Preventative Maintenance for Fenix AIR Rear Shocks

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The Fenix AIR [paid link] rear shock by Fast Suspension is a high-performance suspension component designed for aggressive riding, providing riders with the ability to tackle tough trails while maintaining comfort and control. Regular preventative maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the shock. This guide covers the necessary steps for installation, maintenance, adjustment, and troubleshooting of the Fenix AIR [paid link] rear shock, while also highlighting potential customization options for improved performance.

Tools Required

  • Shock pump
  • 5mm Allen key
  • 3mm Allen key
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • Cleaning brushes (soft bristle)
  • Isopropyl alcohol
  • Silicone grease
  • Suspension oil (specific to Fenix AIR model)
  • T30 Torx wrench [paid link] (for removing shock hardware)
  • Clean rags
  • Zip ties or cable ties (optional, for cable management)

Installation of Fenix AIR Rear Shock

Installing the Fenix AIR rear shock requires careful attention to detail to ensure it functions optimally. Follow these steps for a proper installation:

  1. Prepare the Bike Frame: Before installing the rear shock, make sure the bike frame is clean and free from any debris. If necessary, clean the mounting points on the frame with isopropyl alcohol.
  2. Align the Shock: Position the shock so that the eyelets are aligned with the mounting points on the frame. Ensure the shock’s mounting hardware matches the frame’s design.
  3. Install Mounting Hardware: Use the appropriate hardware (bushings and bolts) to secure the shock to the frame. Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings using a torque wrench [paid link] to avoid over-tightening or under-tightening.
  4. Attach the Shock Linkage: If applicable, attach the shock’s linkage system (if your bike utilizes a linkage system for rear suspension). Ensure all components are properly aligned and secured.
  5. Set Initial Air Pressure: Using a shock pump, set the air pressure in the Fenix AIR shock according to your weight and riding style. The correct pressure will help maintain optimal suspension performance.
  6. Check for Free Movement: Ensure the shock moves freely through its full range of motion without binding. If resistance is felt, check for misalignment or installation errors.

Adjustment and Maintenance of Fenix AIR Rear Shock

Proper adjustment and routine maintenance are crucial for maintaining the Fenix AIR rear shock’s performance. Below are the primary adjustment and maintenance tasks you should perform regularly:

Air Pressure Adjustment

Adjusting the air pressure in the Fenix AIR shock is the most critical aspect of tuning its performance. The shock is designed to be fully air-adjustable, allowing for fine-tuning based on the rider’s weight and riding conditions.

  1. Check the Current Pressure: Use a shock pump to check the current air pressure. This can help you determine whether it needs an adjustment.
  2. Adjust the Pressure: Add or release air from the shock as needed. For most riders, a starting point of 25-30% of the shock’s travel for sag is recommended. Fine-tune based on your personal preference and riding conditions.
  3. Test Ride and Reassess: After making adjustments, perform a test ride and assess the shock’s performance. Adjust again if the ride feels too harsh or too soft.

Rebound and Compression Damping

The Fenix AIR shock offers both rebound and compression damping adjustments, allowing you to customize how the shock responds to impacts and rebounds.

  • Rebound Adjustment: Rebound controls how quickly the shock returns to its original position after compressing. Turn the rebound knob to adjust the speed. Slower rebound speeds are ideal for rougher terrain, while faster rebound speeds are better for smoother trails.
  • Compression Adjustment: The compression dial allows you to adjust how the shock compresses when hitting bumps or obstacles. A higher compression setting will result in a firmer ride, whereas a lower setting will offer a more plush feel. Adjust the dial according to trail conditions.

Routine Maintenance

To keep your Fenix AIR rear shock in top condition, follow these maintenance steps regularly:

  • Clean the Shock: After every ride, clean the shock body and the eyelet bushings with a soft-bristle brush and a rag. Use isopropyl alcohol to remove dirt, grease, and debris from the shock’s body and seals.
  • Check for Leaks: Inspect the shock for any signs of oil leakage. Leaking oil can indicate a damaged seal, which will require repair or replacement.
  • Lubricate the Seals: Periodically, lubricate the shock’s seals with a light coat of silicone grease to ensure they remain supple and effective in preventing dirt and moisture from entering the shock.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Fenix AIR Rear Shocks

Even with proper maintenance, issues can occasionally arise with the Fenix AIR rear shock. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:

Lack of Rebound

  • Cause: If the shock rebounds too slowly or not at all, it could indicate that the rebound adjustment is too slow or the oil is too thick.
  • Solution: Adjust the rebound dial to a faster setting. If the issue persists, it may be necessary to service the shock and replace the oil.

Air Pressure Loss

  • Cause: A sudden loss of air pressure could be due to a damaged air chamber or a faulty valve.
  • Solution: Inspect the shock for any visible damage. Refill the air chamber and monitor for any further loss of pressure. If the issue persists, contact a professional to inspect and service the shock.

No Compression or Excessive Softness

  • Cause: If the shock is overly soft or not compressing as it should, it may be due to improper air pressure or incorrect compression damping settings.
  • Solution: First, check and adjust the air pressure to the recommended settings. Then, adjust the compression damping dial to ensure the shock provides the right amount of support for your riding style.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

The Fenix AIR rear shock offers several customization options to enhance performance based on your specific riding needs:

Customizing Air Pressure

Adjusting the air pressure according to your weight, riding style, and terrain is the most direct way to optimize performance. For riders focused on aggressive trail riding or downhill racing, increasing air pressure can provide a firmer, more controlled ride. Conversely, reducing air pressure can offer a more plush and forgiving feel for cross-country or endurance rides.

Fine-Tuning Damping

The ability to adjust both rebound and compression damping allows riders to fine-tune how the shock reacts to various trail conditions. Riders who often encounter steep descents or technical sections might prefer a slower rebound and higher compression settings, whereas those who ride smoother trails might opt for faster rebound and lower compression.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Fenix AIR rear shock is compatible with a wide range of modern mountain bike drivetrains. However, it’s important to ensure that the shock’s specifications align with your bike frame and other components. The shock’s eyelet dimensions and mounting hardware must match those of the frame’s rear triangle. Additionally, if you are running a specific drivetrain, such as SRAM or Shimano, ensure that the suspension travel and setup complement the performance characteristics of your other components.

Conclusion

Preventative maintenance is essential to prolong the life of your Fenix AIR rear shock and maintain its high-level performance. Regularly adjusting air pressure, damping settings, and keeping the shock clean and properly lubricated will ensure that your rear shock continues to perform at its best. By troubleshooting common issues early and customizing the shock to your needs, you can enjoy smoother rides and better control on even the most challenging trails.