The Bomber CR Coil [paid link] rear shock from Marzocchi is a popular choice for riders seeking a durable, performance-driven suspension system for their mountain bikes. Designed to provide smooth, controlled damping over rough terrain, this coil shock offers adjustability and reliability. However, like any component, it can face issues that affect its performance. This guide will help you troubleshoot common Bomber CR Coil [paid link] rear shock problems, from basic maintenance to more advanced solutions.
Common Bomber CR Coil Rear Shock Issues
1. Shock Not Rebounding Properly
If the rear shock feels sluggish or fails to rebound after compression, this could be a sign of a few possible issues:
- Damper Oil Leak: Over time, oil can leak from the shock, leading to reduced rebound performance.
- Incorrect Rebound Setting: If the rebound adjuster is set too slow, the shock will not return to its original position properly. Check the setting and adjust it for a faster rebound.
- Contaminated Piston or Damper Shaft: Dirt or debris can interfere with the movement of the damper shaft, causing poor rebound. A thorough cleaning of the damper components may solve the issue.
Troubleshooting:
- Check the rebound dial to ensure it’s not set too slow.
- Inspect the shock for any signs of oil leakage, which may require a seal replacement.
- Clean the piston and damper shaft with a suitable solvent to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Shock Bottoming Out
Bottoming out occurs when the shock compresses too much, reaching the end of its travel. This can be uncomfortable and damaging to the bike’s frame. Common causes of bottoming out include:
- Incorrect Spring Rate: The coil spring may not be stiff enough for the rider’s weight or riding style.
- Too Low Air Pressure (if combined with an air-sprung system): Though the Bomber CR Coil is a coil shock, improper spring setup can still lead to insufficient support.
- Excessive Damping: If the compression damping is set too high, the shock may not provide enough support during rough impacts.
Troubleshooting:
- Evaluate your rider weight and adjust the spring rate if necessary. Consider replacing the coil spring with one that offers more support.
- Check compression damping settings and adjust them to allow for proper shock travel.
- Consider upgrading the spring to a progressive coil for better bottom-out resistance.
3. Sag Issues
Sag refers to how much the shock compresses under the rider’s weight when the bike is at rest. Incorrect sag can drastically affect the shock’s performance.
- Too Much Sag: If the sag is too high, the shock will be too soft, leading to poor control and less effective damping.
- Too Little Sag: If the sag is too low, the shock will feel harsh and fail to absorb bumps efficiently.
Troubleshooting:
- Check the recommended sag percentage for your weight. For most riders, the Bomber CR Coil typically requires about 30-35% of the shock’s total travel.
- Adjust the preload on the coil spring. If the sag is too much, add more preload. If it’s too little, reduce the preload to achieve the correct sag.
4. Excessive Stiction
Stiction occurs when there is excessive friction between the shock’s internal components and the bushings. This can lead to a jerky or harsh ride and is often a result of insufficient lubrication or dirt buildup.
Troubleshooting:
- Clean and lubricate the shock’s seals and bushings.
- Check the condition of the shock’s oil. If the oil has degraded, a full service may be necessary to replace the oil and refresh the internals.
5. Noise from the Shock
Noise, such as a creaking or clicking sound, can be caused by various factors, including:
- Loose Mounting Hardware: The shock might be loose in its mounts, causing it to rattle.
- Dry Bearings: The bearings within the shock eyelets may require lubrication.
- Spring Noise: The coil spring might be rubbing against the shock body or frame, causing unwanted sounds.
Troubleshooting:
- Tighten all mounting bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings.
- Lubricate the shock’s bearings and check for wear or damage.
- Inspect the coil spring for rubbing. If necessary, apply a light coating of grease where the spring contacts the shock body or frame.
6. Shock Losing Performance After a Few Rides
If the Bomber CR Coil shock seems to lose its performance over time, this may be a sign of internal wear, oil degradation, or air contamination.
Troubleshooting:
- Inspect the shock for any external leaks or oil stains that may indicate a seal failure.
- Perform a full service on the shock, including replacing the oil and inspecting the damper for wear or damage.
- Check the spring and damping settings to ensure they are still appropriate for your riding style and weight.
Preventive Maintenance and Regular Care
To minimize the likelihood of these issues, regular maintenance and inspection are essential. Below are a few key tasks to keep your Bomber CR Coil rear shock in top condition:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the shock regularly to prevent dirt and grime from entering the shock body. Use a gentle cleaner and avoid aggressive scrubbing.
- Lubrication: Periodically lubricate the shock’s moving parts, particularly the bushings, and seals.
- Shock Tuning: Adjust the rebound, compression, and preload settings to match your riding conditions and preferences. Fine-tuning these adjustments ensures better performance and ride quality.
Conclusion
The Bomber CR Coil rear shock from Marzocchi is a high-performance component, but like any suspension system, it may face issues over time. By understanding common problems such as poor rebound, bottoming out, sag issues, stiction, and noise, you can troubleshoot and resolve them effectively. Regular maintenance and correct shock setup can prevent these issues, ensuring your bike’s suspension performs at its best on every ride.