The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock from RockShox is renowned for its performance and durability, making it a popular choice among serious mountain bikers and enthusiasts. This shock offers superior adjustability and damping, delivering a smooth ride even on the roughest terrain. However, to ensure it continues performing at its best, regular preventative maintenance is crucial. This guide will walk you through the steps required for maintaining the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate, covering everything from installation and adjustment to troubleshooting and optimization.

Tools Required

• Shock pump
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• 5mm and 8mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
• 10mm spanner
• 2.5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
• Clean rags or paper towels
• Suspension grease
• RockShox oil or compatible oil for servicing
• Seal kits specific to the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate model

Installation of the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate

Installing the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate correctly is essential to ensure optimal performance. Here are the steps to follow for proper installation:

1. Remove the existing shock: Before installing the new shock, detach the old one by removing the bolts on both the upper and lower shock mounts. Use a 5mm Allen wrench [paid link] for the upper bolt and an 8mm Allen wrench for the lower bolt.
2. Prepare the new shock: Ensure the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate is the correct size for your bike frame and that the coil spring is properly matched to your weight and riding style.
3. Install the shock: Position the shock in the frame’s shock mounts, making sure the orientation is correct for the frame’s geometry. Attach the shock by tightening the bolts to the recommended torque settings. Use a torque wrench [paid link] to ensure you don’t overtighten.
4. Set sag and adjust spring preload: Once the shock is installed, set the sag to your desired level. Adjust the preload on the coil spring using the 10mm spanner to ensure the shock compresses at the right rate when riding.
5. Check alignment: Ensure that the shock is aligned correctly, with no interference or misalignment that could cause undue wear on the components.

Adjustment for Optimal Performance

The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate comes equipped with several adjustable features to optimize your ride. Proper adjustments are necessary to suit your riding style and terrain.

Rebound Damping Adjustment

The rebound damping controls how quickly the shock extends after compression. Adjusting this correctly ensures that the shock returns smoothly without being too slow or too fast. Use the rebound knob located at the bottom of the shock:

• Turn clockwise to slow down the rebound (useful for controlling the shock in aggressive terrain).
• Turn counterclockwise to speed up the rebound (ideal for smoother, more controlled rides).

Compression Damping Adjustment

The compression damping controls the shock’s resistance to compression. Adjust this to find the best balance between comfort and control:

• Low-speed compression: For terrain that requires a soft, forgiving ride, dial back the low-speed compression. This is generally adjusted via the top dial.
• High-speed compression: This affects the shock’s response to hard hits or rough terrain. If you’re riding on rough trails, adjust the high-speed compression to prevent bottoming out.

Air Pressure Settings

While the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate uses a coil spring rather than air, setting the correct spring preload is still crucial for maintaining proper suspension function. Make adjustments based on rider weight and riding style.

Maintenance and Service

Regular maintenance ensures that the shock performs optimally over time, preventing wear and damage.

Clean the Shock Regularly

After each ride, wipe down the shock with a clean rag to remove dirt, mud, and debris. Dirt can get into the seals and cause wear over time, leading to reduced performance or leaks.

Check for Leaks

Inspect the seals regularly for signs of leakage. Leaking oil can significantly affect the shock’s performance. If you notice any fluid on the shock body, it’s time for a rebuild.

Rebuild the Shock Every 50-100 Hours of Riding

RockShox recommends performing a full rebuild of the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate every 50 to 100 hours of riding. This involves disassembling the shock, cleaning the internal components, replacing worn seals, and replenishing the shock oil. Using a seal kit specific to the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate will ensure the shock maintains its performance.

Lubricate the Bushings

Over time, the bushings that connect the shock to the frame can wear down. Lubricate these bushings regularly to ensure smooth movement and reduce wear. Use suspension grease, and reapply as necessary to avoid excessive friction or squeaking.

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

Although the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate is a high-performance shock, issues can arise from time to time. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

The Shock Bottoms Out Too Easily

If the shock bottoms out too quickly, it could be due to insufficient spring preload or excessive compression damping. To fix this:

• Increase the preload on the coil spring if the sag is too deep.
• Increase the compression damping to prevent the shock from compressing too much under heavier impacts.

The Rebound is Too Fast or Too Slow

If the rebound is too slow, the shock may feel like it’s lagging behind. If it’s too fast, you may feel a “bucking” sensation. Adjust the rebound settings based on your ride:

• Slow rebound for rough, technical trails.
• Fast rebound for smoother trails or if you’re riding aggressively.

Noisy Shock or Squeaking

If you hear a squeaking sound, it could indicate that the shock bushings are dry or the shock is improperly lubricated. Apply suspension grease to the bushings and check that the shock is properly aligned.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

Customizing the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate to suit your riding style can improve its performance significantly.

• Coil Spring Tuning: Riders can swap out the coil spring to better match their weight and riding style. Lighter riders may prefer a softer spring, while heavier riders may need a stiffer one.
• Shock Setup for Different Trails: Fine-tune the shock for specific types of trails. On rough, rocky trails, use more compression damping to avoid bottoming out. For flowy trails, a softer compression setting can improve comfort and performance.
• Personal Rebound Settings: Adjust the rebound damping based on your riding preferences. If you ride aggressively, a slower rebound might be more appropriate, while faster rebound can provide more control on smoother trails.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate is compatible with most modern mountain bike frames, but it’s important to check its compatibility with other components, especially the drivetrain.

• Mounting Standards: The shock uses standard mounting hardware, but make sure your bike frame supports it. Check the dimensions of the shock’s eyelet and stroke length to ensure proper fitment.
• Coil Spring Weight: The coil spring must match the rider’s weight. If you’re upgrading your shock, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for the recommended coil spring rate.

Conclusion

The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate is a premium rear shock designed for top-tier performance. Proper installation, regular maintenance, and precise adjustments are key to ensuring it operates at its full potential. With the right care, this shock will provide you with superior comfort, control, and durability, no matter the terrain you’re tackling. By following the maintenance steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to extend the life of your shock and keep it performing at its best for years to come.