"Why would I service my suspension? It is working fine."
Your suspension does a lot when you’re riding down that rough trail. To keep it working properly, like most things it needs maintenance. But how often do I need to service my suspension?
Unfortunately, there is no simple answer. Everybody rides differently. Over time the performance degrades, contamination gets in, and parts that aren't supposed to wear out, do. Fortunately, the suspension manufacturers give us guidelines.
Fox and Rockshox recommend "Basic" maintenance and "Full or Advanced" maintenance for both shocks and forks. Basic maintenance can often be performed by the rider. This involves changing the air can oil and seals on a rear shock. The fork is a little more involved, but not bad. Removing the fork lowers and changing the lubrication oil and seals will cover the "Basic" also known as the 50-hour service. This service is going to keep your suspension working great and extend the life of your fork and shock.
We even offer courses that will have you servicing your own suspension in no time. All with the help of our professional in-house suspension service technician. Click Here for more information on our service courses.
What is the difference between the "Basic" and "Advanced" service? The advanced service dives much deeper into the inner workings of your suspension. Fox recommends having this service done every 125 hours or yearly. Whichever comes first. While Rockshox recommends every 100 - 200 hours depending on the model of fork and shock. These intervals can be shortened if the bike is ridden very aggressively or in harsh conditions. For example, it would be a good idea to service your suspension after several weeks bombing the gnarly trails of a bike park. In addition to the procedures found in the basic services, the advanced service includes a full tear down, cleaning, inspection and reassembly of the air spring, adjustment knobs, damper assemblies and damper fluid. Most shops for this service, will send your fork or shock into the manufacturer to have performed. This can take weeks, especially when the manufacturer is backed up. However, we will take care of your Rockshox and Fox service right here in Klamath Falls, and you can talk with the person who is working on your bike.
Having your suspension serviced regularly will help prolong the life on one of the most expensive components of your bike. If you’re curious about working on your own suspension, we highly recommend taking one of our courses to give you the foundation to start servicing your own suspension. Or make an appointment with us to get your suspension in peak condition and ready to hit the trails.
Still have questions? Check in with Aaron, aaron@zachsbikes.com
Or follow along as Rockshox or Fox take you through your suspension step by step.
