The ElevenSix Trunnion [paid link] rear shock by Push Industries is a high-performance shock absorber designed for mountain biking enthusiasts seeking optimal suspension performance. Known for its precision and adjustability, it provides smooth rides on even the most demanding terrains. However, like all suspension systems, the ElevenSix Trunnion [paid link] can encounter issues over time that may affect its performance. In this guide, we will cover the common problems you might face with the ElevenSix Trunnion rear shock, troubleshooting steps, and solutions to ensure your bike remains in top shape.
Common ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock Issues
The ElevenSix Trunnion rear shock is a sophisticated piece of technology, and as such, it can experience certain issues due to improper setup, wear, or external factors. The most common issues that cyclists encounter include:
- Shock Fading or Loss of Performance
- Suspension Rebound Problems
- Noisy Shock Performance
- Air Leaks
- Excessive Bottom-Out
- Lack of Support or Bottoming Out during Hard Impacts
Let’s dive into how you can identify and resolve these issues effectively.
Shock Fading or Loss of Performance
Shock fading is a common issue where the rear shock loses its damping performance, making the bike feel less responsive during rides. This can result from inadequate maintenance or extreme usage without proper servicing.
Causes:
- Low oil levels in the shock reservoir
- Internal contamination, such as dirt or debris
- Overheating due to prolonged, aggressive use
Solutions:
- Check oil levels: The first step is to inspect the shock oil. Push Industries recommends regular servicing of the ElevenSix Trunnion to maintain proper oil levels.
- Clean the shock: If internal contamination is the issue, disassemble the shock and carefully clean all components before reassembling.
- Rebuild the shock: If the shock continues to fade despite maintaining proper oil levels and cleanliness, consider a full rebuild or sending it to Push Industries for servicing.
Suspension Rebound Problems
Suspension rebound issues can lead to an uncomfortable ride, causing the shock to either compress too slowly or bounce uncontrollably.
Causes:
- Incorrect rebound setting
- Internal damage to the rebound damper
- Lack of proper maintenance or servicing
Solutions:
- Adjust the rebound: If the rebound setting is incorrect, it may be too fast or too slow. Refer to the owner’s manual for the recommended rebound settings based on rider weight and riding conditions.
- Check for internal damage: If adjusting the rebound doesn’t solve the problem, there may be an issue with the rebound damper. Disassemble the shock to check for damaged seals or components.
- Regular maintenance: Ensure that the shock is serviced regularly, as worn-out seals or components could cause rebound issues.
Noisy Shock Performance
If your ElevenSix Trunnion shock produces abnormal sounds like squeaking, clunking, or grinding, this could indicate several issues ranging from insufficient lubrication to damaged parts.
Causes:
- Lack of lubrication
- Damaged bushings or bearings
- Internal contamination, such as dirt or mud
Solutions:
- Lubricate the shock: Apply the recommended lubricants to the shock’s moving parts to reduce friction and eliminate squeaks.
- Check bushings and bearings: Inspect the shock’s bushings and bearings for any signs of wear or damage. Replace them if necessary to prevent further issues.
- Clean the shock: Clean the shock thoroughly to remove dirt or debris that may have accumulated, particularly around the shock’s seals and bushings.
Air Leaks
Air leaks in the ElevenSix Trunnion shock can result in inconsistent performance and a lack of support. This is a serious issue that should be addressed immediately to prevent further damage.
Causes:
- Damaged seals
- Overinflation or underinflation of the shock’s air chamber
- Improper valve maintenance
Solutions:
- Inspect seals: Check all seals on the shock for any visible signs of wear or damage. If necessary, replace the seals with new ones to ensure a proper air-tight seal.
- Check the air chamber pressure: Ensure the shock’s air chamber is inflated to the correct pressure as specified in the manual. Adjust as necessary.
- Valve maintenance: Clean and maintain the valve to ensure no leakage occurs. If the valve is damaged, replace it to restore the shock’s air-tightness.
Excessive Bottom-Out
If your shock bottoms out frequently, it can cause discomfort during rides and lead to potential damage to your bike’s frame.
Causes:
- Incorrect shock pressure or spring rate
- Lack of volume spacers
- Worn-out shock components
Solutions:
- Adjust shock pressure: Double-check the shock’s air pressure and ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommendations based on your weight and riding conditions. A shock with too low of a pressure will bottom out too easily.
- Add or adjust volume spacers: If bottoming out occurs regularly, adding or adjusting volume spacers can increase the shock’s support. This is particularly effective for aggressive riders or those riding technical terrain.
- Service the shock: If none of the adjustments fix the bottom-out issue, the shock’s internal components might be worn. A full rebuild may be required to restore proper performance.
Lack of Support or Bottoming Out During Hard Impacts
Riders may experience a lack of support or bottoming out during hard impacts, leading to poor bike handling and a less controlled ride.
Causes:
- Incorrect spring rate
- Insufficient air pressure in the shock
- Incorrect damper settings
Solutions:
- Adjust air pressure: Ensure the shock is inflated according to the rider’s weight and riding style. Higher air pressure may be necessary for aggressive riders to prevent bottoming out.
- Tune the damper settings: Adjust the compression and rebound settings to ensure the shock is providing optimal support. Fine-tuning these settings based on riding style and terrain will significantly improve shock performance.
- Consider a custom spring rate: If you’re consistently encountering issues with lack of support, you may need a spring rate adjustment. Push Industries offers custom tuning to tailor the shock to your specific needs.
Conclusion
The ElevenSix Trunnion rear shock by Push Industries is a high-quality suspension component, but like all bike parts, it requires proper maintenance and attention to perform at its best. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can resolve common issues such as shock fading, suspension rebound problems, air leaks, excessive bottom-out, and noise. Regular maintenance and timely servicing will ensure your ElevenSix Trunnion continues to provide excellent performance on every ride.