The RockShox Deluxe Select+ rear shock is a premium suspension component designed to provide riders with a smooth and efficient ride. However, as with any bike component, issues may arise during use. Understanding common problems and how to troubleshoot them can significantly improve your experience and extend the lifespan of the shock. This guide will address the most frequent issues that riders encounter with the Deluxe Select+ rear shock and offer step-by-step solutions.
Loss of Air Pressure
One of the most common issues with the Deluxe Select+ rear shock is a loss of air pressure. This can lead to a saggy suspension that doesn’t respond well to terrain changes.
Causes:
- Air valve leak: The air valve can sometimes develop leaks due to wear or improper installation.
- Damaged seals: Over time, seals can degrade, causing air to slowly leak out.
- Frequent bottoming out: Riding over rough terrain repeatedly without proper air pressure can cause the shock to lose pressure.
Solution:
- Inspect the air valve: Use a shock pump to check the air pressure. If it’s low, add air according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Check for leaks: Apply soapy water to the air valve and watch for bubbles. If you notice bubbles, the valve may need to be replaced or tightened.
- Replace seals: If the seals are visibly worn or damaged, consider replacing them. For best results, take your shock to a certified RockShox technician for this service.
Excessive Sag or Bottoming Out
If you notice excessive sag or that the shock is bottoming out more frequently, it indicates that the shock is not performing optimally.
Causes:
- Incorrect air pressure: The most common cause of excessive sag is having too little air pressure.
- Incorrect rebound damping settings: If the rebound is set too low, the shock may not recover quickly enough, leading to bottoming out.
- Excessive rider weight: If the rider exceeds the recommended weight limits for the shock, it can cause excessive sag and bottoming out.
Solution:
- Check and adjust air pressure: Use a shock pump to ensure that the air pressure is set according to your weight and riding style. If the pressure is too low, add more air.
- Adjust rebound damping: If the rebound is too slow, adjust the rebound damping to a faster setting to help the shock return more quickly after compression.
- Ensure proper rider weight range: Double-check that your weight is within the shock’s recommended range. If you’re at the higher end of the weight spectrum, consider adding more air to compensate.
Noisy Shock
Unusual noises, such as squeaking, clunking, or knocking, can indicate a problem with the shock. These noises can be distracting and indicate a mechanical issue that needs attention.
Causes:
- Dry shock bushings: Over time, the bushings within the shock can dry out, causing friction and noise.
- Improper shock mounting: If the shock isn’t properly mounted to the frame, it can lead to noises as the shock moves through its travel.
- Internal damage: Noises like knocking may indicate internal damage or air pressure issues.
Solution:
- Lubricate the bushings: Apply a small amount of suspension-specific lubricant to the shock bushings. This will help reduce friction and eliminate squeaks.
- Check the mounting: Ensure that the shock is properly mounted to the frame and that the bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s torque specifications.
- Inspect for internal damage: If the noise persists, it may be necessary to have the shock professionally serviced to inspect for internal damage.
Poor Performance or Lack of Responsiveness
If you notice that your Deluxe Select+ rear shock is not providing a smooth ride or is less responsive than usual, this may be due to several factors related to its settings or internal components.
Causes:
- Incorrect shock settings: If the compression, rebound, or air pressure are not set properly for your riding style or terrain, the shock may not perform optimally.
- Damaged internal components: Over time, the internal components such as the damper or air spring can wear out, leading to decreased performance.
- Contaminated shock oil: Contaminants in the oil can cause the shock to feel sluggish or unresponsive.
Solution:
- Adjust shock settings: Revisit your shock settings. Adjust the compression and rebound to match your riding style and terrain. Ensure that the air pressure is correct.
- Perform a full service: If the shock is still not performing well, it may be time for a full service. This could include replacing worn-out internal components or refreshing the shock oil.
- Check for contamination: If you suspect that dirt or debris has entered the shock, clean the shock and inspect for signs of contamination. If necessary, take it to a professional for cleaning and oil replacement.
Leaking Oil
Oil leakage is another common issue with rear shocks, which can significantly affect performance.
Causes:
- Damaged seals: Worn or damaged seals can cause oil to leak from the shock.
- Impact damage: A heavy impact may cause the shock body to become deformed or damaged, resulting in oil leakage.
- Improper installation: If the shock is not properly assembled or installed, oil may leak from the shock.
Solution:
- Inspect the seals: Check for any visible damage or cracks in the seals. If the seals are damaged, they should be replaced.
- Examine for impact damage: Look for any dents, scratches, or deformations on the shock body. If any damage is found, the shock may need to be replaced.
- Have the shock serviced: If the oil leak is significant or persistent, it’s best to take the shock to a qualified technician for a complete inspection and service.
Inconsistent Lockout
The lockout function on the Deluxe Select+ rear shock allows riders to stiffen the shock for climbing or when riding on smooth terrain. If the lockout is inconsistent or fails to engage, it can affect your ride experience.
Causes:
- Dirty lockout mechanism: Dirt and debris can enter the lockout mechanism, causing it to function poorly or fail entirely.
- Worn lockout valve: Over time, the lockout valve can wear out and lose its ability to effectively engage or disengage.
- Air pressure issues: Insufficient air pressure can prevent the lockout from functioning correctly.
Solution:
- Clean the lockout mechanism: Use a soft cloth and mild solvent to clean the lockout knob and the surrounding area to remove any dirt or debris.
- Inspect the lockout valve: If the lockout is still malfunctioning, the valve may need to be replaced. This can be a more involved repair, so consider having it professionally serviced.
- Check air pressure: Ensure that the air pressure is set correctly. If the shock has lost air, the lockout may not engage properly.
Conclusion
The RockShox Deluxe Select+ rear shock is a high-performance component that requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal function. By addressing common issues such as loss of air pressure, excessive sag, noise, poor performance, oil leaks, and lockout problems, riders can keep their shock working smoothly. Regular inspection, proper adjustment, and timely servicing will help prolong the lifespan of your Deluxe Select+ shock and enhance your overall riding experience.