Suspension systems on bicycles are utilized mostly on downhill racing bicycles in order to save these bicycles from damage due to bumps from the terrain. Setting up the spring rates and the damping settings is vital for a comfortable and safe ride. The settings are highly variable due to different demands of various terrain, and for different body types and weights. It's best if you already have some experience in setting your suspension yourself, but you can also ask for recommendations at your local bicycle shop.
Setting Spring Rate
Step 1
Push the O-ring on your shock shaft all the way up towards the front of your bicycle. Sit on your bicycle in an upright position. Do not bounce. Step off and examine the location of the O-ring.
Step 2
Add or remove air from an air compression suspension using a suspension air pump to adjust the travel distance to between 30 and 40 percent of the total distance of your shock shaft.
Step 3
Replace your spring on a spring suspension with a spring that will set travel distance between 30 to 40 percent. Go to a professional bicycle store for aid in determining the proper spring for your bicycle.
Damping Setup
Step 1
Turn the rebound damper near the front of your suspension to full fast. The nob is marked with arrows and directions for turning it faster or slower.
Step 2
Turn the knob in the direction of slower to slow the speed of return on your shock. Turn the knob in the direction of faster to increase the speed which the shock returns to a neutral position.
Step 3
Adjust the low speed compression damping knob near the rear end of your shock. Turn the knob towards higher damping compressions to stiffen the compression of your rear shock. Turn the knob towards less damping compression to make the bicycle easier to compress. Test the compression until you find a setting that is comfortable for you.
Tips and Warnings
- Seek the aid of a bicycle specialist if you are not experienced at adjusting bicycle suspension systems.
Things You'll Need
- Suspension air pump for air compression shock system
- Crescent wrench set (optional)
References
- Web Mountain Bike: Full Suspension Tune Up
- "The Big Blue Book of Bicycle Repair"; C. Calvin Jones; 2008
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