Bike Shocks: Buyer's Guide to Top Picks, Prices & Retailers

Rear suspension can be the difference between a controlled descent through rocky terrain and an airborne crash. When your wheels stay planted and your body feels the trail rather than bouncing over it, you carve tighter lines, climb more confidently, and ride longer with less fatigue.

Ever hit a rock at speed and felt your bike buck beneath you? That jolt through your arms isn’t just uncomfortable—it costs traction and control. A well‑tuned rear shock absorbs hits, manages rebound, and keeps you connected to the ground, saving both your ride and your well‑being.

This guide offers a detailed breakdown of rear shocks: we’ll explain what a shock does, compare air, coil, and hybrid designs, outline key specifications and dimensions, spotlight top picks at every budget tier, and show you where to find the best deals. You’ll also learn how to maintain your suspension, understand safety standards, and install and tune your shock with confidence.

By the end, you’ll know exactly which shock fits your riding style, your bike, and your budget. Let’s start by defining the core functions of a bike shock and where it sits on your frame.

Understanding Bike Shocks: Definition & Function

Rear suspension plays a critical role in how your bike handles uneven terrain. While front forks handle the bumps that meet the front wheel, a bike shock sits lower on the frame, absorbing impacts and smoothing out the ride from behind. In this section, we’ll define the basic anatomy of a shock, explain the physics of compression and rebound, and outline the real benefits you’ll feel on the trail.

What Is a Bike Shock?

A bike shock is essentially a sealed cylinder—often an aluminum body—housing a spring mechanism and damping circuitry. On a full‑suspension frame, you’ll find it mounted between the seat tube and the chainstay or linkage. Unlike a front fork, which pivots on the head tube, the rear shock works in concert with the frame’s pivots to control the motion of the rear wheel. Its main job is to absorb energy when you hit obstacles and to control how the wheel returns to its original position.

How Bike Shocks Absorb Impact and Manage Rebound

When you roll over a fist‑sized rock at speed, two things happen inside the shock:

Compression: The spring (air or coil) compresses, and oil is forced through tiny valves or shim stacks. That flow resistance converts kinetic energy into heat, slowing the shaft’s inward movement and preventing the bike from launching skyward.
Rebound: As the spring pushes the shaft back out, oil once again travels through damping circuits—this time to control the return speed. If rebound is too fast, the bike will bounce; too slow, and the wheel won’t track the terrain. Proper rebound tuning ensures the tire stays connected to the ground without unwanted oscillation.

Imagine cresting a root‑studded corner. Without damping, your wheel would leave and re‑contact the ground erratically, costing traction and steering precision. A tuned shock delivers a controlled, predictable response both on impact and release.

Benefits of Rear Suspension for Cyclists

• Improved traction on roots and rocks
• Reduced rider fatigue over long, rough rides
• Enhanced control in technical terrain
• Increased speed potential on descents

Armed with this understanding of what a shock does and how it works, you’re ready to compare different suspension types and find the one that fits your riding style. Up next, we’ll look at air, coil, and hybrid systems, so you can decide which spring medium suits your trails and weight class.

Types of Bike Shocks: Air vs Coil & Hybrid Options

Choosing the right spring medium for your rear shock influences weight, tunability, ride feel, and maintenance demands. Whether you’re chasing podium finishes or weekend trail-time, understanding how air, coil, and hybrid systems differ will help you pick a shock that matches your terrain and riding style. Below is a quick comparison of each type:

Type	Weight	Adjustability	Cost Range	Maintenance
Air	Low	High (PSI, volume tokens)	$$$ – $$$$	Regular seal inspection; air‑can service
Coil	Medium–High	Medium (spring swaps)	$$ – $$$	Spring and fluid checks; occasional rebuild
Hybrid/Elastomer	Low–Medium	Low	$ – $$	Elastomer replacement; minimal fluid service

When matching shock type to terrain and rider weight, consider these guidelines: • Lightweight air shocks shine on cross-country and light‑trail rides, especially for riders under 170 lb who benefit from fine PSI tuning.
• Coil shocks offer a predictable, plush feel under hard braking and big hits—ideal for enduro, downhill, and riders over 170 lb.
• Hybrid or elastomer systems are typically reserved for entry‑level bikes or specialized applications where cost and simplicity outweigh tunability.

Air Shocks: Lightweight and Adjustable

Air shocks replace a steel spring with a pressurized air chamber. Pumping in air at a specific PSI sets your initial spring rate—the higher the pressure, the firmer the feel. Volume spacers or “tokens” inside the air can fine‑tune mid‑stroke support, so you can dial out harsh bottom‑outs without adding weight.

Pros: • Ultra‑lightweight design reduces overall bike mass
• Infinite spring‑rate adjustments via air pressure
• Easy to tweak on the trail with a shock pump

Cons: • Seals can wear faster, leading to leaks if not inspected
• PSI changes with temperature swings—expect minor sag shifts
• May feel abrupt if volume spacers aren’t tuned properly

Coil Shocks: Consistency and Reliability

Coil shocks rely on a steel spring wrapped around the shock body. The linear spring rate delivers a consistent feel throughout the travel, and damping circuits handle impact forces the same way air shocks do. Many riders prefer coil’s buttery small‑bump compliance and predictable rebound under aggressive loads.

Advantages: • Superb small‑bump sensitivity and mid‑stroke support
• Minimal friction and no air‑pressure variability
• Long service intervals—spring tension rarely degrades

Drawbacks: • Heavier than air shocks, adding unsprung mass
• Tuning requires swapping springs to change spring rate
• Bulkier appearance and less practical for frequent adjustments

Hybrid & Elastomer Shocks: Niche and Specialized

Hybrid shocks combine small elastomer blocks or polyurethane inserts with minimal damping circuitry. You’ll often find these on entry‑level full‑suspension frames or specialty bikes where simplicity and cost savings matter most.

Pros: • Very low purchase price—great for budget builds
• Simple design, almost no routine service needed
• Compact package, lighter than some coil units

Cons: • Limited adjustability—spring rate fixed by block hardness
• Higher friction yields less small‑bump sensitivity
• Elastomers can degrade over time, affecting performance

By weighing these pros and cons against your riding priorities—trail type, rider weight, service tolerance—you’ll land on the shock category best suited to your next upgrade. Up next, we’ll dive deeper into key features like damping controls, spring rate, and travel so you can fine‑tune performance down to the last millimeter.

Key Technical Features to Evaluate in Bike Shocks

Choosing the right bike shock means more than just picking air or coil—it’s about the finer details that shape your ride. From how quickly your suspension responds under load to the materials that keep it running smoothly season after season, these technical features determine comfort, control, and reliability on every trail.

Damping Controls: Compression & Rebound Adjustments

Damping controls regulate how fast your shock compresses and rebounds after an impact.

Compression damping slows the shaft’s inward travel. Low‑speed compression tuning tackles gradual inputs like pedaling forces and body movements, while high‑speed compression manages sharp hits from rocks or drops.
Rebound damping governs how quickly the shock returns to its normal position. If rebound is too fast, the bike can feel bouncy; too slow, and you risk packing down the suspension.

Most shocks offer click‑style adjusters, letting you start at the manufacturer’s mid‑point and then tweak 2–3 clicks in either direction until the bike feels balanced: firm enough to resist bottom‑out, yet supple over small bumps.

Spring Rate & Travel: Matching Your Riding Style

A shock’s spring rate—measured in lb/in for coils or tuned via air pressure—is the force needed to compress the spring one inch. Too soft, and you’ll bottom out; too stiff, and you lose traction. Travel, measured in millimeters (mm), is the total allowable movement of the shock shaft.

Recommended travel ranges:
• XC (Cross‑Country): 80–120 mm
• Trail: 120–140 mm
• Enduro/Downhill: 140–170 mm

Pair your ideal travel with a spring rate that sets sag (the percentage of travel used when you sit on the bike) around 25–30%. That sweet spot gives you enough cushion for technical terrain without feeling wallowy on climbs.

Construction & Materials: Shaft, Body, and Seals

Quality materials and finishes extend the life of your shock and keep performance consistent. Look for:

Body material: Anodized aluminum resists corrosion and reduces weight.
Shaft options: Steel shafts are durable, while titanium shafts shave grams and resist flex under heavy loads.
Seals: High‑grade rubber or polyurethane seals prevent oil leaks and block dirt. Better seals translate to less maintenance and smoother action over time.

A well‑built shock with tight tolerances not only seals better but also maintains consistent damping throughout its service life.

Additional Features: Remote Lockout, Piggyback Reservoir, IFP

Beyond the basics, these extras can elevate your ride:

Remote lockout: Allows you to stiffen the shock from the handlebar—ideal for quick transitions between climbing and descending.
Piggyback reservoir: An external chamber that increases oil volume, improving cooling and reducing fade during long, rough descents.
Internal Floating Piston (IFP): Separates oil and air inside the shock, preventing cavitation and maintaining consistent damping under repeated impacts.

While these features add complexity, they can make a noticeable difference in performance, especially for aggressive riders or those logging big elevation gains.

Armed with this technical checklist, you’ll be ready to zero in on a shock that matches your terrain, riding style, and service preferences. Next, we’ll guide you through sizing and fitment so your chosen shock fits your frame like a glove.

Sizing & Fitment: How to Choose the Right Shock Dimensions

Getting the right shock dimensions is crucial for maintaining your bike’s designed geometry and suspension performance. A mismatch in size can lead to poor handling, inadequate travel, or even frame damage. In this section, we’ll walk through how to measure your current shock, review common sizes, and decode the manufacturer’s specification codes so you end up with a perfect fit.

Measuring Eye‑to‑Eye Length and Stroke

To match your new shock to your frame, you need two key measurements in millimeters:

Eye‑to‑eye length
- Lay the shock on a flat surface, fully extended.
- Measure from the center of one mounting eye to the center of the opposite eye.
- Record this as your eye‑to‑eye length (for example, 200 mm).
Stroke length
- Compress the shock fully, then measure the distance the shaft travels between fully extended and fully compressed positions.
- This is your stroke length (for example, 51 mm).

Always double‑check your measurements with the shock installed—frame linkage can introduce slight variations. Record both numbers precisely; manufacturers list shock dimensions using this pair.

Common Shock Sizes & Compatibility Table

Below is a selection of popular eye‑to‑eye and stroke combinations, the types of riding they suit, and a sample product you’ll find on BoyerCycling.com.

Size (eye‑to‑eye × stroke)	Typical Use	Sample Product
165 × 38 mm	XC / Light Trail	Suntour Edge LOR8
184 × 44 mm	XC / Trail	Suntour Edge LOR8
200 × 51 mm	Trail / All‑Mountain	Suntour Edge LOR8
200 × 57 mm	Aggressive Trail	Suntour Voro Coil
205 × 65 mm	Enduro	Suntour Voro Coil

Most cross‑country frames use 165–184 mm eye‑to‑eye shocks, while trail and enduro bikes typically run 200 mm and up. Always consult your frame manufacturer’s spec sheet to ensure compatibility with linkage angles and travel limits.

Interpreting Manufacturer Specifications

When you browse shock spec sheets, you’ll encounter a series of codes and numbers that can be confusing at first:

Size code: Often shown as 200×51 or 205×65—this is your eye‑to‑eye length and stroke in millimeters.
Series/model name: Indicates the platform (e.g., “Edge LOR8” or “Voro Coil”) and hints at intended use and feature set.
Adjuster counts: You may see “14‑click rebound” or “5‑position compression.” This tells you how many incremental steps you can dial in.
Reservoir type: Look for “piggyback” if there’s an external oil chamber, or “internal floating piston (IFP)” for an integrated system.

Tip: Always cross‑check these codes with your frame maker’s specification sheet. If your frame requires a shock no longer than 200 mm eye‑to‑eye with up to 57 mm stroke, don’t substitute a 205 × 65 mm unit—even if it’s in your price range. A proper match ensures full suspension travel without risking overextension or bottom‑out issues.

With accurate measurements and a clear understanding of spec codes, you’re ready to select a shock that fits your bike perfectly and unlocks its intended performance. Up next, we’ll showcase the top rear shocks available at BoyerCycling.com, from budget‑friendly options to high‑end picks.

Featured Bike Shocks: Top Picks at BoyerCycling.com

At BoyerCycling.com, we’ve hand‑picked three standout components to cover every rider’s needs—from featherweight air shocks to robust coil units and essential upgrade springs. Each product is backed by our “outstanding service, exclusive pricing, and industry expertise,” so you can trust that your next bike shock will deliver performance and reliability on every ride.

Best Air Shock for XC/Trail: Suntour Edge LOR8 Rear Bike Air Shock for XC/Trail Bikes

For cross‑country riders and light‑trail enthusiasts seeking minimal weight without sacrificing adjustability, the Suntour Edge LOR8 sets the benchmark in performance air shocks.

• Use case: XC & light trail
• Available sizes: 165 × 38 mm, 184 × 44 mm, 190 × 51 mm, 200 × 51 mm
• Key features: air‑spring design, adjustable rebound damping, tool‑free preload collar
• Price: $999.99 USD
• Product link: Suntour Edge LOR8 Rear Bike Air Shock for XC/Trail Bikes

Best Coil Shock for Trail & All‑Mountain: Suntour Voro Coil MTB Rear Suspension Shock

When the terrain gets rowdy and you need consistent support through rock gardens and big hits, the Suntour Voro Coil delivers plush compliance and robust damping performance.

• Use case: aggressive trail, enduro
• Available sizes: 185 × 55 mm, 200 × 57 mm, 205 × 65 mm, 210 × 55 mm, 216 × 63 mm, 230 × 65 mm
• Key features: low‑speed compression & rebound adjust, piggyback reservoir for improved oil cooling, Internal Floating Piston (IFP) to prevent cavitation
• Price: $399.99 USD
• Product link: Suntour Voro Coil MTB Rear Suspension Shock

Best Upgrade Spring: Suntour Coil Spring for Voro MTB Rear Suspension Shocks

Fine‑tune your coil shock’s spring rate to match rider weight and riding style without replacing the entire shock body. These springs keep your suspension dialed in.

• Purpose: adjust spring rate for rider weight/style
• Spring rates available: 350, 400, 450, 500, 550 lb/in
• Length options: 2.25″–2.75″ to fit a variety of shock sizes
• Price: $99.95 USD
• Product link: Suntour Coil Spring for Voro MTB Rear Suspension Shocks

Why Choose BoyerCycling.com for Your Shock Purchase

• Outstanding service and industry expertise to guide your decision
• Exclusive pricing, bundled promotions, and seasonal deals (don’t forget the free socks with your college‑logo cycling jersey!)
• Wide selection of bike shocks, springs, tools, and complementary components—all in one place
• Fast shipping, hassle‑free returns, and dedicated customer support to keep you rolling

Price Ranges & Best Value Picks at Different Budgets

When it comes to upgrading your suspension, knowing what to expect at each price bracket helps you make an informed choice. Here’s how features and performance scale from budget setups to high‑end units, along with our top value picks at each level.

Budget Options (Under $200)

For riders on a tight budget or those just getting into suspension, sub‑$200 options typically include entry‑level coil springs and basic shocks. You’ll get reliable spring action and minimal service requirements, but expect limited damping adjustability and heavier components.

• Typical features: fixed‑rate coil springs, simple damping, basic bushings
• Use case: casual trail riding, beginners, bikepacking on smoother terrain
• Example: Suntour Coil Spring for Voro MTB Rear Suspension Shocks ($99.95)

Caveat: These setups won’t offer click‑style rebound or compression tuning, so fine‑tuning your ride feel is limited. However, they’re a solid entry point if you’re budget‑conscious.

Mid-Range Picks ($200–$500)

Stepping into the $200–$500 range unlocks adjustable damping controls and improved materials. You’ll find piggyback reservoirs for better heat management, Internal Floating Pistons to reduce cavitation, and lighter bodies for reduced unsprung weight.

• Key features: multi‑click rebound and compression adjustment, piggyback or IFP, anodized aluminum body
• Use case: intermediate to advanced trail riding, enduro practice, frequent weekend laps
• Example: Suntour Voro Coil MTB Rear Suspension Shock ($399.99)

These shocks strike a strong balance between price and performance, making them ideal for serious trail riders who demand tunability without breaking the bank.

High-End Shocks ($500 and Above)

At the top tier, you’re paying for premium materials, advanced valving systems, and weight savings. High-end shocks often feature carbon or titanium components, custom shim stacks, and seamless remote lockout integration—perfect for racers and weight‑savvy riders.

• Premium offerings: low‑friction coatings, precision‑machined internals, extensive adjustability
• Use case: cross‑country racing, elite‑level enduro, ultralight builds
• Example: Suntour Edge LOR8 Rear Bike Air Shock for XC/Trail Bikes ($999.99)

Investing in this bracket means fewer compromises: expect top‑notch heat dissipation, consistent damping throughout long descents, and feather‑light weight.

Value Considerations: Warranty, Service, & Brand Support

Beyond price and performance, consider these factors to maximize your investment:
• Warranty length and coverage—compare two‑year vs. lifetime options
• Availability of replacement parts and ease of DIY service
• Manufacturer and retailer customer support responsiveness

A slightly pricier shock with a longer warranty and strong service network can save you money and downtime over the long haul. Always weigh these soft costs alongside the upfront price.

With this breakdown, you can zero in on the shock that best balances cost, performance, and support for your riding style and your wallet.

Where to Buy Your Bike Shock: Top Retailers Compared

Choosing the right retailer goes beyond headline pricing. Availability of specific models, shipping speed, return policies, and technical support all factor into your buying experience. Here’s how the leading bike shock outlets stack up so you can pick the best fit for your next upgrade.

BoyerCycling.com Suspension & Shocks Collection

BoyerCycling.com offers a curated selection of rear shocks, forks, springs, and tuning accessories. We specialize in SunTour air and coil models, complemented by premium tools and upgrade parts.

Pros: • Exclusive pricing, seasonal deals, and bundle promotions (like free socks with jersey purchases)
• Fast domestic shipping and hassle‑free returns
• In‑house experts ready to advise on fitment, tuning, and installation

Cons: • Focused inventory on select brands may not include every boutique or pro‑level shock

Browse our Suspension & Shocks Collection for the full lineup.

Jenson USA

Jenson USA carries a wide array of shocks from Fox, RockShox, Marzocchi, DVO, and more, making it a one‑stop shop for major suspension brands.

Pros: • Extensive selection of top‑tier models
• Free shipping on orders over $75
• 30‑day return window on most items

Cons: • Customer service wait times can be longer during peak season
• Returns require a restocking fee on some sale‑priced items

Explore rear shocks at Jenson USA.

The Lost Co

The Lost Co focuses exclusively on rear shocks and spare parts, with deep inventories for brands like Fox, Öhlins, and RockShox.

Pros: • Specialist knowledge and parts availability for hard‑to‑find rebuild kits
• Technical support from factory‑trained technicians
• Worldwide shipping with expedited options

Cons: • Limited selection of new shock units; emphasis on rebuilds and parts
• Shipping costs can be higher for bulkier items

Check out their offerings at The Lost Co.

RideFox Official Shop

The RideFox official shop is your direct source for Fox FLOAT and DHX shock lines, offering the latest tech and factory warranties.

Pros: • Direct manufacturer support and genuine parts
• Access to new model releases and limited‑edition finishes
• In‑depth setup guides and tuning advice

Cons: • Premium pricing with fewer entry‑level options
• International shipping rates vary by region

Browse Fox shocks at RideFox.

Öhlins Official Store

Öhlins brings decades of racing suspension expertise to mountain bikes, featuring TTX and STX technologies.

Pros: • Race‑proven damping systems used in MotoGP and F1
• Robust OEM partnerships and high‑end aftermarket support
• Detailed technical resources and downloadable manuals

Cons: • Higher price points reflect premium components
• Selection limited to Öhlins‑branded products

Discover Öhlins rear shocks at the Öhlins Official Store.

Bicycle Warehouse

Bicycle Warehouse curates both suspension forks and shocks with an eye for deals and seasonal sales.

Pros: • Competitive pricing and frequent promotions
• Option for in‑store pickup at select locations
• User‑friendly site navigation and part search

Cons: • Smaller shock-specific inventory compared to specialized shops
• Return policies vary by state location

Explore their collection at Bicycle Warehouse.

Noleen Mountain Bike Shocks

Noleen’s direct‑to‑consumer model keeps its lineup of rear shocks and rebuild kits in stock and competitively priced.

Pros: • Reliable supply chain for Noleen‑brand shocks and parts
• Transparent pricing with no middle‑man markup
• Responsive customer service team

Cons: • Limited to the Noleen product line
• Fewer high‑end or boutique shock options

Browse Noleen’s catalog at Noleen Mountain Bike Shocks.

Each of these retailers brings something unique to the table—whether it’s our specialized service at BoyerCycling.com, the broad brand coverage at Jenson USA, or the factory-direct resources at RideFox and Öhlins. Armed with this comparison, you can choose the shop that aligns with your priorities: price, selection, or expert support.

Maintaining Your Bike Suspension: Service Intervals & Care

A well‑maintained shock not only feels better on the trail but also lasts longer and protects your frame from unnecessary strain. Neglecting regular service can lead to degraded damping performance, seal leaks, or even catastrophic failure in extreme cases. Establishing a maintenance routine ensures your bike reacts predictably every time you roll out the door.

Manufacturer‑Recommended Service Schedules

Manufacturers publish service intervals based on both hours of riding and elapsed time. Sticking to these guidelines keeps your internals clean, seals healthy, and damping consistent.

• Fox: Perform a lower‑leg service every 30 hours of ride time, and schedule a full damper rebuild (including oil and seal replacement) every 100 hours or at least once per year.
• RockShox: Service the lowers or air can every 50 hours, and complete a full damper overhaul every 100–200 hours, depending on your riding conditions.

For a comprehensive overview of suspension servicing intervals, check out the detailed guide on Singletracks.

Cleaning & Lubrication Tips

A quick post‑ride routine goes a long way in preventing premature wear. After every outing:

Wipe down stanchions and seals with a clean, lint‑free rag to remove dirt and grit.
Apply a thin coat of suspension‑specific lubricant around the seal area. This helps repel water and keeps the rubber supple.
Inspect seals for cuts, nicks, or oil residue—signs that it’s time for service. A small nick in a seal can let in contaminants that accelerate wear.

Regular, simple care between services prolongs seal life and keeps your damping action smooth, ride after ride.

When to Seek Professional Servicing

Even the most diligent DIYer will hit a point where professional attention pays off. Schedule a shop tune if you notice:

• Visible oil around seals or on the shock body.
• Inconsistent damping—such as sudden harshness or a “spongy” feel at one end of the travel.
• Unusual noises: clicking, grinding, or air chirps during compression and rebound.

For riders logging big miles or tackling enduro races, an annual pro‑level service ensures every shim stack and seal is inspected, replaced, and reassembled to factory standards. That small investment in workshop time can save you from a mid‑ride failure on the nastiest lines.

DIY Maintenance Checklist

If you’re comfortable turning wrenches, keep this toolkit on hand for basic shock servicing:

• Shock pump with accurate pressure gauge
• Suspension grease or seal‑specific lubricant
• Seal‑pick or flat blade for old seal removal
• Hex‑key set and torque wrench sized for mounting hardware
• Replacement o‑rings, foam rings, and air can seal kit (per manufacturer spec)

Basic steps you can handle at home:

Remove the shock and clean the body and stanchion.
Service the lower legs or air can: swap seals and foam rings, top off with fresh oil.
Inspect the shaft for scratches or pitting; address minor nicks with a polish kit or seek pro help for deeper damage.
Reassemble, torque mounting hardware to spec, and re‑set sag and damping before your next ride.

With this maintenance plan, your suspension will stay dialed, responsive, and ready for any trail challenge.

Safety Standards & Compliance: What You Need to Know

When you invest in a high-quality bike shock, you’re also relying on its structural integrity to handle everything from rock gardens to high-speed drops. In the United States, suspensions fall under specific safety standards designed to protect riders and ensure components meet minimum strength and durability requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the regulations that cover your shock, how manufacturers prove compliance, and what to watch for when you’re shopping.

Overview of CPSC Bicycle Safety Regulations

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) enforces federal rules under 16 CFR Part 1512, which spell out mechanical strength and structural integrity requirements for bicycles and key components. Although the regulation calls out frames and forks by name, suspension makers typically apply the same test protocols to rear shocks to demonstrate they can withstand tensile, shear, and impact forces. Compliance with CPSC standards is non-negotiable for any bike part sold in the U.S.

Component Testing Requirements for Shocks

Before a shock ever ships, it usually goes through a battery of lab tests, including: • Impact resistance: dropping or striking the shock at defined energy levels to mimic rock strikes and crashes
• Fatigue and cycle testing: compressing and rebounding the unit for tens of thousands of cycles to simulate long-term use
• Corrosion and environmental tests: subjecting seals and internals to salt spray, humidity, and temperature extremes

Manufacturers keep detailed records of these procedures and often supply summary reports or certificates outlining the test parameters and outcomes.

Manufacturer Compliance & Consumer Assurance

Top suspension brands certify compliance prior to market release. You’ll often spot a line like “Tested to CPSC 16 CFR 1512 mechanical strength requirements” on product pages or in user manuals. If that claim isn’t readily available, reach out to customer support or download the technical documentation. Verified compliance not only means you’re riding a safer product but also that the brand backs it with solid warranties and service.

Interpreting Safety Labels & Certifications

Beyond CPSC, many premium shocks carry international marks that indicate rigorous quality standards: • ISO 4210: Specifies safety, testing, and performance requirements for bicycle frames and forks—and by extension, often applied to suspensions
• EN 14766: European mountain bike standard covering fatigue and durability testing
• Brand-specific labels: Terms like “Dyno tested” or “Race proven” suggest in-house validation that exceeds baseline rules

On packaging or spec sheets, look for these acronyms alongside logos or QR codes linking to full test reports. When you spot clear references to both U.S. and global standards, you can buy with confidence, knowing your new shock passed independent scrutiny.

Installing & Setting Up Your Bike Shock: Step‑by‑Step Guide

Installing and dialing in your new rear shock can feel intimidating, but with the right tools and a methodical approach, you’ll have your suspension performing exactly as designed. In the following steps, we’ll cover workspace prep, hardware installation, sag setup, and initial damping so you can get back on the trail with confidence.

Tools & Workspace Preparation

Before you start, gather these essentials:

1 bike stand or workstand to hold your frame securely
1 torque wrench (with the correct bits) for mounting hardware
1 suspension‑specific shock pump with accurate gauge
Suspension grease or seal‑safe lubricant
Clean, lint‑free rags and isopropyl alcohol for degreasing
Allen keys and socket set sized to your shock’s mount bolts

Choose a well‑lit area and clear enough space to move around the bike without knocking into anything. A clean environment prevents grit from contaminating seals and ensures you can see torque markers and O‑rings clearly.

Installing the Shock: Torque Specs & Alignment

Clean the mounting points on your frame and shock eyes with isopropyl alcohol. Remove any old grease or debris.
Apply a thin coat of suspension grease to the bushings or mounting hardware to minimize friction and prevent creaking.
Position the shock eye‑to‑eye in the frame’s linkage, ensuring the shaft is on the correct side (manufacturer instructions will specify).
Insert the mounting bolts by hand, making sure the shock pivots freely without binding.
Torque each bolt to the shock maker’s specification (typically between 8–14 Nm). Use a calibrated torque wrench and follow a cross‐sequence if your linkage has multiple pivot points.
Double‑check alignment by cycling the linkage through full travel. The shock should move smoothly without side loading or rubbing.

Proper torque and alignment protect your frame’s bearings and keep the shock seals happy.

Setting Sag: Calculations & Examples

Sag—the amount your shock compresses under rider weight—sets the foundation for good suspension performance. Aim for 25–30% of total travel.

Wear your usual riding kit (backpack, hydration pack, tools) to simulate on‑trail weight.
Stand over your bike on level ground in your riding position (hands on grips, feet on pedals).
Measure fully extended: use a zip‑tie or rubber O‑ring on the shock shaft, then cycle the suspension to settle.
Measure sag: sit on the bike again and note how far the zip‑tie/O‑ring moved inward.
Calculate percentage:
Sag (mm) ÷ Travel (mm) × 100
For example, a 200 mm travel shock with 50 mm sag yields (50 ÷ 200 × 100 = 25%).
Adjust air pressure or change spring rate until you hit the 25–30% range. If your sag is too shallow, reduce pressure; if it’s too deep, increase pressure or use volume tokens (air shocks) or a stiffer coil.

Initial Damping & Pressure Settings

With sag dialed, set your rebound and compression to the manufacturer’s recommended mid‑points:

Rebound: Start at the mid‑position (e.g., 10 clicks from fully closed).
Compression: If available, begin at 3–5 clicks from the firmest setting.

Next, fine‑tune air pressure (air shocks) or preload (coil shocks):

Pump in or let out air in 5 psi increments, aiming to maintain sag as you tweak pressure.
Test ride a short loop, paying attention to how the shock responds on small bumps (rebound) and big hits (compression).
Adjust rebound: if the bike bounces back too quickly, add clicks (firmer); if it feels wallowy, back off a few clicks (faster).
Adjust compression: for harsh bottom‑outs, increase compression; for a harsh, chattery feel, soften compression.

Record your starting settings so you can track changes ride to ride. With sag and damping in the ballpark, your shock is ready for real‑world terrain—now it’s time to refine on the trail and enjoy smoother, faster rides.

Fine‑Tuning & Performance Optimization

Getting your shock close to factory specs is only half the battle. The real magic happens when you tailor rebound, compression, and lockout settings to the trails you ride most. This section walks through on‑terrain tweaks, advanced damping adjustments, and remote‑lever tricks so you can squeeze every ounce of performance out of your suspension.

Adjusting Rebound & Compression for Terrain

Every trail has its own personality—choppy root sections demand a different setup than big‑air jumps. To adapt:

Rough, technical trails: Soften rebound by backing out 2–4 clicks from your baseline. This lets the shock return more quickly after hits, keeping the wheel glued to uneven ground. If the bike still feels jittery, lighten low‑speed compression by 1–2 clicks to increase small‑bump sensitivity.
Fast lines and jumps: Firm up high‑speed compression by adding 2–3 clicks to resist harsh bottom‑outs on landings. Increase rebound damping by 1–2 clicks to control wheel tuck after big impacts.

Always change one setting at a time, then lap a feature you know well. That way you can isolate the effect of each tweak and avoid chasing ghosts.

Advanced Tuning Techniques: High‑Speed vs Low‑Speed Damping

Most shocks separate damping into low‑speed and high‑speed circuits:

Low‑speed damping handles gradual inputs—pedal feedback, chassis movement in corners, and rider‑induced shifts. If your bike squats on climbs or wallows in slow, g‑force‑heavy turns, firm up low‑speed compression by a couple of clicks.
High‑speed damping battles sudden impacts—rock strikes, roots, and cliff‑drop connects. When your rear end feels like a pogo stick over chunky rock gardens, lean into firmer high‑speed compression.

A good rule of thumb: if you bottom out too easily on steep hits, adjust high‑speed first. If the bike is slow to settle over berms or pumping rollers, tweak low‑speed. Keep notes and you’ll start to anticipate which dial to target before loading the bike into your car.

Remote Lockout & On‑The‑Fly Adjustments

Remote lockouts let you switch from supple to stiff without stopping. Ideal for punchy climbs or fire roads, a lockout lever can save watts and maintain pedaling efficiency.

Cable‑actuated levers mount on the handlebar and run straight to the shock. They’re reliable and simple to route.
Wireless systems eliminate cables altogether, using a small motor on the shock to toggle lockout.

When climbing, hit the lockout and watch your chainstay flex translate directly into forward momentum. Fisk a quick descent? Flick the lever back, and your suspension snaps into action like you never stiffened it in the first place.

Monitoring Performance: When to Readjust

Even the best setup can drift out of tune as conditions change or components wear. Watch for these red flags:

Frequent bottom‑outs on features you once rode clean.
Excessive bounce after small impacts, indicating too little rebound damping.
Packing down in the travel—sag creeping above 30%.
Unusual noises like a “whoosh” or chirp in the damping circuits.

Keep a simple log—date, trail name, ambient temperature, starting pressures, and click counts. Jot down how each run felt. Over time, you’ll build a personal library of setups that work in cold, muddy springs runs or dust‑dry high‑temps. That intel becomes gold when you’re chasing a PR or trying to dial in a new bike.

With these fine‑tuning tactics in your toolbox, you’ll be able to adapt your suspension on the fly and extract peak performance from every descent, climb, and trail feature. Ready to put it all together? Let’s wrap up and point you toward the best place to buy your next shock.

Ready to Upgrade Your Ride?

You’ve learned how shocks absorb impacts, compared air and coil systems, decoded key specs, measured for the perfect fit, and fine‑tuned damping for every trail. From choosing the right spring medium to installing, maintaining, and optimizing your suspension, you now have all the tools to elevate your ride.

Head to BoyerCycling.com to access: • A comprehensive lineup of rear shocks—air, coil, hybrid, and upgrade springs
• Expert advice on sizing, setup, and on‑trail tuning
• Exclusive pricing, seasonal deals, and our free‑socks promo with select jerseys

Your next adventure deserves the confidence and control that comes with a properly dialed-in shock. Upgrade today at BoyerCycling.com and feel the difference on every trail.