DIY Rear Shock Sag Setup for Super Deluxe Ultimate DH

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When it comes to getting the most out of your RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate DH [paid link] rear shock, one of the most important factors to consider is proper sag setup. Sag is the amount the rear shock compresses under your body weight when you’re on the bike, and getting it right is crucial for both performance and comfort. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps required for the perfect sag setup on your Super Deluxe Ultimate DH [paid link], helping you dial in your suspension for optimal ride quality and control.

Understanding Rear Shock Sag

Sag is the initial compression of the rear shock when you sit on your bike in riding position. It’s a critical setting that influences how your suspension behaves during a ride. If the sag is too little, your bike will feel too stiff and won’t absorb bumps effectively. If it’s too much, your bike will feel too soft, reducing responsiveness and control.

The Super Deluxe Ultimate DH is a high-performance shock designed for downhill racing and aggressive trail riding. Ensuring the correct sag will not only improve your bike’s performance but also help prevent premature wear on your suspension.

Tools Required

To set the sag on your RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate DH, you’ll need the following tools:

  • A shock pump
  • A tape measure or ruler
  • A small amount of grease
  • A sag indicator (e.g., zip tie or specialized sag tool)
  • A flat, stable surface (such as a bike stand [paid link])

Setting Up the Super Deluxe Ultimate DH Sag

Step 1: Prepare Your Bike and Shock

Before you start adjusting the sag on your Super Deluxe Ultimate DH rear shock, ensure your bike is in a stable position. Use a bike stand [paid link] to keep the bike upright or have a friend hold it. Make sure the shock is fully inflated to its baseline pressure before starting, as this will give you a proper reference point.

Step 2: Set Your Rider Weight and Shock Pressure

The first thing you’ll need to do is set the air pressure in the shock. RockShox typically provides a suggested air pressure range based on rider weight, but this may vary depending on personal preference and riding style.

  • Refer to the RockShox pressure chart or your shock’s manual for recommended starting pressure based on your body weight.
  • Use a shock pump to set the air pressure in the Super Deluxe Ultimate DH to the recommended level. If you don’t have the chart, start by inflating to 200 psi and adjust from there based on your results.

Step 3: Install the Sag Indicator

To measure sag accurately, use a sag indicator. A common method is to attach a small zip tie around the shock’s stanchion (the upper part of the shock shaft). Alternatively, some riders use a dedicated sag tool designed for the Super Deluxe Ultimate DH.

  • Slide the zip tie or sag indicator up against the shock’s seal, so it doesn’t interfere with the shock’s movement.
  • Ensure the zip tie is secure but not too tight, allowing it to move freely as the shock compresses.

Step 4: Set Your Riding Position

Put on your full riding gear, including your helmet, shoes, and any protective padding. This ensures the shock sag is measured under real riding conditions and the weight that will be on the bike during typical use.

  • Stand in your normal riding position, placing your weight evenly on the bike while keeping your feet on the pedals and your body in the saddle. Do not hang off the handlebars or shift your body excessively, as this can skew the sag measurement.

Step 5: Check the Sag

With the zip tie or sag indicator in place and your weight on the bike, gently bounce up and down on the pedals a couple of times to allow the shock to settle into its natural position.

  • Check where the zip tie has moved to on the shock’s stanchion.
  • Measure the distance between the fully extended position and the current position of the zip tie. This distance is your sag.
  • For the Super Deluxe Ultimate DH, aim for around 30-35% sag based on your body weight. If you’re unsure, start with 30% as a safe baseline and adjust from there.

Step 6: Adjust the Air Pressure

If the sag is too little or too much, adjust the air pressure accordingly:

  • If the sag is less than the recommended range (too stiff), reduce the air pressure by releasing some air using the shock pump. Be cautious and make small adjustments at a time.
  • If the sag is greater than the recommended range (too soft), increase the air pressure slightly until you reach the desired sag.

After each adjustment, repeat the sag measurement process to ensure the shock’s performance is within the optimal range.

Step 7: Fine-Tuning

Once you’ve achieved the correct sag, fine-tune the shock’s other settings such as rebound and compression damping for additional customization based on your riding style and preferences. These adjustments will further improve the shock’s responsiveness, offering better control and comfort on rough terrain.

Troubleshooting Common Sag Setup Issues

Issue 1: Shock Feels Too Soft or Too Harsh

  • Possible Cause: If the shock feels too soft or too harsh despite correct sag, it may be a sign that your rebound or compression settings are off. Adjust the rebound settings first to ensure the shock is returning to its proper position without feeling sluggish or too quick.

Issue 2: Air Pressure Keeps Dropping

  • Possible Cause: If you find that the air pressure in your shock is dropping frequently, it may indicate a slow air leak. Inspect the air valve and the shock body for signs of damage or wear. If no leaks are found, ensure that the shock pump is securely connected to the valve when adding air.

Issue 3: Difficulty Achieving Proper Sag

  • Possible Cause: If you’re struggling to achieve the recommended sag, check whether the shock pressure is within the right range for your weight. If necessary, consult with a professional mechanic or contact RockShox for specific troubleshooting advice.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

To maximize the performance of your Super Deluxe Ultimate DH rear shock, consider the following optimization tips:

  • Rebound Adjustments: Adjust the rebound damping to control how quickly the shock extends after compression. Slower rebound can offer more stability, while faster rebound allows for better handling in technical sections.
  • Compression Settings: Fine-tune the compression settings to control how much the shock compresses under impact. For aggressive downhill riding, you may want a firmer compression setting to prevent bottoming out.
  • Volume Spacers: Adding volume spacers can modify the shock’s progressive rate, which affects how it behaves at the end of the stroke. This is particularly useful if you’re finding that the shock bottoms out too easily.

Comparison with Similar Models

While the RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate DH is specifically designed for aggressive downhill riders, other models like the RockShox Vivid Air or Fox Float X2 might also be considered depending on your riding preferences. Here’s how they compare:

  • RockShox Vivid Air: Offers a similar level of performance but may not have the same level of adjustability, particularly in terms of high-speed compression.
  • Fox Float X2: Known for its excellent high-speed compression control and more advanced damping adjustments, but it’s typically more expensive than the Super Deluxe Ultimate DH.

If you’re after a shock with extreme tuning capabilities and a focus on downhill performance, the Super Deluxe Ultimate DH offers an ideal balance of price and performance.

Understanding Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate DH is compatible with most modern mountain bike frames designed for downhill use. Ensure that your frame has the correct rear shock mounting dimensions to avoid compatibility issues. The shock also pairs well with a variety of drivetrain components, such as SRAM’s Eagle and Shimano’s XT and XTR series, offering a smooth, responsive ride.