The Storia V3 [paid link] rear shock from EXT is a premium shock designed for high-performance mountain biking. It offers an array of advanced features and provides a smooth, controlled ride on challenging terrain. However, to maintain peak [paid link] performance and longevity, it is essential to properly service the Storia V3 [paid link]. This guide will take you through the necessary steps for installation, adjustment, maintenance, and troubleshooting, ensuring your rear shock continues to deliver exceptional performance.

Tools Required

Before beginning any service or maintenance on your Storia V3 rear shock, ensure you have the correct tools at hand:

• Torque wrench [paid link] (with a range suitable for your shock bolts)
• Allen wrenches [paid link] (5mm and 6mm)
• Spanner wrenches (for removing the air can)
• Shock pump (for adjusting air pressure)
• Suspension oil (as specified by EXT for the Storia V3)
• Soft brush (for cleaning)
• Cleaning rags
• Isopropyl alcohol (for cleaning)
• Teflon grease (for reassembling parts)
• Silicone-based lubrication (for the shock body)

Installation of the Storia V3 Rear Shock

Installing the Storia V3 rear shock is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to detail to ensure the shock performs optimally and is securely mounted on your bike. Here’s how you can install it:

1. Mounting the Shock on the Frame

• Begin by removing the old shock, if applicable, using an Allen wrench [paid link] to undo the mounting bolts on both ends of the shock.
• Clean the shock mounts on the bike frame with a soft brush and rag, ensuring no debris or dirt remains.
• Position the Storia V3 shock onto the frame, aligning the shock’s eyelets with the frame’s mounting points.
• Insert the appropriate bolts and tighten them using a torque wrench [paid link] to the manufacturer’s recommended torque value, ensuring the bolts are not over-tightened.

2. Setting Up the Air Pressure

• Use a shock pump to adjust the air pressure in the positive and negative chambers of the shock.
• Begin with the recommended starting pressure (found in the shock manual) and adjust based on your rider weight and intended usage.

Adjustments for Optimal Performance

The Storia V3 rear shock features various adjustments that help fine-tune its performance to suit different riding conditions and rider preferences. The key adjustments include:

1. Rebound Damping

Rebound damping controls how quickly the shock returns to its original position after compression. For smoother trails or technical descents, you may want to adjust the rebound damping for slower return speeds to prevent harsh jolts.

• Turn the rebound knob clockwise to slow down the rebound.
• Turn the rebound knob counterclockwise to speed up the rebound.
• Start with a middle setting and adjust based on your preference.

2. Compression Damping

Compression damping controls how the shock resists compression under load, allowing you to fine-tune the shock for smoother landings or better control on rough terrain.

• The Storia V3 has both high-speed and low-speed compression adjustments.
• Low-speed compression controls the shock’s response to small bumps and pedaling forces, while high-speed compression governs larger impacts, like drops.
• Use the dial to adjust the low-speed compression for your riding style, then fine-tune the high-speed compression to manage bigger hits.

3. Air Spring Volume

The Storia V3 offers adjustable volume spacers to modify the shock’s spring curve, which affects the shock’s overall feel during compressions.

• For a more progressive feel (more support at the end of the stroke), increase the number of spacers.
• For a more linear spring rate, remove some spacers.
• Experiment with different configurations to find the ideal setup for your riding style.

Routine Maintenance of the Storia V3 Rear Shock

Proper maintenance ensures your Storia V3 rear shock performs optimally over the long term. Regular cleaning and oil changes help prevent premature wear and maintain smooth operation.

1. Cleaning the Shock

• After each ride, clean the shock with a soft brush and a rag to remove dirt, mud, and debris.
• Use isopropyl alcohol to clean the shock body, especially the stanchion tubes, to maintain smooth movement.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the shock’s seals.

2. Oil Change

Changing the oil inside the shock is crucial for maintaining its damping performance. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended intervals for oil changes, usually after every 50-100 hours of riding.

• Remove the air can using a spanner wrench and drain the oil from the shock.
• Clean the shock internals thoroughly and replace the old oil with fresh suspension fluid, as recommended by EXT.
• Reassemble the shock and ensure all components are properly lubricated before reinserting the air can and securing the shock.

3. Seals Inspection

Regularly inspect the shock’s seals for wear. If you notice any oil leaking or compromised seals, they must be replaced to avoid damage to the shock internals.

• Carefully remove the seals and inspect them for cracks or wear.
• Lubricate the seals with silicone-based grease to maintain their function and reduce friction.
• Replace seals if they show any signs of damage.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

The Storia V3 is a highly sophisticated rear shock, but like all mechanical components, it can encounter issues. Below are some common problems and solutions:

1. Lack of Rebound Control

If you notice the shock rebounding too quickly or too slowly, the rebound knob may be misadjusted, or there could be an issue with the internal damping system.

• First, check the rebound adjustment and fine-tune it to the correct setting.
• If the problem persists, it could indicate a need for internal servicing, such as a rebuild or oil change.

2. Bottoming Out

If the shock bottoms out too easily during impacts, it could be due to insufficient air pressure or the wrong volume spacer configuration.

• Increase the air pressure in the shock or adjust the volume spacers for a more progressive feel.
• Recheck the compression settings to ensure the shock is properly resisting larger impacts.

3. Unusual Noises

If you hear unusual noises coming from the shock, it may be caused by dirty or damaged seals, or it could be an indication that the shock oil is old and needs replacing.

• Clean and lubricate the seals, and inspect the shock for any damage.
• If the noise continues, perform an oil change or consider having the shock serviced professionally.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

To fully optimize the Storia V3 for your riding style, consider customizing the shock with different volume spacers, tuning the air pressure, and adjusting the compression and rebound damping.

1. Fine-Tuning for Downhill Riding

For downhill or aggressive trail riding, you’ll want to use a higher air pressure for more support and adjust the compression to handle big hits. Opt for less rebound damping to ensure the shock recovers quickly during fast descents.

2. Fine-Tuning for Cross-Country Riding

For cross-country or endurance riding, you may prefer a softer setup with lower air pressure, which will enhance comfort and traction. Adjust the compression damping for better pedaling efficiency and reduce rebound damping slightly for smoother handling over rough terrain.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Storia V3 rear shock is compatible with a wide range of mountain bikes. However, it’s important to ensure your bike’s frame is designed to handle the shock’s size and mounting style. Check your bike’s rear triangle to confirm the shock’s eyelet measurements, as well as the frame’s specifications for shock compatibility.

Additionally, ensure the suspension geometry of your bike matches the travel and stroke length of the Storia V3. Using the wrong shock size or configuration can lead to poor handling or compromised performance.