When it comes to performance and durability, the rear shock plays a pivotal role in enhancing the ride quality of your bike. For serious cyclists, choosing the right rear shock is critical. One of the standout models in the market today is the ElevenSix 2021 [paid link] rear shock from Push Industries. In this article, we will explore its features, performance, and how it compares to other high-end rear shocks available to riders.
Overview of the ElevenSix 2021 Rear Shock
The ElevenSix 2021 [paid link] rear shock from Push Industries is designed for riders seeking precise control and ultimate customization for mountain and enduro bikes. This shock is built for aggressive riding, offering improved suspension performance and a smoother ride over a wide range of conditions.
What sets the ElevenSix apart is its ability to provide a tunable performance package that allows for individual adjustments based on rider preference and terrain type. It is highly regarded for its innovative design, including the use of advanced damping technology, its ability to handle high-speed impacts, and its overall efficiency in absorbing bumps and maintaining control.
Key Features of the ElevenSix 2021 Rear Shock
- Advanced Damping System: The ElevenSix 2021 features a dual piston damper system that separates high- and low-speed compression circuits. This offers more refined control over suspension behavior, ensuring that the rider can handle both big hits and smaller, repetitive bumps with ease.
- Highly Tunable: Riders can easily adjust the shock’s compression and rebound settings for a tailored feel that matches their riding style. The shock includes a high-performance coil spring, which can be swapped out to match different rider weights and preferences.
- Durability: The shock’s construction utilizes high-quality materials designed for long-term durability and performance, even under the harshest riding conditions.
- Shock Customization: Push Industries offers the ability to customize the shock’s internals, allowing riders to achieve the optimal performance they require, whether it’s for downhill racing or long-endurance cross-country rides.
Installation and Adjustment of the ElevenSix 2021 Rear Shock
Installing and adjusting the ElevenSix 2021 rear shock requires a basic understanding of suspension mechanics, but with careful attention to detail, riders can easily set up the shock to their preference.
Installation
- Remove the Old Shock: Before installing the new shock, ensure that the bike is securely placed on a stand. Remove the current rear shock from the frame by loosening the bolts on both the top and bottom eyelets.
- Install the ElevenSix 2021: Align the shock with the mounting holes and secure it with the bolts. Tighten the bolts evenly to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. Ensure the shock is properly seated and there is no movement once tightened.
- Check for Clearance: After installation, check for proper clearance with the frame and linkage to ensure that the shock can fully compress and extend without obstruction.
Adjustment
- Set Sag: Adjust the shock to achieve the recommended sag for your weight and riding style. This is crucial to ensuring the shock performs at its best. The sag is typically between 25-30% of the shock’s travel.
- Tune Compression and Rebound: The ElevenSix allows precise adjustment of the high- and low-speed compression, as well as the rebound damping. Start with the recommended settings and adjust based on your experience. For smoother terrain, reduce compression; for rougher trails, increase it.
- Test and Fine-Tune: After initial adjustments, take the bike for a test ride. Fine-tune the shock by making small adjustments until the bike handles the terrain to your satisfaction.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Despite its precision engineering, the ElevenSix 2021 rear shock may occasionally exhibit issues that can be resolved through basic troubleshooting.
Common Issue 1: Lack of Rebound Control
If the shock feels too sluggish or too fast when rebounding, it may be due to improper rebound settings or a worn-out damper. Check the rebound adjuster and ensure it is set correctly for your riding style. If the issue persists, it could be a sign that the shock requires servicing.
Common Issue 2: Insufficient Compression
If the shock does not provide enough compression on larger hits, the compression settings may need to be adjusted. Consider increasing the low-speed compression if the bike bottoms out during aggressive riding.
Common Issue 3: Unusual Noises
Rattling or squeaking noises may indicate issues with the shock’s mounting or linkage. Inspect the mounting hardware for any loose bolts or components that may need lubrication.
Customization and Optimization for Performance
The ElevenSix 2021 rear shock offers a high level of customization to optimize your bike’s suspension system based on your specific needs and riding conditions. Some areas for optimization include:
Spring Choice
The ElevenSix comes with a coil spring that can be swapped out for one that better suits your weight and riding style. For riders who prefer a firmer feel or those who ride in extreme conditions, a heavier spring may be beneficial. Conversely, a lighter spring may be ideal for smoother trails or riders seeking a more plush feel.
Compression and Rebound Damping
The shock features independent compression and rebound adjustments, allowing for a highly customized setup. Adjust the low-speed compression for a plush feel over small bumps or increase it for better control on larger impacts. Rebound damping should be fine-tuned to ensure that the shock returns to its original position at the right speed, preventing it from rebounding too quickly or slowly.
Volume Spacers
Push Industries provides the option of adding volume spacers to the shock. These spacers reduce the overall air volume, increasing the shock’s progressiveness. Adding spacers allows riders to better control bottom-out resistance, especially in aggressive riding conditions.
Comparison with the Competition
When compared to other high-end rear shocks, the ElevenSix 2021 stands out for its exceptional performance and tuning capabilities. However, it’s important to understand how it fares against similar models.
Compare to Fox DHX2
The Fox DHX2 is a strong competitor in the realm of rear shocks. Both shocks offer similar coil spring setups and dual-piston dampers. However, the ElevenSix is considered more customizable due to its broader range of tuning options and the ability to fine-tune the damper internals. The Fox DHX2, while a great shock, does not offer as much depth in terms of customization as the ElevenSix, making it a better option for riders who want something plug-and-play without too much tinkering.
Compare to RockShox Super Deluxe Coil
The RockShox Super Deluxe Coil is another top-tier rear shock that competes with the ElevenSix. While the Super Deluxe offers good performance, it lacks the level of adjustability that the ElevenSix provides. Riders who demand ultimate tuning flexibility, especially in terms of compression, rebound, and volume adjustment, will find the ElevenSix to be a more fitting choice.
Compare to Ohlins TTX22M
The Ohlins TTX22M is a high-performance shock with excellent dampening properties and a great reputation for downhill performance. While the Ohlins offers similar features like the ElevenSix, it tends to be a bit more rigid and less forgiving when it comes to tuning for different riding styles. The ElevenSix is considered to be more versatile [paid link], allowing for a broader range of customization to fit various rider preferences.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The ElevenSix 2021 rear shock is designed to work well with a variety of drivetrain components, though riders should always ensure compatibility between the shock and their frame. Most modern frames with 200mm of rear travel or less should work seamlessly with the ElevenSix, but it’s essential to verify mounting standards and shock travel before installation.
Frame Compatibility
The shock’s eyelet dimensions and mounting hardware should match those of the bike frame. For example, bikes designed for a 205mm shock will need to have the appropriate rear triangle design to accommodate the ElevenSix.
Linkage Considerations
When installing the ElevenSix, make sure your frame’s suspension linkage allows for optimal performance with a coil shock. Some bikes with specific linkage systems may need additional components to ensure smooth shock action.
Conclusion
The ElevenSix 2021 rear shock from Push Industries offers an exceptional blend of performance, durability, and adjustability. It excels in providing customized ride quality tailored to the rider’s needs. When compared to similar shocks from Fox, RockShox, and Ohlins, the ElevenSix stands out as the most customizable and versatile [paid link] option. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a newcomer looking to improve your bike’s suspension, the ElevenSix provides a level of precision and refinement that is hard to match.