What is sag and how do i set it?

Sev101
Sev101 Posts: 56
edited November 2007 in MTB beginners
Hi guys,

Just bought my first full suspension bike Marin 2006 Rift Zone and have heard more than one person saying about setting the sag and I aint got a clue what they are talking about.

I gather it is something to do with the rear shock set up but after that am lost!!!!

I have a fox float with medium pro pedal on could you help me with what I need to do with the thing please!!

Thanks :D

Comments

  • cjw
    cjw Posts: 1,889
    Sag is for both front and rear. This is a good instruction video http://www.specialized.com/bc/microsite/suspensionsetup/main.html
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  • dirtbiker100
    dirtbiker100 Posts: 1,997
    Did you not get a fox shock manual with the bike? if not,
    http://www.foxracingshox.com/fox_tech_c ... ock_en.pdf
    theres a link to the appropriate manual which describes how to measure and set the amount of sag.

    Basically, when you sit on your bike the shock should be compressed by 25% of the overall travel. This will help it react correctly to bumps etc. Measuring the length of the shock with and without you on it (need someone to help no doubt) and then adjusting the air presure in the shock to match 25% of the travel. Does that make sense?
  • cjw
    cjw Posts: 1,889
    I've only got a front fork, but found on that I could use a ziptie around the fork to measure the sag. Just put on and slide to the lowest positiion without you on the bike. Sit on and the compression will push the ziptie up. Then hop off and measure the sag. Add or remove air as needed until you get your 25% of travel :)
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  • clanton
    clanton Posts: 1,289
    Can be done as described above but just remember not to bounce as you get on and off the bike.
  • Sev101
    Sev101 Posts: 56
    Hi Guys

    Thanks for all the advice - I did not get manuals cause I bought the bike second hand from e-bay so thanks for the links to the manuals etc

    That makes sense as to how to set and I like the Zip tye idea that works for me!!

    Will give you a shout if I get stuck

    Cheers fellas!
  • dave_hill
    dave_hill Posts: 3,877
    If you check on the respective manufacturer's websites you can usually download copies of the setup and service guides for whichever shock and forks you have. These should usually have step-by-step guides to help you get them set properly.
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  • impished
    impished Posts: 1,092
    The zip-tie lets you see, at the end of a run, if you've maxed your fork too. :shock: :P

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