Maintaining your Super Deluxe Coil Select [paid link] rear shock ensures its performance, durability, and comfort. Regular servicing helps prevent wear and tear, ensures smooth operation, and maintains optimal shock absorption. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to install, adjust, and maintain your rear shock, along with troubleshooting tips for common setup issues. We’ll also cover the customization and optimization of the shock for better performance, compatibility with other drivetrain components, and a comparison with similar models to help you make the best decision.
Tools Required
To service your Super Deluxe Coil Select [paid link] rear shock, you will need the following tools:
- 8mm Allen wrench [paid link] (for removing bolts)
- 10mm wrench (for adjusting shock mounting bolts)
- Torque wrench [paid link] (for precise tightening)
- Shock pump (for adjusting air pressure)
- 3mm or 4mm Allen wrench [paid link] (for adjusting rebound and compression dials)
- Lubricant (for shock mounting and seals)
- Cleaning brush (for shock maintenance)
- Isopropyl alcohol (for cleaning)
- Soft cloth (for wiping down components)
- Small flathead screwdriver (for small adjustments or servicing internal parts)
Installing the Super Deluxe Coil Select Rear Shock
The installation of the Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock is crucial to ensuring the shock’s proper function. Follow these steps for a smooth installation process.
1. Prepare Your Bike
Start by removing the existing rear shock from your bike. This usually involves removing the bolts securing the shock to the frame and linkage. Make sure to clean the mounting areas thoroughly before installing the new shock.
2. Mount the Shock
Align the Super Deluxe Coil Select with the mounting points on your frame. Ensure the shock’s eyelets fit perfectly into the frame’s shock mounts. Use an 8mm Allen wrench or 10mm wrench, depending on the size of the bolts, to secure the shock in place.
3. Tighten the Bolts
Using the appropriate torque wrench [paid link], tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings. Tightening to the correct specifications ensures proper function and avoids damage to the shock or frame.
4. Check Shock Alignment
Once the shock is mounted, check its alignment with the frame. Ensure it moves freely without obstruction, and there is no contact with any other parts of the bike.
5. Adjust the Spring
The Super Deluxe Coil Select features a coil spring that must be matched to your rider weight and riding style. Adjust the preload on the coil to achieve the correct sag. Use the provided shock pump to adjust the air pressure to the desired level.
Adjusting the Super Deluxe Coil Select Rear Shock
Proper adjustment of your rear shock is vital to achieving optimal performance and comfort while riding. The Super Deluxe Coil Select has several adjustable settings that allow you to fine-tune your ride.
1. Adjust Rebound
The rebound dial controls how quickly the shock returns to its normal position after compressing. To adjust the rebound, use a 3mm or 4mm Allen wrench to turn the dial. If you’re experiencing a “bouncy” ride or the shock rebounds too quickly, decrease the rebound setting. If the shock is slow to return or feels “sticky,” increase the rebound setting.
2. Adjust Compression
Compression damping controls the shock’s resistance to compression during hard hits or landings. Turn the compression dial using the Allen wrench to increase or decrease compression damping. Stiffer compression settings can help you control bottoming out during aggressive descents, while a softer setting can provide more comfort on rough trails.
3. Set Sag
Sag is the amount the rear shock compresses under the rider’s weight. Adjust the preload on the coil spring to achieve the correct sag, which should typically be between 25% and 30% of the total travel. To set the sag, sit on the bike with your riding gear on and measure how much the shock compresses.
4. Fine-Tuning for Your Riding Style
Customize your shock settings based on your riding style. For more aggressive downhill riding, increase the compression to handle rougher terrain, while for cross-country riding, you may want a softer setting to absorb small bumps and obstacles.
Maintaining the Super Deluxe Coil Select Rear Shock
Regular maintenance helps keep your Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock working efficiently for years. Follow these simple steps to maintain your shock.
1. Cleaning and Inspection
Regularly clean your rear shock to remove dirt, mud, and debris that can affect its performance. Use a soft brush to remove any buildup and wipe down the shock with a cloth soaked in isopropyl alcohol. Check the shock for any signs of leaks or damage.
2. Lubricate the Mounting Points
Lubricate the shock’s mounting hardware and eyelets with a light grease or lubricant. This prevents corrosion and ensures smooth movement of the shock during use.
3. Check for Leaks
Inspect the shock for any signs of oil or air leaks. Leaking fluid can indicate a problem with the shock’s seals. If you notice a leak, it may be time for a rebuild or replacement of the seals.
4. Service the Shock Internals
For more in-depth maintenance, the internal components of the shock, including the damper and seals, should be serviced periodically. This often involves removing the shock from the bike and disassembling it. Depending on your level of expertise, you may want to have this service performed by a professional.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
If your Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock isn’t performing as expected, here are some common issues and troubleshooting tips.
1. The Shock Feels Too Soft or Too Hard
If the shock feels too soft, it could be because the spring rate is too low for your weight. Consider installing a stiffer spring. If the shock feels too hard, a softer spring or a lower preload setting may be necessary.
2. Unstable Rebound
If the rebound feels unstable, check the rebound settings and adjust them according to your needs. If the issue persists, inspect the shock for any damage or air leakage, which could affect rebound performance.
3. Noisy Shock
A noisy shock can be caused by dry seals or debris in the shock. Clean the shock and apply lubricant to the mounting points and seals. If the noise continues, the seals may need to be replaced.
Customization and Optimization
To get the most out of your Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock, it’s essential to adjust it to suit your specific riding style and conditions.
1. Customizing for Riding Style
Aggressive riders may prefer firmer compression damping to handle high-impact landings, while cross-country riders may opt for softer compression settings for comfort. Experiment with different settings until you find the ideal balance.
2. Optimizing for Terrain
The Super Deluxe Coil Select can be optimized for different terrains. For downhill or rough trail riding, increase the compression damping to prevent bottoming out, while reducing compression for smoother trails and lighter riding.
3. Weight Considerations
Ensure that the spring rate is matched to your weight. A coil that is too stiff or too soft will negatively affect your ride. By adjusting the preload or switching to a different spring, you can fine-tune your shock’s performance.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock is designed to work seamlessly with various bike frames, but it is essential to check compatibility with your drivetrain. Most rear shocks are compatible with modern bikes that have a standard shock mount. Ensure that the shock’s travel and mounting dimensions match your frame’s specifications. Additionally, check the shock’s compatibility with other components like the frame linkage and rear triangle, as some bikes require specific shock designs.
Comparison with Similar Models
When considering a rear shock upgrade, it’s helpful to compare the Super Deluxe Coil Select with similar models. The Super Deluxe Coil Select stands out for its coil spring design, which offers superior consistency and performance on rough terrain compared to air shocks. While air shocks like the RockShox Monarch or Fox Float are lighter and more adjustable, the Super Deluxe Coil Select provides superior comfort and control for aggressive riders on demanding trails.
The choice between coil and air shocks largely depends on your riding style and the type of terrain you ride most often. Coil shocks are ideal for riders who need predictable performance and can handle the extra weight, while air shocks are a better choice for those seeking a lighter setup with more tuning options.
By following this guide, you’ll ensure that your Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock performs at its best, providing a smooth and controlled ride on all your adventures.