Rear shocks and rear frames are components of sophisticated design that
require regular maintenance and care. This has led almost all rear shock
manufacturers to establish service centres where you can have your rear
shock thoroughly checked and overhauled at regular intervals according to
use, e.g. once a year. Be sure to have all bolted connections checked at
regular intervals by your bicycle dealer.
The following routines are essential for rear shock maintenance:
Rear shocks with air springs have to be checked regularly for air pressure,
as the air escapes over time. Make sure the sliding surface of the piston rod
is absolutely clean. Clean the rear shock and rear frame, in particular the
bearings, with water and a soft sponge after every ride . After washing
your bicycle, spray the piston rod of the rear shock and the bearing areas
with a little grease spray or apply a very thin film of hydraulic oil.
Do not use a steam jet or aggressive cleaning agents! Ask your bicycle
dealer for an appropriate lubricant.
Regularly check the rear swing arm for side-to-side play and the bearing of
the rear shock for vertical play.
To check the rear swing arm for play, lift the mountain bike by the saddle
and try to move the rear wheel from side to side. If necessary, ask a helper
to keep the front part of the frame still while you do this.
To check the rear shock for play place the rear wheel gently on the ground
and lift it again a little . Check for any rattling. If you find any play, ask your
bicycle dealer to eliminate it without delay.
Rear shocks are constantly being sprayed with water and dirt
from the rear wheel. Clean them with lots of water after every
ride.
Suspension rear frames and rear shocks are components of so-
phisticated design that require regular maintenance and care.
This has led almost all rear shock manufacturers to establish
service centres where you can have your rear shock thoroughly
checked and overhauled at regular intervals according to use,
e.g. once a year. Be sure to have all bolted connections checked
at regular intervals by your bicycle dealer.
Suspension elements are of sophisticated design. The mainte-
nance routines and above all the disassembly of the suspension
elements are jobs best left to your bicycle dealer. Be sure to
have your rear shock checked by a service centre of the rear
shock manufacturer once a year at least.
a
b
c
d
uneven ground. They can be used on roads and field tracks as well as off-
road. They are, however, not suitable for all mountain, enduro, dirt, downhill
riding or freeriding.
i.e. 75 kilograms. Their shock-absorbing properties can be altered either by
adjusting the initial spring tension and/or by exchanging the springs.
or doing any maintenance work on your rear shock.
If you notice any play, have it reduced by your bicycle dealer.