Extend the Life of Your Deluxe Select Rear Shock with These DIY Hacks

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The RockShox Deluxe Select [paid link] rear shock is a well-regarded component designed to provide excellent performance for mountain bikers and trail enthusiasts. It offers a balance of comfort, control, and adjustability. To ensure that your Deluxe Select [paid link] continues to perform at its best over time, proper installation, regular maintenance, and occasional adjustments are crucial. In this guide, we will walk you through DIY hacks to extend the life of your Deluxe Select rear shock, from installation and adjustments to troubleshooting common issues and optimizing performance.

Tools Required

  • RockShox Deluxe Select Rear Shock
  • Shock pump
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • 8mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • Cleaning cloth
  • Suspension fluid (RockShox recommended)
  • Grease (for installation)
  • Compression and rebound setting tools
  • Rags for wiping down components

Installation of the Deluxe Select Rear Shock

Installing the RockShox Deluxe Select rear shock is straightforward if done correctly. However, it is essential to follow specific steps to ensure the shock works at optimal performance levels.

Step-by-step Installation Process:

  1. Prepare Your Bike: Before starting, make sure the bike is secure on a work stand, with the rear wheel removed. This will provide easy access to the shock mounting points.
  2. Grease the Mounting Hardware: Lightly grease the mounting bolts or hardware of the shock before installation to prevent rusting or seizing over time.
  3. Align the Shock: Place the Deluxe Select rear shock into its mounting position on the frame. Ensure that it is properly aligned with the mounting points.
  4. Torque the Bolts: Use an 8mm Allen wrench to tighten the bolts, ensuring that you apply the correct torque setting as recommended by the manufacturer. Over-tightening can damage the shock, while under-tightening can cause it to become loose during riding.
  5. Reinstall the Rear Wheel: Once the shock is secured, reinstall the rear wheel and check for any signs of interference or issues with the frame clearance.
  6. Check the Shock Pressure: Use a shock pump to set the air pressure in the shock. The ideal pressure depends on the rider’s weight and riding style, but a good starting point is typically around 200 psi for riders weighing between 140-180 pounds.

Adjusting Your Deluxe Select Rear Shock for Performance

The Deluxe Select rear shock offers both compression and rebound adjustments, which allow you to fine-tune the shock’s performance to match your riding style. Adjusting these settings properly can significantly enhance comfort and control.

Compression Adjustment:

  1. Locate the Compression Dial: The compression adjustment knob is typically located on the shock body. This knob controls how quickly or slowly the shock compresses under load.
  2. Adjust for Terrain: For smoother terrain, you may want a firmer compression setting to prevent excessive bottoming out. For rougher trails, soften the compression to allow the shock to absorb impacts more effectively.
  3. Fine-tune Based on Weight and Riding Style: Heavier riders or those riding aggressive trails may prefer a firmer compression, while lighter riders or those focused on comfort may prefer a softer setting.

Rebound Adjustment:

  1. Locate the Rebound Dial: The rebound dial, usually on the bottom of the shock, controls the speed at which the shock returns to its original position after compression.
  2. Adjust for Rider Preference: A slower rebound is ideal for riders tackling technical descents, as it allows the shock to return more gradually. Conversely, a faster rebound works well for smoother, faster terrain.
  3. Test Ride and Fine-Tune: After each adjustment, take the bike for a test ride and fine-tune the rebound until you find the right balance of comfort and control.

Maintenance Tips to Extend the Life of Your Deluxe Select Rear Shock

Maintaining your Deluxe Select rear shock is essential to keep it working at its peak [paid link] for years. Below are key DIY maintenance hacks you can implement to extend the life of your shock.

Clean the Shock Regularly

  1. Wipe Down the Shock: After every ride, wipe down the shock with a clean, dry cloth to remove dirt, mud, and debris. Accumulated dirt can cause damage to the shock’s seals and hinder performance.
  2. Inspect for Leaks: Check the shock’s seals and oil reservoir for any signs of leaking fluid. If you notice any leaks, the seals may need replacing, which is a simple job but should be done promptly to avoid further damage.

Lubricate the Shock

  1. Apply Suspension Fluid: Every few months, lubricate the shock’s internals with the recommended RockShox suspension fluid. This helps maintain smooth operation and prevent seal wear.
  2. Grease the Mounting Points: It is important to regularly apply grease to the mounting hardware, as this will prevent rust and wear over time, ensuring a secure fit and smoother operation.

Perform a Full Service Annually

  1. Disassemble the Shock: Once a year, or after heavy use, remove the shock from the bike and perform a full internal service. This includes inspecting the air can, cleaning the internals, and replacing suspension oil if necessary.
  2. Check the Seals: Inspect all seals for wear or damage. Replacing worn-out seals is crucial to avoid air loss and fluid leakage, which could degrade the shock’s performance.

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

Even the best shocks can encounter issues if they are not properly set up or maintained. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.

Problem 1: Shock Bottoming Out

Cause: If the shock bottoms out frequently, the air pressure may be too low for your weight and riding style.

Solution: Increase the air pressure using a shock pump. Be sure to check the rider’s weight range to ensure the pressure is within the recommended range.

Problem 2: The Shock Feels Too Soft or Too Firm

Cause: This can be caused by incorrect compression or rebound settings.

Solution: Adjust the compression and rebound knobs until you find a setting that matches your riding style. A firmer compression setting works well on smoother terrain, while a softer one is ideal for rougher trails.

Problem 3: Leaking Air or Fluid

Cause: Leaking air or suspension fluid can indicate a damaged seal or over-pressurized shock.

Solution: Check for any visible damage on the seals. If necessary, replace them with new seals and refill the suspension fluid. Always ensure the shock is not over-pressurized.

Optimizing Your Deluxe Select Rear Shock for Better Performance

To truly get the most out of your Deluxe Select rear shock, it’s important to optimize it for your specific riding style and terrain. Here are some tips for customizing the shock’s performance.

Customize the Air Pressure

  1. Experiment with Air Pressure: Adjust the air pressure based on your riding style and weight. If you’re tackling aggressive trails, a higher air pressure can prevent bottoming out. Lighter riders can opt for lower pressures for more comfort and control.
  2. Use Volume Spacers: The Deluxe Select shock allows for the addition of volume spacers to adjust the shock’s progression. If you feel like the shock is too linear or too progressive, adding or removing spacers can help dial in the performance to your preference.

Tune the Settings for the Terrain

  1. Adjust Based on Trail Type: For technical trails, you may need more rebound damping to slow down the shock’s return. On smoother trails, less rebound damping can make the ride feel more responsive.
  2. Consider the Temperature: Shock performance can vary with temperature. If you are riding in hot conditions, the air pressure in the shock might increase. Adjust the pressure accordingly before riding.

Conclusion

The RockShox Deluxe Select rear shock is a powerful and durable component that can last for many years if properly maintained. By following these DIY hacks, from installation and adjustments to troubleshooting and optimization, you can ensure your shock performs at its best for years to come. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and annual servicing will help extend the life of the shock, and optimizing its settings based on your riding style and terrain will enhance comfort and performance. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, these tips will help you get the most out of your Deluxe Select rear shock.