The ElevenSix 2021 [paid link] rear shock from Push Industries is a high-performance shock designed for aggressive riders who want superior suspension and ride quality. Whether you’re racing or riding trails, getting the most out of your ElevenSix shock means dialing in its settings to suit your riding style and terrain. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about installation, adjustment, maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization of the ElevenSix 2021 [paid link] rear shock.

Tools Required

• Shock pump
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• 3mm, 4mm, and 5mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
• Clean rag or cloth
• Isopropyl alcohol (for cleaning)
• Grease (for installation)
• 10mm and 15mm open-end wrenches
• Bicycle stand (optional for ease of work)

Installation of the ElevenSix 2021 Rear Shock

Installing the ElevenSix 2021 rear shock is a straightforward process, but it requires precision to ensure that your shock performs optimally. Follow these steps for correct installation:

1. Remove the old shock: Before installing the ElevenSix, remove your existing rear shock. Use the appropriate tools to undo the mounting bolts and gently slide the shock out of the frame.
2. Clean the shock mounting areas: Use a clean rag to wipe down the shock mounting areas on both the shock and the frame. This ensures that dirt and debris do not interfere with the installation.
3. Grease the shock mounting hardware: Apply a light layer of grease to the shock’s mounting bolts to prevent creaking and to ensure smooth operation.
4. Install the shock: Slide the ElevenSix shock into the frame’s shock mount and secure it using the provided hardware. Tighten the bolts using the appropriate torque specifications, usually between 10-12 Nm.
5. Pump the shock to the recommended pressure: Use a shock pump to inflate the ElevenSix shock to the correct pressure based on your rider weight and suspension setup.

Adjustment and Tuning

The ElevenSix rear shock offers several tunable parameters to help you fine-tune your ride. Adjusting the shock can significantly improve comfort, performance, and control. Focus on these key adjustments:

1. Sag Setting

Setting the correct sag is crucial for proper suspension performance. Sag is the amount the shock compresses under your body weight, and it impacts the overall ride quality.

• How to Adjust Sag: Start by sitting on your bike in full riding gear, then measure how much the shock compresses. The target sag for the ElevenSix rear shock is typically around 25-30% of the total shock travel.
• Adjusting Sag: If the sag is too high, increase the air pressure in the shock. If it’s too low, decrease the air pressure. Fine-tune until you achieve the desired sag percentage.

2. Rebound Damping

Rebound damping controls how quickly the shock returns after compressing. Too fast a rebound can cause instability, while too slow a rebound makes the shock feel “stiff.”

• How to Adjust: Locate the rebound dial on the shock and adjust it according to your preferences. Turn it clockwise to slow the rebound and counterclockwise to speed it up.
• Fine-tuning Rebound: After adjusting the rebound, perform a test ride. You may need to make further adjustments to get a smooth, controlled ride.

3. Compression Damping

Compression damping controls how the shock behaves under compression. The ElevenSix allows for separate high-speed and low-speed compression adjustments. These settings determine how your shock handles larger impacts and more subtle terrain changes.

• Adjusting Low-Speed Compression: This controls the shock’s reaction to small bumps or smooth sections of trail. Turn the low-speed compression knob to make the shock firmer or softer depending on your riding style.
• Adjusting High-Speed Compression: This controls the shock’s response to large hits like drops or big rock gardens. Set it stiffer for better control or softer for increased comfort.
• Test and Tweak: After adjusting, ride on a variety of terrains to find the balance that suits your needs. Small changes to these settings can make a big difference in performance.

4. Lockout Function

If your ElevenSix rear shock comes with a lockout function, it can be beneficial for climbing or when you need to conserve energy. Locking out the shock eliminates suspension movement and provides a more efficient pedaling platform.

• How to Lock Out: To activate the lockout, simply turn the lockout knob to its full position. For a smoother ride, use the lockout sparingly.

Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your ElevenSix 2021 rear shock performing at its best.

1. Regular Cleaning

• How to Clean: After each ride, wipe down the shock and surrounding area with a clean rag. This removes dirt and debris that could cause wear over time.
• Clean the Shock Body: For deeper cleaning, use isopropyl alcohol to clean the shock body. Avoid getting alcohol on the seals.

2. Air Can Service

The air can is one of the most important parts of your shock that needs regular servicing. Push Industries recommends servicing the air can at least once a year or every 50 hours of riding.

• How to Service the Air Can: To service the air can, remove it from the shock body. Clean the components thoroughly, inspect the seals for wear, and replace them if necessary. Apply a small amount of grease to the seals during reassembly.

3. Spring Maintenance

The ElevenSix 2021 uses a coil spring. Over time, the spring may need to be replaced or adjusted for different rider weights.

• How to Adjust the Spring: Coil springs come in various weight ratings. Choose a spring rate that suits your weight and riding style. The spring should allow for around 25-30% sag.
• Replacing the Spring: If the spring has lost its tension or is no longer optimal for your weight, replace it by removing the shock from the bike, removing the spring, and installing a new one.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While the ElevenSix 2021 is a durable and high-performance shock, some issues may arise. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems:

1. Suspension Feeling Too Stiff or Too Soft

• Too Stiff: If the shock feels too stiff, reduce the air pressure, or soften the compression settings. Additionally, check for any buildup of dirt or debris that may be causing resistance.
• Too Soft: If the shock feels too soft and is bottoming out frequently, add more air pressure or increase the compression damping.

2. Rebound Too Fast or Too Slow

• Too Fast: If the rebound is too fast, slow it down by turning the rebound adjuster clockwise.
• Too Slow: If the rebound is too slow, speed it up by turning the rebound adjuster counterclockwise.

3. Noise from the Shock

If you hear a knocking or squeaking sound, it could be due to improper installation, dry seals, or dirt in the shock. Clean the shock thoroughly, check for any loose bolts, and lubricate the seals if necessary.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

Customizing your ElevenSix rear shock can elevate your riding experience. Consider the following tips to optimize performance:

• Fine-Tune Compression Damping: Adjusting both high and low-speed compression can drastically affect how the bike handles on different types of terrain. Experiment with these settings based on your riding style and terrain.
• Use a Shock Pump: Regularly check the air pressure in your shock. Even slight changes in pressure can impact performance, so it’s essential to keep it properly inflated for your weight and riding conditions.
• Consider a Coil Spring Upgrade: If you find that the air spring isn’t giving you the right performance, consider upgrading to a different coil spring. This can improve overall ride quality and performance on rough terrain.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The ElevenSix rear shock is compatible with most modern mountain bike frames and drivetrain systems. However, it’s essential to verify compatibility with your bike frame before installation. Check the following:

• Shock Mounting Standards: Ensure that the shock’s eyelet and stroke length match your bike frame’s requirements.
• Frame Geometry: The ElevenSix is designed to work with a wide range of geometries, but make sure the shock’s travel and setup align with your frame’s design for optimal performance.

By properly tuning, maintaining, and customizing your ElevenSix 2021 rear shock, you’ll achieve better performance, improved comfort, and greater control on any ride.