Upgrading your road bike suspension is a key step toward improving comfort and control, especially when tackling rough terrain or long rides. The Fenix COIL [paid link] rear shocks from Fast Suspension are an excellent choice for riders seeking enhanced performance, reliability, and adjustability. This guide will walk you through the installation, adjustment, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the Fenix COIL [paid link] rear shocks, as well as tips on optimizing your setup and ensuring compatibility with your existing drivetrain components.
Tools Required
- 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
- Torque wrench [paid link] (up to 50 Nm)
- Suspension grease
- Shock pump (compatible with COIL rear shocks)
- Flathead screwdriver
- Soft cloth or towel
- Rags for cleaning
- Safety goggles and gloves
Installation of Fenix COIL Rear Shocks
Installing the Fenix COIL rear shocks on your road bike is a straightforward process, but it requires precision to ensure proper function. Follow these steps carefully:
1. Prepare the Bike
Before you begin, lift your bike on a stand and make sure the rear wheel is removed. If the rear wheel is still in place, it could obstruct the installation of the rear shock.
2. Remove the Existing Rear Shock
If your bike already has a rear shock, start by removing it. Use the 5mm Allen wrench [paid link] to undo the bolts holding the shock in place. Keep track of the hardware (bolts, washers, etc.) as you’ll need them for reinstalling the new shock.
3. Install the Fenix COIL Rear Shock
Position the Fenix COIL rear shock into the shock mount and align the mounting holes. Insert the bolts through the shock eyelets and tighten them using the 5mm Allen wrench. Use the torque wrench [paid link] to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification (usually around 30-40 Nm). This ensures the shock is securely attached but not over-tightened.
4. Set Up the Coil Spring
The Fenix COIL rear shock comes with an adjustable coil spring. Ensure that the spring is correctly set up for your weight and riding style. For most riders, the ideal coil spring preload will provide the necessary balance between comfort and control. Adjust the spring as necessary and ensure it is seated properly in the shock mount.
5. Reinstall the Rear Wheel
Once the shock is securely installed, reinstall the rear wheel and ensure everything is correctly aligned. Check the shock’s movement to make sure it moves smoothly through its full range of travel without interference.
6. Final Check
Once the shock is installed and the bike is reassembled, check for any play in the rear shock and ensure all bolts are torqued correctly. Additionally, check the shock’s range of motion to make sure it doesn’t bind during compression or rebound.
Adjusting Fenix COIL Rear Shocks for Optimal Performance
The Fenix COIL rear shock offers a range of adjustments, allowing you to fine-tune your suspension to match your riding style and terrain. The main adjustments to focus on include:
1. Rebound Damping
Rebound damping controls how quickly the shock returns to its original position after compression. Too fast of a rebound can cause the bike to feel bouncy and unstable, while too slow can make it feel sluggish.
To adjust the rebound, turn the rebound knob located at the bottom of the shock. Turning it clockwise will slow down the rebound, while counterclockwise will speed it up. Start with a middle setting and make small adjustments based on how the bike feels during rides.
2. Compression Damping
Compression damping regulates how the shock reacts to bumps and impacts. Proper compression damping ensures you don’t bottom out the shock when hitting rough terrain.
To adjust compression damping, locate the compression dial (often found on the top of the shock) and turn it to your desired setting. A higher compression setting will stiffen the shock, while a lower setting provides more cushioning. Adjust based on your ride preferences and terrain.
3. Air Pressure
The Fenix COIL shock may have a secondary air spring chamber that adjusts overall shock pressure. Use a shock pump to adjust the air pressure to suit your weight and riding style. For heavier riders, higher air pressure may be required, while lighter riders will need less. This adjustment provides more control over the shock’s overall feel.
Maintenance of Fenix COIL Rear Shocks
Proper maintenance of the Fenix COIL rear shock is essential to ensuring its longevity and consistent performance. Follow these steps to keep your shock in top condition:
1. Regular Cleaning
After each ride, wipe down the shock with a soft cloth or towel to remove any dirt, mud, or debris. Cleaning prevents grime from working its way into the shock internals and causing damage over time.
2. Inspect for Leaks
Check the shock for any oil leaks around the seals. Leaks can indicate seal wear or damage, which requires immediate attention. If you notice any leaking, take the shock to a professional mechanic for servicing.
3. Lubricate Seals and Bushings
Every few rides, apply a small amount of suspension grease to the shock seals and bushings. This helps maintain smooth movement and prevents unnecessary friction.
4. Periodic Full Service
Fenix COIL shocks require a full service every 100-150 hours of riding. During this service, the shock will need to be disassembled, cleaned, and re-lubed. It’s also the time to check for worn-out parts and replace any components as needed.
Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues with Fenix COIL Rear Shocks
1. Shock Bottoming Out
If the shock bottoms out too easily, it may be due to improper compression damping settings or too little air pressure. Check your settings and increase the compression damping or air pressure slightly. Alternatively, consider adjusting the coil spring preload.
2. Excessive Rebound or Bouncing
If the shock feels bouncy or rebounds too quickly, the rebound damping may be too fast. Adjust the rebound knob to slow down the rebound, ensuring a smooth and controlled return of the shock after compression.
3. Noisy Shock
A noisy shock can be caused by insufficient lubrication or dirt buildup in the seals. Clean the shock thoroughly and apply fresh suspension grease. If the noise persists, inspect the seals for wear.
Customization and Optimization for Better Performance
To get the best out of your Fenix COIL rear shock, consider the following customizations:
1. Coil Spring Swap
If you feel the current spring rate is too stiff or too soft for your riding style, swapping out the coil spring for a different rate can dramatically improve your ride. Fenix COIL shocks are compatible with a variety of spring rates depending on your weight and riding style.
2. Fine-Tuning Compression and Rebound
Riders can fine-tune the compression and rebound settings based on their specific preferences and terrain. Experimenting with different settings during different types of rides (e.g., downhill vs. cross-country) can help you achieve the best performance.
3. Upgrade to a High-Performance Shock Pump
For more precise air pressure adjustments, consider upgrading to a high-quality shock pump with a built-in pressure gauge. This allows for more accurate tuning of your shock’s air spring.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Fenix COIL rear shock is compatible with most modern road bike drivetrain components. However, it is important to ensure your bike frame has the appropriate mounting hardware and clearance to fit the shock. Additionally, if your bike uses a different type of suspension (e.g., air shocks), you may need to adjust other components to accommodate the different spring and damping characteristics of the COIL shock.
Always check the shock’s specifications and compare them with your bike’s geometry to ensure optimal compatibility. If you’re unsure, consult a professional mechanic for assistance.
Conclusion
Upgrading to the Fenix COIL rear shock from Fast Suspension can significantly improve your bike’s handling, comfort, and overall performance. By carefully following the installation steps, adjusting the shock for your riding style, maintaining the shock, and troubleshooting common issues, you can ensure that your upgrade provides lasting value. With proper care and fine-tuning, the Fenix COIL shock will enhance your riding experience for years to come.