensure compatibility and performance. Here’s how the STX22 Air Rear Shock compares to other popular models in the market.

• STX22 Air vs. X2 Air: The STX22 Air offers excellent performance for mid-range mountain biking, while the X2 Air provides more advanced features and is better suited for professional-level racing and extreme trails.
• STX22 Air vs. Fox Float DPS: Both offer high-quality performance, but the STX22 Air is known for its lightweight design, making it a preferred choice for cyclists who prioritize weight savings.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

When upgrading to the STX22 Air Rear Shock, ensure that it’s compatible with other drivetrain components, particularly the rear suspension linkage. The STX22 Air works well with most modern road bike frames, but it’s always essential to check the manufacturer’s specifications to confirm compatibility with your existing setup.