The Marzocchi Bomber Air [paid link] Rear Shock is a high-performance suspension component designed for aggressive riders and downhill mountain bikers. Regular servicing and maintenance of this shock are essential to ensure it performs optimally, offering the right balance of comfort and control. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about servicing the Bomber Air [paid link], including installation, adjustment, maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization.

Tools Required

Before beginning your servicing, gather the following tools:

• Marzocchi-specific shock pump
• 8mm and 10mm wrenches
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• 2.5mm and 5mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
• Suspension oil (as specified by Marzocchi)
• Seal kit for Bomber Air
• Small brush (for cleaning)
• Latex gloves (for cleanliness)
• Bench vise (optional, for stability)
• Small flathead screwdriver

Installation of the Bomber Air Rear Shock

Installing the Marzocchi Bomber Air Rear Shock is a straightforward process but requires attention to detail to ensure proper fitment and functionality.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide:

1. Remove the old shock (if replacing): Use your 8mm and 10mm wrenches to loosen the bolts holding the previous shock in place. Keep the mounting hardware as you’ll reuse it for the Bomber Air.
2. Clean the mounting area: Before installing the new shock, clean the mount points on the frame. Remove any debris, old grease, or dirt to avoid contaminating the new shock.
3. Position the shock: Place the Bomber Air shock into the mount, ensuring that it aligns properly with the shock eyelet. The shock should fit snugly and be oriented as recommended by Marzocchi.
4. Tighten the bolts: Using the 10mm wrench, secure the shock in place by tightening the bolts. Be careful not to over-tighten, as this could damage the shock or the frame.
5. Check for proper alignment: Once the shock is mounted, ensure that the eyelets are aligned correctly with the shock mount. Misalignment can cause unwanted friction and premature wear.
6. Add air pressure: Use the Marzocchi shock pump to set the correct air pressure. The recommended pressure depends on your weight and riding style. Refer to the manual for guidance.

Adjustment of the Bomber Air Rear Shock

Fine-tuning the Bomber Air Rear Shock can significantly improve your ride experience. There are several adjustment features you can modify to match your preferences.

Key Adjustment Points:

1. Air Pressure: The Bomber Air utilizes a positive and negative air chamber, which affects both compression and rebound. Adjust the pressure according to your body weight and the terrain you plan to ride. For trail riding, a slightly higher air pressure provides more support, while lower pressure can enhance comfort on rough terrain.
2. Compression Damping: The Bomber Air features a compression damping adjustment knob that controls how the shock reacts to impacts. For smoother, less aggressive trails, a softer setting may be preferable, while firmer settings are ideal for aggressive riders tackling rougher trails.
3. Rebound Damping: Adjusting the rebound allows you to control how quickly the shock returns to its original position after compression. Set the rebound speed to ensure the shock doesn’t bounce too quickly or too slowly. A slower rebound is typically suited for downhill riding, while a quicker rebound is better for cross-country or all-mountain riding.
4. Sag Setup: Adjusting the sag (the amount the shock compresses under your weight) is critical for optimal performance. Aim for about 30% sag, which means the shock should compress by 30% of its travel when you sit on the bike. Adjust the air pressure accordingly if you notice too much or too little sag.

Maintenance of the Bomber Air Rear Shock

Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your Bomber Air rear shock. Marzocchi recommends a full service every 50 hours of riding or once a year, whichever comes first.

Routine Cleaning and Lubrication:

1. Clean the shock: After each ride, use a clean cloth to wipe down the shock and remove any dirt, mud, or debris. This prevents grime from building up and damaging the seals.
2. Lubricate the shock: Apply a small amount of suspension oil to the stanchions to ensure smooth travel and to reduce friction. Be cautious not to over-apply oil, as it can attract dirt and cause buildup.

Seal Replacement:

To maintain proper shock function, the seals must be replaced regularly. Here’s how to replace the seals:

1. Disassemble the shock: Use the proper Allen wrenches [paid link] to remove the shock’s top cap and other parts that house the seals.
2. Remove the old seals: Carefully pry out the old seals using a small flathead screwdriver or a seal removal tool.
3. Clean the shock body: Before installing the new seals, clean the shock body thoroughly to remove any dust or oil buildup.
4. Install new seals: Using the seal kit, install the new seals into their respective grooves. Ensure they are seated properly to prevent leakage.
5. Reassemble the shock: Once the seals are in place, reassemble the shock, ensuring everything is tightened to the manufacturer’s torque specifications.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with regular maintenance, the Bomber Air may encounter some common issues. Here are a few troubleshooting tips:

Lack of Rebound Control:

• Possible Cause: Insufficient oil or low air pressure in the rebound chamber.
• Solution: Check the air pressure and oil levels. If the oil level is low, replace it with fresh suspension oil.

Excessive Sag:

• Possible Cause: Incorrect air pressure setting or worn seals.
• Solution: Double-check the air pressure according to your weight and adjust the shock’s sag. If sag persists, inspect and replace the seals.

Unusual Noises:

• Possible Cause: Dirt or debris lodged inside the shock.
• Solution: Clean the shock thoroughly after each ride, and ensure all moving parts are free of dirt. If the noise persists, check the seals and replace them if necessary.

Customization and Optimization for Performance

To get the most out of your Bomber Air rear shock, it’s important to customize it to your riding style and terrain.

• Downhill Riding: For downhill riding, you’ll want a firmer compression damping setting and a slower rebound. This will prevent the shock from bouncing too quickly and allow for better control during aggressive descents.
• Cross-Country Riding: For cross-country riding, use a softer compression setting and a faster rebound. This will help absorb smaller impacts and improve pedaling efficiency.
• Enduro and All-Mountain: If you ride a mix of aggressive downhill and technical climbs, a balanced setting with moderate compression and rebound damping will provide the best performance.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Bomber Air Rear Shock is compatible with a wide range of modern mountain bike frames. However, it is crucial to ensure that your frame’s suspension design is compatible with the Bomber Air shock’s dimensions and mounting system. Always refer to your bike’s manual or consult the manufacturer for compatibility before installing the shock.

Additionally, when replacing the shock, ensure that your suspension fork and other drivetrain components (like the front and rear derailleurs) are suited to work with a rear shock of similar travel and design. Proper integration of these parts ensures smooth ride performance across various trail types.