How to Adjust a Bicycle Rear Suspension

Bicycle rear suspension, otherwise known as a bicycle's having a "soft tail," is a feature common on most mountain bikes. The purpose of rear suspension is to absorb impact when riding your bicycle over rough terrain. Rear suspension is also important on stunt bicycles for going off ramps and making big jumps.The shock on the rear suspension is adjustable without the use of hand tools. Finding the right suspension ratio for your ride is a process of trial and error.

Things You'll Need

  • Shock pump
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pump up your rear shock with your shock pump to the recommended pressure indicated in the bicycle instruction manual.

    • 2

      Get on your bicycle, applying pressure to the shock. Ride it off of a curb or ramp, noting the amount of bounce and give.

    • 3

      Dismount. Adjust the rebound control knob on the rear shock. Ride it off a curb again until the you experience only one bounce before your suspension stops moving.