Upgrading Your Suspension with Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shocks

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Suspension performance plays a critical role in the overall ride quality of your bike, particularly when tackling rough terrain. The Marzocchi Bomber Air Trunnion [paid link] rear shock is designed to provide superior damping performance and adjustability for serious mountain bikers. This guide will cover the installation, adjustment, maintenance, troubleshooting, customization, and comparison of the Bomber Air Trunnion [paid link] rear shock, helping you get the most out of your upgrade.

Tools Required

  • 5mm hex wrench
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • 8mm hex wrench
  • Shock pump (with gauge)
  • Rags for cleaning
  • Lubricant (grease)
  • 10mm and 15mm wrenches for bolt removal
  • Isopropyl alcohol for cleaning
  • Socket wrench for tightening bolts

Installation of Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock

Installing the Bomber Air [paid link] Trunnion rear shock is a straightforward process, but it requires precision to ensure that everything functions optimally. Follow these steps for proper installation:

  1. Remove the old shock: Use a 5mm hex wrench to remove the bolts attaching your old shock to the frame. Make sure to keep track of the washers and bolts for reinstallation.
  2. Clean the mounting points: Before installing the new shock, clean the shock mounts and ensure that there is no dirt or debris in the area. This prevents contamination from affecting the shock’s performance.
  3. Install the Bomber Air [paid link] Trunnion shock: Align the shock’s eyelet with the mounting points on the bike frame. Insert the bolts through the mounting holes and tighten them by hand initially.
  4. Torque the bolts: Use a torque wrench [paid link] to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification, typically around 200–250 in-lb (check the manual for exact specs). This ensures that the shock is securely fastened.
  5. Attach the air hose: Connect the shock pump to the valve on the Bomber Air Trunnion rear shock and begin inflating it to the recommended pressure based on your weight and riding style. The shock’s air pressure affects both the ride quality and the responsiveness of the suspension.

Adjusting the Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock

Once installed, adjusting the Bomber Air Trunnion rear shock is key to achieving the best performance for your specific riding needs. Marzocchi designed this rear shock with a variety of adjusters that allow you to fine-tune the damping and responsiveness:

Air Pressure

  • Setting air pressure: Start by adjusting the air pressure based on your body weight and riding style. Typically, this involves inflating the shock to about 25–30% of the total shock stroke for sag, but you can adjust based on personal preference.
  • Fine-tuning pressure: After an initial test ride, you may need to fine-tune the pressure. If the suspension feels too soft or too stiff, adjust the pressure accordingly. Softer pressure can provide more plushness on rough trails, while stiffer pressure offers better support during jumps.

Rebound Damping

  • Adjust rebound speed: The rebound adjuster is located at the bottom of the shock. It controls how quickly the shock returns to its original position after compression. A slower rebound is ideal for heavier riders or for rougher trails, while a faster rebound works better on smoother terrain. Adjust in small increments and test the feel on the trail.

Compression Damping

  • Compression settings: The compression adjuster allows you to control how the shock reacts to impacts. The Bomber Air Trunnion shock offers external high- and low-speed compression adjustments. Low-speed compression is useful for controlling how the shock reacts to body movements, while high-speed compression controls how the shock handles bigger hits like drops or jumps.
  • Dialing in compression: For aggressive riders or those tackling steep downhill sections, increased compression damping can prevent bottoming out. On the other hand, riders focused on climbing may benefit from reducing compression to allow better suspension compliance and traction.

Maintenance of the Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock

Maintaining your Bomber Air Trunnion rear shock is crucial for ensuring consistent performance and longevity. Regular maintenance prevents wear and tear while ensuring optimal function.

  1. Clean the shock after each ride: After riding, clean the shock’s body using a clean rag to remove dirt and debris. Make sure to wipe down the air valve to avoid contamination when adjusting the air pressure.
  2. Lubricate the mounting bushings: Apply a small amount of grease to the mounting bushings before installation to ensure smooth movement. This prevents friction between the shock and frame.
  3. Check air pressure regularly: The air pressure should be checked before every ride. Temperature and altitude changes can affect the air pressure, so it’s important to verify it to ensure the shock performs properly.
  4. Inspect for leaks: Periodically inspect the shock for any signs of leakage around the seals. Leaks can drastically affect performance, and in such cases, a service may be required.
  5. Annual servicing: At least once a year, have the Bomber Air Trunnion shock serviced by a qualified technician. This service may include a full rebuild, where the seals are replaced, and the oil is refreshed to maintain peak [paid link] performance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with regular maintenance, problems can arise with the Bomber Air Trunnion rear shock. Here are some common issues and their solutions:

  1. Shock Bottoming Out: This usually occurs when the air pressure is too low or the compression settings are too soft. Increase the air pressure or adjust the compression settings for more resistance on big hits.
  2. Excessive Rebound: If the shock feels overly springy or rebounds too quickly, try slowing down the rebound setting. This is often necessary for larger riders or rougher terrain.
  3. Suspension Not Returning Properly: If the shock doesn’t return to its normal position or feels sluggish, it may indicate that the air pressure is too high or that there’s a problem with the internal components. In such cases, disassemble the shock or take it to a professional for servicing.

Customizing the Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock for Better Performance

To optimize your Bomber Air Trunnion rear shock, consider customizing it based on your riding preferences and the terrain you most often ride on. Some key adjustments include:

  • Sag Settings: Adjust the air pressure to achieve around 25% sag for a balanced ride. This ensures that the suspension remains active and absorbs impacts effectively.
  • High-Speed Compression: If you’re riding on extremely technical, rocky trails, increase the high-speed compression damping to prevent excessive suspension movement and improve control.
  • Low-Speed Compression: For those who focus on climbing or smooth trail rides, reducing the low-speed compression can improve traction and efficiency, allowing for better pedal performance.

Comparing the Bomber Air Trunnion with Similar Models

When selecting the right rear shock for your bike, it’s important to consider similar models for comparison. The Bomber Air Trunnion rear shock is known for its durable build and adjustable damping. Compared to other shocks in the market, such as the Fox DPX2 or RockShox Super Deluxe, the Bomber Air Trunnion offers similar levels of adjustability but at a more budget-friendly price point.

  • Bomber Air Trunnion vs. Fox DPX2: The Fox DPX2 is known for its refined damping performance and lighter weight, making it ideal for cross-country riders. However, it may not offer the same level of durability as the Bomber Air Trunnion, which is better suited for aggressive riders or those who need a more robust shock for downhill use.
  • Bomber Air Trunnion vs. RockShox Super Deluxe: The Super Deluxe is another competitor in the mid-range shock category. The Bomber Air Trunnion, while comparable in performance, typically offers a slightly more forgiving setup for heavy riders or those who tackle rougher terrain more frequently.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Bomber Air Trunnion rear shock is compatible with a wide range of frames and drivetrains, including both SRAM and Shimano systems. It’s essential to check the shock’s mounting hardware and ensure it matches your bike’s frame configuration. Marzocchi offers a variety of mounting hardware options for compatibility across various frame types, from cross-country to enduro bikes. Always ensure that the shock’s dimensions and mounting points are compatible with your bike before purchase.

With the right adjustments and regular maintenance, the Marzocchi Bomber Air Trunnion rear shock offers an excellent upgrade for improving your bike’s suspension performance. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, this shock will enhance your ride and give you the edge you need on the trails.