The Super Deluxe Select+ rear shock from RockShox has gained recognition in the mountain biking community for its performance and versatility. This shock is designed to provide a premium ride with adjustable features that cater to riders seeking both comfort and control. In this guide, we will examine the Super Deluxe Select+ rear shock, discussing its installation, maintenance, and adjustment, as well as comparing it to similar models on the market. This comparison will help riders understand how it stacks up against the competition and whether it is the right choice for their bike setup.
Installation of the RockShox Super Deluxe Select+ Rear Shock
Installing the Super Deluxe Select+ rear shock is a straightforward process, but it requires precision to ensure optimal performance. Below is a step-by-step guide to ensure a proper and secure installation:
Tools Required
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
- 8mm wrench
- Isopropyl alcohol or degreaser
- Bike stand [paid link]
Installation Steps
- Prepare the Shock and Frame: Before installing the shock, clean the mounting areas on both the shock and the bike frame using isopropyl alcohol or degreaser. This ensures that there is no dirt or grease that could affect the installation process.
- Position the Shock: Align the shock with the mounting hardware on the frame. Most mountain bike frames have two mounting positions: upper and lower. Check the shock orientation carefully to match the frame’s mounting points.
- Insert the Hardware: Insert the shock hardware (bushings or reducers) into the shock eyelets. Make sure they fit snugly and are the correct size for your frame.
- Install the Shock: Place the shock into the frame mounts. Insert the bolts through the eyelets and tighten them by hand.
- Torque the Bolts: Using a torque wrench [paid link], tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque settings (usually around 180-220 in-lbs). Ensure both bolts are evenly torqued to avoid misalignment.
- Test the Shock: Before riding, check that the shock is installed securely and functions properly. You should be able to compress the shock smoothly without any binding.
Adjusting the Super Deluxe Select+ Rear Shock
The Super Deluxe Select+ is equipped with a range of adjustable features that allow you to fine-tune your ride for maximum comfort and performance. These adjustments include rebound, compression, and air spring pressure. Below is a breakdown of how to adjust each setting:
Rebound Adjustment
The rebound adjustment controls how quickly the shock returns to its original position after compression. A slower rebound setting helps to maintain better control on rough terrain, while a faster rebound setting allows for quicker recovery.
- Turn the rebound knob clockwise to slow the rebound or counterclockwise to speed it up.
- Recommended starting point: Set the rebound to the midpoint and adjust based on your riding conditions.
Compression Adjustment
Compression adjustment affects how the shock responds to impacts. There are usually two main settings for the Super Deluxe Select+: low-speed and high-speed compression. Low-speed compression controls the shock’s response to small impacts, while high-speed compression deals with bigger hits.
- Low-Speed Compression: Turn the knob clockwise to increase compression (firmer) or counterclockwise to decrease it (softer).
- High-Speed Compression: This is often adjusted with a separate knob, typically located near the rebound adjustment.
Air Spring Pressure
The air spring pressure is crucial for tuning the shock’s sag, which affects how much travel is used during riding.
- Increase air pressure for firmer suspension, which is ideal for heavier riders or those who prefer a stiffer feel.
- Decrease air pressure for softer suspension, better suited for lighter riders or those looking for more plushness.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
Even with a high-quality shock like the Super Deluxe Select+, setup issues may arise, especially during the initial installation or tuning process. Below are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:
Lack of Travel or Sag
If your shock feels too firm and is not using its full travel, this could indicate an issue with the air spring pressure.
- Solution: Check the air pressure and reduce it if needed. Riders should aim for approximately 25-30% sag, depending on their weight and riding style.
No Rebound or Too Slow Rebound
If the shock doesn’t rebound properly or feels too slow, there could be an issue with the rebound adjustment or oil levels.
- Solution: Recheck the rebound settings, turning the knob to adjust. If the issue persists, it may be time for a maintenance check to inspect the oil levels or seals.
Bottoming Out
If you experience bottoming out frequently, it could be a sign that your compression settings are too soft.
- Solution: Increase the high-speed compression to help absorb larger impacts and prevent the shock from bottoming out too easily.
Customization and Optimization for Better Performance
The Super Deluxe Select+ rear shock offers a wide range of tuning options to optimize your suspension for different riding conditions. Customizing your shock based on terrain and riding style can significantly enhance your bike’s performance.
Fine-Tuning for Different Terrains
- For technical, rocky trails: Increase high-speed compression and adjust rebound to suit the more aggressive riding style.
- For smoother trails or cross-country rides: Use a lower air spring pressure and softer compression to allow for a more responsive ride.
Adjusting for Rider Weight and Style
- Heavier riders: Increase the air spring pressure to avoid too much sag, ensuring optimal support during aggressive riding.
- Lighter riders: Lower the air pressure to create a more supple feel and improve comfort during long rides.
Comparing the Super Deluxe Select+ to the Competition
When considering rear shocks for mountain biking, the Super Deluxe Select+ competes with several other premium models. To help you make an informed choice, we compare it to two popular alternatives: the Fox DHX2 and the Cane Creek DBair IL.
RockShox Super Deluxe Select+ vs. Fox DHX2
- Performance: The Super Deluxe Select+ provides excellent overall performance, with adjustable rebound, high-speed and low-speed compression. However, the Fox DHX2 is often favored for its superior high-speed compression adjustment and finer tuning capabilities.
- Weight: The Super Deluxe Select+ is lighter than the Fox DHX2, making it a more attractive option for riders focused on weight savings.
- Price: The Super Deluxe Select+ tends to be more affordable than the Fox DHX2, offering a solid balance of performance and cost-effectiveness.
RockShox Super Deluxe Select+ vs. Cane Creek DBair IL
- Customization: While both shocks offer similar levels of customization, the Cane Creek DBair IL has a more complex, multi-step compression adjustment system that allows for more precise fine-tuning.
- Ride Quality: The Cane Creek DBair IL is known for delivering a plush, buttery-smooth ride, especially on more demanding trails. The Super Deluxe Select+ provides a slightly firmer ride, but it excels in providing a more consistent feel on moderate terrain.
- Value: The Super Deluxe Select+ stands out for its price-to-performance ratio, offering excellent value compared to the Cane Creek DBair IL, which comes at a higher price point.
Understanding Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Super Deluxe Select+ rear shock is designed to work seamlessly with a variety of mountain bike frames, but compatibility with other drivetrain components is crucial to achieving optimal suspension performance. When setting up the shock, it is important to consider your bike’s frame design and the type of suspension system it supports.
- Shock Mounting: The Super Deluxe Select+ typically uses a standard shock mount, making it compatible with most modern mountain bike frames. However, it’s essential to confirm that your frame supports the shock’s eyelet size and mounting configuration.
- Drivetrain System: The shock functions independently of the drivetrain but must be paired with compatible components for smooth riding. If you’re using a high-end drivetrain like Shimano XTR or SRAM XX1, pairing it with a suspension like the Super Deluxe Select+ ensures high-quality performance across all bike systems.
- Suspension Linkage: Ensure that the suspension linkage on your bike works well with the shock’s geometry. Some bike frames feature unique suspension designs that require specific shock lengths or travel.
Conclusion
The RockShox Super Deluxe Select+ rear shock stands out as a versatile, high-performance suspension option for serious mountain bikers. Its adjustable features, lightweight design, and solid value make it a top contender among rear shocks. When compared to other models like the Fox DHX2 and Cane Creek DBair IL, the Super Deluxe Select+ holds its own in terms of customization, performance, and affordability. Whether you’re tackling technical trails or smoother cross-country rides, this shock offers an excellent balance of comfort and control, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of riders.