Maintaining the RockShox Deluxe Select [paid link] rear shock is essential for ensuring that your bike performs at its best. This rear shock is known for its performance, adjustability, and ease of use, but it requires proper care to maintain its full functionality. In this guide, we will cover the essential steps for servicing the Deluxe Select [paid link] rear shock, including installation, adjustment, maintenance, and troubleshooting common issues.

Tools Required

• Shock pump
• 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
• 8mm Allen wrench [paid link]
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• RockShox seal kit
• T20 Torx wrench [paid link]
• Oil (RockShox 0W-30 or equivalent)
• Shock fluid syringe
• Grease
• Cleaning supplies (cloth, degreaser)

Installation of the Deluxe Select Rear Shock

Installing the RockShox Deluxe Select rear shock requires careful attention to ensure proper fit and performance. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you install the shock correctly:

1. Prepare the Bike Frame: Ensure your bike frame is clean and free from dirt and debris. If your bike has been used, give the mounting areas a thorough cleaning.
2. Position the Shock: Align the shock with the mounting points on your bike frame. The RockShox Deluxe Select rear shock is designed for standard 200mm x 57mm and 190mm x 51mm configurations, so verify the correct size for your frame.
3. Insert the Shock into the Mounting Points: Slide the shock into the frame’s rear triangle, ensuring it is properly aligned. Be cautious when handling the shock to prevent any damage to the seals or mounting hardware.
4. Tighten the Bolts: Use a 5mm Allen wrench to tighten the bolts securing the shock to the frame. Ensure that the bolts are torqued to the manufacturer’s recommended settings, typically 8-10 Nm. Use a torque wrench [paid link] to ensure accuracy.
5. Check for Smooth Movement: Once the shock is installed, check for any obstruction or rubbing. The shock should move smoothly through its full travel without any binding or resistance.

Adjustment and Fine-Tuning

The Deluxe Select rear shock features several adjustments that can be fine-tuned to improve comfort, control, and performance. These include rebound damping, compression damping, and air spring pressure.

Rebound Damping

Rebound damping controls the speed at which the shock returns to its original position after compression. This adjustment helps prevent the shock from bouncing uncontrollably after hitting a bump or obstacle.

• Locate the Rebound Dial: The rebound dial is located at the bottom of the shock, typically near the shock eyelet.
• Adjust the Dial: Turn the dial clockwise to slow down the rebound, or counterclockwise to speed it up. Start with a middle setting and adjust based on your riding style and preferences.

Compression Damping

Compression damping controls how much the shock resists compression under load. The Deluxe Select shock offers a platform-based compression adjustment that enhances pedaling efficiency without sacrificing comfort during descents.

• Locate the Compression Dial: This is typically found on the top of the shock, near the air valve.
• Adjust the Dial: Turn the dial to increase compression damping (clockwise) for a firmer, more efficient ride, or decrease it (counterclockwise) for a softer feel that absorbs more trail impacts.

Air Spring Pressure

Air spring pressure controls the overall firmness of the shock. The proper air pressure ensures that the shock is neither too soft nor too firm for your weight and riding style.

• Check the Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Refer to the RockShox manual for the recommended air pressure based on your weight.
• Adjust the Pressure: Use a shock pump to adjust the air pressure in the shock. Make sure to check the pressure regularly to ensure optimal performance.

Maintenance of the Deluxe Select Rear Shock

Regular maintenance is crucial for extending the lifespan of your Deluxe Select rear shock and keeping it performing at its best. Follow these steps for routine maintenance:

Cleaning

• Clean the Shock Regularly: Use a cloth and degreaser to clean the shock body. Dirt and debris can damage seals over time, so it’s important to keep the shock clean.
• Lubricate the Seals: Apply a light coat of lubricant to the shock seals to prevent wear and ensure smooth movement. Be sure to use a lubricant specifically designed for suspension components.

Oil and Seal Replacement

Over time, the shock’s internal oil can degrade, and seals can wear out. Replacing the oil and seals is essential for maintaining the shock’s performance.

• Remove the Shock from the Frame: Follow the same steps as the installation process to remove the shock from the bike.
• Disassemble the Shock: Use a T20 Torx wrench [paid link] to remove the shock’s damper and air spring assembly. Take care to note the order and orientation of components as you disassemble.
• Drain Old Oil: Drain the old oil from the damper and air spring. This is a messy process, so ensure you have a clean surface to work on.
• Install New Seals: Replace any worn seals with new ones from the RockShox seal kit. Lubricate the new seals with oil before reassembling the shock.
• Refill with New Oil: Use the recommended oil (RockShox 0W-30 or equivalent) to refill the damper and air spring. Make sure to follow the exact oil volume and procedure as outlined in the manual.

Checking for Leaks

Once the shock is reassembled, check for air or oil leaks. Inflate the shock and check for any hissing sounds or visible leaks around the seals. If you find a leak, you may need to replace the seals or consult a professional.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While the Deluxe Select rear shock is designed for reliable performance, certain issues can arise. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Loss of Air Pressure

If you notice that the shock is not holding air, it could be due to a damaged seal or valve. Inspect the shock for visible damage, and check the valve for tightness. If the problem persists, you may need to replace the seals or consult RockShox for further assistance.

Excessive Rebound Speed

If the shock rebounds too quickly, it could be a sign that the rebound damping is set too low. Adjust the rebound dial to slow the rebound and test the shock again.

No Suspension Travel

If the shock feels stiff and there is no noticeable suspension movement, it could be caused by an incorrect air pressure setting. Check the air pressure and adjust it according to your weight and riding style. Also, ensure that the compression dial is not set too high.

Customization and Optimization

The Deluxe Select rear shock offers a high degree of customization, allowing you to fine-tune the shock to match your specific riding preferences and terrain conditions. Here are some tips for optimizing the shock:

• Adjust Air Pressure Based on Terrain: For technical or rocky trails, increase the air pressure to provide more support. For smoother trails, reduce the air pressure for a more plush feel.
• Fine-Tune Rebound and Compression: Experiment with different rebound and compression settings based on your riding style. If you’re looking for more control during aggressive descents, you might prefer a firmer compression setting. For a smoother, more forgiving ride, decrease the compression.
• Use Different Settings for Climbs and Descents: Many riders prefer to adjust their shock for climbs and descents. Set a firmer compression for climbing to improve pedaling efficiency, and soften it for descents to maximize comfort and traction.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The RockShox Deluxe Select rear shock is designed to work with a wide range of mountain bikes and drivetrains. However, it is essential to ensure that the shock is compatible with your bike’s frame and rear triangle geometry. Make sure to verify the shock size (e.g., 200mm x 57mm) and mounting system to ensure a proper fit.

Additionally, the shock’s performance can be influenced by your bike’s overall suspension system. Pairing it with a compatible front fork, like the RockShox Pike or Lyrik, can ensure balanced suspension performance across both ends of your bike.