Maintaining your Marzocchi Bomber Air Trunnion rear shock is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Regular care will help you avoid major issues down the road, keep your bike handling smoothly, and prolong the lifespan of your suspension components. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the necessary steps for installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization of your Bomber Air Trunnion rear shock.
Tools Required
- 8mm Allen wrench [paid link]
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- 10mm socket wrench
- Small flathead screwdriver
- Shock pump (compatible with Marzocchi air shocks)
- Isopropyl alcohol (for cleaning)
- Suspension grease
- Threadlocker (blue medium strength)
- 2.5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
- Small brush or microfiber cloth
- Shock oil (recommended by Marzocchi)
Installation of the Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock
1. Remove the Existing Rear Shock
Before installing the Bomber Air Trunnion rear shock, remove the existing shock from the bike’s rear triangle. Use the appropriate wrenches to undo the bolts on both ends of the shock. Be cautious while handling the shock to avoid damaging any surrounding components.
2. Prepare the Trunnion Mount
The Bomber Air Trunnion features a trunnion mount, which is different from traditional eyelet mounts. Ensure the mount on your bike’s frame is compatible with this system. Clean both the shock mount and the trunnion interface with a clean cloth and isopropyl alcohol to remove any dirt, grease, or debris.
3. Install the Rear Shock
Align the Bomber Air Trunnion shock with the frame’s trunnion mount. Slide the shock into place and ensure that it fits snugly without any misalignment. Secure the shock with the mounting bolts, tightening them according to the manufacturer’s torque specifications. It’s essential to use threadlocker on these bolts to prevent loosening during use.
4. Reattach the Shock Linkage
If your rear shock is part of a suspension system with a linkage, make sure to properly reattach any linkage components. Tighten all bolts securely to prevent any play or noise during rides.
5. Check Air Pressure
Before using the shock, use a shock pump to set the air pressure to the correct level. The Bomber Air Trunnion’s air spring system requires appropriate pressure depending on your weight and riding style. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific air pressure recommendations.
6. Test the Shock
Once installed, cycle through the shock to ensure smooth movement. Compress and extend the shock several times to check for any resistance or abnormal sounds. If there are issues, recheck the installation for proper alignment and tightness.
Adjusting the Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock
1. Rebound and Compression Adjustment
The Bomber Air Trunnion offers separate rebound and compression adjustments. Begin by adjusting the compression setting to suit your terrain. For rough trails, increase compression damping to prevent bottoming out. For smoother terrain, reduce compression for a more plush ride.
Next, adjust the rebound damping to control how quickly the shock returns after compression. Slower rebound can help in technical, rough sections, while a faster rebound is beneficial for smoother trails.
2. Air Spring Pressure Adjustment
Use the shock pump to fine-tune the air spring pressure. Ensure that the shock pressure matches your weight and riding preferences. If you find the shock too firm or too soft, adjust the pressure in small increments until the shock feels balanced and responsive.
3. Fine-Tuning for Performance
After your initial ride with the Bomber Air Trunnion, adjust settings based on the feedback you receive from the bike. Pay attention to any feeling of harshness or bottoming out and tweak the compression and air pressure accordingly for improved performance.
Maintenance and Servicing
1. Clean Regularly
Cleaning your Bomber Air Trunnion shock is essential for its smooth operation. After each ride, use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the shock body and remove any dirt, mud, or debris. Make sure the air valve and compression knobs are free from dirt to prevent contamination from entering the shock.
2. Inspect for Leaks
Check the shock for any signs of oil leaks or damage to the air seals. If you notice any leaking fluid, it’s time to inspect the internal seals and potentially replace them. Regularly inspecting the shock will help identify potential issues before they become serious problems.
3. Rebuild and Service Intervals
Marzocchi recommends performing a full service on your Bomber Air Trunnion shock every 50 hours of riding or once a year, whichever comes first. This involves disassembling the shock, cleaning internal components, replacing seals, and refilling with fresh shock oil.
4. Replace Seals and Oil
Over time, the seals on your shock may wear out, leading to air loss or oil leaks. During a full rebuild, replace the seals as needed and ensure that the shock oil is replaced with the recommended type. Regular servicing will prevent internal wear and tear and maintain optimal performance.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. Shock Bottoming Out
If you experience frequent bottoming out, check the air pressure to ensure it’s correctly set for your weight and riding style. If the air pressure is fine, consider adjusting the compression settings for more support.
2. Excessive Rebound
If the shock rebounds too quickly, try increasing the rebound damping. This will slow down the shock’s return after compression and provide more control, especially on rough terrain.
3. Loss of Air Pressure
If you notice that the shock loses air pressure quickly, inspect the valve for any signs of damage. If the valve is intact, check the air seals for wear and replace them if necessary.
Customization and Optimization
1. Tuning for Specific Terrain
The Bomber Air Trunnion is designed to be highly customizable for different types of terrain. For downhill riding, you may want to increase the compression damping and air pressure to prevent bottoming out on large hits. For cross-country riding, reducing the compression damping and lowering the air pressure can help with comfort and efficiency.
2. Upgrade to Better Performance
For riders seeking a more responsive and durable shock, consider upgrading to higher-grade shock oils or custom tuning kits. These upgrades can improve the performance of the Bomber Air Trunnion, providing better damping control and enhanced comfort on challenging trails.
Comparing the Bomber Air Trunnion to Other Rear Shocks
When compared to other rear shocks in the same category, the Bomber Air Trunnion stands out for its durability and user-friendly design. Many riders find it offers a good balance between comfort and performance, especially on more aggressive trails. It’s also a more affordable option for those who want high-quality performance without the premium price tag of other high-end shocks.
However, riders looking for ultra-fine-tuned control and customizability may prefer other models with more detailed settings or coil shocks. The Bomber Air Trunnion strikes a middle ground, making it an excellent choice for the majority of riders who prioritize reliability and ease of use.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Bomber Air Trunnion rear shock is designed to work with a wide range of mountain bike frames and drivetrain systems. However, it’s important to check your bike’s rear triangle for proper clearance and compatibility with the shock’s trunnion mount. Make sure the shock aligns properly with the frame before installation.
Also, ensure that the rear shock works with your bike’s suspension linkage. If you have a bike with an advanced suspension system, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines to confirm compatibility.
By following the steps and maintenance tips outlined in this guide, you’ll ensure that your Marzocchi Bomber Air Trunnion rear shock continues to perform at its best for years to come.