Mechanic Tips of the Trade

Suspension Dialed.


Properly dialed front and rear suspensions make a world of difference--and a better-riding bike.

Your suspension is useless if it isn't set right

Having a suspension bike is useless if you're not getting out of it what you should. So before you just hop on and start pedaling, take a moment to set your suspension right. It's easy. Really. Here are the four key measurements that will put the right bounce in your bottom--and take the bottom out of your bounce.

PRELOAD
WHAT IT IS: Setting suspension to match a rider's weight. If your shock or fork's pressure is too low for your weight, you may bottom out on bumps. If it's too high, you'll barely notice that you have any travel; set it just right, and you'll get the most from your suspension. SET IT UP: If you have an air fork or shock, you'll set the preload by pumping air into it with a special pump. Coil-sprung suspension uses controls to compress the spring and set proper pressure. Check the side of the shock or fork, or your owner's manual, for pressure/weight guidelines. It's important to start with a spring that's correct for your weight. Most coil-sprung bikes come with a spring ideal for a 160-190-pound rider.

SAG
WHAT IT IS: The amount your suspension moves when you initially sit your butt on the saddle. You want your sag to match the type of riding you do. For example, an XC rider wants relatively little sag for efficiency, whereas downhillers and freeriders need more sag in order to suck up bigger bumps. Your manual will have a list of suggested settings for your style. SET IT UP: Place a zip-tie on the fork stanchion - the part that travels up and down - and one on the shaft of the shock. Have a buddy support your bike so you can sit on it in a normal riding position - feet on the pedals and with all your weight on the bike. Carefully get off the bike and measure the amount each zip-tie moved from its original spot. This is your sag (typically it will be about one-third of your travel). Adjust it according to your bike's manual.

COMPRESSION
WHAT IT IS: The time it takes for your suspension to slow a downward force. SET IT UP: Starting with the control knob completely open (counterclockwise), you adjust compression by turning the knob clockwise. Turn the knob too much and your suspension will take too long to go through all of its travel. Turn it too little and your suspension will bottom out on small bumps. Experiment to find the sweet spot that best matches your riding style and terrain.

REBOUND
WHAT IT IS: The speed at which the suspension comes back to full travel after it's compressed. SET IT UP: Though rebound is a preference thing, in general you want your suspension to rebound as fast as it can without the shock topping out or feeling too springy. Set it slow and the suspension can't extend back into its travel before you hit the next bump, resulting in a harsh ride. Set it fast and your bike will bounce like a pogo stick. To adjust, use the clearly marked control on your fork or shock.
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