Maintaining your RockShox Super Deluxe Coil Select [paid link] rear shock is essential to ensure optimal performance, extend the lifespan of the shock, and enhance your overall riding experience. Regular preventative maintenance can prevent costly repairs, minimize downtime, and keep your bike performing at its best. This guide will walk you through the key aspects of maintaining your Super Deluxe Coil Select [paid link] rear shock, covering installation, adjustments, troubleshooting, and ongoing care.
Installation of the Super Deluxe Coil Select Rear Shock
The installation of your Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock requires precision to ensure it functions optimally. Follow these steps for a proper setup.
Step-by-step Installation Process:
- Preparation: Start by ensuring that your bike’s frame is compatible with the Super Deluxe Coil Select shock. Verify the shock’s dimensions, including eye-to-eye length and stroke, to ensure it fits within your frame’s requirements.
- Remove the Existing Shock: Use a wrench or shock tool to remove the old shock. Be sure to carefully support the rear of the bike to avoid damage while removing the shock.
- Install the New Shock: Align the Super Deluxe Coil Select shock with the mounting hardware. Insert the shock into the frame’s mounting points, ensuring that the eyelet bolts are correctly positioned.
- Tighten the Bolts: Use the correct torque specifications provided by RockShox to tighten the mounting bolts. Ensure the bolts are secure but avoid over-tightening to prevent damaging the shock.
- Check for Proper Alignment: Ensure that the shock is installed straight and that no part of the shock is misaligned or rubbing against the frame. This will prevent unnecessary wear on both the shock and the frame.
Tools Required:
- 5mm or 6mm Allen wrench [paid link]
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Shock mounting hardware (if needed)
- Shock pump
Adjustment and Setup
To get the most out of your Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock, proper adjustment is crucial. This shock allows for compression and rebound adjustments, enabling you to fine-tune it according to your riding style and terrain.
Setting the Sag:
- Check the Rider’s Weight: The Super Deluxe Coil Select is equipped with a coil spring that must be chosen based on the rider’s weight. Start by ensuring that the correct spring rate is installed. Use RockShox’s recommended weight chart to select the appropriate spring.
- Set the Sag: The correct sag is essential for proper shock performance. For most riders, 25-30% sag is ideal. To measure sag, use a shock pump to inflate the shock and mark the shock body or use zip ties on the shaft to gauge the amount of travel. Adjust the air pressure or spring preload to achieve the correct sag.
Compression and Rebound Adjustments:
- Compression: The compression knob adjusts how the shock resists compression. Start by setting the compression to mid-range and adjust based on your riding style. For smoother terrain, a softer setting may be better, while rougher trails might benefit from stiffer compression settings.
- Rebound: The rebound knob controls the shock’s return speed after compression. Set it so that the shock returns at a controlled speed, preventing it from rebounding too quickly or too slowly. A good starting point is to set the rebound to a medium position, then fine-tune for specific terrain.
Preventative Maintenance Checklist
Regular preventative maintenance can help avoid costly repairs and maintain performance. Below is a simple checklist for keeping your Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock in top condition.
Routine Maintenance:
- Clean the Shock: After each ride, wipe down the shock with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Avoid using high-pressure water, which could force contaminants into the shock’s seals.
- Lubricate the Shock: Apply a light coat of silicone grease to the shock’s mounting hardware and seals to ensure smooth operation. Avoid excessive lubrication, which can attract dirt.
- Inspect for Leaks: Regularly inspect the shock for oil leaks or signs of damage. If you notice any issues, such as oil stains on the shock body, address them immediately to prevent further damage.
- Check the Spring: Inspect the coil spring for any signs of wear, such as scratches or rust. Clean and lubricate the spring occasionally to ensure it performs well.
- Check the Mounting Hardware: Ensure that the mounting bolts remain tight and in good condition. If any bolts are worn or damaged, replace them promptly.
Annual Maintenance:
- Air Can Service: RockShox recommends a full air can service every 12 months. This includes removing the air can, cleaning the internal components, and replacing any worn or damaged seals.
- Full Suspension Service: Every year, take your Super Deluxe Coil Select shock to a certified RockShox technician for a complete suspension service, including shock oil change, seal replacement, and overall inspection.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Understanding how to troubleshoot common setup problems can save you time and ensure your shock operates at peak [paid link] performance.
1. Shock Not Compressing Smoothly:
- Cause: This may be due to an incorrect spring rate or too much preload.
- Solution: Check the spring rate and adjust the preload. If the spring rate is too high, it may need to be replaced with one more appropriate for your weight.
2. Excessive Rebound:
- Cause: The rebound setting is too fast.
- Solution: Turn the rebound knob clockwise to slow down the rebound speed. Perform small adjustments to find the optimal setting.
3. Bottoming Out on Large Impacts:
- Cause: The compression setting may be too soft or the sag may be incorrect.
- Solution: Adjust the compression setting to a firmer setting. If bottoming out continues, check the sag again to ensure it’s within the recommended range.
Customization and Optimization
The RockShox Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock offers several customization options to improve its performance based on your specific riding needs.
Fine-Tuning Your Suspension:
- Custom Spring Rate: If you find that the standard spring rate doesn’t suit your needs, consider swapping the coil spring for one with a different rate. A firmer or softer spring will provide better support based on your weight and riding style.
- Volume Spacers: Volume spacers can be added to adjust the progressiveness of the shock. Adding spacers increases the shock’s resistance towards the end of the stroke, reducing the likelihood of bottoming out.
- High- and Low-Speed Compression: Some riders may benefit from adjusting both high- and low-speed compression settings, which help manage how the shock reacts to different trail conditions. Fine-tuning both can significantly enhance shock control and comfort.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock is designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of modern mountain bike setups. However, it is important to consider how the shock interacts with other components, particularly the frame and drivetrain.
Frame Compatibility:
- Rear Triangle Geometry: The Super Deluxe Coil Select is compatible with frames that support coil shocks. Ensure your frame’s geometry allows for the shock’s specific eye-to-eye length and stroke to avoid any misalignment or interference.
- Mounting Hardware: Depending on the frame, you may need specific mounting hardware to install the shock. Always verify that the shock mount system is compatible with the Super Deluxe Coil Select’s design.
Drivetrain Compatibility:
- Suspension and Drivetrain Interactions: A well-maintained shock ensures that the bike maintains its geometry during suspension travel, minimizing pedal bob and optimizing drivetrain performance. Riders should balance the shock settings to avoid unnecessary drivetrain wear.