59
b
c
da
Turning the adjusting knob in the other direction reduces rebound,
making the rear shock rebound faster. Once this is done, adjust the
compression stage. This is to control the rate at which the rear shock
compresses. Adjusting the compression adjuster towards the closed
or maximum position will give you a rmer, less active ride. Take your
mountain bike for a test ride on different kinds of surface (a).
If the rear shock hits the end of its travel (bottom out) several times, you
will need to change its spring rate, i.e. to increase the pressure (b). Make
sure not to exceed the maximum pressure indicated on the rear shock.
If the damping does not suit your needs, in spite of your adjusting, or if in
the case of coil spring elements you need more than three to four turns
for the initial spring tension, you may need to replace the suspension
elements. The replacement is a job best left to a bicycle specialist shop
of your trust.
Do not actuate the lockout function (c) (of the rear shock) when
riding over rough terrain, but only when riding over smooth ter-
rain (roads, smooth tracks).
Do not turn any screws on your rear shock in the vague hope of
adjusting it somehow. You could release the fastening mecha-
nism, thus causing an accident. All manufacturers normally
mark adjustment devices with a scale or “+” and “-“ signs.
Rear shock manufacturers normally include instructions with
their deliveries (d). Read them carefully before changing any
settings or doing any maintenance work on your rear shock.
A too strong damping can result in a sluggish rebound move-
ment with a rear shock that will not recover when exposed to a
quick series of impacts. Risk of accident!
Do not ride your bicycle, if the rear shock reaches bottom out.
This could damage the rear shock itself as well as the frame.
9.3.4 Maintenance.
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 BMW partner.