The Bomber CR Coil [paid link] rear shock from Marzocchi is a robust, high-performance shock designed for downhill and aggressive trail riders. Its coil-spring system offers durability and consistent performance over rough terrain, making it a popular choice among riders seeking a reliable, long-lasting shock. Regular maintenance and care are essential to keep your Bomber CR Coil [paid link] performing at its peak [paid link]. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to properly maintain your shock, troubleshoot common issues, and ensure long-term performance.

Tools Required

• 2.5mm, 3mm, 5mm, and 8mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• Shock pump
• Clean rags
• Isopropyl alcohol (for cleaning)
• Lithium grease (for lubrication)
• Suspension oil (specific to your shock’s requirements)
• Replacement seals (if needed)
• Bearing press [paid link] (if required for linkage removal)
• Plastic scraper

Regular Maintenance and Inspection

Performing routine maintenance on your Bomber CR Coil rear shock will ensure that it functions smoothly and lasts for many years. Here are the key tasks to include in your regular maintenance routine.

Cleaning the Shock

Cleaning your rear shock after every ride is essential to prevent dirt and grime from damaging the internal components. Use a clean rag soaked in isopropyl alcohol to wipe down the shock. Focus on the body and the spring, paying close attention to any areas where dirt might accumulate, like the seals and mounting hardware.

• Clean the shock body, including the reservoir, eyelets, and spring.
• Ensure the shock mount area is free from dirt or any debris that may compromise the shock’s performance.
• Inspect the seals for any visible damage or excessive wear.

Checking the Coil Spring

The coil spring on your Bomber CR Coil shock is designed for heavy-duty performance, but it still requires periodic inspection. Look for any signs of wear, including cracks or chips in the spring. Additionally, check for proper spring preload adjustment. Over-tightening the preload could lead to unnecessary stress on the shock, while too little preload could lead to poor suspension performance.

• Check the coil for any deformation or damage.
• Adjust the preload based on the rider’s weight and suspension preferences.

Checking for Leaks

Inspect the shock’s air sleeve and seals for leaks. Although the Bomber CR Coil uses a coil spring, it still relies on air for certain damping adjustments. Leaks can significantly reduce performance, so if you detect any, it’s time to replace the seals or perform a full rebuild.

• Check the air valve for leaks using soapy water.
• Inspect all seals and O-rings around the reservoir and shock body for any signs of wear or damage.

Full Rebuild

For riders who frequently push their bikes to the limits or those who notice a drop in performance, a full rebuild is essential. Rebuilding your Bomber CR Coil shock involves disassembling the shock, cleaning all components, replacing seals, and replenishing the suspension oil.

Step-by-Step Rebuild Process

1. Remove the Shock from the Bike: Carefully remove the shock from the frame. Ensure all bolts are properly loosened and that the shock is detached from the frame without damaging the linkage or hardware.
2. Disassemble the Shock: Use the appropriate Allen wrenches [paid link] to remove the spring and reservoir cap. Be careful when removing the reservoir cap to avoid damaging the threads.
3. Clean the Components: Use a clean rag and isopropyl alcohol to clean all components of the shock. Ensure there is no dirt or residue left on any parts.
4. Replace the Seals: If the seals are worn or damaged, replace them with the manufacturer-approved replacement seals. This will prevent leaks and maintain the shock’s performance.
5. Add Suspension Oil: Refill the shock with the correct suspension oil, as specified in the Bomber CR Coil manual. Ensure that the oil is added to the correct level, as this impacts both performance and longevity.
6. Reassemble the Shock: Once cleaned and re-lubricated, reassemble the shock by carefully replacing the reservoir cap and coil spring. Make sure all bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings.
7. Reinstall the Shock: After the rebuild, reinstall the shock onto the bike, ensuring that it’s aligned correctly with the frame and securely fastened.

Common Issues During Rebuild

• Sticking Damping: If the damping feels sticky during the rebuild, check for air bubbles trapped in the oil or old oil contamination. Use a proper bleed procedure to resolve this issue.
• Spring Noise: Noise from the spring could be due to inadequate lubrication. Apply a thin layer of lithium grease to the spring before reinstallation to reduce friction and eliminate unwanted noise.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

Despite regular maintenance, issues can arise with the Bomber CR Coil rear shock. Here are some common set-up problems and how to address them.

Sag Setting

The proper sag setting is crucial for maintaining balance and comfort. If you notice that the suspension feels too soft or too firm, check the sag.

• Too soft: This could mean that the coil spring is too light for your weight, or the shock may have too much air pressure in the reservoir.
• Too firm: If the shock feels too stiff, you may have too much preload on the coil spring or too little air in the reservoir.

Bottom-Out

If the shock is bottoming out too often, it could be due to insufficient rebound damping or inadequate spring preload.

• Rebound Damping: Adjust the rebound knob on the shock. If the rebound is too fast, it could cause the shock to bottom out more easily.
• Spring Preload: Increase the preload to prevent excessive compression under heavy impacts.

Inconsistent Feel

Inconsistent damping performance can sometimes be the result of air in the suspension system or dirty oil. If the shock’s damping feels uneven, a full rebuild and bleed of the suspension oil are necessary.

Customization and Optimization

To get the best performance from your Bomber CR Coil rear shock, consider customizing the setup based on your riding style and terrain. Small adjustments can significantly improve your bike’s handling and comfort.

Adjusting Preload

Preload adjustments allow you to fine-tune the suspension for your weight and riding style. If you prefer a stiffer ride, increase the preload on the coil spring. For a smoother, more compliant ride, reduce the preload slightly. Always ensure that the spring’s preload is within the recommended range to prevent damaging the shock.

Fine-Tuning Rebound

The rebound damping adjustment controls how quickly the shock returns to its extended position after compression. A faster rebound can help you handle rough terrain more smoothly, while a slower rebound can be beneficial for larger jumps and aggressive downhill riding.

Compression Damping

The Bomber CR Coil rear shock also offers compression damping adjustments. By altering the compression settings, you can control how the shock reacts to impacts. For rough, technical trails, you may want a higher compression setting to prevent the shock from compressing too easily. On smoother trails, a softer setting can provide better comfort and traction.

Comparing Bomber CR Coil to Other Shocks

While the Bomber CR Coil rear shock is an excellent option for downhill and aggressive riding, it’s helpful to compare it with other similar models to determine if it’s the best fit for your needs.

Marzocchi Bomber CR Coil vs. Fox DHX2 Coil

• Weight: The Fox DHX2 tends to be slightly lighter, making it a better choice for riders who prioritize weight reduction.
• Adjustability: The DHX2 offers more precise adjustment options, such as low-speed compression, which can allow for finer-tuning.
• Price: The Bomber CR Coil is more budget-friendly compared to the Fox DHX2, making it a good option for riders who need a solid shock at a more affordable price.

Marzocchi Bomber CR Coil vs. RockShox Super Deluxe Coil

• Performance: Both shocks perform similarly in aggressive riding conditions, but the Bomber CR Coil is more durable in harsh environments.
• Customization: The RockShox Super Deluxe Coil offers more customization options, such as a wider range of rebound and compression adjustments.
• Price Point: The Bomber CR Coil is generally more affordable, making it a solid choice for riders looking for a no-nonsense shock.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Bomber CR Coil rear shock is designed to be compatible with a wide range of mountain bike frames, but it’s crucial to ensure that the shock is paired with the right components. Check the frame’s specifications for shock length and stroke compatibility. Additionally, pairing the shock with the appropriate linkage system will ensure optimal performance and prevent premature wear on both the shock and the bike frame.

When upgrading other components, such as the drivetrain or the front suspension, ensure that the entire system is balanced to prevent handling issues. For example, pairing a heavy-duty rear shock like the Bomber CR Coil with a lightweight fork could result in handling imbalances.

By following these maintenance, troubleshooting, and customization tips, you can keep your Bomber CR Coil rear shock in excellent condition and ensure a smoother, more enjoyable ride.