Extend the Life of Your Bomber CR Coil Rear Shock with These DIY Hacks

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The Marzocchi Bomber CR Coil [paid link] rear shock is a durable, high-performance shock designed for riders who seek superior control and comfort on challenging trails. While the Bomber CR Coil [paid link] is built to withstand tough conditions, proper maintenance and regular adjustments are key to ensuring it continues to perform at its best for years. This guide will cover installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and customization tips to help you extend the life of your rear shock, as well as provide a comparison with other similar models to guide your decision-making process.

Installation of the Bomber CR Coil Rear Shock

Installing the Marzocchi Bomber CR Coil rear shock requires precision and the right tools to ensure a smooth and secure fit. Follow these steps to install your shock correctly:

Tools Required:

Installation Steps:

  1. Remove the Existing Shock: If you’re replacing an old shock, begin by removing it from your bike frame. Use the appropriate Allen wrenches [paid link] to unscrew the mounting bolts. Keep these bolts as you’ll need them for the new shock.
  2. Prepare the New Shock: Before installing the Bomber CR Coil, apply a thin layer of grease to the shock’s mounting hardware to avoid creaking and ensure smooth operation.
  3. Attach the Shock to the Frame: Position the Bomber CR Coil rear shock in place on the frame. Secure the mounting bolts tightly with your Allen wrench [paid link], ensuring the shock is aligned properly with the frame’s shock mounts.
  4. Check the Shock Orientation: Ensure that the rebound and compression adjustment dials are easily accessible. Adjust the shock’s orientation if needed.
  5. Tighten the Mounting Bolts: Using a torque wrench [paid link], tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque settings to avoid over-tightening.
  6. Set the Sag: Use a shock pump to set the correct air pressure for your body weight and riding style. The Bomber CR Coil uses coil springs, but checking the sag is still an essential step in getting the correct feel.
  7. Test the Installation: Once everything is secure, check the shock’s range of motion by manually compressing it and ensuring it moves smoothly. If any resistance is felt, recheck the installation for tightness or alignment issues.

Maintenance of the Bomber CR Coil Rear Shock

Routine maintenance is essential to keep the Bomber CR Coil rear shock functioning optimally. Follow these maintenance tips to keep your shock in top condition:

1. Clean the Shock Regularly:

  • After every ride, use a clean rag to wipe down the shock body to remove dirt, mud, and grime that can build up. Pay particular attention to the shock’s seals as dirt can cause damage to the internal components over time.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents that may damage the shock’s finish or seals. A gentle wash with warm water and mild soap is sufficient.

2. Lubricate the Shock’s Bushings:

  • Regularly lubricate the shock’s bushings with bike-specific grease. This reduces friction, prolongs the life of the shock, and ensures smooth operation.
  • Apply grease to the mounting points before reattaching the shock to the frame.

3. Inspect the Coil Spring:

  • Check the coil spring for any signs of wear or damage, such as cracks or a bent shape. If you notice any issues, replace the spring immediately to prevent further damage to the shock.
  • Adjust the preload on the coil to match your riding style and body weight. A properly tuned preload ensures optimal shock performance.

4. Monitor Rebound and Compression Adjustments:

  • Periodically check the rebound and compression settings to ensure they still suit your riding conditions. Changes in terrain or rider weight can necessitate adjustments.
  • Clean the adjustment dials with a soft brush to prevent any dirt buildup from affecting the dial’s movement.

5. Shock Oil Changes:

  • Over time, the oil inside the shock can degrade. Perform an oil change every 50-100 hours of riding or once a year, whichever comes first. This is a more advanced maintenance task that might require professional help, but it will keep the internal components running smoothly.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

While the Bomber CR Coil is a robust shock, it’s important to troubleshoot potential issues that could arise during regular use. Here are some common issues and how to solve them:

1. Excessive Sag or Soft Feel:

  • Possible Cause: The coil spring might be too soft for your weight or riding style.
  • Solution: Check the spring rate to ensure it’s appropriate for your weight. If necessary, replace the coil with a stiffer one to achieve the desired performance.

2. Excessive Rebound:

  • Possible Cause: The rebound setting might be too high.
  • Solution: Turn the rebound adjuster clockwise to slow down the rebound rate and ensure smoother control when the shock returns to its extended position.

3. Noise or Creaking:

  • Possible Cause: Loose mounting bolts or inadequate lubrication on the shock’s bushings.
  • Solution: Tighten the mounting bolts to the recommended torque specification and apply fresh grease to the bushings.

4. Leaking Oil:

  • Possible Cause: Damaged seals or internal shock failure.
  • Solution: Inspect the shock seals for any visible damage. If you find any issues, take the shock to a professional for seal replacement or further inspection.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

The Bomber CR Coil rear shock is highly adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune its performance to match your specific needs. Here are a few customization tips:

1. Fine-Tuning the Coil Spring:

  • Depending on your weight and riding style, you may need to swap out the coil spring for one that better suits your needs. A firmer spring is recommended for aggressive riders or heavier cyclists, while a softer spring is ideal for lighter riders or those seeking a more plush ride.
  • Check your sag and adjust accordingly for optimal comfort and performance.

2. Adjusting the Rebound and Compression Dials:

  • The Bomber CR Coil features separate rebound and compression adjustment dials. Experiment with different settings to find the right balance for your terrain. Start with a mid-range setting and adjust incrementally based on trail conditions.
  • For faster, rougher terrain, increase compression and slow the rebound for more control. For smoother trails, decrease compression and speed up the rebound for a more comfortable ride.

3. Upgrading the Shock Hardware:

  • Consider upgrading the shock hardware, such as replacing the mounting bolts or adding an additional damping kit, to further refine the shock’s responsiveness and longevity.

Comparison with Similar Models

The Bomber CR Coil rear shock stands out due to its durability and performance. However, it’s always useful to compare it with similar models to make an informed decision. Here’s how the Bomber CR Coil compares to other popular rear shocks:

  • Fox DHX2: The Fox DHX2 offers a similar coil shock design with separate high and low-speed compression adjustments. It is known for its advanced damping system but is slightly more expensive than the Bomber CR Coil.
  • RockShox Super Deluxe Coil: This shock provides a high degree of customization and is lighter than the Bomber CR Coil, but may not be as durable for aggressive riders.

Both the Fox DHX2 and RockShox Super Deluxe Coil are great options, but if you’re looking for a reliable, easy-to-maintain coil shock at a more affordable price point, the Bomber CR Coil is a strong contender.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Bomber CR Coil rear shock is designed to be compatible with most modern mountain bike frames. However, always ensure that your frame supports a coil shock setup, as some frames are better suited for air shocks. Double-check your bike’s shock specifications, including eye-to-eye length and stroke length, to ensure proper fitment with the Bomber CR Coil.

When paired with high-quality drivetrain components, such as SRAM or Shimano drivetrains, the Bomber CR Coil can greatly enhance the overall performance of your bike, particularly when tackling rough, technical trails.