Merlin’s expansive vary of rear suspension could make it troublesome to choose when contemplating a brand new one. Because of this, we’ve created the last word information on selecting the best shock for you.
Dimension
Our first consideration in the case of shocks is sizing. There are two distinct methods wherein you are able to do this with a rear shock: stroke size (measurement of compression) and eyelet to eyelet (complete size of shock). With this, it’s vital to first seek the advice of the rules out of your body manufactufurer to see what the suitable shock dimension is in your bike. Though there’s little room for adjustment on this case, the small modifications that may be made typically lead to fairly noticeable variations. For instance, if the body producer allowed for an over stroke of two.5mm on the rear shock, the rider’s bike would compress way more than with a standard stroke size.
{Hardware}
A shock’s {hardware} is restricted to the body mounting width (proven above). As with shock dimension, your body’s producer could have a set width for a shock primarily based on body’s dimensions. There are two major kinds of shock to contemplate with body mounting, too. Most shocks have {hardware} above them nevertheless, Merlin’s vary additionally contains Trunnion shocks (proven under). These shocks as a substitute bolt on to the body and require a selected mounting system that the producer could have included within the handbook.
Compatibility
Compatibility applies to each dimension and {hardware} in that they’re each depending on the body’s dimensions. {Hardware} and eye to eye size are barely simpler to get proper when discovering the proper shock because it merely received’t match if they’re the unsuitable dimension. Alternatively, an incorrect stroke size can’t all the time be noticed till the bike is ridden. A shock with an excessive amount of over stroke might end result within the body bottoming out or the tire rubbing in opposition to the body beneath compression. For this reason it’s so vital to reference the producer’s steering when selecting a rear shock.
Coil vs Air
The controversy between coil and air shocks in mountain biking has been ongoing since air shocks entered the market. Each have very totally different qualities – however how are you aware which one is finest for you? It is best to take into account each the bike and the paths on this case. Cross nation riders, trailriders and freeriders sometimes favour an air shock for its skill to supply effectivity when pedalling, a really feel for the path and pop when leaping. In comparison with a coil, it has a a lot wider vary of tuning choices making it an ordinary addition on most inventory bikes. As for coil shocks, you’ll be able to normally discover them on downhill and enduro bikes for the larger hits they’re confronted with. This shock can also be significantly better at dealing with the smaller bumps, giving the rider extra supple suggestions in comparison with the air shock.
Able to browse? See our full vary of shocks right here.
