The ElevenSix 2021 [paid link] rear shock from Push Industries is known for its precision, durability, and performance. As one of the top choices for serious mountain bikers and riders who demand exceptional suspension performance, keeping your rear shock in optimal condition is critical for preserving its longevity and ensuring smooth, efficient rides. Whether you’re an experienced mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, taking the right maintenance steps will help you extend the life of your ElevenSix 2021 [paid link] and keep it performing at its best for years to come.

Tools Required

• Torque wrench [paid link]
• Shock pump
• Soft cloth or rag
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Silicone lubricant
• Allen wrenches [paid link]
• Clean, soft brush
• Grease (preferably synthetic)
• 5mm and 8mm socket wrenches
• Small plastic container for disassembling parts

Basic Maintenance for the ElevenSix 2021 Rear Shock

Regular maintenance is the key to ensuring the longevity of the ElevenSix 2021 rear shock. A simple yet effective routine will help prevent common issues and keep the shock working properly. Here’s how you can perform basic maintenance:

Cleaning and Inspection

1. Clean the shock after each ride: Dirt, grime, and moisture can cause wear on the shock’s seals and dampening components. Use a soft cloth or rag to wipe down the shock’s exterior, paying close attention to the seals around the shock body. For a more thorough cleaning, use a soft brush to remove any build-up of dirt and dust.
2. Inspect the shock for damage: Look for signs of oil leakage or any unusual wear on the shock body, seals, or components. If you notice excessive wear or leaking, it’s time to consult a professional mechanic for a deeper inspection or a rebuild.

Lubrication and Seals Care

1. Lubricate the seals: Over time, the shock’s seals can dry out, leading to friction and reduced performance. Apply a small amount of silicone-based lubricant to the seals after every cleaning. This helps keep them supple and prevents dirt from getting trapped in the seal grooves.
2. Check the air pressure: The ElevenSix 2021 uses air suspension, so it’s important to maintain the correct air pressure based on your weight and riding style. Use a shock pump to set the pressure correctly and ensure optimal shock performance. For reference, most riders will need between 200-300 psi, depending on their weight and the type of riding they do.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

Despite its high-end design, like all suspension systems, the ElevenSix 2021 may experience issues during setup or due to wear and tear. Here’s how you can troubleshoot and resolve some common problems.

Loss of Rebound Control

1. Check air pressure: If the rebound feels sluggish or unresponsive, make sure that the air pressure is set to the correct level for your riding style. If the shock is under-pressurized, it can cause a delayed rebound.
2. Inspect the rebound adjuster: The rebound adjuster controls the speed at which the shock returns to its original position after compression. If it feels stiff or difficult to adjust, ensure that it’s clean and free of debris. A small amount of lubricant can help ease movement.
3. Internal damping issue: If you’ve ruled out air pressure and the rebound adjuster is functioning, but the issue persists, internal damping components might need a service. This is a more involved issue that should be addressed by a professional.

Sag and Bottoming Out

1. Adjust air pressure: If the shock feels too soft and bottoms out frequently, this may be due to insufficient air pressure. Use a shock pump to increase the pressure, but be careful not to overinflate, as this can make the shock feel too stiff.
2. Check the settings: Ensure that the damping settings (compression and rebound) are adjusted properly for your weight and riding style. You can fine-tune these settings to balance performance and comfort.
3. Check for leaks: Leaks in the shock body can lead to air pressure loss, which can cause sagging. Carefully inspect the shock body and seals for any signs of leakage.

Advanced Maintenance and Rebuilds

Full Shock Disassembly and Cleaning

For riders who want to perform a more in-depth maintenance routine, a full shock disassembly might be necessary. This process is complex and requires precision, so make sure you are familiar with the shock’s components and have the proper tools.

1. Disassemble the shock: Using your Allen wrenches [paid link] and socket wrenches, carefully remove the shock from the frame. Disassemble the damper body from the shock assembly. Keep track of all screws, washers, and parts in a clean container.
2. Clean the internal components: Use isopropyl alcohol to clean the internal parts of the shock. Be gentle with the seals, as these can easily be damaged if handled roughly. Check for signs of wear or scoring on internal parts like the shaft and damper piston.
3. Re-grease and reassemble: Before reassembling, lubricate all moving parts with synthetic grease, especially the parts that slide or come into contact with seals. Reassemble the shock carefully, ensuring that all parts are secured properly.

Shock Oil Change

An oil change in the shock is essential for maintaining smooth performance. Over time, the shock oil can break down and become less effective.

1. Remove the damper: Start by removing the shock from the bike and then remove the damper from the shock body.
2. Drain and replace the oil: Drain the old shock oil into a container and refill it with the recommended oil. Be sure to check Push Industries’ specifications for the correct type and amount of oil.
3. Reassemble the shock: Once the oil has been replaced, reassemble the shock carefully. Be sure to torque all bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended settings.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

While the ElevenSix 2021 rear shock comes pre-configured for optimal performance, it can be customized to suit your specific riding style and preferences. Here are some ways to fine-tune your shock for improved performance.

Compression and Rebound Settings

1. Adjust for riding style: If you prefer a plush, more forgiving ride, adjust the compression settings to make the shock softer. Conversely, if you need a stiffer ride for aggressive downhill or cross-country riding, increase the compression. The ElevenSix 2021 features independent high and low-speed compression adjustments, allowing you to fine-tune both settings.
2. Rebound control: Fine-tune the rebound settings to match your riding terrain. A faster rebound might be suitable for smoother trails, while a slower rebound is better for more technical, rougher trails.

Air Spring Tuning

1. Volume spacers: The ElevenSix 2021 allows you to adjust the volume of the air spring with volume spacers. By increasing or decreasing the number of spacers, you can change the shock’s progression, which affects how the shock behaves during compression. More spacers increase the ramp-up toward bottom-out, while fewer spacers provide a more linear feel.
2. Fine-tuning air pressure: Adjusting the air pressure to match your weight and riding style is crucial. Remember that your weight distribution and preferred riding conditions will determine the ideal setup.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The ElevenSix 2021 rear shock is designed to integrate seamlessly with most modern mountain bike drivetrains. However, to get the most out of your shock, ensure compatibility with the following:

• Frame compatibility: Before installation, verify that your bike frame is designed to fit a shock of this size and configuration. The ElevenSix 2021 is compatible with most major frame manufacturers, but always check the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Drivetrain performance: The rear shock should complement the performance of your drivetrain. If you’re running a high-performance drivetrain with advanced shifting systems, pairing the ElevenSix 2021 shock with a top-tier suspension system ensures that you get the best performance from both.

By following these tips for maintenance, troubleshooting, and customization, you can extend the life of your ElevenSix 2021 rear shock and keep your bike performing at its peak [paid link]. Regular maintenance, along with careful adjustments based on your riding style, will ensure that your shock remains a high-performance asset on every ride.