The ElevenSix 2024 [paid link] rear shock from Push Industries is a high-performance component designed for riders seeking precision, adjustability, and ultimate control. This shock features advanced technology to enhance your bike’s suspension, giving you a smooth and responsive ride. However, to get the most from your ElevenSix 2024 [paid link], it’s crucial to understand its setup, adjustments, maintenance, and how to troubleshoot common issues.
Tools Required
- Shock pump
- 8mm wrench
- 10mm wrench
- Torque wrench [paid link] (up to 60 Nm)
- 5mm hex wrench
- Clean cloth
- Suspension grease
- Ruler or caliper for measuring sag
- Allen key set
- Shock oil (specific to the ElevenSix model)
- Tuning kit (if available)
Installation of the ElevenSix 2024 Rear Shock
Installing the ElevenSix 2024 rear shock requires precise care to ensure the shock functions correctly. Follow these steps to install your rear shock:
- Remove the Old Shock: Start by removing your current shock. Use an 8mm wrench to detach the bolts securing the shock to the frame. Be careful to retain all washers and bolts, as these will be reused.
- Prepare the New Shock: Before mounting the new ElevenSix 2024 shock, apply a thin layer of suspension grease on the mounting points to ensure a secure, smooth fit. This helps prevent seizing and ensures ease of removal in the future.
- Install the ElevenSix Shock: Position the ElevenSix 2024 shock in its mount, aligning the eyelets with the frame’s mounting points. Secure the bolts using a torque wrench [paid link]. Tighten the bolts to the recommended torque specification (typically 30-40 Nm, but check the shock manual for exact details).
- Attach the Air Canister (if applicable): If your model has a separate air canister, follow the instructions to attach it properly. Ensure all connections are tight to prevent air leaks.
- Final Check: Double-check all bolts and connections to ensure the shock is mounted securely.
Adjusting the ElevenSix 2024 Rear Shock
The ElevenSix 2024 shock comes with a wide array of tuning options that allow for fine-tuning according to your riding style, terrain, and weight. Follow these steps to achieve the ideal setup:
1. Set the Sag
Setting the correct sag is critical for optimal performance. Sag determines how much the shock compresses under your body weight, which influences the bike’s handling and comfort.
- Measure Sag: Put your bike in a stable position, either on a work stand or with assistance from a friend. With your riding gear on, sit on the bike in a neutral riding position. Measure the distance from the center of the axle to a specific point on the shock (usually marked as a sag line or O-ring).
- Adjust Pressure: Use the shock pump to adjust the air pressure in the shock. The ElevenSix 2024 is designed for easy air pressure adjustments, so fine-tune the pressure based on the manufacturer’s recommended sag percentage, typically between 25-30% of the shock’s total travel.
2. Compression and Rebound Settings
The ElevenSix 2024 has compression and rebound adjustments that allow you to control the shock’s response.
- Compression: Adjust the low-speed and high-speed compression settings to control how the shock reacts to different terrain. If you’re riding on technical trails, a firmer compression setting might be necessary to prevent bottoming out. For smoother trails, you may want to soften the compression for a more comfortable ride.
- Rebound: The rebound controls how quickly the shock returns to its original position after compressing. A slower rebound is useful for absorbing big impacts, while a faster rebound can be useful for smoother trails. Adjust it according to the terrain you will be riding.
Maintaining the ElevenSix 2024 Rear Shock
To maintain your ElevenSix 2024 shock in top condition, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some key maintenance steps to follow:
- Clean the Shock Regularly: After each ride, wipe the shock down with a clean, dry cloth to remove dirt and debris. Pay special attention to the shock’s body and seals to prevent dirt from damaging the suspension system.
- Inspect the Seals: The shock’s seals are crucial for preventing dirt and moisture from entering the shock body. Inspect them regularly for signs of wear or damage. If the seals appear damaged, it’s important to replace them immediately.
- Service the Shock: Push Industries recommends a full service every 100-150 hours of riding or once a year, whichever comes first. This service includes a complete disassembly of the shock, cleaning, replacing the oil, and reassembling it.
- Check for Leaks: After each ride, inspect the shock for any signs of air or oil leaks. If you notice any leaks, it’s essential to service the shock immediately to avoid further damage.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
While the ElevenSix 2024 shock is designed for easy setup and use, issues may arise. Below are common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
1. Bottoming Out
If your shock is bottoming out too often, it could be a sign that the air pressure is too low, or the compression settings are too soft.
- Solution: Increase the air pressure to raise the sag percentage within the recommended range. If the shock continues to bottom out, adjust the compression settings to increase the damping effect.
2. Harsh Ride
If the ride feels too stiff or harsh, it may be due to too much air pressure or too much rebound damping.
- Solution: Reduce the air pressure slightly to decrease the stiffness. Additionally, decrease the rebound setting to ensure the shock isn’t returning too quickly after compression.
3. Excessive Noises
Noise from the shock can be caused by dirt in the seals or a lack of lubrication.
- Solution: Clean the shock and lubricate the seals. If the noise persists, inspect the seals for wear and replace them if necessary.
Customizing and Optimizing the ElevenSix 2024 Rear Shock
To get the most out of your ElevenSix 2024, customization and optimization are key.
- Shock Tuning Kit: Consider investing in a shock tuning kit from Push Industries. This kit offers additional shims and damping options to fine-tune the shock for specific conditions, such as aggressive downhill riding or cross-country racing.
- Adjust the Air Volume: The ElevenSix 2024 features an air spring that can be tuned for different ride characteristics. By adjusting the air volume, you can change how progressive or linear the shock feels, which can help with climbing efficiency or big-hit performance.
- Custom Suspension Settings: Push Industries offers custom suspension tuning services to help optimize your ElevenSix 2024 for your specific riding style, weight, and bike setup. This can be a good option if you’re looking for the best performance without going through the trial-and-error process yourself.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The ElevenSix 2024 is compatible with a wide range of mountain bike frames and drivetrains. However, it’s important to check compatibility before purchasing to ensure a perfect fit.
- Mounting Points: Ensure your frame has the appropriate mounting points for the shock. The ElevenSix uses a standard eyelet or trunnion mount, but always verify the frame specifications before installation.
- Shock Travel: The shock travel should be appropriate for your frame’s geometry. For example, if your bike is designed for 150mm of rear wheel travel, ensure that the ElevenSix 2024 has the appropriate stroke length to match.
Comparison with Similar Models
When considering the ElevenSix 2024 rear shock, it’s important to compare it with other high-end shocks on the market. While other brands may offer similar features, the ElevenSix 2024 stands out in terms of customizability, fine-tuning options, and the high level of performance it provides.
- Fox Float X2: The Fox Float X2 is a competitor to the ElevenSix, offering excellent performance and adjustability. However, the ElevenSix 2024 is often preferred for its precise tuning options and a more responsive ride feel.
- RockShox Super Deluxe Coil: The Super Deluxe Coil offers a more straightforward, coil-sprung option compared to the air-sprung ElevenSix 2024. While the Super Deluxe may offer a more plush ride, the ElevenSix offers greater adjustability for riders looking to fine-tune their suspension for specific riding styles and conditions.