The ElevenSix Trunnion [paid link] Rear Shock from Push Industries is a high-performance upgrade for riders seeking the ultimate in suspension technology. With its advanced damping system and precision engineering, this shock offers improved handling, comfort, and control over various terrains. In this guide, we will walk through the installation, adjustment, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the ElevenSix Trunnion [paid link] Rear Shock, along with tips for optimizing your suspension setup.

Installation of the ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock

Installing the ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock correctly is crucial for ensuring optimal performance. This process requires precision and attention to detail to avoid any damage to the shock or bike frame.

Tools Required:

• 5mm and 6mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
• Torque wrench [paid link] (set to manufacturer’s recommended torque settings)
• Soft cloth or towel
• Grease or anti-seize lubricant

Steps for Installation:

1. Remove the Existing Shock: Begin by removing the current rear shock from your bike. Use the appropriate Allen wrenches [paid link] to undo the bolts securing the shock to the frame and linkage. Carefully remove the shock and set it aside.
2. Clean the Mounting Points: Wipe the mounting points on both the bike frame and shock linkage with a soft cloth to remove dirt and debris. This helps ensure a smooth and secure fit for the new shock.
3. Grease the Shock Eyelets: Apply a light layer of grease or anti-seize lubricant to the shock’s eyelets. This prevents corrosion and ensures smooth movement during the suspension’s operation.
4. Position the Shock: Align the ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock with the frame’s mounting points. Make sure that the shock’s trunnion mount fits securely into the designated space.
5. Install the Shock: Insert the shock’s bolts through the eyelets and secure them tightly. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s torque specifications, typically between 5-8Nm for the mounting bolts.
6. Check for Proper Alignment: After installation, ensure that the shock is perfectly aligned and that there is no interference with the frame or linkage. A misaligned shock can cause premature wear and poor suspension performance.
7. Test the Shock: With the shock installed, compress and rebound it by hand to ensure smooth movement. This will confirm that the shock is securely mounted and properly aligned.

Adjusting the ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock

The ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock offers a range of adjustments that allow riders to fine-tune their suspension based on their weight, riding style, and terrain conditions.

Key Adjustments:

• Rebound Damping: Adjust the rebound damping to control the rate at which the shock returns to its normal position after compression. A slower rebound provides more control over rough terrain, while a faster rebound is better for smoother trails.
• Compression Damping: The shock features high- and low-speed compression damping. High-speed compression affects the shock’s performance during rapid impacts, such as hitting rocks or drops. Low-speed compression helps to fine-tune the suspension’s response to small bumps and pedal strokes.
• Spring Rate: The ElevenSix comes with different spring options to match the rider’s weight. Ensure the correct spring rate is chosen to achieve the best balance of comfort and performance. The shock’s spring rate can be adjusted by replacing the spring with one that suits your body weight and riding style.

Adjusting for Terrain:

• For technical, rocky trails, increase compression damping to avoid bottoming out on large hits.
• For smooth, flowy trails, reduce compression damping for a more supple feel and better traction.

Maintenance of the ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock

Maintaining your ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock ensures that it continues to perform optimally throughout its lifespan. Regular maintenance is essential to keep the shock functioning at its peak [paid link] and to extend its longevity.

Routine Maintenance:

• Check Air Pressure: Regularly check the air pressure in the shock and adjust it according to your weight and riding conditions. Over time, the shock’s air pressure can drop, leading to a decrease in performance.
• Clean the Shock: After each ride, wipe down the shock with a soft cloth to remove dirt, mud, and moisture. This will prevent grime from accumulating on the shock’s seals and improve its overall lifespan.
• Inspect the Seals: The seals of the shock prevent dirt and water from entering the internal components. Check them periodically for signs of wear or damage. Replace the seals if necessary to prevent performance issues.
• Oil Changes: Push Industries recommends having the shock’s oil changed every 50-75 hours of riding. Over time, the oil can degrade and lose its damping properties, so regular servicing ensures that the shock remains responsive.

Professional Servicing:

It is advisable to have your ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock professionally serviced at regular intervals, especially if you are riding in extreme conditions or heavily using your bike.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Although the ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock is a high-quality piece of engineering, it can encounter common issues that may affect its performance. Here’s how to troubleshoot some of the most frequent problems.

Shock Bottoming Out:

• Possible Cause: If the shock bottoms out too frequently, it could indicate that the spring rate is too soft or the compression damping is set too low.
• Solution: Adjust the spring rate to match your body weight and riding style, and increase compression damping to prevent excessive travel on big hits.

Unstable Rebound:

• Possible Cause: If the rebound feels unstable, with the shock either bouncing back too quickly or too slowly, it might be due to improper rebound damping settings or low air pressure.
• Solution: Adjust the rebound damping and check the air pressure. Also, inspect the shock for any signs of oil leaks or internal damage.

Noisy Shock:

• Possible Cause: A noisy shock is often caused by dirt or debris in the shock’s moving parts.
• Solution: Clean the shock thoroughly, paying particular attention to the shock’s bushings and seals. Lubricate the eyelets and ensure proper installation.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

The ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock offers a high level of customization for riders who want to optimize their suspension for different riding conditions and personal preferences.

Fine-Tuning for Performance:

• Rider Weight: Select the right spring rate based on your weight to ensure proper suspension performance. A proper spring ensures that the shock performs optimally and does not bottom out.
• Riding Style: Adjust the damping settings based on your riding style. For aggressive riders who take on big drops and rough terrain, stiffening the compression and slowing the rebound will offer more control. For smoother riders, a softer setup will provide a plush feel.
• Terrain Adaptation: Different trails require different shock settings. For rocky terrain, firm up the compression damping to prevent bottoming out. On smoother trails, a softer setup will provide better comfort and traction.

Comparison with Similar Models

While the ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock stands out due to its customizability and exceptional damping, there are other high-performance rear shocks available on the market. Here’s how it compares to similar models.

ElevenSix vs. Fox DHX2:

• The Fox DHX2 is another high-performance rear shock that rivals the ElevenSix in terms of adjustability. However, the ElevenSix offers more precise tuning options for both compression and rebound, making it a better choice for riders who want more control over their suspension settings.
• ElevenSix: Known for its superior damping consistency, customization options, and long-term performance.
• Fox DHX2: Offers a slightly more supple ride but may not provide the same level of fine-tuning precision.

ElevenSix vs. RockShox Super Deluxe:

• The RockShox Super Deluxe is a solid option, but the ElevenSix’s trunnion mount design offers better frame integration, improving shock responsiveness. Additionally, the ElevenSix features a more advanced coil shock system, providing smoother performance and more support under heavy loads.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock is designed to be compatible with a wide range of bike frames and drivetrain systems. However, compatibility may vary depending on the frame and the specific type of suspension system being used.

Compatibility Considerations:

• Bike Frame: Ensure that the frame is designed to support the trunnion mount configuration. Some frames are not compatible with trunnion-based shocks.
• Drivetrain: The ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock functions independently of the drivetrain, but it’s essential to ensure that the bike frame can accommodate the shock while maintaining clearance with other drivetrain components.