Upgrading your rear suspension with the Fox Float SL Performance [paid link] rear shock can significantly improve your bike’s performance, comfort, and overall ride quality. This detailed guide covers everything you need to know about the installation, adjustment, maintenance, troubleshooting, and customization of the Float SL Performance [paid link] rear shock. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cyclist, this guide will provide clear, expert-level advice for getting the most out of your new shock.

Tools Required

• 5mm hex wrench
• Torque wrench [paid link] (with appropriate settings)
• Suspension fluid (recommended by Fox)
• Shock pump
• Grease or anti-seize
• Soft cloth
• T25 Torx wrench [paid link]
• Rags for cleaning

Installation of Float SL Performance Rear Shock

Installing the Fox Float SL Performance rear shock is straightforward, but it’s crucial to follow the correct procedure to ensure optimal performance. Here’s a step-by-step guide to installing the shock properly:

1. Remove the Existing Shock: Begin by removing the old rear shock from your bike. Use a 5mm hex wrench to remove the mounting bolts and carefully slide the shock out of its frame mounts. Keep the mounting hardware for reuse unless replacing it.
2. Prepare the Mounting Area: Clean the shock mounting points on both the frame and the rear shock. Use a soft cloth to remove any dirt or debris. If necessary, apply a small amount of grease or anti-seize to prevent future corrosion and ease future maintenance.
3. Install the New Shock: Take your Fox Float SL Performance rear shock and position it in the shock mounts on the frame. Ensure that the shock is aligned correctly and that the mounting bolts are positioned properly.
4. Tighten the Mounting Bolts: Using your 5mm hex wrench, tighten the mounting bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings (usually around 25-30 Nm). This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your suspension setup.
5. Check Alignment: Once the shock is secured, ensure that the shock is positioned correctly and that there is no binding or interference with the frame or linkage. This will prevent any damage to the shock or bike during rides.
6. Set the Air Pressure: Use a shock pump to set the air pressure in the Float SL Performance shock. The recommended pressure will depend on your body weight, riding style, and suspension preferences. Generally, start with a pressure that corresponds to your body weight and adjust based on feel during the test ride.
7. Test the Installation: After installing the shock and adjusting the air pressure, gently compress the shock to ensure that it operates smoothly. Check for any unusual noises or resistance.

Adjustment of Float SL Performance Rear Shock

Adjusting the Float SL Performance rear shock to your riding style and terrain can drastically improve your bike’s handling. Here are the key adjustments to make:

Air Pressure

The air pressure in the shock should be set according to your weight and riding preferences. For more aggressive riding, slightly higher pressure may be needed, while lighter riders or those seeking comfort might prefer lower pressure. Refer to the shock’s pressure chart and use a shock pump to make the necessary adjustments.

Rebound Damping

The rebound damping control on the Float SL Performance rear shock allows you to adjust how quickly the shock returns after compression. For rougher terrain, slower rebound will help the shock stay in contact with the ground. For smoother trails, a faster rebound is generally more appropriate.

Compression Damping

Compression damping affects how the shock reacts when you hit bumps or obstacles. It is controlled by adjusting the low-speed and high-speed compression dials. Lower compression settings offer more comfort but less control, while higher compression settings provide firmer support but may sacrifice comfort.

Volume Spacers

Fox Float SL Performance rear shocks allow the use of volume spacers to change the shock’s progression. Adding spacers will make the shock feel firmer near the end of its stroke, which is useful for riders who want to prevent bottoming out during aggressive riding. Removing spacers will make the shock feel more linear, offering more plushness at the start of the stroke.

Maintenance of Float SL Performance Rear Shock

To ensure that your Fox Float SL Performance rear shock continues to perform at its best, regular maintenance is crucial. Here’s how to maintain the shock over time:

Cleaning

After each ride, use a soft cloth to wipe down the shock. Pay special attention to the area around the shock’s air valve and seals. This prevents dirt buildup that could lead to reduced performance or damage.

Air Sleeve Maintenance

The air sleeve should be serviced every 50-100 hours of riding. Over time, suspension fluid can degrade or get contaminated. To service the air sleeve:

1. Remove the shock from the bike.
2. Use a soft rag to clean the exterior of the shock.
3. Unscrew the air can, remove the seals, and clean the internal parts.
4. Reapply fresh suspension fluid and reassemble the shock, ensuring the seals are properly lubricated.

Shock Oil Service

Performing a shock oil service should be done approximately every 200-300 hours of riding or after extreme riding conditions. Fox recommends sending the shock to a certified technician for this service to ensure it is properly serviced and maintains its longevity.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

While the Float SL Performance rear shock is designed to provide high performance, certain issues can arise. Here’s how to troubleshoot common setup problems:

Lack of Comfort or Performance

• Cause: Low air pressure or incorrect rebound settings.
• Solution: Check and adjust the air pressure according to your weight and riding style. Fine-tune the rebound and compression damping to match your terrain and preference.

Bottoming Out

• Cause: Insufficient air pressure or too few volume spacers.
• Solution: Increase the air pressure in the shock or add more volume spacers. This will increase the shock’s resistance to bottoming out on hard impacts.

Unresponsive Shock

• Cause: Contaminated or degraded shock oil.
• Solution: Perform a shock oil service or have it serviced by a professional to restore optimal function.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

Customizing your Fox Float SL Performance rear shock allows you to optimize its performance for specific terrain and riding styles. Here are some key factors to consider when customizing your shock:

• Air Pressure: Adjust the air pressure based on your weight and the type of riding you do. Higher pressures are ideal for aggressive riders or technical terrain, while lower pressures are better suited for casual trail rides or comfort.
• Compression and Rebound Adjustments: Experiment with different compression and rebound damping settings to fine-tune the shock to your personal preference. Faster rebound speeds are ideal for smoother trails, while slower rebound speeds are better for aggressive, technical terrain.
• Volume Spacers: Add or remove volume spacers based on how the shock feels during rides. More spacers will give a more progressive feel, while fewer spacers will offer more plushness.

Comparison with Similar Models

When comparing the Fox Float SL Performance rear shock to other rear shocks on the market, several features set it apart:

• Weight: The Float SL Performance is one of the lighter options available, making it ideal for riders looking to minimize bike weight without sacrificing performance.
• Adjustability: The Float SL offers a wide range of adjustments, including air pressure, compression, rebound, and volume spacers. This makes it more customizable than many other models in its category.
• Durability: Fox’s proprietary materials and design ensure that the Float SL Performance rear shock can handle extreme conditions and provide long-lasting performance.

In comparison to models like the Fox Float X2 or RockShox Super Deluxe, the Float SL Performance may offer less deep adjustment for more technical riders but is a great choice for riders who prioritize lightweight performance with solid all-around capability.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Fox Float SL Performance rear shock is designed to be compatible with a wide variety of mountain bike frames and drivetrain setups. However, it’s important to ensure that your bike’s frame is optimized for a shock of this size and design.

When upgrading, make sure to check the shock’s eye-to-eye length and stroke to ensure proper fitment with your frame. Compatibility with other drivetrain components is usually not an issue, but double-checking the shock’s specifications can help you avoid surprises during installation.