The lightweight air spring has adapted Forks and dampers for mountain bikes. The previous disadvantages compared to suspension components with steel springs have been largely eliminated. But they still exist, the steel spring, especially on enduro and downhill bikes. And there are reasons for this.
The differences between air and steel spring shocks on mountain bikes
Steel: robust & sensitive
They used to be the rule, but today they are the exception rather than the rule. Steel spring shock absorbers are almost only used on enduro and downhill bikes. And even there, there are now models with air suspension that are almost on a par with them in terms of suspension performance. However, the undisputed domain of good steel spring shocks is and remains the Response behaviour. The breakaway torque is lower than with air dampers.
They are also very robust. Because they work with fewer seals, less can break. The steel spring shock absorbers can be adapted to the body weight with interchangeable metal springs of varying hardness. The damper can be fine-tuned via the preload of the spring. There is a simple turning mechanism on the casting of the shock absorber for this purpose. There are also differences in the material: springs made of titanium or super-light steel save some weight.
+ Very sensitive response behaviour
+/- Robust / spring stiffness less individually adjustable
- High weight
Air: light & versatile
When it comes to bike parts, few things are more important than minimising weight. It's no wonder that air shocks have become widely accepted on full-suspension mountain bikes. After all, air weighs next to nothing compared to steel springs. However, air shocks are somewhat more susceptible in extreme use. Brutal impacts and hard landings after jumps are just as hard on the inner workings as they are on the seals. This is why steel spring shocks still have their place on tough enduro and downhill tracks.
Air shocks have the edge when it comes to customisation. The spring stiffness can be adjusted to almost any body weight with one and the same model - simply adjust the air pressure accordingly. Very heavy riders should consider steel spring shocks for reasons of stability and durability. You should ask the manufacturer or dealer whether it makes sense to switch from air to steel (or vice versa) on your own bike.
+ Low weight
+ Very versatile adjustable
- Slightly less sensitive response behaviour
- More susceptible to hard use and jumps
Damper adjustment: apply the right pressure
Shock pumps are indispensable when it comes to adjusting the suspension fork and shock to your own body weight and the terrain. Digital analysis tools from the world of racing also make tuning easier for non-experts.
Analogue pump - the classic
Even in the age of digitalisation, electronic damper pumps are not a must. There is no major difference in function, and the analogue damper pump with pressure gauge also works without electricity. The valve screw on the pump is a recurring topic of discussion among bikers. A quiet hissing sound when unscrewing it signals a loss of air. However, this is air escaping from the pump - a completely normal process. From 20 euros.
Digital damper pump
If you like meticulously accurate displays and often experiment with finely tuned air pressures in the suspension fork and shock, a pump with a digital display is a good choice. It's best to pack a spare battery in your toolbox or rucksack, because without power you'll have to rely purely on the feel of the popometer when tuning. In terms of price, the digital pumps make a much bigger dent in the workshop account. They cost around twice as much as analogue models. The digital Rockshox shock pump shown here is available for around 57.50 euros >> e.g. from Amazon or Maciag Offroad available.
ShockWiz - Digital suspension tuning
This small sensor is based on racing expertise. It is connected to the valve of the fork or damper and communicates with the corresponding smartphone app. It analyses the riding data and suggests adjustments to air pressure, spring stiffness, compression and rebound settings. The little tuning advisor can also be used by non-professionals. Price: 371 euros >> available here.
Conclusion: Analogue or digital - setting the air pressure in the MTB damper
"Electric toothbrushes have long been taken for granted. And electronic tools are also finding their way into the private hobby workshop. However, the classic suspension tuning tool, the analogue damper pump, also works without electricity. In order to optimally utilise the data from digital analysis tools to improve suspension settings, you need to have some specialist knowledge." Max Fuchs, BIKE editor
Max Fuchs
Editor
