The RockShox SIDluxe Select+ rear shock is an advanced, performance-oriented suspension component designed for cross-country and trail riders. Its lightweight construction and responsive damping system make it a popular choice among serious cyclists. However, like all mechanical components, it can encounter issues that may affect its performance. This guide covers common problems with the SIDluxe Select+ rear shock, along with troubleshooting steps to help you resolve them and optimize the shock for a smooth ride.
1. Shock Not Rebounding Properly
If your SIDluxe Select+ is not rebounding correctly, it may be a sign of an issue with the damper or the internal seals.
Possible Causes:
- Incorrect rebound settings: The rebound setting could be too slow or too fast for the terrain you’re riding on.
- Internal damper issues: There might be an issue with the damper fluid or air spring that is affecting the shock’s rebound performance.
- Seal friction: Friction in the internal seals could be causing sluggish rebound.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Adjust the rebound setting: Turn the rebound dial counterclockwise to speed up the rebound or clockwise to slow it down. Make small adjustments and test the rebound after each change.
- Check for air pressure issues: Ensure the shock has the correct air pressure. Over- or under-inflation can negatively affect rebound. Check the recommended air pressure settings for your weight and riding style.
- Inspect for oil leaks: If the shock is leaking oil, it might be due to worn-out seals or damaged O-rings. This could lead to performance degradation. Replace seals if necessary.
- Perform a full service: If adjusting the rebound doesn’t solve the issue, it might be time for a full service to replace the damper fluid or inspect internal components.
2. Excessive Sag
Sag refers to how much the shock compresses under the rider’s weight. Excessive sag can make the bike feel less responsive and result in poor performance.
Possible Causes:
- Incorrect air pressure: The shock may not be inflated to the correct pressure for your weight.
- Worn-out air spring: The air spring could be losing pressure over time due to a slow leak or worn seals.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Adjust air pressure: Use a shock pump to adjust the air pressure in the shock. Ensure the pressure aligns with the recommended settings for your weight and riding style.
- Check for leaks: Inspect the air spring for any visible damage or leaks. If there is a persistent air loss, it may be time to replace the seals or take the shock to a professional for service.
3. Suspension Too Firm or Too Soft
If your SIDluxe Select+ feels too firm or too soft during compression, the problem might be related to the compression damping settings or air pressure.
Possible Causes:
- Incorrect compression settings: The compression dial might be set too firm or too soft for your riding needs.
- Air pressure mismatch: Similar to sag issues, incorrect air pressure can make the shock feel either too stiff or too soft.
- Damper or oil-related issues: The damper oil level could be too low, which may result in inconsistent compression performance.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Adjust compression settings: Start by adjusting the compression settings to find a balance that works for your riding style. The SIDluxe Select+ features low-speed compression adjustments, so make sure the dial is set to your preference.
- Check air pressure: If the shock feels too soft or too firm, adjust the air pressure accordingly. Ensure the air pressure is within the recommended range for your weight and bike type.
- Service the damper: If adjustments do not resolve the issue, a damper service may be required to ensure proper oil levels and functioning.
4. No Suspension Travel or Loss of Travel
If the shock feels like it has no travel or there is a noticeable loss of travel, this could indicate issues with the air spring or internal seals.
Possible Causes:
- Under-inflated shock: Low air pressure in the shock could limit its travel range.
- Damaged or worn seals: If the seals inside the shock are damaged, the suspension can behave erratically or lose travel.
- Excessive air pressure: Over-inflating the shock can restrict its movement, causing it to lose travel.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Check air pressure: Ensure the shock is properly inflated, and adjust according to the recommended pressure for your weight and riding style.
- Inspect for seal damage: Check the shock’s seals for wear or damage. If they are compromised, the seals will need to be replaced to restore proper function.
- Re-calibrate the shock: If the travel is still not functioning properly, it might need a full internal service to check for any mechanical failures.
5. Noise Coming from the Shock
Strange noises such as knocking or squeaking can often be attributed to either external or internal issues with the shock.
Possible Causes:
- Improper installation: If the shock isn’t mounted securely, it can create noise during compression and rebound.
- Lack of lubrication: If the shock’s bushings are dry or improperly lubricated, they can produce squeaking sounds.
- Damaged shock components: Internal components such as the damper or air spring could be faulty, resulting in unusual noises.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Check mounting bolts: Ensure that all bolts securing the shock are tightened to the manufacturer’s torque specifications. Loose bolts can lead to noise during operation.
- Lubricate the shock bushings: Apply appropriate lubrication to the bushings and linkage. Be sure to use the recommended lubricants to avoid damaging the shock components.
- Inspect the shock for internal issues: If noises persist, take the shock apart for a detailed inspection. Consider getting professional help for an internal check-up.
6. Loss of Pedal Efficiency (Bobbing)
If your SIDluxe Select+ rear shock is causing excessive bobbing or loss of efficiency while pedaling, this could affect your ride quality.
Possible Causes:
- Too much air pressure: High air pressure can result in a stiff shock that doesn’t allow for proper compression during pedaling.
- Incorrect compression damping: If the compression setting is too low, the shock might compress too easily, causing unnecessary movement.
- Worn-out seals: Worn seals can lead to inconsistent suspension behavior and loss of pedal efficiency.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Adjust air pressure: Ensure that the shock is inflated correctly for your weight and bike setup. Lowering the air pressure slightly can improve the shock’s ability to compress and rebound under pedaling forces.
- Set the compression damping correctly: Adjust the compression settings so that the shock can still absorb impacts but doesn’t bob excessively while pedaling. Fine-tune this setting until you achieve optimal performance.
- Check for seal issues: Inspect the shock for signs of wear in the seals. If necessary, replace the seals to restore smooth suspension performance.
7. Shock Leaking Air or Oil
A leaking shock can lead to poor performance and eventual failure if not addressed promptly.
Possible Causes:
- Damaged seals: The most common cause of air or oil leakage is worn-out seals.
- Improper installation: If the shock was installed incorrectly, it could result in seal damage and leaks.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Inspect seals for wear: Carefully examine the seals around the shock for any visible damage. Replace any worn or damaged seals.
- Check installation: Make sure the shock is installed properly and that all mounting hardware is secure. If the shock is misaligned, it can cause excessive wear on the seals, leading to leaks.
- Perform a full service: If a leak persists despite seal replacement and proper installation, consider sending the shock for a full service, including an internal inspection and fluid replacement.
Conclusion
The RockShox SIDluxe Select+ is a high-performance rear shock designed for serious cyclists. However, like any mechanical component, it is prone to wear and tear. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can resolve common issues such as poor rebound, excessive sag, and loss of travel, ensuring that your shock performs optimally for your riding needs. Regular maintenance, correct setup, and timely repairs will keep your SIDluxe Select+ functioning at its best.