Full suspension Patrol Mountain bikes offer a thrilling ride, conquering varied terrains with ease. However, to unlock their true potential, it’s crucial to nail down your suspension settings. One key element in this process is setting up sag, which plays a significant role in optimizing your Patrol Mountain bike’s performance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to correctly set up sag on your full suspension Patrol Mountain Bike.
Understanding Sag:
Sag refers to the amount your suspension compresses under your body weight while sitting on the Patrol Mountain bike in a neutral riding position. Proper sag ensures that your Patrol Mountain bike’s suspension responds optimally to bumps and terrain irregularities, providing a balanced and controlled ride.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools:
Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools:
- A shock pump: Essential for adjusting air pressure in your Patrol Mountain bike’s rear shock.
- A tape measure: To measure sag accurately.
- A friend: Having someone assist you can make the process smoother.
Step 2: Set the Sag:
- Start by wearing your full riding gear, including your helmet, and assume your natural riding position on the Patrol Mountain bike.
- Use the tape measure to measure the distance between the o-ring or rubber band on your Patrol Mountain bike’s suspension shaft and the stanchion seal (for both front and rear shocks).
- Carefully dismount the Patrol Mountain bike, ensuring you don’t alter the suspension position.
- Adjust the air pressure in your Patrol Mountain bike’s rear shock using the shock pump. Refer to your Patrol Mountain bike’s manual or the manufacturer’s recommendations for the appropriate pressure range.
- Re-mount the Patrol Mountain bike and repeat the measurement. Ideally, you’re aiming for a sag percentage within the recommended range. Common sag percentages range from 25% to 30% for the rear shock and 15% to 20% for the front fork.
Step 3: Fine-Tune:
After the initial setup, take your Patrol Mountain bike for a short test ride on a variety of terrains. Pay attention to how the suspension feels and make note of any harsh bottom-outs or excessive bouncing.
If you encounter issues, make small adjustments to the air pressure in your Patrol Mountain bike’s shock to fine-tune the sag. Keep in mind that the ideal sag may vary based on personal preferences, riding style, and the type of terrain you frequently encounter.
Nailing sag setup on your full suspension Patrol Mountain bike is a crucial step towards achieving an optimal riding experience. Regularly check and adjust your sag as needed, especially if you change your riding style, terrain, or components on your Patrol Mountain bike. By taking the time to get your sag dialed in, you’ll enhance your Patrol Mountain bike’s performance, responsiveness, and overall enjoyment on the trails. #Patrolingtheworld!