Upgrading Your Suspension with Super Deluxe Ultimate RCT Rear Shocks

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The RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate RCT Rear Shock is an advanced suspension component designed for riders who demand precision, performance, and durability. Whether you’re looking to improve your ride quality or fine-tune your suspension setup, understanding how to properly install, adjust, and maintain the Super Deluxe Ultimate RCT is crucial. This guide will provide in-depth instructions for everything you need to know, including troubleshooting, customization, and understanding compatibility with other drivetrain components.

Installation of the RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate RCT Rear Shock

Installing the RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate RCT Rear Shock is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to detail to ensure proper functionality and safety. Below are the steps you’ll need to follow for a successful installation.

Tools Required

  • 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • Torque wrench [paid link] (with settings for 200–250 Nm for mounting bolts)
  • Grease or anti-seize compound
  • 15mm socket wrench
  • Ruler or caliper for measuring shock length
  • Bushing press tool (if replacing bushings)
  • Optional: Shock pump for setting air pressure

Installation Steps

  1. Prepare the Bike: Begin by removing the rear wheel and lowering the bike onto a secure work stand to make the shock accessible.
  2. Remove the Existing Shock: Use the 5mm Allen wrench [paid link] to loosen and remove the bolts securing the old shock. If the bushings are worn, replace them with new ones before installing the new shock.
  3. Install the Super Deluxe Ultimate RCT: Align the shock with the mounting points on the frame, ensuring the correct orientation of the shock for optimal performance.
  4. Secure the Shock: Insert and tighten the mounting bolts. Be sure to apply a small amount of grease to the threads to prevent seizing. Use a torque wrench [paid link] to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque (usually around 200–250 Nm).
  5. Check for Proper Travel: After securing the shock, check its position relative to the frame and ensure that it doesn’t obstruct any cables or interfere with the bike’s geometry.
  6. Inflate the Shock: Use a shock pump to adjust the air pressure to the correct setting based on your weight and riding style.

Adjusting the Super Deluxe Ultimate RCT Rear Shock

The Super Deluxe Ultimate RCT Rear Shock is equipped with a variety of adjustments to tailor the suspension’s performance to your specific needs. These include rebound, compression, and air pressure settings.

Rebound Adjustment

The rebound adjuster controls how quickly the shock returns after compression. To set this correctly:

  1. Start by setting the rebound to a mid-range position.
  2. Bounce the bike a few times to check the shock’s reaction.
  3. If the shock feels too fast (bouncing back too quickly), turn the rebound knob clockwise to slow it down.
  4. If the shock feels too slow (not returning quickly enough), turn the rebound knob counterclockwise to speed it up.

Compression Adjustment

Compression controls the shock’s resistance to being compressed by impact forces. The Super Deluxe Ultimate RCT offers both high-speed and low-speed compression adjustments:

  1. Low-Speed Compression: This adjuster affects the suspension’s response to small, slower bumps. Set it to a comfortable level where the bike feels smooth but still absorbs small obstacles effectively.
  2. High-Speed Compression: This controls how the shock handles larger, faster hits. Set this higher for aggressive riding or terrain with big impacts, such as drops or jumps.

Air Pressure Adjustment

The air pressure in the shock should match your weight, riding style, and suspension preferences:

  1. To set the correct air pressure, refer to the RockShox user manual for a pressure chart.
  2. Use the shock pump to increase or decrease pressure as needed.
  3. Check the sag (the amount the shock compresses under your weight). Aim for about 30% sag for optimal performance. Adjust the air pressure accordingly to achieve the correct sag.

Maintenance of the Super Deluxe Ultimate RCT Rear Shock

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Super Deluxe Ultimate RCT Rear Shock, regular maintenance is essential. Here are the key steps for maintaining this high-performance shock.

Cleaning and Inspection

  1. Clean the Shock Regularly: After each ride, clean the shock with a damp cloth to remove dirt, mud, and debris. Ensure the shock body and seals are free of contaminants that could cause wear.
  2. Inspect the Seals: Regularly check the seals for any signs of wear or damage. Replace the seals if you notice any oil leakage or degraded performance.
  3. Lubricate the Shock: Periodically apply lubricant to the shock’s moving parts to prevent friction and ensure smooth operation.

Air Spring Maintenance

  1. Recharging Air Pressure: Air pressure naturally decreases over time. Check and adjust the air pressure regularly, especially before long rides or after the bike has been stored for a while.
  2. Shock Pump Calibration: Ensure your shock pump is properly calibrated to avoid incorrect pressure readings. A miscalibrated pump can lead to under- or over-inflation, which will affect the shock’s performance.

Damper Servicing

Over time, the damper fluid in the shock may degrade. If you notice a decrease in performance or a lack of responsiveness, consider having the damper serviced:

  1. Rebuild the Damper: RockShox recommends a full damper rebuild every 100-150 hours of riding, or whenever you notice a decrease in performance.
  2. Factory Service: For a complete overhaul, send the shock to a certified RockShox service center.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

While the Super Deluxe Ultimate RCT Rear Shock is a high-quality component, you may encounter a few common issues during installation or use. Below are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them.

Problem: Excessive Sag

Cause: Incorrect air pressure or incorrect shock setup.
Solution: Adjust the air pressure to match your weight. Check the sag to ensure it’s within the recommended range (around 30%). If sag is still too much, try adjusting the compression settings.

Problem: Unresponsive Rebound

Cause: The rebound is set too slow, or there is insufficient damping fluid.
Solution: Adjust the rebound dial to a faster setting. If the shock still feels slow, it may require a rebuild or servicing to replace or add damper fluid.

Problem: Leaking Oil

Cause: Worn seals or damaged components.
Solution: Inspect the shock for signs of oil leakage around the seals. If the seals are damaged, replace them with new ones. If the issue persists, it may be time for a damper rebuild or full shock service.

Customization and Optimization

To get the most out of your Super Deluxe Ultimate RCT Rear Shock, you can experiment with different settings based on your riding style. Whether you’re a cross-country racer, trail rider, or all-mountain enthusiast, adjusting your shock settings can significantly improve performance.

Fine-Tuning for Trail Riding

For trail riding, you’ll want a balance between plushness and responsiveness:

  • Set the compression to medium or low to absorb trail chatter without bottoming out on big hits.
  • Rebound should be set to a medium-fast setting to maintain control without feeling too bouncy.

Fine-Tuning for Downhill Riding

For aggressive downhill riding, you’ll want a more controlled and stable shock:

  • Increase the high-speed compression to handle large hits and fast impacts.
  • Set the rebound to a slower setting to prevent the shock from bouncing too quickly during high-speed descents.

Comparison with Similar Models

The Super Deluxe Ultimate RCT is a top-of-the-line option for riders looking for superior suspension performance. It competes with other high-performance shocks like the Fox Float X2 and the Öhlins TTX22M.

  • Fox Float X2: Known for its smooth and progressive feel, the Float X2 is comparable in terms of adjustability but is typically considered a bit more forgiving on smoother trails. The Super Deluxe Ultimate RCT, however, offers slightly more precise tuning, especially for aggressive riders.
  • Öhlins TTX22M: This shock is renowned for its durable design and excellent small-bump sensitivity. The Super Deluxe Ultimate RCT, on the other hand, offers more tuning options for high-speed compression and is slightly lighter.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Super Deluxe Ultimate RCT Rear Shock is designed to be compatible with a wide range of mountain bike frames and drivetrains. However, it’s important to ensure that your frame supports the shock’s eye-to-eye length and stroke length. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for your frame to ensure a perfect fit.

Additionally, because the shock uses a separate air spring and damper, it works well with a variety of drivetrains, including SRAM, Shimano, and others. For the best performance, ensure that your suspension is tuned in conjunction with the rest of your bike’s components, such as the fork, to maintain proper balance and handling.