20
I General User Manual
13 Suspension frame and suspension
elements
13.1 Frame with rear suspension
If you wish to ride offroad in a particularly sporty manner
or with a high degree of comfort, you may have opted for a
full-suspension model. In this case, the rear triangle of the
main frame is not rigid; instead it can move and is spring
mounted and damped by a shock absorber.
Full-suspension frame
Different types of suspension elements are used. These
are mainly shock absorbers equipped with a steel spring
or an air chamber whose air is compressed due to the
action of the suspension. In high-quality shock absorbers,
the damping action, that regulates the speed of compres-
sion and rebound, can be adjusted. This task is performed
by a system of oil chambers and ducts.
Although this type of shock absorber offers a higher de-
gree of riding safety and comfort, it requires special han-
dling. This User Manual contains only general information
in this regard. Detailed information and advice is provided
in the instructions from the shock absorber manufacturer
enclosed with the CD and can also be obtained from your
specialist cycle shop.
The website of the relevant suspension element
manufacturer may also prove to be a valuable source
of information. Informative and helpful links are pro-
vided in
Your specialist cycle shop should have adjusted the sus-
pension for you before handing over your new bike. Your
bike and the seat position may look different to what you
are used to, and may also feel different when you are rid-
ing. The spring strut must be tuned so that it has a soft
response, but does not strike through if you ride over an
obstruction. It must give slightly when you sit on your
bike.
13.2 Care and maintenance
You can clean your full-suspension MTB in the usual man-
ner. Hot water with a little washing-up liquid or a gentle
detergent which you can obtain from your specialist cycle
shop are suitable for this.
You should avoid using a high-pressure cleaner to
clean your bike as the cleaning fluid can also enter
sealed bearings due to the high pressure and damage
them beyond repair.
You should carefully wipe down the piston of the shock ab-
sorber and the seal with a soft cloth as part of your regular
bike maintenance. If you spray a little spray oil, e.g. from
Brunox, on the running surface of the shock absorber and
the seal, this increases its performance and service life.
You should regularly check the articulations of the rear
triangle for play. To do this, lift the wheel and try to move
the rear wheel sideways.
You can detect play in the mounting bushes of the shock
absorber by lifting the rear wheel up and setting it back
down quickly. If you sense play or hear a rattling noise,
have your bike checked immediately by a professional
bike workshop.
Your safety depends to a large extent on whether the
suspension elements are securely fastened and are
working correctly. You should therefore regularly look
after and inspect your full-suspension bike.
›
Tighten all screws to the prescribed torque as
otherwise screws could shear off and compo-
nents could come loose or detach altogether (see
).
