The RockShox Super Deluxe Coil Select [paid link] rear shock is a high-performance suspension component designed for riders who demand both reliability and performance on aggressive trails. In this guide, we’ll delve into the specifics of this rear shock, covering its installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, customization, and compatibility with other drivetrain components. By the end of this article, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of how to optimize the Super Deluxe Coil Select [paid link] for your riding needs.

Installation of the Super Deluxe Coil Select Rear Shock

Installing the Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock requires precise attention to detail to ensure proper setup and performance. Here’s a step-by-step guide for installing the shock on your bike.

Tools Required:

• 8mm Allen wrench [paid link]
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• 15mm spanner (for coil spring)
• Shock pump
• Grease or anti-seize compound

Step-by-Step Installation:

1. Remove the Old Shock: Begin by removing the existing rear shock from your bike. Use the 8mm Allen wrench [paid link] to remove the bolts securing the shock to the frame and the linkages.
2. Prepare the New Shock: Before installing the Super Deluxe Coil Select, ensure that the shock is correctly set up for your bike’s specifications, including the coil spring preload and air pressure (if applicable).
3. Mount the Shock: Position the Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock into the rear triangle or linkage of your bike frame. Secure the shock using the bolts and tighten them with an 8mm Allen wrench. Ensure that the bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s recommended torque values.
4. Install the Coil Spring: If the coil spring is not already installed, use a 15mm spanner to compress the spring and slide it into place. Once the spring is in position, use the spanner to tighten the retaining collar to secure the spring.
5. Adjust Preload: The Super Deluxe Coil Select features a preload adjuster to fine-tune the coil spring tension. Use a spanner to adjust the preload as needed, based on your riding weight and preference.
6. Check and Set Sag: Using a shock pump, adjust the air pressure (if applicable) and set the sag by sitting on the bike and noting how much the shock compresses. Typically, sag should be set at around 25-30% of the shock’s total travel.
7. Finalize the Setup: Double-check all bolts and components to ensure everything is secure and correctly aligned. Perform a final test ride to verify the shock’s performance and make any final adjustments as needed.

Adjusting the Super Deluxe Coil Select Rear Shock

After installation, it’s essential to fine-tune the Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock for optimal performance. The shock provides several adjustable settings to cater to different riding styles and trail conditions.

Compression and Rebound Damping:

• Compression Damping: This controls the shock’s resistance during compression. Adjusting the compression damping ensures that the shock provides enough support on larger hits while maintaining comfort on smaller bumps. The Super Deluxe Coil Select offers an external compression adjustment knob that lets you fine-tune the compression to suit your preferences.
• Rebound Damping: This controls the rate at which the shock extends after compression. If the shock extends too quickly, it can cause instability or “bucking” on rough terrain. Adjusting the rebound damping ensures that the shock returns to its original position at a controlled speed, enhancing the overall smoothness of your ride.

Air Pressure (if applicable):

The Super Deluxe Coil Select has a specific air chamber, which can be adjusted to manage sag and bottom-out resistance. Ensuring that the correct air pressure is set helps achieve the right balance between comfort and control.

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

Even the best suspension systems can experience setup issues from time to time. Here are some common problems and their solutions when dealing with the Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock.

1. Excessive Bottoming Out:

• Cause: If the shock bottoms out during aggressive riding, the spring rate might be too soft for your weight.
• Solution: Increase the preload on the coil spring or switch to a stiffer spring with a higher spring rate. Additionally, check if the air chamber pressure is within the recommended range.

2. Lack of Rebound Control:

• Cause: The rebound damping might be too fast, leading to a bouncy ride.
• Solution: Adjust the rebound knob to slow down the return stroke. Make small adjustments to avoid over-tightening, which can cause sluggish suspension performance.

3. Sag Issues:

• Cause: Incorrect sag setting, either too much or too little, can affect suspension performance.
• Solution: Recheck the sag using your body weight and make sure it’s within the recommended 25-30% of the shock’s travel.

4. Unusual Noises:

• Cause: If you hear creaking or unusual noises, it could be from improperly torqued bolts or lack of lubrication on pivot points.
• Solution: Check all bolts and ensure they are torqued correctly. Apply grease or anti-seize compound to threaded areas to reduce friction.

Customization and Optimization

The Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock offers multiple ways to enhance performance based on riding style and terrain. By adjusting key settings and considering component compatibility, you can fully optimize this shock for a variety of conditions.

Coil Spring Customization:

The Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock allows you to swap out coil springs for different spring rates. A stiffer coil spring is suitable for riders who want more control on downhill runs or heavier riders, while a softer spring will provide a more comfortable ride for lighter riders. Customizing the spring rate can improve the shock’s performance on specific types of terrain.

Volume Spacers:

The Super Deluxe Coil Select comes with the option to install volume spacers in the air chamber to adjust bottom-out resistance. Volume spacers can be added or removed depending on how progressive you want the shock to feel during compression. More spacers provide a more progressive compression curve, which is ideal for riders who want to reduce harsh bottoming out on bigger hits.

Tuning for Terrain:

For more technical terrain, consider adjusting the compression damping to be firmer, providing better control over rocky or root-filled sections. On smoother trails, you can soften the compression damping for a more plush and comfortable ride. Adjusting the rebound damping ensures that the shock returns to its original position without bouncing, providing a stable and controlled ride on various surfaces.

Comparison with Other Rear Shocks

While the Super Deluxe Coil Select is designed to offer robust performance, it’s essential to understand how it compares to other models in the market.

Compared to the Fox DHX2:

• Performance: Both shocks offer a coil spring setup, but the Fox DHX2 is slightly more adjustable, with additional settings for both low-speed and high-speed compression damping. In contrast, the Super Deluxe Coil Select offers a simpler and more straightforward setup, making it easier for riders who prefer a no-fuss, high-quality shock.
• Weight: The Super Deluxe Coil Select is slightly lighter than the DHX2, making it an attractive option for riders focused on reducing weight without compromising on performance.
• Price: The Super Deluxe Coil Select is generally more affordable than the Fox DHX2, providing excellent value for money while still offering top-tier performance.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock is designed to be compatible with most modern mountain bike frames, especially those with standard shock mounts. However, it’s essential to verify the following compatibility factors before installation:

• Eye-to-Eye Length: The shock must match the eye-to-eye length and stroke of your frame to ensure proper fitment.
• Frame Clearance: Ensure that the shock’s stroke length and overall size fit within the frame’s clearance limits to avoid rubbing or interference with the bike’s frame or other components.
• Mounting Hardware: Some bike frames require specific mounting hardware for the shock. Make sure the hardware is included or purchase separately if needed.

By understanding the key features, installation, adjustment, and troubleshooting tips, riders can maximize the performance of the Super Deluxe Coil Select rear shock, ensuring a smoother, more responsive ride on a variety of terrains.