DIY Maintenance Guide for Your Bomber Air Rear Shock

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The Bomber Air [paid link] rear shock from Marzocchi is a reliable and durable component that can handle the demands of aggressive mountain biking. Like any high-performance bike component, it requires proper maintenance to ensure it continues to function at its best. This guide will walk you through the steps to install, adjust, and maintain your Bomber Air [paid link] rear shock, troubleshoot common issues, and optimize it for improved performance.

Installation of the Bomber Air Rear Shock

Proper installation of the Bomber Air rear shock is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Follow these steps carefully to install the shock correctly:

  1. Remove the Old Shock
    • Use a 5mm Allen wrench [paid link] to remove the bolts securing the old shock to the frame and swingarm.
    • Carefully remove the shock, making sure to keep any washers or spacers that may be needed for the new shock.
  2. Prepare the Bomber Air Shock
    • Before installing the new shock, check that the shock is set to the correct pressure according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
    • Make sure the air chamber is properly inflated to the recommended PSI for your weight and riding style.
  3. Install the Shock
    • Align the Bomber Air shock with the mounting points on the frame and swingarm.
    • Insert the mounting hardware (bushings or bearings) into the shock’s eyelets, ensuring they are properly seated.
    • Secure the shock in place using the appropriate bolts, making sure they are tightened to the specified torque (usually between 6-8Nm).
  4. Double-Check Installation
    • Ensure the shock is properly aligned and there is no play in the mounts.
    • Recheck all bolts and fasteners to ensure they are securely tightened.

Adjustment of the Bomber Air Rear Shock

To get the best performance from your Bomber Air rear shock, you’ll need to adjust its settings based on your riding style, terrain, and weight. The Bomber Air features adjustments for air pressure, rebound, and compression damping.

Air Pressure Adjustment

  1. Determine Correct Air Pressure
    • Use a shock pump to adjust the air pressure. The correct PSI for your rider weight is typically listed in the owner’s manual. For aggressive riders or heavy impacts, increase the air pressure slightly, and for lighter riders, decrease it for a more supple feel.
  2. Set the Sag
    • To set the sag, sit on the bike and measure how much the shock compresses. The typical sag range for a rear shock is around 25-30% of its total travel. Adjust the air pressure as necessary to achieve the desired sag.

Rebound Adjustment

  1. Locate the Rebound Damping Knob
    • The rebound knob on the Bomber Air rear shock is located at the bottom of the shock. Turning it clockwise slows the rebound, and turning it counterclockwise speeds it up.
  2. Fine-Tuning Rebound
    • Start by setting the rebound to a neutral position (usually halfway between full clockwise and counterclockwise).
    • From there, adjust based on your preferences. A slower rebound is best for smoother terrain, while a faster rebound is better for aggressive, rough riding.

Compression Adjustment

  1. Adjust High-Speed and Low-Speed Compression
    • The Bomber Air shock features separate controls for high-speed and low-speed compression. Low-speed compression controls the shock’s reaction to slow, big hits like landings, while high-speed compression affects how the shock behaves during rapid impacts.
    • Start by adjusting the low-speed compression for a plush feel. Increase the high-speed compression if you experience excessive bottoming out or harshness on fast hits.
  2. Test Settings
    • Ride the bike on a familiar trail to test the adjustments. Fine-tune the compression settings until you achieve the desired feel and performance.

Maintenance of the Bomber Air Rear Shock

Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your Bomber Air rear shock continues to perform reliably. Below are the recommended maintenance steps:

Cleaning

  1. Clean the Shock Regularly
    • After each ride, wipe down the shock with a damp cloth to remove dirt, mud, and grime. Make sure the shock body is free of debris, especially around the seals.
    • Avoid using high-pressure washers, as they can damage the seals and internal components.

Lubrication

  1. Lubricate the Shock Seals
    • Apply a light coat of silicone-based lubricant to the shock’s seals every few rides, especially after riding in wet or muddy conditions. This helps maintain seal integrity and prevents premature wear.

Air Chamber Maintenance

  1. Check Air Pressure Regularly
    • Over time, the air pressure in your shock can drop due to small leaks or changes in temperature. Check the pressure before each ride to ensure it’s within the recommended range.
  2. Replenish the Air Cartridge
    • If the shock feels less responsive or bottoms out more easily, it may be time to service the air cartridge. Refer to the manufacturer’s guide for instructions on how to access and replace the air seals or air chamber.

Full Service (Every 100-150 Hours of Riding)

  1. Disassemble the Shock
    • For a complete overhaul, carefully remove the shock from the frame and disassemble it following the service guide provided by Marzocchi.
    • Inspect the internal components for wear and replace any seals or bushings as necessary.
  2. Reassemble and Re-Install
    • After servicing, reassemble the shock and reinstall it following the installation instructions mentioned earlier.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with regular maintenance, issues can sometimes arise with the Bomber Air rear shock. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

Lack of Rebound

  • Possible Cause: The rebound setting may be too slow, or the damper could be low on oil.
  • Solution: Adjust the rebound damping and check the oil level if necessary. If the problem persists, consider a full service.

Bottoming Out Too Easily

  • Possible Cause: Insufficient air pressure or too soft compression settings.
  • Solution: Increase the air pressure or adjust the compression settings for a firmer response.

Noisy Shock

  • Possible Cause: Dirt or debris in the shock, or dry seals.
  • Solution: Clean the shock and lubricate the seals. If the noise persists, inspect the shock for any damaged parts.

Customization and Optimization

The Bomber Air rear shock offers a high level of customization to suit your riding style and needs. Here are a few tips for further optimizing your shock:

  1. Experiment with Air Pressure: Adjusting the air pressure allows you to tailor the shock to your weight and riding style. If you’re a lighter rider, try lowering the air pressure for better comfort and control on technical trails.
  2. Adjust Compression for Terrain: For smoother trails, decrease compression damping for a plush feel. On rougher terrain, increase compression for better control and to avoid bottoming out.
  3. Upgrade the Bushings: Consider upgrading the shock bushings to higher-end materials for smoother performance and reduced friction. This can improve the overall feel of the rear shock.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Bomber Air rear shock is designed to be compatible with most modern mountain bike frames that use standard shock mounts. When pairing it with other drivetrain components, ensure that the shock’s size and travel are suitable for your frame. Additionally, ensure that the shock’s adjustment range aligns with your riding style and the needs of your terrain.

Conclusion

Maintaining and optimizing the Bomber Air rear shock from Marzocchi is a relatively straightforward process that can greatly improve your riding experience. Regular maintenance, careful adjustments, and troubleshooting common issues will help keep your shock functioning at its best. By following the guidelines in this DIY maintenance guide, you can extend the life of your shock and enjoy a smoother, more controlled ride.