Setup – Sag, Air Volume, Dampers
1.
Spring Recommendations
1.
The Smash is optimized for modern air springs with large volume negative chambers, such as the Rockshox Deluxe/Super
Deluxe with Debonair, as well as coil springs
2.
Bottom out resistance can be tuned with air volume spacers independent of sag
2.
Sag Recommendations
1.
Sag numbers are obtained by measuring the suspension travel used to statically support your weight, geared up to ride.
2.
To measure sag, set the damper settings relatively soft, sit on the bike in climbing position, with the seatpost at full height,
naturally weight the handlebars. This method produces the most usable and repeatable measurements.
3.
Lightly bounce up and down to break any seal stiction, return to the seated climbing position and push the fork and shock O-
rings against the shock/fork seals. Lean to the side to dismount without further compressing the suspension.
4.
Measure the shock/fork travel used to support your weight
5.
Front sag recommendation: 20% = 30mm on a 150mm travel fork
6.
Rear sag recommendation: 30% - 35% = 17-20mm measured on The Smash shock shaft
3.
Damper Settings
1.
The spring supports your weight, and should be optimized first
2.
Compression damping then controls dive speed. Insufficient compression damping makes the bike dive too easily under
braking and feel unstable in hard cornering. Excessive compression damping diminishes small bump compliance and makes
the wheel deflect off obstacles.
3.
Rebound damping controls how fast the suspension returns from being compressed. In general, the fastest rebound setting
that doesn’t allow wallowing works best. Rebound damping is a function of spring stiffness, so if spring rate is increased,
rebound damping will need to be proportionally increased as well.
4.
Tuning
1.
Suspension settings are iterative and personal for different terrain and rider weights and riding styles
2.
Baselines are meant to be exactly that. Further tuning is encouraged to refine the ride for you and your terrain. Feel free to
ask us for advice:
