Why Suspension Setup Matters
Your mountain bike's suspension is one of its most critical components, yet most riders leave the shop with it set to factory defaults and never touch it again. A properly set-up fork and rear shock can transform your riding — improving traction, reducing fatigue, and making technical terrain feel manageable.
Understanding Sag
Sag is the amount your suspension compresses under your body weight alone. It's the starting point for any setup. As a general guide:
- Trail/Enduro bikes: 25–30% sag front and rear
- XC bikes: 20–25% sag
- Downhill bikes: 30–35% sag
To measure sag, suit up in your full riding kit (including pack and helmet), climb on the bike in your normal riding position, and have a friend measure the exposed stanchion or use the rubber O-ring on the fork.
Setting Air Pressure
Use a quality shock pump (never a tyre pump!) to add or release air until you hit your target sag. Add pressure to reduce sag, release to increase it. Remember to bounce the suspension a few times to equalise before measuring.
Rebound Damping
Rebound controls how quickly your suspension extends after compression. Start with the adjuster fully wound in (slowest), then back it out until the wheel follows the ground without kicking back at you. Too fast and the bike bucks; too slow and it packs down on repeated hits.
Compression Damping
Low-speed compression affects feel on smooth trail and pedalling efficiency. High-speed compression controls big hits and drops. Start in the middle of the range and adjust based on feel.
Get a Professional Setup
If all this sounds overwhelming, pop into Limitless Cycles in Ramsey. Our mechanics can set up your suspension properly and talk you through the adjustments so you understand what each dial does. A one-hour setup session can make a dramatic difference to your riding.