 Tunability
When the shock compresses in response to a bump, the air volume decreases and the pressure increases. Damping forces are generated from the flow of pressurized air between internal chambers via speed-sensitive valving. Rates of pressure, compression and rebound are tunable.
Air PressureControls the springing and damping characteristics. The manual for the AD shocks contains a chart showing recommended air pressure per rider weight. The chart is a guideline to get you close; you can then fine-tune when you go ride. Reduced air pressure will provide a plusher ride with a greater tendency to bottom out. Increased pressure will give a firmer ride with somewhat quicker rebound. For best results, change pressure settings in 5-psi increments (use the Cane Creek shock pump, pictured here).
Compression Tuning
AD-5
Compression-valve shim fine-tunes the compression range. Different thicknesses available. Thicker = stiffer.
AD-12
You effectively change the stiffness of the compression valve when you turn the compression adjuster. This is very fine-tunable. For a plush ride, back off on the compression adjuster. For a firmer ride, turn the adjuster clockwise.
Volume-Adjustment Plate Setting
Changes shock air volume and spring curve. More volume = more linear spring. Less volume = more progressive spring.
Rebound Tuning
AD-5
Rebound valve bolt's hole affects air flow. Smaller hole = slower rebound damping. Larger hole = quicker rebound damping.
AD-12
You change the size of this orifice when you turn the rebound adjuster. A clockwise turn of the adjuster increases the rebound damping and slows rebound. Backing off on the rebound adjuster moves in the opposite direction: Less rebound damping, quicker rebound.
The proper settings are ultimately up to you and will vary depending on rider weight and aggressiveness, rear suspension design, leverage ratio, and terrain. But even with the AD-12, which enables you to fine-tune the damping before and during a ride, we find that most riders stick with one set of adjustments when they find the one that works best all-around.
Maintenance
Even though it is a low-maintenance design, the AD shock, like other suspension components, requires you to take good care of it. But in our case, the care and feeding of your shock are remarkably low-stress.
Here it goes:
- Maintain proper air pressure—always use the metal cap to prevent long-term valve leakage. Wipe down the shaft and exposed wiper seal after mucky rides. And lubricate the seals after approximately 200 hours of riding (depending on severity of conditions).
- The only tools you'll ever need are a pair of hands and a spanner wrench (and the shock manual, just in case).
- To simplify ongoing maintenance, we offer a line of replacement parts and helpful (but optional) tools, including seal kits and our new piston spanner-head tool and seal-bushing assembly collar.
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