Setting up your RockShox Super Deluxe Coil Select [paid link] rear shock is an essential step to ensure the best performance on the trails. Proper sag setup affects both comfort and handling, allowing your suspension to absorb bumps more effectively and providing optimal control. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of adjusting the sag on your Super Deluxe Coil Select [paid link] shock.
Tools Required
- Shock pump
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Marker or tape
- Pump adapter (if necessary)
- Allen wrenches [paid link]
Understanding Rear Shock Sag
Before diving into the setup, it’s important to understand what sag is. Sag refers to the amount your rear shock compresses under the rider’s weight when the bike is in a neutral position. Getting the right amount of sag is crucial for both performance and comfort, as it ensures that the shock is neither too stiff nor too soft.
For the RockShox Super Deluxe Coil Select, the recommended sag is typically around 25-30% of the shock’s total travel, but this can vary depending on your riding style, weight, and the type of terrain you ride.
Step 1: Set the Shock to the Correct Position
Start by ensuring that your bike is in a stable position. Ideally, you should have the bike on a level surface and the rear wheel slightly elevated, such as on a work stand. This will allow you to observe the shock’s movement without interference from the ground.
Once the bike is stable, adjust the shock’s air pressure using a shock pump. If the shock has an air spring, inflate it according to the rider’s weight. For coil shocks like the Super Deluxe Coil Select, the spring rate is typically pre-determined based on your weight, but you can adjust the preload.
Step 2: Measure the Current Sag
Next, you need to measure the sag. To do this, you’ll need to mark a reference point on the shock shaft. This can be done with a piece of tape or a marker. It is best to measure the position of the shock’s shaft before you ride the bike, ensuring it’s in the fully extended state.
Once you have marked the shock shaft, sit on the bike in your riding position while wearing your full gear. It’s important that you sit in a normal riding posture to ensure an accurate measurement of the sag. You may want someone to hold the bike steady while you sit.
After sitting on the bike, the shock will compress, and the mark you made on the shaft should move. The amount it moves indicates the sag. Measure the distance the mark has moved from its original position.
Step 3: Adjust the Sag
Now that you have measured the sag, you’ll need to adjust it to reach the ideal range of 25-30% of the shock’s travel. If your measurement is too high or too low, adjustments can be made by modifying the preload on the coil spring.
To increase sag (make the shock softer), reduce the preload. This is done by loosening the preload adjuster. To decrease sag (make the shock firmer), increase the preload by tightening the adjuster. You can make small adjustments and re-measure the sag after each change to get it within the desired range.
Keep in mind that the preload on coil shocks like the Super Deluxe Coil Select affects only the initial part of the travel, so making small changes to the preload is a good way to fine-tune the sag without altering the overall performance of the shock too much.
Step 4: Check the Full Travel
Once you’ve adjusted the sag, it’s important to check the full range of motion of the shock. With the shock correctly set to the desired sag, compress it fully and ensure that it doesn’t bottom out or feel too stiff. You can do this by gently pushing down on the rear of the bike while standing next to it.
This step is crucial because it ensures the shock will perform optimally throughout its entire range of motion. A shock that bottoms out too easily will not absorb bigger hits properly, while a shock that feels too stiff may not perform well on smaller bumps or rough terrain.
Step 5: Fine-Tuning for Your Ride
Now that the sag is set, you may want to fine-tune the shock for your riding style and terrain. If you prefer more responsive suspension, you might opt for a lower sag percentage (around 25%). If you’re riding rougher trails or downhill, a higher sag percentage (around 30%) may be beneficial for better absorption of impacts.
Additionally, if you ride with a lot of gear or expect to carry heavy loads, you may need to adjust the sag slightly to compensate for the extra weight.
Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues
Shock Doesn’t Compress Enough
If the shock doesn’t compress when you sit on the bike, or if it feels too stiff, it may indicate that the preload is too high. Loosen the preload adjuster in small increments and check the sag again.
Sag is Too High or Too Low After Adjustment
If you’ve adjusted the preload and the sag is still out of the recommended range, you may need to check the coil spring rate. The spring rate might not be ideal for your weight and riding style. If the sag is too high, a firmer coil might be needed, while if it’s too low, a softer coil may be required.
Shock Bottoming Out
If you find that the shock bottoms out too frequently, consider increasing the compression damping (if adjustable) or adjusting the preload to make the shock stiffer. You may also need to inspect the shock for any signs of wear or damage if this issue persists.
Optimizing Performance for Different Terrain
For riders who frequent aggressive trails, downhill courses, or rough terrain, setting the sag closer to 30% is beneficial, as it allows the shock to compress more easily and absorb bigger hits. On smoother trails or cross-country rides, setting the sag closer to 25% offers a firmer feel, which improves pedaling efficiency.
If you’re experiencing difficulty in certain riding conditions, consider adjusting the rebound damping or compression settings (if applicable) to enhance the shock’s performance further. This is particularly helpful if you find the bike too bouncy or too stiff after adjusting the sag.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock is designed to work seamlessly with most modern mountain bike drivetrains. However, it’s essential to ensure that the shock’s travel and geometry align with your frame. The shock’s size, mounting hardware, and eye-to-eye length must be compatible with your bike’s suspension design for proper installation and function.
Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for your frame and suspension to ensure full compatibility. If unsure, consult with a professional mechanic to confirm that your shock setup is optimal for your bike’s geometry.
Conclusion
Properly setting up the sag on your RockShox Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock is vital for achieving the best performance and comfort on the trail. By following this guide, you can ensure your suspension is tuned to your weight, riding style, and terrain. Regular adjustments and maintenance will help you get the most out of your bike, providing a smoother, more controlled ride on every adventure.