Services
Rear Shock Service
Step-by-Step Process
How to Know Your Rear Shock Needs Servicing
Rear shocks should be serviced every 50 to 100 hours of riding depending on conditions and the manufacturer’s recommendation. Common signs that your shock is due for a service include oil residue on the shaft, a harsh or unpredictable feel through rough terrain, difficulty maintaining sag, or a noticeable drop in small-bump sensitivity.
Ignoring these signs leads to accelerated wear on internal components and, in some cases, complete damper failure. A timely service is always less expensive than a full shock replacement.
Precision Rebuilds for All Major Shock Brands
We service rear shocks from Fox, RockShox, Cane Creek, DVO, Manitou, and other leading manufacturers. Each brand has its own specific oil volumes, seal kits, and torque specifications, and our technicians follow these procedures precisely to ensure your shock performs exactly as the manufacturer intended.
From air shocks to coil shocks, cross-country to enduro, we have the equipment and knowledge to rebuild your rear suspension correctly.
Bike Improve vs Other Bike Shops
Bike Improve
- Brand-specific seal kits and oil volumes used on every rebuild
- Full disassembly including damper and air sleeve servicing
- Shock tuned to rider weight and style after reinstallation
- Bushings inspected and replaced if worn during service
- Coil and air shock servicing available
- Transparent pricing with no surprise add-on charges
Other Bike Shops
- Generic seal kits used regardless of shock model
- Air sleeve cleaning only with no damper work included
- No post-service tuning or sag setup offered
- Bushing wear often overlooked until it causes frame damage
- Limited to air shocks only at many general bike shops
- Additional charges added after the bike is already in the stand
Rider Stories & Reviews
Your Next Ride Deserves Better.
From professional bike fitting to custom builds and suspension servicing, Bike Improve is built around performance, precision, and long-term reliability.
Frequently
Asked Questions
How often should a rear shock be serviced?
Most manufacturers recommend a basic air sleeve service every 50 hours of riding and a full damper rebuild every 100 to 200 hours. If you ride in dusty or wet conditions frequently, servicing on the shorter end of that range will help preserve your shock’s internals and extend its overall lifespan.
What is the difference between an air sleeve service and a full rebuild?
An air sleeve service involves cleaning and re-greasing the air sleeve and replacing the o-rings that seal the air chamber. A full rebuild goes further and includes disassembling and re-oiling the damper, replacing all seals and foam rings, and inspecting internal components for wear. We assess your shock’s condition and recommend the right service level when you bring it in.
Do you service coil shocks as well as air shocks?
Yes. We service both air and coil rear shocks from all major brands. Coil shocks require a different service procedure focused primarily on the damper since there is no air sleeve, and we carry the appropriate tools and fluids to handle both types correctly.
My shock is still under warranty. Can you service it without voiding the warranty?
In many cases, a basic air sleeve service can be performed without affecting the warranty. However, opening the damper for a full rebuild may void the manufacturer warranty on some brands. We recommend reviewing your warranty terms before booking. If you suspect a defect rather than normal wear, we can help you evaluate the issue and advise on whether to pursue a warranty claim instead.