The Öhlins STX22 Coil rear shock is a high-performance suspension component designed to deliver superior damping control and smooth ride quality. However, like any suspension system, the STX22 Coil can face issues that impact its performance. In this guide, we will walk through the common problems riders encounter with the STX22 Coil rear shock, as well as troubleshooting tips, maintenance advice, and guidance on optimizing the shock for better performance.

Installation and Adjustment Overview

Before diving into troubleshooting, it’s important to ensure that the STX22 Coil rear shock is installed and adjusted properly. Incorrect installation or setup can lead to issues that may be mistaken for internal shock problems. Ensure the shock is mounted securely with the appropriate torque values for the mounting hardware. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setup to achieve the correct sag and rebound settings.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting Tips

1. Lack of Rebound Damping or Too Slow Rebound

If you notice that the rear shock doesn’t return to its original position quickly enough or too quickly, the rebound damping may be misadjusted or there could be an internal issue.

Troubleshooting:

• Check the rebound adjustment dial: The rebound speed should be set according to your riding preferences. Adjust the dial to find a middle ground. If the shock returns too quickly, turn the rebound dial clockwise to slow it down. If it’s too slow, turn it counterclockwise to speed it up.
• Inspect the shock for air contamination: Occasionally, air can enter the shock’s oil chamber, affecting damping. To resolve this, a service to remove air and bleed the shock might be necessary.
• Check for oil leaks: If oil leakage is present, the damping function will be compromised. Look for visible oil on the shock body and seals. If leaks are found, the shock will need to be serviced by a professional.

2. No Compression Damping or Too Soft Compression

Compression damping is essential for controlling how the shock reacts under load, such as when landing from a jump or hitting rough terrain. If the shock feels too soft, or if you don’t feel enough resistance when compressing the shock, the compression damping setting may need to be adjusted or there could be an issue inside the shock.

Troubleshooting:

• Check the compression adjustment dial: Adjust the compression settings to achieve the desired level of firmness. Turning the dial clockwise typically increases compression resistance, while counterclockwise decreases it.
• Inspect for oil leakage: Compression damping relies on oil to perform effectively. If the shock is leaking oil, it may not provide the intended resistance. Check for oil spots around the shock, especially near the seals and damper body. A professional rebuild may be necessary if the shock is leaking.
• Check for air chamber issues: If your shock has a separate air chamber, make sure it is properly inflated. Insufficient air pressure can affect compression damping performance.

3. Shock Bottoming Out

Bottoming out occurs when the shock compresses fully under load, causing the frame to hit the ground or bottom out on the shock stroke. This can happen due to incorrect settings or excessive riding force, especially on rough trails or big jumps.

Troubleshooting:

• Adjust the spring rate: If you are bottoming out frequently, the coil spring may be too soft for your weight and riding style. Consider replacing the spring with a stiffer one to prevent bottoming out.
• Increase compression damping: Tightening the compression adjustment can also help mitigate bottoming out. Be sure to adjust it gradually to avoid making the ride too harsh.
• Check the sag: Ensure that your shock has the correct sag based on your rider weight. If you have too much sag, the shock will compress too easily, increasing the likelihood of bottoming out.

4. Shock Sticking or Not Moving Smoothly

If the rear shock feels stiff or sticks during the compression and rebound cycle, this may indicate an issue with the oil or internal components.

Troubleshooting:

• Inspect for dirt or debris: Dirt or debris around the shock body can cause friction and prevent smooth movement. Clean the shock body with a soft cloth and ensure no dirt has penetrated the seals.
• Check the oil level: Low or old oil can cause the shock to lose its smoothness. If the oil is contaminated or the level is low, a rebuild with fresh oil may be necessary.
• Ensure proper lubrication: If the shock was disassembled for maintenance or servicing, ensure the components are properly lubricated during reassembly.

5. Noisy Shock or Squeaking Sounds

Noises such as squeaking, creaking, or knocking can sometimes arise from the STX22 Coil rear shock. While some noise is typical from high-performance shocks, excessive or unusual sounds may indicate an underlying issue.

Troubleshooting:

• Check the shock mounts: Noise can sometimes come from the mounting hardware or frame. Inspect the shock’s mounting bolts to ensure they are tight and properly greased. Loose bolts can cause creaking and squeaking.
• Inspect the coil spring: A dry or poorly lubricated coil spring may produce squeaking sounds. Apply a thin layer of silicone grease to the spring where it contacts the shock to reduce noise.
• Look for damage or cracks: Inspect the shock body and coil for any signs of damage, such as cracks or dents. A damaged shock can create unusual noises when in use and may require professional repair or replacement.

6. Leaking Oil or Air

A common issue with any rear shock is leakage, whether it’s oil from the damper or air from the spring or negative air chamber.

Troubleshooting:

• Inspect seals and O-rings: Over time, seals and O-rings can wear out, leading to leaks. Check the seals carefully, and if damaged, they should be replaced.
• Check the Schrader valve: If your shock uses a Schrader valve to adjust air pressure, make sure it is properly tightened. Air leaks from this valve can compromise shock performance.
• Service the shock: If you discover oil or air leakage that cannot be resolved with basic maintenance, the shock will likely need to be serviced by a professional suspension technician. Regular servicing is crucial to maintain the longevity of your shock.

Optimizing Performance for Better Ride Quality

To get the most out of your STX22 Coil rear shock, consider optimizing its performance to match your specific riding style and preferences.

• Set the correct sag: Proper sag ensures that the shock works within its optimal stroke range. Use the recommended guidelines for your weight to achieve the right amount of sag.
• Fine-tune rebound and compression settings: Experiment with the rebound and compression adjustments to find a setting that matches your terrain and riding style. Faster riders or those tackling aggressive downhill terrain may prefer stiffer compression and faster rebound settings.
• Regular maintenance: Perform regular cleaning and basic maintenance, such as checking for dirt, inspecting seals, and ensuring the shock’s oil level is correct. Over time, servicing your shock will maintain its optimal performance and longevity.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting the Öhlins STX22 Coil rear shock requires attention to detail and an understanding of how each adjustment affects the overall performance. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can address common issues such as lack of rebound damping, no compression damping, shock bottoming out, and noise. Regular maintenance and proper setup will ensure that your rear shock continues to perform at its best, allowing for a smoother, more controlled ride.