The Marzocchi Bomber Air Trunnion [paid link] Rear Shock is designed to provide exceptional performance, durability, and adjustability for mountain bikers and riders seeking smooth and responsive suspension. Regular preventative maintenance is crucial to ensure that your Bomber Air Trunnion [paid link] continues to perform at its best, preventing costly repairs and ensuring a longer lifespan. This guide will walk you through the essential steps for maintaining the Bomber Air [paid link] Trunnion, including installation, adjustment, troubleshooting, and optimization tips.

Tools Required

• Suspension fluid (specific to Marzocchi Bomber Air [paid link] Trunnion)
• 5mm and 6mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• Shock pump
• Oil syringe or dropper
• Clean cloth or rag
• Compressed air (optional for cleaning)
• O-ring grease
• Safety gloves

Installation of the Bomber Air Trunnion

The installation of the Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock requires careful attention to detail to ensure proper setup and performance. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1. Remove the old shock: Begin by removing the existing shock from the frame. Use a 5mm Allen wrench [paid link] to remove the bolts securing the shock to the frame. Be cautious of the shock’s orientation to ensure you mount the new one in the correct direction.
2. Prepare the Bomber Air Trunnion: Before installation, inspect the shock to ensure it is free from any damage or visible wear. If required, grease the mounting bushings lightly to ensure smooth installation.
3. Mount the shock: Align the shock’s trunnion mount with the corresponding mount on your frame. Secure the upper and lower bolts using a 6mm Allen wrench [paid link], tightening them to the manufacturer’s specified torque value. Be sure the shock is centered within the frame and there is no misalignment.
4. Check the air pressure: Before setting the correct sag, use a shock pump to inflate the Bomber Air Trunnion to the recommended air pressure, based on your weight and riding style.
5. Final inspection: Double-check that all bolts are tight and the shock is properly seated. Ensure that there is no play or movement in the shock once installed.

Adjustment of the Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock

Adjusting your Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock correctly will optimize your riding experience and ensure smooth suspension performance. Here are the key adjustments to make:

Air Pressure

• Initial air pressure: Set the air pressure based on the rider’s weight and riding style. The Bomber Air Trunnion typically provides a range of 100-250 psi for most riders. For accurate sag, use a shock pump to fine-tune the air pressure.
• Sag setting: With the bike fully assembled, sit on the bike in your riding gear. Use a zip tie or O-ring on the shock’s stanchion to measure the sag. Adjust the air pressure until you achieve approximately 25-30% sag for most riders.

Rebound and Compression Damping

• Rebound damping: The Bomber Air Trunnion features adjustable rebound damping to control how quickly the shock returns after compression. Start with the rebound dial set in the middle position, then adjust faster or slower based on your preference and riding terrain.
• Compression damping: The Bomber Air Trunnion offers external compression adjustment. Start with the compression dial set to mid-range and adjust it based on your riding style. For aggressive riders or downhill, stiffer compression is ideal, while for cross-country riders, a softer setting may be preferable.

Preventative Maintenance for Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock

Routine maintenance is essential to ensure optimal performance and extend the lifespan of the Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock. Follow these steps to maintain the shock regularly:

Cleaning and Lubing

1. Cleaning the shock: After each ride, clean the shock by wiping it down with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Avoid using harsh solvents or cleaners, as they can damage the shock’s seals. If necessary, use compressed air to blow off any stubborn dirt from the shock body.
2. Lubricating the shock: Regular lubrication of the shock’s bushings and mounting hardware is essential to prevent wear and ensure smooth movement. Apply a thin layer of O-ring grease to the bushings and mounting hardware. This helps reduce friction and protects against corrosion.

Inspecting for Leaks

Check the shock for any signs of oil leakage, especially around the seals. If you notice any oil residue on the shock body or around the air chamber, it may be time to replace the seals. A leaking shock will lead to decreased performance and potential damage if not addressed promptly.

Air Pressure Check

Check and adjust the air pressure regularly, especially after significant changes in temperature or after heavy use. Incorrect air pressure can lead to poor suspension performance and increased wear on internal components.

Seals and Bushings Maintenance

The Bomber Air Trunnion relies on high-quality seals to prevent dirt, debris, and moisture from entering the shock. Over time, seals can wear out, leading to performance degradation. To maintain the shock, replace the seals and bushings according to the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals. This may vary based on the frequency and intensity of use, but a general guideline is every 50-100 hours of riding.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

While the Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock is designed for durability, there are some common issues that can arise during set-up. Here are a few troubleshooting tips:

Poor Rebound or Compression Performance

• Possible Cause: If the rebound or compression feels off, it could be a sign of incorrect adjustments, low air pressure, or low oil levels.
• Solution: Start by adjusting the rebound and compression dials to the manufacturer’s recommended settings. If performance doesn’t improve, check the air pressure and ensure it matches your weight and riding style. If the issue persists, consider servicing the shock to check for internal oil leakage or damaged components.

Excessive Noise or Creaking

• Possible Cause: Creaking noises are often caused by improper installation or lack of lubrication in the mounting hardware.
• Solution: Remove and reinstall the shock, ensuring that the mounting hardware is torqued correctly. Apply a small amount of O-ring grease to the shock bushings and frame contact points to reduce friction and eliminate creaks.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

The Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock offers several features that allow for customization to suit individual riding preferences. Here’s how you can optimize your shock for the best performance:

Fine-Tuning Rebound and Compression Settings

• Rebound adjustment: If you notice that the rear shock is bouncing too much after hits, increase the rebound damping to slow the return. If the shock feels too stiff and unresponsive, decrease the rebound damping slightly.
• Compression adjustment: Stiffer compression settings are ideal for aggressive riders who prefer a more controlled ride on rough terrain, while more open settings are better for riders who focus on comfort and efficiency on smoother trails.

Matching the Shock with Other Components

For the best performance, ensure that your Bomber Air Trunnion Rear Shock is properly matched with the other components of your bike, such as the fork, tires, and drivetrain. A well-balanced bike will offer superior handling and an improved riding experience.

Comparison with Similar Models

When comparing the Marzocchi Bomber Air Trunnion with other rear shocks, consider the following:

• Fox Float X2: The Fox Float X2 offers more adjustment options and is known for its high-end performance, particularly in aggressive riding. However, the Bomber Air Trunnion offers similar performance at a more affordable price.
• RockShox Super Deluxe: The Super Deluxe is another competitor, providing excellent compression and rebound control. However, the Bomber Air Trunnion stands out for its simple and effective setup, which is easier for riders to fine-tune without extensive experience.

Both the Bomber Air Trunnion and these competing models offer impressive performance, but the Bomber Air Trunnion is a solid option for riders seeking a reliable shock with excellent value.

Understanding Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Bomber Air Trunnion rear shock is compatible with most modern mountain bike frames that use a trunnion mount. Before purchasing, ensure that your frame is compatible with a trunnion-style shock. Additionally, verify that your bike’s suspension system is designed to accommodate the travel range and air pressure of the Bomber Air Trunnion for optimal performance.

For the best setup, pair the shock with a suitable fork that complements the rear suspension’s travel and performance characteristics, ensuring a balanced and responsive ride.