REAR SHOCK

[gongmech]

hey ,

Going to be in the market for a rear shock for a dual suss soon. It has to be 6,5" x 38mm. It's going to be for a Xc bike, very much like a scott spark.

 

What suggestions do u have and why?

Considering Fox,Rockshox and manitou.

[Johan Bornman]

Get any high-end shock that can be rebuilt. Some low-end Rox stuff is basically disposable, notably the Ario. The damper cannot be rebuilt and you throw the whole thing away like an old toothbrush. It lasts about as long as a toothbrush too.

Manitou with SPVs (stable platform valves) are nice, as are Fox' RP2.

 

Make sure it has an external piepie that fits a standard pump, for inflating the air cannister. Some shox require a special tool to inflate the cannister. That's just BS.

 

Speaking of springs, you have to decide between spring and air. On short-travel shox like used on rear suspension, an external steel spring is much better than air, albeit apparently only available in certain travel lengths and for special applications.

 

[gongmech]

Thanx Johan, Your advice is always welcome and very informative. When are u doing more shock courses in Cape town?

[Johan Bornman]

Thanks. Maybe in December. Send me an e-mail and I'll let you know when it is scheduled.

 

 I am coming to your part of the world on the 17th and 18th for a General Repair and Maintenance course but decided to skip the shock course this time. I want to go and walk up Platteklip gorge for a change - I will hire a 9mm, don't worry.