The RockShox Super Deluxe Select+ rear shock is designed to provide an optimal riding experience, offering riders a blend of plushness, control, and customization for a wide range of trail conditions. This article provides a detailed, expert-level guide on the installation, adjustment, and maintenance of the Super Deluxe Select+ rear shock. It also covers troubleshooting common issues, offers tips for customization and optimization, and explores how it compares to similar models.
Installation of the Super Deluxe Select+ Rear Shock
Installing the Super Deluxe Select+ rear shock requires careful attention to detail to ensure that the shock performs at its best. Below are the steps to install the rear shock on your bike:
Tools Required:
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- 8mm hex wrench
- 10mm socket
- Shock pump
- T25 driver
- 2mm Allen key
- Small clean rag
Step-by-Step Installation:
- Remove the Old Shock:
- Use the 8mm hex wrench to remove the bolts securing the old rear shock to the frame.
- Keep the bolts and washers, as they may be reused for the new shock installation.
- Gently remove the shock from the frame.
- Install the New Shock:
- Align the Super Deluxe Select+ with the shock mounts on the frame.
- Insert the bolts through the shock mount eyelets and tighten them using the torque wrench [paid link] to the manufacturer’s specified torque value (usually around 200-250 Nm, but check your specific bike’s manual).
- Ensure that the shock is positioned straight and that the bolts are tightened securely.
- Set the Sag:
- Attach a shock pump to the air valve on the Super Deluxe Select+.
- Inflate the shock to the recommended air pressure, which is determined by your body weight and riding style (RockShox provides a recommended air pressure chart for easy reference).
- Check the sag by sitting on the bike and ensuring that the shock compresses by approximately 25-30% of its total travel.
- Check for Proper Alignment and Clearance:
- Once installed, check the alignment of the shock. Make sure there’s no rubbing against the frame or other components.
- Ensure the shock is clear of any moving parts and that it operates without interference.
Adjustment and Customization for Performance
The Super Deluxe Select+ rear shock offers a range of adjustments that can significantly enhance your ride quality. These adjustments allow for fine-tuning the shock to match your riding style, terrain, and personal preferences.
Compression and Rebound Damping Adjustments:
The Super Deluxe Select+ features adjustable compression and rebound damping. These adjustments enable the rider to dial in the shock’s performance for different conditions:
- Compression Damping:
- The compression damping adjusts how much resistance the shock offers when it compresses. It is typically set with a low-speed compression (LSC) knob and a high-speed compression (HSC) knob.
- For smoother terrain, reduce the compression damping for more plushness and comfort.
- For rougher trails with bigger hits, increase the compression to improve control and prevent bottoming out.
- Rebound Damping:
- The rebound adjustment controls the speed at which the shock returns to its fully extended position after compression. Too fast, and the shock can feel bouncy; too slow, and it may feel sluggish.
- Adjust the rebound to suit your preference: faster rebound for more responsive performance and slower rebound for greater stability.
Air Pressure and Volume Spacers:
Adjusting the air pressure in the shock is essential for optimizing the Super Deluxe Select+. As mentioned earlier, your weight and riding style play a role in determining the correct air pressure. However, volume spacers can further fine-tune the shock’s feel:
- Volume Spacers: Adding or removing volume spacers adjusts the shock’s progressive spring rate. More spacers make the shock more progressive, which can be beneficial for riders who tackle rough, technical terrain. Fewer spacers provide a more linear feel, which is ideal for smoother trails.
Fine-Tuning for Specific Riding Styles:
- For enduro riding, you may prefer a stiffer setup with more compression damping to help with larger hits and more control.
- For cross-country riding, a softer setup with lower compression and more rebound damping can provide a smoother, more efficient ride.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
Despite its advanced features, users may encounter some issues with the Super Deluxe Select+ rear shock. Below are common problems and their solutions:
- Excessive Sag:
- Cause: The shock may not have enough air pressure.
- Solution: Re-check the air pressure using a shock pump and adjust according to your body weight and riding style.
- Bottoming Out:
- Cause: The compression damping may be too low, or the air pressure might be too low for the rider’s weight.
- Solution: Increase the compression damping or add more air pressure to prevent bottoming out.
- Bouncy Ride:
- Cause: The rebound damping may be too fast.
- Solution: Slow down the rebound by adjusting the rebound knob to a slower setting.
- Noise or Rubbing:
- Cause: The shock may not be installed correctly, or there might be clearance issues with the frame.
- Solution: Check the shock alignment, ensure proper mounting, and verify there is enough clearance for the shock during its travel.
Comparison with Similar Models
The Super Deluxe Select+ competes with several other high-performance rear shocks in the market. When compared to similar models like the Fox DPX2 and the RockShox Monarch Plus, the Super Deluxe Select+ stands out in several areas.
- Damping Performance:
- The Super Deluxe Select+ provides a more refined, adjustable damping system with the DebonAir air spring, which offers better small-bump sensitivity and mid-stroke support than the Monarch Plus. It is often considered more versatile in its performance across various types of terrain.
- Compared to the Fox DPX2, the Super Deluxe Select+ tends to offer a more plush feel while still delivering excellent performance on big hits, making it a more suitable choice for riders who need a balance between comfort and control.
- Weight:
- The Fox DPX2 tends to be slightly lighter than the Super Deluxe Select+, which may be a key consideration for riders focused on weight reduction, such as those racing cross-country.
- However, the slight weight difference is negligible when considering the added performance and comfort of the Super Deluxe Select+.
- Customization:
- The Super Deluxe Select+ offers more customization in terms of air pressure, volume spacers, and damping adjustments. This makes it a better option for riders looking for a highly tuned ride.
- The Fox DPX2, while also customizable, does not offer the same level of fine-tuning and adjustment, making the Super Deluxe Select+ a better choice for those who want to optimize every aspect of their shock.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Super Deluxe Select+ is compatible with a wide range of bikes and drivetrain systems. It is especially suited for modern mountain bikes, as it pairs well with the latest drivetrains, including SRAM and Shimano systems. The rear shock’s mounting standards align with most modern frames, and its adjustability ensures that it works seamlessly with varying suspension designs and frame geometries.
Conclusion
The Super Deluxe Select+ rear shock from RockShox offers an exceptional balance of performance, comfort, and customization, making it an excellent choice for serious mountain bikers. Whether you’re a cross-country rider seeking efficiency and smoothness or an enduro racer needing control and stability, this shock can be adjusted to meet your needs. Proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance will ensure that it enhances your ride quality for seasons to come. By following the provided steps and tips, riders can make the most of the Super Deluxe Select+, ensuring a smoother and more controlled riding experience.