When it comes to high-performance rear shocks for mountain biking, the RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T stands out as one of the most sought-after models in the industry. Known for its reliability, adjustability, and superior performance, it’s a favorite choice among serious riders. In this article, we’ll break down how the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T compares to other rear shocks on the market, exploring its key features, strengths, and performance characteristics.
Key Features of the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T
The Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T is engineered to deliver exceptional performance across a wide range of riding conditions. Its standout features make it an excellent choice for those looking to optimize their ride.
RC2T Damper System
The RC2T (Rebound, Compression, and Two-Step) damper offers a unique dual compression adjustment system, allowing riders to fine-tune their shock to both trail and personal preferences. This system consists of both high-speed and low-speed compression adjustments, giving riders the ability to customize their shock’s responsiveness based on terrain and riding style.
DebonAir Spring
The DebonAir spring used in the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T ensures a smooth and plush ride. It provides increased air volume, which allows for better small bump compliance and a more comfortable ride over rough terrain. The increased air volume also helps in keeping the shock performance consistent throughout the ride.
Adjustability
One of the most notable features of the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T is its wide range of adjustability. The shock offers settings for rebound, low-speed compression, and high-speed compression. This level of fine-tuning capability allows riders to dial in their suspension to match their exact riding style and trail conditions.
Updated Hardware and Bearings
The Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T includes updated hardware and bearings, which offer better durability and smoother performance compared to previous models. These advancements reduce friction and wear, improving overall ride quality and extending the lifespan of the shock.
Installation and Setup of the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T
Installing the RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T rear shock requires basic mechanical knowledge. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure proper installation and avoid damage to your bike or shock.
- Remove the old shock – Use the appropriate tools to remove the old rear shock from your frame.
- Check shock compatibility – Verify that the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T is compatible with your bike’s frame. Check mounting hardware and ensure that the shock’s eye-to-eye measurement and stroke length are compatible.
- Install the shock – Mount the new shock onto the frame, ensuring that the eyelets align properly. Tighten the bolts to the specified torque values.
- Set sag – Adjust the shock’s air pressure to achieve the correct sag for your weight and riding style. The sag is crucial for ensuring optimal suspension performance.
- Tune damping settings – Adjust the low-speed and high-speed compression and rebound settings according to your riding preferences and the terrain you’ll be riding on.
Once installed, the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T provides a responsive and adjustable platform that can handle a variety of terrain types and conditions.
Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues
While the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T is designed for durability and performance, there are a few common setup issues that may arise. Addressing these problems early on can help ensure you get the most out of your shock.
Shock Not Providing Enough Rebound
If you notice that your shock isn’t rebounding quickly enough, it could be due to improper rebound damping settings. Increase the rebound setting to allow the shock to extend faster after compression. It’s important to find a balance between too fast and too slow to maintain control during aggressive descents.
Bottoming Out
If the shock is bottoming out during hard impacts, check the air pressure and adjust it according to your weight and riding style. Increasing the air pressure can provide additional support for bigger hits. You can also adjust the compression settings to make the shock firmer and prevent bottoming out.
Unresponsive Compression
If the shock feels unresponsive or too soft during compression, ensure that the low-speed and high-speed compression adjustments are correctly set. You may need to add more compression to firm up the shock for more aggressive riding styles.
Comparison with Other High-Performance Rear Shocks
When comparing the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T to other high-end rear shocks, there are a few models that stand out in terms of features and performance.
FOX Float X2
The FOX Float X2 is another high-performance shock that competes with the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T. While both shocks feature high and low-speed compression adjustments, the Float X2 offers a more extensive range of adjustments and a more progressive spring curve, making it a popular choice among riders seeking maximum customization.
In terms of ride feel, the Float X2 is known for offering a more plush and forgiving ride, making it suitable for riders who focus on comfort over aggressive performance. However, the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T’s RC2T damper provides a more precise and refined feel, making it ideal for riders who prioritize performance and adjustability on more technical terrain.
DVO Jade X
The DVO Jade X is another competitor to the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T, and it has garnered a reputation for its consistent performance in aggressive riding situations. The Jade X offers a simple yet effective damping system, but it lacks the dual compression adjustability of the RC2T system. This makes the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T more versatile for riders looking for fine-tuned control over both high-speed and low-speed compression.
RockShox Super Deluxe Coil
For riders who prefer coil shocks, the Super Deluxe Coil is a natural competitor to the Ultimate RC2T. The coil option offers better small-bump sensitivity and a more consistent feel on rough trails. However, the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T’s air-spring design provides greater tunability and is generally lighter, which may appeal to racers or riders who are conscious of weight.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T rear shock is designed to integrate seamlessly with a wide range of drivetrain components. However, compatibility can vary depending on your bike’s frame and other suspension elements.
It’s essential to check whether your frame is designed for a rear shock with the specific eye-to-eye length and stroke measurement of the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T. Additionally, consider the suspension design of your bike; some bikes may be optimized for air shocks, while others may perform better with coil shocks.
If you’re upgrading from a previous shock, ensure that the mounting hardware is compatible with the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T. You may need to adjust your other components, such as the shock mount or linkage, to ensure smooth compatibility.
Customization and Optimization for Better Performance
To get the most out of the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T, consider further customizing its performance. Depending on your riding style and terrain, you may want to adjust the following:
- Spring rate: Adjusting the air pressure to fit your weight ensures that you achieve the correct sag and performance.
- Compression settings: Fine-tuning the high and low-speed compression settings allows you to tailor the shock to different types of terrain, whether you’re climbing, descending, or tackling technical sections.
- Rebound damping: Finding the optimal rebound setting is crucial to maintaining control and maximizing traction. A slower rebound can offer better control on rough terrain, while a faster rebound can be useful for smoother trails.
The adjustability of the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T allows riders to continuously refine their settings as they become more familiar with their bike’s performance characteristics.
Conclusion
The RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T rear shock is a top-tier component that delivers superior adjustability, comfort, and performance. When compared to similar models like the FOX Float X2 and DVO Jade X, the RC2T shines in its refined damping system and customizable ride feel. Its ability to fine-tune compression and rebound makes it an excellent choice for riders who demand precision and versatility in their suspension. Whether you’re upgrading your bike or fine-tuning your suspension for better performance, the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T provides everything you need to enhance your riding experience.