The ElevenSix 2021 [paid link] rear shock from Push Industries is a high-performance suspension component designed for aggressive riders and riders who demand precision and customization. However, like any complex piece of equipment, the ElevenSix rear shock can experience certain issues that may affect performance. This guide will help you identify, troubleshoot, and resolve common problems with the ElevenSix 2021 [paid link] rear shock.

Identifying Common Issues with the ElevenSix 2021 Rear Shock

Before diving into troubleshooting steps, it’s essential to understand the symptoms of common issues that can arise with the ElevenSix 2021 rear shock. These can include issues like reduced suspension performance, air or fluid leaks, unusual noises, or difficulty in adjusting settings. By understanding these issues, you can efficiently diagnose and address them.

1. Lack of Rebound Control

Symptoms:
The rear shock feels overly bouncy, or the bike seems to “pop” up after hitting bumps.

Possible Causes:

• Insufficient rebound damping setting.
• Internal shock oil issues, such as viscosity changes due to contamination or degradation.
• Air pressure settings not within the recommended range.

Troubleshooting and Solutions:

• Adjust Rebound Damping: Begin by adjusting the rebound knob on the shock. Turn it clockwise to slow down rebound and counterclockwise to speed it up. Test the setting by compressing the shock and releasing it.
• Check Internal Oil Condition: If rebound adjustments don’t help, there could be an issue with the oil inside the shock. Over time, oil can degrade or become contaminated, leading to poor damping performance. A service may be required to replace or refresh the oil.
• Adjust Air Pressure: Ensure that the air pressure is set correctly based on rider weight. If the air pressure is too low or too high, it can affect rebound performance.

2. Sag Issues (Too Much or Too Little)

Symptoms:
The rear shock either sinks too much under the rider’s weight, or it doesn’t compress enough, leaving the bike feeling harsh on the trails.

Possible Causes:

• Incorrect air pressure or sag setting.
• Shock volume spacers not adjusted for rider weight and riding style.
• Incorrect damping settings that don’t suit the rider’s needs.

Troubleshooting and Solutions:

• Check Air Pressure: The air pressure is a crucial factor in achieving the correct sag. Push Industries recommends setting the air pressure to achieve 25-30% sag based on your riding weight. Use a shock pump to adjust the pressure accordingly.
• Adjust Volume Spacers: If the sag still feels off, consider adjusting the volume spacers inside the shock. These spacers control how progressive the shock’s compression is. More spacers can help reduce bottom-out, while fewer spacers allow for a more linear compression curve.
• Revisit Damping Settings: Make sure that compression and rebound damping are set to match your riding style. Adjusting these settings can help you achieve a more comfortable and responsive feel.

3. Noisy Rear Shock

Symptoms:
Unusual noises like squeaks, clicks, or rattling can come from the shock, especially when it compresses and rebounds.

Possible Causes:

• Lack of lubrication on internal bushings or seals.
• External dirt or debris stuck in the shock or suspension components.
• Loose mounting hardware or frame bolts.

Troubleshooting and Solutions:

• Clean and Lubricate: Inspect the shock for any dirt or debris. Use a clean cloth to wipe down the shock and ensure it’s free of any particles. Apply lubrication to the shock’s bushings, pivots, and seals to prevent friction and squeaking.
• Check Mounting Hardware: Ensure that all bolts and mounting hardware are properly torqued and secure. Loose hardware can cause rattling and affect the performance of the shock. Tighten any loose bolts and recheck after a few rides.
• Service the Shock: If noises persist despite cleaning and tightening, internal components may need to be serviced. This could involve replacing seals, bushings, or lubricating internal parts.

4. Air or Fluid Leaks

Symptoms:
Loss of air pressure, fluid leakage, or visible oil stains around the shock body or its seals.

Possible Causes:

• Damaged seals or o-rings.
• Overheating leading to seal failure.
• Physical damage to the shock body or components.

Troubleshooting and Solutions:

• Inspect Seals and O-rings: Look for visible signs of wear or damage around the shock’s seals. If seals are damaged, they can cause air or fluid to leak out, leading to performance issues.
• Check for Physical Damage: Inspect the shock body for any signs of cracks or damage from impacts or wear. Even minor damage can cause leaks, and a full replacement of the shock may be necessary.
• Perform a Full Service: If you find that seals or internal components are damaged, a full service from a certified Push Industries technician may be necessary to replace the seals, refresh the fluid, and check for internal damage.

5. Poor Compression or Harsh Feel

Symptoms:
The rear shock feels too stiff, doesn’t compress smoothly, or provides a harsh ride, even on small bumps.

Possible Causes:

• Incorrect compression damping setting.
• Too much air pressure in the shock.
• Oil contamination or degradation.

Troubleshooting and Solutions:

• Adjust Compression Damping: If the shock is too stiff, start by adjusting the compression damping to a softer setting. Turn the compression knob counterclockwise to decrease compression resistance and make the shock more responsive.
• Recheck Air Pressure: Too much air pressure can cause the shock to feel overly stiff. Recheck the air pressure and adjust it based on the recommended setting for your weight and riding style.
• Service the Shock: If adjusting the damping and air pressure doesn’t resolve the issue, consider having the shock serviced. Old or contaminated oil can affect compression performance and may require a fluid replacement or shock rebuild.

6. Shock Doesn’t Hold Pressure

Symptoms:
The shock loses air pressure after a short time, even with no visible damage.

Possible Causes:

• Air valve issue or damaged valve core.
• Leaky seals.
• Over-tightening the shock pump or failure of the Schrader valve.

Troubleshooting and Solutions:

• Check the Valve Core: Inspect the valve core for any damage or wear. If the valve core is damaged, replace it to restore proper pressure retention.
• Inspect Seals: Even a slight leak in the shock seals can cause pressure loss. Check for signs of air escaping when the shock is pumped up. If pressure continues to drop, servicing the shock is likely necessary.
• Replace Valve or Seals: If the valve or seals are identified as the cause, they may need to be replaced. This is typically a task for a professional mechanic or Push Industries service center.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting the ElevenSix 2021 rear shock involves understanding the symptoms and diagnosing the root cause of the issue. By adjusting air pressure, damping settings, and ensuring that the shock is properly maintained, you can address most common problems. For more complex issues, servicing the shock with a professional technician may be required to ensure optimal performance. By keeping the rear shock in top condition, you’ll ensure a smooth and responsive ride every time.