5
Thunderbolt Alloy Platform Manual
Basic set-up
BASIC SET-UP
There are several variables that can be manipulated to fine-tune the set-up of your suspension. These are some basic guidelines to get you in the
ballpark, and you should experiment to see what best suits you from there.
The first step is to set your sag. Sag refers to how much the suspension moves under just the weight of the rider (including all riding accessories).
Air pressure or coil preload is adjusted until the desired amount of sag is measured.
Travel
The Thunderbolt can be set up with either 130 mm or 140 mm of travel depending on the shock stroke.
Thunderbolt 140 mm
Shock stroke
50 mm
Shock stroke
55 mm
30%–35% sag
15–17.5 mm
30–35% sag
16.5–19.5 mm
25–30% sag
35–42 mm
Fork travel
140 mm
Thunderbolt 130 mm
25–30% sag
32.5–39 mm
Fork travel
130 mm
Rebound
Rebound adjustment controls how quickly your suspension returns to full extension after it hits a bump. Too much rebound control, and the fork
or shock will move too slowly, sinking deeper and deeper into its travel under repeated hits, which will feel harsh. Too little, and the suspension can
spring back too quickly, causing a loss of traction and control. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for base settings, and experiment to
find your happy place.