A Comprehensive Guide to Bomber CR Coil Rear Shocks

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Introduction

The Marzocchi Bomber CR Coil [paid link] rear shock

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is a high-performance suspension component designed for aggressive riders who require durability, precision, and control in rough terrain. Known for its robust design, easy adjustments, and coil-sprung performance, the Bomber CR Coil [paid link] delivers superior traction and comfort during challenging descents and technical climbs. This guide will explore the key features, installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization of the Bomber CR Coil, helping you make the most of your rear shock for an enhanced riding experience.

Key Features of the Bomber CR Coil Rear Shock

The Bomber CR Coil offers several features that make it a popular choice among mountain bikers:

  • Coil Spring Design: Known for its consistent performance and durability, the coil spring ensures superior sensitivity and support on rough terrain.
  • External Adjustments: Includes compression and rebound adjustments that allow riders to fine-tune the suspension for different riding styles and trail conditions.
  • Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials, the Bomber CR Coil is designed to withstand extreme impacts and rough conditions.
  • Simple and Effective: The lack of overly complex settings makes this shock straightforward to adjust, even for beginner riders.
  • Enduro/All-Mountain Focus: Perfect for aggressive riders who need a shock capable of handling challenging enduro and all-mountain trails.

Tools Required

Before installing or adjusting your Bomber CR Coil rear shock, ensure you have the following tools:

  • Shock pump
  • 8mm or 10mm socket wrench
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • Allen wrenches [paid link] (sizes may vary)
  • Coil spring tool (for changing spring)
  • Flathead screwdriver (for adjusting rebound)
  • Compression adjuster tool (if needed)

Installation of the Bomber CR Coil Rear Shock

Installing the Marzocchi Bomber CR Coil rear shock requires some attention to detail to ensure it is properly mounted and adjusted. Follow these steps for a smooth installation process:

  1. Remove the Old Shock:
    • Begin by removing the existing rear shock from your bike’s frame. Use an 8mm or 10mm socket wrench to loosen and remove the bolts holding the shock in place.
  2. Prepare the New Bomber CR Coil Shock:
    • Ensure the new shock is properly lubricated and that the eyelets and mounting hardware are intact. The shock should come with mounting hardware compatible with most bike frames.
  3. Install the Bomber CR Coil Shock:
    • Position the shock into its mounting points. Ensure the eyelets are aligned correctly before tightening the bolts.
    • Use a torque wrench [paid link] to ensure the bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specified torque values.
  4. Check for Clearance and Movement:
    • Ensure that there is no interference with the frame, tires, or other components. The shock should move freely without obstruction.
    • Cycle the suspension to verify the shock operates correctly.
  5. Pump the Shock to the Correct Pressure:
    • Use a shock pump to set the appropriate air pressure or coil preload for your weight and riding style. Refer to the Bomber CR Coil’s recommended pressure range based on your body weight.

Adjusting the Bomber CR Coil Rear Shock

Once installed, proper adjustment is essential for achieving optimal performance. The Bomber CR Coil provides two key adjustments:

Compression Adjustment

Compression controls how the shock reacts to bumps and impacts. The Bomber CR Coil offers an external knob for adjusting compression settings.

  • Turn Clockwise: Increases compression, stiffening the shock for more aggressive terrain.
  • Turn Counterclockwise: Softens the shock, making it more sensitive for smoother terrain.

Make small adjustments to test how the bike handles different conditions. It’s best to start with a neutral setting and adjust based on the trail’s roughness.

Rebound Adjustment

Rebound determines how quickly the shock returns to its normal position after compressing. A well-set rebound prevents the rear end from bouncing uncontrollably after hitting a bump or drop.

  • Turn Clockwise: Slows down the rebound, keeping the rear end in check.
  • Turn Counterclockwise: Increases rebound speed for a quicker return.

Adjusting the rebound helps to maintain a controlled, stable ride. Always test the rebound setting by riding on a trail with varied terrain.

Maintenance of the Bomber CR Coil Rear Shock

To maintain peak [paid link] performance, regular maintenance is crucial. The Bomber CR Coil is built to last, but it will perform best when cleaned and serviced periodically.

Cleaning

  1. Clean the Shock After Each Ride:
    • Wipe down the shock with a soft cloth to remove dirt and grime that could affect its performance.
    • Use a mild cleaner, ensuring it doesn’t damage the shock’s seals or finish.
  2. Check for Leaks:
    • Inspect the shock for oil leaks around the seals. Leaks may indicate the need for servicing or replacing the seals.

Servicing the Shock

The Bomber CR Coil requires minimal servicing but should be inspected every 6 to 12 months, depending on usage. Key areas to inspect include:

  • Coil Spring: Check for any damage or wear on the coil spring. If you feel any loss of performance, it might be time to replace or upgrade the coil.
  • Seals and Oil: Check the shock’s seals for wear and replace them if necessary. Replacing the oil inside the shock is also a good practice to maintain smooth operation.

It’s best to have a professional mechanic perform any major servicing if you’re unsure about disassembling the shock.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Loss of Rebound Control

  • Cause: This could be due to worn-out oil or internal components.
  • Solution: Disassemble the shock and inspect the oil and seals. Replace the oil or service the shock if necessary.

Coil Spring Sag

  • Cause: Incorrect spring rate or improper setup.
  • Solution: Check your body weight and riding style to ensure you are using the appropriate coil spring. Adjust the preload to eliminate sag.

Noisy Shock

  • Cause: Dirt or debris in the shock.
  • Solution: Clean the shock and inspect the seals. If noise persists, the shock might need a more thorough service.

Customization and Optimization

To get the best performance out of your Bomber CR Coil rear shock, consider these optimization tips:

  • Coil Spring Upgrade: If you’re finding that the stock coil spring isn’t meeting your needs, consider upgrading to a stiffer or softer spring based on your weight and riding style.
  • Tuning for Terrain: Adjust the compression and rebound settings based on the specific trails you ride. For smoother trails, reduce compression for a plush ride; for rough terrain, increase compression for better control.
  • Frequent Oil Changes: Regular oil changes ensure that the shock remains responsive and smooth, especially after several months of use or heavy riding.

Comparison with Similar Models

When choosing a rear shock, it’s essential to compare the Bomber CR Coil with other options on the market. Here’s a brief comparison:

  • Fox DHX2: Similar to the Bomber CR Coil, the DHX2 offers a coil spring system with high adjustability. However, the DHX2 is more expensive and may be overkill for riders who don’t need such extensive tuning options.
  • RockShox Super Deluxe Coil: Another strong competitor, the Super Deluxe Coil offers excellent performance with external adjustments similar to the Bomber CR Coil. The RockShox model is known for its versatility but tends to be slightly heavier than the Bomber CR Coil.

Ultimately, the Bomber CR Coil stands out as a reliable, user-friendly shock for riders who prioritize durability, ease of use, and performance over extensive tuning options.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Bomber CR Coil rear shock is compatible with most modern mountain bike frames that accept a coil-sprung shock. Ensure your bike has the correct shock mount spacing, which is typically 205mm x 65mm for many enduro bikes. It’s important to double-check the compatibility of the shock’s mounting hardware with your bike’s rear triangle before installation. Additionally, make sure the shock’s travel length matches the design of your bike frame to maintain proper geometry and handling.

By ensuring the shock is compatible with your drivetrain and bike frame, you can optimize your bike’s overall performance without compromising ride quality.