Servicing Your Super Deluxe Ultimate DH Rear Shock: Tools and Tips

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Maintaining and servicing your RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate DH [paid link] rear shock is crucial for ensuring optimal performance on your downhill rides. A well-maintained rear shock enhances your bike’s handling, comfort, and safety. This guide will walk you through the tools and techniques required to keep your Super Deluxe Ultimate DH [paid link] in top condition, troubleshoot common issues, and fine-tune its performance.

Tools Required

To service the RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate DH rear shock, you will need the following tools:

  • 5mm, 6mm, and 8mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
  • Torque wrench [paid link] (with appropriate torque range)
  • Suspension fluid (RockShox recommended)
  • Air pump with Schrader valve adapter
  • Snap ring pliers
  • Suspension oil (RockShox recommended type)
  • Rags or clean cloths
  • Small, soft brush (for cleaning)
  • Oil catch tray
  • T10 Torx driver (for specific internal screws)
  • Needle-nose pliers (for circlip removal)
  • Small flathead screwdriver
  • Replacement seals and bushings

Installation and Adjustment of the Super Deluxe Ultimate DH Rear Shock

Installation

Installing the Super Deluxe Ultimate DH rear shock onto your bike is a straightforward process, but precision is key. Here’s how to do it properly:

  1. Prepare the shock and frame: Ensure the shock is clean and free of debris. You should also check the frame’s shock mounts to ensure they are clear of dirt and grease.
  2. Mount the shock: Place the shock in the frame’s shock mount. Make sure that the shock’s eyelets align perfectly with the frame’s mounting points.
  3. Install the hardware: Secure the shock with the provided bolts. Tighten each bolt to the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings (usually around 8–10Nm). Use a torque wrench [paid link] for accuracy.
  4. Check alignment: Once installed, double-check that the shock is positioned correctly and is not contacting any part of the frame.

Adjustment

The Super Deluxe Ultimate DH rear shock is designed with multiple adjustment options, allowing you to tailor it to your riding style and terrain. The primary adjustments to focus on include:

  1. Air Spring Pressure: This adjustment controls the shock’s overall support and firmness. Use an air pump to add or release air through the Schrader valve. Aim for a sag of approximately 30% of the shock’s total travel.
  2. Rebound Damping: Adjust the rebound damping to control the shock’s return speed. Turn the rebound knob (located at the bottom of the shock) to increase or decrease the rebound. Faster rebound settings are suitable for smoother terrain, while slower settings are ideal for rougher, more aggressive rides.
  3. Compression Damping: The Super Deluxe Ultimate DH features separate high-speed and low-speed compression damping controls. Adjust the low-speed compression to manage the shock’s response to smaller bumps and pedaling forces. High-speed compression affects how the shock reacts to big impacts, so adjust it based on the type of terrain you expect to encounter.

Maintenance of the Super Deluxe Ultimate DH Rear Shock

Regular Maintenance Schedule

Proper maintenance is essential to keep the Super Deluxe Ultimate DH rear shock functioning at its best. Follow this schedule to ensure your shock performs optimally:

  • Every 50 hours of riding or once a month: Clean the shock, check the air pressure, and inspect the seals for wear or damage.
  • Every 150 hours of riding or twice a year: Perform a lower leg service, which involves removing the lower part of the shock to clean the internals and replace the oil.
  • Every 200–300 hours of riding or annually: Perform a full service, which includes disassembling the shock, replacing the seals and oil, and checking for any damage to the shock’s internal components.

Lower Leg Service

The lower leg service is a key maintenance procedure that helps maintain the shock’s performance. Follow these steps to perform a lower leg service:

  1. Remove the shock from the bike: Use a 5mm Allen wrench [paid link] to unscrew the mounting bolts and carefully remove the shock from the bike frame.
  2. Disassemble the shock: Use a T10 Torx driver to remove the screws that secure the lower part of the shock. Remove the air can from the shock body.
  3. Clean the shock parts: Thoroughly clean the air can and shock body with a clean rag, removing all dirt and debris. Ensure that you don’t allow any debris to enter the shock internals.
  4. Replace the seals and oil: Check the condition of the seals. If they appear worn or damaged, replace them with new ones. Refill the shock with the appropriate suspension fluid as recommended by RockShox.
  5. Reassemble the shock: Carefully reassemble the shock by reversing the disassembly steps. Ensure the parts are aligned correctly, and torque the screws to the recommended settings.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

Insufficient Rebound

If you experience sluggish or overly fast rebound, it might indicate an issue with the shock’s internal damper or rebound setting. Here’s what to do:

  • Check the rebound adjustment: Turn the rebound knob clockwise to slow it down and counterclockwise to speed it up. Ensure it’s set appropriately for the terrain.
  • Check the oil level: Low or old oil can affect rebound. If necessary, perform a full shock service, replacing the oil and seals.

Air Pressure Fluctuations

If the air pressure fluctuates too much, you might be dealing with a slow air leak. Here’s how to diagnose it:

  • Inspect the Schrader valve: Check the valve for any visible signs of damage or leaks. Use soapy water to check for bubbles.
  • Check the air can: If the air can is damaged or the seal is worn, air can escape [paid link], causing pressure loss. In this case, a full service may be required.

No Compression Damping

If the shock feels too soft or bottoms out too easily, there may be an issue with the compression damping settings:

  • Adjust the compression damping: Use the low-speed and high-speed compression knobs to adjust the shock. Start with a small adjustment and test ride.
  • Check for internal damage: If the shock is still not functioning correctly after adjustments, there could be internal damage, such as a blown seal or worn-out damper. A full shock service will be necessary.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

To get the best performance from your Super Deluxe Ultimate DH rear shock, consider the following tips for customization:

  1. Tune the settings based on terrain: If you’re riding a mixture of downhill and technical trails, adjusting the compression and rebound settings can optimize your ride. For smoother terrain, you might prefer a faster rebound, while slower rebound settings work better for rough, rocky tracks.
  2. Use the right shock pump: Use a high-quality shock pump that is calibrated for precise measurements. This helps maintain the correct air pressure and prevents over-pressurization.
  3. Upgrade to higher-quality seals and oil: If you’re looking for long-lasting performance, using higher-quality seals and suspension fluid can provide a smoother ride and prolong the life of your shock.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Super Deluxe Ultimate DH rear shock is compatible with most modern downhill bike frames that feature a standard rear shock mount. However, always verify the dimensions and mounting requirements of your frame before purchasing. The shock is designed to work seamlessly with a wide variety of drivetrains, including SRAM and Shimano setups, as long as the bike’s geometry and shock mount standards match.

Frame Compatibility

Check the eye-to-eye length and stroke of the shock before installing it onto your bike. Ensure that these measurements match the specifications of your frame. If you’re uncertain, consult the manufacturer or a professional bike shop for compatibility.

Suspension Tuning and Drivetrain Interaction

The shock’s performance will directly affect how your bike handles and interacts with the drivetrain. A well-tuned shock helps maintain better traction and stability, preventing unwanted power loss when pedaling. Adjust the shock based on your riding style and terrain for optimal drivetrain efficiency.