Maintaining the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T rear shock is essential for keeping your bike’s suspension performing at its best. Whether you are riding on rugged trails or smooth roads, regular preventative maintenance ensures that the shock remains responsive, reliable, and extends its lifespan. This guide will cover everything from routine maintenance to troubleshooting and optimizing the shock for better performance.

Installation and Setup

Before diving into maintenance, it’s crucial to ensure your Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T rear shock is correctly installed and set up. A proper installation ensures the shock functions as designed and provides optimal performance during every ride.

1. Installation Steps:
   • Positioning: Mount the shock securely to the frame and ensure it is aligned correctly with the linkage or swingarm. Refer to your bike’s specific setup instructions for the exact mounting specifications.
   • Torque Settings: Use a torque wrench [paid link] to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. Over-tightening or under-tightening can result in improper shock performance or potential damage.
   • Sag Adjustment: Adjust the sag to your body weight and riding style. For the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T, this is usually around 25-30% of the total travel, but the exact number can vary based on personal preference.
   • Damper Settings: Fine-tune the compression and rebound settings based on your riding style and terrain. These adjustments will allow you to tailor the shock’s performance to your needs.
2. Air Pressure Adjustment:
   • Use a high-quality shock pump to adjust the air pressure in the shock. Follow RockShox’s recommendations for optimal pressure based on rider weight.
   • Ensure the pressure is consistent with the sag you’ve set earlier. Under or overinflating the shock can negatively affect ride quality.

Regular Maintenance

Maintaining the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T rear shock involves routine tasks that help ensure optimal performance. These maintenance procedures should be done regularly based on your riding frequency and conditions.

1. Cleaning:
   • After each ride, wipe down the shock with a clean cloth to remove dirt and debris. Be especially cautious around the seals, as dirt can cause premature wear.
   • Avoid using harsh chemicals that can degrade the seals or finish of the shock.
2. Seal Maintenance:
   • RockShox recommends cleaning the seals at least once every 10-15 rides or sooner if riding in harsh conditions (e.g., wet, muddy trails).
   • To clean the seals, remove the shock from the bike, and use a specialized suspension seal cleaner tool. Slide the tool under the seal and gently clean the debris.
   • For extra protection, apply a small amount of suspension fluid to the seals after cleaning.
3. Lubrication:
   • The shock’s bushings and moving parts should be lubricated to ensure smooth travel. Use a high-quality suspension grease on the shock’s bushings and moving components.
   • Reapply grease every few months, or more frequently if you ride in dusty or wet conditions.
4. Air Can Service:
   • Over time, air can seals and internal components can wear out or develop leaks. Perform an air can service every 30-50 hours of riding to prevent performance issues.
   • To perform an air can service, remove the air can from the shock body, inspect the seals, and replace them if necessary. Clean the inner components thoroughly before reassembly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with proper maintenance, you might encounter some common issues with the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T rear shock. Here are some solutions to address typical problems.

1. Loss of Air Pressure:
   • If you notice the shock is losing air pressure quickly, check the Schrader valve for leaks. If the valve is leaking, replace the valve core or check if the valve is securely tightened.
   • If the air can is leaking, inspect the seals for damage. A seal replacement may be required to restore pressure retention.
2. Excessive Sag or Firmness:
   • If the shock feels too soft or too firm, it could be a sign that the air pressure is not set correctly. Recheck the pressure and adjust to match the rider weight and sag setting.
   • If the shock seems too soft even with the correct pressure, the rebound setting may need adjustment, or the shock may require a full service.
3. Sticking or Harsh Movement:
   • If the shock is sticking or not moving smoothly, the seals may be contaminated with dirt or debris. Perform a seal cleaning and reapply suspension fluid to resolve this issue.
   • If the movement is still not smooth, the shock may need to be disassembled and serviced professionally to address internal issues like worn-out bushings or damper problems.

Customization and Optimization

To enhance the performance of the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T rear shock, fine-tuning its settings is key. Customizing the shock based on your riding style and terrain will allow for better responsiveness and comfort.

1. Compression Adjustment:
   • Adjusting the compression damping helps control how the shock responds to hits and impacts. Increase compression for more support on aggressive rides or decrease it for a more plush, forgiving feel.
   • For downhill riders, a firmer compression setting helps absorb larger impacts, while trail riders may benefit from a softer setting to keep the bike more responsive over rough terrain.
2. Rebound Adjustment:
   • Fine-tuning the rebound damping controls how quickly the shock returns after compression. If the shock rebounds too quickly, it can cause instability and loss of control. If it rebounds too slowly, the shock will feel sluggish and less responsive.
   • Adjust the rebound to a setting that feels comfortable to you, but avoid making it too fast or too slow. A balanced rebound setting enhances control and comfort.
3. Volume Spacers:
   • The Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T comes with adjustable volume spacers, which control the air spring’s progression. Adding spacers will make the shock more progressive, helping prevent bottoming out during aggressive riding.
   • Removing spacers will make the shock feel more linear, which may be preferable for lighter riders or those who prefer a smoother feel. Experiment with different configurations to find what works best for you.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T rear shock is designed to work seamlessly with modern mountain bike drivetrains. It’s essential to ensure compatibility with your bike’s other components, such as the frame, linkage, and drivetrain.

1. Frame Compatibility:
   • The Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T is designed to fit most modern full-suspension frames, but it is always a good idea to check with the manufacturer or your local bike shop to ensure it will fit your specific bike model.
   • Ensure that the shock’s eyelet size and stroke length match the specifications required by your bike’s rear triangle.
2. Linkage Compatibility:
   • The shock’s linkage compatibility depends on the frame design. Some bikes may require specific adapters or hardware to ensure proper fitment.
   • Be aware of the frame’s suspension design and whether the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T’s performance characteristics align with your bike’s design for optimal suspension performance.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance and proper adjustments are vital to getting the most out of your RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T rear shock. By keeping the shock clean, lubricated, and properly adjusted, you ensure that it remains a high-performance component for years to come. With the tips provided in this guide, you can troubleshoot common issues, optimize the shock’s settings for your riding style, and maintain its compatibility with other drivetrain components. By following these guidelines, you’ll enjoy smooth, responsive, and reliable suspension on every ride.