The Öhlins STX22 Coil Rear Shock is a high-performance suspension component that stands out in the world of mountain biking for its premium design and superior functionality. Whether you are looking to enhance your bike’s performance or ensure a smoother, more controlled ride, the STX22 Coil offers exceptional benefits for riders seeking a responsive and durable rear shock. This guide covers everything you need to know about installing, adjusting, maintaining, and troubleshooting the STX22 Coil, along with tips on customization, performance optimization, and compatibility with other components.

Key Features of the STX22 Coil Rear Shock

The STX22 Coil Rear Shock is known for its robust construction and adjustable settings, making it an excellent choice for riders who demand precision and performance. Some of the standout features include:

• Coil Spring Design: The coil spring offers a more consistent and predictable performance compared to air-sprung shocks, making it ideal for aggressive riders and those tackling challenging terrain.
• Twin Tube Technology: This technology enhances damping consistency and provides superior heat dissipation, which improves overall ride quality during extended descents or rough conditions.
• External Compression and Rebound Adjustments: The STX22 allows fine-tuning of both compression and rebound settings, giving you greater control over the shock’s behavior based on your riding style and terrain.
• Durability and Reliability: Built with Öhlins’ trademark engineering quality, the STX22 is designed to withstand the demands of high-impact riding while offering consistent performance for years.

Installation of the STX22 Coil Rear Shock

Proper installation of the STX22 Coil Rear Shock is essential for achieving the best performance and ensuring that the shock functions optimally.

Tools Required:

• Torque wrench [paid link]
• 5mm and 6mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
• Suspension pump (for preload adjustment)
• Soft cloth or towel (for protection during installation)
• Lubricant (for mounting hardware)

Step-by-Step Installation:

1. Remove the Existing Shock: Begin by removing the old rear shock from the bike frame. Use a 5mm or 6mm Allen wrench [paid link] to loosen the bolts at both ends of the shock. Carefully slide it out of its mounting position.
2. Prepare the New Shock: Before installing the STX22, check if the shock comes with mounting hardware that needs to be swapped from the old shock. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the shock’s eyelets to ease installation.
3. Install the New Shock: Align the STX22 with the shock mounts on the bike frame. Insert the top and bottom eyelets into the respective mounts. Use a torque wrench [paid link] to tighten the mounting bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque setting.
4. Adjust the Preload: Using the suspension pump, adjust the preload of the coil spring to match your rider weight and riding style. Ensure the spring is firmly seated and the preload is within the recommended range for optimal performance.
5. Check for Secure Mounting: After installation, double-check all bolts to ensure they are tightened correctly. Test the shock by compressing it gently to ensure it moves smoothly and responds as expected.

Adjusting the STX22 Coil Rear Shock

The STX22 Coil Rear Shock comes equipped with external compression and rebound adjusters that allow riders to fine-tune the shock’s response. Understanding how to adjust these settings can drastically improve your bike’s handling and comfort.

Compression Adjustment:

• High-speed compression controls the shock’s response to quick hits, such as roots and rocks. If you’re riding on rough terrain or aggressive trails, increase the high-speed compression to prevent excessive bottoming out.
• Low-speed compression affects the shock’s behavior during more gradual impacts like terrain undulations. Adjusting this allows you to balance comfort and performance.

Rebound Adjustment:

• The rebound dial controls how quickly the shock returns to its original position after being compressed. A fast rebound setting is suitable for smoother terrain, while a slower setting helps to prevent the shock from rebounding too quickly during fast descents.

Maintenance of the STX22 Coil Rear Shock

Regular maintenance of the STX22 Coil Rear Shock ensures its longevity and performance. Follow these steps to keep your shock in optimal condition:

1. Cleaning: After each ride, clean the shock with a soft cloth and mild soapy water to remove dirt and grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the seals or finish.
2. Check for Leaks: Inspect the shock for any oil or air leaks, especially around the seals. If you notice any leakage, it may indicate a problem that requires servicing.
3. Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply lubricant to the shock’s moving parts, such as the mounting hardware and the eyelets, to maintain smooth operation.
4. Spring Maintenance: Check the coil spring periodically for wear or damage. If the spring shows signs of fatigue, it may need to be replaced for optimal performance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with the STX22 Coil Rear Shock

While the STX22 Coil Rear Shock is built to last, riders may encounter occasional issues. Here are some common problems and solutions:

• Excessive Bottoming Out: If the shock is bottoming out too often, it may be under-preloaded or have insufficient compression settings. Increase the preload or adjust the compression settings to prevent this from happening.
• Rebound Issues: If the rebound is too slow or too fast, adjust the rebound knob accordingly. If the shock still doesn’t behave correctly after adjustments, it could indicate internal damage or a need for servicing.
• Noise from the Shock: Unusual noises, such as squeaking or clunking, can occur due to dirt buildup or improper lubrication. Clean and lubricate the shock as described in the maintenance section. If the noise persists, inspect the seals for wear.

Customization and Optimization of the STX22 Coil Rear Shock

The STX22 Coil Rear Shock is highly customizable, allowing riders to optimize the shock for specific riding conditions. To get the most out of your shock, consider the following tips:

• Coil Spring Selection: Öhlins offers a range of coil springs with different spring rates. Select a spring that matches your riding style, rider weight, and terrain. A heavier rider or aggressive riding style may benefit from a stiffer spring.
• Fine-Tuning Compression Settings: Experiment with different compression settings based on your trail conditions. For smoother trails, use a lower compression setting, while rough, rocky trails may require higher compression to prevent bottoming out.
• Rebound Settings for Different Terrain: On steep descents, adjust the rebound to a slower setting to avoid the shock rebounding too quickly, which can cause instability. For flatter terrain, a faster rebound setting can increase comfort and control.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The STX22 Coil Rear Shock is compatible with most modern mountain bike frames, but it’s crucial to ensure that the shock is matched correctly to your bike’s drivetrain components. The coil spring design works well with a wide range of suspension designs, but you should verify that the shock’s eyelet sizing and mounting hardware are compatible with your bike frame.

Additionally, pairing the STX22 with a suitable fork and matching suspension travel can enhance overall ride quality and performance. Make sure that the rear shock’s travel matches the front fork to maintain a balanced suspension system.

Conclusion

The Öhlins STX22 Coil Rear Shock stands out for its exceptional performance, durability, and customizable features. Whether you’re looking for a shock that can handle aggressive riding or one that provides smoother control over varied terrain, the STX22 offers versatile adjustments to meet your needs. By properly installing, adjusting, and maintaining this shock, you can significantly improve your bike’s handling and comfort, making it an indispensable component for serious riders.