The Bomber Air Trunnion [paid link] Rear Shock from Marzocchi represents a breakthrough in rear suspension technology for mountain biking, offering riders exceptional performance, comfort, and adjustability. This guide provides a detailed, expert-level walkthrough for the installation, adjustment, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the Bomber Air Trunnion [paid link], as well as insights into its compatibility with other components. Whether you are a beginner looking to enhance your bike’s performance or an experienced rider wanting to fine-tune your setup, this article will cover everything you need to know about the Bomber Air [paid link] Trunnion Rear Shock.
Installation of the Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock
Installing the Bomber Air [paid link] Trunnion Rear Shock is a straightforward process that requires some technical know-how. It’s important to follow the correct steps to ensure proper function and avoid damage to the shock or your bike frame.
Step-by-Step Installation
- Prepare the Frame
Ensure that your bike frame is compatible with a trunnion-mount shock. The Bomber Air Trunnion features a specific mounting standard, so check that the mount spacing on your frame aligns with the shock’s dimensions. - Remove the Existing Shock
If you are replacing an old shock, use a wrench to remove the bolts holding the shock in place. Be careful not to damage the mounting hardware during removal. - Install the Bomber Air Trunnion Shock
Place the shock into the mounting bracket of your frame. Align the shock’s mounting holes with the corresponding frame mounts. Insert the bolts through the shock’s eyes and secure them with a torque wrench [paid link], following the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. Be sure the shock is positioned correctly to avoid any misalignment or stress on the frame. - Check for Clearance
Once the shock is installed, check for adequate clearance between the shock and surrounding components, especially the frame and linkage. - Recheck Mounting Torque
After installing the shock, double-check all bolts for proper torque. It’s crucial that these are tight but not over-torqued to avoid damaging the shock or bike frame.
Adjustment of the Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock
Adjusting the Bomber Air Trunnion is key to optimizing its performance. The shock offers multiple settings to adjust the compression, rebound, and air pressure to suit your riding style and terrain.
Air Pressure Adjustment
- Set the SAG
The Bomber Air Trunnion shock utilizes air pressure to control suspension firmness. Start by setting the sag, which is the amount the shock compresses under your weight. For most riders, setting the sag to around 30-35% of the shock’s total travel is ideal. To adjust the air pressure, use a shock pump and check the pressure regularly to maintain the desired sag. - Fine-Tune Air Pressure
If you find the shock too soft or too firm, adjust the air pressure up or down in small increments. Riding on trails will help you fine-tune the air pressure for optimal performance.
Compression and Rebound Damping
- Compression Adjustment
The Bomber Air Trunnion allows you to adjust the compression damping to control how the shock reacts to impacts. Turn the compression dial to adjust how stiff or soft the shock feels. If you’re riding on rough terrain, a stiffer setting can provide more support, while a softer setting offers better comfort on smoother trails. - Rebound Adjustment
The rebound dial controls the speed at which the shock returns to its original position after compression. Adjust the rebound for a smoother, more controlled ride. Too fast of a rebound may cause the rear end of the bike to bounce, while too slow a rebound could lead to sluggish performance.
Maintenance of the Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock
Proper maintenance ensures your Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock continues to perform at its best, extending its lifespan and maintaining consistent performance over time.
Regular Cleaning and Inspection
- Clean the Shock Regularly
After each ride, clean the shock with a mild detergent and a soft cloth to remove dirt, mud, and debris. Use a brush for harder-to-reach spots. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the shock’s seals. - Inspect for Leaks or Wear
Inspect the shock for any visible signs of oil leaks, which could indicate seal wear. Check the mounting hardware for any signs of looseness or wear. It’s important to inspect the shock at regular intervals to ensure it’s in good working condition.
Air Chamber Maintenance
- Check for Air Pressure Loss
If you notice a drop in performance or sag, check for air pressure loss. Use a shock pump to restore the pressure to the appropriate level. - Rebuild the Air Chamber
Depending on riding conditions, the air chamber may require servicing. Marzocchi recommends performing an air spring service every 50 hours of riding. This process involves removing the air sleeve, inspecting the seals, and lubricating the air spring to ensure smooth operation.
Seal and Oil Maintenance
- Replace the Seals
The seals on the Bomber Air Trunnion shock can wear out over time, leading to leakage or decreased performance. If you notice a decrease in damping performance, it may be time to replace the seals. Marzocchi recommends seal replacement every 100-150 hours of riding. - Oil Change
For the best performance, it’s recommended to change the shock oil annually or after 100 hours of riding. This helps to maintain smooth operation and prevent any internal friction from affecting performance.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with the Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock
Despite being a high-performance shock, the Bomber Air Trunnion may encounter a few common issues that riders should be aware of. Here’s how to troubleshoot some of these problems.
Air Pressure Loss
- Problem: If the shock loses air pressure rapidly, it could be due to a damaged seal or valve.
- Solution: Check the shock for any visible signs of damage or leaks around the valve area. If no obvious issues are found, consider having the seals replaced and the shock serviced by a professional.
Poor Damping Performance
- Problem: If the shock feels harsh or overly soft, the damping might be too stiff or too loose.
- Solution: Adjust the compression and rebound dials to find the optimal setting. If adjustments don’t help, the shock may need a service to check the internal components and oil.
Unstable Rebound
- Problem: If the shock is rebounding too fast or too slow, it could be due to improper rebound settings or air pressure.
- Solution: Adjust the rebound dial and check the air pressure to ensure they are set correctly for your riding style and terrain.
Customization and Optimization for Better Performance
The Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock offers a wide range of customization options to suit various riding styles. By adjusting air pressure, compression, and rebound settings, riders can tailor the shock to their preferences, enhancing comfort and performance on different terrains.
Fine-Tuning for Specific Riding Styles
- Enduro and Downhill Riding
For aggressive riding styles like enduro or downhill, a stiffer compression setting with a controlled rebound can provide better support during heavy impacts. Increasing the air pressure will also prevent bottoming out. - Cross-Country and Trail Riding
For lighter riding styles like cross-country, a softer compression setting combined with a faster rebound may enhance comfort and efficiency. A lower air pressure can also improve traction without compromising too much on support.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock is designed to work seamlessly with most modern mountain bike drivetrains. However, it is essential to verify compatibility with the other suspension components, such as the fork, and drivetrain parts like the cassette and chain. Compatibility can influence how well the suspension performs, particularly when it comes to overall bike geometry and suspension balance.
Considerations for Optimal Compatibility
- Suspension Pairing
When pairing the Bomber Air Trunnion with a front fork, ensure that both components have similar travel and damping characteristics for balanced performance. This creates a cohesive suspension feel across the bike. - Frame Compatibility
The Bomber Air Trunnion is designed to work with frames that support trunnion mounts. Ensure that the frame’s rear triangle and linkage are compatible with the shock’s dimensions to avoid compatibility issues.
Conclusion
The Marzocchi Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock is a powerful, versatile [paid link], and reliable option for mountain bikers seeking top-tier rear suspension performance. With its user-friendly installation process, extensive adjustability, and routine maintenance requirements, this shock is designed to meet the demands of all riding styles. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual rider, the Bomber Air Trunnion can be fine-tuned to provide optimal performance for your specific needs.