The Öhlins STX22 Coil rear shock is a high-performance component designed for serious riders who demand the best in suspension technology. Whether you’re maintaining your shock for everyday rides or preparing for race day, ensuring it performs at its best is crucial. This guide will walk you through the steps of installing, adjusting, and maintaining the STX22 Coil rear shock, troubleshooting common issues, optimizing its performance, and understanding compatibility with your bike’s drivetrain components.

Tools Required

To service your Öhlins STX22 Coil rear shock, you will need the following tools:

• 8mm and 10mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• Shock pump
• O-ring sealant (e.g., Slickoleum)
• 5mm and 6mm hex keys [paid link]
• Oil drain pan
• T25 driver
• Clean microfiber cloths
• Replacement seals (if needed)
• Spring compressor (optional, but helpful)
• Suspension oil (Öhlins-specific)

Installation of the STX22 Coil Rear Shock

Installing the Öhlins STX22 Coil rear shock requires attention to detail to ensure that everything is set up properly for optimal performance. Here’s how to install it correctly:

1. Remove the Existing Shock: Begin by removing the existing rear shock from your bike. Use your 8mm and 10mm Allen wrenches [paid link] to loosen the shock bolts. Place the bike in a secure stand to prevent it from tipping over while you work.
2. Clean the Mounting Points: Before installing the new STX22, clean the mounting points on the frame thoroughly with a microfiber cloth to remove dirt and debris. This ensures a tight, secure fit.
3. Install the STX22 Coil Rear Shock: Align the eyelets of the STX22 Coil shock with the mounting points on your bike’s rear triangle. Insert the shock into the mount and tighten the bolts to the recommended torque value (usually specified in the user manual). Use your torque wrench [paid link] to ensure that the bolts are tightened correctly without over-tightening, which could damage the frame or shock.
4. Check for Proper Fit: Ensure that the shock is installed securely and that the rear triangle moves smoothly. If there is any resistance or noise, double-check the installation.
5. Adjust the Shock Length: If necessary, adjust the shock length to match your frame’s specifications. This step will typically require adjusting the preload or spring rate, which we will cover in the next section.

Adjusting Your STX22 Coil Rear Shock

The STX22 Coil rear shock is designed to offer a wide range of adjustments to tailor the ride to your preferences. Key adjustments include preload, rebound, and compression damping. Here’s how to adjust each setting for optimal performance:

Preload Adjustment

The preload adjustment controls the initial sag of the suspension. Proper sag is crucial for maintaining the correct balance of the bike.

• Locate the Preload Adjuster: The STX22 Coil features a preload ring that can be adjusted using your hands or a spring compressor for easier adjustment.
• Set the Sag: The correct sag is typically 25-30% of the total shock stroke. To adjust, simply rotate the preload ring to increase or decrease the tension on the coil spring until you achieve the desired sag.
• Check Sag with Rider Weight: Ideally, the sag should be set with your full riding gear on and in the riding position.

Rebound Damping

Rebound damping controls the speed at which the shock extends after being compressed. Too fast or too slow can affect handling.

• Locate the Rebound Knob: The rebound adjuster is usually located at the bottom of the shock body.
• Fine-tune the Rebound: Turn the rebound knob clockwise to slow down the rebound and counterclockwise to speed it up. Start with a middle setting and adjust from there based on your riding style.

Compression Damping

Compression damping affects how the shock resists compression under load. The STX22 features both high and low-speed compression adjusters.

• Locate the Compression Damping Adjusters: The high-speed compression knob is typically found near the top of the shock, while the low-speed compression adjuster is found near the shock’s body.
• Adjust Compression: Start with the low-speed compression set to the middle range, and adjust from there depending on your riding conditions (e.g., rough terrain or smoother trails). High-speed compression is generally set for more extreme impacts or big drops.

Maintenance of the STX22 Coil Rear Shock

Regular maintenance of your Öhlins STX22 Coil rear shock is necessary to ensure smooth performance and longevity. Here’s how to keep it in top condition:

Cleaning and Lubrication

• Clean the Shock Regularly: After every ride, clean the shock to remove dirt and grime that can cause wear. Use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe down the shock’s body and eyelets.
• Lubricate the Shock: Apply a thin layer of shock oil or grease to the shock’s eyelet and mounting points to reduce wear and improve performance. Be careful not to over-grease as it can attract more dirt.

Oil Change and Seal Maintenance

• Check for Oil Leaks: If you notice oil leaking from the shock body or if the performance feels inconsistent, it may be time to change the oil or replace seals.
• Drain and Replace Oil: To perform an oil change, you’ll need to remove the shock from the bike, disassemble the shock body, and drain the old oil into an oil pan. Replace with Öhlins-specific suspension oil. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the proper oil volume and viscosity.
• Replace Seals if Needed: Inspect the seals regularly for wear. If you notice any damage, replace the seals to prevent further issues with damping performance.

Troubleshooting Common Set-up Issues

While the STX22 Coil rear shock is a high-performance product, it’s not immune to occasional issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

• Excessive Sag: If the shock sags too much under your weight, increase the preload by turning the preload ring clockwise. If this doesn’t solve the problem, check if the spring rate is appropriate for your weight and riding style.
• Inconsistent Rebound: If the shock feels too bouncy or slow to return, adjust the rebound knob. If the problem persists, inspect the shock for oil leaks or internal damage.
• Noise or Creaking: Noise often comes from dirt or insufficient lubrication. Clean the shock and apply lubricant to the mounting points to eliminate the noise.

Optimizing Performance for Better Ride Quality

The STX22 Coil rear shock can be fine-tuned for various types of riding. Here are some tips for optimizing the shock for your needs:

• Trail Riding: For trail riding, set the compression damping to a medium level to balance comfort and control. Adjust the rebound to allow the shock to return quickly enough without bouncing excessively.
• Downhill and Enduro: For downhill or aggressive enduro riding, increase the compression damping to handle big hits and reduce bottoming out. Set the rebound slower to ensure the shock doesn’t extend too quickly after large impacts.

Comparing the STX22 Coil with Other Rear Shocks

While the STX22 Coil is an excellent choice for many riders, it’s important to understand how it compares to other rear shocks on the market. Some of its competitors, such as the Fox DHX2 and RockShox Super Deluxe Coil, offer similar features but differ in certain areas, such as weight, adjustability, and spring rates.

• Weight: The Öhlins STX22 Coil is slightly heavier than some air shocks, but it offers superior performance, especially for riders who prioritize ride feel over weight savings.
• Adjustability: The STX22 offers precise adjustment options, particularly with its separate high and low-speed compression damping, making it a great choice for riders who want to fine-tune their suspension.
• Spring Options: The STX22 features a wide variety of spring rates, ensuring compatibility with different rider weights and preferences.

Understanding Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Öhlins STX22 Coil rear shock is designed to be compatible with most modern mountain bikes and drivetrains. However, it’s important to ensure that your bike’s rear triangle is designed to work with coil shocks, as some frames are better suited to air shocks. Additionally, check the shock’s eyelet dimensions to ensure a proper fit. If you’re unsure, consult the manufacturer’s compatibility chart or seek professional assistance.