The ElevenSix Trunnion [paid link] from Push Industries is a high-performance rear shock that has garnered significant attention in the mountain biking community. Known for its robust design, customization options, and performance-enhancing features, it stands out as a top-tier choice for serious riders seeking exceptional ride quality and durability. This article delves deep into the installation, adjustment, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the ElevenSix Trunnion [paid link], providing a comprehensive guide for mountain bike enthusiasts.

Installation of the ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock

Installing the ElevenSix Trunnion rear shock is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires attention to detail to ensure optimal performance. The shock is designed for mountain bikes with trunnion mounts, which are common on modern frames.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide:

1. Prepare the bike: Lift the bike securely on a work stand to ensure stable positioning. Remove the existing rear shock, if applicable, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Remove the old shock (if applicable): Loosen the bolts securing the old shock to the trunnion mounts and remove the shock.
3. Prepare the new ElevenSix Trunnion shock: Ensure the new shock is configured with the correct spring rate and rebound settings suited for your weight and riding style.
4. Install the new shock: Position the ElevenSix Trunnion shock in the trunnion mounts and align it with the mounting holes on the frame.
5. Secure the shock: Insert and tighten the mounting bolts, ensuring they are torqued to the specifications provided in the user manual. Over-tightening can damage the shock or frame, while under-tightening can cause the shock to loosen during use.
6. Check for clearance: Once installed, ensure that the shock has adequate clearance for full compression and rebound without interference from surrounding components.
7. Test the installation: Compress the shock a few times by hand to check for smooth movement and proper installation.

Adjustment of the ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock

The ElevenSix Trunnion rear shock offers several adjustment features that allow riders to fine-tune their suspension to meet their specific needs. These adjustments are crucial for optimizing ride quality, improving control, and enhancing overall performance.

Key Adjustments:

• Rebound Damping: This adjusts the speed at which the shock returns to its extended position after compression. For more aggressive riding, a faster rebound may be preferred, while slower rebound settings are ideal for technical, rocky terrain.
• Compression Damping: The shock’s compression damping controls how quickly the shock compresses under load. The ElevenSix features adjustable compression settings to allow for a plush ride on smooth trails or a firmer setup for more aggressive riding.
• Spring Rate: The shock comes with a coil spring that can be swapped to suit different rider weights and riding styles. Adjusting the spring rate is essential for maintaining proper suspension sag and maximizing the shock’s effectiveness.
• High and Low-Speed Compression: For riders who want precise control over suspension performance, the shock’s ability to adjust high and low-speed compression is a game changer. Low-speed compression helps manage small impacts, while high-speed compression controls larger hits.

Adjustment Tips:

• For optimal performance, it’s important to set the shock’s sag correctly. This involves adjusting the spring rate so that the shock compresses about 25-30% under the rider’s weight when they’re on the bike.
• Experiment with compression and rebound settings based on trail conditions. Softer settings may be more comfortable on downhill runs, while firmer settings will provide better control for climbs or technical sections.

Maintenance of the ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock

Regular maintenance is vital for the longevity and performance of the ElevenSix Trunnion rear shock. Proper care ensures that the shock functions smoothly, maintains optimal damping performance, and remains free from dirt and debris.

Maintenance Schedule:

• Initial Service: Push Industries recommends servicing the ElevenSix Trunnion every 150-200 hours of riding or at least once a year, depending on use.
• Clean the shock: After every ride, wipe down the shock with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt, mud, and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the shock’s finish or seals.
• Inspect for leaks: Regularly check for signs of oil or air leakage around the seals. If leakage is found, it’s time to service the shock.
• Lubricate the shock: Occasionally, apply a light coating of lubricant to the shock’s stanchions and seals to maintain smooth movement and reduce wear.

Professional Servicing:

While basic cleaning and lubrication can be done at home, more advanced servicing should be left to professionals. This includes tasks such as replacing seals, oil, and internal components. Push Industries offers service kits and detailed guides to help technicians perform these services properly.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

Despite its high-quality construction, the ElevenSix Trunnion rear shock may encounter a few issues during installation or use. These problems can often be resolved with a few simple troubleshooting steps.

Common Issues:

1. Shock Doesn’t Compress Properly: If the shock is not compressing or is too stiff, it may indicate an issue with the spring rate or compression damping settings. Adjust the compression settings and check if the spring rate matches your weight and riding style.
2. Excessive Rebound or Slow Return: A slow return can be caused by too much rebound damping. Try reducing the rebound damping setting to speed up the shock’s return. If the shock returns too quickly, increase the rebound damping for a smoother ride.
3. Oil Leaks: If oil is leaking from the shock, this is typically due to worn-out seals. A professional service may be required to replace the seals and re-oil the shock.
4. Sag Issues: If the shock doesn’t sag properly (too much or too little), it could be due to an incorrect spring rate. Ensure the correct spring rate is installed for your rider weight and riding style.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

The ElevenSix Trunnion rear shock is highly customizable, offering several ways to optimize your suspension for better performance on different types of terrain.

Customization Options:

• Spring Swaps: As mentioned earlier, changing the coil spring can drastically alter the shock’s performance. Riders can choose from different spring rates to achieve the perfect balance between comfort and control.
• Custom Tuning: Push Industries allows riders to perform custom tuning to suit their specific needs. Whether it’s adjusting the compression for aggressive trail riding or tuning the rebound for smooth, fast descents, the flexibility of the ElevenSix ensures that riders can tailor their shock to the most demanding conditions.
• Damper Adjustments: Fine-tuning both the high-speed and low-speed compression can significantly improve the performance of the shock for riders seeking advanced customization. Whether you’re climbing or descending, adjusting the shock’s compression helps keep the ride smooth and stable.

Comparison with Similar Models

When considering a high-performance rear shock like the ElevenSix Trunnion, it’s important to understand how it compares with other top-tier models.

ElevenSix Trunnion vs. Fox Float X2

• Weight: The ElevenSix Trunnion is slightly heavier than the Fox Float X2, which is more lightweight and suitable for cross-country riders. However, the ElevenSix offers superior durability and support for heavier riders and aggressive trail conditions.
• Customization: The ElevenSix stands out for its extensive customization options, including multiple spring rates and damping settings. The Fox Float X2, while offering good adjustment features, doesn’t have as much range for fine-tuning.
• Price: The ElevenSix Trunnion is more expensive than the Fox Float X2, making it a better choice for riders seeking premium performance and who are willing to invest in top-tier suspension.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The ElevenSix Trunnion rear shock is designed to be compatible with most modern mountain bike frames equipped with trunnion mounts. However, it is important to check compatibility with your bike’s other components, especially the drivetrain and suspension setup.

Considerations for Compatibility:

• Trunnion Mounts: Ensure that your bike frame is equipped with trunnion mounts before purchasing the shock. This is a specific mount style that may not be compatible with older frames that use traditional eyelet mounts.
• Spring Rate Matching: The spring rate should be matched to the rider’s weight, riding style, and the frame’s geometry to ensure optimal performance. Make sure that the spring rate works well with the other suspension components for seamless performance.
• Suspension Setup: Consider how the ElevenSix rear shock integrates with your front suspension. For a balanced setup, both the front and rear suspensions should have similar performance characteristics (e.g., compression and rebound settings).