The Jade Coil [paid link] Rear Shock from DVO is a high-performance suspension component known for its durability and advanced technology. Servicing and maintaining your Jade Coil [paid link] properly ensures optimal performance and longevity. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to maintain, adjust, and troubleshoot your Jade Coil rear shock, along with tips for customization and ensuring compatibility with other drivetrain components.
Tools Required
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Shock pump
- Soft cloths or towels
- 5mm, 6mm, and 8mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
- 8mm or 10mm box wrenches
- 1/4″ drive ratchet and socket set
- DVO-specific oil (available from authorized dealers)
- Isopropyl alcohol for cleaning
- Grease (preferably suspension-specific)
- Fork oil level tool or similar
- Shock seal kit (if needed)
Installation and Setup of the Jade Coil Rear Shock
Step 1: Remove the Old Shock (if applicable)
Before installing the new Jade Coil rear shock, remove the existing shock from your bike. To do this, use a 5mm Allen wrench [paid link] to remove the bolts securing the shock to both the frame and the swingarm. Keep track of any washers or spacers as they may be needed for reinstallation.
Step 2: Prepare the New Shock
Once you have your Jade Coil rear shock ready for installation, use a soft cloth to clean the shock’s mounting areas and remove any debris. Apply a small amount of suspension-specific grease to the shock’s eyelet bushings to ensure smooth installation and prevent any noise from occurring during compression.
Step 3: Install the Shock
Position the shock in place, aligning the mounting points. Use the 6mm or 8mm Allen wrench [paid link] to tighten the bolts securing the shock to the frame and swingarm. Make sure to torque the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended values, typically between 150-250 in-lb depending on the frame type. Be sure not to overtighten the bolts to avoid damaging the shock mount.
Step 4: Adjust Spring Preload
The Jade Coil features an adjustable spring preload. This adjustment allows you to fine-tune the amount of sag and responsiveness for different rider weights and riding styles. Use a shock pump to inflate the air chamber to the appropriate pressure as recommended by DVO. Afterward, adjust the preload to suit your preferences.
Step 5: Verify Functionality
With the shock installed, check the functionality by compressing and releasing the shock a few times. Ensure smooth travel and that the shock is properly seated in its mounts.
Adjusting the Jade Coil Rear Shock
Compression and Rebound Settings
The Jade Coil rear shock comes equipped with both compression and rebound adjustments, allowing you to fine-tune the shock’s performance to your riding style and terrain.
- Compression Adjustments: This controls how quickly the shock compresses under load. Adjust the high-speed and low-speed compression dials to suit the type of terrain you will be riding. On rougher trails, you may want to stiffen the compression to prevent bottoming out, while smoother trails may benefit from a more supple feel.
- Rebound Adjustments: The rebound dial controls how quickly the shock returns after compression. For most riders, setting the rebound to a medium speed is optimal, but it can be adjusted depending on your preferences. Slower rebound settings are typically used for smoother, more controlled rides, while faster settings work well for aggressive riders who require more pop from their suspension.
Spring Rate Selection
One of the key features of the Jade Coil is its adjustable spring rate. The coil spring can be swapped to accommodate different rider weights and preferences. For a proper setup, ensure that your spring rate is suitable for your weight, allowing for about 30-35% of travel sag. Too soft or too stiff a spring can negatively impact the performance of the shock and lead to discomfort.
Fine-Tuning the Settings
For optimal performance, it is important to adjust both compression and rebound based on real-world testing. Begin with the recommended settings in the manual and then adjust as necessary after riding. Pay attention to how the shock performs during climbs, descents, and rough terrain to make any necessary adjustments.
Maintenance of the Jade Coil Rear Shock
Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your Jade Coil rear shock in peak [paid link] working condition. Follow these tips for routine care:
- Clean the Shock Regularly: Dirt and debris can cause wear on the shock’s seals. After each ride, wipe the shock body with a clean, dry cloth. Use isopropyl alcohol to remove any heavy grime or oils that may accumulate.
- Inspect the Seals: Inspect the shock’s seals for wear. If you notice any leaks or loss of oil, it may be time to replace the seals. DVO offers a specific seal kit for the Jade Coil, which you can use to perform seal replacements.
- Check the Air Pressure: Although the Jade Coil uses a coil spring, the air chamber still plays a crucial role in its performance. Check the air pressure using a shock pump regularly, ensuring that it maintains the correct PSI. Low air pressure can negatively affect shock performance, while excessive air pressure can lead to premature wear.
- Lubricate the Shock: Periodically apply a small amount of suspension-specific grease to the shock’s bushings to maintain smooth movement and prevent wear. Do not over-grease, as excess lubrication can attract dirt and dust.
- Service the Shock Annually: At least once a year, it’s advisable to perform a full service on your Jade Coil rear shock. This includes draining the oil, replacing worn seals, and ensuring that all internal components are clean and functioning properly.
Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues
1. Lack of Rebound
If your shock feels too fast or too slow when rebounding, check that the rebound knob is correctly set. If the problem persists, it could be a sign that the shock’s internal oil needs to be replaced or that the rebound valve is clogged.
2. Bottoming Out
If you experience bottoming out frequently, it could be due to insufficient compression settings, too soft a spring rate, or low air pressure. Adjust the compression damping or replace the coil spring with a stiffer one to prevent excessive travel.
3. Leaking Oil
A small amount of oil around the shock body is normal; however, if there’s a noticeable leak, it’s essential to inspect the seals. If the seals are damaged or degraded, replace them using the proper seal kit.
4. Noisy Shock
Unusual noises can be caused by dirt buildup or insufficient lubrication in the shock’s bushings. Clean and lubricate the shock to resolve this issue. If the noise persists, check the mounting hardware for tightness and ensure there is no play in the frame.
Customizing Your Jade Coil Rear Shock for Performance
Fine-Tuning the Spring Preload
Adjusting the preload on your coil spring can make a significant difference in how the shock performs, especially if you’re looking to optimize it for specific types of riding. Experiment with different preload settings to find the best balance between comfort and control.
Upgrading the Spring
If you’re not satisfied with the stock spring, you can upgrade to a stiffer or lighter coil depending on your weight and riding style. Swapping out the spring is a relatively easy task and can be done with basic tools. DVO offers a variety of springs that can be paired with the Jade Coil shock for different performance characteristics.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Jade Coil rear shock is compatible with a wide range of modern mountain bike frames. However, to ensure optimal performance, make sure that your frame is designed to work with a coil shock. Some frames may require additional adapters or specific mount hardware, which can be sourced from the bike manufacturer or DVO.
It is also essential to ensure that your bike’s drivetrain and suspension systems are aligned in terms of travel and shock compression rates. Using a shock that is compatible with your bike’s geometry will help maintain efficient pedaling and braking performance, avoiding any potential interference between suspension and drivetrain components.