The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate from RockShox is a highly regarded rear shock designed for riders who seek superior performance and customization. It offers exceptional durability, an advanced level of adjustability, and delivers a premium riding experience. This guide covers everything you need to know about installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and optimizing the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock, along with insights into its compatibility with other drivetrain components and its place among similar models.

Installation of the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate Rear Shock

Installing the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate requires precision to ensure the shock performs at its best. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the process:

Tools Required:

• 5mm hex wrench
• Torque wrench [paid link] (with appropriate settings)
• 8mm wrench
• Bushing press tool (if necessary)
• Grease or anti-seize compound

Steps for Installation:

1. Remove the old shock (if applicable): Use a 5mm hex wrench to remove the bolts securing the existing shock to the frame. Be sure to save the hardware for later use.
2. Prepare the frame: Clean the shock mounting points and apply a small amount of grease or anti-seize compound to prevent corrosion and ease future maintenance.
3. Insert the new shock: Carefully align the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate with the frame mounts, ensuring it sits securely. Make sure the shock eyelets are oriented correctly and align with the frame’s mounting points.
4. Tighten the bolts: Use the 5mm hex wrench to tighten the bolts securing the shock to the frame. Use a torque wrench [paid link] to apply the manufacturer-recommended torque settings to avoid over-tightening.
5. Check the shock fitment: Ensure that the shock is positioned correctly and moves freely within its travel range.

Proper installation is critical for optimal performance and safety, so take your time to ensure everything is aligned and torqued correctly.

Adjustment of the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate Rear Shock

The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate features a wide range of adjustments that allow riders to fine-tune the shock to their specific needs. These adjustments include compression, rebound, and preload settings.

Compression Adjustments:

1. High-Speed Compression: This dial controls the shock’s response to fast impacts. Adjust it to stiffen the shock for more aggressive riding or soften it for a more comfortable ride on rough terrain.
2. Low-Speed Compression: This dial affects the shock’s response to slower, sustained compressions. It’s ideal for tuning the shock to handle terrain variations and control bottoming out during hard hits.

Rebound Adjustments:

• Rebound Dial: This adjusts the speed at which the shock returns after compression. Slower rebound is ideal for smoother terrain, while a faster rebound can help you manage bigger impacts more efficiently.

Preload Adjustments:

• Spring Preload: Adjust the preload to set the initial sag. The correct sag ensures proper shock travel and effective performance. You’ll need to adjust the preload to match your weight and riding style.

Fine-Tuning:

• It’s important to experiment with these settings to find a balance that suits your riding conditions. Start by setting the compression and rebound dials to mid-range settings and adjust from there depending on the trail conditions.

Maintenance of the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate Rear Shock

Regular maintenance of the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate will ensure long-lasting performance and efficiency. Below is a detailed guide to help you care for your shock:

Cleaning and Inspection:

• Routine Cleaning: After every ride, clean the shock’s exterior using a soft cloth to remove dirt and debris. Ensure that the shock eyelets and mounting points are free from contaminants.
• Inspection for Leaks: Inspect the shock for any signs of oil leakage or damage to the seals. If you notice any issues, address them immediately to prevent further damage.
• Lubrication: Periodically apply a thin layer of lubricant to the shock’s moving parts to maintain smooth operation.

Servicing:

• Air Can and Coil Spring Maintenance: The coil spring requires periodic maintenance. Inspect the spring for signs of wear and tear, and check the shock’s air can for pressure loss.
• Seal Replacement: Replace seals every 50 hours of riding or as needed, depending on your riding conditions. This helps to maintain the shock’s performance and prevent leaks.

Full Service:

For a full service, RockShox recommends sending the shock to a professional mechanic or service center. This includes a deep cleaning, oil change, and internal inspection to ensure optimal performance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with top-of-the-line components like the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate, problems can arise. Below are some common issues and troubleshooting steps:

1. Shock Bottoming Out

• Cause: If the shock bottoms out too frequently, the compression settings might be too soft, or the spring rate could be too light.
• Solution: Increase the compression settings or switch to a stiffer coil spring to handle more aggressive impacts.

2. Lack of Rebound Control

• Cause: If the shock rebounds too quickly or too slowly, the rebound adjustment might not be set correctly.
• Solution: Fine-tune the rebound adjustment to your desired speed, keeping in mind that too slow or too fast can affect handling.

3. Loss of Pressure

• Cause: A loss of air pressure in the air can or leaking seals can cause the shock to lose its performance.
• Solution: Check for leaks, replace the seals, and re-pressurize the shock to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.

4. Squeaking or Noisy Shock

• Cause: Dirt or debris in the shock or mounting points can cause unwanted noise.
• Solution: Clean the shock and apply lubrication to the mounting points. If the noise persists, check for worn seals.

Customization and Optimization

To get the best performance out of your Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate, consider the following tips for customization and optimization:

• Spring Rate: Choose the right coil spring based on your weight and riding style. A correctly matched spring will provide better support, reduce fatigue, and enhance overall handling.
• Tuning Compression and Rebound: Fine-tuning the compression and rebound settings can significantly affect your ride. Riders who frequently tackle rough terrains may prefer a firmer compression setting and faster rebound, while those focusing on smooth trails might opt for the opposite.
• Sag Setup: Proper sag setup is crucial. Aim for about 30% sag of the shock’s total travel, which ensures that the shock performs efficiently while maintaining comfort.

Comparison with Similar Models

When comparing the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate to other rear shocks in the market, the Fox DHX2 and Öhlins TTX22M are strong competitors, but the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate stands out due to its enhanced adjustability and ease of setup. Here’s a brief comparison:

• Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate: Offers superior high-speed compression control and adjustable rebound, making it an excellent choice for aggressive riders. The shock also provides a customizable spring rate for optimized performance.
• Fox DHX2: Known for its stiffness and control, but it lacks the same range of fine-tuned adjustments available in the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate.
• Öhlins TTX22M: Excellent for smoother rides with highly refined damping, but the Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate excels in terms of its more accessible adjustments and overall ease of use.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Super Deluxe Coil Ultimate is compatible with most modern full-suspension mountain bike frames. However, it’s essential to ensure that the shock’s eyelet dimensions, stroke length, and overall shock size match your bike’s requirements. Compatibility with other drivetrain components such as the fork and front derailleur may also influence the bike’s overall handling, especially when tuning for specific riding styles.