The Öhlins STX22 Air rear shock is a high-performance component designed for mountain and trail bikes, offering superb suspension performance and durability. However, like all precision components, it requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance, longevity, and safety. Preventative maintenance is crucial in keeping the STX22 Air rear shock functioning at its best. This guide provides detailed instructions on how to properly maintain the STX22 Air, addressing installation, adjustment, maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization.

Tools Required

• Öhlins recommended shock pump
• Allen wrenches [paid link] (variety of sizes)
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• 8mm and 10mm wrenches
• Teflon tape
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Clean rags
• Suspension grease
• Bicycle stand (optional, but recommended for ease of access)
• Safety glasses and gloves (recommended for protection)

Installation of STX22 Air Rear Shock

Installing the STX22 Air rear shock is a straightforward process, but it must be done with care to avoid any damage to the shock or the bike frame. Follow these steps to ensure a secure and proper installation.

1. Prepare the Frame

Before installing the shock, ensure that the frame’s rear shock mount points are clean and free from dirt or debris. This helps ensure a secure fit and prevents any contamination from affecting the shock’s performance.

2. Check the Shock Length and Stroke

Ensure that the STX22 Air rear shock is the correct size for your bike. Verify the shock’s length and stroke match the specifications recommended for your frame. This is crucial for maintaining proper suspension geometry.

3. Install the Shock

Place the shock into the rear mount points, aligning the upper and lower eyelets with their corresponding shock mount points on the frame. Use the appropriate bolts to secure the shock, tightening them to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications.

4. Set Air Pressure

After the shock is installed, use an Öhlins recommended shock pump to adjust the air pressure. The correct air pressure depends on your weight, riding style, and bike geometry. Refer to the Öhlins manual for the recommended air pressure range for your specific model.

5. Check for Proper Function

With the shock installed and air pressure adjusted, check for smooth suspension movement. Compress the shock and ensure it moves freely without binding. If there’s any unusual resistance or noise, recheck the installation and adjust the air pressure.

Adjustment of STX22 Air Rear Shock

To get the best performance from your STX22 Air rear shock, it’s essential to adjust it to your riding style, terrain, and preferences. The STX22 Air offers several adjustment features, including rebound, compression, and air spring pressure. Below are the key adjustments you should make.

1. Rebound Adjustment

Rebound controls how quickly the shock returns after being compressed. Adjusting the rebound to the correct setting ensures that your rear shock behaves predictably on rough terrain. To adjust:

• Turn the rebound knob located at the bottom of the shock (near the air valve).
• Turn clockwise to slow the rebound (slower return).
• Turn counterclockwise to speed up the rebound (faster return).
• Test ride your bike and fine-tune the setting based on how it feels on the trail.

2. Compression Adjustment

Compression adjustment impacts how the shock responds to bumps and impacts. The STX22 Air allows for low-speed and high-speed compression adjustments.

• Low-speed compression affects the shock’s reaction to small, gradual bumps.
• High-speed compression adjusts the shock’s response to larger impacts and fast compressions.

To adjust compression:

• Use the compression knobs located at the top of the shock to adjust both low and high-speed compression.
• Start with the recommended baseline settings from the manufacturer, then make small adjustments during test rides.

3. Air Pressure Adjustment

Adjusting air pressure helps fine-tune the overall feel of the suspension. The air pressure setting determines how much the shock will compress under your weight and how it performs during riding.

• Adjust air pressure using an Öhlins shock pump.
• Ensure the air pressure is within the recommended range for your body weight and riding style.
• If you notice bottoming out on rough trails, increase the pressure slightly. Conversely, decrease the pressure if the ride feels too stiff.

Maintenance of STX22 Air Rear Shock

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure your STX22 Air rear shock remains in top condition. The following tasks should be performed regularly to prevent premature wear and maintain performance.

1. Clean the Shock

Dirt and debris can cause excessive wear on the shock’s components. After each ride, clean the shock by wiping it down with a clean, dry rag. For more thorough cleaning:

• Use isopropyl alcohol and a soft cloth to wipe the shock’s shaft and body.
• Ensure that no dirt or contaminants enter the shock’s seals.

2. Inspect Seals and Bushings

Check the shock’s seals and bushings regularly for wear and tear. Over time, seals can degrade, causing air leaks or decreased performance. If you notice any signs of oil leakage or reduced suspension performance, it may be time to replace the seals.

3. Lubricate the Shock

Lubricating the shock helps maintain smooth operation. Apply a thin layer of suspension grease to the shock’s bushings and mount points during regular maintenance. This ensures that the shock moves smoothly and that wear is minimized.

4. Check for Air Leaks

Inspect the shock’s air chamber for any signs of leaks. If you experience sudden drops in air pressure, it could indicate a leak in the shock’s seals or air valve. If this happens, you will need to replace the seals or seek professional servicing.

5. Perform Full Service

A full service of the STX22 Air shock should be performed after every 100-150 hours of riding. This involves removing the shock from the bike, disassembling it, inspecting internal components, and replacing worn parts such as seals, oil, or air canisters. Always refer to the Öhlins service manual for detailed instructions on performing this maintenance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with STX22 Air Rear Shock

1. Air Pressure Drops Too Quickly

If the air pressure drops unexpectedly, it could indicate a leak in the air canister or valve. Inspect the valve for any visible damage or wear, and check the seals for leaks. If no obvious issues are found, the shock may need to be serviced.

2. Uneven Rebound

If the rebound feels uneven or too fast/slow, it may indicate an issue with the rebound adjuster or a lack of oil in the shock. Adjust the rebound setting first. If the issue persists, a full service of the shock may be required.

3. Poor Suspension Performance

If the shock feels too stiff or too soft, check the air pressure and adjust it according to your weight and riding style. If the problem continues, inspect the shock’s compression and rebound settings, and make sure they are properly tuned for your riding conditions.

Customization and Optimization

To optimize the performance of your STX22 Air rear shock, consider your specific riding conditions. The STX22 Air is highly customizable, allowing you to fine-tune it for different terrains and styles of riding. For riders who prefer aggressive downhill or enduro riding, consider increasing the low-speed compression to improve stability. For cross-country or trail riding, a softer setting with lower compression might be more suitable.

By regularly adjusting the settings and maintaining the shock, you can ensure that the STX22 Air provides the best possible performance throughout its lifespan.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Öhlins STX22 Air rear shock is designed to work seamlessly with a variety of modern mountain bike frames and drivetrains. It is compatible with most modern suspension designs, including those that use boost and non-boost hubs. However, it’s always important to check the specific frame and shock compatibility before installation.

Key Considerations:

• Ensure that the frame’s shock mount points match the shock’s dimensions.
• Check the bike’s rear triangle clearance to ensure the shock has enough room to operate without interference.
• Some frames may require specific mounting hardware, so consult the frame and shock manufacturer’s guidelines for compatibility.

Maintaining and optimizing your Öhlins STX22 Air rear shock can significantly enhance your riding experience, ensuring that it performs at its peak for years to come. Regular servicing, proper adjustments, and attention to detail during installation and maintenance will help maximize both the lifespan and performance of this exceptional rear shock.