The ElevenSix Trunnion [paid link] Rear Shock from Push Industries is designed to offer exceptional performance and durability for road bike riders seeking precision in suspension technology. It is widely recognized for its superior ride quality and easy adjustability, making it a go-to choice for both competitive cyclists and weekend riders. This article will delve into the installation, adjustment, maintenance, troubleshooting, and performance optimization of the ElevenSix Trunnion [paid link] Rear Shock, as well as its compatibility with other drivetrain components.
Installation of the ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock
Installing the ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock requires careful attention to detail and specific tools to ensure correct setup and safety. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you with the process:
Tools Required
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- 5mm and 6mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
- Shock pump
- Soft cloth
- Isopropyl alcohol and rag (for cleaning)
Steps for Installation
- Prepare the Frame: Ensure that the rear triangle of your frame is clean. Wipe the shock mounting area using a soft cloth and isopropyl alcohol to remove any dirt or grease.
- Remove the Old Shock: If you’re replacing an existing rear shock, use the 5mm Allen wrench [paid link] to loosen and remove the mounting bolts. Be sure to keep track of any spacers or washers for reinstallation.
- Install the ElevenSix Shock: Align the shock’s trunnion mount with the frame’s shock mount. Insert the mounting bolts and tighten them using a 6mm Allen wrench [paid link]. Make sure the bolts are evenly tightened using a torque wrench [paid link]. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications to avoid damaging the frame or the shock.
- Inflate the Shock: Use a shock pump to adjust the air pressure according to your weight and riding preferences. The ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock offers precise air pressure tuning for optimal performance, ensuring a smooth ride.
- Check for Proper Functionality: After installation, check for any signs of sag or play in the shock mount. Ensure that the shock operates smoothly by compressing and extending it a few times.
Adjusting the ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock
One of the key features of the ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock is its tunability, which allows riders to tailor the shock’s performance to their specific needs. Proper adjustment is essential for getting the best out of your rear shock. Below is a guide to the key adjustments:
Rebound and Compression Adjustments
- Rebound Adjustment: The rebound setting controls how quickly the shock returns to its original position after compression. Turn the rebound knob clockwise to slow the rebound and counterclockwise to speed it up. Start with a moderate setting and fine-tune as needed based on your riding terrain.
- Compression Adjustment: The compression setting determines how much the shock resists compression when it encounters bumps or obstacles. The ElevenSix features separate high and low-speed compression adjustments, allowing for precise tuning.
- Low-Speed Compression: Adjust this for small impacts, such as pedal strikes or minor bumps. Turn the knob clockwise to increase compression, reducing travel for better control.
- High-Speed Compression: Adjust this for large impacts like drops or large rock hits. This setting ensures the shock absorbs the bigger impacts without bottoming out.
Air Pressure Tuning
Adjusting the air pressure based on rider weight is essential to getting the right amount of suspension travel. For trail riding, start with the manufacturer’s recommended air pressure and make small adjustments from there. Higher pressure results in a firmer ride, while lower pressure allows for more suspension travel.
Bottom-Out Resistance
The ElevenSix Trunnion features bottom-out resistance adjustments that help prevent the shock from bottoming out on hard impacts. This is particularly useful in aggressive trail riding or when tackling large drops. Set this according to your riding style and the terrain you frequent.
Maintaining the ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock
Routine maintenance is crucial to keep the ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock in peak [paid link] condition. Over time, suspension components accumulate dirt, grime, and wear from continuous use. Proper maintenance ensures longevity and consistent performance.
Cleaning and Lubing the Shock
- Clean the Shock: After each ride, clean the shock body using a soft cloth and a mild detergent. Pay close attention to the seals to ensure no dirt or debris gets trapped.
- Lubricate the Shock: Apply lubricant to the shock’s shaft and bushings. This reduces friction and prolongs the life of the seals. Use suspension-specific lubricants to avoid damage to the components.
Servicing the Shock
Push Industries recommends servicing the ElevenSix Trunnion rear shock annually or after every 200 hours of riding, whichever comes first. During servicing, the shock undergoes a thorough cleaning, oil replacement, and inspection of key internal components. Regular servicing ensures the shock operates smoothly and avoids any performance issues.
Inspecting for Wear and Tear
Check for visible signs of wear, including oil leaks or worn-out bushings. If you notice any performance degradation, consider sending the shock to Push Industries for a professional service or replacement parts.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
While the ElevenSix Trunnion is known for its reliability, there are some common issues that riders may encounter. Below are solutions for some common problems:
Issue: Shock Bottoms Out Frequently
- Solution: This typically occurs if the high-speed compression setting is too soft. Increase the high-speed compression to provide more resistance for larger impacts. Additionally, check the air pressure to ensure it matches your weight and riding style.
Issue: Rebound Too Fast or Too Slow
- Solution: Adjust the rebound setting to your preference. If the shock rebounds too quickly, turn the knob clockwise to slow it down. If the shock rebounds too slowly, turn it counterclockwise to speed it up. Adjust in small increments until you find a comfortable setting.
Issue: Noisy Shock Performance
- Solution: If you hear any noise coming from the shock, it could indicate that the shock’s seals need maintenance. Clean the shock thoroughly and apply lubricant to the shaft and bushings. If the noise persists, it may require professional inspection.
Customization and Optimization for Better Performance
The ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock offers a variety of customization options to fine-tune your ride based on specific performance preferences. Customizing the suspension can significantly improve comfort, efficiency, and control. Here are a few ways to optimize your shock:
- Adjust Air Pressure for Specific Conditions: If you’re racing on smoother roads, you can increase air pressure for a firmer ride. For more technical trail riding, lower the air pressure to allow for better absorption of bumps and obstacles.
- Tune the Compression and Rebound Settings: Experiment with different compression and rebound settings to match your riding style. For a smoother ride over rough terrain, use a softer compression and slower rebound. For more aggressive riding, use firmer compression and quicker rebound.
- Fine-Tune the Bottom-Out Resistance: Set the bottom-out resistance to ensure the shock doesn’t bottom out during harsh landings. This helps in maintaining comfort and preventing damage to the shock.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
When installing or upgrading the ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock, it is important to consider its compatibility with your bike’s other components. While the shock itself is highly adaptable, certain frame geometries and shock mounts may influence its performance.
The ElevenSix Trunnion is designed to fit most modern frames with trunnion-mount shock mounting. However, it’s essential to verify the shock size and mount compatibility with your specific bike model. Additionally, adjusting the shock’s settings (air pressure, compression, and rebound) will help match its performance with the overall drivetrain setup, ensuring smooth and responsive handling.
Conclusion
The ElevenSix Trunnion Rear Shock from Push Industries stands out as a highly adjustable and reliable suspension solution for road bike enthusiasts. Whether you are installing, maintaining, or troubleshooting the shock, understanding the key features and adjustments ensures optimal performance. Riders trust the ElevenSix Trunnion for its superior customization, ease of use, and durability, making it an excellent choice for those seeking top-tier suspension performance.