Regular maintenance of the mountain bike is necessary to ensure its continued usefulness. The shocks endure a great deal but only last for a limited duration. When properly maintained, most shocks have a lifespan of 100–200 hours of riding. The intervals between maintenance checks are variable and will be determined by the road conditions.
Mountain Bike Shocks are usually made out of aluminum alloys and steel. They come in different sizes and designs depending on your needs. Mountain bikes use suspension forks that absorb bumps and vibrations while you ride. When you hit a bump, the shock will compress. This causes the suspension fork to move up and down as it absorbs the impact.
As the compression occurs, the air inside the tube moves back and forth between the top and bottom ends, causing the spring to extend and contract. This allows the front wheel to stay at the same height when riding over uneven terrain.
The shock absorber is a very important part of a bike. Shock absorbers dampen vibrations caused by rough roads, uneven surfaces, and impacts against obstacles. They also allow the rider to control the bike’s speed without pedaling too hard. Good quality shocks are designed to last between 5 – 10 years, depending on the environment where they are ridden. It’s good to replace them every year or two.
Shocks on a mountain bike wear out with time, but other factors are at play. The shocks will also react to the rider’s style of riding. A rider who frequently ventures onto more difficult terrain may need to have their shocks serviced more frequently than one who sometimes rides.
How to tell if mountain bike shocks are bad
1) Bumps and impediments have a significant effect on you.
This is so because the shock cannot absorb the shock as it should, making it feel much more intense.
This signifies the shock fluid has thinned out and is no longer effective. New surprises are needed.
2) Your bike isn’t very comfortable to ride.
A new set of shocks should be installed if you find that the ride quality of your bike has diminished over time.
Bike handling suffers when shock fluid becomes too thin due to age or environmental factors.
3) You hear a squeaking or clunking sound when you go over bumps or impediments.
That the shock has worn out to the point where it can no longer absorb shock effectively is another indicator that it needs to be replaced.
Either the wheel will contact the bike’s frame, causing a bouncing effect, or the frame will drop down, also causing a bouncing effect.
4) Your shocks have seen better days.
A set of new bicycle shocks should last for three years with normal use and maintenance.
After four or five years, if you still think they’re in good condition, replace them.
Have your bike serviced and inspect any other potential problem areas.
Don’t delay if you see any of these symptoms. Your riding would benefit from a fresh set of shocks.
How often should you service the mountain bike shocks?
Mountain bikers who often ride over rugged terrain should get their bikes serviced at least three times a year.
If a biker takes an average of how often they ride, that’s when they should take it in for maintenance. You only need to have your mountain bike serviced once a year if you ride it for fewer than three hours per week.
Depending on the severity of your riding circumstances, your mountain bike may need to be serviced twice or three times a year if you ride it more than four to eight times per week on average.
How much does Mountain Bike Shock changing Cost?
A suspension service for your mountain bike will usually cost you between $100 and $250.
The level of wear and tear on your shocks, for example, will significantly impact the price.
By compressing the forks by hand, you may quickly assess the state of the shocks on your mountain bike. A well-oiled suspension will feel smooth and lubricated at all times.
When your shock feels jarring or inflexible, it may be dry and need lubrication. Likewise, when returning to its fully extended position, a shock that seems as though there is extra resistance is a telltale sign that service is needed.
Do Mountain Bike shocks wear out?
The answer is yes. However, with proper maintenance, they have a long lifespan.
Over time, the oil inside a mountain bike’s shock will thin out from heat and lose efficiency, causing the shock to wear out.
The suspension’s ability to absorb shock will diminish over time, causing you to experience increased vibration as you ride.
It’s time to get new shocks as soon as you notice a difference in your riding. But don’t let them get to the point of no return.
If your mountain bike’s shocks are worn out, it could lead to even more severe damage, including the frame.
You may need to replace your bike frame and spend additional money. It’s also not as safe to ride with old shocks.
Do mountain bikes need shocks?
Unless the bicycle has a front or back suspension, it will need a shock of some form.
A shock on a mountain bike is to dampen the impact of drops and jumps, making the trail more rideable.
Unless your bike is equipped with shocks, you will feel every bump in the route. Your physical well-being and your bike’s condition could suffer as a result of this.
Types of Mountain Bike shocks
Shocks for mountain bikes might be one of three main varieties:
- Air Shocks
- Magneto-coil cartridges
- The Oil Shocks
Air Shocks
They function via a cylinder filled with pressurized air and a piston in its center.
On a bicycle, the piston’s upward or downward movement in response to a bump is determined by the amount of force applied to the bike.
Coil-Over Shock Absorbers
This shock absorber model functions similarly to the coil springs found in most vehicles.
The shock fluid works differently by compressing the spring, allowing it to better absorb shocks and bumps on tough roads or trails.
Oil Shocks
These are the “standard” shocks that everyone talks about. Unfortunately, the most common type of mountain bike shock lacks more advanced models’ comfort and performance features.
What kind of shock for a mountain bike do you recommend?
When picking out a mountain bike shock, there are a few factors to consider.
Figure out how much of your weight the shocks need to be able to handle before you buy them.
After that, choose between air- or coil-over cartridge shock.
Although air shocks’ adjustability has advantages, most drivers prefer the feel of coil-over cartridge shocks.
At last, settle on a shock suitable for your weight and riding preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s hard to say exactly how long a mountain bike shock will last. There’s no set amount of time that you’ll know because each rider has their preferences and riding style. However, a stock suspension fork’s average lifespan is between 3-5 years, depending on usage and maintenance practices.
I am Ryan Ford, a mountain biking enthusiast who loves to explore the outdoors. I also like to go on adventures with friends and anything else that involves being outside. I love my bike because it gets me out of the house and gives me an opportunity to enjoy nature.