The RockShox Deluxe Select+ rear shock is engineered to provide riders with a smooth and responsive ride across varied terrain. As one of the leading models in RockShox’s lineup, it offers a blend of performance, adjustability, and durability, making it ideal for cyclists looking to elevate their bike’s suspension performance. This guide will explore the installation, adjustment, maintenance, troubleshooting, and customization options for the Deluxe Select+, providing you with all the information needed to optimize your ride quality.

Installation of the RockShox Deluxe Select+ Rear Shock

Installing the Deluxe Select+ rear shock is a straightforward process if you follow the correct steps. This rear shock uses a standard eyelet mount, which is compatible with many modern mountain bikes. Here’s how to install it properly:

1. Prepare Your Bike: Ensure your bike is in a stable position, such as on a repair stand, to prevent it from tipping over during the installation.
2. Remove the Old Shock: If you are replacing an existing shock, use a wrench to remove the bolts securing it to the frame and remove the shock.
3. Align the New Shock: Position the Deluxe Select+ rear shock into the mount, ensuring the eyelet mount matches the frame’s corresponding mount point.
4. Secure the Shock: Use the appropriate bolts and torque them to the manufacturer’s specified settings. Over-tightening may damage the frame or shock, while under-tightening could result in loose components during rides.
5. Check the Positioning: Ensure the shock is aligned properly, and the mounting hardware is correctly installed without interference with other components.
6. Final Check: Before riding, make sure that the shock’s rebound and compression settings are set to neutral. This allows for a baseline adjustment before any fine-tuning.

Adjusting the Deluxe Select+ Rear Shock

Once the Deluxe Select+ is installed, the next step is adjusting it to suit your riding style, terrain, and weight. This shock offers a high level of customization, allowing you to fine-tune your suspension for optimal performance.

Rebound Adjustment

The rebound adjustment knob on the Deluxe Select+ controls how quickly the shock returns to its neutral position after compression. This feature is important for maintaining control and stability during rough descents and fast pedaling.

• Faster Rebound (Counterclockwise): If you find that the rear end of the bike feels sluggish and the shock doesn’t return quickly enough, adjust the rebound to a faster setting. This is typically used for lighter riders or smoother trails.
• Slower Rebound (Clockwise): Slowing down the rebound can improve control when riding on rough, rocky, or technical terrain. It is often favored by heavier riders or when descending steep hills.

Compression Adjustment

The compression adjustment controls how much the shock resists compression during impacts. This setting helps in absorbing shocks and vibrations, depending on the terrain.

• Firm Compression: For aggressive riders who prefer a stiff suspension to prevent bottoming out, a firmer compression setting is ideal. This is useful for cross-country riding or when tackling smoother trails.
• Soft Compression: If you want a more plush and forgiving ride, especially on downhill trails or rugged terrain, a softer compression setting will help the shock absorb larger impacts.

Air Pressure

The Deluxe Select+ utilizes air springs, which require proper air pressure to maintain the correct sag and performance. The recommended air pressure is determined based on your body weight and riding style.

• Check the Manufacturer’s Guide: RockShox provides a chart for recommended air pressures based on rider weight. Ensure that the shock is set within the appropriate range to maintain proper sag (the amount the shock compresses under the rider’s weight).
• Fine-Tune the Pressure: Once the shock is installed, adjust the air pressure to achieve about 25-30% sag. This will ensure the shock has enough travel to absorb impacts without bottoming out.

Maintenance of the Deluxe Select+ Rear Shock

Regular maintenance of your Deluxe Select+ rear shock is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. Here are the key maintenance tasks:

Cleaning the Shock

Regularly cleaning the shock helps remove dirt and debris that can affect its performance. Use a soft cloth or brush to wipe down the shock’s exterior. Avoid using abrasive materials that could scratch the surface.

• After Every Ride: Check for dirt or grime buildup on the shock body and clean it with water and mild soap. Dry it thoroughly to prevent corrosion.

Servicing the Shock

Over time, the shock’s internal components, such as seals and oils, may degrade. Regular servicing is necessary to keep it performing at its best.

• Rebushing and Rebuilding: Every 100-150 hours of riding, it’s recommended to have the shock serviced. This may include replacing the seals, lubricating the shock’s internals, and checking for any wear on the bushings.
• Air Pressure Check: Ensure the air spring’s pressure remains within the recommended range. Over time, air pressure can fluctuate, so it’s important to regularly check and adjust as needed.

Checking for Leaks

Inspect the shock for any signs of oil leaks around the seals. Oil leaks can indicate that the shock needs a rebuild or that the seals have worn out. If any leaks are present, replace the seals immediately to avoid further damage.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with the Deluxe Select+ Rear Shock

While the Deluxe Select+ is designed for durability and performance, some common issues may arise during its use. Here’s how to troubleshoot these problems:

Shock Bottoming Out

If you notice that the shock bottoms out frequently, the issue may be due to inadequate air pressure or incorrect compression settings.

• Solution: Increase the air pressure to achieve the recommended sag or adjust the compression settings to be firmer. If these adjustments do not resolve the issue, check for oil leakage or damaged seals.

Excessive Rebound or Slow Return

If the shock is not returning quickly enough, or if it’s too fast, the rebound setting may need to be adjusted.

• Solution: Adjust the rebound dial as needed. If the problem persists, ensure the shock is clean and free from debris that could interfere with its movement.

Loss of Air Pressure

A sudden decrease in air pressure can affect the shock’s performance and sag. This is usually due to air leakage.

• Solution: Inspect the shock for any visible damage, particularly around the air valve. If no obvious issue is found, have the shock serviced by a professional to replace worn seals or check for hidden leaks.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

The Deluxe Select+ is highly customizable, allowing you to optimize the shock’s performance based on your riding style and terrain. To achieve the best performance:

• Match the Shock to Your Riding Style: If you are a cross-country rider, focus on firmer compression and faster rebound for efficient pedaling. If you frequently ride downhill, opt for softer compression and slower rebound to absorb larger hits.
• Experiment with Air Pressure: Slightly adjusting air pressure can significantly affect how the shock feels. Testing different pressures based on your weight and riding conditions can help fine-tune the shock’s performance.
• Use the Right Lubricants: Using the correct suspension fluids and lubricants will ensure smooth operation and prevent wear on internal components. Stick with recommended products from RockShox or other reputable suspension brands.

Comparison with Similar Models

While the RockShox Deluxe Select+ offers excellent value and performance, it’s helpful to understand how it compares with other shocks in the RockShox lineup, such as the Super Deluxe or Monarch Plus. The main differences include:

• Super Deluxe: The Super Deluxe offers higher-end adjustability and is generally more suitable for aggressive riders, particularly those tackling technical and rocky trails. It offers additional adjustments for compression and rebound, making it more customizable than the Deluxe Select+.
• Monarch Plus: The Monarch Plus is often considered a more budget-friendly option, but it still offers good performance for riders who prefer a balanced ride. However, the Deluxe Select+ outperforms it in terms of smoothness and responsiveness, especially on challenging terrain.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Deluxe Select+ is designed to be compatible with a variety of modern mountain bike drivetrains. It works well with both single and double chainring setups, providing consistent performance across various bike configurations. However, it’s important to verify that your bike frame’s suspension linkage and geometry are compatible with the shock’s mounting specifications.

It is also recommended to check if your bike’s rear triangle has the necessary clearance for the shock’s stroke length. Using the wrong stroke length or mounting configuration can significantly affect the shock’s performance.