Setting up the proper sag for your RockShox Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock is essential for ensuring optimal performance and comfort. Sag is the amount the shock compresses under your weight and is a crucial factor in tuning the suspension to your riding style and terrain. This guide will walk you through the process of setting sag, adjusting the shock for different conditions, and troubleshooting common setup issues. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just getting started, these steps will help you achieve the ideal suspension setup for your bike.
Understanding Sag and Its Importance
Sag refers to the amount your shock compresses when you are in riding position, which directly affects the suspension’s performance. If the sag is too high, the shock will be too soft, leading to bottoming out and poor control. If it’s too low, the shock will be too stiff, reducing traction and comfort. Getting the right sag ensures that the shock responds appropriately to impacts, providing both comfort and performance on the trail.
For the RockShox Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate, the recommended sag range is typically between 25% and 30% of the total shock stroke. This range can be adjusted depending on your riding style, bike geometry, and terrain type.
Tools Required
To set up the sag for your RockShox Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate, you will need the following tools:
- Shock pump with accurate pressure gauge
- Ruler or tape measure
- Suspension grease (optional, for maintenance)
- Clean cloth (for wiping down the shock)
- Torque wrench [paid link] (for specific shock adjustments)
Step-by-Step Sag Setup for the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate
1. Prepare the Bike and Shock
Before starting the sag setup, ensure that your bike is on a stable surface. It is best to do this with the bike on a flat ground, using a workstand if available. Remove any extra weight from the bike (such as panniers or water bottles) to ensure that the sag measurement reflects only your body weight.
2. Check the Current Setup
Before adjusting the sag, you will need to assess the shock’s current pressure setting. The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate comes with a coil spring that is chosen based on your weight and riding style. If you are unsure whether the current coil is the right one for your weight, refer to RockShox’s spring rate recommendations.
3. Set the Correct Air Pressure
Using the shock pump, ensure that the shock pressure is set correctly for your weight and riding style. The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate’s air spring pressure should be adjusted so that, when you’re in a riding position, the shock compresses to the appropriate sag percentage. For example, if your bike has a 60mm stroke, you should aim for approximately 15-18mm of sag (25-30%).
4. Position Yourself on the Bike
To properly measure sag, you need to be in riding position. Put on all your riding gear, including shoes, helmet, and any other equipment you typically use while riding. Once you’re in position, stand up and place your weight on the pedals while keeping your hands on the handlebars. This ensures that your body weight is fully transferred to the shock.
5. Measure the Sag
Using a ruler or tape measure, measure the distance from the shock’s eyelet (the mounting point at the top) to the shock’s body at the point where the shock stanchion meets the lower part of the shock. This is your starting measurement (known as “preload”).
Next, carefully measure the shock again with you in the riding position. The amount the shock has compressed (or “sagged”) from the original measurement should be within the recommended range of 25-30%. If the sag is outside of this range, you will need to adjust the air pressure or coil spring rate.
6. Adjust the Sag
If the sag is too high, reduce the air pressure or increase the preload to stiffen the shock. Conversely, if the sag is too low, increase the air pressure or reduce the preload to soften the shock. The goal is to achieve the recommended sag of 25-30% of the shock’s stroke.
7. Fine-Tune the Settings
After adjusting the sag, it’s important to fine-tune the other suspension settings, such as rebound and compression. The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate offers external adjustments for both, which you can tweak for better control and comfort on different types of terrain. Begin by setting the rebound to a moderate speed and adjust the compression to suit your riding preferences.
Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues
1. Shock Bottoming Out
If you notice that the shock bottoms out frequently, it may indicate that the sag is too high, or the spring rate is too soft. To address this, reduce the sag by adding more air pressure or switching to a stiffer coil spring. You may also want to adjust the compression setting to prevent the shock from bottoming out during impacts.
2. Lack of Traction
If you feel that your bike is not providing enough traction, especially on rough or technical terrain, the sag may be too low. Try reducing the air pressure or adjusting the spring rate to allow more compression. This will help the shock absorb impacts more effectively, keeping the tires in contact with the ground.
3. Excessive Rebound or “Bouncing”
If the shock feels “bouncy” or rebounds too quickly after compression, it could be that the rebound damping is too light. Adjust the rebound setting to slow it down and allow for better control. Too much rebound can also lead to discomfort, so finding the right setting is crucial.
Customization and Optimization for Better Performance
Adjusting Rebound and Compression Damping
Once you’ve set the correct sag, it’s important to fine-tune the rebound and compression settings for optimal performance. The RockShox Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate features separate adjustments for both compression and rebound, giving you precise control over how the shock reacts to different trail conditions.
- Compression Damping: Adjusting the compression helps control how the shock reacts to small and large impacts. A higher compression setting will make the shock stiffer, while a lower setting will allow for more travel and a smoother ride on rough terrain.
- Rebound Damping: The rebound adjustment controls how quickly the shock returns to its extended position after compressing. A slower rebound is useful for better control on downhill trails, while a faster rebound may be more suitable for smoother terrain.
Weight-Specific Spring Rate
For best results, ensure that you have the correct spring rate for your weight. RockShox offers a variety of coil springs that can be swapped out for the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate to better match your specific requirements. This will help you get the most out of your suspension setup, providing the right balance of support and comfort.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The RockShox Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate is compatible with a wide range of mountain bikes and drivetrains. However, it’s essential to check the shock’s specifications, such as its stroke length and mounting hardware, to ensure it matches your bike’s frame. Additionally, consider the frame’s geometry when setting up the sag, as this can affect how the suspension behaves during rides.
If you have any doubts about compatibility, consult your bike’s manufacturer guidelines or contact a suspension technician. Proper compatibility ensures that the shock operates as designed and provides you with the best performance and durability.