Introduction
Thank you for choosing the DNM AOY-36RC Mountain Bike Air Rear Shock. This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, adjustment, operation, and maintenance of your new rear shock. Please read this manual thoroughly before use to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Figure 1: Overall view of the DNM AOY-36RC Air Rear Shock.
Safety Information
WARNING: Always read the entire user manual carefully before installing or operating the rear shock. Failure to follow instructions can lead to serious injury or product damage.
- Do not disassemble the shock absorber. It contains high-pressure air and oil.
- Always wear appropriate safety gear when working on your bicycle.
- Ensure all bolts are tightened to the manufacturer's recommended torque specifications.
- Consult a professional bicycle mechanic if you are unsure about any installation or adjustment procedures.
Figure 2: Safety label on the shock absorber emphasizing the importance of reading the manual.
Product Overview
The DNM AOY-36RC is a high-performance air rear shock designed for XC and Trail mountain biking. It features a 4-system damping mechanism with rebound adjustment and a lockout function, allowing riders to fine-tune their suspension for various terrains and riding styles.
Key Features:
- Damping: 4-system (16-segment rebound adjustment knob)
- Adjustments: Rebound, Lock out, Adjust High Pressure
- Damper Shaft: Dark hard-anodized AL-7075 Ø 10 mm shaft
- Shock Body: Dark hard-anodized AL-6061
- Spring Type: Air Spring
- Riding Style: XC / Trail
- Eye to Eye x Travel: 165 x 35 mm
- Weight: Approximately 300g (0.66 lbs)
Figure 3: The DNM AOY-36RC shock with visible rebound and lockout adjusters.
Setup
Proper setup is crucial for the performance and longevity of your rear shock. This involves correct installation and setting the sag and air pressure.
1. Installation:
- Ensure your bicycle frame is compatible with a 165x35mm eye-to-eye shock.
- Carefully remove your old rear shock, noting the orientation and any spacers.
- Install the DNM AOY-36RC shock into the frame mounts, ensuring proper alignment.
- Insert mounting hardware (not included) and tighten bolts to your bicycle manufacturer's recommended torque specifications.
2. Air Pressure Adjustment (Sag):
Sag is the amount the suspension compresses under the rider's weight. It's typically set to 25-30% of the shock's travel for trail riding.
- Attach a high-pressure shock pump to the main air chamber valve.
- Inflate the main air chamber to a starting pressure (refer to your bike manufacturer's recommendations or a general guide based on rider weight).
- Carefully sit on your bike in your normal riding position, allowing the suspension to settle.
- Measure the amount of shock travel used (sag).
- Adjust air pressure as needed: increase pressure to reduce sag, decrease pressure to increase sag.
- Repeat steps 3-5 until desired sag is achieved.
- Negative Air Chamber: The diagram indicates a negative air chamber. Adjust its pressure according to the main air chamber pressure, typically 50-75% of the main chamber pressure, to fine-tune small bump compliance.
Figure 4: Technical diagram illustrating the main air chamber, negative air chamber, rebound, and compression adjusters.
Operating Adjustments
The AOY-36RC shock offers several adjustments to customize your ride.
1. Rebound Adjustment:
The red knob controls the rebound damping, which regulates how fast the shock extends after compression. The AOY-36RC features a 16-segment adjustment.
- Turn the knob clockwise (towards '+') to increase damping, making the shock extend slower.
- Turn the knob counter-clockwise (towards '-') to decrease damping, making the shock extend faster.
- Start with a mid-setting and adjust based on riding conditions and personal preference. Too fast (under-damped) can feel bouncy; too slow (over-damped) can cause the shock to pack up on successive bumps.
Figure 5: The red knob for rebound adjustment.
2. Lockout Function:
The blue lever activates the lockout, effectively stiffening the shock for climbing or smooth terrain.
- Move the blue lever to the 'L' (Lock) position to engage the lockout.
- Move the blue lever to the 'U' (Unlock) position to disengage the lockout and allow full suspension travel.
- Do not ride with the lockout engaged on rough terrain, as this can damage the shock.
Figure 6: The blue lever for engaging and disengaging the lockout function.
3. High Pressure Adjustment:
This adjustment refers to the main air chamber pressure, which controls the spring rate and sag. Refer to the "Air Pressure Adjustment (Sag)" section under Setup for detailed instructions.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your DNM AOY-36RC rear shock.
- Cleaning: After each ride, wipe down the shock body and shaft with a clean, damp cloth. Avoid using high-pressure washers directly on the seals.
- Air Pressure Check: Check the air pressure in both the main and negative air chambers before every ride using a high-pressure shock pump. Adjust as necessary.
- Seal Inspection: Periodically inspect the seals for any signs of wear, cracking, or oil leakage. Replace worn seals promptly.
- Mounting Bolt Torque: Regularly check the torque of the mounting bolts to ensure they are tightened to the bicycle manufacturer's specifications.
- Service Intervals: For internal maintenance (e.g., oil changes, seal replacement), consult a professional bicycle mechanic or refer to DNM's official service guidelines.
Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your rear shock.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Loss of air pressure | Leaky valve core, damaged seals, loose air cap | Check valve core for tightness, inspect seals for damage, ensure air cap is secure. If problem persists, professional service may be required. |
| Shock feels too soft or bottoms out easily | Insufficient air pressure, incorrect sag setting | Increase air pressure in the main chamber and re-check sag. |
| Shock feels too stiff or doesn't use full travel | Too much air pressure, lockout engaged | Decrease air pressure in the main chamber and re-check sag. Ensure lockout lever is in the 'Unlock' position. |
| Shock is bouncy (too fast rebound) | Rebound damping set too light | Increase rebound damping by turning the red knob clockwise. |
| Shock packs up (too slow rebound) | Rebound damping set too heavy | Decrease rebound damping by turning the red knob counter-clockwise. |
If you experience issues not listed here or cannot resolve a problem, please contact DNM customer support or a certified bicycle mechanic.
Specifications
Detailed specifications for the DNM AOY-36RC Air Rear Shock.
- Model: AOY-36RC
- Weight: 300g (0.66 lbs)
- Eye to Eye x Travel: 165 x 35 mm (6.50 x 1.38 inch)
- Eyelet Diameter: 8mm
- Eyelet Width: 24mm
- Damping: 4-system (16-segment rebound adjustment)
- Adjustments: Rebound, Lock out, Adjust High Pressure (Air Spring)
- Damper Shaft Material: Dark hard-anodized AL-7075 Ø 10 mm
- Shock Body Material: Dark hard-anodized AL-6061
- Spring Type: Air Spring
- Riding Style: XC / Trail
- Color: Black x Gold
- UPC: 607816956547
- ASIN: B095CD6BJ7
- Origin: Made in Taiwan
Warranty and Support
For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact the retailer where you purchased the DNM AOY-36RC rear shock. You can also visit the official DNM website for support information.
Manufacturer Website: www.dnmshock.com
