The Marzocchi Bomber Air Trunnion [paid link] Rear Shock is designed to deliver superior performance, comfort, and adjustability for mountain bike riders seeking the perfect ride. With its advanced air spring technology and a focus on durability, it significantly enhances the overall ride quality. This guide will delve into the installation, adjustment, maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization of the Bomber Air Trunnion [paid link], helping you get the most out of your rear shock.
Tools Required
- 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
- Torque wrench [paid link] (up to 10Nm)
- Suspension fluid (Marzocchi recommended)
- Cleaning brush or cloth
- Small screwdriver (for air valve adjustments)
- Shock pump
- 8mm wrench
Installation of the Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock
Installing the Bomber Air [paid link] Trunnion Rear Shock requires careful attention to detail to ensure optimal performance. Follow these steps for a precise and effective installation.
- Remove the Old Shock
- Using a 5mm Allen wrench [paid link], remove the bolts holding the existing rear shock in place.
- Ensure that the mounting hardware is properly detached and that the shock is safely removed from the frame.
- Prepare the Bomber Air [paid link] Trunnion Rear Shock
- Inspect the shock for any signs of damage before installation.
- Ensure the air can is properly inflated before proceeding (typically set to your body weight or specific riding style).
- Mount the Shock to the Frame
- Position the Bomber Air Trunnion shock into the rear triangle of your bike.
- Line up the mounting holes on both ends of the shock with the corresponding holes on the frame.
- Insert the bolts and tighten them using a 5mm Allen wrench. Ensure the bolts are torqued to the recommended value (usually around 8–10Nm).
- Adjust the Trunnion Mount
- The Bomber Air Trunnion utilizes a trunnion mount that offers improved rigidity and reduces stress on the shock. Make sure it is securely installed and oriented properly before tightening the bolts completely.
- Check for Proper Functioning
- Compress the rear shock manually to check for smooth movement. Ensure there are no unusual noises, and the shock is seated properly.
Adjustment for Optimal Performance
The Bomber Air Trunnion offers several adjustable settings that help optimize ride quality based on your personal preferences and riding conditions. Here are the key adjustments to focus on:
- Air Pressure
- Using a shock pump, adjust the air pressure in the positive and negative air chambers. For most riders, air pressure is typically set between 175–250 PSI depending on weight, riding style, and terrain. Adjust the pressure to ensure proper sag, which is generally between 25–30% of total shock travel.
- Rebound Damping
- The Bomber Air Trunnion features external rebound damping control. Adjust the rebound knob to achieve the desired rate of return of the shock. Set it slower if you want a more controlled ride or faster if you prefer more responsiveness.
- Compression Damping
- The shock’s compression settings allow you to modify how much resistance the shock provides during compression. For a plush ride on rough trails, set the compression damping to a lower setting. For more support during aggressive riding, increase the compression damping.
- Bottom-Out Control
- The Bomber Air Trunnion has a bottom-out bumper that prevents the shock from bottoming out during extreme compression. Adjust this feature based on your riding style to prevent damage and improve control.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
Regular maintenance of your Bomber Air Trunnion is key to ensuring long-term performance and reliability. Follow these steps for periodic maintenance:
- Clean the Shock
- After each ride, use a clean cloth or brush to remove dirt and debris from the shock. Focus on the seals and the area around the mounting points.
- Check for Leaks
- Periodically check the shock for air leaks. If you notice a drop in air pressure or oil leakage, it may be time to replace seals or re-grease the shock.
- Service Intervals
- Perform a full service every 50–100 hours of ride time, or as recommended by Marzocchi. This includes checking and replacing the suspension fluid, inspecting the air seals, and cleaning the internal components.
- Lubrication
- Apply a small amount of lubrication to the shock’s mounting hardware and bushings. This prevents wear and ensures smooth movement.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
While the Bomber Air Trunnion is a high-performance rear shock, you may encounter a few common issues. Below are potential problems and their solutions:
- Excessive Sag
- Cause: The air pressure may be too low for your weight and riding style.
- Solution: Increase the air pressure in both the positive and negative chambers, then check the sag again.
- Bottoming Out
- Cause: Insufficient compression damping or too little air pressure.
- Solution: Adjust the compression damping to a firmer setting and increase air pressure if necessary. You can also fine-tune the bottom-out control for more support.
- Harsh Ride
- Cause: The rebound setting may be too fast, or the air pressure may be too high.
- Solution: Slow down the rebound and adjust the air pressure for better plushness and comfort.
- Noisy Shock
- Cause: Dry seals or a lack of lubrication.
- Solution: Clean the shock and apply lubrication to the seals and bushings.
Customization and Optimization for Better Performance
To further optimize your ride, you can customize the Bomber Air Trunnion to suit your specific needs and preferences:
- Tuning for Riding Style
- For downhill and aggressive riding, increase compression damping for better control and reduce air pressure slightly for a more responsive feel.
- For cross-country or endurance riding, reduce compression damping for a more plush ride and adjust the air pressure to maintain a consistent level of sag.
- Add Volume Spacers
- The Bomber Air Trunnion allows for the addition of volume spacers in the air spring. Adding spacers increases the firmness of the shock toward the end of its travel, preventing bottoming out and offering more support during aggressive riding.
- Adjusting for Terrain
- If you ride on particularly rough or technical terrain, increase compression damping to provide better support and reduce the chances of the shock bottoming out. For smoother trails, reduce compression for a more compliant ride.
Comparison with Similar Models
When compared to other rear shocks, such as the Fox Float X2 or the RockShox Super Deluxe, the Bomber Air Trunnion excels in durability and performance for riders who demand reliability in rough conditions. Its larger air volume offers a smoother ride, and the Trunnion mount provides greater stiffness than traditional eyelet mounts, making it ideal for aggressive riders or those on rough terrain.
The Fox Float X2, while offering a more extensive range of tuning options, can be more complex to set up for beginners. On the other hand, the Bomber Air Trunnion is a straightforward option, with less complexity and an easier setup process, making it more accessible without sacrificing performance.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Bomber Air Trunnion is compatible with most modern mountain bike frames that utilize a trunnion mount for rear shocks. However, it is important to check your bike’s specifications for compatibility, particularly with regard to shock length, stroke, and mount type. The shock’s advanced air spring and damping system are compatible with a wide range of drivetrain components, ensuring smooth performance regardless of the other parts in your bike setup.
Ensure that your bike’s frame can accommodate the specific measurements of the Bomber Air Trunnion shock, as incorrect sizing can negatively impact both performance and durability.
The Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock stands as a top-tier option for riders seeking a high-performance, customizable rear shock. Its blend of adjustability, ease of maintenance, and compatibility with modern mountain bike frames make it an excellent choice for those looking to improve ride quality and control on rugged [paid link] trails.