The RockShox Super Deluxe Coil Select [paid link] is a premium rear shock designed for aggressive trail and enduro riders seeking exceptional comfort, durability, and performance. With a coil-spring system, it offers a smooth and consistent ride, even in the most challenging terrains. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the Super Deluxe Coil Select [paid link]’s installation, adjustment, maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization, helping riders get the most out of this shock.
Installation of the Super Deluxe Coil Select Rear Shock
The installation of the Super Deluxe Coil Select is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to detail to ensure that the shock functions optimally. Before beginning, ensure that you have the correct mounting hardware and that your bike frame is compatible with the shock.
Steps for Installation:
- Remove the Old Shock: If replacing an old shock, remove the existing rear shock from the bike frame by loosening the mounting bolts at both ends of the shock.
- Prepare the New Shock: Ensure the new Super Deluxe Coil Select shock is equipped with the correct eyelet bushings to fit your frame’s mounting points.
- Install the Shock on the Frame: Align the shock with the mounting points on the bike frame. Start by placing the top eyelet into the frame’s upper shock mount and securing it with the appropriate bolt.
- Attach the Lower Mount: Repeat the process for the lower shock mount, ensuring the shock sits securely in the frame.
- Tighten the Bolts: Use a torque wrench [paid link] to tighten the mounting bolts to the recommended torque specifications. This step is crucial to avoid damaging the shock or the frame.
- Check for Clearance: Once installed, check the shock’s clearance and ensure that the suspension moves smoothly without any interference from the frame or other components.
Adjustment of the Super Deluxe Coil Select Rear Shock
The RockShox Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock offers a range of adjustment options to fine-tune the suspension to your riding style and terrain. These adjustments include the rebound, compression, and coil preload settings.
Rebound Adjustment:
- The rebound control dial is located on the bottom of the shock. Turn it clockwise to slow the rebound and counterclockwise to increase it.
- Fine-tuning the rebound helps control how quickly the shock returns after compression, affecting overall bike handling. For rougher, more technical terrain, a slower rebound can help maintain control and comfort.
Compression Adjustment:
- The Super Deluxe Coil Select features a high-speed compression adjustment dial located on the top of the shock.
- Turn the dial clockwise to increase compression damping for a firmer ride or counterclockwise to reduce compression damping for a more plush feel.
- High-speed compression affects how the shock handles quick, sharp impacts, such as those from rocks and roots.
Coil Preload:
- Preload adjustment is essential for ensuring that the shock has the right initial compression for your weight and riding style.
- Adjust the preload by tightening or loosening the coil’s preload collar. Tightening the collar increases the preload, making the shock firmer, while loosening it decreases preload for a softer feel.
Maintenance of the Super Deluxe Coil Select Rear Shock
Routine maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity and performance of your Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock. While the shock’s coil system requires minimal maintenance compared to air shocks, it is still important to check it regularly for any signs of wear or damage.
Steps for Regular Maintenance:
- Inspect the Shock for Leaks: Look for any signs of oil or air leakage around the seals. Leaks can indicate that the shock needs servicing.
- Clean the Shock: After every ride, wipe down the shock with a clean cloth to remove dirt, mud, and debris. Pay special attention to the area around the seals and eyelets.
- Check the Coil: Inspect the coil for any signs of damage, such as dents or cracks. If the coil shows signs of wear, it may need replacing.
- Lubricate the Shock: Apply a small amount of suspension-specific oil to the seals and any moving parts to keep the shock functioning smoothly.
- Service the Shock: Depending on the usage, consider servicing the shock every 50-100 hours of riding or annually, whichever comes first. This involves a more in-depth cleaning, oil change, and seal inspection by a professional technician.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
Though the Super Deluxe Coil Select is known for its reliability, some riders may encounter common setup issues. These problems are often related to improper adjustments, compatibility issues, or lack of maintenance. Below are common issues and their solutions.
Issue 1: The Shock Feels Too Soft or Too Hard
- Possible Cause: Incorrect preload or compression settings.
- Solution: Adjust the coil preload to suit your weight and adjust the compression damping to ensure the shock is neither too soft nor too firm for the type of riding you’re doing.
Issue 2: The Suspension Doesn’t Return Properly
- Possible Cause: The rebound setting is too fast or too slow.
- Solution: Adjust the rebound damping to find the optimal setting for your riding conditions. Slower rebound may be needed for technical trails, while faster rebound may be better for smoother rides.
Issue 3: The Shock Leaks Oil
- Possible Cause: Worn-out seals or damaged shock body.
- Solution: Inspect the seals for any signs of wear or damage. If necessary, replace the seals and get the shock serviced to prevent further damage.
Customization and Optimization for Better Performance
To get the best out of the Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock, riders can further customize and optimize the shock’s performance based on their specific riding preferences and terrain conditions.
Customizing for Aggressive Riding:
- Increase Compression: For riders who frequently encounter rough, aggressive trails, increasing compression can help manage big hits and prevent bottoming out.
- Adjust Preload for Heavy Riders: If you’re on the heavier side or carry extra gear, adding more preload will help keep the shock from sagging too much and provide better support.
Optimizing for Cross-Country and Smooth Trails:
- Lower Compression and Preload: For riders on smoother, cross-country trails, lowering the preload and compression damping allows for a softer ride, improving comfort and grip.
Comparison with Similar Models
When considering the Super Deluxe Coil Select, it’s useful to compare it with other popular rear shocks in the market. One notable competitor is the Fox DHX2 Coil Shock. While both models offer coil-sprung systems, the Super Deluxe Coil Select stands out due to its user-friendly adjustments and the easy-to-use rebound and compression settings. The DHX2, on the other hand, offers more extensive fine-tuning options for experienced riders who require more precise adjustments.
In terms of overall performance, the Super Deluxe Coil Select is slightly more forgiving, making it ideal for riders seeking a balance between performance and comfort. Meanwhile, the Fox DHX2 may be preferred by those who prioritize full customization for extreme conditions.
Understanding Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Super Deluxe Coil Select is designed to work seamlessly with a variety of drivetrain setups, particularly those with more robust, heavy-duty components meant for enduro and downhill riding. It is important to ensure that the shock’s eyelet size and mounting points match the frame of your bike. Additionally, pairing the shock with high-performance drivetrain components like SRAM’s XO1 or Shimano’s XT series can help create a well-balanced, responsive bike setup.
The shock’s performance can also be influenced by the type of linkage system in the frame. A compatible frame with an advanced suspension linkage will enhance the Super Deluxe Coil Select’s performance, providing smoother, more controlled handling. It’s always best to consult your bike manufacturer or a professional mechanic to verify compatibility before purchasing or upgrading.